Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

Rick Hanson, Ph.D., Forrest Hanson

Forrest Hanson is joined by clinical psychologist Dr. Rick Hanson and a world-class group of experts to explore the practical science of lasting well-being. Conversations focus on the key insights from psychology, science, and contemplative practice that you need to build reliable inner strengths, overcome your challenges, and get the most out of life. New episodes every Monday.

Protecting Yourself from Narcissistic People with Dr. Ramani Durvasula

Protecting Yourself from Narcissistic People with Dr. Ramani Durvasula

Dr. Ramani Durvasula, one of the world’s leading experts on narcissism and narcissistic abuse, joins Forrest to help us learn how to understand, identify, and recover from relationships with narcissistic people. They start by discussing the traits associated with narcissism, the spectrum of narcissistic behaviors, and Dr. Ramani’s critiques of the NPD diagnosis. They then talk about different kinds of narcissism and why narcissists can be difficult to identify before moving on to the issues with

Feb 24, • 1:22:34

What to Do When Your Worst Fears Come True: Mailbag

What to Do When Your Worst Fears Come True: Mailbag

Dr. Rick and Forrest open up the mailbag and answer questions from listeners, many of which focused on anxiety experiences. They start by discussing “dreaded experiences,” and how we can respond when our worst fears come true. Rick then shares how we can respond effectively to feedback, before answering a short question about taking in the good. Forrest and Rick then answer three questions related to different kinds of anxiety: social anxiety, managing different levels of concern in a relationsh

Feb 17, • 1:01:16

Learning to Trust Yourself: How to Stop Self-Abandonment

Learning to Trust Yourself: How to Stop Self-Abandonment

In this special episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest explore how we can become more self-reliant, and learn to trust ourselves. This helps us be resilient in the face of life’s challenges, and it’s a key resource for people who tend to abandon their wants and needs. They start by discussing why some people struggle with self-trust, the difference between inside-out and outside-in safety, and changing the model we have of ourselves. Forrest introduces a framework for developing self-trust based on self-

Feb 10, • 1:08:57

Everything I've Learned (so far): A Guide to Personal Growth

Everything I've Learned (so far): A Guide to Personal Growth

In this special episode, Forrest focuses on the key lessons from 400 episodes of Being Well, giving you a crash course in personal growth and development. If you’re just getting into the show, or are looking for a good episode to share with people who are new to this kind of content, this is a great place to start. You can watch this episode on YouTube.Key Topics:0:00: Introduction1:10: Change is possible, but change is hard3:00: Focus on what you can control4:30: The consistency princi

Feb 3, • 57:46

Letting Go: Rumination, Breakups, and How to Stop Feeling Attached

Letting Go: Rumination, Breakups, and How to Stop Feeling Attached

Forrest and Dr. Rick focus on one of life's most challenging but essential skills - letting go. Whether you're trying to break free from repetitive thoughts, move on from a relationship, or change an old pattern of behavior, this episode will help you learn how to release what no longer serves you. They start by exploring why letting go is so difficult, the nature of the brain and how it gets in our way, and how to start opening up to a new way of being. They then discuss different prac

Jan 27, • 1:00:52

Healing Attachment Wounds with Elizabeth Ferreira

Healing Attachment Wounds with Elizabeth Ferreira

Attachment wounds are emotional injuries that develop based on painful experiences with those we care about. These experiences create a kind of blueprint we carry around for how relationships work, and when that internal model is based on fear and pain, it's hard for our relationships to thrive. Somatic therapist Elizabeth Ferreira joins the show to help us understand how we can heal old wounds and develop more secure forms of relating.Elizabeth and Forrest explore how early experiences

Jan 20, • 1:19:15

Limerence, Love, and Life Transitions: January Mailbag

Limerence, Love, and Life Transitions: January Mailbag

Dr. Rick and Forrest begin the mailbag by exploring limerence – an obsessive form of romantic attraction – and offer practical recommendations for working with one-sided infatuation. They then discuss what to do when romantic vulnerability feels unsafe, and how we can rebuild trust in others after traumatic experiences. The episode also tackles managing career transitions, dealing with social anxiety around positive interactions, and maintaining boundaries without being consumed by ange

