PsyberSpace: Understand Your World

Leslie Poston
  • 5.0 (3)
  • SOCIAL SCIENCES
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

If you've ever wondered what makes "reply guys" tick, why we fall for emotionally manipulative language in politics, why meetings suck, or how music can reshape your brain, we have the answers! Tune in to PsyberSpace™ every Monday morning and understand your world a little better each week. PsyberSpace explores the evolving landscape where psychology, media, culture, and digital technology converge. Each episode unpacks the impact of tech on our minds, our culture, our work, and our society. We explore pressing topics like the ethics of virtual spaces, misinformation and disinformation, media psychology and marketing, the psychology of business in the age of AI, the influence of social media on mental health, and the implications of digital trends for leaders and organizations. Join us as we provide insights for harnessing tech for positive change in personal lives and within the workplace.

  1. OCT 12

    Why Your Surgeon Wears Special Socks: The Psychology of Talismans and Lucky Charms

    The Power of Talismans: Mind Over Matter In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston explores the fascinating world of talismans, lucky charms, and rituals. While these objects may seem irrational at first glance, psychological and anthropological insights reveal they significantly alter how our brains handle risk, uncertainty, and stress. From ancient warriors to modern surgeons and athletes, humans have always used symbolic objects to manage anxiety and enhance performance. This episode dives into the neuroscience of belief, the anthropology of ritual, and the line between helpful superstition and harmful compulsion. Discover how these practices, whether physical or digital, help us face uncertainty and regulate our emotions, anchoring us in chaotic situations. 00:00 Introduction to Talismans and Rituals00:53 The Psychology Behind Talismans01:27 Historical and Cultural Perspectives02:39 Modern Examples and Psychological Mechanisms05:24 Rituals in High-Stakes Professions07:30 Sports and Performance Enhancement10:30 The Placebo Effect and Physical Properties13:25 Cultural Significance and Adaptation16:20 When Rituals Become Unhealthy19:40 Digital Age Talismans22:14 Conclusion: The Power of Belief References Atkinson, P. (1981). The clinical experience: The construction and reconstruction of medical reality. Gower. Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The exercise of control. W. H. Freeman. Berle, D., Starcevic, V., Wootton, B., Arnáez, S., & Baggio, S. (2023). A network approach to understanding obsessions and compulsions. Journal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders, 36, 100786.  Damisch, L., Stoberock, B., & Mussweiler, T. (2010). Keep your fingers crossed! How superstition improves performance. Psychological Science, 21(7), 1014–1020.  Davoudi, M., Mohammadzadeh, A., Vafaei, A., Mirzaei, S. M., & Ghanbari Jolfaei, A. (2024). A cross-sectional study in two common OCD subtypes: Network structure of symptoms, personality, and obsessive beliefs. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 15, 1330901.  Einstein, D. A., & Menzies, R. G. (2004). The presence of magical thinking in obsessive–compulsive disorder. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 42, 539–549.  Einstein, D. A., & Menzies, R. G. (2004). Role of magical thinking in obsessive–compulsive symptoms in an undergraduate sample. Depression and Anxiety, 19, 174–179.  Edwards, C. D. (2023). Obsessive–compulsive disorder in sports—Beyond superstitions. Advances in Psychiatry and Behavioral Health. Advance online publication.  Fite, R. E., Adut, S. L., & Magee, J. C. (2020). Do you believe in magical thinking? Examining magical thinking as a mediator between obsessive–compulsive belief domains and symptoms. Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy, 48(4), 454–462.  Frazer, J. G. (1996). The golden bough: A study in magic and religion. Oxford University Press. (Original work published 1890) Langer, E. J. (1975). The illusion of control. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 32(2), 311–328. Rabinovitch, H. (2025). Playoff beards and unwashed uniforms: A scoping review on athletes’ superstitions and rituals. International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology. Advance online publication.  West, B., & Willner, P. (2011). Magical thinking in obsessive–compulsive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy, 39(4), 399–411.  Vyse, S. A. (2014). Believing in magic: The psychology of superstition (Updated ed.). Oxford University Press.    ★ Support this podcast ★

