The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

Julia Samuel, a renowned psychotherapist and author of bestselling books on grief, shares her profound insights on coping with loss. She discusses the paradox of grief, emphasizing the need to feel emotions fully for effective healing. Samuel explains how confronting rather than avoiding these feelings can lead to personal growth and resilience. She challenges societal taboos around death and advocates for open communication about mortality, encouraging listeners to develop real relationships with their lost loved ones.

In this captivating discussion, Harvard Medical School psychologist Susan David shares her insights on emotional agility. She explains how uncomfortable emotions like anger and guilt act as vital signals, guiding us toward greater happiness. Ignoring these feelings can hinder our growth. David emphasizes the power of engaging with negative emotions to better understand our needs and values. By embracing discomfort, we empower ourselves to navigate life's challenges more effectively and authentically.

Brené Brown, a social worker and bestselling author renowned for her insights on vulnerability and empathy, joins Dr. Laurie Santos. They delve into the importance of recognizing and understanding negative emotions like jealousy and envy. Brown emphasizes the need for a richer emotional vocabulary to navigate feelings that can be painful. Through anecdotes and a structured approach, they explore how acknowledging these emotions can improve relationships and overall well-being, helping listeners transform their emotional landscapes for a happier life.

Explore the transformative power of negative emotions like sadness and anger. Discover the importance of acknowledging these feelings instead of ignoring or wallowing in them. Learn practical coping strategies from experts like Brene Brown and Adam Grant. Get inspired to reset your emotional wellbeing for the new year, emphasizing mindfulness in life choices. It's a fresh approach to handling grief, guilt, and burnout to boost your overall happiness.

Joshua Green, a Harvard psychology professor, dives deep into the art of effective altruism and moral decision-making. He reveals why our emotions often lead us astray in charitable giving, encouraging a more strategic approach. Exploring concepts like the trolley problem, he contrasts emotional versus rational philanthropy. Green also discusses common cognitive biases that hinder effective giving and shares tips on blending heart and head for maximum impact. Discover how mindful donations could enhance both societal good and personal happiness.

David Yeager, a psychology professor at UT Austin and collaborator with Carol Dweck, dives into the fascinating world of mindsets. He highlights how fixed beliefs can stunt personal growth and how embracing a growth mindset transforms challenges into opportunities for improvement. Discover the significance of internal narratives and how language shapes our perspectives. Yeager shares compelling research illustrating the effects of a growth mindset on relationships and resilience, urging listeners to adopt a more hopeful attitude towards their potential.

Dive into the creative world of a legendary songwriter, where personal stories intertwine with the artistry of music. A fan recounts intimate lunch conversations that reveal the intricacies of creativity and the impact of storytelling. Explore Paul Simon's rich influences, from doo-wop to family ties, shedding light on his lyrical genius. Discover why he chose to step back from music, providing a deeper understanding of the complexities behind his craft.

Dan Harris, ABC News anchor and host of the Ten Percent Happier podcast, shares his transformative journey from a demanding job to focusing on mindfulness. He discusses strategies to enhance happiness at work, including the importance of time management, finding joy in job crafting, and dealing with jealousy through meditation. Dan and Dr. Laurie Santos emphasize the significance of embracing emotions in the workplace and integrating mindfulness practices to foster a more fulfilling work environment.

Hallie Rubenhold, a historian known for her podcast "Bad Women: The Ripper Retold," delves into the overlooked lives of Jack the Ripper's victims. She discusses the societal biases that prevent empathy, emphasizing how we often blame victims for their fates. The conversation shifts focus to the complexity of the women's realities, challenging preconceptions about their lives. By sharing their struggles with addiction and homelessness, Hallie underscores the vital need for empathy and understanding, especially in today's overwhelming world.

Rob Lowe, celebrated actor from 'St. Elmo's Fire,' and Molly Ringwald, the face of 80s teen classics like 'The Breakfast Club,' dive into the charm of their iconic era. They hilariously debate whether Bop! or Time was the ultimate magazine. Molly reveals a quirky role she'd love to play, and they share funny audition stories, like the cowboy hat mishap. Their nostalgic banter reflects on fame, personal growth, and the lasting impact of their beloved films, making it a delightful trip back in time.