10% Happier with Dan Harris

Kaira Jewel Lingo, a Dharma teacher and author, shares her journey of blending spirituality with social justice. She discusses how to navigate life's inevitable turbulence using ten practical Buddhist strategies. Themes of mindfulness, gratitude, and acceptance come to life through her personal anecdotes. Lingo encourages embracing impermanence as a way to foster resilience and inner peace. Her insights reveal that becoming fully present can deepen our connections and transform our challenges into growth opportunities.

Maya Shankar, a cognitive scientist, former Senior Advisor in the Obama White House, and host of 'A Slight Change of Plans,' dives into the perplexities of handling uncertainty. She discusses why humans struggle with change and the pitfalls of seeking cognitive closure. Shankar shares insights on cultivating resilience through an open mindset, the art of self-auditing during transitions, and the importance of flexibility in personal identity. Her enlightening perspective on storytelling as a tool for understanding uncertainty brings a refreshing approach to adapting in a constantly changing world.

In this conversation, comedian Taylor Tomlinson, known for her Netflix specials and hosting CBS's 'After Midnight,' shares her journey with fear as a driving force behind her success. She recounts hilarious personal anecdotes, including an embarrassing incident with a magnetic nose ring, and explores growing up in a strict religious environment. Taylor dives into deeper themes of self-sabotage, the search for validation, and the emotional complexities of losing loved ones, all while maintaining a lighthearted and relatable tone.

Ethan Nichtern, a contemporary Buddhist teacher and author of "Confidence: Holding Your Seat through Life’s Eight Worldly Winds," shares insights on cultivating genuine confidence. He discusses the balance between humility and self-assurance, offering practical Buddhist techniques to boost resilience. The conversation explores the complexities of identity, the interplay of pleasure and pain, and how mindfulness can transform experiences. Nichtern also delves into the importance of self-compassion in navigating praise and blame, encouraging listeners to find meaning in their challenges.

In this engaging conversation, Maria Popova, the creator of The Marginalian and author of Figuring, shares her insights on the pursuit of meaning through wonder. She discusses how our daily habits can stifle awe and suggests strategies to cultivate joy in our lives. The conversation delves into the importance of intellectual humility, embracing uncertainty, and the relationship between wonder, love, and community. Maria also shares reflections on her new book, highlighting the blend of science and poetry as a path towards deeper connections and understanding.

Rachel Martin, co-creator and host of the podcast Wild Card, is a veteran NPR journalist with a rich background in news reporting. In this engaging conversation, she discusses the emotional toll of covering major events and her shift to a more introspective career. They dive into the challenges of adult grief, insomnia, and the importance of meditation for mindfulness. Rachel also shares insights on navigating life's big questions through her new podcast, blending humor and vulnerability while embracing change and exploring the vastness of existence.

Anna Marie Tendler, an artist and writer, shares her candid journey of navigating mental health challenges, including her experiences in a psychiatric hospital. She discusses the often painful disconnect between inner feelings and how the world perceives us. Tendler reflects on the impact of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and the complexities of gender dynamics in her life. She emphasizes the importance of sitting with discomfort, embracing authenticity, and understanding the emotional toll of societal expectations.

Dive into strategies for handling election-induced anxiety, including mindfulness and self-care techniques. Learn how mental training can cultivate peace and gratitude in turbulent times. Discover the power of loving-kindness meditation to foster connection and improve communication during challenging conversations. Explore self-compassion as a vital tool for coping with stress and reflect on your needs to navigate this chaotic political climate. Balance mental clarity with kindness and foster an open mind throughout the election season.

Join Jeff Tweedy, the lead singer and songwriter of Wilco, as he dives deep into music's transformative power. He shares personal stories of alienation from his small-town upbringing and how they shape his songwriting. The conversation weaves through the intersections of music, identity, and emotional authenticity. Tweedy candidly discusses a panic attack triggered by weed, exploring the concepts of ego death and spirituality. His insights on life's challenges and connections through music are both moving and thought-provoking.

Common, an Oscar and Grammy-winning artist, discusses his journey to self-worth and the impact of rejection as an artist. He dives into the four pillars of wellness from his book 'And Then We Rise,' emphasizing food, body, mind, and soul. The transformative power of therapy and meditation in his life takes center stage, highlighting vulnerability in hip-hop and personal growth. Common also reflects on the evolution of the genre toward authenticity and addresses the connection between spirituality and music in fostering healing.