The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos cover image

The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

Latest episodes

undefined
Nov 25, 2024 • 31min

Top 5: How to Act Like an Extrovert

Jessica Pan, author of "Sorry I'm Late, I Didn't Want to Come," shares her journey of transforming from a hardcore introvert to someone who embraces social interactions. She discusses the challenges of extreme shyness and her daring exposure therapy approach of engaging strangers. Listeners learn about the psychological benefits of stepping outside one's comfort zone, the power of genuine listening, and how meaningful connections can vastly improve well-being. Jessica highlights that anyone can cultivate extroverted traits for a richer life.
undefined
Nov 22, 2024 • 33min

Top 5: Throw Yourself into Fandom

Tabitha Carvan, an author and devoted Benedict Cumberbatch fan, discusses the surprising emotional benefits of fandom. She shares personal anecdotes that reveal how embracing one’s passions can enhance happiness and self-discovery. The conversation explores the societal stigma around being a 'geek' and how deep connections with beloved franchises foster community and combat loneliness. Tabitha emphasizes that engaging wholeheartedly in fandom can be transformational, proving that what may seem trivial can lead to profound joy.
undefined
Nov 18, 2024 • 35min

Top 5: Love the Past, But Don't Live There

Actor Rob Lowe, famous for his 80s films and TV shows, joins Dr. Laurie to discuss the tricky nature of nostalgia. He loves reflecting on the past but warns against getting stuck there. They explore how our memories can be selectively skewed, often leading to poor decisions about future happiness. The conversation emphasizes the importance of living in the present and cherishing past experiences without letting them overshadow our current joy.
undefined
Nov 15, 2024 • 35min

Top 5: Finding Joy in Any Job

In this discussion, Amy Wrzesniewski, a Yale professor specializing in job crafting, shares insights into how individuals can reshape their work experiences to find deeper meaning and happiness. She emphasizes that viewing jobs through the lens of purpose rather than paycheck can lead to greater fulfillment. The conversation highlights the myth that higher salaries equate to job satisfaction and explores the significance of intrinsic rewards. Wrzesniewski also discusses the transformative impact of job crafting and how it can empower employees to cultivate joy in even the most unlikely roles.
undefined
Nov 11, 2024 • 36min

Happy Birthday, Happiness Lab: Dr Laurie's Top 5 Shows

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.
undefined
Oct 28, 2024 • 35min

You can be happier at work — here's how from Fixable

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.
undefined
Oct 21, 2024 • 1h 1min

How to Thrive at Work

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.
undefined
Oct 17, 2024 • 43min

How to Fail at Work

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.
undefined
Oct 10, 2024 • 1h

Advice from The Titans of Happiness on World Mental Health Day

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.
undefined
Sep 30, 2024 • 32min

How to Make a Difference (Happily)

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.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode