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.