10% Happier with Dan Harris

Sonya Renee Taylor, author and founder of The Body is Not An Apology, discusses the transformative power of radical self-love. She challenges societal norms and explores how embracing self-acceptance can combat self-loathing. The conversation delves into the innate joy of childhood, overcoming body shame, and the role of community in fostering self-compassion. Taylor envisions a world rooted in love, where compassion replaces aggression, encouraging listeners to cultivate a nurturing relationship with themselves.

Koshin Paley Ellison, an author and Zen priest, discusses the pitfalls of modern life, likening it to 'Zombieland' where screen addiction dilutes genuine connection. He emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in building meaningful relationships and shares tips on fostering intimacy through exercises like eye contact. Ellison also highlights the role of meditation in enhancing emotional resilience and the journey of self-reflection for deeper bonds. His insights encourage listeners to escape the mindless chase for dopamine and cultivate authentic human interactions.

Roman Mars, host of the beloved podcast '99% Invisible' and bestselling author, explores the hidden joys in everyday design. He shares how seemingly mundane objects and infrastructure carry rich stories and emotions. Mars discusses the significance of design as a form of communication, the unseen influences shaping our environments, and the importance of embracing gratitude for these elements. He also emphasizes the adaptability of urban wildlife and the role of mindful observation in enhancing our connection to the world around us.

Michael Slepian, an Associate Professor of Leadership and Ethics at Columbia Business School, dives into the intricate world of secrets. He reveals that people typically carry about 13 types of secrets, which can significantly impact mental and physical health. The conversation explores the toll of secrecy on relationships and authenticity, the differences in how genders handle secrets, and the vital role of trust when confiding. Slepian also discusses societal pressures that perpetuate secrecy and the transformative power of shared experiences.

Christiane Wolf, a physician turned mindfulness and compassion teacher, discusses the transformative power of meditation in managing both physical and psychological pain. She shares techniques to reframe pain, emphasizing that while it's inevitable, suffering can be optional. Christiane dives into the roles of self-talk and touch in pain relief, and how meditation can enhance concentration by embracing discomfort. Ultimately, she inspires listeners to cultivate a compassionate relationship with their pain, highlighting that joy is still attainable amid chronic challenges.

Thupten Jinpa, a former Tibetan monk and the principal English translator for the Dalai Lama, dives into the transformative power of compassion. He discusses how meditation can nurture empathy and kindness, especially in times of crisis like the Parkland shooting. Jinpa emphasizes the need for mindful intention setting and the practice of compassion meditation for personal growth. He also highlights the connection between self-compassion and emotional well-being, advocating for deeper engagement with these concepts to foster connection and understanding in society.

Ethan Kross, a Professor at the University of Michigan and author of 'Chatter,' dives deep into the inner voice that influences our thoughts and emotions. He highlights how this voice can be both a critic and a coach, offering practical strategies to transform self-talk into a supportive ally. Kross discusses the importance of changing our environments to enhance our mental dialogue and shares insights on how to reframe stress from threats to challenges. Humorously addressing the complexities of parenting, the conversation offers valuable tools for emotional well-being.

Joseph Goldstein, cofounder of the Insight Meditation Society, shares profound insights on overcoming unhealthy self-perception through mindfulness. He discusses the ancient Pali term 'papancha,' exploring how our minds complicate simple experiences and propagate a false sense of self. Goldstein addresses craving and conceit's roles in personal identity and offers practical strategies for meditation. Listeners learn the importance of embracing non-self to alleviate suffering, ultimately guiding them towards liberation and deeper presence.

Kaira Jewel Lingo, a lay Dharma teacher and former nun in Thich Nhat Hanh’s Order of Interbeing, shares powerful insights on maintaining healthy relationships. She discusses the 'Beginning Anew' practice, outlining its four steps and how it fosters mindfulness and communication. Kaira emphasizes the transformative power of gratitude and regret in resolving conflicts, illustrating how expressing appreciation can strengthen bonds. With personal anecdotes, she highlights the importance of open dialogue and regular check-ins to nurture deeper connections.

Emiliana Simon-Thomas, the science director of the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley, dives deep into the neuroscience of happiness. She discusses the vital role of compassion in enhancing personal well-being and the transformative power it holds. The difference between empathy and compassion becomes clearer, with practical insights on cultivating kindness. Simon-Thomas also explores the complexities of love, advocating for discernment in relationships while highlighting the inherent goodness of humanity that promotes collective happiness. A thought-provoking listen!