30. Scientist reveals 10 brain hacks to reduce social anxiety

In this episode…

“Ocytocin motivates social interaction by reducing the appropriate stress response we have when we interact with someone who’s new”…

The words of scientist, Paul J Zak.

Paul shares in this interview what oxytocin is, how it works, and how to use it to reduce your social anxiety.

He shares 10 simple brain hacks to reduce social anxiety and also shares fascinating insights and studies that help you understand your anxiety better, and make quick progress.

Paul’s bio:

Dr Paul J Zak is known as the ‘King of Trust.'”He is a scientist, author, TV personality, and public speaker. He is the founding Director of the Center for Neuroeconomics Studies and he’s Professor of Economics, Psychology and Management. Dr. Zak also serves as Professor of Neurology and is a Senior Researcher at UCLA.

Dr. Zak is a recognized expert in oxytocin. His lab discovered in 2004 that oxytocin allows us to determine who to trust. His current research is showing that oxytocin is responsible for virtuous behaviors, working as the brain’s “moral molecule.” This knowledge is being used to understand the basis for civilization and modern economies, improve negotiations, and treat patients with neurologic and psychiatric disorders.

His 2011 TED talk on oxytocin and trust has gained over a million views. He’s appeared on CNN, the Dr. Phil show, Good Morning America, and more.

Quoting Paul:

“You give the gift of oxytocin release to somebody else. You do something nice for somebody, their brain releases oxytocin, then that motivates them to want to reciprocate towards you, and then you get that increase in oxytocin in your own brain.

It’s that reciprocal release of oxytocin that bonds us to other people.”

Paul’s favourite quote

“Not only should we not avoid people who are difficult, we should cherish them, because they give us the opportunity to practice compassion”

-Dalai Lama

Paul’s website:

Paul’s website is here

Other resources mentioned

See a Loving kindness Metta meditation here

See the 2008 publication on research of oxitocyn related to social anxiety here

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