Jan 13, • 1:06:42

Navigating Situationships: How to Get What You Really Want

Navigating Situationships: How to Get What You Really Want

Forrest and Dr. Rick explore "situationships" – those poorly defined, boundary-free relationships that exist in a gray area between friendship and committed dating. They unpack why these arrangements have become so common, examine the emotional trade-offs that keep people stuck, and share how to reclaim a sense of agency and build more authentic connections. The episode includes a role-play where Forrest plays someone struggling with situationships, while Dr. Rick draws on his decades o

Jan 6, • 1:07:30

Beyond Resolutions: Discover What You Want in 2025

Beyond Resolutions: Discover What You Want in 2025

Why do New Year's resolutions usually fail by February? Forrest and Dr. Rick explore why traditional goal-setting falls short and offer a new approach to creating lasting change. They discuss how we can uncover our authentic wants and needs, move away from a punishment mindset, and use our new knowledge to find fulfillment. This episode will teach you how to get more out of any other New Year’s content you listen to. Rick and Forrest walk through a practical example of brain dumping “sh

Dec 30, 2024 • 1:16:04

Attachment Masterclass: Sue Johnson, Rick Hanson, Julie Mennano, and Elizabeth Ferreira

Attachment Masterclass: Sue Johnson, Rick Hanson, Julie Mennano, and Elizabeth Ferreira

Why do some people navigate the social world with such ease while others feel like they're swimming upstream? In this special episode of Being Well, Forrest is joined by four leading experts for a masterclass on the science of attachment. Featuring conversations with Dr. Sue Johnson, Dr. Rick Hanson, Julie Mennano, and Elizabeth Ferreira, this carefully curated episode gives you a map to becoming more socially confident, emotionally intelligent, and authentically connected. Topics inclu

Dec 23, 2024 • 2:01:45

Working with Your Parts: Complex PTSD, Dissociation, and Hypervigilance with Elizabeth Ferreira

Working with Your Parts: Complex PTSD, Dissociation, and Hypervigilance with Elizabeth Ferreira

Somatic therapist Elizabeth Ferreira joins the show to discuss complex trauma, dissociation, and working with challenging emotions. Forrest and Elizabeth start by exploring the relationship between Internal Family Systems and somatic therapy, including how we can apply a somatic lens to working with our parts. They then apply that framework to complex PTSD, cognitive bypassing, emotional numbing, hypervigilance, and other difficult experiences. Other topics include issues around compari

Dec 16, 2024 • 1:20:32

Anxious and Avoidant in Relationship: The Pursuer-Distancer Dynamic

Anxious and Avoidant in Relationship: The Pursuer-Distancer Dynamic

We all have different needs for closeness and distance, for intimacy and independence. You might have heard terms like anxious or avoidant attachment to describe this, and these tendencies can create challenges - particularly when people with different needs try to relate to each other. In this episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest explore why we're drawn to people who activate our insecurities, how anxiety manifests differently in "pursuers" versus "distancers," and what we can all do to work

Dec 9, 2024 • 1:21:51

Why We Don’t Change (and what you can do about it) with Dr. Ross Ellenhorn

Why We Don’t Change (and what you can do about it) with Dr. Ross Ellenhorn

Why does change feel so difficult, even when we desperately want it? Dr. Ross Ellenhorn joins the show to explore our resistance to change, and the many good reasons we might have to stay just as we are. Forrest and Dr. Ellenhorn discuss the “fear of hope,” the allure of sameness, and what actually helps people develop the confidence to make meaningful changes in their lives. Topics include challenging conventional self-help wisdom, existential dread, dealing with disappointment, major

Dec 2, 2024 • 1:17:18

Now What? What to Do When Things Fall Apart

Now What? What to Do When Things Fall Apart

Life has a way of throwing unexpected curveballs: a sudden job loss, a relationship ending, a health crisis, or losing faith in something. These moments can leave us feeling overwhelmed, lost, and unsure of how to move forward. In this episode, Forrest and Dr. Rick explore a practical framework for navigating life's most challenging transitions. They break down the essential steps for finding your footing when things fall apart: managing the initial emotional impact, steadying yourself,

Nov 25, 2024 • 1:11:51

How to Make Good Choices: A System for Decision Making

How to Make Good Choices: A System for Decision Making

We all have to make big choices in life, but it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when facing major decisions about careers, relationships, or personal growth. In this episode, Forrest and Rick Hanson explore how to develop a reliable system for making choices that align with your values and goals. They break down balancing analysis with intuition, the five key decision-making styles, and common obstacles that lead to poor choices. The episode also includes two live demonstrations of working t

