Personality 101 — Your Curated PodCourse

A curated selection of podcasts to help you learn about the science of personality.

April English
Behavioral Design Hub
5 min readApr 17, 2024

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Imagine learning about valuable behavior change concepts in a fun and easy way from a mix of experts with exciting perspectives. Sounds too good to be true? Enter: Habit Weekly PodCourses.

We curate our favorite behavioral science podcasts into insightful playlists. The third part of our PodCourses focuses on the popular topic of personality.

Are personality tests legit? Where do we belong in the personality tribes? What are the superpowers of extroverts and introverts? How do we navigate different types of personalities at work? Learn the answers to these questions and so much more!

You can listen to the Full PodCourse on Spotify here, or you can browse the selection of podcast episodes below.

Time to dive in — Happy listening! 🎧

April English

Missed the first two parts of our PodCourse series? Check them out below.

Part 1: The Science of Personality

Personality Tests: Who Are You Really?

Skeptics argue that personality tests like Myers-Briggs lack credibility, raising questions about their legitimacy. To unravel the truth behind personality assessments, psychologists Dr. Alexander Swan, Dr. Emorie Beck, and Dr. Ted Schwaba offer their insights. Through their expertise, the episode explores what science can truly reveal about personality, shedding light on the reliability and limitations of these tests.

The Personality Myth

Many of us think that our position in life has a lot to do with our personality. Invisibilia examines the concept of personality as destiny in American society.

The Sorting Hat

Hidden Brain delves into the universal desire to find our place in a tribe or community, examining the thriving industry of personality tests, which promise quick insights into who we are and where we belong.

Personality with Sanjay Srivastava

A conversation with renowned personality expert, Dr. Sanjay Srivastava. This conversation promises an engaging listen for anyone fascinated by the science of personality — from the curious curly fry problem to the design and utility of corporate personality tests.

The Psychology of Personality

We round out Part 1 with an insightful David Pizarro, PhD and Tamler Sommers, PhD of the Very Bad Wizards Podcast. We can some final thoughts on questions like; What are the different dimensions of personality that distinguish one person from another? How many dimensions are there — do the Big Five capture all of them? Do we share some of these differences with other species?

Part 2: Understanding Your Own Personality

Adam Grant: Givers and Takers and the Resilient Mind

Are you a giver or a taker? Have you ever struggled to find work/life balance? How do you build resilience in yourself, your team, or your children? Each of these topics and many more are discussed with guest and organizational psychologist, Adam Grant.

Can You Change Your Personality?

Are you the same person you were a decade ago? How fixed is your personality? Learn all about it from No Stupid Questions hosts, Angela Duckworth and Mike Maughan.

Susan Cain: Leading the Quiet Revolution

For decades, society has favored traits like charisma, outspokenness, and self-promotion, leaving introverts feeling pressured to conform to extroverted behavior or retreat further into themselves. However, Susan Cain, argues that both approaches are misguided. As a self-proclaimed introvert and author of the bestselling book “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking,” Cain believes that introverts have unique contributions to offer when they embrace their authentic selves. Cain discusses how introverts can thrive in a noisy world by staying true to their nature. Whether you identify as an extrovert, introvert, or ambivert, this interview offers valuable insights for all.

The Introvert’s Guide to Extroversion

Dr. Laurie Santos explores research suggesting that introverts have the capacity to learn and cultivate enjoyment from being more outgoing, challenging the notion that they are destined to lead less socially fulfilling lives.

Part 3: Personalities and the Workplace

Can a personality test show if you’re right for a job? With Fred Oswald, PhD

Companies may use assessments such as personality tests as part of the hiring process or in career development programs. Fred Oswald, PhD, director of the Organization and Workforce Laboratory at Rice University, discusses why companies use these tests, what employers and workers can learn from them, and how new technologies, including artificial intelligence, are changing workplace assessments.

Understanding Humans in the Wild

Sam Harris engages in a conversation with Adam Grant, diving into the realm of social science within the workplace. Together, they explore various facets of effective team dynamics, the dynamics of power, personality types, and fundamental styles of interaction. They also touch upon essential skills such as learning to say “no,” fostering creativity, and building resilience. The discussion provides a rich exploration of the complexities of human behavior and organizational dynamics.

How To Handle A Narcissist (Including, Maybe…Yourself)

Joined by Keith Campbell, a seasoned researcher in the field of narcissism for over 30 years, Keith introduces his latest book, “The New Science of Narcissism.” Delving into the nuances between grandiose and vulnerable narcissism, offering insights into navigating relationships with narcissistic individuals. Whether you’re curious about understanding narcissism or seeking strategies for dealing with it, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable tips.

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April English
Behavioral Design Hub

Public health professional. Social media and communications lead for the popular newsletter www.HabitWeekly.com. All views are my own.