10% Happier with Dan Harris

Dr. Amishi Jha, a psychology professor at the University of Miami and author of 'Peak Mind,' explores the science of attention and mindfulness. She discusses achieving a 'peak mind' to combat distractions and the importance of meta-awareness. Listeners will learn about mindfulness techniques, the distinction between multitasking and monotasking, and the impact of attention training in high-stress environments like the military. With insights on mind-wandering as a creative tool, Jha emphasizes fostering a healthier relationship with our thoughts.

Pascal Auclair, a seasoned teacher of Buddhist teachings and co-founder of True North Insight, dives into the transformative power of the five aggregates. He shares how these concepts can help us work through difficulties and embrace the impermanence of life. Listeners learn to pay attention to their feelings—pleasant, unpleasant, and neutral—and explore the path to liberation from attachment. Auclair emphasizes meditation as a means to deconstruct the self and cultivate mindful responses in daily life, ultimately enhancing emotional resilience.

Gretchen Rubin, a renowned author and podcaster famous for her bestseller The Happiness Project, discusses her upcoming year-long course to mark its 15th anniversary. She shares insights from her journey, emphasizing the importance of achieving personal happiness through self-knowledge and tailored initiatives. Topics include setting achievable goals, using accountability tools, and the 'Secrets of Adulthood' that enhance self-acceptance. Listeners can learn how to start their own happiness projects and explore practical exercises to boost their joy.

Evelyn Tribole, an award-winning registered dietitian and co-creator of Intuitive Eating, shares her insights on transforming food relationships. She discusses how meditation parallels intuitive eating and the crucial distinction between mindful and intuitive eating. Evelyn emphasizes the importance of gentle nutrition, the need to rethink negative body images, and how societal perceptions can misrepresent health. She advocates for a compassionate approach to food, encouraging listeners to savor their meals while challenging the stigma surrounding body size.

Nedra Glover Tawwab is a licensed therapist, relationship expert, and bestselling author known for her works on boundaries and emotional well-being. In this insightful discussion, she breaks down what boundaries truly are and why they matter. Tawwab shares her taxonomy of boundaries and offers practical strategies for establishing and respecting them. She emphasizes leading with love in tough conversations and highlights the importance of empathetic communication. Tune in for relatable tips on maintaining healthy relationships through clear boundaries!

Kelly Ripa, a longtime TV host and actress, shares captivating insights from her 30-year journey with ABC. She discusses the unique dynamics of working alongside her husband and the unexpected value of marriage counseling, even during good times. Ripa opens up about her fear of public speaking and her unconventional approaches to managing anxiety, preferring dance and running over meditation. She also addresses the liberating experience of aging in public, particularly during menopause, and highlights the importance of genuine connections amidst the pressures of the entertainment industry.

Sam Harris, a neuroscientist and philosopher, discusses his life after leaving Twitter and delves into the metaphysical aspects of meditation. Joined by his brother Matt, who’s new to meditation, they compare Vipassana and Dzogchen practices. Sam shares insights on 'looking for the looker' and explores the implications of meditation on consciousness and identity. They also ponder the possibility of psychic powers and the role of mindfulness in enhancing mental well-being, creating a fascinating interplay between philosophy and personal experience.

Tamar Gendler, Dean at Yale and a distinguished professor, dives into ancient Greek philosophy's relevance in modern life. She explores the tension between our animal instincts and intellectual aspirations. Gendler discusses how concepts like virtue and morality intertwine with happiness, drawing parallels to Buddhism. She shares insights on navigating life's complexities and the quest for meaningful connections, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and practical wisdom for personal growth.

Join renowned Buddhist monk Jack Kornfield and bestselling author Diego Perez, aka Yung Pueblo, as they dive into the art of meditation amid life's chaos. They explore how to handle conflict with compassion and the vital role of community in sustaining a meditation practice. Discover the balance between self-interest and altruism, and gain insights on loving without attachment. They also delve into personal growth through mindfulness and the transformative power of compassion in overcoming adversity.

A.J. Jacobs, a bestselling author and self-proclaimed "human guinea pig," shares his unique insights on approaching life's challenges through a "puzzle mindset." He discusses how viewing problems as puzzles can enhance creativity and persistence, and even help during tough times. Jacobs reveals the joy of problem-solving and the importance of gratitude in personal growth. He also dives into intriguing aspects of the puzzle world, from his own gratitude project to the benefits of maintaining a calm mindset amidst chaos.