In this Flashback Friday episode of A Productive Conversation, I revisit a 2016 conversation with Michelle Gielan, author of Broadcasting Happiness. Michelle is a renowned happiness researcher, former CBS News anchor, and executive producer of PBS’s The Happiness Advantage. Since our original chat, Michelle has continued to make an incredible impact by focusing on resilience and the power of positivity in everyday interactions.

As we approach the end of the year, this episode is a timely reminder to think about how we can sustain happiness—not just during the holiday season but year-round. Michelle shares practical strategies to reframe negativity, foster optimism, and create ripple effects of positivity that improve productivity and relationships.

Key Discussion Points

The concept behind Michelle’s book Broadcasting Happiness and how small mindset shifts create significant change.
The story behind CBS’s “Happy Week” and how it reshaped viewers' perspectives during the recession.
Research findings on how positivity can increase resilience and enhance creativity by up to 20%.
The long-term benefits of starting your day with positivity, such as sending gratitude emails.
Simple strategies for fostering optimism and improving workplace productivity by 31%.
Why words matter: How shifting language impacts mindset and influences others.

It was wonderful to revisit this conversation with Michelle and hear her insights on broadcasting happiness and building resilience. Whether you’re looking for actionable ways to reframe negativity or small steps to boost optimism, this episode is full of practical takeaways. Let’s all strive to sustain happiness beyond fleeting moments and make it part of our daily lives. (Originally released December 2016)

Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Michelle: Website | Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn
Buy Michelle's book: Broadcasting Happiness: The Science of Igniting and Sustaining Positive Change
Related Conversation: Episode 59: The Habits of a Happy Brain with Loretta Breuning
Related Blog Post: Celebrate Tonight To Boost Your Productivity Tomorrow

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