The Happiness Lab podcast: a preview from Cal Newport

Executive overview

Our minds consistently misjudge what will make us happy. Yale professor Dr. Laurie Santos applies behavioural science to practical well-being questions across each episode.

Season topics include why small doses of fear and pain can feel rewarding, how friendship and exercise intersect, and whether the YOLO philosophy actually delivers.

Evidence-based strategies, not intuition, are the reliable path to a more joyful life.

Season themes and guests

  • Small doses of fear, sadness, and pain can feel unexpectedly good — the season investigates why
  • Gym-based social bonding as a way to build friendship outside traditional settings
  • Modern parenting examined: are well-intentioned parents doing too much?
  • YOLO philosophy scrutinised — Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart explains its limits
  • U.S. Surgeon General and researchers on practical happiness science
  • A woman who relocated to a remote, cold location in pursuit of happiness
  • Expert tip: happiness is like blackjack — you can stack the deck in your favour

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