Nov 18, 2024 • 1:31:41

Healthy Productivity with Cal Newport

Healthy Productivity with Cal Newport

We’re tired, burnt out, and searching for a reprieve from hustle culture. Something needs to change if we’re going to get to real productivity: doing that is meaningful and fulfilling rather than just checking boxes off an endless to-do list. On today’s episode, Cal Newport joins the podcast to explore slow productivity, deep work, and how we can achieve more by doing less.About our Guest: Cal is a computer science professor at Georgetown University and the bestselling author of eight b

Nov 11, 2024 • 1:31:34

Attachment, Boundaries, and Finding Yourself: Relationship Mailbag

Attachment, Boundaries, and Finding Yourself: Relationship Mailbag

Dr. Rick and Forrest answer listener questions focused on navigating relationship challenges. They explore how to rediscover yourself after a codependent relationship, distinguish between healthy and unhealthy desires, maintain friendships after romantic feelings emerge, overcome self-consciousness in social interactions, and communicate effectively during stress responses. Whether you're healing from a breakup, working through attachment issues, or seeking to build more authentic conne

Nov 4, 2024 • 1:09:24

Healing Your Inner Child

Healing Your Inner Child

We all have an "inner child:” the part of ourselves that carries the emotions, beliefs and experiences from our early years. While this aspect of ourselves can be a source of creativity, playfulness and wonder, it might also harbor unresolved wounds that affect our adult relationships and behaviors. In this episode, Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore what the inner child really is, how it manifests in our lives, and practical ways to work with this important part of ourselves. They discuss

Oct 28, 2024 • 1:34:14

The Anxiety Toolkit: How to Tolerate Uncertainty with Joshua Fletcher

The Anxiety Toolkit: How to Tolerate Uncertainty with Joshua Fletcher

Anxiety is something we all experience from time to time, and because it’s so common it can be easy to take it lightly. But anxiety dominates the lives of many people, and in this episode psychotherapist Joshua Fletcher joins Forrest for an in-depth exploration of anxiety. They talk about the anxiety cycle, moving away from thinking in terms of a “cure,” and the key target of the “willful tolerance of uncertainty.” Josh also shares insights on exposure therapy, managing self-criticism,

Oct 21, 2024 • 1:11:47

Self-Compassion: How to Make it Work For You with Dr. Chris Germer

Self-Compassion: How to Make it Work For You with Dr. Chris Germer

Why do so many people seem to resist self-compassion? Dr. Chris Germer, co-creator of the Mindful Self-Compassion program, joins Forrest to explore how we can work with the deeply ingrained shame that gets in the way.Dr. Germer shares common misunderstandings about self-compassion, and they discuss the complex interplay between shame, self-criticism, and our capacity for self-care. Forrest focuses on the paradox of self-compassion: how approaching it as a “solution to your problems” act

Oct 14, 2024 • 1:10:06

Understanding and Overcoming Social Anxiety: Attachment, Exposure, and Confidence

Understanding and Overcoming Social Anxiety: Attachment, Exposure, and Confidence

In this episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest explore the all-too-common challenge of social anxiety. They break down what it really means to be socially anxious (hint: it's not just being shy), where those feelings come from, and why they stick around. Rick explains the roots of social anxiety, highlighting the role of attachment styles and individual temperament, before Forrest shares how to locate yourself on a spectrum from everyday nervousness to Social Anxiety Disorder. They then discuss

Oct 7, 2024 • 1:26:15

Feed Drop: Exploring the Benefits of Peer-Based and Family Therapy - Turning Points Podcast

Feed Drop: Exploring the Benefits of Peer-Based and Family Therapy - Turning Points Podcast

In our first feed drop, we’re sharing the first episode of Season 4 of the Turning Points Podcast. The host of Turning Points is therapist Frantzces Lys, and in this episode she explores family and peer-based approaches to therapy. Frantzces is joined by two guests, first Charles Daniels, the CEO and co-founder of Fathers’ Uplift, an organization that provides therapy, coaching, and advocacy for fathers. And second, Gina Connor, a clinical social worker who specializes treating eating d

