10% Happier with Dan Harris

Sharon McMahon, a former high school government teacher and the voice behind "Here's Where It Gets Interesting," shares insightful strategies for navigating today's chaotic news landscape. She emphasizes the importance of a diverse media diet and how to avoid becoming ‘confidently wrong’ in discussions. McMahon advocates for compassion towards differing opinions and highlights that history can provide hope when times feel bleak. Finally, she inspires listeners with stories of everyday individuals sparking meaningful change through small actions.

Laurie Santos, a Yale professor and host of The Happiness Lab, unites the Titans of Happiness for a heartwarming exploration of mental wellness. Guests include bestselling author Gretchen Rubin and psychologist Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, who share practical strategies to combat loneliness and promote self-compassion. Elmo adds a playful touch, emphasizing connection and joy. The discussion also covers mindfulness techniques and the importance of being present, encouraging listeners to engage their senses and reduce tech distractions for better mental health.

Executive Producer DJ Cashmere interviews Kaira Jewel Lingo, a former nun, Vinny Ferraro, a veteran Dharma teacher, and Matthew Brensilver, who blends mindfulness with addiction insights. They explore effective ways to handle anger, both in others and within ourselves. Expect practical strategies grounded in mindfulness, the significance of clear communication, and heartfelt anecdotes emphasizing empathy and personal boundaries. Discover how embracing love alongside anger can transform relationships and lead to deeper understanding.

Amanda Ripley, a New York Times bestselling author and conflict resolution expert, dives into the dynamics of conflict in this engaging discussion. She distinguishes between healthy conflict and high conflict, offering five essential steps to navigate disputes effectively. Ripley shares the concept of 'looping'—a technique that fosters understanding—and warns against the pitfalls of humiliation in discourse. She also emphasizes the role of 'conflict entrepreneurs' in exacerbating tensions and highlights contact theory as a means to reduce prejudice through meaningful interactions.

Kaira Jewel Lingo, a former ordained Buddhist nun and meditation teacher, joins Valerie Brown, a former lawyer turned Dharma teacher, and Marisela Gomez, a physician and public health scholar. They discuss six transformative Buddhist practices for navigating life's chaos, particularly during the upcoming U.S. elections. The trio shares the valuable mindfulness technique of The Four Chairs for conflict resolution, the importance of transforming anger into compassion, and the power of journaling for personal growth and emotional clarity.

In this engaging discussion, Kasley Killam, an expert in social health and author of The Art and Science of Connection, delves into the crucial role of social connections in overall well-being. She highlights how strengthening our social 'muscles' can enhance both mental and physical health, sometimes even surpassing the benefits of exercise. Killam shares practical tips for identifying your social style and nurturing relationships, and explores the importance of vulnerability. She also discusses how societal structures and legislation can support these efforts for a healthier community.

Dr. Becky Kennedy, a clinical psychologist and mother of three, joins Dan Harris to explore the complexities of parenting and anxiety. They discuss how meditation can be an essential tool for parents, debunking the myth that you need to be 'good' at it. Dr. Becky shares practical mindfulness techniques tailored for busy parents, emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, and addresses the messy realities of personal growth. The conversation highlights how mindfulness fosters emotional regulation and enhances the parenting experience.

In this engaging conversation, Matthew Brensilver, an expert in addiction pharmacotherapy, Vinny Ferraro, a meditation teacher in prisons, and Kaira Jewel Lingo, a former nun, share profound insights on handling anger. They explore the roots of anger and the transformative power of mindfulness, offering practical strategies to accept and embrace this complex emotion. The guests emphasize that anger can be a catalyst for growth, reminding listeners of the importance of self-awareness and empathy in navigating their emotional landscapes.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, an Emmy Award-winning chief medical correspondent for CNN and practicing neurosurgeon, dives into the intriguing realm of brain health. He shares his personal journey into the world of neurosurgery and consciousness. Gupta outlines five essential pillars for brain health, emphasizing the power of movement and mindfulness. He discusses the role of social connections, the importance of vulnerability among men, and tips on meditation from the Dalai Lama. Tune in for insights that could transform your mental well-being!

Tara Brach, a legendary meditation teacher and author, shares her insights on navigating tumultuous times using Buddhist principles. She discusses the transformative Bodhisattva teachings that foster compassion and mindfulness, emphasizing their relevance in today's global crises. Tara introduces the RAIN technique for processing emotions and explains how letting distress serve as a portal can lead to action that mitigates anxiety. Her encouraging message highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in bridging divides, even amid societal polarization.