The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

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!

In this engaging conversation, David Yaden, an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins University, explores the profound effects of spiritual experiences on well-being. He examines the subjective nature of these moments, from awe-inspiring sunsets to psychedelic journeys that can transform lives. Yaden discusses the historical insights of William James on spirituality and happiness, the potential of psychedelics for self-discovery, and the importance of responsible research. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own spiritual moments, fostering a deeper connection with these experiences.

In this lively discussion with Jason Mitchell, a Harvard psychology professor, the duo dives into how we often set unrealistic expectations for our future selves. They explore the concept of 'future time slack' and how we misjudge our capacities, leading to procrastination and self-sabotage. The chat emphasizes the importance of building a kinder relationship with our future selves and offers strategies for aligning present actions with long-term happiness. Together, they challenge listeners to rethink their approach to decision-making and self-care.

Marty Seligman, a leading figure in positive psychology and professor at the University of Pennsylvania, shares insights from his groundbreaking research on happiness and resilience. He discusses the shift from focusing on misery to celebrating flourishing and explains the PERMA model of well-being. Seligman reveals the transformative power of optimism and character strengths and how they can enhance daily happiness. He also shares personal anecdotes, including his journey to becoming a more optimistic and less grouchy person.