Oct 2, 2024 • 36:22

The Dark Triad: Dealing with Narcissists, Sociopaths, and Other Toxic People

The Dark Triad: Dealing with Narcissists, Sociopaths, and Other Toxic People

Dr. Rick and Forrest unpack the "Dark Triad" of personality traits - narcissism, Machiavellianism, and sociopathy - and explore how these traits can manifest in everyday relationships. They talk about how individuals with these tendencies use charm and manipulation to control situations and people, and offer practical strategies for identifying these traits in others. You’ll learn how to set boundaries, protect yourself from manipulation, and develop a thoughtful, empathetic approach wh

Sep 30, 2024 • 1:15:17

How to Build a Securely Attached Relationship with Julie Menanno

How to Build a Securely Attached Relationship with Julie Menanno

Forrest sits down with marriage and family therapist Julie Menanno to explore one of the most crucial aspects of healthy relationships: secure attachment. They discuss the impact of anxious, avoidant, and secure attachment patterns, and provide practical advice on identifying and communicating attachment needs, fostering emotional safety, and addressing the common anxious-avoidant partner dynamic. Julie highlights the importance of emotional validation and recommends strategies for comm

Sep 23, 2024 • 1:09:16

Social Anxiety, Self-Advocacy, and Too Much Self-Help: September Mailbag

Social Anxiety, Self-Advocacy, and Too Much Self-Help: September Mailbag

Dr. Rick and Forrest dive into the mailbag, and answer questions from listeners focused on working with anxiety in ourselves and our relationships. They start with a question that’s essential to the podcast as a whole: is it possible to be too preoccupied with personal growth? Rick talks about how to manage the desire for approval, offering strategies to foster self-acceptance and healthier self-validation, before Forrest shares his own journey with finding the right amount of try-hard. They the

Sep 16, 2024 • 1:13:44

Cognitive Bypassing, Traumatic Experiences, and Managing Triggers with Simone Saunders

Cognitive Bypassing, Traumatic Experiences, and Managing Triggers with Simone Saunders

Forrest dives into cognitive bypassing - a common strategy many of us use to avoid feeling difficult emotions - with trauma therapist Simone Saunders. Simone and Forrest discuss the connection between cognitive bypassing and trauma before exploring somatic tools that can help us avoid an endless cycle of overthinking, and fully process our experiences. They focus on the “freeze” and “fawn” stress responses, and talk about how these responses can impact our relationships and everyday int

Sep 9, 2024 • 1:06:47

Navigating Parenthood: What Every Dad Needs to Know

Navigating Parenthood: What Every Dad Needs to Know

In this special conversation, Forrest explores what it means to be a good father with his dad, clinical psychologist Dr. Rick Hanson. They discuss the joys, challenges, and unexpected lessons of parenthood, starting with the advice Rick would have given himself. Rick and Forrest tackle the mental health challenges new parents face, focusing particularly on maintaining a strong relationship between partners. They get real about their relationship, and Rick offers practical strategies for

Sep 2, 2024 • 1:17:50

How to Live in an Anxious World: Uncertainty, Agency, and Resilience

How to Live in an Anxious World: Uncertainty, Agency, and Resilience

In this timely episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest tackle the anxiety and uncertainty so many are feeling about the state of today’s world. They discuss why everything feels so overwhelming right now, share practical ways to manage those emotions, and explore how we can stay grounded, take ownership of what we can control, and maintain a sense of connection with others. Topics include managing uncertainty, wise skepticism, developing agency, accepting impermanence, and understanding grief as

Aug 26, 2024 • 1:06:45

Embracing Perfectionism with Katherine Morgan Schafler

Embracing Perfectionism with Katherine Morgan Schafler

Forrest explores how we can harness perfectionism’s strengths without getting captured by its vulnerabilities with therapist and author Katherine Morgan Schafler. They talk about perfectionism’s bad branding, and how our relationship with perfectionism can lead to it being either a superpower or a stumbling block. They discuss the different types of perfectionists, the limitations of defining perfectionism merely as a defense against criticism, and the importance of shifting our languag

Aug 19, 2024 • 1:20:00

The Shadow: Individuation, Wholeness, and Becoming Your True Self

The Shadow: Individuation, Wholeness, and Becoming Your True Self

Dr. Rick and Forrest explore one of the most interesting concepts in psychology: Carl Jung’s concept of the shadow. The shadow includes the “the things a person has no wish to be,” the uncomfortable aspects of ourselves that we deny or ignore. Facing those parts can be difficult, but becoming aware of the shadow, accepting it, and integrating it allows us to embrace all of who we are. They start by explaining what the shadow is, where it comes from, and why it’s valuable. Rick shares so

