Nick Epley, a behavioral science professor at the University of Chicago, joins to discuss the uplifting effects of giving. He shares transformative stories of how donations have improved lives in Kibobo, Rwanda. Epley highlights the deep psychological benefits of generosity, emphasizing that kindness fosters connection and enhances personal happiness. The conversation encourages listeners to adopt giving as a daily habit, underscoring how even small acts can create profound impacts on others and enrich our own lives.

In this celebration of five years, Dr. Laurie Santos chats with Don Wetzel, inventor of the ATM, who shares insights on technology's impact on human connection. Behavioral scientist Nick Epley discusses how fostering personal connections can enhance happiness amidst automation. David Byrne, renowned musician, emphasizes the joy found in interactions with strangers, challenging the loneliness that often comes with convenience. Together, they explore the hidden costs of solitude and advocate for revitalizing human engagement in our lives.

In this discussion, Nick Epley, a behavioral scientist at the University of Chicago, delves into the loneliness epidemic and the paradox of avoiding social interactions despite their benefits. He highlights how anxiety and misconceptions deter us from reaching out to others, even when those connections could be rewarding. Drawing on fascinating research examples, Epley encourages curiosity and openness to enrich our social lives. Discover how our beliefs impact our relationships and why even a simple hello can lead to unexpected joy.

Nick Epley, a parent dealing with his daughter's cancer diagnosis, recounts a heartwarming story of a restaurant owner's unexpected support by providing food and gifts to the hospital floor during a challenging time.

A lot of the festive events and traditions we look forward to each year will be very different in 2020. Gatherings might be smaller than we'd like... or cancelled altogether. Family tensions might be heightened too. But Dr Laurie Santos has gathered a group of top happiness experts to share their tips, tricks and science-backed strategies to make this holiday season as good as it can be.... and maybe even great.Joining Laurie for this festive Zoom party are Jamil Zaki from Stanford University, Liz Dunn from the University of British Columbia and Nick Epley from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.