Mind Tricks Radio

Episode 73: Learned Helplessness, Optimism, and Escaping the Doom Spiral, with Dr. Aaron Kaplan and guest co-host Dr. Tyler Ralston

In this lively episode, Dr. Aaron Kaplan teams up with psychologist and friend Dr. Tyler Ralston to unpack one of psychology’s most curious and relatable phenomena: learned helplessness—why we sometimes just give up even when the door’s wide open. From Seligman’s shocking (literally) dog experiments to how pessimism shows up in everyday life—relationships, work, personal setbacks—they explore how helplessness gets wired into us…and more importantly, how we can rewire it. Along the way, they riff on learned optimism, cognitive therapy, and the art of getting unstuck. Equal parts insight and banter, this episode might just nudge you toward a more hopeful outlook—no toxic positivity required.

Episode 72: Obedience to Authority and the Banality of Evil, an Interview with Dr. Stanley Milgram

In this thought-provoking episode of Mind Tricks Radio, we conduct a simulated conversation with legendary social psychologist Dr. Stanley Milgram, brought to life through AI. Best known for his groundbreaking—and deeply controversial—obedience experiments at Yale University in the early 1960s, Milgram explored the unsettling ease with which ordinary people comply with authority, even when it leads to harming others. Drawing from his real writings, lectures, and legacy, this imagined interview delves into the origins of his work, the ethical firestorm it ignited, and the disturbing psychological mechanisms that enable systemic cruelty. We also explore the modern-day implications of Milgram’s findings—how obedience plays out in today’s world of social media, algorithmic control, corporate hierarchies, and mass surveillance. With sharp insight and sobering relevance, this episode invites listeners to reflect on the conditions that give rise to blind compliance—and the courage it takes to say "no."

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Episode 71: Interview with Rollo May -- On Existential Anxiety, Iosalation, Freedom, and Authenticity

In this special episode of Mind Tricks Radio, we sit down with one of the most influential voices in existential psychology—Dr. Rollo May. Well… an AI-generated version of him!

Using advanced AI tools, we bring to life a fictional conversation with Dr. May, whose work helped shape modern psychology’s understanding of anxiety, freedom, and the human struggle for authenticity. Known for powerful works like Love and Will, The Courage to Create, and Man’s Search for Himself, Rollo May offered a deeply philosophical and humanistic perspective on what it means to live—and to live meaningfully.

In this speculative dialogue, we explore May’s core ideas, including existential anxiety, the fear of freedom, and the challenge of living authentically in a world that often pulls us away from ourselves. He reflects on his personal battle with illness, his philosophical influences from Kierkegaard to Nietzsche, and the importance of embracing responsibility in the face of uncertainty.

Whether you’re a therapist, student, or simply someone reflecting on life’s big questions, this episode offers a grounded, wise, and deeply compassionate look at the human condition.

This conversation is part of our ongoing series of AI-generated interviews with pioneering figures in psychology. As always, what you’ll hear is a fictional recreation based on Dr. May’s published work, lectures, and available biographical material. The voices you hear—including that of Dr. May and my own—are AI-generated voice clones created for educational and historical exploration.

So sit back, reflect, and join us for an illuminating journey into the world of Rollo May—an enduring voice for those seeking depth, meaning, and the courage to be.

Thanks for tuning in!

Episode 70: Interview with Dr. Viktor Frankl -- On Logotherapy and Man's Search for Meaning

In this special episode of Mind Tricks Radio, we sit down with one of the most profound voices in the history of psychology—Dr. Viktor Frankl. Well… an AI-generated version of him!

Using cutting-edge technology, we recreate a fictional conversation with the legendary psychiatrist, Holocaust survivor, and founder of Logotherapy, exploring his timeless insights on meaning, suffering, and the human will to endure.

Dr. Frankl’s revolutionary ideas emerged from unimaginable darkness—his experience in Nazi concentration camps during World War II—and became a beacon of hope for millions through his seminal work Man’s Search for Meaning. In this speculative interview, we dive into his belief that the primary drive in human beings is not pleasure or power, but the search for purpose.

Whether you're a psychologist, student, or someone navigating your own questions about life and meaning, this episode offers a powerful and deeply human exploration of resilience, responsibility, and what it truly means to live a meaningful life—even in the face of suffering.

This is part of my continuing series of AI-generated conversations with influential figures in psychology. Of course, these interviews are fictional recreations based on historical writings, lectures, and public domain materials. The voices you hear—including that of Dr. Frankl and myself—are generated using AI voice-cloning models to bring history to life in a new way.

So tune in and join us for a one-of-a-kind exploration into the mind of Viktor Frankl—an enduring voice of courage, clarity, and compassion.

