Beyond The Surface

PODCAST · science

Beyond The Surface

Welcome to Beyond The Surface 🎙️A space where we slow down, think deeper, and explore the parts of life we usually rush past. Philosophy, psychology, mental health, identity and all the things that shape us, quietly or loudly. I’m Mohammad, and I’m here to have the conversations I’ve always looked for but rarely found…I’ve always been drawn to depth; in people, in ideas, in the way we use language to show who we are. But expressing that depth hasn’t always been easy. I grew up moving between languages and cultures, and each one brings out a different version of me. Arabic, English, Turkish… sometimes they feel like superpowers, and other times they feel like weight I have to carry.But they’ve all shaped the way I think, the way I feel, and the way I try to make sense of the world.Like many of you, I’ve spent years trying to understand not just who I am, but how to be. How to speak up. How to stay curious. How to believe in something

  1. 29

    Why Young Men Are Falling Behind ?

    For Feedbacks A growing number of young men feel lost, isolated, and without direction. But why is this happening?In this episode, we explore the silent crisis of young men; examining the psychological, social, and cultural factors shaping their lives today. From loneliness and identity to purpose and responsibility, we look beyond the headlines to understand what’s really going on with young men.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think; feel free to reach out at ([email protected])Support the show

  2. 28

    Beyond The Inherited Definitions: Conformity

    For Feedbacks We inherit more than eye color and last names. We inherit definitions.Definitions of success. Of morality. Of masculinity and femininity. Of obedience. Of what is “normal.” Of what is “right.”But what if many of these definitions were never truly ours?In this episode of Beyond The Surface, we go beyond the inherited definitions that quietly shape our identities and decisions. Through some of the most famous psychological experiments in history, we explore how easily human perception, morality, and behavior can be influenced by group pressure, authority, and assigned roles.We’ll reflect on:Conformity and the power of the group — inspired by the experiments of Solomon AschObedience to authority — through the controversial work of Stanley MilgramThe psychology of roles and power — examined in the Stanford Prison Experiment led by Philip ZimbardoIf ordinary people can conform, obey, and transform under pressure… How much of what we call “our personality” is truly chosen?There's insightful breakdowns by Vsauce (Michael Stevens), whose videos beautifully unpack these psychological experiments and their implications.Recommended videos:Conformity (Asch Experiment) – https://youtu.be/fbyIYXEu-nQ?si=wnH9XrfMrbvIIwzQObedience to Authority (Milgram Experiment) – https://youtu.be/vuMt8b4UrcI?si=NCJvUtfhUtnIeOglStanford Prison Experiment – https://youtu.be/KND_bBDE8RQ?si=sAOWf9j9j-RyR2M_This episode is not about judging the past. It’s about questioning what we’ve quietly accepted...Because sometimes growth begins when we ask: Who defined this for me?Support the show

  3. 27

    Why do we dream ? | Episode 3

    For Feedbacks What happens to consciousness when we fall asleep? And why does the mind keep creating stories when the body is at rest?In this episode, we explore dreaming as one of the most mysterious expressions of consciousness. From vivid narratives to fragmented images, dreams reveal a version of the mind that feels both familiar and completely foreign..We talk about what dreams might tell us about awareness, identity, memory, and the unconscious; and whether dreaming is a different state of consciousness or simply consciousness without external limits ?Rather than searching for definitive answers, this episode invites curiosity. Because maybe dreams aren’t meant to be solved.Only experienced.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think; feel free to reach out at ([email protected])Support the show

  4. 26

    Do we have free will ? | Episode 2

    For Feedbacks In this second episode of our mind series, we explore one of the most debated questions in human thought: How much of our “free will” is actually ours?From the shaping force of our upbringing to the subtle expectations of society, we reflect on how environments sculpt our choices long before we’re aware of them. We discuss Robert Sapolsky’s provocative challenge to free will; drawing from his book Determined, and contrast it with Daniel Dennett’s more hopeful, compatibilist view...Together, these perspectives open a deeper conversation about agency, responsibility, and the invisible threads that guide our decisions. Rather than offering a final answer, this episode invites you to rethink what it truly means to choose 🙌If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think; feel free to reach out at ([email protected])Support the show

