10% Happier with Dan Harris

In an insightful conversation, bestselling author and meditation advocate Dan Harris shares his journey from skepticism to embracing meditation. He discusses the importance of navigating negative emotions and fostering self-compassion, revealing strategies for personal growth. Dan highlights love as a skill that can be developed, emphasizing effective communication in relationships. He also opens up about his experiences with panic and anxiety, alongside the transformative power of travels with his child, underscoring the non-linear path to happiness.

Bruce Feiler, a bestselling author known for his insights on transitions and finding meaning, discusses how modern work has evolved. He highlights the concept of a ‘workquake’ and explains why many of us juggle multiple roles. Feiler introduces the 'meaning audit'—a self-reflection tool to redefine success based on personal values. He emphasizes the shift driven by Millennials and Gen Z towards fulfilling careers, encouraging listeners to embrace non-linear paths and adapt to life’s changes for deeper satisfaction.

Liz Fosslien and Mollie West Duffy are experts in workplace emotions and co-authors of insightful books on emotional intelligence. They discuss the importance of acknowledging emotions like envy and anger for better decision-making. Strategies for fostering psychological safety within teams are explored, along with signs of burnout and the significance of balancing work with personal fulfillment. Their engaging conversation emphasizes creating a supportive workplace culture and offers practical advice for improving emotional well-being at work.

Matthew Hepburn, a seasoned meditation and dharma teacher with over a decade of experience, shares his insights on navigating workplace challenges. He discusses how to change your relationship with your thoughts, manage overwhelm, and handle feedback with grace. Hepburn highlights the importance of mindfulness and emotional intelligence in fostering healthy workplace dynamics. With humor and authenticity, he encourages listeners to embrace uncertainty and cultivate genuine connections for a more fulfilling work life.

Simone Stolzoff, a designer and author of The Good Enough Job, dives into the idea that our work doesn't have to define us. He advocates for the 'good enough job' mindset, where fulfillment comes not just from career success but also from diversifying our sources of identity. Stolzoff challenges the myth of the dream job and emphasizes the importance of balancing ambition with personal values. He encourages engaging in passion projects and hobbies that foster joy, redefining self-worth beyond professional achievements.

Diana Winston, Director of Mindfulness Education at UCLA, shares her extensive experience in mindfulness, having practiced since 1989 and even spent a year as a Buddhist nun. She discusses the true essence of mindfulness, emphasizing the need for acceptance and curiosity over judgment. Listeners learn how to break free from self-judgment, navigate difficult emotions, and cultivate self-compassion. Winston also highlights the connection between mindfulness, happiness, and personal growth, along with practical tips for integrating mindfulness into everyday life.

In this lively discussion, Sebene Selassie, a meditation teacher and author, joins Jeff Warren, co-author of a book for those skeptical of meditation. They dive into the enchantment of spirituality and personal growth, sharing personal tattoos that signify their meditation journeys. The conversation explores intuition, the balance between effort and ease in creativity, and the intriguing concept of binaural beats for mental well-being. They also touch on the interplay of astrology and storytelling, enhancing understanding of human nature.

Linda Åkeson McGurk, a Swedish-American writer and author of "There's No Such Thing As Bad Weather," dives into the healing power of nature. She uncovers the Scandinavian tradition of friluftsliv, emphasizing its benefits for mental health and resilience. McGurk shares why we should embrace the outdoors, rain or shine, and the rising trend of cold plunging. She also highlights how meditation and nature appreciation complement each other, offering innovative strategies for integrating nature into everyday life.

In this insightful discussion, Tim Ryan, a former U.S. Congressman from Ohio and an advocate for mindfulness, shares his journey from politics to personal growth. He reveals how meditation and breathwork helped him navigate the stresses of a tough political campaign. Ryan candidly discusses the reality of conceding a race, the freedom of stepping away from the political spotlight, and the lessons on handling difficult personalities. He even touches on the ice bath craze and its surprising benefits for mental clarity and resilience.

In this engaging discussion, Malcolm Gladwell, renowned author and podcast host, shares insights on the importance of flow states and lifelong pursuits. He reflects on facing backlash from his work-from-home comments, emphasizing the need to filter out social media noise. Gladwell also highlights lessons in kindness derived from his podcast, advocating for personal sacrifice and community service. Additionally, he explores how athletes balance mental health and performance through relaxation techniques, all while navigating the complexities of modern social interactions.