10% Happier with Dan Harris

Johann Hari, a renowned journalist and best-selling author, discusses the transformative potential and troubling implications of new weight loss drugs like Ozempic. He likens their societal impact to that of the iPhone, emphasizing their controversial nature. The conversation navigates personal challenges with weight, the intricacies of body image, and the complex interplay between societal pressures and health. Hari also explores the risks and benefits, urging a compassionate understanding of obesity beyond mere medication.

Shannon Palus, features editor at Slate and expert in health and fitness, shares insights from her year-long exploration of exercise. She encourages a shift from rigid fitness standards towards a more enjoyable and personalized approach. Palus debunks the 10,000 steps myth as a marketing ploy and emphasizes the significance of mental well-being over metrics. She advocates for slow movement and a healthy self-image, addressing how societal factors impact personal health. Ultimately, she promotes intuitive exercise, embracing what feels good over what is conventionally expected.

T. Morgan Dixon, co-founder and CEO of GirlTrek, and Dr. Gary Bennett, distinguished dean and psychology expert, shed light on the science of motivation. They discuss overcoming inertia to form lasting habits and the vital role of community in achieving health goals. The conversation dives into the challenges of modern sedentary lifestyles and how initiatives like GirlTrek empower Black women through walking. They also share effective strategies for establishing accountability and connecting personal values with healthy behaviors.

Dan Buettner, an explorer and National Geographic Fellow, delves into the secrets of longevity from the famed Blue Zones, where people live exceptionally long and healthy lives. He discusses the 'Power Nine' lifestyle traits, debunking myths about foods like pasta and bread. Surprising insights reveal that the pursuit of health can backfire, while community connections emerge as crucial for longevity. Buettner offers practical tips for incorporating these wisdoms into daily life, emphasizing the importance of natural movement and purpose.

In a candid chat, DJ Cashmere, the managing producer of the podcast, shares his journey with fitness and well-being. He explores the struggle of maintaining a balanced approach to health amidst self-improvement pressures. The conversation highlights the power of self-compassion and flexibility in fitness goals. DJ also delves into intuitive eating, discussing how personal experiences shape healthier relationships with food. Listeners can look forward to fresh insights on longevity and community wellness from upcoming guests in their 'Get Fit Sanely' series.

Zindel Segal, a distinguished professor of psychology specializing in mood disorders, and Norman Farb, who directs a lab focusing on affective dynamics, dive into the brain's default mode network and its role in repetitive thought patterns. They introduce 'sense foraging'—a practice utilizing sensory engagement to combat overthinking. The conversation highlights how this technique parallels mindfulness, offering actionable strategies to enhance mental well-being. Additionally, they discuss embracing impermanence and the transformative potential of mindful awareness.

Dr. Bruce Perry, a renowned neurobiologist and trauma expert, joins co-interviewer Bianca Harris to discuss how reframing our questions can transform our understanding of trauma. They emphasize the shift from 'what's wrong with you?' to 'what happened to you?' as a path to healing. Topics include the impact of trauma on mental health, the role of empathy in personal growth, and the effectiveness of therapeutic approaches like EMDR. Perry's insights on community support and the dual nature of trauma provide a compassionate perspective on resilience and recovery.

Mia Birdsong, a culture change visionary and author, challenges conventional notions of success by emphasizing the importance of community and relationships. She shares her journey in redefining success, discussing the transformative power of mutual support and the intricate bond between friendship and freedom. Mia also explores how individualism can lead to isolation and the necessity of standing together for collective well-being. Her insights on asking for help and fostering genuine connections provide a refreshing perspective on achieving true fulfillment.

Sebastian Junger, an award-winning journalist and #1 New York Times bestselling author, shares his transformative near-death experience after a health crisis. He discusses the mysteries of consciousness and quantum physics, questioning the nature of life after death. The conversation highlights the importance of human connection, gratitude, and being present in our lives. Junger encourages finding awe in everyday moments, blending personal anecdotes with profound existential insights that challenge our understanding of existence.

Elaine Lin Hering, a former Harvard Law lecturer and communication expert, dives into the art of speaking up for oneself. She shares how societal pressures teach us silence and the importance of finding our voice. The conversation highlights practical strategies to communicate better in relationships while navigating the complexities of silence. Elaine outlines her four steps to assert yourself effectively and discusses the shared responsibility of fostering open dialogue. Tune in for insights on managing difficult conversations and enhancing interpersonal connections.