  5. 25

    Are we really conscious ? | Episode 1

    For Feedbacks In this first episode of our three-part series on consciousness, we open the door to one of the oldest and most mysterious questions humans have ever asked: What does it really mean to be aware?Together, we explore the layers of the conscious and unconscious mind, how our perceptions are shaped, and why understanding our inner world matters more than we think. This isn’t a lecture; it’s a gentle, reflective conversation, grounded in philosophy, psychology, and some neuroscience.Whether you’re here to question everything or simply to understand yourself a little better, this episode sets the foundation for a deeper journey. The next two episodes will take us further beneath the surface 🙌If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think; feel free to reach out at ([email protected])Support the show

  6. 24

    Why can't we read anymore ?

    For Feedbacks In this episode, we dive into a question almost everyone quietly asks themselves: why is reading becoming so hard? We explore it from every angle ; from the history of how humans first started reading, to how our brains evolved with storytelling, to the modern distractions that pull our attention in a hundred different directions...We talk about how technology reshaped our reading habits, how the paradox of choice leaves us overwhelmed before we even pick up a book, and why deep reading feels almost impossible in an age of endless notifications. We even look at the cultural shifts, the psychology behind attention, and how reading used to be a slow, communal act rather than a productivity goal. This episode isn’t a preachy READ MORE lecture; it’s a journey. A colorful one. A mix of history, a bit of science, personal reflection, and honest conversation about the state of our minds today. If you’ve ever wondered why you can binge a 3 hour podcast but struggle to read 3 pages, this one will make you feel seen 😊If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think; feel free to reach out at ([email protected])Support the show

  7. 23

    Why do humans talk? And what does our language say about us?

    For Feedbacks Language is one of the most human things about us; but we rarely stop to think about how it actually works. In this episode, we explore language from every angle: how writing changed the way we think, how our biology shaped the way we tell stories, and how culture, identity, and even power are woven into the words we use every day.We touch on the big ideas from linguistics in simple, human language; how children learn to speak, why every language has its own rhythm, and why multilingual people sometimes feel like different versions of themselves. We also talk about storytelling, memory, and the invisible rules our brains follow whenever we speak.If you’ve ever wondered why language feels so natural yet so complicated, or how it shapes the person you’ve become, this episode is for you 🫶🏿If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think; feel free to reach out at ([email protected])Support the show

  8. 22

    What does it mean to be human ?

    For Feedbacks In this episode of Beyond The Surface, we explore one of the oldest and most intimate questions: What does it actually mean to be human? Not in a philosophical textbook sense; but in a real, lived, everyday way...We talk about self-awareness, deep emotions, the messiness of being alive, and that quiet inner tension W.E.B. Du Bois once called double consciousness  'The feeling of seeing yourself through your own eyes and the world’s eyes at the same time.'From the beauty of vulnerability to the weight of insecurity, from identity to connection, this episode is an invitation to reflect on the parts of ourselves we often ignore. It’s honest, grounded, and rooted in real human experience.If you’ve ever paused for a second and wondered who you are beneath all the roles, expectations, and noise; This conversation is for you 🫶🏿If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think; feel free to reach out at ([email protected])Support the show

  9. 21

    Alone Together “ The New Communication Crisis “

    For Feedbacks In this episode of Beyond The Surface, we dive into how social media is quietly reshaping the way we talk, listen, and connect. From the illusion of “being connected” to the rise of shallow conversations, we unpack the subtle shifts happening in our communication today.Drawing on Sherry Turkle’s powerful insights and Paul Grice’s conversational maxims, we explore why our interactions feel more fragmented, why attention has become a rare currency, and how digital habits influence the quality of our relationships.Together, we break down the psychology, the philosophy, and the real-life consequences of living in a world where online presence often replaces genuine presence.Whether you’re a creator, a thinker, or just someone trying to communicate better, this episode will make you rethink the way you talk to the people you care about...If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think; feel free to reach out at [email protected] the show

