The Happiness Squad Podcast with Ashish Kothari

In this episode, Ashish and Anil explores further the philosophy of happiness, and how important it is for universities to teach happiness, with Jackson Kerchis, co-founder of Happiness Means Business.Jackson established a happiness course at the University of Alabama when he was just 18. He strongly believes in meditation and dedicates his life to studying and teaching happiness.Today, we live in an extremely connected world where people have the means to share their lives with whoever they choose to. But sadly, most of them are lonely because they never really feel comfortable showing their authentic self. This is why we do what we do here at HAPPINESS SQUAD - to spread awareness on what it truly means to be happy.Throughout this episode, Jackson shares his journey on how he created a happiness course, and the biggest obstacle in learning happiness in the corporate world. Dont miss this episode, as we explore why educations needs a revamp and include happiness. Resources:YouTube: youtube.com/@HappinessMeansBusiness Company Website: https://happinessmeansbusiness.com/ Books:Books mentioned in the episode:"Atomic Habits" by James Clear

When a song doesn't vibe with us, we skip it. But what about life's unsettling tunes? How do we change or mute the ‘internal playlist’ that throws us off? Our next guest shares how.Meet Susan Drumm, CEO of Meritage Leadership Development, advisor, USA Today bestselling author, and leadership coach. She has personally coached billionaire CEOs, high-profile political figures, prominent Fortune 100 executive teams, and incredible entrepreneurs that are setting out to disrupt the marketplace.She holds graduate degrees from Harvard Law, Carnegie Mellon University, and the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. She's a two-time number one bestselling author of "The Leader's Playlist", where you unleash the power of music and neuroscience to transform your leadership and your life. In today’s episode, we uncover how our childhood wounds show up in our ability to lead others and how music can actually heal those wounds. We delved deeper to understand how music can interrupt old beliefs of ‘old patterns’, and the role of self-awareness in rewiring our leadership styles. Join Ashish, Susan, and I in exploring the healing power of music and change the way we lead.Things you will also learn in this episode:The link between past traumas and leadership.How music can be a game-changer in healing and leading.Resources:/Susan Drumm’s Website: https://susandrumm.com/ Meritage Leadership Website: https://meritageleadership.com/ Books:/The Leader's Playlist: Unleash the Power of Music and Neuroscience to Transform Your Leadership and Your Life by Susan DrummOther books mentioned in the episode:The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel van der KolkChildhood Disrupted: How Your Biography Becomes Your Biology, and How You Can Heal by Donna Jackson NakazawaThe Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life by Ben Zander 

In today’s episode, Ashish and Anil, chat with Dr. Shauna Shapiro. Dr. Shauna is a best-selling author, clinical psychologist, and internationally recognized expert in mindfulness and self-compassion. She's a professor at Santa Clara University and has published over 150 papers and three critically acclaimed books, translated in over 16 languages. Her work has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Oprah, and NPR. Her TEDx talk, The Power of Mindfulness, has been viewed over 3 million times.Shauna's book, “Good Morning, I Love You”, which incorporates practices in mindfulness, self-compassion, and joy, takes center stage throughout this conversation, delving into her journey and the power of the practices that have truly made a difference in her life and of those around her.This chat with Shauna opens up a world of deep, transformative thoughts about the power and importance of mindfulness and self-compassion. They also delve into how our small, personal acts of self-care and kindness can create waves, reaching and impacting not just those close to us, but our wider communities and potentially even beyond!Things you will also learn in this episode:Finding Peace Within Through MindfulnessThe three key pillars of mindfulnessHow to Practice Self-compassionEmbracing Gratitude and AppreciationDon't Miss Out on a Journey to Mindfulness and Self-Compassion! Dive into this enlightening episode with Dr. Shauna Shapiro and discover practices that can change your life.Want to keep the positivity flowing? Subscribe to the Happiness Squad Podcast and never miss an episode filled with insights, expert advice, and stories that uplift and inspire! Resources:Dr. Shauna Shapiro Website: https://drshaunashapiro.com/ TEDx | The Power Of Mindfulness: What You Practice Grows Stronger: https://drshaunashapiro.com/videos/ Books:Good Morning, I Love You:  Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Practices to Rewire Your Brain for Calm, Clarity, and JoyRewire Your Mind: Discover the science and practice of mindfulnessGood Morning, I Love You, Violet!

