10% Happier with Dan Harris

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.

Join Sebene Selassie, a meditation teacher and author, along with Jeff Warren, co-host of the Consciousness Explorers podcast, as they delve into the community aspect of meditation. They share powerful personal stories about resilience, connection, and the impact of shared practices. The duo discusses the significance of vulnerability and authenticity in fostering deeper bonds, especially during challenging times. With humor and warmth, they encourage listeners to embrace the messiness of life and explore the enriching nature of collective meditation.

Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, a Harvard-trained neuroanatomist and author of "My Stroke of Insight," shares her profound journey following a severe stroke. She discusses how understanding the brain can enhance happiness and health. Listeners will learn about the distinct functions of the brain's left and right hemispheres, the burnout risks from over-relying on the left, and her innovative methods like "The Brain Huddle" for emotional balance. Dive into her insights on navigating emotions through the 90-second rule for a better mental toolkit.

In this engaging discussion, Vanessa Bohns, a social psychologist and Cornell professor, reveals how we often underestimate our own power of persuasion. She explores the discomfort of saying no and highlights the surprising impact of asking for favors in person. Bohns emphasizes the importance of personal connections over digital communication for true happiness. She also discusses the illusion of being unnoticed and the ethical responsibilities tied to influence, encouraging listeners to embrace their presence and awareness of their social impact.

Dr. Robert Waldinger, a Harvard psychiatrist and director of the longest scientific study on happiness, shares insightful lessons on well-being. He discusses the crucial role of social connections in achieving lasting happiness and why you can't be happy all the time. Waldinger emphasizes the idea of 'social fitness' and the importance of sharing worries rather than shouldering them alone. He also highlights the transformative power of friendships at work and reassures listeners that it’s never too late to find happiness.

Tony Hale, renowned for his roles in Veep and Arrested Development, joins Dr. Laurie Santos to explore the often elusive nature of happiness. They discuss the pitfalls of chasing future accomplishments, shedding light on the arrival fallacy. Hale reveals his own journey through anxiety and the transformative power of self-compassion. The duo emphasizes the importance of mindfulness, encouraging listeners to find joy in the present moment rather than constantly striving for more. It's a heartfelt conversation about embracing life's small pleasures.

Spencer Sherman, the founding CEO of Abacus and certified mindfulness teacher, shares transformative insights on merging Buddhism with finance. He discusses the Four Brahma Viharas for healthier money relationships and introduces the RAIN technique to alleviate financial anxiety. Sherman emphasizes the 'Enough Practice' for achieving equanimity and how generosity fosters a sense of abundance. He also explores the potential for ethical investing guided by personal values, encouraging listeners to cultivate self-compassion and a mindful approach to money.

Morgan Housel, author of 'The Psychology of Money' and partner at the Collaborative Fund, dives deep into the complex relationship between money and happiness. He distinguishes between being rich and being wealthy, emphasizing the importance of understanding what 'enough' truly means. Housel explains that financial success relies more on behavior than intelligence and shares how personal experiences shape our financial perspectives. The conversation encourages listeners to balance wealth with true contentment and manage expectations around money.

Richard Davidson, an eminent scientist and longtime confidant of the Dalai Lama, dives deep into the nuances of meditation. He shares insights on single-pointed versus analytical meditation, and the significance of subtle awareness in understanding consciousness. The discussion also highlights how mindfulness practices can be used throughout life and even in moments of death. Davidson breaks down complex terms to make the teachings accessible, emphasizing the transformative power of awareness and compassion in our everyday lives.

Joining the conversation is Richie Davidson, a renowned neuroscientist specializing in positive emotions and meditation, and a close collaborator with the Dalai Lama. Together, they delve into the complex idea of reincarnation, exploring how ancient Buddhist teachings intersect with modern neuroscience. The emotional impact of the Dalai Lama's compassion is palpable, with team members moved to tears during their encounter. The dialogue highlights the influence of compassion on genetics and personal happiness, setting the stage for deeper reflections on spirituality and human connection.