Thanks for tuning in!

Episode 69: Dream Analysis -- How to Understand the Meanings of Your Dreams, with Dr. Aaron Kaplan

In this solo episode of Mind Tricks Radio, I take you on a fascinating journey into the world of dream analysis—exploring why our dreams can be gateways to understanding deeper parts of ourselves. Drawing from classic theories by Freud and Jung, as well as my own experience as a therapist, I share my personalized approach to interpreting dreams inspired by Gestalt therapy pioneer Fritz Perls. You'll discover how each element of your dream—from people and animals to bizarre symbols—represents different aspects of your inner life. Through an imaginary dream scenario, we'll see how giving these dream elements their own voices can unlock surprising insights and emotional clarity. If you’ve ever wondered what your dreams are trying to tell you, tune in—and find out how to start your own conversation with your unconscious mind.

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Episode 68: Distortion of the Day! Gaslighting, with Dr. Aaron Kaplan

In today's Distortion of the Day, I explore the concept of Gaslighting,  a psychological tactic used to manipulate someone into questioning their reality, perceptions, and memories. Learn how to identify genuine gaslighting, recognize its harmful psychological impacts, and understand why accurately using the term matters in both relationships and broader conversations.

Distortions of the Day! are brief episodes running under 10 minutes where I introduce psychological concepts in a fun, practical, useful way.

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Episode 67: Interview with Dr. Albert Ellis -- On Musterbation, Can't-Stand-It-Itis, and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)

In this unique episode of Mind Tricks Radio, I conduct a thought-provoking AI-generated interview with the legendary Dr. Albert Ellis, the founder of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). Using artificial intelligence to recreate Dr. Ellis’s voice and insights, this conversation delves into the principles of REBT, the power of rational thinking, and the importance of challenging irrational beliefs. Dr. Ellis shares stories of his groundbreaking park therapy sessions, the evolution of cognitive-behavioral therapy, and his perspective on psychology’s biggest debates—all with his signature wit and directness. It's an engaging exploration of REBT’s lasting impact and a glimpse into the mind of one of psychology’s most influential figures.

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Episode 66: Interview with Dr. Carl Rogers -- Empathy, Congruence, and Unconditional Positive Regard

In this special episode of Mind Tricks Radio, we engage in a thought-provoking conversation with the legendary Carl Rogers—well, an AI-generated version of him! Using cutting-edge technology, we recreate a fictional interview with one of psychology’s most influential figures, exploring his revolutionary ideas on person-centered therapy, empathy, and self-actualization. Dr. Rogers' legacy reshaped not only psychotherapy but also education, leadership, and conflict resolution, emphasizing deep listening, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard. Whether you're a psychologist, student, or simply fascinated by the human mind, this episode offers a compelling look at how Rogers' insights continue to shape our understanding of personal growth and meaningful change. Tune in and experience a one-of-a-kind exploration into the mind of a true pioneer.

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Episode 65: Hindsight Bias -- How We Fool Ourselves After the Fact, with Dr. Aaron Kaplan and guest co-host Dr. Tyler Ralston

Today, I had a lively conversation with my friend, colleague, and guest co-host Dr. Tyler Ralston the cognitive distortion known as Hindsight Bias. We explored why things seem so obvious in retrospect and how our brains trick us into believing we ‘knew it all along.’ From history to everyday decisions, we unpack how hindsight bias shapes our thinking—and how to spot it before it leads us astray!

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Episode 64: Interview with B.F. Skinner -- On Reinforcement, Punishment, Token Economies and Principles of Radical Behaviorism

Today I had the pleasure of interviewing one of the great psychologists and thinkers of the 20th century -- Dr. B. F. Skinner, the father of radical behaviorism. Dr. Skinner discusses his groundbreaking work on operant conditioning, reinforcement, and how behavioral principles shape everything from education to therapy to society itself. We explore his controversial views on free will, his utopian vision in Walden Two, and the lasting impact of his theories. Is our behavior truly our own, or is it just the product of environmental forces? 

Wait... What's that? Yes Skinner passed away in 1990!

This interview with Dr. Skinner marks the second episode in my new project -- interviews with influential thinkers and clinicians who have passed away but remain prominent figures in the development of the field. I utilize artificial intelligence to clone and recreate the voices of these figures, and to create meaningful dialogue in an interview format consistent with the Mind Tricks Radio format. With the use of AI, we have an opportunity to continue benefiting in new and unique ways from the important work conducted by Dr. Skinner and his contribution to the field.

Please take a listen and let me know what you think. The technology is not perfect, but I will be working to refine the process over time. Please let me know if you have any requests or suggestions for future interviews. Thanks for tuning in!