10% Happier with Dan Harris

Sebene Selassie, an author and meditation teacher, and Jeff Warren, co-author of Meditation for Fidgety Skeptics, dive deep into the transformative power of friendship in meditation. They discuss how meditating with friends can enhance one’s practice and help navigate the challenges of vulnerability in relationships. The duo also explore the fine line between authenticity and oversharing, offering advice for people pleasers. In a world dominated by social media, they emphasize building genuine connections and the importance of meaningful interactions for personal growth.

Adam Gazzaley, a renowned neurologist and founder of UCSF's Neuroscape, dives into the detrimental effects of distraction on our brains. He discusses how multitasking harms attention and memory, leading to heightened anxiety. Gazzaley explains the importance of cognitive control and shares practical strategies to regain it, like meditation. The conversation also touches on controversial technologies that could improve brain function and the healing power of music and rhythm in cognitive enhancement. Tune in for insights on navigating our technology-driven world.

Enjoy a short guided meditation focusing on compassion, equanimity, and loving-kindness. It helps deepen awareness of bodily sensations and encourages mindfulness in the present moment. Listeners can learn techniques to enhance concentration and connect with their physical feelings. The discussion includes upcoming events and guest teachers, offering insights into self-perception through meditation. A perfect blend for both novices and experienced meditators!

In this engaging discussion, Matthew Brensilver, a clinical social worker and skilled meditation retreat teacher, dives into the perplexities of self-hatred versus self-love. He challenges traditional views by exploring the illusion of the self and how this connects to ethics. Listeners learn the importance of self-compassion in personal growth and how emotions can lead to deeper understanding. Insights on embracing mortality, reconciling personal enjoyment with altruism, and fostering mindful relationships are also highlighted.

In this engaging discussion, clinical psychologist Ellen Hendriksen dives into the intricacies of perfectionism and its deep ties to anxiety. She shares her own struggles with perfectionism, offering insights on how to shift from self-criticism to self-compassion. Listeners will appreciate her practical strategies for maintaining high standards while embracing flexibility and mistakes. Ellen also explores the dangers of social comparison and emphasizes the importance of authenticity in personal growth, making this a must-listen for anyone seeking self-acceptance.

Mic Nguyen, a comedian and advertising professional, shares his struggle with regret over not pursuing a medical career. Joined by Amy Somerville, a social cognitive psychologist, they delve into the emotional complexities of regret and how it shapes identity. Mic reflects on the tension between personal dreams and family expectations, while Amy offers insights into the benefits of embracing regret for personal growth. Their candid conversation highlights the unique blend of humor and vulnerability in navigating life's choices and aspirations.

In a world that feels chaotic, the host shares practical tips for staying centered amidst political turbulence. Historical wisdom and Buddhist teachings offer insights into maintaining balance. Poetic imagery emphasizes the power of interconnectedness and the need for both caring action and healthy detachment. Discover how small, meaningful acts can foster personal wellness and community empowerment, providing light even in dark times. Plus, enjoy literary recommendations that blend meditation and creativity for deeper reflection.

Jenara Nerenberg, a journalist and author focused on neurodiversity, discusses critical thinking and self-expression. She tackles the dangers of groupthink and self-censorship, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability in social media discourse. Jenara also shares insights on engaging in honest conversations about sensitive topics, the role of comedy in challenging norms, and the necessity of diverse perspectives to enrich dialogue. Her latest book, 'Trust Your Mind,' serves as a guiding light in navigating these nuanced conversations.

Dr. Orna Guralnik, a psychoanalyst and writer known for her insights into Couples Therapy, delves into the liberating effects of understanding our past. She discusses how ancestral history influences present relationships and emotions, advocating for introspection to combat a split mindset. Guralnik also explores the connections between happiness and truth, the integration of Buddhist ideas in psychoanalysis, and offers a powerful question to reflect on when feeling annoyed, all aimed at fostering internal love and openness.

Glennon Doyle, a bestselling author and founder of Treat Media, joins two-time Olympic gold medalist Abby Wambach for a heartfelt conversation. They dive into their personal struggles and the messy realities of being self-help authors. The duo discusses trauma, grief, and the idea of family roles shaping who we are. They also share insights from their new collaborative book exploring fundamental life questions. Expect reflections on acceptance, the complexities of mental health, and an honest take on vulnerability and change.