10% Happier with Dan Harris

Ravi Patel, an actor known for "Meet the Patels" and his HBO Max show, shares his candid journey through the complexities of work-life balance and modern marriage. He discusses the pressure of family responsibilities and how to navigate parenting challenges, balancing tradition with contemporary expectations. With humor and honesty, Ravi highlights the power of genuine relationships in finding happiness and addresses the importance of kindness and gratitude in our lives.

Sharon Salzberg, a leading figure in American meditation and co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society, shares insights on maintaining political engagement without losing one's sanity. She argues that all feelings, even anger, deserve a place in meditation. During the discussion, she emphasizes developing patience and compassion, even for those we might not agree with, and offers strategies for managing the urge to doomscroll. Salzberg also touches on the importance of joy amid struggles and the need for inclusive representation in activism.

Angel Collinson, a world-class extreme skier, meditator, and climate activist, shares how mindfulness keeps her centered while skiing off cliffs. She discusses the mental challenges of extreme sports, the role of breath awareness, and emotional management in high-stress situations. Angel also opens up about personal loss and its impact on her growth, navigating self-doubt in the context of climate advocacy, and fostering supportive communities among women in sports. Her journey showcases the powerful connection between mindfulness and brazen adventure.

Sebene Selassie, a Brooklyn-based writer and teacher, explores the profound connection between belonging and our oneness with the universe. She delves into how personal connections shape our identity while addressing the complexities of societal expectations and self-acceptance. The conversation reflects on mindfulness, the importance of safe spaces for marginalized communities, and the legacies inherited from our ancestors. Sebene also emphasizes the liberating power of self-relationship and movement, inspiring listeners to embrace their shared humanity.

Dr. Pat Ogden, a pioneering expert in trauma and somatic psychology, delves into how recent global events may have left us all grappling with trauma. She emphasizes the dangers of rushing back to normalcy without proper healing and discusses the profound impact trauma has on both our brains and bodies. The conversation also touches on the link between empathy and productivity, highlighting the importance of emotional connections during challenging times. Ogden advocates for recognizing trauma's complexities to foster understanding and healing.

Martine Batchelor, a former Buddhist nun and author, shares her insights on improving relationships through mindfulness. She discusses the powerful concept of 'vedana,' or feeling tone, which influences how we react emotionally to different situations. Highlights include practical meditation techniques for navigating unpleasant emotions and fostering deeper connections. Martine also emphasizes the importance of awareness around biases and teaches how recognizing feeling tones can enhance personal growth and interpersonal dynamics.

Dr. Jonathan Salk, an adult and child psychiatrist at UCLA and son of the polio vaccine inventor, discusses the potential for a cultural shift in response to the current crises. He explores how the pandemic revealed societal vulnerabilities such as inequities and individualism. Salk emphasizes the need for cooperation and the importance of long-term thinking for societal evolution. With insights inspired by his father's legacy, he advocates for a hopeful future grounded in emotional connections and a community-oriented approach.

In this engaging conversation, George Mumford, a legendary meditation teacher known for guiding icons like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, shares his profound insights on resilience. He recounts his journey from overcoming addiction to becoming a beacon of mindfulness. George introduces listeners to his practical frameworks, including the Three C’s and Four A’s, to navigate grief and high-pressure situations. Reflecting on recent losses, he emphasizes community's role in fostering compassion and the transformative power of mindfulness in enhancing our everyday lives.

Angela Duckworth, a renowned psychologist and author of "Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance," delves into the concepts of grit and resilience in challenging times. She shares personal reflections on loss and how it shapes our pursuit of goals. The conversation navigates the balance of ambition and rest, emphasizing that grit should coexist with mindfulness. Duckworth also tackles societal issues like racial inequality, advocating for empathy in personal growth. Her insights illuminate the complexity of achieving success amidst adversity.

Leah Weiss, a compassionate leadership expert at Stanford and author of 'How We Work,' reframes success by challenging the myth that relentless hard work is essential. She emphasizes finding one's purpose as a cleaner fuel for motivation. The discussion delves into mindfulness, the significance of accountability in corporate training, and how understanding personal values boosts resilience against burnout. Leah shares insights on compassion in the workplace and the vital connection between self-reflection and well-being.