The Happiness Squad Podcast with Ashish Kothari

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

In today’s episode, Anil and Ashish sit down with Amy Elizabeth Fox, a person who played a huge role in Ashish’s own transformation.Amy Elizabeth Fox is the co-founder and CEO of Mobius Executive Leadership, a premier firm specializing in transformational leadership. They offer immersive executive development services like experiential leadership sessions, coaching, and retreats. With two decades of experience, she has guided senior leaders from various sectors, including CEOs and Board Chairs of Footsie 100 companies and Fortune 500 team members. She's a pioneer in integrating trauma literacy into vertical leadership development and founded the Next Practice Institute to elevate industry standards.Since 2007, she has been a senior consultant at McKinsey & Company. Starting Fall 2023, she'll be part of the faculty at the University of Chicago's Leadership In Society program and the African Leadership Institute's Tutu Fellows program. In 2024, she'll co-lead a global certificate program for trauma informed consultants and coaches with Thomas Huebl.Throughout the episode, Amy sheds light on the importance of trauma healing for leaders, and how it can unlock their true leadership potential and bring about positive transformation. She shares insightful stories and examples, helping us understand that trauma is not limited to extreme experiences, but rather it encompasses various events that overwhelm us emotionally and linger in our lives.She also talks about the connection between inner health and leadership, understanding how trauma affects our behaviors, decisions, and relationships in the organizational setting. Amy urges leaders to embark on their healing journey and foster a culture that encourages open dialogue and vulnerability, allowing employees to grow and thrive together.Listen now and be inspired to embark on your own path of transformation!What You’ll Learn in this Show:The power of trauma literacy in leadership development.The three layers of the heart chakra and their impact on leadership.How leaders can create a culture of healing and vulnerability.The importance of interdependence and support in the healing journey.Practical steps for organizations to embrace trauma-informed approaches.And so much more...Resources:Traumainformedconsulting.com Happinesssquad.com @MyHappinessSquad InstagramAshish Kothari LinkedInAnil Ramjiani LinkedInHappiness Squad Youtube ChannelBooks:Healing Collective Trauma: A Process for Integrating Our Intergenerational and Cultural Wounds 

Are you stuck in a job or career that doesn't bring you joy? If that's the case, remember that personal growth thrives outside the comfort zone. In today’s episode, Angie Callen joins Anil and Ashish to shed light on why this happens and what steps you can take to change it.As the Founder and Principal of Career Benders, Inc., Angie helps inspire confident professionals through career coaching, job search guidance, resume writing, and employment-to-entrepreneur transitions. A former engineer, Angie specializes in working with technical professionals, high-level managers, and executives to navigate the challenges of the workforce today. Over the past five years, Career Benders has helped over 1,000 individuals across the country realize their true potential and marketability, find career satisfaction, and grow confidently.Additionally, Angie hosts a career-focused podcast called No More Mondays, where she interviews professionals who have wisdom on breaking down career barriers and provide actionable takeaways to help take charge of your Monday Blues and beat your Sunday Scaries.In this episode you will find out how to navigate a career crisis, discover your true purpose, and find meaning in your professional life.Angie will share her journey from engineer in the corporate world to career coach and how she helps clients unlock their potential for career satisfaction.You will also learn practical strategies to transition from a mindset of 'this is happening to me' to 'this is happening for me' during career challenges.Listen now and enjoy!What You’ll Learn in this Show:The importance of stopping and evaluating during career crises.How to align your work with the life you want to have.The significance of understanding your definition of career growth and happiness.How to discover your passions and bridge them with reality.The power of retreats and masterminds in achieving career transformation.Strategies to shift from a success-driven mentality to a significance-driven mindset.And so much more...Resources:Careerbenders.com NO MORE MONDAYS podcastThe 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:The Storyteller: Tales of Life and Music Hardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best Life