  10. 20

    Democracy: The Price of Inequality

    For Feedbacks Despite all our progress, inequality keeps rising; not just economically, but socially and politically too. It’s almost as if the gap between the powerful and the powerless has become an accepted part of modern democracy. But should it be?This episode dives into the hidden connection between wealth and democracy & how money doesn’t just buy comfort, but influence. We’ll explore how the concentration of wealth shapes political power, how economic frustration weakens trust in democratic systems, and why some voices in society grow louder while others fade into silence...Through the lenses of sociology, economics, and psychology, we’ll try to uncover how inequality subtly shapes our sense of justice, belonging, and participation. Does democracy still serve the people, or has it become a system that protects privilege??? And if democracy was meant to be the great equalizer, what happens when the scales tip too far?!If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think; feel free to reach out at [email protected] the show

  11. 19

    SLAVERY: The Inherited Wound

    For Feedbacks In this episode, we dive into one of humanity’s darkest truths SLAVERY. Not just as a historical system, but as a mindset, an institution, and a legacy that continues to shape our modern world. We uncover how slavery dehumanized generations, built empires, and left psychological and cultural scars that still echo today.From the transatlantic slave trade to the subtle forms of exploitation that exist now, we explore how power, obedience, and fear created a world where some ruled and others were broken. Through stories of resistance, identity, and survival, we reflect on the complexity of slavery; not only as a crime of the past, but as a mirror of our present...Because to understand freedom, we must first confront what it means to be enslaved.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think; feel free to reach out at [email protected] the show

  12. 18

    The Inheritance Of Culture: How Culture Shapes Who We Are ?

    For Feedbacks In this episode, I sit down with Professor Güven from Earlham College (USA) to explore how culture quietly shapes the way we think, feel, and see the world. What begins as an improvised conversation turns into a deep reflection on cultural inheritance, identity, and perception; and how much of who we are is actually passed down to us, often without our awareness. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think; feel free to reach out at [email protected] the show

  13. 17

    Running Out of Time: Why Modern Life Always Feels Too Fast ?

    For Feedbacks In a world that never slows down, why does time feel shorter than ever?In this episode, we explore the psychology, culture, and philosophy of time; from Hartmut Rosa’s idea of social acceleration to the holiday paradox and the illusions of progress that shape modern life. Through reflection and story, we ask: is time really moving faster, or have we simply forgotten how to move with it?If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think; feel free to reach out at [email protected] the show

  14. 16

    Shaped by Surroundings

    For Feedbacks Can we ever truly separate ourselves from the environments that shaped us? In this episode, we dive into how culture, language, and social settings mold our thoughts, values, and even our sense of self. It’s a conversation about identity, belonging, and the quiet power of the world around us.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think; feel free to reach out at [email protected] the show

  15. 15

    What Freedom Really Costs (The Paradox of Being Free)

    For Feedbacks We all crave freedom, but few of us are ready for what it demands. In this episode, I explore the thin line between freedom and responsibility; through my own experiences and the ideas of Sartre, Nietzsche, and Kierkegaard.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think; feel free to reach out at [email protected] the show

  16. 14

    The Self-Made Myth: Why No One Succeeds Alone ?

    For Feedbacks We grow up believing success is a solo journey; that if we just work hard enough, we’ll make it on our own. But is that the whole truth? In this episode, we strip away the illusion of the self-made myth and uncover the invisible hands that guide every story of achievement.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think—feel free to reach out at [email protected] the show

  17. 13

    SILENCE (our forgotten superpower...)