In this episode, Ashish and Anil delve into a mind-altering chat with Professor Srikumar Rao, Head of The Rao Institute. Prof. Srikumar Rao is a speaker, former business school professor and head of the Rao Institute based out of New York. He's an executive coach to senior business executives who he helps find deeper meaning and engagement in their work. Graduates of his workshops and leaders he has helped around the globe have transformed their lives so that they can experience abundant joy, no matter what comes their way. He's a Ted speaker, author, and creator of the pioneering course, Creativity and Personal Mastery (CPM). In life, there will always be challenges that will come our way. And most people overcome those battles to be happy. But it’s time we flip the script. After all, happiness can be the means to pursue any end, instead of something we pursue. One of the best ways to do this, is to live in pure awareness. Throughout this episode, Professor Rao, Ashish, and Anil, delve into the concept of 'pure awareness' - a steady, unchanging self beneath the roles we play. We at Happiness Squad echo this concept of the constant self we have that can navigate life's journey with intrinsic happiness as the compass, not the destination.Join us in this mind-altering chat with Professor Rao, as we peel back the layers of 'pure awareness'. Resources: The Rao Institute Website: http://theraoinstitute.com/Rewire Program: Make Happiness Your Competitive EdgeBooks: Books by Professor Srikumar S. Rao:Modern Wisdom, Ancient Roots The Personal Mastery Program: Discovering Passion and Purpose in Your Life and WorkHappiness at Work: Be Resilient, Motivated, and Successful - No Matter WhatOther books mentioned in the episode:The Universe in a Single Atom: The Convergence of Science and Spirituality by Dalai LamaWhat is Life? By Erwin SchrodingerA Search in Secret India by Paul Burton

In today’s episode, Ashish and Anil chat with the beautiful human being, Barry Shore. He is known as the Ambassador of Joy. He's a mental wellness activist and a philanthropist. He's a multi-patent holder, but he's actually a former quadriplegic who is now swimming around the world. After a rare disease paralyzed Barry from the neck down, he created the Joy Of Living community and the Keep Smiling Movement. In fact, his podcast, The Joy of Living, is in the top 2 percent of all podcasts and is heard globally.Throughout this episode, Barry, Ashish, and Anil explore the joy of life by overcoming challenges, discovering purpose, and spreading positivity in the face of adversity. Barry’s philosophies encourage us to commit to doing good, and to believe in our individual power to make a difference. And you wouldn’t want to miss the reason why we should love DOG POOP at the end of this episode!Don’t miss out on this soul-stirring episode full of wisdom, inspiration, and discover the power of having a positive, purposeful, powerful, and pleasant outlook to truly unlock the joy of life. Let’s start making a difference now!Resources: Barry Shore’s Website: http://barryshore.com/ REWIRE Program: happinesssquad.com/rewire-programBooks: Oh Shift! By Barry Shore Pocketful of Acronyms by Barry ShoreThe Joy of Living: How to Slay Stress And Be Happy (eBook)The Joy of Living: How to Slay Stress And Be Happy (paperback)