Are you clear on your path to purpose, inner peace, and healing? In today’s episode, Anil and Ashish sit down with Raj Sisodia to shed light and clarity on that very question.Raj is the FEMSA Distinguished University Professor of Conscious Enterprise and Chairman of the Conscious Enterprise Center at Tecnologico de Monterrey in Mexico. He is also a Co-Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Conscious Capitalism Inc. With a Ph.D. in Business from Columbia University, Raj has authored fifteen books, including bestsellers like "Conscious Capitalism", "Everybody Matters" and the most recent one, “Awaken.”His extensive consulting and teaching portfolio spans companies like AT&T, Verizon, Whole Foods, Tata, Walmart, and more. Raj's influence extends to prestigious awards and board memberships. Tune in to gain insights from his vast experience and wisdom.Throughout the episode, Raj shares his transformative journey from a traditional business professor to a passionate advocate for conscious capitalism and healing organizations. He discusses his evolution, exploring consciousness, the integration of masculine and feminine energies, and the realization that businesses can thrive while reducing suffering in the world.They also discuss the essence of happiness and Raj's insights into the teachings of Viktor Frankl. The conversation emphasizes the importance of embracing vulnerability and authenticity as individuals seek to uncover their unique paths.You will learn how to cultivate self-awareness, identify heartbreaks and joys, and embark on a journey of purpose that aligns with your essence. Raj's insights inspire a shift from pursuing profits to pursuing purpose, from grabbing and going to giving and growing. Listen now and embark on a journey of self-discovery, purpose, and authentic connection.What You’ll Learn in this Show:Uncovering your purpose through experiencing heartbreaks and joys.The role of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership and organizational transformation.The power of embracing uniqueness and cultivating self-awareness.Insights into conscious leadership and the healing potential of organizations.Connecting purpose, inner peace, and healing in your personal and professional life.And so much more...Resources:Website: Rajsisodia.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/RajSisodiaCCLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajendrasisodia/Center for Positive Organizations - University of MichiganHappinesssquad.com @MyHappinessSquad InstagramAshish Kothari LinkedInAnil Ramjiani LinkedInHappiness Squad Youtube ChannelBooks:AWAKEN: The Path to Purpose, Inner Peace, and HealingThe Healing OrganizationConscious CapitalismAll Books Written by Raj Sisodia: http://rajsisodia.com/books.html Man's Search For MeaningSynchronicity: The Inner Path of LeadershipHardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best Life

Have you ever experienced an ‘awegasm?’ Get ready because by the time this episode is done, you will be able to mega-dose. In today's episode, Anil and Ashish sit down with Dr. Michael Amster, a physician and faculty member at the Toronto School of Medicine with over 20 years of experience as a pain management specialist. Michael is a firm believer in the power of awe and has conducted extensive research in this space. He co-authored the book "The Power of Awe," which delves into the integration of mind, body, and spirit and the profound effects of awe on our health and well-being.Throughout the episode, Michael shares his personal journey and how he shifted his definition of happiness over the years. He highlights the importance of living in a state of wonder and gratitude and how micro-doses of awe in our everyday lives can create profound happiness. Michael also introduces the A.W.E. method, a simple three-step process to access moments of awe in the ordinary, and explains how it can positively impact our physiology and overall well-being.During the conversation, Michael and the hosts discuss the contagious nature of awe and its potential to change communities and the world. They emphasize how practicing awe can foster a greater sense of connection, love, and understanding among individuals, leading to positive changes in the world.Join in and discover how awe can transform your life, and learn how to develop your own awe practice to reap its numerous benefits. Tune in now and enjoy this inspiring episode!What You’ll Learn in this Show:The AWE method and how it can be easily incorporated into daily life.The profound impact of awe on our physiology and overall health.The results of research studies showing the positive effects of practicing awe.The ripple effect of awe on individuals and communities, fostering love and connection.Practical advice on cultivating happiness through awe and gratitude.And so much more...Resources:Website: Thepowerofawe.com Instagram: @thepowerofawebookFacebook: The Power of AWETikTok: @thepowerofaweLliveconscious.com Happinesssquad.com @MyHappinessSquad InstagramAshish Kothari LinkedInAnil Ramjiani LinkedInHappiness Squad Youtube ChannelBooks:The Power of Awe: Overcome Burnout & Anxiety, Ease Chronic Pain, Find Clarity & PurposeHow We Choose to Be Happy: The 9 Choices of Extremely Happy People--Their Secrets, Their Stories Hardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best LifeTV ShowSchitt's Creek

Are you ready to explore why you should never give up seeking? In today’s episode, Anil and Ashish sit down with Amy Edelstein, an author, educator, and nonprofit leader, as they delve into her transformative experiences and the impact of her work in inner city schools. Amy shares her story and how her practices have helped unlock flourishing within the lives of teen students in one of the poorest cities in the United States. With over 40 years of experience, Amy is the founder and executive director of the nonprofit Inner Strength Education, which has empowered more than 22,000 inner-city high school students with mindfulness and systems thinking. In this episode, they talk about the meaning of happiness and how it has evolved for Amy, the profound connection with all living things, and the sense of unity that brings happiness. Amy discusses the importance of recognizing our interconnectedness, the challenges and opportunities in inner-city education, and the impact of mindfulness practices on students' lives. You’ll learn about the transformative power of mindfulness, emotional regulation, and self-awareness, and how these practices can support personal growth and empower individuals. Amy also guides listeners through a beautiful three-minute meditation to cultivate calm curiosity and care. Tune in to discover the inspiring journey of Amy Edelstein and gain insights into the importance of trust, love, and personal exploration in finding fulfillment.What You’ll Learn in this Show:The significance of unity and interconnectedness in finding happiness.Transformative experiences and the importance of never giving up seeking.The impact of mindfulness practices on inner-city students.Emotional regulation and self-awareness for personal growth.Cultivating trust and love in one's journey towards fulfillment.And so much more...Resources:Amyedelstein.com Innerstrengtheducation.org LinkedIn: Amy EdelsteinMy Happiness Squad InstagramAshish Kothari LinkedInAnil Ramjiani LinkedInHappiness Squad Youtube ChannelBooks:Hardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best LifeBOOKS BY AMY EDELSTEIN: https://amyedelstein.com/books 

