The Science of Happiness

Many of us avoid chatting with strangers – isn't small talk tedious and dull? Listen as our happiness guinea pig discovers its surprising benefits. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/mr29zv9u

Author Michael Pollan, shares his experiences on being a guinea pig for his new book,  How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/bddxewwm

Did you know what you wanted when you were in high school? Our guest takes on the challenge of figuring out her purpose in life. Transcription: https://tinyurl.com/3be748x8

Would you rather swim with sharks or give a speech before thousands of people? Discover how our happiness guinea pig tackled one of his many fears--and lived to talk about it. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/3zstem4a

Holding on to a grudge? Hear how our happiness guinea pig tried to let go of deep-seated anger and resentment. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/pphybmay

For years, Dan Harris of ABC News was plagued by anxiety, depression, and streaks of anger. Here's how he learned to tame the voices in his head and get 10 percent happier. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/5d625bjp

In hard times, do you seek comfort from others or turn inwards? Find out how our Happiness Guinea Pig emerged from trauma by accepting others' support. Thank you for your emails, calls, and letters! We think your stories will inspire others and we’ll be sharing some of them on the show. So call us at (510) 519-4903 and let us know how doing the Feeling Supported practice went for you! Support for...

Is there someone important you've never properly thanked? Award-winning children's book author, Yuyi Morales, discovers the power of writing a "gratitude letter" to the librarian who changed her life. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/yzbnp9v6

Do memories of your past affect your happiness today? Susannah Cahalan was young and healthy when she was stricken with a mysterious illness. Learn how writing about her “month of madness” in the bestselling book Brain on Fire helped her reclaim her life. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/xeyehswt

Does imagining your future make you more happy--or more anxious?  Our happiness guinea pig looks ahead for inspiration to improve her life now. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/265b34pj

Can you train your brain to be more grateful? Todd Zwillich of The Takeaway takes on the challenge. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/2s336x2a

Are you so stressed that it wears you down physically as well as mentally? Discover how award-winning radio host Krista Tippett brought relief to her mind and body. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/29wdtvkj

Do you dwell on the negative and let moments of joy just pass you by? Discover how the Academy Award-winning director of  Inside Out  got out of his head and savored the good in his life. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/bury2hu9

What should you do when you thought you had it all -- but learn you've had it all wrong? Discover what our happiness guinea pig did to bring more joy and humor into his life. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/4z3snujy

Can 36 questions help you fall in love--and stay in love? Best-selling author Kelly Corrigan tries a research-proven technique to feel closer to her husband. Plus, we learn how the same technique can actually reduce racism and prejudice. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/5aep55b9

Are you too hard on yourself? Our Happiness Guinea Pig spent most of his life behind bars. Discover the research-tested practice that helped him quiet his inner critic. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/2jdjruzd

Do you take the good things in life for granted? You’re not alone, and studies show it's very human. But here’s a way to find more joy in the everyday. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/2khs3b7r

What does it take to live a happier life? Learn research-tested strategies that you can put into practice today. Hosted by award-winning psychologist Dacher Keltner. Co-produced by PRX and UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center. Link to Episode Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/3u5jfpfy