Lives Well Lived

Arthur C. Brooks, an author and Harvard professor, dives into the multi-faceted nature of happiness, discussing its essential components: enjoyment, satisfaction, and meaning. He tackles the paradox of the hedonic treadmill and the fleeting joy of achieving goals versus savoring the journey itself. Brooks emphasizes the importance of purpose, self-reflection, and emotional awareness, while also exploring societal views on aging and dignity. The conversation interweaves philosophical insights with scientific perspectives, offering valuable strategies for cultivating happiness.

Antonio Damasio, an acclaimed neuroscientist, dives into the depths of consciousness, emotions, and decision-making. He discusses the dramatic personality shifts from brain injuries, illustrated by Phineas Gage's case. The conversation underscores the vital link between bodily awareness and a fulfilled life while exploring how art and relationships enrich our happiness. Damasio also reflects on the complexities of emotions in music and the moral implications of artificial intelligence, challenging our understanding of consciousness and human experience.

In this engaging conversation, Sigal Samuel, a writer and journalist known for her insights on religion and ethics, shares her approach to navigating moral complexities. She discusses the limitations of optimizing morality within a utilitarian framework and advocates for a balance between moral values and personal fulfillment. Sigal also reflects on her evolution from a scarcity mindset to embracing philanthropy, emphasizing the joy of self-care and the importance of community connections in ethical decision-making.

David Duchovny, renowned actor, writer, and musician, shares his insights on the delicate balance between pleasure and meaning in life. He dives into the complexities of fame and failure, reflecting on his creative journey and the impact of personal experiences. Duchovny discusses the ethics of food consumption, the rise of alternative proteins, and the nuanced differences between empathy and compassion. He also explores how personal history shapes art and literature, highlighting the emotional depth conveyed through storytelling.

Michael Plant, the founding director of the Happier Lives Institute and a research fellow at Oxford, dives into the essence of happiness and global wellbeing. He discusses key findings from the 2025 World Happiness Report, emphasizing how informed charitable giving can significantly improve well-being. Plant shares insights on the emotional toll of infertility, personal anecdotes, and the diverse dimensions of happiness, urging listeners to consider how their actions contribute to a happier society.

Dr. Anna Lembke, a Stanford psychiatry professor and author of Dopamine Nation, dives deep into the world of addiction and the science of dopamine. She discusses how modern technology fuels compulsive behaviors and the ethical dilemmas of free will in addiction. Lembke highlights the importance of radical honesty in relationships and the effects of personal loss on identity. The conversation also touches on navigating the balance between medication and alternative treatments, emphasizing the need for genuine connections in today's digital landscape.

Neuroscientist Robert Sapolsky, known for his groundbreaking work on stress and social hierarchies in baboons, dives deep into the mind's intricacies. He explores how stress affects behavior and challenges the concept of free will. Sapolsky's insights reveal striking parallels between baboon social dynamics and human mental health. He discusses addiction's genetic and environmental factors and emphasizes the importance of compassion in understanding human behavior. The conversation highlights ethical dilemmas in animal research while advocating for personal agency in navigating life's complexities.

Safeena Husain, the founder of Educate Girls, shares her journey in mobilizing communities for girls' education in rural India. She addresses the staggering issue of 122 million girls out of school, often due to deep-seated cultural biases. Safeena highlights the transformative power of education in breaking poverty cycles and discusses the need for systemic change. Through grassroots efforts, she emphasizes the importance of empowering local champions and advocating for at least twelve years of education to ensure girls' futures are protected and their voices heard.

Join Alex Amouyel, CEO of Newman's Own Foundation, alongside Humanitix co-founders Josh Ross and Adam McCurdie, as they discuss a bold approach to capitalism. They explore how businesses can thrive while donating 100% of profits to charity. Insights include the innovative ticketing model of Humanitix that disrupts traditional norms, the transformative legacy of Newman's Own, and the shift towards valuing societal impact over mere financial profit. Together, they inspire listeners to rethink business success through a philanthropic lens.

Moby, the iconic musician and animal rights activist known for his album "Play," dives deep into the intersection of music and activism. He shares personal stories about transforming artistic collaborations with legends like David Lynch. The conversation explores the ethical complexities of animal rights, societal norms, and the role music plays in social change. Moby also reflects on spirituality, addiction, and finding joy in service, emphasizing that true fulfillment comes from simplicity and compassion.