    For Feedbacks In a world overflowing with noise, both external and internal, silence often feels uncomfortable. Yet, silence is more than the absence of sound; it is a language of its own. In this episode of Beyond The Surface, we explore the philosophy and power of silence. From the wisdom of ancient thinkers to the role silence plays in our relationships and self-growth, we uncover why choosing silence can sometimes speak louder than words.Join me as we reflect on questions like:Why do we fear silence in conversations?How can silence help us listen better, not only to others, but to ourselves?And what can philosophy, psychology, and personal experience teach us about embracing stillness?This is not just an episode about being quiet — it’s about learning to hear the world, and ourselves, more clearly.                                                                                      If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think—feel free to reach out at [email protected] the show

  18. 12

    Beyond Romance: Rethinking Love and Relationships

    For Feedbacks In this episode of Beyond The Surface, we sit down with Koray and Justin to dive into the timeless topic of love and relationships. From the highs of deep connection to the challenges of modern dating, we explore what it really means to love and be loved. Together, we share stories, insights, and different perspectives on how relationships shape our lives, our choices, and our growth. Whether you’re in love, searching, or simply curious, this conversation goes beyond clichés and gets real about what it takes to build meaningful connections.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think—feel free to reach out at [email protected] the show

  19. 11

    Beyond Belief: Conversations on Meaning, Growth, and the Journey of Life

    For Feedbacks In this special episode, we sit down with Koray and Justin for an open, honest, and thought-provoking conversation about life itself. From the pursuit of meaning to the role of belief, from shaping our goals to how education influences who we become — we explore the questions that shape our identities and paths. It’s a real conversation between friends, reflecting, questioning, and sharing perspectives on what it means to live with intention in an ever-changing world.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think—feel free to reach out at [email protected] the show

  20. 10

    The Enlightenment: Thinking Our Way to Freedom

    For Feedbacks "I may not agree with you, but I will defend to the death your right to say it." — Voltaire.In this episode, we journey through the Enlightenment—an era that reshaped how we think, speak, and challenge the world around us. It's not just about history or philosophy; it's about the courage to question, to reason, and to value freedom of thought above all. I also share my personal reflections on how Enlightenment ideals still echo in our daily lives, and why they matter more than ever today.f you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think—feel free to reach out at [email protected] the show

  21. 9

    The Renaissance Explained | History 101

    For Feedbacks The Renaissance marked a turning point in human history — a time when art flourished, curiosity ignited, and the individual began to matter. In this episode, we explore how this cultural rebirth reshaped Europe’s values, challenged religious dominance, and laid the groundwork for modern thought. From the rise of humanism to the revival of classical philosophy, we unpack the essence of an era that dared to rethink everything.🎙️If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think—feel free to reach out at [email protected] the show

  22. 8

    The Pursuit of Happiness | Virtue, Pleasure, and the Meaning of a Good Life...

    For Feedbacks We hear it everywhere "Just be happy." But what does that actually mean? In this episode, we dive into the many layers of happiness through a philosophical lens. From the Stoics to the skeptics, from virtue to pleasure, we explore how different schools of thought have tried to define happiness and why it’s not the same for everyone. We also touch on cultural differences, ancient wisdom, and the very human desire to live a fulfilling life. This isn’t a step-by-step guide to happiness, it’s a conversation about what it means to seek it in the first place.🎙️If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊 I'd love to hear what you think—feel free to reach out at [email protected] Support the show

  23. 7

    The Courage to Be You: Revealing Alfred Adler's Psychology

    For Feedbacks In this episode, we dive into Alfred Adler’s groundbreaking ideas on inferiority, striving for significance, and the deep human need to belong. What does it mean to live authentically? And how can his psychology help us make sense of our patterns and relationships? Tune in for a practical yet philosophical exploration.🎙️If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊Support the show

