10% Happier with Dan Harris

Allison Williams, renowned for roles in HBO’s GIRLS and the film GET OUT, discusses the intersection of perfectionism and parenting. She shares insights on the 'friendship recession' among men and the importance of authentic connections as we age. The conversation touches on managing anxieties in parenthood and ensuring these don’t affect children. Williams also talks about the making of her upcoming film, M3GAN 2.0, and how horror often reflects our inner fears, making us confront the psychological battles we face in everyday life.

Brother Chân Pháp Hữu, a Zen monk trained by the renowned Thích Nhất Hạnh, shares personal insights on burnout, emphasizing that even monastics can feel overwhelmed. He discusses how modern busyness is often a response to emotions we want to avoid. Practical tools for combating burnout are shared, including mindfulness, the art of doing nothing, and creating healthy boundaries. Reflecting on mortality is presented as a unique way to gain perspective, while acceptance and self-kindness become crucial in dealing with stress and fostering personal growth.

PJ Vogt, host of the Search Engine podcast, teams up with psychiatrist Mark Epstein to explore the intriguing realm of psychic mediums. They discuss how many meditation teachers consult clairvoyants, blending skepticism with open-mindedness. Personal stories from their journeys reveal the balance between belief and doubt in spirituality. The conversation touches on psychic abilities, auras, and the comforting role of spirit guides, ultimately inviting listeners to reflect on their own perceptions of the supernatural.

Brother Pháp Lưu, an ordained monk in the Plum Village tradition, shares insights on mindful eating that can enhance your relationship with food. He discusses the importance of tuning into hunger cues and transforming meals into meaningful rituals. The episode highlights communal dining's power to build connections and combat loneliness, alongside practices inspired by Buddhist traditions. By fostering gratitude and awareness in eating, he encourages listeners to rethink their food choices and embrace the joy of eating mindfully.

T. Morgan Dixon, Founder of GirlTrek, leads a health movement for Black women, while Dr. Gary Bennett, Dean at Duke University, specializes in psychology and neuroscience. Together, they explore motivation, emphasizing the importance of community in sustaining healthy habits. They delve into strategies for overcoming inertia, finding your 'why,' and the impact of social connections on well-being. Draped in personal anecdotes, they share how grassroots initiatives and self-reflection can ignite a more active lifestyle, pushing past psychological barriers.

Jeff Krasno, co-founder and CEO of Commune and author of Good Stress, dives into how to embrace 'good stress' for better health. He shares practical strategies for integrating beneficial stress and discusses the pitfalls of modern convenience on well-being. Krasno reveals his personal battles with chronic health issues and emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with nature, along with fasting and mindful practices. The conversation also explores the balance between comfort and health, inspired by Eastern philosophies, for a more resilient lifestyle.

Spring Washam, a pioneering mindfulness teacher and author, explores the profound connection between ancestry and personal identity. She shares her journey of writing about Harriet Tubman, highlighting the importance of ancestral wisdom. Spring discusses her experiences with plant medicine and Family Constellation Therapy, emphasizing how understanding our lineage can lead to emotional healing. Additionally, she introduces the concept of the 'inner underground railroad,' drawing parallels between Tubman's legacy and modern spiritual liberation.

In this engaging discussion, Kelly Starrett, a physical therapist and co-author of 'Built to Move', dives into the importance of mobility for overall fitness and health. He shares insights on how maintaining hip range of motion can drastically enhance daily activities and reduce chronic pain. Listeners hear a personal recovery journey that emphasizes proactive rehabilitation and relationship building with therapists. The sit and rise test is highlighted as a vital tool for assessing mobility, encouraging simple practices to enhance long-term well-being.

Bonnie Tsui, a New York Times contributor and bestselling author of "Why We Swim," explores the powerful connection between muscle strength and mental health. She discusses how strength training can enhance emotional well-being and longevity, breaking societal beauty standards along the way. Bonnie shares personal stories, the science behind muscle impact on the brain, and practical tips for starting a strength training journey. She emphasizes that it's never too late to recognize your physical potential and cultivate resilience through movement.

Dr. Robynne Chutkan, a renowned gastroenterologist and author of several bestselling books, delves into the fascinating link between gut health and mental well-being. She discusses how the microbiome affects mood and offers practical tips for improving digestive health without falling for gimmicks. Listeners learn about the significance of diet, the hazards of overusing supplements, and the importance of listening to your body's natural cues. Plus, she humorously explains why examining your stool can be a window into your overall health!