    26 min

  2. OCT 6

    The Psychology of Everyday Aesthetics: Why Your Surroundings Shape How You Feel

    The Psychology of Everyday Aesthetics: How Our Surroundings Shape Our Well-being In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston explores the psychological impact of everyday aesthetics on our emotions, focus, and overall well-being. From cozy cafes to well-lit offices, Leslie delves into the science behind how environmental cues like color, light, form, and texture affect our mental state and cognitive performance. The episode also discusses the importance of creating supportive environments, especially for those who are neurodivergent, chronically ill, or recovering from trauma. Learn how to leverage aesthetic principles to create spaces that promote safety, comfort, and productivity. This episode emphasizes that aesthetics aren't frivolous but functional, and they play a crucial role in our daily lives and mental health. 00:00 Introduction to PsyberSpace00:23 The Cafe Effect: How Environment Enhances Experience01:01 The Psychology of Everyday Aesthetics02:25 The Science Behind Aesthetic Responses04:12 Environmental Psychology and Neuroaesthetics08:33 The Impact of Light, Color, and Texture11:11 Aesthetics and Memory: Emotional Anchors17:31 Designing for Wellbeing: Practical Tips20:33 Conclusion: Aesthetics as Functional and Essential References Browning, W. D., Ryan, C. O., & Clancy, J. O. (2014). 14 patterns of biophilic design. Terrapin Bright Green. Cela-Conde, C. J., Marty, G., Maestú, F., Ortiz, T., Munar, E., Fernández, A., Roca, M., Rosselló, J., & Quesney, F. (2004). Activation of the prefrontal cortex in the human visual aesthetic perception. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 101(16), 6321–6325. Chatterjee, A., & Vartanian, O. (2014). Neuroaesthetics. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 18(7), 370–375. Cupchik, G. C. (2009). Viewing artworks: Contributions of cognitive control and perceptual facilitation to aesthetic experience. Brain and Cognition, 70(1), 84–91. Kaplan, R., & Kaplan, S. (1989). The experience of nature: A psychological perspective. Cambridge University Press. Kaplan, S. (1995). The restorative benefits of nature: Toward an integrative framework. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 15(3), 169–182. Kawabata, H., & Zeki, S. (2004). Neural correlates of beauty. Journal of Neurophysiology, 91(4), 1699–1705. Kellert, S. R., Heerwagen, J., & Mador, M. (Eds.). (2008). Biophilic design: The theory, science and practice of bringing buildings to life. John Wiley & Sons. Ohly, H., White, M. P., Wheeler, B. W., Bethel, A., Ukoumunne, O. C., Nikolaou, V., & Garside, R. (2016). Attention restoration theory: A systematic review of the attention restoration potential of exposure to natural environments. Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part B, 19(7), 305–343. Ulrich, R. S. (1984). View through a window may influence recovery from surgery. Science, 224(4647), 420–421. Ulrich, R. S. (1991). Stress recovery during exposure to natural and urban environments. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 11(3), 201–230. Zeki, S. (1999). Inner vision: An exploration of art and the brain. Oxford University Press. Zeki, S., Romaya, J. P., Benincasa, D. M. T., & Atiyah, M. F. (2014). The experience of mathematical beauty and its neural correlates. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 8, 68. Zeki, S., Chén, O. Y., & Romaya, J. P. (2020). Neuroaesthetics: The art, science, and brain triptych. In A. Chatterjee & E. Cardillo (Eds.), Brain, beauty & art: Essays bringing neuroaesthetics into focus (pp. 1–28). Oxford University Press. ★ Support this podcast ★

    21 min

  3. OCT 3 · BONUS

    The AI Transparency Trap: Why Honesty About AI Use Destroys Trust

    The Transparency Trap: How AI Disclosure Erodes Trust In this special episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston explores a new study revealing that people who disclose AI use in professional settings are trusted significantly less than those who keep it a secret. This phenomenon is linked to identity protective cognition and professional identity threats. The discussion delves into how legitimacy and social norms shape trust dynamics, the role of cognitive dissonance, and systemic issues that exacerbate the AI transparency crisis. Poston also offers potential strategies to address these challenges, emphasizing the need for a cultural shift in professional identity and transparent AI integration. 00:00 Introduction to Today's Unique Episode01:41 The Transparency Dilemma Study03:32 Understanding the Legitimacy Discount04:07 Identity Protective Cognition and AI06:29 The Role of Professional Identity09:32 Moral Licensing and Cognitive Dissonance19:35 Systemic Issues and Forced AI Adoption22:06 Strategies for Cultural and Institutional Change25:28 Conclusion and Broader Implications References Schilke, O., & Reimann, M. (2025). The transparency dilemma: How AI disclosure erodes trust. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 188, 104405.  Festinger, L. (1957). A theory of cognitive dissonance. Stanford University Press. Tajfel, H., & Turner, J. C. (1979). An integrative theory of intergroup conflict. In W. G. Austin & S. Worchel (Eds.), The social psychology of intergroup relations (pp. 33–47). Brooks/Cole. Lamont, M. (1992). Money, morals, and manners: The culture of the French and the American upper-middle class. University of Chicago Press.(see past episodes for more) ★ Support this podcast ★

