Why Psychopaths Secretly Run The World (How to Spot Them) | Daniel Jones

Why Psychopaths Secretly Run The World (How to Spot Them) | Daniel Jones

Author: Sean Kim September 5, 2025 Duration: 1:21:06

Dr. Daniel Jones is a psychologist and researcher best known for his expertise in dark personality traits such as narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy. He has published widely on how these traits influence relationships, leadership, and society, making complex psychological concepts accessible to the public. Dr. Jones is also a sought-after speaker and educator, often featured in media and podcasts where he discusses the impact of personality on everyday life.


In our conversation we discuss:

(00:01) – Spotting psychopaths
(02:13) – Survival context vs psychopathy
(05:19) – Dark triad overview
(10:12) – Prevalence of dark traits
(14:52) – Machiavelli vs Machiavellianism
(18:39) – Influence vs manipulation
(26:36) – Origins: nature vs nurture
(32:30) – Self-awareness of dark traits
(37:39) – Dark traits in leadership
(42:12) – Power tactics and society
(48:36) – Trolley problem basics
(52:48) – Careers suited to dark traits
(1:00:28) – Self-awareness aiding manipulation
(1:04:00) – Dark traits in dating
(1:08:55) – Vetting romantic partners
(1:13:14) – Attraction to high-empathy partners
(1:17:38) – Cutting ties vs expecting change


Learn more about Dr. Daniel

https://www.unr.edu/social-psychology/people/dan-jones


Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim


Sean Kim hosts Growth Minds with Sean Kim, a podcast built on the idea that meaningful growth touches every part of our lives. Each episode features a deep, unscripted conversation with a leading voice, moving beyond simple tips to explore the philosophies and personal stories behind their success. You’ll hear from an incredibly diverse roster, from financial thinker Robert Kiyosaki and neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman to cultural icons like Dennis Rodman and musicians like Steve Aoki. The discussions naturally weave through interconnected themes of physical health, mental resilience, financial wisdom, and personal relationships. Whether it’s Dr. Jason Fung breaking down metabolic health or Wim Hof explaining his breathing methods, the focus is on practical insights you can apply. This isn’t about abstract theory; it’s about the tangible habits and mindset shifts that help you build a better life. Tune in for a consistently surprising and substantive dialogue that challenges how you think about your own potential.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Growth Minds with Sean Kim
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