10% Happier with Dan Harris

Sebene Selassie, a writer and meditation leader, joins Jeff Warren, a dynamic meditation instructor, for an engaging conversation on mindfulness. They explore the notion of 'failed meditators' and discuss how to navigate anxiety and grief with compassion. The duo emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in meditation and the value of community support. They also share practical meditation tips tailored for parents, encouraging quick mindful moments within family life. Their insights on connecting with emotions provide a relatable guide for personal growth.

Meditation teacher Jeff Warren, known for making meditation accessible to all, guides listeners through two unique approaches to attention during a live session. He discusses the power of mindfulness in shaping experiences and shares techniques to cultivate calm awareness. Warren and his co-hosts reflect on their personal journeys with meditation, highlighting the balance between goals and acceptance of distractions. The conversation invites listeners to navigate the ups and downs of practice while embracing meditation as an enriching lifelong journey.

Dr. Jamil Zaki, a Stanford psychology professor and author of 'The War for Kindness', explores the dangers of cynicism and its adverse effects on health and relationships. He shares his journey as a 'recovering cynic' and introduces the concept of 'hopeful skepticism' as a healthier alternative. Zaki provides practical advice on recognizing cynicism in ourselves and navigating constructive disagreements. He emphasizes the importance of promoting trust and empathy, especially in the younger generation, to counter the negativity pervasive in society.

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.