Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast

In this episode of Sero Boost, Sarah sits down with psychotherapist and trauma specialist Sean Chew to unpack the topic of anxiety—how it shows up, how it differs from stress, and the impact it can have on daily life and wellbeing. Sean Chew shares why anxiety is the body’s natural alert system, but can become disruptive if it lingers too long. He also introduces practical strategies to help manag...

Contemplating death is often seen as grim, but emerging research reveals that it can actually enhance our happiness and well-being! So, in this episode of Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella consults social scientist Kimberly Wade-Benzoni on the psychological benefits of facing our mortality, in a world that often evades the topic. An internationally recognized le...

In this episode of Sero Boost, host Sarah Stancombe is joined by guest Mohsen Joshanloo to discover how the fear of happiness is present in every society, and it is more normalized in some than others. Thanks to Mohsen Joshanloo’s culture-based research, we are able to identify the reasons for this fear, and how deeply they are connected to culture. Mohsen Joshanloo is a personality and cross-cult...

Ever wondered how some people bounce back from setbacks stronger and happier than ever? The secret isn’t luck — it’s resilience! So, this week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella interviews resilience coach Gina Vild to discover practical ways to build resilience. An author, thought leader, and speaker, Gina Vild explores the topics of happiness, purpose, and r...

For many people, the lines between work and personal life often blur, leading to stress, burnout, and potentially even a diminished sense of well-being. This episode focuses on values and challenging hustle culture  Dr. Rònké A. Òké guides the conversation on work-life integration. She is a culture strategist, change management expert, and workplace transformation leader. With nearly two decades o...

From the pages of classic literature to the plotlines of modern blockbusters, the concept of revenge has held a longstanding grip on our collective psyche. So, this week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella interviews psychiatry lecturer James Kimmel, Jr., JD to investigate the neuroscience behind revenge. Based at the Yale School of Medicine, James Kimmel, Jr.,...

Imaginary relationships have had a longstanding history of being frowned upon for its perceived juvenility and lack of real-world purpose. Yet, research seems to show otherwise. This week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella consults psychology researcher Naomi Aguiar to learn more. An expert in how children and adults create imaginary relationships for themselv...

As the saying goes, laughter is the best medicine. So, this week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Lu Ngo interviews philosophy professor Dr. Chris A. Kramer to learn about what we can apply to our daily lives based on the works of American orator Frederick Douglass. Based at Santa Barbara City College, Dr. Chris A. Kramer serves as both Assistant Professor and Chair of P...

Ever wondered why some people seem to breeze through life’s challenges, while others struggle with daily inconveniences? The answer just might lie in your locus of control! So, this week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella interviews psychiatrist and psychoanalyst Carrie Barron on how our locus of control contributes to our perspective of happiness. A renowned...

In a world obsessed with quick fixes and temporary pleasures, what if true happiness is actually about something far more profound? This week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Sabrina Oktavelia interviews psychology Assoc. Prof. Matthew Hammerton on what makes life worth living. Having joined Singapore Management University in 2018, Assoc. Prof. Matthew Hammerton speciali...

Our daily lives are often disrupted by our anxious thoughts. How can we stop our anxiety from being joy’s thief? This week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Sabrina Oktavelia interviews Peak Mind: The Center for Psychological Strength co-founder Dr. Ashley Smith on the impact of anxiety on daily joy and how we can handle our anxiety.  An inspiring figure overcoming her ra...

What if the workplace were a sanctuary where wellness isn’t merely a corporate buzzword, but a vibrant culture in which employees flourish? This week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella interviews Quantum Sense founder Pam Buchanan on what soul health is, and how it could revolutionize workplace wellness. Pioneering in soul health innovations, Pam Buchanan and...

In the quiet spaces between our bustling thoughts lies a landscape of spirituality waiting to be explored. This week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella interviews positive living expert Diane Lang,MA, PPC on what it means to cultivate our spirituality. Having dedicated her career to helping people turn their lives around, Diane Lang,MA, PPC is now on a mission...

