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
42 snips
Nov 23, 2021 • 22min
How to Adopt a Growth Mindset
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.
Nov 22, 2021 • 6min
The Happiness Lab Presents: Miracle and Wonder: Conversations with Paul Simon
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.
46 snips
Nov 8, 2021 • 51min
How to be Happier at Work (with Dan Harris)
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.
9 snips
Nov 2, 2021 • 38min
How to Feel More Empathy (With the Host of Bad Women: The Ripper Retold)
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.
Oct 25, 2021 • 1h 1min
An 80s nostalgia-fest with Molly Ringwald and Rob Lowe
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.
Oct 11, 2021 • 29min
Laurie Gets a Fun-tervention (Part Two: Beach Party)
Discover how one woman's journey to find joy includes surfing lessons and a fun-tervention at the beach. The discussion celebrates being a beginner and the laughter that comes with it. Dive into anecdotes about embracing new experiences and the importance of playfulness in adulthood. The hosts explore personal growth through fun and share insights on reconnecting with joy, including a lighthearted sing-along to punctuate their adventure. Tune in for an uplifting take on rekindling happiness!
Sep 27, 2021 • 35min
Laurie Gets a Fun-tervention (Part One)
Discover how adulting can drain the fun out of life, as Dr. Santos reflects on her childhood hero, Peter Pan. She teams up with Catherine Price for a 'fun-tervention' to reignite joy and playfulness. They discuss the critical role of fun in boosting mental and physical well-being, while personal anecdotes reveal the magic of rediscovering simple pleasures. From finding delight in everyday moments to fostering genuine connections, this conversation inspires listeners to make room for joy in their busy lives.
20 snips
Sep 22, 2021 • 38min
How to Handle Change
Maya Shankar, a behavior change expert and host of 'A Slight Change of Plans', joins the discussion on navigating life's inevitable changes. They dive into strategies for reframing our fears around change and uncovering the personal growth that can emerge from it. Through inspiring stories and psychological insights, they emphasize the importance of resilience, emotional reflection, and embracing a growth mindset. Listeners also learn how character strengths can enhance happiness during transitions. It's a refreshing take on handling life's uncertainties!
Sep 20, 2021 • 32min
The Kindness of Strangers
Delve into the tragic case of Kitty Genovese and the myth of bystander apathy. Discover how personal stories, from a soldier's bravery in Vietnam to a high schooler's journey of kindness after loss, challenge traditional theories. Uncover the surprising truth: people often want to help more than we think. Explore how fostering a culture of kindness can enhance community well-being and individual happiness, emphasizing the power of small acts of compassion.
39 snips
Sep 13, 2021 • 40min
You Can’t Always Want What You Like
Explore the quirky disconnect between what we desire and what genuinely satisfies us. Discover the intriguing 'fun scale' that differentiates between effortless enjoyment and challenging experiences that foster personal growth. Delve into the neuroscience behind cravings, revealing why we often chase immediate pleasures over deeper rewards. Learn mindfulness techniques like 'urge surfing' to navigate cravings and cultivate a healthier, more rewarding life. It's a fascinating journey into how embracing discomfort can lead to lasting happiness.
