The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

Big Bird, the iconic 8-foot tall character from Sesame Street, joins therapist Dr. Joy Harden Bradford to discuss navigating the stormy seas of emotions. They explore how to manage feelings of disappointment, using creative tools like the glitter jar for emotional regulation. Big Bird learns that acknowledging all feelings, even the tough ones, is vital for personal growth. They also discuss the role of caregivers in supporting children's emotional health and share fun strategies to help kids express their feelings in healthy ways.

Join Abby Cadabby from Sesame Street as she tackles her grumpy day with a sprinkle of gratitude magic. Discover how teaching happiness and emotional skills can improve well-being from childhood to adulthood. The podcast highlights the transformative power of gratitude, even in challenging moments, and shares practical tips for families to foster positivity. Laugh along as Abby’s chaotic morning turns around, showcasing the importance of recognizing kindness and building connections through gratitude.

Oprah Winfrey, a media mogul and philanthropist, teams up with Arthur Brooks, a Harvard social scientist and author, to share insights from their collaborative book on happiness. They discuss the profound impact of overcoming personal challenges on happiness, the importance of social connections, and the transformative power of altruism. Arthur shares his son's meaningful journey in the Marine Corps, while Oprah emphasizes removing mirrors from our homes to foster a deeper connection with others. Their engaging conversation inspires listeners to actively cultivate joy and fulfillment.

A listener's journey sparks a conversation about rediscovering fun amidst a busy life. Topics include the joy of stepping out of comfort zones, transforming challenges into playful experiences, and the freedom of embracing being a beginner. Personal anecdotes reveal the thrill of learning new skills, like surfing, and celebrating the process over the outcome. The concept of a 'fun audit' encourages reflection on what truly brings joy, fostering personal growth and deeper connections in everyday life.

Listener Natalie seeks to infuse more fun into her running club's routine, inspired by a quest for joy. The discussion dives into rediscovering the playful spirit of childhood amidst adult responsibilities. Personal anecdotes highlight the importance of authentic enjoyment and connecting with others. Insights reveal how to find joy in everyday experiences and cultivate gratitude. The transformative power of simple moments, laughter, and mindfulness is celebrated, reminding us that joy can often be found in the ordinary.

In this lively discussion, Natalie Robinson, Lisa Whelan, and Jen Moran—members of a women's running club—share how they reignited their sense of joy after feeling bogged down by life. Inspired by Dr. Santos, they created 'funterventions' to bring laughter back into their lives. From scavenger hunts to beach walks, they reflect on the impact of friendship and structured fun in fostering connections. Their journey illustrates the importance of playful interactions and stepping outside comfort zones to embrace joy and meaningful experiences.

In this engaging discussion, Dan Gilbert, author of "Stumbling on Happiness," delves into the paradox of wealth and emotional well-being. He reveals how sudden riches can lead to unexpected unhappiness and examines the psychological immune system that helps us cope with life's challenges. The conversation touches on hedonistic adaptation and the intricate relationship between emotional struggles and resilience, ultimately showcasing how true happiness often comes from overcoming adversity rather than material success.

In this heartwarming conversation, Rebecca Kaduru shares her inspiring recovery journey after a devastating car accident left her with severe facial injuries. Living in Uganda, she faced immense challenges in receiving care but found hope through the story of JR Martinez, an Army veteran and actor who overcame severe burns. Together, they discuss resilience, the significance of shared narratives, and how humor plays a pivotal role in healing. Their powerful accounts highlight the importance of mental health and connection in the face of trauma.

Gretchen Rubin, a bestselling author and expert on happiness, joins Dr. Laurie Santos for a lively Q&A in Toronto. They discuss survival mode and self-compassion strategies to cope with overwhelming feelings. Listeners learn about innovative stress management techniques, like ‘worry time,’ and the importance of social connections to combat loneliness. They explore the interplay of happiness, grief, and personal narratives, emphasizing the significance of sleep on well-being and the transformative power of engagement for true happiness.

Steve Youngwood, CEO of Sesame Workshop, joins Dr. Laurie Santos for a delightful exploration of happiness from a young age. They discuss the urgent need for integrating emotional skills into early education alongside traditional subjects. Elmo makes an appearance, highlighting how fun activities can teach mindfulness and gratitude. They also address the role of media in helping children navigate emotions, especially during challenging times. Listeners will discover practical strategies to bolster emotional well-being and resilience for kids and caregivers alike!