Deep Thinking with Dr. Steven Stolz
Self-Improvement
About
Where Academic Rigor Meets Real Life Deep Thinking with Dr. Steven Stolz transforms complex academic research into practical wisdom for everyday challenges. Join education philosopher and University of Adelaide Senior Lecturer Dr. Steven Stolz as he explores topics from burnout and loneliness to sleep science and mindfulness. This evidence-based podcast bridges the gap between scholarly insights and real-world application, helping ambitious professionals navigate life's complexities with both intellectual depth and practical clarity. Through thoughtful solo deep dives and expert conversations, Dr. Stolz breaks down sophisticated concepts without oversimplification. Each bi-weekly episode delivers research-backed strategies for personal development, mental wellbeing, and...
Episodes
- Prof. David Labaree: Why Schools Were Never Meant to Change: The Hidden Logic of Education | EPS 016
In this episode, Prof. David Labaree discusses the inherent tensions within American education, the replacement of learning with credentials, and the consistent failure of reforms. He also explores the concept of education as a public good…
- Fred Stolz: Master Craftsman: Leadership, Legacy & the Art of Teaching Well | EPS 15
Fred W. Stolz, an educator with 54 years of experience, discusses his career, including training teachers in Papua New Guinea and leading Grace Lutheran College in Australia. He shares insights on leadership, passion, hiring, and Christian…
- The Science of Laughter: How Comedy Triggers Brain Chemistry for Better Health & Relationships | EPS 14
This episode discusses the science of laughter, exploring its effects on brain chemistry, health, and relationships. It also warns about the potential psychological harm of certain types of humor, particularly for children and in workplace…
- The Original Biohack: A Love Letter to Walking and Human Transformation EPS 013
This episode discusses the profound impact of walking on human transformation, covering creativity, neurological benefits, cultural practices like forest bathing, and its philosophical importance for a flourishing life.
- Art as Creative Expression: Drawing the Human Spirit with Godwin Bradbeer
Godwin Bradbeer, a prominent Australian artist born in 1950, is known for his monumental, drawing-based figurative works. His art, often created with Chinagraph and pastel, seeks to portray the 'miracle of existence' and is held in major A…
- Overcoming Perfectionism: Evidence-Based Strategies with Prof. Tracey Wade
Professor Tracey Wade shares her expertise on perfectionism, differentiating it from healthy striving and explaining its connection to mental health conditions like eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. The episode details evidence-ba…
- PTSD Beyond the Battlefield: Trauma Recovery Insights with Prof. Sandy McFarlane
Professor Sandy McFarlane discusses the evolution of PTSD understanding, its symptoms, and the neuroscience of trauma. The episode covers various treatment approaches including CBT, EMDR, and neurofeedback, as well as recovery, prevention,…
- Why Your Stress Is Killing You (And How to Fight Back) | EPS 008
This episode explores the science behind stress, differentiating between beneficial and detrimental stress, and examining its evolutionary roots. It discusses Robert Sapolsky's research, the impact of perceived control, and strategies for…
- Stop Counting Calories: What Nutrition Science Really Says About Weight Loss with Dr. Ahmad Saedisomeolia | EPS 007
This episode discusses evidence-based weight loss strategies, challenging the effectiveness of calorie counting and BMI. Dr. Ahmad Saedisomeolia explores the impact of genetics, diet trends, food psychology, and lifestyle factors on weight…
- Burnout Breakthrough: Expert Insights from Black Dog Institute Founder Prof. Gordon Parker | Episode 006
Professor Gordon Parker discusses burnout, distinguishing it from depression, and exploring its links to personality and perfectionism. The episode covers the physiology, diagnosis using the Sydney Burnout Measure, and strategies for treat…
- The Perfectionism Trap: Breaking Free from Impossible Standards
This episode of Deep Thinking with Dr. Steven Stolz discusses the perfectionism paradox, where striving for flawlessness leads to diminishing returns and creative paralysis. It examines case studies, the psychological mechanisms, and offer…
- The Loneliness Epidemic: Connected Yet Alone
This episode of Deep Thinking with Dr. Steven Stolz examines the science behind the loneliness epidemic, discussing its links to modern work culture, technology, and its impact on physical and mental health. Dr. Stolz presents a personal f…
- The Focused Mind: Mastering Attention in a Distracted World
This episode discusses the modern attention crisis, exploring concepts like cognitive bandwidth, attention networks, and the differences between ADHD and poor focus. It covers digital attention traps, social media psychology, and offers ev…
- Deep Sleep Secrets with Dr. Mark Kohler: How Rest Transforms Your Brain
This episode discusses sleep science and its impact on brain health, covering sleep architecture, common sleep disorders including insomnia and sleep apnea, and the science behind nightmares and sleepwalking. It also touches on chronobiolo…
- Burnout: When Your Mind Says No!
This episode examines burnout, defining its core dimensions (exhaustion, cynicism, reduced efficacy) and exploring its causes rooted in workplace dynamics and perfectionism. Dr. Stolz presents evidence-based strategies for overcoming burno…