Rob Patterson, Ph.D. David Colarossi, Ph.D.

Shrink Space

Science EN ↓ 72 episodes

Join Dr. Rob Patterson and Dr. David Colarossi, two friends and psychologists, as they explore the intricacies of the human mind with humor, heart, and a side of friendly banter. In each episode, they debate key psychological concepts, shedding light on the fascinating principles that shape our everyday lives. From unraveling the mysteries of human behavior to diving into the latest research—or just having a good laugh along the way—Shrink Space is your go-to podcast for a lively mix of insights, spirited debates, and plenty of laughs that will make you think twice about what makes us tick.

Author

Rob Patterson, Ph.D. David Colarossi, Ph.D.

Category

Science

Podcast website

podcasters.spotify.com

Latest episode

Jun 23, 2026

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Episodes

WHY DO WE NEED AWARD SHOWS? | Psychologists React to the Grammys Ep. 22 11.02.2025

Are Awards Really Important? A Deep Dive with Rob and DaveIn this episode, Rob and Dave discuss the significance of awards, specifically focusing on entertainment awards like the Grammys and Oscars. They share personal experiences and perspectives on why people care about awards, whether they are still relevant, and the psychological impact of recognition and status. They also debate intrinsic ver...

VOICE MEMO Analysis: Blake Lively vs Justin Baldoni | Psychologists React Ep. 21 04.02.2025

In this episode, Dave and Rob dive headfirst into the Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni drama. They react to the voice memo Justin left Blake at 2 AM and explore the nuances behind their conflict. 00:00 Introduction and Initial Disappointment 00:53 Switching Topics: Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni 02:56 Deep Dive: The Movie and Promotional Issues 05:22 Allegations and Controversies 08:40 Voice Memo...

Why do you like TAYLOR SWIFT? Psychologists explain PARASOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS | Ep. 20 28.01.2025

In this episode, Dave and Rob catch up on their recent adventures and dive deep into the topic of parasocial relationships. They discuss the nuances of these one-sided relationships, using examples like Taylor Swift, Kevin Hart, and even sports teams to illustrate their points. They explore the types, benefits, and potential downsides of parasocial interactions, making connections to self-help gur...

MASS FORMATION (Not Psychosis) Psychologists discuss reactions to LA Fires & Luigi Mangione | Ep. 19 21.01.2025

In this episode, hosts Rob and Dave delve into the concept of mass formation and group think, discussing how society reacts to significant stressors such as the fires in California. They explore how people construct narratives and find scapegoats to make sense of chaotic events, sometimes leading to misguided and harmful behaviors. The discussion also touches on the implications of social media, c...

WHY DON'T PEOPLE CHANGE? | Psychologists share STRATEGIES for behavior change | Shrink Space Ep. 18 14.01.2025

In this episode, Dave and Rob discuss their holiday experiences, share hilarious stories about their kids, and dive into the topic of personal change. They explore how behaviors, habits, and environments influence our ability to change, especially in the context of the new year. Rob shares insights from his dissertation on organizational change resistance, and both hosts set their own New Year's r...

TIPS & TRICKS to Navigate the Holidays | PSYCHOLOGISTS share their strategies | Shrink Space Ep. 17 24.12.2024

In this episode, Rob and Dave share their personal holiday experiences, discussing common family dynamics and challenges during the festive season. They dive into various personality types that often surface at holiday gatherings, such as the 'drunk uncle,' the passive-aggressive parent, and the family member who insists on confronting issues head-on. The conversation alsocovers strategies for dea...

LILY PHILLIPS | PSYCHOLOGISTS REACT | Why she did it. Why the men did it. Shrink Space Ep.16 17.12.2024

Psychologists David and Rob delve into a recent controversial documentary about Lily Phillips, a successful OnlyFans star. The discussion covers the psychological aspects of her extreme behaviors, the reactions of society, and the differing perceptions based on gender. They also explore the social and moral implications of such events and the role of social media in shaping public opinion. Tune in...

PSYCHOLOGISTS EXPLAIN | Why Families Create Stress over the Holidays | Shrink Space Ep. 15 10.12.2024

In this episode, Rob and Dave discuss the various psychological and situational stressors that arise during the holiday season. They explore the pressures of family expectations, financial strain, nostalgia, and the challenges of managing relationships. The conversation also includes personal anecdotes and tips on how to handle the stress that comes with holiday gatherings. Tune in for part two of...

Psychologists' guide to Surviving your Family over the Holidays | Shrink Space Ep. 14 04.12.2024

Psychologists Rob and Dave explain best practices/strategies that can be used to survive your family over the holiday. If you want to see more Shrink Space, make sure to like this video, and subscribe to the channel!

UNGRATFUL - Psychologists Question the Value of being Thankful | Shrink Space Ep. 13 26.11.2024

Join Rob and Dave as they dive into the theme of gratitude just in time for Thanksgiving. Hear about their personal Thanksgiving traditions, thoughts on gratitude practices like journals, and the psychological benefits and downsides of focusing on the positive. The episode is filled with humor, personal anecdotes, and meaningful reflections on what they're thankful for this year. If you want to se...

