Hungry Dogs with James Patterson

Charles Duhigg joins James Patterson for a conversation about habits, behavior change, communication, and why “life hacks” rarely lead to lasting transformation.

Duhigg, Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist and bestselling author of The Power of Habit, Smarter Faster Better, and Super Communicators, explains the science behind the cue–routine–reward loop and why nearly half of what we do each day isn’t a conscious decision; it’s a habit.

They discuss mental habits, deep thinking, storytelling, creativity, and how strong communication skills can combat loneliness and polarization. Duhigg also shares insights on productivity culture, why shortcuts fail, and what it really takes to change behavior for good.
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Vicky Ward joins James Patterson for a revealing conversation about Jeffrey Epstein, power, and the systems that allowed him to operate for decades. Ward, one of the first journalists to profile Epstein in 2003, reflects on the intimidation tactics she experienced firsthand and why Epstein’s influence extended far beyond what most people understood at the time.

They explore the psychology of Epstein’s world, the powerful figures who surrounded him, and how wealth and access can distort accountability. Ward also shares her perspective on Ghislaine Maxwell, former Prince Andrew, and the many unresolved questions that continue to shadow Epstein’s network.

James Patterson also discusses his reaction to being mentioned in the Epstein Files, including email exchanges between Epstein and author Michael Wolff connected to the release of James' 2016 book, Filthy Rich: The Jeffrey Epstein Story.
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Brad Meltzer joins James Patterson for a wide ranging conversation about rejection, resilience, and the unpredictable path to success. Meltzer reflects on receiving 24 rejection letters before publishing his first novel and why those early setbacks shaped his career far more than any instant success story.

They discuss how comic books helped turn them both into lifelong readers, the hidden lessons inside failure, and the mindset required to keep going when nothing seems to be working. Meltzer also shares remarkable personal stories, including honoring veterans, throwing out a first pitch at a Major League Baseball game, and the unforgettable experience of reading to President George H. W. Bush near the end of his life.

The conversation also touches on Meltzer’s latest thriller, The Viper, along with storytelling, persistence, and the moments that quietly define a writer’s career.
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James Patterson sits down with Aldis Hodge and Ben Watkins, the star and showrunner of Amazon’s Cross, to talk about bringing Alex Cross from the page to the screen. They discuss what it means to reinterpret one of fiction’s most iconic detectives, why the series focuses on new stories rather than direct adaptations, and how Cross is written as a father, partner, and human being first.

Catch the premiere of Season 2 of Cross today on Prime Video!

00:00 Intro

01:09 Discussing Season Two of Cross

02:47 Character Complexity and Realism

05:43 The Evolution of Alex Cross

07:11 Behind the Scenes: Writer's Room Insights

12:33 Comparing TV Shows and Movies

14:03 Creating New Stories Beyond the Books

16:03 Character Development and Flaws

17:07 Acting and Watchmaking

19:51 The Art of Television Writing

22:02 Exciting Twists in Season Two

25:07 Upcoming Projects and Collaborations
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James Patterson sits down with author and Harvard professor Dr. Arthur Brooks for a conversation about happiness, suffering, and what actually makes life meaningful. Brooks explains why true happiness requires pain, why eliminating struggle leads to dissatisfaction, and how learning from failure is essential to growth. They discuss the science behind happiness, the difference between success and meaning, the importance of relationships, and how our priorities shift as we age. Drawing from Brooks’ research, teaching, and writing, this episode explores how to build a life rooted in purpose rather than chasing constant pleasure.

00:00 Intro
01:04 The Harvard Happiness Course
02:25 The Science of Happiness
10:12 The Importance of Friendships
15:59 Balancing Work and Family
25:43 Understanding Intelligence Over Time
30:02 Fluid vs. Crystallized Intelligence
32:06 Disrupt Everything: Embracing Change
36:06 Encouraging Writers to Finish Their Books
42:56 Global Poverty and Economic Freedom
44:52 Loving Your Enemies (Seriously)
50:33 The Power of Storytelling and Memory
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