  24. 6

    Revolution, Philosophy, and Thought: The Power of Classic Books

    For Feedbacks Classic books are more than just old stories—they are windows into history, philosophy, and the evolution of human thought. In this episode, we explore why reading classics is essential for understanding critical thinking, societal structures, revolutions, and the foundations of modern ideas. From literature to philosophy, we'll dive into how these books shape our perspectives and why they remain relevant today. Join me as we uncover the timeless power of classic literature. 🎙️If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊Support the show

  25. 5

    Beyond Words: Unlocking The Key to Effective Communication | Episode 2

    For Feedbacks Can the languages you speak shape your personality and confidence? In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating connection between multilingualism and articulation, sharing insights, strategies, and real-life examples to help you become a better communicator.🎙️If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to leave a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more insightful and thought-provoking conversations. Your support means the world and helps us continue creating even better content! 😊Got thoughts or feedback? Feel free to reach out via email: [email protected]. We’d love to hear from youSupport the show

  26. 4

    The Psychology of Articulation & Multilingualism | Episode 1

    For Feedbacks Have you ever struggled to express yourself, even when you knew exactly what you wanted to say? In this episode of Beyond The Surface, we dive into the fascinating world of articulation—how we form words, the psychology behind speaking clearly, and the hidden impact of multilingualism on our thought process. From psycholinguistics to the concept of Third Culture Kids, we explore how language shapes identity, emotions, and even the way we perceive the world. Whether you're a polyglot or just looking to refine your speaking skills, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on the art of communication.🎙️If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and follow Beyond The Surface for more deep and thought-provoking conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring you even better content 😊Support the show

  27. 3

    Stoicism: The Art of Inner Strength

    For Feedbacks In a world full of chaos and uncertainty, Stoicism offers a timeless guide to resilience, wisdom, and peace of mind. In this episode, we dive into the core principles of Stoicism, exploring insights from philosophers like Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus. How can we control our emotions, embrace discomfort, and find freedom in discipline? Tune in as we break down Stoicism in a simple, relatable way—blending ancient wisdom with real-life examples to help you cultivate a stronger mindset.🎙️Support the show

  28. 2

    When Self-Love Becomes Self-Destruction: The Truth About Narcissism

    For Feedbacks Narcissism is often painted in extremes—either as dangerous self-obsession or as a necessary trait for success. But what if the truth is somewhere in between? In this episode, we unravel the many shades of narcissism, exploring its psychological roots, its role in our lives, and how it can manifest in both healthy and destructive ways.🎙️Support the show

  29. 1

    Purpose: Found or Created?

    For Feedbacks Purpose...do we discover it, or do we create it? In this episode, I dive deep into what it really means to have a sense of purpose, sharing insights from psychology, philosophy, and even history. I talk about personal experiences, books that shaped my perspective (like Sapiens and The Courage to Be Disliked), and some science-backed techniques to help you gain clarity. Whether you feel lost or just curious, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on purpose and how to navigate life with more intention. Let’s figure it out together.🎙️For your feedbacks, you can reach me out through the link and the E mail below 😊E mail: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mu7.su?igsh=ODNxOWd5aGw4bHJj&utm_source=qrSupport the show

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Welcome to Beyond The Surface 🎙️A space where we slow down, think deeper, and explore the parts of life we usually rush past. Philosophy, psychology, mental health, identity and all the things that shape us, quietly or loudly. I’m Mohammad, and I’m here to have the conversations I’ve always looked for but rarely found…I’ve always been drawn to depth; in people, in ideas, in the way we use language to show who we are. But expressing that depth hasn’t always been easy. I grew up moving between languages and cultures, and each one brings out a different version of me. Arabic, English, Turkish… sometimes they feel like superpowers, and other times they feel like weight I have to carry.But they’ve all shaped the way I think, the way I feel, and the way I try to make sense of the world.Like many of you, I’ve spent years trying to understand not just who I am, but how to be. How to speak up. How to stay curious. How to believe in something

HOSTED BY

Mo Solomon

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