Oprah's Super Soul

Join Shawn Achor, a Harvard-trained researcher and bestselling author renowned for his insights into positive psychology, as he shares his wisdom on finding happiness today. He discusses how to quiet the chaos of our hyper-connected lives and emphasizes the power of gratitude and social connections. Achor also offers strategies for diversifying our sources of meaning to foster resilience. He highlights the importance of embracing struggles as growth opportunities, encouraging a conscious choice of happiness through connections and purpose.

Shawn Achor, a Harvard-trained researcher and bestselling author renowned for his expertise in positive psychology, shares transformative insights on happiness. He emphasizes that true joy stems from meaningful relationships rather than fleeting pleasures. Challenging societal misconceptions about success, he introduces the 'bigger towel theory,' highlighting the importance of optimism and social connections. Achor also discusses the impact of gratitude and mindfulness, offering practical steps to cultivate happiness and improve overall well-being.

Sebastian Junger, a New York Times bestselling author known for works like 'The Perfect Storm,' dives deep into the concepts of belonging and community. He contrasts ancient tribal connections with modern isolation, suggesting that true happiness stems from communal bonds rather than wealth. Junger shares insights on the strong ties among soldiers and critiques societal divisions, urging a reevaluation of our relationships in a technology-driven world. He emphasizes that fostering community is crucial for addressing mental health challenges and global issues.

Pema Chödrön, a renowned American Tibetan Buddhist nun, shares profound insights on navigating difficult times. She emphasizes that embracing feelings of fear and discontent can lead to personal growth. Pema discusses how challenges, like divorce and daily struggles, can transform into opportunities for resilience. With her teachings on compassionate abiding, she encourages listeners to confront their vulnerabilities and discover their inherent worth. Through her journey in Buddhism, she highlights the importance of adapting to change as a path to self-discovery.

Mariel Hemingway, an Oscar-nominated actress and best-selling author, joins Bobby Williams, a former stuntman and extreme athlete, to explore vibrant living. They discuss overcoming family legacies of addiction and mental health, emphasizing healing through mindfulness and personal stories of resilience. The duo highlights the importance of embracing adventure and spirituality in daily life, inviting listeners to redefine age by cherishing life's moments. Laughter and meaningful connections are presented as key ingredients for personal growth and emotional well-being.

Cheryl Strayed, an acclaimed author and essayist famous for her memoir 'Wild,' joins Oprah to discuss her latest book 'Brave Enough.' She describes it as a guide for the soul, inspiring readers to embrace love, compassion, and forgiveness. The conversation dives into the challenges of being a bestselling author, the transformative power of vulnerability in storytelling, and the importance of maintaining authenticity amidst fame. Cheryl shares poignant insights on the struggles of parenting and the growth that comes from facing fears head-on.

Original Air Date: November 29, 2017 Oprah's conversation with New York Times best-selling author Elizabeth Gilbert continues. Elizabeth shares what she knows for sure about love, happiness and what it means to be a soul mate. Elizabeth says, "A true soul mate is a mirror, the person who shows you everything that's holding you back, the person who brings you to your own attention." She also opens up about her decision not to have children and its impact on her life spiritually. 

Elizabeth Gilbert, renowned author of the bestseller 'Eat, Pray, Love,' discusses her transformative journey around the world and how it shaped her understanding of life's purpose. She shares empowering insights on women's personal agency and the importance of carving out one’s unique narrative. With practical advice on spiritual quests, Gilbert emphasizes confronting fears to reclaim identity. The conversation highlights the universal aspects of the hero's journey, underscoring the significance of self-compassion while pursuing one's destiny.

Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, a Harvard-trained brain scientist and author, shares her transformative journey after experiencing a massive stroke. She discusses the awakening she felt during her recovery, highlighting the profound lesson of being responsible for the energy we bring to our surroundings. Dr. Jill reflects on the deep sense of oneness and peace that emerged from her trauma, exploring themes of spirituality, identity, and the vital role of connection in healing. Her story emphasizes the importance of gratitude and self-discovery in the face of adversity.

Marie Forleo, a life coach and entrepreneur, Gabrielle Bernstein, a bestselling author and spiritual guide, and Mastin Kipp, founder of The Daily Love, share their transformative spiritual journeys. They discuss overcoming addiction through spirituality, emphasizing meditation and forgiveness. The trio offers practical insights for nurturing self-awareness and meaningful connections. They also explore the balance between spiritual growth and financial success, highlighting the importance of community and love in personal relationships.