Flourish FM Episode #76: How Immersive Experiences Lead to Flourishing, with Dr. Paul Zak
Sep 23, 2025
Dr. Paul J. Zak, a renowned neuroeconomist and author, discusses how our brains influence happiness and relationships. He emphasizes the importance of investing in connections for a fulfilling life. Zak explains that simple social actions can strengthen bonds and that shared challenges create deeper trust. He introduces the Six app, which measures high-value moments that enhance mood. Zak reveals how oxytocin boosts empathy and can strengthen relationships while cautioning against its potential for fostering in-group bias. Practical daily actions to enrich relationships are also shared.
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Decision-Making Is The Lens On Flourishing
- Neuroeconomics studies the brain mechanisms behind everyday decisions and flourishing.
- Measuring brain activity during choices reveals why people pursue different paths to well-being.
Make Relationship Investment A Daily Habit
- Invest deliberately in relationships because most happiness comes from close caring people.
- Use measurable practices to strengthen connection rather than vague intentions.
Start Small: Say Hi In Passing
- Start small social actions like saying hi in elevators to train yourself to connect.
- Those brief, low-cost interactions often produce pleasant mood boosts and new connections.
