The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

In this engaging discussion, psychologist Barry Schwartz, known for his insights into decision-making, unpacks the art of making better choices. He argues that life's big decisions shouldn't be reduced to mere calculations; instead, understanding your values and purpose is vital. Barry critiques the pitfalls of 'choice overload' and why applying strict rationality can mislead us. He emphasizes the importance of thoughtful reflection over mechanical calculations, especially for significant life choices like career and relationships.

Join economist Juliet Schor, an expert on work-time reduction and author of 'Four Days a Week', as she reveals the life-changing potential of a four-day workweek. She discusses how embracing shorter work hours can boost employee well-being, enhance productivity, and ultimately lead to greater profits for businesses. Through compelling research findings, Schor explains the positive effects on mental health and employee satisfaction, and how organizations can thrive with this innovative approach—all while enjoying more leisure time.

Gregor grapples with his aging parents' refusal to downsize their cluttered home, sparking a journey filled with humor and heart. Etta, his mother, collects items that fuel her creativity but complicate the move. A unique idea emerges to transform a barn into a museum for her art, while the challenges of family dynamics and health issues loom large. As Etta faces her terminal diagnosis, she begins to let go of her possessions, leading to poignant moments of reflection and acceptance. The family's struggle with grief highlights the profound connections between art, memory, and letting go.

Join Nobel Prize-winning behavioral economist Richard Thaler and fellow economist Alex Imas as they explore the quirks of human decision-making around money and time. They discuss the phenomenon of the endowment effect and why we cling to our possessions. Discover why people often procrastinate important tasks and how mental accounting influences our spending habits. Thaler shares practical strategies like the Save More Tomorrow program to improve financial decisions, while shedding light on our irrational tendencies in everyday life.

Dan Buettner, a New York Times bestselling writer and National Geographic explorer, shares captivating insights into the secrets of longevity from the Blue Zones. He discusses how diet and community shape long, happy lives. Discover how typical American eating habits compare unfavorably to those in these remarkable regions. Buettner also introduces his cookbook, One Pot Meals, which offers simple, nutritious recipes for health. Most importantly, he emphasizes the joy of cooking together and the vital role of social connections in fostering well-being.

Dr. Sunita Sah, a physician and professor at Cornell University, discusses the transformative power of defiance in her book, 'Defy: The Power of No in a World That Demands Yes.' She explains how embracing the courage to say no can enhance our happiness. The conversation dives into the dangers of blind obedience, historical insights from the Milgram experiments, and the concept of 'insinuation anxiety' that holds us back. Sunita emphasizes that staying true to personal values, even at a cost, is key to personal fulfillment and societal change.

Bruce Hood, a Professor of Developmental Psychology at Bristol University and happiness course creator, teams up with Dan Harris, author and mindfulness advocate. They dive into prioritizing personal values over societal opinions, offering strategies to foster self-acceptance. The conversation shifts to how negative comparisons affect self-worth and the importance of social connections and resilience in driving happiness. They share insights on embracing authenticity, the power of active listening, and the continuous practice required for lasting happiness.

Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, a leading expert in positive psychology and co-founder of the Happiness Studies Academy, shares insights on training your mind for greater happiness. He reveals that only 30% of happiness is genetic, emphasizing the power of positive mindsets and behaviors. The discussion includes the vital role of social interactions, gratitude, and small daily rituals in enhancing well-being. Tal also highlights the importance of cultivating connections in a digital age, advocating for meaningful conversations to combat loneliness and foster joy.

Rich Roll, a transformational coach and host of The Rich Roll Podcast, dives deep with Dr. Laurie Santos to explore the quirks of the human mind that sabotage our happiness. They dissect the science-backed 'rewirements' that can lead to joy and how societal pressures warp our understanding of fulfillment. The duo delves into concepts like negative visualization to enhance gratitude and stresses the transformative power of curiosity and personal agency in achieving true well-being. Tune in for insights on balancing ambition, community connections, and the little things that can elevate happiness.

Laurie Santos, a Yale professor and happiness expert, joins Ryan Holiday to explore the intersection of Stoicism and happiness. They discuss how embracing our mortality can lead to a more meaningful life through the concept of memento mori. Santos shares personal anecdotes and insights into how acceptance of life's challenges cultivates resilience and deeper fulfillment. The conversation also touches on the importance of mindfulness and finding joy amidst adversity, illustrating how these ancient teachings can be applied in today's world.