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
5 snips
Jan 17, 2022 • 27min
Stepping Off the Path of Anxiety
Andrea Wachter, a psychotherapist and meditation teacher, shares her journey battling anxiety and offers powerful coping strategies. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and mindfulness in recognizing and managing anxious thoughts. Listeners learn practical tools like focused breathing and reframing negative thoughts. Wachter also explores embracing emotions, including anger, as a pathway to emotional well-being, all while guiding toward a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
9 snips
Jan 10, 2022 • 33min
The Eight Pillars of Grieving
Julia Samuel, a renowned psychotherapist and bereavement expert, joins to delve into the chaotic nature of grief. She emphasizes there’s no 'normal' way to mourn and shares practical strategies to navigate emotions effectively. Key topics include the importance of mindfulness, establishing support systems, and allowing oneself the necessary time to grieve. Julia introduces her eight pillars of strength for coping, highlighting how vulnerability and acceptance can lead to personal growth and resilience during this challenging emotional journey.
Jan 10, 2022 • 30min
The Paradox of Grief
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.
38 snips
Jan 3, 2022 • 37min
How to Identify Your Negative Emotions
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.
35 snips
Jan 3, 2022 • 45min
Emotions Are Data...So Listen to Them
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.
Dec 20, 2021 • 3min
Reset Your Relationship With Negative Emotions in 2022
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.
Nov 30, 2021 • 27min
How to Give More Effectively
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.
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.
