Chasing Life

Professor Elizabeth Dunn from UBC discusses how money can indeed buy happiness, sharing insights from her book 'Happy Money: The Science of Happier Spending'. They explore strategies for maximizing happiness from spending, the impact of income increase, and the importance of generosity and social connection in relation to wealth and well-being.

Social psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky shares insights on happiness interventions and how changing habits can boost happiness levels. Topics include genetic predispositions, Scandinavian happiness rankings, power of gratitude and social connections, and personalized interventions for mood enhancement.

Neuropsychologist Ian Robertson and Dr. Sanjay Gupta discuss how confidence leads to happiness and well-being. They cover the link between confidence and success, the impact on performance and health, and cultivating confidence through achieving small victories. The podcast emphasizes the importance of setting goals, controlling emotions, and the power of confidence in overcoming challenges.

Author and trauma expert Dr. Gabor Maté discusses how past trauma can lead to illness. He shares steps for healing and living happier lives. Topics include childhood trauma, impact on emotions, self-compassion, and healing from trauma.

Health psychologist Kelly McGonigal discusses how exercise can bring happiness, hope, and connection. She explains the emotional and physical benefits of movement, the impact of exercise on the brain, and how to reframe workouts as enjoyable challenges. The podcast explores finding joy through movement and reflection, even in challenging times.

Dr. Fauci discusses his experiences managing public health crises, the controversy around alternative medications, and strategies for future pandemics. He reflects on his early life, career, and the evolving landscape of hip hop, emphasizing the importance of communication and collaboration. The conversation touches on happiness, family connections, and deriving joy from simple daily routines.

Immunologist and virologist, Rick Bright, discusses the current bird flu outbreak, the need for more action in prevention, and the importance of strong leadership in containing the virus. Topics include testing for mild cases, monitoring genetic sequences, vaccine preparation, and challenges in outbreak response.

Psychotherapist Lori Gottlieb discusses the benefits of therapy for achieving happiness, reshaping perspectives, and navigating personal challenges. They explore preventive therapy, neural rewiring for happiness, and the value of revisiting childhood memories for personal growth.

Neuroscientist Wendy Suzuki delves into the benefits of embracing anxiety for happiness and personal growth. She discusses how avoiding negative emotions may hinder our well-being. The podcast explores strategies for managing anxiety and reframing it as a catalyst for self-awareness and transformation.

Cognitive scientist Laurie Santos delves into the science of happiness, discussing re-training our brains for better choices and habits to achieve true contentment. Topics include debunking happiness myths, the power of vulnerability in building connections, classroom exercises for promoting happiness, strategies for addressing unhappiness, and the importance of parental honesty in nurturing emotional bonds.