Aug 12, 2024 • 1:08:51

Dealing with Other People’s Defenses

Dealing with Other People’s Defenses

Forrest and Dr. Rick tackle the tricky topic of dealing with other people’s psychological defenses. It’s often easier to see other people’s defenses than to see our own, which can make them particularly frustrating to deal with. In this episode, Rick and Forrest explore the psychological and communication skills that will allow you to have more successful conversations.They start with a quick summary of what psychological defenses are and how they operate, before talking about recognizi

Aug 5, 2024 • 1:14:35

If You’re “Too Self-Aware,” Listen to This

If You’re “Too Self-Aware,” Listen to This

Have you ever felt like you knew yourself a little too well? While self-awareness is usually helpful, it can sometimes lead to overwhelm, anxiety, confusion, and self-consciousness. In this episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest explore what we can do if we feel like we’re “too self-aware.” They begin by identifying some of the issues that can arise with self-awareness, differentiating it from self-consciousness, and highlighting how conflict between different parts can stop us from becoming who

Jul 29, 2024 • 1:12:15

How to Get Out of a Depressed Mood

How to Get Out of a Depressed Mood

About 30% of people will experience depression at some point in their lives, and most of us know what a depressed mood feels like. Because depressive episodes are common, there’s no lack of good advice out there. But depression is so challenging in part because it attacks our ability to do anything about it. Depression saps our energy, is demotivating, and makes it difficult to actually put that good advice into practice. In this episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest explore what we can do abou

Jul 22, 2024 • 1:06:55

Why You’re Stuck, and How to Fix It

Why You’re Stuck, and How to Fix It

Most of us have gone through a time in life when it felt like we were stuck: unable to deal with our issues, change in useful ways, or make our lives the way we wanted them to be. It’s often not for lack of trying. You read the books, you followed the exercises, you maybe even saw a therapist…but it just didn’t help. On today’s episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest explore why this happens, and what we can do about it. Rick shares a simple framework we can approach change through before Forrest

Jul 15, 2024 • 1:17:16

Depression and Self-Care, Accepting Love, and Building Stronger Relationships: July Mailbag

Depression and Self-Care, Accepting Love, and Building Stronger Relationships: July Mailbag

Dr. Rick and Forrest open the mailbag and answer questions focused on strengthening our relationships. They explore how we can support friends and loved ones who are experiencing depression while also caring for ourselves, managing different levels of capacity within a relationship, maintaining self-worth and trust in the context of body image insecurities, and navigating the often tricky dynamics of a partner’s relationship with their ex. The episode closes with Rick and Forrest sharing how the

Jul 8, 2024 • 1:14:07

How to Become a Disciplined Person

How to Become a Disciplined Person

If we want to accomplish something in life it usually takes a combination of motivation and consistency - in other words, discipline. Discipline is both essential…and shockingly hard to develop. In today’s episode, Forrest and Dr. Rick explore how we can become more disciplined. They talk about whether discipline came naturally to Rick, and the lessons we can learn from his journey with discipline. Key topics include how to make even frustrating tasks rewarding, the relationship between

Jul 1, 2024 • 1:05:36

Psychological Defenses: How to Understand (and change) Your Mind and Behavior

Psychological Defenses: How to Understand (and change) Your Mind and Behavior

Psychological defenses are subconscious strategies we use to protect ourselves from uncomfortable emotions, and they exert a hidden power over our behavior. From denial and repression to projection and rationalization, Dr. Rick and Forrest explore how these defenses shape our actions, influence our relationships, and affect our overall well-being.They start with the function and structure of most defenses, before giving a few simple examples. Rick then dives into the role of defenses in

Jun 24, 2024 • 1:23:09

The Fawn Response: People Pleasing, Self-Abandonment, and Standing Up for Yourself

The Fawn Response: People Pleasing, Self-Abandonment, and Standing Up for Yourself

Dr. Rick and Forrest finish their series on the stress responses with the fawn response: an appeasement strategy where we manage stressful situations by giving others what they want. Rick and Forrest start by discussing common symptoms, including people pleasing, self-abandonment, difficulty saying no, weak boundaries, and chronic self-sacrifice. They talk about the roots of the fawn response and its connection to complex PTSD before exploring people pleasing in detail. In the second ha

