Doing Good Doesn't Mean Doing Everything with Shankar Vedantam

Mohini Venkatesh and Shankar Vedantam explore how the hidden brain shapes the way we think, respond to uncertainty and decide what actions are within our control. Recorded live at NatCon26, this episode of The State of Mental Wellbeing features Shankar Vedantam, founder of Hidden Brain Media, in conversation with host Mohini Venkatesh. Together, they explore the unconscious forces that influence our thoughts, choices and reactions; why uncertainty can feel overwhelming; and how focusing on what we can control can help turn knowledge, values and intention into meaningful action. Listeners will learn: How unconscious “hidden brain” processes shape attention, behavior and decision-making. Why focusing on what is within our control can help us navigate uncertainty and change. How small, values-driven actions can still matter when larger problems feel overwhelming. Shankar Vedantam is the founder of Hidden Brain Media and host of the acclaimed Hidden Brain podcast and radio show, which explores human behavior, psychology and the unseen forces that shape our lives. Follow for weekly conversations shaping mental health and substance use care.