10% Happier with Dan Harris

Join Matthew Hepburn, a meditation teacher with a decade of experience, as he leads students through real discussions about meditation's impact on daily life. They explore how meditation can boost bravery at work and improve relationships with practical undercover practices. Matthew reveals that emotional openness is key, especially in tough conversations, while emphasizing the importance of confronting fear. Listeners gain insights on finding meaning in everyday annoyances and the crucial elements that can sabotage one's meditation practice.

Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, an ordained Zen priest and author, shares her wisdom on navigating chaos and uncertainty in life. She discusses the transformative power of disruption, emphasizing that embracing change can lead to personal growth. Zenju introduces the concept of a ‘sip of silence’ and explores the idea of 'death as a doorway to tenderness,' urging listeners to embrace vulnerability. She highlights the simplicity of love as a means to address life's challenges while challenging conventional notions of tenderness.

Carole Robin, a former leadership lecturer at Stanford, and David Bradford, an emeritus senior lecturer in leadership, share insights from their bestselling book on exceptional relationships. They explore the six hallmarks of strong connections and the importance of honest communication, emphasizing vulnerability and emotional awareness. Listeners learn about the '15% rule' for safe self-disclosure, the significance of asking about feelings, and how meditation can enhance interpersonal dynamics. Their engaging discussion unveils practical strategies for nurturing deeper, more meaningful relationships.

In this conversation, Jay Michaelson, a meditation teacher, rabbi, and environmental activist, tackles the urgent issue of eco-anxiety. He argues that individual habit changes often fall short in addressing climate change, emphasizing the need for collective political action. Michaelson shares effective meditation techniques to manage eco-anxiety while encouraging listeners to engage in meaningful activism. He also discusses how mindfulness can foster constructive dialogue around climate issues, even among skeptics.

In this engaging conversation, Andreas Weber, a Berlin-based philosopher and biologist known for his book 'Matter & Desire', introduces the concept of 'erotic ecology'. He argues for a loving relationship with nature, contrasting it with the traditional utilitarian view. Weber discusses how nurturing these emotional ties can combat climate despair and create transformative healing. He emphasizes love as a foundational principle of reality and the importance of connecting deeply with the environment for personal happiness and ecological awareness.

Nancy Sherman, a Professor of Philosophy at Georgetown University and author of "Stoic Wisdom: Ancient Lessons for Modern Resilience," dives into the depths of Stoicism. She clarifies common misconceptions about the philosophy, emphasizing emotional awareness over suppression. Sherman shares practical techniques like the 'premeditation of evils' and highlights the importance of vulnerability and community. Discussions on resilience through emotional connection and managing impulsive reactions further reveal how Stoicism can enhance daily life.

Scott Barry Kaufman, a cognitive scientist and humanistic psychologist, dives deep into the essence of being a 'whole person.' He explores self-actualization, emphasizing the balance between strengths and vulnerabilities. The conversation touches on the importance of authenticity versus pseudo-authenticity, and how empathy can be nurtured through understanding diverse perspectives. Kaufman also highlights the transformative power of mindfulness in managing anxiety and perfectionism, promoting a richer journey of personal growth and fulfillment.

Michael Pollan, a best-selling author and co-founder of the UC Berkeley Center for the Science of Psychedelics, dives into the fascinating interplay between psychedelics and meditation. He shares insights on how these experiences may enhance self-understanding and consciousness. Pollan discusses personal experiences with opium, caffeine, and mescaline, and addresses the potential of these practices in mental health treatment for issues like depression and PTSD. The conversation emphasizes the importance of safe usage and community in exploring these transformative substances.

Dilip Jeste, a Distinguished Professor of Psychology at UC San Diego and author of "Wiser," shares insights on the evolving nature of happiness and wisdom as we age. He discusses how wisdom contributes to our emotional regulation and societal value, even as physical health declines. Jeste emphasizes practical strategies for cultivating wisdom now, through self-reflection and embracing diverse experiences. The conversation also tackles loneliness, the power of volunteering, and the imperative to prioritize wisdom and compassion in our lives.

Suleika Jaouad, a journalist, author, and cancer survivor, shares her transformative journey after a leukemia diagnosis at a young age. She discusses how she navigated intense uncertainty and the emotional toll of illness while striving for creativity and self-advocacy. Through her writing, she connects deeply with others, highlighting the healing power of words and therapy. Jaouad emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and authenticity in the face of challenges, turning her battle into a source of inspiration.