    29 min

  4. SEP 29

    Frictionless and Forgettable: How Tech Undermines Friendship and Creativity

    The Cost of Convenience: How Technology is Redefining Connection and Creativity In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston digs into the impact of technological convenience on our emotional and cognitive lives. Inspired by a conversation with Jason Miller, Leslie explores how platforms like Facebook and generative AI tools are stripping away meaningful friction from our interactions, creativity, and mental tasks, leading to reduced emotional investment and cognitive development. The episode discusses concepts like emotional labor, effort justification, intermittent reinforcement, and the importance of cognitive friction for real connection and growth. Leslie also addresses the balance between accessibility and meaningful challenge, urging listeners to choose their frictions wisely and remain intentional about the technologies they adopt. 00:00 Introduction and Inspiration00:38 The Impact of Social Media on Friendships02:48 Emotional Labor and Effort Justification08:38 The Role of Friction in Creativity14:31 The Downside of Frictionless Technology18:52 Balancing Accessibility and Meaningful Engagement21:05 Conclusion: Embracing Productive Friction References Aaru, J. (2025) Artificial Intelligence and the Internal Processes of Creativity. The Journal of Creative Behavior. 59(2)Al-Zahrani, A.M. (2024) Balancing Act: Exploring the Interplay Between Human Judgement and Artificial Intelligence in Problem-Solving, Creativity, and Decision-Making. IgMin Research. 2(3): 145-158Alter, A. L., Oppenheimer, D. M., Epley, N., & Eyre, R. N. (2007). Overcoming intuition: Metacognitive difficulty activates analytic reasoning. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, 136(4), 569–576. Bjork, R. A. (1994). Memory and metamemory considerations in the training of human beings. In J. Metcalfe & A. P. Shimamura (Eds.), Metacognition: Knowing about knowing (pp. 185–205). MIT Press. Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The psychology of optimal experience. Harper & Row.Dunbar, R. I. M. (1998). The social brain hypothesis. Evolutionary Anthropology, 6(5), 178–190.Ellis, K., & Kent, M. (2011). Disability and new media. Routledge.Festinger, L. (1957). A theory of cognitive dissonance. Stanford University Press. Hochschild, A. R. (1983). The managed heart: Commercialization of human feeling. University of California Press. Hochschild, A. R. (1983). The managed heart: Commercialization of human feeling.Risko, E. F., & Gilbert, S. J. (2016). Cognitive offloading. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 20(9), 676–688.  Norman, D. A. (2007). The design of future things. Basic Books.Raichle, M. E., et al. (2001). A default mode of brain function. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 98(2), 676-682.Seligman, M. E. P. (1972). Learned helplessness. Annual Review of Medicine, 23(1), 407-412.Sweller, J. (1988). Cognitive load during problem solving: Effects on learning. Cognitive Science, 12(2), 257-285.Skinner, B. F. (1953). Science and human behavior.Article in New Yorker on AI and Culture: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2025/09/01/ai-is-coming-for-culture ★ Support this podcast ★

