10% Happier with Dan Harris

Bhikkhu Bodhi, a Buddhist monk and expert translator of Buddhist texts, shares insightful perspectives on the teachings of the Buddha. He discusses the importance of understanding the Buddha's life and teachings for modern meditators. Topics include how his teachings survived an oral tradition, interpretations of karma and rebirth, and the daily life of the Buddha. Bhikkhu also emphasizes the significance of compassion and social engagement within Buddhist practice, illustrating how these teachings remain relevant today.

Bill Doherty, a marriage counselor and founder of Braver Angels, shares valuable strategies for navigating tricky family conversations, especially during the holidays. He emphasizes the importance of using 'I statements' to foster understanding and avoid conflict. Discussing his organization's mission, he explores techniques for bridging political divides and highlights the significance of empathy in discussions. Doherty offers insights on self-reflection, active listening, and finding common ground to transform challenging dialogues into meaningful connections.

Bonnie Duran, a professor at the University of Washington and an expert in Buddhist meditation, dives deep into the connection between meditation and indigenous practices. She shares her transformative experiences with native ceremonies like the sun dance and presents the fascinating concept of the Seven Spokes of Satipatthana. Duran also offers a powerful six-word mantra for navigating tough days, highlighting the significance of mindfulness, cultural connection, and the essential role of love in fostering societal change.

Haemin Sunim, a Korean Zen Buddhist monk and author of the bestselling 'Love for Imperfect Things,' shares his journey from academia to monastic life. He discusses the importance of self-love and mindfulness, revealing how perfectionism often exists in our minds. With insights into relationship dynamics, he offers advice on empathy and support, emphasizing the beauty of imperfection. Sunim also reflects on the transformative power of attention in love, showing how genuine connections thrive through mindfulness.

Jamil Zaki, a psychologist and director of the Stanford Social Neuroscience Lab, shares insights from his book, The War for Kindness. He discusses the current ‘empathy deficit’ in our culture and reveals how selfishness can be detrimental. Zaki argues that kindness and empathy, often dismissed as soft skills, are essential in healing societal divides. He offers practical strategies for cultivating empathy, addressing challenges like empathy burnout, and emphasizes the radical power of intentional connections in fostering compassion.

Join Lama Rod Owens, a Boston-based Buddhist teacher and author of 'Love and Rage,' as he navigates the emotional landscapes of uncertainty, anxiety, and anger. He discusses the importance of self-care after turmoil and the significance of embracing discomfort for personal growth. Lama Rod emphasizes transforming rage into compassion and understanding underlying emotions. Listen for insights on mindful responses to anger and the power of vulnerability, all while promoting community and connection in challenging times.

Randy Fernando, co-founder of the Center for Humane Technology and featured in The Social Dilemma, discusses the profound impact of social media on mental health and society. He highlights dangers such as misinformation and anxiety while offering Buddhist-inspired techniques for mindful usage. Randy emphasizes the importance of intentional engagement to counteract the addictive nature of these platforms. He also advocates for humane tech design and the power of social media to foster positive connections, urging users to reflect on their motivations online.

DaRa Williams, a guiding teacher at the Insight Meditation Society and an experienced mental health professional, discusses the transformative power of gratitude, especially during challenging times like 2020. She argues that gratitude can be viewed as a fifth Brahma Vihara, coexisting with compassion and joy. The conversation emphasizes how gratitude can foster resilience, encouraging listeners to find appreciation in life's small moments. DaRa shares practical tips and personal anecdotes, weaving emotional intelligence into the fabric of mindfulness.

Roshi Joan Halifax, a Buddhist teacher and anthropologist known for her work in end-of-life care, shares her insights on cultivating equanimity amid political chaos. She discusses the importance of balance in navigating today's turbulent landscape and promotes respectful engagement with differing views. Joan emphasizes that equanimity, likened to 'vitamin E,' isn't easily achieved but is vital for personal well-being. Through personal anecdotes, she explores the interplay of emotional strength and openness, and encourages ongoing mindfulness practices for resilience.

Brett Eldredge, a country music star with six #1 hits, opens up about his mental health journey and the impact of anxiety on his life. He candidly shares how ambition and perfectionism have fueled his challenges and discusses a unique therapy for panic attacks. Meditation has played a vital role in his creativity, especially during the making of his new album, 'Sunday Drive.' Eldredge emphasizes the importance of authenticity in both art and relationships, revealing how personal growth is intertwined with vulnerability and connection.