Shankar Vedantam is a distinguished American journalist and science correspondent renowned for his insightful exploration of human behavior and social sciences. He is the creator and host of the acclaimed Hidden Brain family of products, which includes a bestselling book, a popular podcast, and a radio program. Vedantam’s academic background includes an undergraduate degree in electronics engineering from India and a master’s degree in journalism from Stanford University, equipping him with a unique perspective on the intersection of technology and human behavior.

His professional journey began at The Washington Post, where he worked from 2001 to 2011. During this time, he wrote the influential “Department of Human Behavior” column, which laid the groundwork for his later work. In 2010, he published his first nonfiction book, The Hidden Brain, which delves into the unconscious biases that shape our decisions and interactions. This work has garnered significant acclaim, including the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award, highlighting his contributions to journalism and social science.

In 2011, Vedantam joined NPR as a social science correspondent, where he further expanded his reach and impact. His Hidden Brain podcast has become a phenomenon, attracting over three million downloads per week and airing on nearly 400 public radio stations across the United States. The podcast’s engaging format allows listeners to explore the unconscious patterns that drive human behavior, making complex psychological concepts accessible to a broad audience.

Beyond his media work, Vedantam has lectured at esteemed institutions such as Harvard and Columbia University, and has served on various advisory boards. His commitment to understanding and communicating the intricacies of human behavior continues to resonate, making him a leading voice in the field of social science journalism.