10% Happier with Dan Harris

Kaira Jewel Lingo, an author and former Buddhist nun, shares insights from her book, "We Were Made for These Times." She discusses navigating change and loss through Buddhist teachings, emphasizing acceptance and gratitude. Kaira explores mindfulness, the importance of trusting the unknown, and how the Five Remembrances can guide us through turmoil. Her personal journey from monastic life to self-discovery highlights the emotional challenges of adaptability. With practical strategies, she inspires resilience during life's inevitable disruptions.

Kate Johnson, author of 'Radical Friendship' and a seasoned meditation teacher, discusses the profound role of friendship in Buddhism. She highlights the Mitta Sutta's teachings on generosity and realness as essential elements for fostering authentic connections. The conversation dives into navigating personal conflicts, emphasizing open communication and vulnerability. Kate shares how radical friendship not only enriches our lives but also serves as a catalyst for social justice and personal growth, encouraging listeners to cultivate deeper relationships.

Dr. Amishi Jha, a Professor of Psychology at the University of Miami and author of 'Peak Mind,' brings her expertise in neuroscience and mindfulness training to the discussion. She explores the impacts of distraction on modern life and how meditation can counteract it, especially for high-stress professionals. Dr. Jha emphasizes techniques for enhancing focus, the balance between multitasking and mindful awareness, and the surprising effectiveness of short meditation sessions. She also shares insights from her book and practical tips for cultivating attention in a busy world.

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.