10% Happier with Dan Harris

Alua Arthur, a former attorney turned death doula and founder of Going With Grace, shares profound insights about embracing mortality. She discusses how contemplating death can serve as a powerful motivator and stress reliever, leading to a more fulfilling life. Alua recounts her transformative journey from law to guiding others through end-of-life conversations, emphasizing authenticity and healing. Listeners learn practical methods for discussing death, fostering deeper connections, and cultivating appreciation for each fleeting moment.

In a captivating discussion, Arthur Brooks, a Harvard professor and happiness expert, delves into the art and science of happiness. He debunks common myths, emphasizing that genuine fulfillment arises from facing challenges rather than seeking fleeting pleasures. Arthur outlines the 'macronutrients' of happiness and explores the complexities of ambition, envy, and emotional management. His insights, drawn from personal experiences and his recent collaboration with Oprah Winfrey, provide practical tools for cultivating meaning and joy in everyday life.

Myisha Battle, a certified sex and dating coach and author of "This Is Supposed to Be Fun," dives deep into the myths surrounding romantic relationships. She challenges the 'You complete me' mindset, arguing it creates feelings of incompleteness. Battle discusses the importance of understanding intimacy beyond just sex, the orgasm gap, and modern dating challenges, including the impact of dating apps. She also emphasizes cultivating emotional connections and navigating societal pressures while seeking authentic relationships.

Dr. Gabor Maté, a bestselling author and expert on stress and addiction, dives into the hidden societal stressors impacting our health. He critiques the concept of 'normal' in modern life, linking it to rising issues like addiction and autoimmune conditions. Maté emphasizes the importance of understanding trauma, not just the big events, but the everyday wounds we face. He advocates for a trauma-informed approach to health and hints at the healing potential of psychedelics, urging listeners to rethink how societal factors affect well-being.

David Nichtern, a seasoned meditation teacher and author, discusses integrating Buddhist principles into the workplace. He believes that business can be a spiritual practice, advocating for harmony between creativity, spirituality, and financial success. The conversation touches on themes like vulnerability in professional settings, how mindfulness enhances self-awareness, and the balance between personal value and career choices. With personal anecdotes, Nichtern encourages listeners to embrace compassion and flexibility to navigate challenges in their professional journeys.

Michael Gervais, a high-performance psychologist and host of the Finding Mastery podcast, dives into the fear of other people's opinions (FOPO) and how it stifles authenticity. He explains the evolutionary roots of this fear and proposes strategies like imagination and meditation to combat it. Gervais also advocates for a shift from a performance-based to a purpose-driven identity. Through anecdotes and personal insights, he highlights the power of community, journaling, and vulnerability in fostering self-acceptance and personal growth.

Christina Wallace, a senior lecturer at Harvard Business School and angel investor, shares her insights on achieving a balanced approach to career and life. She introduces the concept of a 'portfolio life,' blending work, relationships, and passions without succumbing to burnout. Topics include designing a fulfilling career, embracing failure as a learning opportunity, and practical time management tips. Christina also discusses the importance of resilience in today's job market, encouraging listeners to reflect and craft their unique paths.

In this discussion, Cal Newport, a Georgetown University professor and bestselling author, shares insights on 'slow productivity' as a remedy for burnout. He critiques modern overload culture, emphasizing that true productivity is about quality, not just busyness. Newport outlines three tenets: do fewer things, work at a natural pace, and obsess over quality. He also offers practical strategies for managing work without feeling overwhelmed, arguing that embracing a slower approach can lead to greater satisfaction and creativity.

In this illuminating conversation, Matt Harris, a partner at Bain Capital Ventures and brother of Dan Harris, shares his insights on the balance of mindfulness and a busy life. He provides practical tips for integrating meditation into everyday routines while navigating the challenges of ego. The discussion touches on the importance of awareness, self-discovery, and the impact of living an examined life. With humor and honesty, Matt reflects on his journey and offers advice on adopting a more mindful approach, emphasizing the need for flexibility and presence.

Join Joseph Goldstein, co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society and a renowned meditation teacher, as he dives deep into karma and rebirth. He explains why karma isn't a rigid force dictating our lives and discusses the intriguing connection between it and free will. Goldstein shares his personal journey of embracing these complex concepts over time, advocating for a compassionate approach to mindfulness. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the fluid nature of consciousness on the path to enlightenment.