The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

Ellen Hendriksen, a clinical psychologist and author, specializes in helping people combat perfectionism. In a candid discussion, she explores the emotional toll of striving for perfection, emphasizing that it often leads to feelings of failure and shame. Hendriksen shares practical strategies for fostering self-acceptance and healing from self-criticism. Listeners learn how to embrace vulnerabilities, rediscover joy in everyday activities, and shift their focus from rigid expectations to authentic self-worth.

Oliver Burkeman, author of 'Meditations for Mortals,' shares his insights on finding joy in imperfection. He discusses how perfectionism can be paralyzing and encourages listeners to embrace their limitations. Burkeman highlights the liberating power of taking action despite fear of inadequacy, promoting strategies like 'whole assing.' He also explores how vulnerability can deepen connections, illustrating the 'beautiful mess effect' with relatable anecdotes about chaotic lives and friendships. Ultimately, he advocates for self-compassion as a path to happiness.

Join Dave DeSteno, a psychology professor and host of How God Works, as he chats with Dr. Laurie Santos about finding happiness during the often stressful holiday season. They explore the emotional challenges of winter festivities and the importance of adjusting expectations. Discover the uplifting power of giving and creating meaningful connections, plus practical strategies like gratitude journals and simple acts of kindness. Embrace holiday rituals to enhance joy and connection, ensuring this season is a fulfilling one.

Nick Epley, a behavioral science professor at the University of Chicago, joins to discuss the uplifting effects of giving. He shares transformative stories of how donations have improved lives in Kibobo, Rwanda. Epley highlights the deep psychological benefits of generosity, emphasizing that kindness fosters connection and enhances personal happiness. The conversation encourages listeners to adopt giving as a daily habit, underscoring how even small acts can create profound impacts on others and enrich our own lives.

Elie Hassenfeld, Co-founder and CEO of GiveWell, dives into the transformative power of charitable giving. He discusses how spending on others often brings more happiness than spending on oneself. The conversation highlights effective charities and the importance of transparency in philanthropy. They explore the psychological barriers to giving and the evolving landscape of charitable contributions. Hassenfeld shares insights on empowering individuals through targeted donations, showcasing how strategic giving can make a real difference.

Jessica Pan, author of "Sorry I'm Late, I Didn't Want to Come," shares her journey of transforming from a hardcore introvert to someone who embraces social interactions. She discusses the challenges of extreme shyness and her daring exposure therapy approach of engaging strangers. Listeners learn about the psychological benefits of stepping outside one's comfort zone, the power of genuine listening, and how meaningful connections can vastly improve well-being. Jessica highlights that anyone can cultivate extroverted traits for a richer life.

Tabitha Carvan, an author and devoted Benedict Cumberbatch fan, discusses the surprising emotional benefits of fandom. She shares personal anecdotes that reveal how embracing one’s passions can enhance happiness and self-discovery. The conversation explores the societal stigma around being a 'geek' and how deep connections with beloved franchises foster community and combat loneliness. Tabitha emphasizes that engaging wholeheartedly in fandom can be transformational, proving that what may seem trivial can lead to profound joy.

Actor Rob Lowe, famous for his 80s films and TV shows, joins Dr. Laurie to discuss the tricky nature of nostalgia. He loves reflecting on the past but warns against getting stuck there. They explore how our memories can be selectively skewed, often leading to poor decisions about future happiness. The conversation emphasizes the importance of living in the present and cherishing past experiences without letting them overshadow our current joy.

In this discussion, Amy Wrzesniewski, a Yale professor specializing in job crafting, shares insights into how individuals can reshape their work experiences to find deeper meaning and happiness. She emphasizes that viewing jobs through the lens of purpose rather than paycheck can lead to greater fulfillment. The conversation highlights the myth that higher salaries equate to job satisfaction and explores the significance of intrinsic rewards. Wrzesniewski also discusses the transformative impact of job crafting and how it can empower employees to cultivate joy in even the most unlikely roles.

In this celebration of five years, Dr. Laurie Santos chats with Don Wetzel, inventor of the ATM, who shares insights on technology's impact on human connection. Behavioral scientist Nick Epley discusses how fostering personal connections can enhance happiness amidst automation. David Byrne, renowned musician, emphasizes the joy found in interactions with strangers, challenging the loneliness that often comes with convenience. Together, they explore the hidden costs of solitude and advocate for revitalizing human engagement in our lives.