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
Sep 6, 2021 • 38min
Let Slip the Dogs of More Happiness
In this engaging discussion, Laurette Nicoll, owner of Georgia the motorcycling dog, shares her heartfelt story of how her canine companion helped her cope with cancer and enhanced her well-being. The conversation delves into the scientific evidence supporting the positive impacts of dog ownership on happiness and health, particularly in relation to stress relief. Laurette also highlights the profound emotional benefits of their bond, making a case for the transformative power of companionship during life's toughest moments.
17 snips
Aug 23, 2021 • 34min
Treating the Pain of a Broken Heart
Tim Colceri, an actor, Marine, and golfer, shares his captivating journey of rejection in Hollywood, highlighting an unforgettable experience with Stanley Kubrick. The discussion delves into the emotional and neurological scars left by social exclusion and how the brain processes these feelings similarly to physical pain. Listeners explore practical strategies for coping with heartbreak and the importance of emotional first aid, self-compassion, and supportive relationships for healing from rejection.
4 snips
Aug 16, 2021 • 35min
Why Nostalgia Ain't So Rosy
Rob Lowe, the iconic actor known for his unforgettable roles in 80s films, shares his love for the decade while highlighting the importance of not getting lost in nostalgia. He discusses how our memories can mislead us, portraying the past in a selective, rosy light. This tendency can negatively impact our present happiness and decision-making. Lowe emphasizes balancing cherished memories with a focus on the present, capturing both the joy and potential pitfalls of nostalgia.
5 snips
Aug 9, 2021 • 37min
The Happiness Lab Meets No Stupid Questions
Angela Duckworth, a renowned psychologist and host of the No Stupid Questions podcast, joins Dr. Laurie Santos to explore the intricacies of happiness. They discuss the importance of social connections and the curious idea of taking separate date nights for dinner and movies. They dive into the unexpected idea that imagining potential misfortunes can enhance our appreciation for what we have. The conversation reveals how even negative life changes might serve as unexpected gifts, challenging our perceptions of happiness and fulfillment.
May 10, 2021 • 48min
Hidden Brain: Laurie Talks Monkeys and Bad Money Decisions.
Laurie Santos, a Yale psychology and cognitive science professor, dives into the fascinating world of monkey behavior and its parallels to human financial decisions. She illustrates how monkeys exhibit surprising economic rationality in experiments, mirroring our cognitive biases like loss aversion. The conversation also explores the monkeys' sense of fairness, revealing essential insights about human inequality. With humor and scientific depth, Santos challenges perceptions of human uniqueness in cognition, shedding light on our evolutionary roots.
23 snips
May 3, 2021 • 33min
Happiness Lessons of The Ancients: Lao Tzu
In this engaging conversation, Solala Towler, a Daoism expert with over 30 years of experience, shares profound insights from Lao Tzu's ancient teachings. He emphasizes embracing life’s flow rather than fighting against it, discovering joy through childlike wonder, and finding balance amidst chaos. Towler discusses the importance of 'wu wei' and how Taoist practices like Qigong and meditation can enhance personal growth. By navigating life's challenges with grace and flexibility, listeners learn to cultivate happiness through ancient wisdom adapted to modern life.
Apr 26, 2021 • 34min
Happiness Lessons of The Ancients: Confucius
Discover how the loss of rituals during the COVID-19 pandemic has affected our happiness. Explore Confucius's insightful teachings on the power of rituals to foster community and joy. Learn about the concept of Ren, emphasizing human connection and mutual support, and how self-cultivation leads to societal well-being. Delve into the role of rituals in education and governance, promoting order and self-control. This fascinating discussion highlights the relevance of ancient wisdom in modern life and the importance of creating meaningful traditions.
Apr 19, 2021 • 29min
Happiness Lessons of The Ancients: Forgiveness
Miroslav Volf, a Yale Divinity School professor, is celebrated for his insights on reconciliation and forgiveness, shaped by personal tragedy. He shares his family's journey from sorrow to a profound act of forgiveness after his brother's death. Volf discusses how forgiveness can unbind the deed from the doer, providing healing. He explores the Christian perspective on forgiveness, emphasizing its transformative power in relationships. Through poignant examples, he illustrates how embracing forgiveness leads to emotional growth and healthier connections.
Apr 12, 2021 • 30min
Happiness Lessons of The Ancients: The Day of Rest
Join Sarah Hurwitz, a former speechwriter for Hillary Clinton and Michelle Obama, as she shares transformative insights on the importance of taking a day of rest. Exploring the Jewish tradition of Shabbat, she highlights how stepping back from constant busyness can enhance personal well-being and deepen connections with loved ones. Sarah reveals her journey from a frantic lifestyle to embracing rest, discussing the mental and emotional benefits of this practice in combating modern pressures and fostering genuine happiness.
Apr 5, 2021 • 28min
Happiness Lessons of The Ancients: The Torah
Sarah Hurwitz, author of "Here All Along" and a former chief speechwriter for Michelle Obama, shares her enlightening journey from disconnection to appreciation of the Torah. She highlights the ethical teachings of Judaism, emphasizing kindness and solidarity, and how these principles align with modern happiness research. Topics include the transformative power of gratitude as a daily practice and the importance of presence in relationships. Hurwitz reveals how ancient wisdom can enhance our well-being by encouraging gratitude, mindfulness, and acts of compassion.