Join host Lu Ngo as she sits down with naturopathic physician Dr. Jared C. Pistoia to explore how we can overcome mental barriers and reclaim control over our well-being. This episode promises to guide you toward resilience and joy. Dr. Jared C. Pistoia is a licensed naturopathic physician with over 15 years of experience in health and wellness. He is the author of two books and serves as the legi...

What if beauty could be a gateway to spirituality? Join host Lu Ngo as she explores the fascinating connection between beauty and spiritual experiences with Rhett Diessner, an expert in psychology and beauty appreciation. This episode promises to reveal how engaging with the world’s beauty can deepen our spiritual lives and enrich our sense of happiness. Rhett Diessner is Professor Emeritus of Psy...

In this episode of Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, we dive into an often-overlooked emotion: resentment. Host Lu Ngo sits down with Allison Broennimann, Ph. D. to uncover how resentment, when properly understood, can lead to meaningful personal growth. Could embracing negative emotions actually bring us closer to happiness? Allison Broennimann, Ph. D. is a licensed Clinical Psy...

In a world where professional networking often feels daunting, what if the key to success lies in joy? In this episode of Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Lu Ngo delves into the transformative power of joyful networking with the remarkable Dr. Natascha Saunders, Ed. D., CPCC.  As the Founder of The Youth Career Coach Inc. and a Career Coach at Harvard Kennedy School, Dr. Na...

Ever wondered how accepting life’s challenges could lead to greater happiness? Join host Lu Ngo as she explores the transformative power of radical acceptance with TEDx speaker and positive psychology expert Sha-En Yeo (MAPP, CSP).  Sha-En Yeo (MAPP, CSP) is a graduate of the Master of Applied Positive Psychology program at the University of Pennsylvania. As the Founder of Happiness Scientists, sh...

Is true happiness in love found in grand gestures, or does it lie in the everyday moments we often overlook? In this episode of Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, Lu Ngo sits down with Linda Bloom, L.C.S.W., a seasoned psychotherapist and marriage counselor, to explore the beauty of savoring everyday happiness in relationships. Discover how small acts can make a big difference in...

Get ready as host Lu Ngo delves into the awe-inspiring world of existential psychology with Dr. Kirk Schneider. Discover how encounters with excellence can elevate our happiness and transform our lives. Kirk Schneider is a prominent figure in existential-humanistic and existential-integrative psychology. He serves as an adjunct faculty member at Saybrook University and has taught at Teachers Colle...

Ever wondered if there's a better way to balance work and life? On today's episode of Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, Lu Ngo welcomes Melinda Fouts, Ph. D. an expert in the field of executive coaching and emotional intelligence. Get ready to dive into the world of work-life integration and discover how it can reshape your definition of success and happiness! Melinda Fouts, Ph....

Welcome to another episode of Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast with host, Marie Stella Quek. In this episode, we're diving into the world of teamwork and happiness with an expert who knows the ins and outs of creating joyful and high-performing teams. Get ready to boost your serotonin as we explore how stronger social bonds can elevate joy in any team setting! Today, we have the...

Prepare to dive deep into the heart of love and mindfulness with host Lu Ngo and guest Rev. Connie Habash, LMFT. This episode uncovers the secrets to being fully present in our relationships and how this presence can enhance our capacity to love and be loved. Join us for a conversation that blends spirituality and psychology, offering a path to greater happiness. Rev. Connie L. Habash, LMFT is a m...

Are you ready to delve into the science of happiness and the intricate dance of human relationships? In this episode of "Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast," our host, Lu Ngo, invites you to explore the world of social interdependence and romantic relationships. Get ready for an enlightening conversation that will make you rethink how you connect with others and boost your happines...

Ever wondered how grudges might be holding you back from true happiness? Join host Lu Ngo as she unravels the complex psychology of grudges with wellness-driven storyteller Sonya Matejko. This episode promises to reveal transformative insights and practical strategies for breaking free from the chains of resentment and embracing a happier, healthier life. Sonya Matejko is a talented storyteller wi...