The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

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.

Join relationship experts John Gottman and Julie Schwartz Gottman as they unravel the art of arguing better. They discuss the importance of confronting conflict honestly rather than avoiding it. Listeners learn how unmet needs and past traumas can shape misunderstandings. The Gottmans share strategies to foster empathy and tackle grievances effectively, emphasizing the importance of addressing issues individually. They also highlight the role of compromise and accepting influence to strengthen trust and connection, all vital for relationship happiness.

In this engaging discussion, relationship experts John and Julie Schwartz Gottman share insights from their extensive research on romantic partnerships. They introduce the Four Horsemen framework to identify destructive behaviors and suggest strategies for healthy conflict resolution. The couple emphasizes the power of curiosity and gratitude in deepening emotional connections. With anecdotes and practical advice, they encourage couples to engage in meaningful conversations and explore their needs, proving that understanding and communication are key to lasting love.

In this engaging talk, neuroscientist Rachel Herz, an expert in the sense of smell and author of 'The Scent of Desire', unpacks the fascinating link between scents and our emotions. She reveals how certain odors, even those deemed unusual, can trigger happiness and fond memories. Herz discusses cultural differences in scent perception and its remarkable influence on attraction and well-being. The conversation also highlights techniques to enhance our sense of smell for better mental health, emphasizing its importance in our daily lives.