The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

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.

Adam Aron, a neuroscientist turned climate activist, shares his transformational journey from balancing a scientific career with environmental concerns to dedicating himself to climate action. He discusses how engaging in activism has brought him happiness and fulfillment, emphasizing that even small contributions can enhance our sense of connection and well-being. The conversation touches on the urgency of the climate crisis, navigating skepticism, and the empowering role of grassroots advocacy in inspiring community change and personal engagement.

Join Liz Dunn, a behavioral scientist specializing in the intersection of climate change and well-being, as she reframes our approach to sustainability. She explores how positive emotions can lead to meaningful environmental actions, showing that being eco-friendly doesn't mean sacrificing fun. Discover simple strategies for mindful eating and travel that enhance joy while reducing our carbon footprint. Plus, learn how small lifestyle changes can foster community engagement and redefine our relationship with the planet.

In this enlightening discussion, Harvard psychologist Dan Gilbert dives into why climate change fails to trigger our alarm systems. He explains the psychological barriers that make us apathetic toward long-term threats, contrasting that with our instinctual reactions to immediate danger. Gilbert offers insights on harnessing human psychology to inspire climate action, emphasizing the power of social emulation and framing environmental issues in relatable terms. He also highlights how meaningful strategies can enhance our well-being while addressing climate challenges.

Tim Harford, an economist and author known for his insights on behavioral economics, joins Dr. Laurie Santos for an intriguing discussion. They delve into the historical impact of Stalin's regime on weekends, showcasing how enforced work schedules can undermine happiness. The conversation highlights the joy of giving, the significance of collective time off, and innovative approaches to rest in modern work cultures. They also explore the link between scheduled leisure and mental health, alongside Denmark’s model of work-life balance and its positive effects on community engagement.

Join social scientist and Harvard professor Arthur Brooks as he chats with Oprah about the keys to happiness. They dive into the Four Pillars of Happiness: Faith, Family, Friends, and Work that Serves. Brooks introduces the concept of 'emotional caffeine' for boosting joy and the importance of deep connections over superficial social media interactions. They also emphasize metacognition as a powerful tool for emotional well-being, encouraging self-reflection to enhance personal happiness and tackle life's challenges.

Dr. Laurie Santos, a Yale professor and creator of a popular happiness course, joins U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy to tackle the happiness crisis among Gen Z. They discuss how societal pressures and social media distort priorities, leading to a focus on grades over well-being. The conversation emphasizes the need for genuine connections and intrinsic rewards. Insights into mindfulness drawn from monkeys highlight the importance of being present and nurturing kindness in a distracted world.

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Laurie Santos, a Yale psychology professor, delves into our complex relationship with food. She discusses how food has shifted from a survival necessity to a source of anxiety in modern life. The talk covers topics like the impact of diet culture on our enjoyment of eating, the disconnect between cravings and true satisfaction, and the roles of marketing in shaping our food choices. Dr. Santos emphasizes the importance of mindful eating to foster a healthier relationship with what we consume.