10% Happier with Dan Harris

Emiliana Simon-Thomas, the science director of the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley, dives deep into the concept of happiness as a skill we can nurture, rather than luck-based. She discusses how generosity is biologically rooted and enriches our joy in caring for others. The conversation also tackles empathy fatigue and reframes our understanding of selfishness and love. Through her insights, she highlights the transformative power of compassion on personal happiness and emphasizes the balance between kindness and self-care in today's complex world.

Dr. Larry Ward, a lay minister and advisor to the Executive Mind Leadership Institute, tackles America's pressing racial issues through the lens of personal trauma and healing. He emphasizes the potential for transformation in our collective racial karma. Through mindfulness and empathy, he explores how individuals can combat cycles of violence and fear. Ward discusses the vital role of corporations in fostering diversity and accountability, urging a cultural shift towards compassion and genuine connection to create a more equitable future.

Dr. Judson Brewer, an addiction psychiatrist and director at Brown University's Mindfulness Center, discusses how mindfulness can combat addictions in today’s stressful climate. He emphasizes that everyone sits on a spectrum of addiction, worsened by global issues like the pandemic. Jud reveals how mindfulness reshapes our response to cravings and can be a powerful tool for healthier habits. He also shares insights on managing habitual behaviors and the effectiveness of online therapy, making mental health support more accessible for all.

Spring Washam, a meditation teacher and author of "A Fierce Heart," draws striking parallels between Harriet Tubman and Buddha, highlighting their shared mission of guiding others to freedom. She discusses how Tubman's courage informs modern activism and personal growth. The conversation touches on navigating grief, the importance of compassion in social justice, and breaking free from societal conditioning. Washam emphasizes a heart-centered approach to activism, advocating for empathy and emotional resilience as vital tools in the fight for justice.

Shelly Graf, a social worker and dharma teacher at the Common Ground Meditation Center, leads a powerful conversation on confronting uncomfortable racial biases in a mindful way. She encourages white individuals to embrace curiosity over shame, promoting self-awareness and personal growth. The discussion touches on the intersections of meditation and race, the complexities of ambition, and the importance of genuine relationships. Graf advocates for vulnerability and open dialogue as pathways to understanding systemic issues and fostering social justice.

Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche, a celebrated Buddhist meditation master and author, shares profound insights on love, compassion, and the human experience. He discusses navigating anger and division in society with mindfulness and compassion, emphasizing our intrinsic goodness. Rinpoche also explores the transformative power of prayer beyond religious rituals, and offers guidance on deepening personal connections. As a delightful bonus, he leads listeners through a brief meditation to anchor their minds amidst chaos.

Eleanor Hancock, the Executive Director of White Awake, engages in a powerful discussion about the concept of whiteness as a social construct. She explains why recognizing racial identity is crucial for white people in the pursuit of racial justice. Eleanor explores barriers to this recognition, critiques the pitfalls of white wokeness, and emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and supportive environments for honest dialogues about race. Their conversation reveals the complexities of language around race and urges collective action to foster equity and societal change.

Lama Rod Owens, a Black, queer author and Buddhist teacher, dives into the complex landscape of race and privilege. He emphasizes the importance of confronting discomfort in conversations about systemic racism. With heartfelt insights, he shares personal experiences of racial pain and the emotional toll of these challenges. The discussion advocates for empathy, vulnerability, and genuine connection as essential tools for meaningful dialogue. Throughout, Owens highlights the intricate relationship between love and anger in pursuit of understanding and liberation.

Sebene Selassie, a prominent meditation teacher and writer, dives into the urgency of addressing race and personal responsibility in the wake of social unrest. He discusses how meditation can help individuals navigate complex emotions like pain and anger, while also reflecting on internal biases. Selassie emphasizes the importance of compassion and awareness, urging meditators to engage meaningfully with societal issues. Personal stories enrich the conversation, showcasing resilience found in shared human experiences and the necessity for allyship amidst ongoing challenges.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the renowned spiritual leader and advocate for peace, shares profound insights on coping with pandemic-induced anxiety and grief. He emphasizes the role of compassion and community during crises, urging a focus on shared humanity. Joined by Richard Davidson, a leading neuroscientist, they discuss meditation's transformative effects on the brain. They explore resilience, joy in nature, and the importance of humor in challenging times, revealing the Dalai Lama's unique approach to life amidst adversity.