Where Academic Rigor Meets Real Life
Deep Thinking transforms complex academic research into practical wisdom for your everyday challenges. Join Dr. Steven Stolz as he explores topics that matter with both intellectual depth and actionable insights.
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About the Podcast
Deep Thinking with Dr. Steven Stolz bridges the gap between evidence-based research and real-world application. Each episode takes you on a journey through topics that matter—from burnout and sleep science to perfectionism and mindfulness—providing both the intellectual framework and practical strategies you can apply immediately. Here’s what to expect:
Solo Deep Dives - Dr. Stolz explores complex topics through a philosophical and evidence-based lens
Expert Conversations - Enlightening dialogues with specialists who bring unique perspectives
Practical Wisdom - Every episode concludes with actionable takeaways you can implement right away
Intellectual Respect - Complex ideas presented clearly without oversimplification
The Perfectionism Trap: Breaking Free from Impossible Standards
Are your high standards helping you excel or secretly sabotaging your success? In this eye-opening episode of Deep Thinking, Dr. Steven Stolz explores the critical distinction between healthy striving and self-destructive perfectionism. Through compelling case studies featuring The Beatles' legendary creative tensions, Nine Inch Nails' Trent Reznor's artistic struggles, and relatable stories like "Andy the Academic" and "Mick the Magician," you'll discover the surprising psychology behind perfectionist tendencies.
Drawing on groundbreaking research from leading experts including Dr. Brené Brown, Drs. Gordon Flett & Paul Hewitt, and Professor Tracey Wade, this episode unpacks perfectionism as a multidimensional concept that impacts creativity, relationships, and mental wellbeing. Whether perfectionism manifests as external validation-seeking or internalized self-criticism, you'll learn evidence-based strategies to break free from these patterns while maintaining excellence without the psychological costs.
Perfect for anyone struggling with impossibly high standards, creative blocks, or helping others with perfectionist tendencies, this episode provides actionable insights to transform your relationship with achievement and self-worth.