98: How Extreme Wealth Changes Your Brain

In this episode of Money Feels, we explore what extreme wealth does to the human brain — and why money doesn’t just change what people can buy… it can change how people see themselves, others, and the world around them.We unpack the psychology behind wealth, power, empathy, entitlement, and social disconnection, and discuss why the ultra-wealthy often begin to operate in completely different emotional and social realities than everyone else. We also explore how wealth can distort risk perception, reduce sensitivity to others’ suffering, and create environments where people slowly lose touch with everyday life.This conversation goes far beyond “rich people are out of touch.” It’s about how money impacts the nervous system, identity, relationships, and even morality — and why capitalism often rewards traits like detachment, dominance, and self-interest.In today’s episode, we discuss: How extreme wealth can psychologically distance people from others  The relationship between wealth, empathy, and entitlement  Why money changes risk-taking behaviour and decision-making  The “bubble effect” of wealth — and how rich people can slowly lose touch with everyday reality  Why some wealthy people genuinely believe they earned everything entirely on their own  The connection between power, status, and reduced emotional attunement  How capitalism rewards individualism, competition, and self-interest  Why wealth often creates insulation from consequences, discomfort, and vulnerability  The psychological difference between financial security and extreme accumulation  Why people with more money are not necessarily happier, calmer, or more connected  How shame, superiority, and fear can all coexist within wealth  Why many people simultaneously resent, idolize, and aspire toward extreme wealth Referenced in this episode:What Does Extreme Wealth Do to the Brain? (New York Magazine): https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/what-does-extreme-wealth-do-to-the-brain.htmlSpeaking of Psychology: The psychology of wealth, empathy, and entitlement, with Paul Piff, PhD: https://www.apa.org/news/podcasts/speaking-of-psychology/wealth-empathyThanks for listening to another episode! If you want bonus episodes and more, you can join our Patreon! Until then, follow us on Instagram @mixedupmoney, @bridgiecasey and @moneyfeelspodcast, and we’ll see you next time!