10% Happier with Dan Harris

Dr. Elizabeth Dunn, a psychology professor at the University of British Columbia, discusses how our spending habits impact happiness. She emphasizes prioritizing experiences over material goods for greater life satisfaction. Dunn critiques traditional happiness strategies, revealing their limitations while promoting the joy of giving through a unique social experiment. Additionally, she explores mindful spending and the benefits of 'buying time' to enhance well-being, leaving listeners with valuable insights on aligning finances with happiness.

Marissa Schneiderman, the Senior Editor of the podcast and collaborator on the newsletter, joins the conversation about risk-taking and experimentation. She shares insights from previous guests, emphasizing the significance of embracing discomfort for personal growth. The discussion includes the creative process behind the podcast's new format, exploring vulnerability and the balance between ambition and service. With personal anecdotes and reflections on learning from mistakes, it's an enlightening dive into the art of experimenting.

Lama Rod Owens is an authorized lama in the Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism and the author of "The New Saints." He delves into why he’s "no longer interested in being a good person" and emphasizes the importance of embracing imperfection. Discussions include characteristics of the 'New Saints,' self-care's role in spirituality, and how societal changes shape modern sainthood. Lama Rod also explores the connection between spiritual practices and social justice, urging listeners to honor personal needs while fostering community engagement.

Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist at Wharton and bestselling author, engages in a thought-provoking conversation about unlocking hidden potential through character skills. He emphasizes progress over performance, the value of accepting mistakes, and the importance of seeking discomfort. By sharing personal experiences, Grant illustrates how overcoming self-doubt can lead to significant personal growth. The discussion also touches on mentorship, constructive feedback, and innovative approaches to recognizing talent beyond traditional metrics.

Lisa Genova, a Harvard-trained neuroscientist and bestselling author, shares her expertise on memory and Alzheimer's disease. She distinguishes between normal forgetfulness and serious memory loss, and discusses the powerful role of meditation in brain health. Genova emphasizes the importance of sleep for memory retention, while debunking myths about brain games. She also offers practical advice on nutrition and exercise, highlighting essential nutrients for cognitive health. This engaging conversation sheds light on proactive strategies to support brain wellness.

Join Jon Kabat-Zinn, a pioneering Professor of Medicine emeritus and founder of the Center for Mindfulness, as he delves into the transformative power of mindfulness. He discusses its vital role in enhancing well-being and performance, advocating for a holistic approach to tackle global issues like climate change. The conversation highlights the importance of compassion and self-acceptance in navigating life's complexities, along with the significance of community and connection in fostering personal growth.

Krista Tippett, a Peabody Award-winning broadcaster and bestselling author, shares insights from her 20 years of interviewing on navigating the complexities of faith and love. She discusses embracing open questions and the importance of self-awareness in relationships. Tippett emphasizes the value of generative agency, especially in turbulent times, and the need to balance harsh realities with compassion and hope. Her reflections encourage listeners to engage with uncertainty while staying connected with their core values.

Dr. Mark Bertin, a developmental pediatrician and author specializing in ADHD, shares his insights on this often-misunderstood condition. He explains the distinctions between ADD and ADHD, including their subcategories. The conversation delves into whether ADHD is a modern phenomenon or has always existed. Dr. Bertin offers effective strategies for managing focus, beneficial for everyone, not just those with ADHD. He also emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in navigating the challenges of ADHD and improving executive function.

Shane Parrish, an entrepreneur and the mind behind Farnam Street, shares his journey from intelligence work to decision-making wisdom. He unveils his structured five-step process for better choices and distinguishes between decisions and mere choices. Parrish discusses how emotional states and social conformity can cloud judgment and emphasizes the need for mindfulness. Listeners gain insights into creating personal rules and accountability frameworks that enhance clarity and decision-making outcomes, aligning actions with authentic life goals.

Sharon Salzberg, a prominent meditation teacher and New York Times best-selling author, dives into the essence of living authentically. She discusses how to be your own best friend and the challenges of self-love within Buddhist teachings. Exploring the notion of receiving love, she emphasizes that it's often harder than giving it. Each topic unfolds the complexities of mindfulness, compassion, and genuine connections, especially post-pandemic. Sharon's insights redefine how we engage with ourselves and others, paving the way for deeper emotional awareness.