In today’s episode, Ashish and Anil chat with Jessica Weiss. With over 15 years of rigorous research and engaging with thousands on the subject, Jessica has emerged as a leading consultant, guiding businesses towards greater workplace satisfaction. Her extensive expertise has led her to collaborate with global giants like Coca-Cola, providing actionable, research-driven strategies for happier work environments.Recognized as a TEDx speaker and organizational leadership maestro, Jessica's candid, humor-infused approach has empowered companies nationwide. She's a staunch believer that work can be a fountain of happiness and champions creating environments where employees genuinely enjoy what they do.Throughout this episode, Jessica, Ashish, and Anil unpack actionable insights that can redefine your personal or leadership journey. Discover the transformative power of journaling, the role of workplace friendships, and even the unconventional use of poker chips in team meetings to boost engagement.Tune in now and discover how happiness truly forms the foundation of our best human performances.What you’ll learn in this show:Discover Jessica Weiss’s definition of happinessThe role of happiness at workHappiness habits to practice for happier teamsHow to make happier, more productive teamsResources:www.jessicaweiss.com/ Jessica Weiss LinkedInREWIRE Program: happinesssquad.com/rewire-programHappinesssquad.com @MyHappinessSquad InstagramAshish Kothari LinkedInAnil Ramjiani LinkedInHappiness Squad Youtube ChannelBooks:Hardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best LifeThe Good Enough Job: Reclaiming Life from Work by Simone Stolzoff Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success by Adam GrantThink Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know by Adam GrantOption B: Facing Diversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy by Adam Grant and Sheryl Sandberg

In today's episode, Ashish and Anil continue the series designed to help you lead a more purposeful life as they explore Ashish's book, 'Hardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best Life,' a modality that walks you through simple practices used to change your life in just a few minutes a day.Today, they explore practice number nine: Living Intentionally. Join them as they explore the power of intention and its role in transforming your life.They will discuss the importance of setting clear intentions and how it can guide your daily actions. Ashish will share his own journey towards living intentionally and the impact it has had on his life. He will also talk about the science behind intention and manifestation, shedding light on how our inner thoughts can shape our external reality.You will find out why many people struggle with setting and sticking to their intentions and how to overcome common challenges. You will also learn practical tips for incorporating intention-setting into your daily routine to lead a more purposeful and meaningful life.Enjoy this insightful episode, and discover how the power of intention can help you navigate life's challenges and achieve your goals.What You’ll Learn in this Show:The importance of setting clear intentions in daily lifeHow intention can shape your actions and decisionsCommon challenges people face when setting intentions and how to overcome themPractical tips for incorporating intention-setting into your daily routine.The transformative impact of living intentionallyAnd so much more...Resources:Happinesssquad.com @MyHappinessSquad InstagramAshish Kothari LinkedInAnil Ramjiani LinkedInHappiness Squad Youtube ChannelJuni Felix | Recode Yourself for Happiness Through Tiny but Mighty StepsCultivating Self-AwarenessBooks:Hardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best LifeTiny Habits: The Small Changes That Change EverythingHow Will You Measure Your Life?

In today’s episode, Ashish and Anil continue the series designed to help you lead a more purposeful life as they explore Ashish’s book, ‘Hardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best Life,’ a modality that walks you through simple practices used to change your life in just a few minutes a day.Today, they continue to explore practice number eight: building a supportive community. In part two, they delve deeper into applications for your personal and professional networks, especially in the context of remote work and the new era of connectivity.In this episode, they discuss the critical importance of networking, both personally and professionally, in today's rapidly changing world. Ashish and Anil share their own experiences and reflections on how building strong connections has played a pivotal role in their lives. They touch upon the power of open networks versus closed networks, emphasizing the value of weak ties and diverse connections and they share actionable tips for nurturing professional relationships, from leading with genuine intent to practicing generosity and active listening.They will also talk about the Happiness Squad community and how it provides a safe space for individuals to share hopes, dreams, challenges, and ideas and so much more.Listen now and enjoy!What You’ll Learn in this Show:The science behind open networks and closed networks.Strategies for remote networking and virtual community building.The transformative power of leading with genuine intent and generosity.Redefining the "How are you?" question for meaningful connections.Creating intentional spaces for authentic engagement.And so much more...Resources:Happinesssquad.com @MyHappinessSquad InstagramAshish Kothari LinkedInAnil Ramjiani LinkedInHappiness Squad Youtube ChannelBook:Hardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best Life

