The Science of Happiness
Learn research-tested strategies for a happier, more meaningful life, drawing on the science of compassion, gratitude, mindfulness, and awe. Hosted by award-winning psychologist Dacher Keltner. Co-produced by PRX and UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center. Follow us on Instagram @HappinessPod.
Latest episodes
Apr 1, 2021 • 18min
How Music Soothes Us
What is it about certain melodies that can relax our nerves and rock us to sleep? We explore the science of calming music with pianist Rosey Chan.
Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/2ys7mf5d
Mar 18, 2021 • 25min
David Byrne on How Music Connects Us
Music helped former Talking Heads frontman David Byrne come out of his shell. Hear Byrne's story and learn how music creates social bonds in part one of our series, The Science of Music and Happiness.
Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/5dtxmsun
Mar 4, 2021 • 20min
Scheduling Time to Feel Awe(some)
Feeling awe can boost your mood and make you feel more connected with others. Comedian Chris Duffy learns how to tap into that sense.
Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/3ywvxfrb
Feb 18, 2021 • 17min
Why We're Drawn to Nature
What happens when we spend time outdoors? We explore how getting out in nature can restore peace of mind—and make us more creative.
Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/56cp6d52
Feb 4, 2021 • 21min
Are You Setting the Right Goals?
Setting goals can sometimes feel like setting ourselves up for failure. But journalist Monica Campbell finds there's something magical that happens with certain kinds of goals.
Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/d842bub2
Jan 21, 2021 • 17min
Healing Through Gratitude
A stranger helped her through the hardest day of her life. When she expresses her gratitude, our guest encounters the power of true connection.
Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/mv3h9nx5
Jan 7, 2021 • 15min
How to Talk with Strangers
The way we interact with people who come in and out of our lives has changed since COVID-19. Our guest tries a practice to connect with strangers while keeping a social distance.
Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/3ddvnmpn
Dec 24, 2020 • 20min
Happy Again: How to Connect When You Must Stay Apart (Encore)
Are you unable to be with your friends and family during the holiday season this year? These 36 questions can bring you closer to loved ones, even if you're separated.Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/mvn9vz6s
Dec 10, 2020 • 22min
Are You Listening to Your Elders?
Connecting across generations is one of the oldest happiness practices there is. We explore why to honor your elders, along with other practices from indigenous cultures often overlooked by Western science.
Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/2wjbjj3e
Nov 26, 2020 • 18min
How to Make Better Decisions
Can practicing mindfulness make us wiser? Judge Jeremy Fogel explores how being present in the moment helps him keep a clear mind and stay connected to his true values.
Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/4vaxruje