Trump Won - Why are you Surprised? | Shrink Space Ep. 12 19.11.2024

In this episode, Psychologists David and Rob use the presidential election to delve into the psychological concept of the False Consensus Effect. They discuss how it impacts political perspectives in the United States, and explore cultural influences, social media's role in polarization, and the effects of individualistic versus collectivist societies. If you want to see more Shrink Space, make su...

Shrink Space Ep. 11 | Competition - Blessing or Curse 12.11.2024

Some of us are competitive. Like, we flip the Monopoly board because we just had to pay taxes on boardwalk and just went to jail, again, kind of competitive. Some of us are not competitive at all. Some people really don't care if they win or lose. Today, Rob and Dave dive into the concept of competition and if being competitive is good or bad, why we love to compete, why we don't love to compete,...

Shrink Space Ep. 10 | Voting Blind - Psychologists discuss voter bias 05.11.2024

Join Rob and David on Shrink Space as they dive into the Dunning-Kruger Effect, exploring how overconfidence and lack of knowledge play out in politics and everyday life. The conversation unfolds around election season in the U.S., highlighting the importance of humility and questioning in understanding public policies. Don't miss this insightful and engaging discussion!

Shrink Space Ep. 9 | The Psychology behind Cults 29.10.2024

What makes a good cult leader? Why would anyone join a cult? In today's episode, Rob and Dave take a deep dive into the underlying psychological mechanisms that create cults. If you'd like to see more Shrink Space content, be sure to like this video and subscribe to this channel

Shrink Space Ep. 8 | The Power of Self Righteousness 22.10.2024

You know that feeling - when you are 'so right' about something? In this episode Rob and David discuss benefits and pitfalls of feeling like you have the moral and intellectual high ground. If you'd like to see more Shrink Space content, be sure to like this video and subscribe to this channel

Shrink Space Ep. 7 | What is more important - Impact or Intent? 15.10.2024

Today on the show, Dave and Rob, discuss the popular axiom that in social exchanges Impact is more important than Intent.

Shrink Space Ep. 6 | Are some conspiracy theories real? 08.10.2024

Today on the show, Dave and Rob, dive into conspiracy theories. You know, tin foil hats, lizard people, the whole 9 yards. Except not every conspiracy theory has turned out to be crazy. And not every conspiracy theorist is crazy either. Today we go deep down the rabbit hole to show you. If you'd like to see more Shrink Space content, be sure to like this video and subscribe to this channel

Shrink Space Ep. 5 | Are you the A-hole? 01.10.2024

Are you an A-hole? What makes someone an A-hole? And at what point do they cross the line from a pretentious douche bag/ narcissist to an asshole? Is it something that people choose? Or is it something that is an innate part of the psyche? This week Dave and Rob dive in to the weeds on this one, and they go deep into the nuances around "assholes" and whether or not you may be one. For more Shrink...

Shrink Space Ep. 4 | Two Psychologists React to DIDDY - Is being a psychopath adaptive? 24.09.2024

Rob and Dave share Discuss Diddy and the implications of being diagnosed with Anti Social Personality Disorder For more Shrink Space content, be sure to subscribe to the channel and leave a review! Reach out with questions/Feedback: ShrinkSpaceShow@gmail.com Subscribe on YouTube @ShrinkSpace Follow us on Social Media Facebook @ShrinkSpaceShow Instagram @ShrinkSpaceShow TikTok @ShrinkSpaceShow

Shrink Space Ep. 3 | Two Psychologists React to the DEBATE - Naïve Realism 15.09.2024

Rob and Dave share their reactions to the Presidential Debate, and discuss the psychological concept of Naïve Realism. For more Shrink Space content, be sure to subscribe to the channel and leave a review! Reach out with questions/Feedback: ShrinkSpaceShow@gmail.com Subscribe on YouTube  @ShrinkSpace  Follow us on Social Media Facebook @ShrinkSpaceShow Instagram @ShrinkSpaceShow TikTok @ShrinkSpac...

Shrink Space Ep. 2 | Are soul mates real? 10.09.2024

On this weeks episode of Shrink Space, Rob and Dave dive into an age old debate: are soul mates real? We would all like to believe so. We would all like to believe in our one true love. But is it that simple? Could we possibly be compatible with more than one person? What are the factors that play into this? What would happen if our current "soul mate" passed on? Would we move on? All of...

Shrink Space Ep. 1 | Let's talk about power, and why people won't give it up 05.09.2024

Today, Rob and Dave talk about power, and why some people just can't let go. From athletes who refuse to retire, to politicians who refuse to step down, to your grandma who needs to turn in those car keys, we all see examples of power in our lives and people who don't want to give it up. Rob and Dave take a deep dive to cover all of this and more. If you want to see more of Shrink Space, b...

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