The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

Amy Blankson, author and chief evangelist at the Digital Wellness Institute, shares expert insights on achieving digital balance. She emphasizes the importance of intentional technology use and introduces the 'Really Rule' to assess screen time. Blankson discusses strategies to mitigate 'fubbing' in conversations and highlights the necessity of preserving in-person connections for mental health. The episode also offers practical advice to combat screen fatigue and encourages listeners to establish digital boundaries for a healthier work-life balance.

Karen Guggenheim, founder of the World Happiness Summit, shares her inspiring journey of transforming grief after losing her husband into a mission for spreading happiness. Clinical psychologist Edith Shiro discusses post-traumatic growth, explaining how trauma can lead to greater empathy and purpose. Both guests emphasize the importance of self-compassion and support systems, revealing how navigating adversity can enhance relationships and deepen one's appreciation for life. Discover how pain can evolve into purpose and resilience.

Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, a health education professor and the host of 'Feel Better, Live More', discusses how happiness is becoming a priority in the medical field. He emphasizes the deep connection between happiness and health, introducing a 'three-legged stool' model for well-being. The conversation covers the transformative power of self-compassion, the impact of daily habits, and the role of sensory experiences on our emotional states. Listeners are encouraged to reframe social interactions and embrace challenges as opportunities for personal growth.

Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, an Oxford economist and well-being expert, dives into the troubling decline of happiness among America's youth, especially post-COVID. He highlights alarming trends contrasting Gen Z's struggles with the rising joy seen in regions like Lithuania. The discussion includes the impact of social media on mental health and the urgent need for practical strategies to enhance community connection. De Neve also emphasizes innovative education approaches, advocating for happiness skills in curricula to empower young people toward a brighter future.

Emily Willroth, an assistant professor at Washington University in St. Louis, dives into the intriguing link between happiness and dementia. She discusses how social engagement, helping others, and fun physical activities can mitigate cognitive decline. With age as a risk factor, she emphasizes that happiness can serve as a protective factor against dementia. Willroth also highlights the importance of fostering supportive environments for older adults to enhance well-being, demonstrating that joy can indeed play a role in cognitive health.

John Helliwell, a Professor emeritus of economics at the University of British Columbia and a key figure behind the World Happiness Report, shares insights into what makes nations like Finland the happiest. He highlights the crucial blend of wealth, freedom, and social connections that contribute to happiness. The conversation also reveals how small changes in personal lives and communities can significantly elevate national well-being. Delve into generational trends and the importance of fostering kindness to enhance overall happiness.

Malcolm Gladwell, a master storyteller and author, shares how running in a Canadian winter can actually boost happiness. Maya Shankar discusses techniques like 'distance self-talk' to quiet mental chatter and enhance well-being. Tim Harford rounds out the conversation with surprising insights on happiness lessons derived from a colonoscopy. Together, they explore the complex interplay between joy, personal growth, and the transformative power of self-compassion.

In this engaging conversation, economist Tim Harford, known for his sharp insights and as the host of Cautionary Tales, explores the surprising happiness found in subtraction. He delves into the paradox of modern life where adding commitments can feel essential, yet doing less often leads to greater joy. Topics include the art of 'masterly inactivity' in decision-making, personal stories highlighting the benefits of prioritizing what matters, and practical tips for embracing a 'less is more' philosophy for overall well-being.

This week features Todd Baratz, a sex and relationships therapist and author of "How to Love Someone Without Losing Your Mind." He challenges the fairy tale notion of the perfect partner, advocating for the acceptance of 'good enough' relationships. Todd shares insights on how unrealistic expectations from media can sabotage our connections. He discusses navigating love post-long-term relationships and emphasizes the importance of emotional awareness and communication in fostering healthier dynamics. Todd makes a compelling case for embracing our partners' imperfections.

Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of "Super-Communicators," shares his insights on effective communication in relationships. He discusses how small changes can lead to deeper connections, emphasizing the importance of asking meaningful questions and active listening. Duhigg explores the characteristics of supercommunicators and how emotional intelligence enhances relationships. He also addresses the challenges of modern dating communication, offering strategies to navigate misunderstandings and fostering compassion in conflict.