10% Happier with Dan Harris

Dr. Peter Attia, a longevity expert and founder of Attia Medical, shares insights on how meditation can enhance emotional well-being and potentially extend life. He reflects on his personal battles and the transformation achieved through mindfulness practices. Attia emphasizes that even if happiness doesn’t significantly prolong life, it’s still worthwhile. The discussion intertwines meditation with personal growth, emotional regulation, and the importance of meaningful relationships as essential components of a fulfilling, long life.

In this enlightening discussion, Byron Katie, an American speaker and author known for her self-inquiry method, shares her extraordinary journey from despair to joy. She reveals how she transformed her life by challenging negative thoughts that fueled her suffering. The conversation dives into the power of self-examination, addressing personal judgments, and overcoming mental challenges like anxiety and depression. Practical insights on self-inquiry and tools to alleviate emotional distress are offered, making this a must-listen for anyone seeking personal freedom.

Sharon Salzberg, a world-renowned meditation teacher and founding teacher of the 10% Happier app, shares her transformative journey through a serious health scare. She discusses how her mindfulness training helped her navigate fear and confusion during hospitalization. The conversation delves into the emotional responses to facing death, the significance of community support, and the power of meditation in transforming pain and perception. Ultimately, Sharon reflects on personal growth and the importance of embracing life’s challenges with gratitude.

In this engaging conversation, Patrick Dempsey, renowned for his role as McDreamy in Grey's Anatomy, shares his deep connection with meditation, which he's embraced since the '80s. He discusses how mindfulness aids in his acting and competitive racing, alongside navigating personal challenges, especially during his mother's cancer battle. Patrick also highlights the Dempsey Center, his initiative to support cancer patients. With insights on the interplay between mindfulness, performance, and personal growth, this chat is a blend of inspiration and practical wisdom.

In this heartfelt discussion, Dean Valoras shares his painful journey after the loss of his daughter, Alexandra, to suicide. He emphasizes how meditation has become a vital tool in managing his grief. Dean reveals the importance of confronting one's emotions and fostering open dialogues about mental health. He also discusses the significance of mindfulness in parenting and the need for resilience during times of crisis. His candid insights aim to inspire others to seek support and navigate their own emotional landscapes.

Koshin Paley Ellison, a Zen teacher and psychotherapist, discusses the growing issue of social isolation in our digital age, coining the term 'Zombieland' for our disconnected existence. He shares insights on fostering genuine relationships and the vital role of intimacy and vulnerability in our lives. Through unique exercises, he encourages deeper connections, while emphasizing meditation as a tool for emotional resilience. The conversation explores the significance of presence and compassion, providing practical advice for living life wholeheartedly.

Modupe Akinola, an Associate Professor at Columbia Business School, shares her expertise on stress and its dual nature. She explains how stress can be both a burden and a motivator, and provides insights into distinguishing between good and bad stress. Modupe recounts her transformational meditation journey and emphasizes the importance of emotional awareness. Additionally, she discusses the fascinating connection between stress and creativity, urging listeners to utilize stress for personal growth and improved performance.

Sylvia Boorstein, an accomplished author and Buddhist teacher, shares her journey of managing life's stresses through mindfulness. She humorously reflects on her own anxiety, envisioning a 'mind-ectomy' for her worries. Her insights include transformative moments from meditation retreats and the difference between fear, empathy, and compassion. Boorstein discusses the importance of kindness, drawing inspiration from Mr. Rogers, and explores the idea of savoring life's simple pleasures while facing life's challenges with grace and resilience.

In this conversation with James Clear, author of 'Atomic Habits' and a behavior change expert, he shares his inspiring journey from a severe sports injury to discovering the power of small habits. He discusses practical strategies like the 'two-minute rule' for establishing effective habits, the vital connection between habits and identity, and how environment influences habit development. Clear emphasizes that overcoming challenges can lead to personal growth, making mindfulness a central tool in this transformative process.

Narayan Liebenson, a well-respected Buddhist teacher and co-founder of the Cambridge Insight Meditation Center, dives deep into the concept of 'enough-ness' and the insatiable 'hungry ghost' of desire. She shares her journey in meditation, emphasizing the importance of embracing boredom and silence in a tech-driven world. The conversation touches on the transformative power of letting go and accepting emotions, as well as the need for authentic feminine voices in Buddhism. Listeners are encouraged to find resilience through personal struggles and the liberating practice of meditation.