    24 min

  5. SEP 22

    Stuck in the In-Between: The Psychology of Liminal Spaces

    Exploring the Psychological Depths of Liminal Spaces In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston digs into the concept of liminal spaces — those transitional zones, both physical and psychological, where we feel suspended between the past and the future. The discussion explores various examples such as airports, traffic jams, dead malls, subways, hospitals, and even digital environments. These spaces challenge our sense of time, memory, and self, creating both potential for transformation and risks like anxiety and disorientation. By understanding and navigating these in-between moments, we can harness their power for creative breakthroughs and personal growth. 00:00 Introduction to Liminal Spaces01:55 The Concept of Liminality02:51 Modern Life and Liminality04:06 Airports: The Ultimate Liminal Space06:21 Dead Malls: Ghosts of Movement08:42 Traffic and Transit: Daily Liminal Encounters12:56 Hospitals and Hotels: Ambiguous Comfort15:02 Digital Liminality: The Eternal Scroll17:23 Psychological Implications of Liminal Spaces22:23 Navigating Liminal Spaces24:26 Conclusion: Embracing the In-Between References Arnett, J. J. (2004). Emerging adulthood: The winding road from the late teens through the twenties. Oxford University Press. Augé, M. (1995). Non-places: Introduction to an anthropology of supermodernity (J. Howe, Trans.). Verso. Bauman, Z. (2000). Liquid modernity. Polity Press. Boss, P. (2007). Ambiguous loss theory: Challenges for scholars and practitioners. Family Relations, 56(2), 105-111. Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1996). Creativity: Flow and the psychology of discovery and invention. Harper Perennial. Evans, G. W., Hygge, S., & Bullinger, M. (1995). Chronic noise and psychological stress. Psychological Science, 6(6), 333–338. Goffman, E. (1963). Behavior in public places: Notes on the social organization of gatherings. Free Press. Lin, Y. H., Lin, Y. C., Lee, Y. H., Lin, P. H., Lin, S. H., & Chang, L. R. (2019). Time distortion associated with smartphone addiction: Identifying predictors and consequences. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 115, 84–90. Raichle, M. E., MacLeod, A. M., Snyder, A. Z., Powers, W. J., Gusnard, D. A., & Shulman, G. L. (2001). A default mode of brain function. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 98(2), 676–682. Smallwood, J., & Schooler, J. W. (2006). The restless mind. Psychological Bulletin, 132(6), 946–958. Smith, S. M., & Vela, E. (2001). Environmental context-dependent memory: A review and meta-analysis. Psychonomic Bulletin & Review, 8(2), 203–220. Thomassen, B. (2009). The uses and meanings of liminality. International Political Anthropology, 2(1), 5–27. Tulving, E. (2002). Episodic memory: From mind to brain. Annual Review of Psychology, 53(1), 1–25. Turner, V. (1969). The ritual process: Structure and anti-structure. Aldine. Ulrich, R. S. (1984). View through a window may influence recovery from surgery. Science, 224(4647), 420–421. van Gennep, A. (1909). The rites of passage. University of Chicago Press. ★ Support this podcast ★

    25 min

  6. SEP 16

    Microjoys and Mini-Moments—The Psychology of Tiny Pleasures

    The Power of Micro Joys: Building Psychological Resilience through Tiny Pleasures In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston explores the concept of micro joys—small, spontaneous moments of delight that contribute significantly to our mental well-being. Contrary to the cultural emphasis on major achievements and peak experiences, micro joys provide a sustainable foundation for psychological resilience. Backed by research in positive psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science, the episode reveals how these tiny positive experiences can help manage stress, depression, and burnout. Leslie discusses how to identify and savor these moments, emphasizing that they are accessible to everyone, require no special circumstances, and can be especially beneficial during difficult times. 00:00 Introduction to Micro Joys01:47 The Science Behind Micro Joys03:48 Characteristics of Micro Joys05:55 Micro Joys vs. Other Positive Practices12:05 Micro Joys in Mental Health21:54 Practical Tips for Noticing Micro Joys25:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts ★ Support this podcast ★

    26 min

  7. SEP 12 · BONUS

    When Hate Speaks: The Psychology of Stochastic Terrorism

    PsyberSpace: Understanding the Psychology of Stochastic Terrorism In this special episode of PsyberSpace, hosted by Leslie Poston, the focus is on the psychology of stochastic terrorism, particularly in the wake of the shooting of political pundit Charlie Kirk. The episode explores how public figures use mass communication to incite violence indirectly through loaded language and dehumanizing rhetoric. It looks into the mechanisms behind this phenomenon, including moral disengagement and emotional manipulation. The episode also discusses the global impact of American stochastic rhetoric and offers strategies for resistance, such as cognitive inoculation and media literacy. Leslie emphasizes the importance of understanding and responding to this psychological manipulation to prevent further violence. 00:00 Introduction to Stochastic Terrorism00:29 The Case of Charlie Kirk01:53 Understanding Stochastic Terrorism06:24 Mechanisms of Dehumanization13:41 The Role of Media and Rhetoric17:44 Global Impact and Historical Context22:09 Psychological Aftermath of Violence28:21 Empathy and Moral Boundaries33:01 Recognizing and Resisting Stochastic Messaging38:04 Conclusion and Call to Action Research notes coming soon. ★ Support this podcast ★