Would you like to be the architect of your own happiness and live a wholehearted life? All experiences are learning experiences, especially those that stem from tragedies and dark places.Anil and Ashish sit down with Brad McLain, founder of Designing Transformative Experiences and a renowned social scientist, specializing in identity development, learning, and leadership. Brad shares his own story as well as insights that can unlock the possibility of living a wholehearted life.In this episode, he talks about the meaning of happiness and how it evolved for him over time. He delves into the concept of being the author of your own life narratives and the importance of self-actualization. Brad reveals the seven elements of transformative experiences according to his ELVIS model and discusses how risk and discomfort can lead to personal growth and happiness. He also explores the power of narrating our experiences and shaping our identity narratives.Brad shares his personal transformative experiences, including the impact of an inspiring teacher and his journey through a cancer diagnosis. He highlights the significance of choice, agency, and making meaning out of challenging circumstances. The conversation uncovers the importance of vulnerability and having open conversations about living a wholehearted life.Listen now and enjoy as Brad McLain provides practical guidance on designing transformative experiences, embracing risk, and narrating our lives to unlock our own flourishing.What You’ll Learn in this Show:The meaning of happiness and its evolution for Brad.Becoming the author of your own life narratives.The seven elements of transformative experiences according to the ELVIS model.Embracing risk and discomfort as catalysts for personal growth.The power of narrating experiences and shaping identity narratives.Practical tips for unlocking your own flourishing.And so much more...Resources:Designingtransformativeexperiences.com LinkedIn: Brad McLainVeronica Love | Powerful Tools To Wake You UpMy Happiness Squad InstagramAshish Kothari LinkedInAnil Ramjiani LinkedInHappiness Squad Youtube ChannelBooks:Hardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best LifeDesigning Transformative Experiences: A Toolkit for Leaders, Trainers, Teachers, and other Experience Designers Byline : Brad McLain, PhD 

Imagine leading your company with a profound focus on the values and well-being of your employees. By nurturing a culture of engagement and prioritizing their growth, you witness remarkable results. The genuine care you invest in your workforce drives organic growth and cultivates a thriving organization. As revenues surge, your company becomes an inspiring example of the transformative power of employee-centric leadership.In today's episode, Anil and Ashish sit down with Patrick Criteser, the President and CEO of the Tillamook County Creamery Association, who shares his insights on leading with values and building a flourishing organization. Patrick's impressive track record includes increasing revenue by over 50% and transforming Tillamook into one of the leading consumer food brands in the US.During their conversation, they dive into the importance of relationships, the success of initiatives focused on amplifying core values, and the impact of organizational flourishing on productivity, growth, and innovation. Patrick also reveals his personal routines that help him stay aligned with his practices on a monthly basis.Discover how building a strong culture rooted in genuine care and continuous development can drive business success and create a fulfilling and enriching employee experience. Learn from Patrick's experiences and gain valuable insights into creating a human-centric, caring culture that prioritizes well-being while achieving exceptional results.Listen now to this enlightening episode and unlock the secrets of leading with values, fostering employee flourishing, and building a thriving organization.What You'll Learn in this Show:The transformative power of placing values and employee well-being at the forefront of your organizationStrategies to amplify core values and create a culture that drives productivity, growth, and innovationPractical routines and practices for staying aligned with your values and fostering a flourishing environmentThe connection between personal happiness, relationships, and professional successInsights into creating a human-centric, caring culture that prioritizes well-being for exceptional results.And so much more...Resources:Tillamook.com Happinesssquad.com My Happiness Squad InstagramAshish Kothari LinkedInAnil Ramjiani LinkedInHappiness Squad Youtube ChannelBooks:Hardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best LifeThe Top Five Regrets of the Dying: A Life Transformed by the Dearly Departing