The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

In this discussion, actor Lili Taylor, known for her roles in 'Say Anything' and 'Six Feet Under', shares how birdwatching has become her sanctuary from the pressures of acting. She delves into the emotional toll of her career and how nature’s beauty fosters mindfulness and joy. Lili passionately describes the transformative power of observing birds, highlighting their ability to evoke awe and connection. Listeners will discover how birding nurtures personal well-being and encourages a deeper appreciation for life's fleeting moments.

Etiquette expert William Hanson, author of Just Good Manners and host of Help I Sexted My Boss, reveals how good manners enhance our happiness and strengthen relationships. He shares the historical evolution of etiquette, emphasizing its role in social interactions. Listeners learn about the practical aspects of dining etiquette, how small gestures can create memorable gatherings, and the psychological benefits of practicing gratitude. Williams highlights that thoughtful engagement fosters joy, making etiquette a timeless antidote for modern disconnection.

Elias Weiss Friedman, known as The Dogist, shares how dogs transformed his life and career after losing his job. He reveals the comfort and joy dogs provide, emphasizing their role in emotional healing and connection. Elias discusses the profound bond between humans and dogs, scientific benefits of companionship, and the community fostered by sharing dog stories. He highlights the importance of adopting mixed-breed dogs and how they inspire us to be our best selves, all while promoting happiness and authentic relationships.

In this conversation, bestselling author Mel Robbins shares her insights on letting go of perfectionism and the grip of people-pleasing. She discusses how childhood experiences influence our need for control in relationships. Mel emphasizes the power of two simple phrases: 'Let them' and 'Let me,' which promote self-care and personal boundaries. By reflecting on personal stories, she highlights the transformative impact of these words and encourages listeners to embrace imperfection for a happier, more authentic life.

In this discussion, Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist and author of The Anxious Generation, delves into the troubling effects of smartphones on youth, linking them to declining mental health and sleep issues. Jill Murphy, Chief Content Officer at Common Sense Media, provides strategies for parents to balance technology's role in their children's lives. Together, they tackle the paradox of increased digital connectivity contributing to social isolation and poor emotional well-being, while advocating for proactive parenting in the digital age.

David Yeager, a developmental psychologist and author of '10 to 25', shares insights into understanding young people's behavior. He argues that instead of punishing children for disruptive actions, adults should explore the motivations behind these behaviors—like social status or peer connection. Yeager emphasizes the importance of empathetic communication and teaching emotional skills, advocating for autonomy and problem-solving in children. By fostering curiosity and respectful dialogue, parents can build better relationships and help kids navigate challenges effectively.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Becky Kennedy, founder of Good Inside and a mother of three, believes every child is "good inside" despite bad behavior. She discusses the importance of setting clear boundaries while understanding children's emotions. By allowing kids to express disappointment, sadness, or frustration, parents can help them build resilience. Dr. Kennedy shares playful strategies to nurture curiosity and emotional regulation, encouraging a more supportive and understanding parenting approach.

Helen Russell, a British journalist and author of 'The Danish Secret to Happy Kids', shares her enlightening experience of parenting in Denmark. She discusses how Danish children thrive on outdoor play and acceptable risks, contrasting it with more protective parenting styles in the U.K. and U.S. Russell emphasizes the core values of trust and autonomy in fostering happier, independent kids. She also uncovers how embracing risks during adolescence builds resilience and essential life skills, advocating for a balanced approach to happiness and responsibility.

Glennon Doyle, bestselling author and host of We Can Do Hard Things, teams up with Olympic gold medalist and advocate Abby Wambach to discuss the impact of childhood experiences on modern parenting. They share their own journeys of 'reparenting' to break harmful cycles while raising their three children. Topics include cultivating unconditional love, personal growth amid challenges, and the importance of self-compassion. Through honest reflections, they explore how to foster healthier relationships and avoid repeating past mistakes.

Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy shares his insights on the mental health struggles of parents today. He emphasizes the feelings of loneliness, guilt, and burnout many experience while raising children. Dr. Murthy advocates for better support systems to reduce parental stress, especially in a post-pandemic world. He discusses the importance of community and workplace policies in nurturing connections among parents. Tune in for practical strategies to foster self-compassion and enhance parental well-being.