The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos
Pushkin Industries
You might think you know what it takes to lead a happier life… more money, a better job, or Instagram-worthy vacations. You’re dead wrong. Yale professor Dr. Laurie Santos has studied the science of happiness and found that many of us do the exact opposite of what will truly make our lives better. Based on the psychology course she teaches at Yale -- the most popular class in the university’s 300-year history -- Laurie will take you through the latest scientific research and share some surprising and inspiring stories that will change the way you think about happiness.
Episodes
Mentioned books
105 snips
Nov 7, 2022 • 32min
Happier Parents, Happier Kids Pt 2: Letting Children Try and Fail
Join former Stanford dean Julie Lythcott-Haims, author of *How to Raise an Adult*, as she discusses the pitfalls of overparenting. She emphasizes the importance of letting kids face challenges and learn from failure, which cultivates resilience and independence. Julie shares insights on how excessive parental involvement can stifle children's growth, and she highlights the need for a balance between guidance and autonomy. Tune in for strategies on supporting children's unique identities while fostering their ability to navigate life's hurdles.
59 snips
Oct 31, 2022 • 30min
Happier Parents, Happier Kids Pt 1: Your Child Isn't a VIP or a Fragile Vase
Michaeleen Doucleff, a science journalist and author of "Hunt, Gather, Parent," joins to discuss the pitfalls of over-parenting. She shares her transformative journey away from micromanaging her daughter Rosy towards a more relaxed parenting style. Insights include the negative effects of treating kids like VIPs and the importance of unstructured play. Doucleff also contrasts modern parenting methods with cultural practices that promote autonomy. The conversation emphasizes fostering independence for happier families and healthier children.
39 snips
Oct 24, 2022 • 31min
Hulking Out! Why You Change When You're Angry
Discover how intense emotions like anger can transform us into strangers to ourselves, much like the Incredible Hulk. Explore the emotional complexities of childbirth and the struggle between expectations and reality. Learn about compassion fatigue in the workplace amid cultural shifts towards empathy and equity. Delve into the empathy gaps that challenge our self-prediction during intense moments. Gain practical techniques for managing emotions and improving decision-making during high-stress situations.
218 snips
Oct 17, 2022 • 32min
You Only Live Once... So Commit
Mickey Hart, the legendary drummer for the Grateful Dead and coiner of the term YOLO, is joined by author Pete Davis, who champions the power of commitment in a world of endless options. They delve into why embracing long-term commitments leads to deeper fulfillment, contrasting it with the anxiety of constantly keeping options open. Hart shares personal anecdotes on the joy of dedication while Davis argues that true happiness comes from meaningful choices, challenging the spontaneous YOLO mindset. Together, they illuminate how commitment can enrich our lives.
20 snips
Oct 10, 2022 • 29min
The Fun of Eating a Pepper Hotter Than the Sun
Delve into the fiery world of the Carolina Reaper as a daring author challenges the limits of pleasure and pain. Ever wondered why we derive happiness from discomfort? Explore the science behind benign masochism and emotional growth through safe, imaginative outlets. Learn how to face fears without real harm and discover the thrill of pain responsibly. Plus, uncover how artificial soundscapes influenced athlete performances during the Tokyo Olympics, and how we can playfully engage with our discomforting emotions to find joy.
6 snips
Oct 6, 2022 • 31min
From Revisionist History: The Starvation Experiment
Malcolm Gladwell, bestselling author and host of "Revisionist History," delves into the haunting Minnesota Starvation Experiment conducted during World War II. He discusses the severe physical and psychological challenges faced by the 18 volunteers, unearthing their personal narratives decades later. The conversation raises ethical questions about medical research practices then and now, exploring how such deprivation profoundly alters one’s relationship with food and identity, all while scrutinizing the legacy of influential figures like Ansel Keys.
132 snips
Oct 3, 2022 • 30min
Why Living Without Regret is a Bad Idea
Liz Fosslien, an illustrator known for her thoughtful insights alongside her partner Molly, discusses how she learned to embrace her regrets after a family crisis. Daniel Pink, author of The Power of Regret, shares findings from his World Regret Survey, revealing that about 90% of people feel significant remorse and how understanding these emotions can guide authentic living. Together, they explore how regrets can highlight values, foster personal growth, and encourage making choices aligned with our true selves.
34 snips
Sep 26, 2022 • 43min
The Handbook for Sonic Happiness - A Twenty Thousand Hertz/Happiness Lab Mash-up
Explore how sound influences our emotions and mental well-being. Discover the impact of music on memory and connection, and delve into the sensory experience of ASMR. Learn about misophonia and its effects on happiness, along with practical noise management tips. Highlight the importance of hearing protection in a noisy world and its implications for overall quality of life. Finally, find comfort in the healing power of natural sounds and the joy of silence, cultivating mindfulness in our auditory experiences.
27 snips
Sep 19, 2022 • 32min
Move to Your Happy Place
Helen Russell, a journalist who left London for rural Denmark, shares her adventure in seeking happiness in the world's happiest country. She explores how the Danish lifestyle, emphasizing work-life balance and hyggelig moments, transformed her view on joy. Dan Buettner introduces 'Blue Zones' and the role of community in enhancing well-being. Russell also discusses adapting to cultural differences and offers insights on boosting happiness without relocating, proving that a happier environment can be cultivated anywhere.
20 snips
Sep 12, 2022 • 32min
Nerd Out! The Happiness of Being a Fan
Tabitha Carvan, a YA author and passionate Benedict Cumberbatch fan, discusses how fandom can enhance happiness and enrich lives. She shares her emotional journey of embracing her love for Cumberbatch and the community it created. The conversation also delves into the psychological benefits of fandom, tackling the stigma around intense interests while celebrating their ability to foster connection and joy. Ultimately, Carvan encourages listeners to embrace their inner geek and the transformative power of shared passions.