    39 min

  8. SEP 7

    Sneaky Grief - The Losses That Linger, the Systems That Ignore Them

    Unseen Grief: Navigating Disenfranchised and Ambiguous Loss In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston explores the often overlooked and invalidated forms of grief that extend beyond traditional mourning. Discussing the concept of 'disenfranchised grief,' the episode delves into how economic systems and societal norms suppress acknowledgment of certain types of loss. From the unexpected death of a first love to ongoing ambiguous losses, Poston examines how these unacknowledged forms of grief affect our mental and physical health. She highlights the limitations of traditional grief models and emphasizes the need for more inclusive and validating support systems. The episode also tackles the political and structural issues surrounding grief, arguing that acknowledging and integrating our losses is crucial for emotional well-being. 00:00 Introduction to Sneaky Grief01:33 Understanding Disenfranchised Grief04:00 Personal Story: The Unexpected Call06:06 The Continuing Bonds Model08:35 Ambiguous Loss and Its Impact11:20 The Political Side of Grief15:27 The Physiology of Grief17:33 Prolonged Grief Disorder19:16 Collective and Marginalized Grief21:11 Conclusion: Validating All Forms of Grief References Albuquerque, S., Teixeira, A. M., & Rocha, J. C. (2021). COVID-19 and disenfranchised grief. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 12, 638874. Boss, P. (2006). Loss, trauma, and resilience: Therapeutic work with ambiguous loss. W. W. Norton. Cesur-Soysal, G., & Arı, E. (2024). How we disenfranchise grief for self and other: An empirical study. Omega: Journal of Death and Dying, 88(2), 620-637. Djelantik, A. A. A. M. J., Smid, G. E., Mroz, A., Kleber, R. J., & Boelen, P. A. (2020). The prevalence of prolonged grief disorder in bereaved individuals following unnatural losses: Systematic review and meta regression analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 265, 146-156. Doka, K. J. (1989). Disenfranchised grief: Recognizing hidden sorrow. Lexington Books. Hewson, H., et al. (2023). The impact of continuing bonds following bereavement: A systematic review. Death Studies, 47(7), 762-775. Hopf, S. M., Riegel, B., Waters, C., Tamres, L., Good, M., Penner, A., & Guo, W. (2020). Neuroendocrine mechanisms of grief and bereavement: A systematic review and implications for future interventions. Journal of Neuroendocrinology, 32(8), e12887. Klass, D., Silverman, P. R., & Nickman, S. L. (Eds.). (2014). Continuing bonds: New understandings of grief. Taylor & Francis. O'Connor, M. F. (2019). Grief: A brief history of research on how body, mind, and brain adapt. Biopsychosocial Science and Medicine. Phillip, L. (2024, July 8). Grief accrues faster than sick days: A reflection on pain, place, and productivity. The Philanthropist Journal. Retrieved from https://thephilanthropist.ca/2024/07/grief-accrues-faster-than-sick-days-a-reflection-on-pain-place-and-productivity/ Phillips, C. S., Trainum, K., & Thomas Hebdon, M. C. (2025). Hidden in plain sight: A scoping review of professional grief in healthcare and charting a path for change. Health Services Insights. Sage Journals. Pitimson, N. (2021). Work after death: An examination of the relationship between grief, emotional labour, and the lived experience of returning to work after a bereavement. Sociological Research Online, 26(3), 590-606 Prigerson, H. G., Boelen, P. A., Xu, J., Smith, K. V., & Maciejewski, P. K. (2021). Validation of the new DSM-5-TR criteria for prolonged grief disorder and the PG-13-Revised (PG-13-R) scale. World Psychiatry, 20(1), 96-106. Sandberg, S., & Grant, A. (2017). Option B: Facing adversity, building resilience, and finding joy. Knopf Stroebe, M., Schut, H., & Boerner, K. (2017). Cautioning health-care professionals: Bereaved persons are misguided through the stages of grief. Omega: Journal of Death and Dying, 74(4), 455-473. Wilson, D. M., Rodríguez-Prat, A., & Low, G. (2020). The potential impact of bereavement grief on workers, work, careers, and the workplace. Social Work in Health Care, 59(6), 335–350.    ★ Support this podcast ★

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If you've ever wondered what makes "reply guys" tick, why we fall for emotionally manipulative language in politics, why meetings suck, or how music can reshape your brain, we have the answers! Tune in to PsyberSpace™ every Monday morning and understand your world a little better each week. PsyberSpace explores the evolving landscape where psychology, media, culture, and digital technology converge. Each episode unpacks the impact of tech on our minds, our culture, our work, and our society. We explore pressing topics like the ethics of virtual spaces, misinformation and disinformation, media psychology and marketing, the psychology of business in the age of AI, the influence of social media on mental health, and the implications of digital trends for leaders and organizations. Join us as we provide insights for harnessing tech for positive change in personal lives and within the workplace.

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