In today’s episode, Ashish and Anil continue the series designed to help you lead a more purposeful life as they explore Ashish’s book, ‘Hardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best Life,’ a modality that walks you through simple practices used to change your life in just a few minutes a day.Today, they explore practice number eight: build a supportive community. Join them as they explore the profound impact of cultivating vibrant connections with those around us. It's going to be a two-part series where they'll unravel the power of building strong bonds with partners, friends, family, and your professional network.Ashish delves deep into the evolutionary roots of our need for connection, tracing back to our ancient ancestors who thrived in close-knit communities. He shares how our brains are hardwired for connection, and how the fear of not belonging can drive us in various aspects of life.You will learn the difference between shallow interactions and deep, meaningful relationships, and how technology can either deepen or hinder our connections. Ashish and Anil will explore the Golden Rule of Relationships—five positive interactions for every negative one—and how it can revolutionize your dynamics with loved ones. They will also share personal stories that shed light on the importance of maintaining well-being and personal growth through community.Enjoy!What You’ll Learn in this Show:The evolutionary significance of human connection and the fear of not belonging.Strategies to bridge the gap between knowing and doing in building connections.The impact of loneliness on well-being and the transformative power of authentic connections.Practical habits for nurturing relationships, from daily birthday calls to conscious technology use.The power of vulnerability and how to ask for help in fostering genuine relationships.The importance of creating space for deep conversations and truly being present.And so much more...Resources:Happinesssquad.com @MyHappinessSquad InstagramAshish Kothari LinkedInAnil Ramjiani LinkedInHappiness Squad Youtube ChannelBook:Hardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best Life

Life is a series of building blocks. What is unknown is how those blocks will emerge, and the lessons they will unlock as we journey through life and experience setbacks that may be traumatic. How do you heal and come back from that?In today’s episode, Theresa Carpenter joins Anil and Ashish to talk about her remarkable journey of healing and growth, and how embracing vulnerability has led to personal transformation.Theresa Carpenter is an active duty Navy Commander with 27 years of dedicated service. She has harnessed her passion for storytelling through visual mediums, sharing her life's narrative online in a raw, authentic, and always honest format. A writer and podcaster for SOS (Stories of Service), Theresa has featured over 100 episodes highlighting ordinary people from diverse backgrounds who demonstrate exceptional service to their communities. Currently residing in the United Kingdom, she serves as the chief public affairs officer for NATO’s Maritime Command.In this episode, Theresa will discuss overcoming challenges and breaking down the stigma surrounding emotional and mental well-being, fostering an environment for open conversations. She'll emphasize the pivotal role of seeking help in unlocking the path to healing from traumatic experiences. Additionally, she'll explore how embracing authenticity and vulnerability can lead to the development of more meaningful relationships and improved personal well-being.Throughout the conversation, Theresa will also share her insights on reframing past experiences, releasing negative emotions such as resentment and anger, and offer practical strategies for finding the delicate balance between self-reliance and reaching out for support. She'll highlight the importance of sharing personal stories as a means to destigmatize discussions about mental health and much more.Listen now and enjoy!What You’ll Learn in this Show: The profound significance of sharing one's personal stories, actively contributing to the normalization of conversations surrounding mental health.The transformative power of vulnerability in fostering empathy and deeper connections.The ripple effect of reframing past experiences on personal growth and healing.The significance of addressing trauma for personal development.How vulnerability can lead to stronger relationships and enhanced well-being.Practical approaches for fostering healthier relationships and embracing a more joyful life.And so much more...Resources:Instagram: @theresa_l_carpenterLinkedIn: Theresa Carpenter, APRᐩMPodcast: S.O.S. (Stories of Service) - Ordinary people who do extraordinary workThe Quest for Happiness:How to Find Meaning in Our Fast-Paced World with Ashish KothariHappinesssquad.com @MyHappinessSquad InstagramAshish Kothari LinkedInAnil Ramjiani LinkedInHappiness Squad Youtube ChannelBooks:Surf When You Can: Lessons in Life, Loyalty, and Leadership from a Maverick Navy CaptainHardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best Life