<p>In this eye-opening episode of <i>Passion Struck</i>, host <strong>John R. Miles</strong> sits down with <strong>Dr. Sandra Matz</strong>, a psychologist and data scientist, to reveal the invisible forces shaping your thoughts, decisions, and behaviors. From social media algorithms to targeted advertising, we explore how data-driven systems are quietly <strong>hacking your free will</strong>—often without you even realizing it.</p><p>Dr. Matz, author of <a href="https://amzn.to/3Xm7ukx" target="_blank"><i>Mind Masters: The Data-Driven Science of Predicting and Changing Human Behavior</i></a>, exposes the <strong>dark side of personalization</strong>, how AI exploits human psychology, and what you can do to <strong>take back control</strong> of your mind and choices.</p><p>Link to the full show notes:  <a href="https://passionstruck.com/sandra-matz-on-the-silent-war-on-your-free-will/" target="_blank">https://passionstruck.com/sandra-matz-on-the-silent-war-on-your-free-will/</a></p><p>Key takeaways:</p><ul><li>How <strong>big data</strong> and AI predict your next move</li><li>The <strong>psychological tricks</strong> that influence your decisions</li><li>Why your <strong>digital footprint</strong> is more revealing than you think</li><li>The <strong>hidden dangers</strong> of online personalization</li><li>How to <strong>reclaim your autonomy</strong> in the digital age</li></ul><p>Connect with Sandra Matz: <a href="https://business.columbia.edu/faculty/people/sandra-matz" target="_blank">https://business.columbia.edu/faculty/people/sandra-matz</a></p><p>Sponsors:</p><ul><li>Factor Meals: http://factormeals.com/factormeals50off and use code “FACTOR MEALS 50 OFF</li><li>Rosetta Stone: Unlock 25 languages for life at <a href="https://www.rosettastone.com/passionstruck" target="_blank">“ROSETTASTONE.com/passionstruck</a>.”</li><li>Prolon: Reset your health with 15% off at <a href="https://prolonlife.com/passionstruck" target="_blank">“ProlonLife.com/passionstruck</a>.”</li><li>Mint Mobile: Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at “<a href="https://mintmobile.com/passion" target="_blank">MINT MOBILE dot com slash PASSION.</a>”</li><li>Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Visit <a href="https://www.hims.com/passionstruck" target="_blank">hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK</a> for your free online visit.</li><li>Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at <a href="https://www.quince.com/passion" target="_blank">quince.com/PASSION</a></li></ul><p>Next on Passion Struck:<br>In the next episode of Passion Struck, John sits down with Natalie Namaste, a thought leader and personal transformation, to explore how to break free from perfectionism and self-doubt, the key to embracing authenticity and rewriting limiting beliefs and practical tools to cultivate inner confidence and a life filled with meaning. This is a conversation that will inspire you to let go of what's holding you back and step boldly into the life you were meant to live.</p><p>For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit <a href="https://passionstruck.com/deals/" target="_blank">Passion Struck Deals</a>.</p><p>Join the Passion Struck Community! Sign up for the Live Intentionally newsletter, where I share exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life. Get access to practical exercises, inspiring stories, and tools designed to help you grow.  <a href="https://passionstruck.com/" target="_blank">Learn more and sign up here.</a></p><p>Speaking Engagements & Workshops Are you looking to inspire your team, organization, or audience to take intentional action in their lives and careers? I’m available for keynote speaking, workshops, and leadership training on topics such as intentional living, resilience, leadership, and personal growth. Let’s work together to create transformational change. Learn more at <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7fb53d43-2b1f-477f-be72-4ba5ea97e3e3/#" target="_blank">johnrmiles.com/speaking</a>.</p><p>Episode Starter Packs With over 500 episodes, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. We’ve curated Episode Starter Packs based on key themes like leadership, mental health, and personal growth, making it easier for you to dive into the topics you care about. Check them out at <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7fb53d43-2b1f-477f-be72-4ba5ea97e3e3/#" target="_blank">passionstruck.com/starterpacks</a>.</p><p>Catch More of Passion Struck:</p><ul><li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/podcast/science-of-healthy-habits/" target="_blank">My solo episode on The Science of Healthy Habits</a></li><li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/jason-omara-finding-strength-in-setba