The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

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.

Laurie Santos, a cognitive scientist and Yale psychology professor known for her popular happiness course, joins Frances Frei and Anne Morriss to explore workplace happiness. They discuss the concept of time famine and the critical need for best friends at work. The conversation highlights how fostering connections and recognition can dramatically boost employee satisfaction. They also emphasize the role of employers in supporting well-being, offering actionable strategies to transform any workplace into a happier environment.

Dan Harris, former ABC News anchor and author of 10% Happier, joins to reveal insights on workplace happiness and mindfulness. They discuss the dual nature of work, exploring how to manage stress and find fulfillment. Harris emphasizes self-care and altruism as key elements in improving workplace dynamics. Techniques like cognitive diffusion help listeners navigate emotions effectively, while fostering joy for others combats jealousy. Ultimately, cultivating a supportive work environment enhances both employee happiness and overall productivity.

Dan Harris, a former news anchor and author of 10% Happier, joins Dr. Laurie Santos to explore the art of dealing with career setbacks. He shares his own experience of having a panic attack live on air, reflecting on how such humbling moments can lead to personal growth. The conversation emphasizes embracing failure as a necessary step toward self-discovery and resilience. They advocate for cultivating a growth mindset, prioritizing self-compassion, and learning to view failures as essential learning experiences in our professional journeys.

In a special World Mental Health Day discussion, Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a clinical psychologist known for her 'Therapy for Black Girls' podcast, highlights the importance of social connections in overcoming loneliness. Gretchen Rubin, a best-selling author focused on happiness, shares insights on self-compassion and managing stress through mindfulness. Dan Harris, a former anchor and host of '10% Happier', emphasizes the healing power of pets and the need for emotional outreach in communities. Together, they provide practical strategies for enhancing well-being and fostering happiness.

Jamil Zaki, a psychology professor and author of 'Hope for Cynics,' discusses the science behind human goodness. Katie Fahey, a grassroots organizer from Michigan, shares her inspiring journey from a recycling worker to leading a successful campaign against gerrymandering. They explore how engaging in civic action not only combats cynicism but also enhances personal happiness. With stories of creative maladjustment and community connection, they encourage listeners to turn frustration into meaningful change and reclaim their role in democracy.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Jamil Zaki, a Stanford professor and expert in human connection, shares insights on bridging divides in a polarized world. He reveals how our perceptions often exaggerate disagreements, encouraging listeners to approach conversations with empathy and understanding. The duo discusses the importance of personal storytelling and open dialogue in overcoming ideological rifts. Zaki emphasizes that, despite differences, many core values unite us, offering hope for constructive communication and connection.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Dr. Jamil Zaki, a psychology professor and author of *Hope for Cynics*, debunks the myth that ruthlessness leads to success. He highlights how cooperation and kindness, as seen in both human and animal behaviors, can pave the way for happiness. Delving into the life of mutual aid advocate Peter Kropotkin, Zaki contrasts these ideas with social Darwinism. He shares compelling examples, such as altruism during crises, and advocates for empathetic leadership in business, proving that compassion can be a powerful strategy for resilience and fulfillment.