10% Happier with Dan Harris

Dolly Chugh, a professor at NYU Stern and author of "A More Just Future," delves into the complexities of being a patriotic citizen while acknowledging historical injustices. She discusses the 'patriot's dilemma' and concepts like home team bias and belief grief. The conversation emphasizes the 'paradox mindset,' encouraging listeners to embrace complexity in their beliefs and relationships. Chugh also challenges traditional narratives, urging us to rethink historical figures like Rosa Parks and advocate for a more just future.

In this engaging discussion, Jonathan Haidt, a renowned social psychologist and author from NYU, shares insights on happiness, morality, and the effects of social media. He talks about the value of acknowledging our own irrationality and the importance of embracing differing opinions. Haidt delves into historical patterns of societal crisis and renewal, emphasizing resilience in the face of adversity. He also highlights the alarming impact of overprotection and social media on young girls' mental health, offering practical strategies for navigating modern challenges.

Sujatha Baliga, a MacArthur Fellow and leader in restorative justice, shares her transformative journey from childhood trauma to forgiveness. She recounts her profound meeting with the Dalai Lama and how it spurred her healing process. Baliga emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and meditation in personal growth, and discusses how restorative justice can serve as a powerful alternative to traditional punitive systems. Her insights offer practical ways to navigate conflicts and cultivate compassion, inspiring others to rethink their approach to revenge.

La Sarmiento, a mentor for the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program and Vipassana meditation practitioner since 1998, shares insights on being judgmental. They discuss how mindfulness can help differentiate between discernment and harmful judgment. La reflects on the challenges of self-acceptance, offering practical questions to explore our judgments. The conversation emphasizes recognizing motivations behind our thoughts and encourages compassionate self-reflection, promoting healthier relationships with ourselves and others.

Florence Williams, a science journalist and author, explores the complexities of heartbreak and rejection, drawing from her own experiences after a 25-year marriage. She discusses the evolutionary roots of these emotional wounds, including the phenomenon of broken heart syndrome. The conversation covers various healing methods like meditation, therapy, and the power of nature. Williams emphasizes the significance of time and purpose in recovery, offering insights into reshaping personal narratives and the role of social connections in overcoming emotional pain.

Dr. Marisa G. Franco, a psychologist and professor at the University of Maryland, discusses the societal undervaluation of friendship compared to romantic love. She shares the impact of technology on relationships and explores how attachment styles shape our friendships. Franco highlights the importance of vulnerability in building connections, offers strategies to overcome loneliness, and emphasizes generosity in fostering meaningful relationships. She starkly reminds us of the devastating effects of isolation and the biological need for social connection.

Nedra Glover Tawwab, a licensed clinical social worker and author of "Drama Free," dives deep into the messy world of family dynamics. She shares her own experiences of dysfunction and explores concepts like enmeshment, codependency, and the importance of boundaries. Tawwab emphasizes the power of self-awareness in difficult relationships and discusses the pitfalls of toxic forgiveness. She encourages listeners to view family members as individuals and advocates for choosing supportive relationships that nurture personal growth.

Myisha Battle, a certified sex and dating coach and author of "This Is Supposed to Be Fun," shares her insights on love and relationships. She dives into five ways to enhance intimacy in partnerships while debunking the myth of finding 'the one.' Myisha discusses the often-confused dynamics of sex and intimacy, advocating for open communication and understanding between partners. She also addresses the orgasm gap and offers mindfulness tips for navigating modern dating, emphasizing genuine connections over societal pressures.

Spring Washam, a renowned teacher and author, discusses the profound connections we share with our ancestors. She explores her journey in writing about Harriet Tubman, emphasizing the importance of understanding family histories. Washam introduces concepts like Family Constellation Therapy, revealing how ancestral work can promote personal growth and healing. She also reflects on her spiritual experiences linked to Tubman's spirit, inspiring listeners to engage deeply with their own lineage for transformation and compassion in their lives.

Amber Tamblyn, an accomplished author, actress, and director, dives into the intriguing world of intuition. She argues that intuition is a trainable skill often overshadowed by overthinking. Discussing the gut/brain connection, she emphasizes the significance of tuning into our bodies. Tamblyn shares personal anecdotes, highlighting how intuition can impact decision-making and creativity. The conversation also touches on the societal tendency to prioritize rationality over instinct, advocating for a harmonious relationship with our inner voice and nature.