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.

Laurie Santos, a cognitive scientist and Yale psychology professor known for her popular happiness course, joins Frances Frei and Anne Morriss to explore workplace happiness. They discuss the concept of time famine and the critical need for best friends at work. The conversation highlights how fostering connections and recognition can dramatically boost employee satisfaction. They also emphasize the role of employers in supporting well-being, offering actionable strategies to transform any workplace into a happier environment.

Dan Harris, former ABC News anchor and author of 10% Happier, joins to reveal insights on workplace happiness and mindfulness. They discuss the dual nature of work, exploring how to manage stress and find fulfillment. Harris emphasizes self-care and altruism as key elements in improving workplace dynamics. Techniques like cognitive diffusion help listeners navigate emotions effectively, while fostering joy for others combats jealousy. Ultimately, cultivating a supportive work environment enhances both employee happiness and overall productivity.

Dan Harris, a former news anchor and author of 10% Happier, joins Dr. Laurie Santos to explore the art of dealing with career setbacks. He shares his own experience of having a panic attack live on air, reflecting on how such humbling moments can lead to personal growth. The conversation emphasizes embracing failure as a necessary step toward self-discovery and resilience. They advocate for cultivating a growth mindset, prioritizing self-compassion, and learning to view failures as essential learning experiences in our professional journeys.

In a special World Mental Health Day discussion, Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a clinical psychologist known for her 'Therapy for Black Girls' podcast, highlights the importance of social connections in overcoming loneliness. Gretchen Rubin, a best-selling author focused on happiness, shares insights on self-compassion and managing stress through mindfulness. Dan Harris, a former anchor and host of '10% Happier', emphasizes the healing power of pets and the need for emotional outreach in communities. Together, they provide practical strategies for enhancing well-being and fostering happiness.

Dr. Laurie Santos, a psychologist specializing in well-being, teams up with Dr. Jamil Zaki, an author studying human connection and kindness. They explore the surprising link between civic engagement and personal happiness. Listeners are inspired by stories of individuals who overcame cynicism and made impactful changes in their communities. They discuss the importance of fostering hope to combat disillusionment and emphasize how personal connections can encourage political action, illustrating that striving for change can actually enhance our joy.

Dr. Laurie Santos, a renowned psychologist studying happiness, and Dr. Jamil Zaki, a social psychology expert, dive into the art of disagreement. They reveal that our perceived divides may not be as vast as we think. Discussing the polarization in political views, they emphasize empathy and constructive dialogue. Zaki shares insights from his book, 'Hope for Cynics,' highlighting human goodness. Together, they advocate for understanding perspectives and fostering connections to bridge gaps in today's contentious climate.

Dr. Laurie Santos, a renowned psychologist studying happiness, joins Dr. Jamil Zaki, a social psychology expert and author of "Hope for Cynics." They challenge the myth that ruthlessness is key to success, highlighting how kindness and cooperation often lead to greater well-being. Their discussion covers the surprising cooperative behaviors found in nature, the impact of altruism during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, and the transformation of competitive cultures into compassionate communities. Discover the winning strategies of human goodness!

Jamil Zaki, a Stanford professor renowned for his research on human kindness, joins Dr. Laurie Santos, an expert in trust and optimism. They dive deep into the struggle against cynicism and how it affects relationships and societal trust. The conversation reveals that cynicism can hinder connection and mental health, while 'hopeful skepticism' promotes resilience. Zaki discusses practical ways to embrace hope, highlighting the importance of community and supportive relationships in enhancing well-being amidst modern challenges.

Jamil Zaki, a Stanford scientist and author, sheds light on the surprising science of human goodness. He discusses the perils of cynicism, especially in today's divided world, and offers insights from his new book. Zaki argues that people are generally kinder and more cooperative than we perceive. Through fascinating research and personal anecdotes, he illustrates how fostering hope can enhance our happiness and overall well-being, urging listeners to embrace trust and openness in their lives.