Jun 17, 2024 • 1:11:51

 How to Create a Secure Relationship with Elizabeth Ferreira

How to Create a Secure Relationship with Elizabeth Ferreira

Somatic trauma therapist Elizabeth Ferreira joins Forrest to explore how we can create more secure relationships. They talk about the lessons they've learned from their relationship, the impact of trauma and prior relationship wounds, and how very different people can make things work. Topics include complex PTSD, how to work through disagreements, changing our model of relationships, and learning how to actually support your partner.I loved this conversation, and hope you enjoy it!You

Jun 10, 2024 • 52:43

Becoming Self-Confident, Learning Healthy Relationship Skills, and Trusting Yourself: June Mailbag

Becoming Self-Confident, Learning Healthy Relationship Skills, and Trusting Yourself: June Mailbag

Dr. Rick and Forrest open up the mailbag and answer questions from listeners. They explore how to deal with chronically negative people, managing avoidant tendencies that get in the way of us finding a great relationship, and separating normal desires for support from more problematic ones. They then talk about how we can build self-confidence and become more internally referenced, before closing the episode with a sticky situation involving supporting an aging parent. If you’d like to

Jun 3, 2024 • 1:08:13

The Psychology of Manifesting: How to Create the Life You Want

The Psychology of Manifesting: How to Create the Life You Want

Forrest and Dr. Rick explore “manifesting:” the idea that our thoughts impact the world around us, and by changing those thoughts we can change our lives. Talking about manifesting is complicated, because on the one hand our thoughts really do matter. On the other, manifesting is closely tied to a small mountain of problematic pseudoscience. They discuss and debate some of the issues with manifesting and the law of attraction before focusing on how to apply key psychological principles

May 27, 2024 • 1:21:14

Understanding the “Flight” Response: Anxiety, Avoidance, and Feeling Safe

Understanding the “Flight” Response: Anxiety, Avoidance, and Feeling Safe

Dr. Rick and Forrest discuss the “flight” response to stress, which includes feelings of anxiety and fear, avoidant behavior, and an underlying sense of insecurity. They explore the emotions and behaviors associated with the flight response, and how we can build up a stronger, more secure sense of who we are. Rick shares some practical tools that will help you change your self-concept, safely apply principles from graduated exposure, and feel safer from the inside-out.I’ve loved this se

May 20, 2024 • 1:17:45

Managing The “Fight” Response: Anger, Repression, and Self-Regulation

Managing The “Fight” Response: Anger, Repression, and Self-Regulation

Dr. Rick and Forrest continue their series on the stress responses with the “fight” response to stress. They explore anger, repression, and the balance of self-expression and self-regulation before talking about how we can claim the adaptive aspects of the fight response without falling prey to its more problematic aspects. A major focus of the episode is resentment and repression, alongside related topics like empowering yourself, managing expectations, and “experiencing out.”You can w

May 13, 2024 • 1:08:58

Everything You Need to Know About Therapy

Everything You Need to Know About Therapy

In this mega-episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest Hanson explore everything you need to know about therapy. They share how you can get more from therapy, finding the approach that’s right for you, and some perspectives on why therapy is so expensive. They then run through the five major schools of Western psychotherapy before discussing a few alternative modalities. You’ll learn how long to stick with a therapist before looking for alternatives, questions to ask a

May 6, 2024 • 1:32:05

Healing After Trauma with Dr. Peter Levine

Healing After Trauma with Dr. Peter Levine

Somatic psychology legend Dr. Peter Levine joins Dr. Rick and Forrest to explore how we can use body-based approaches to recover from traumatic experiences. Peter uses his personal history with trauma to illustrate the practices he’s taught to thousands of people through his work. They discuss the importance of resourcing experiences, creating safety, developing interoception, abandonment wounds, bringing a diverse perspective to somatic work, and working with shame. Please be aware tha

Apr 29, 2024 • 57:37

Recovering from a Challenging Childhood: Reclaim, Resupply, and Repair

Recovering from a Challenging Childhood: Reclaim, Resupply, and Repair

Dr. Rick and Forrest explore a huge topic: what can we do to recover from a difficult childhood as an adult? Rick introduces a three step process that can help us reclaim our past, identify the key needs we have these days, and internalize related positive experiences. They discuss related tools from psychology like releasing repressed emotions, claiming agency where we can, and changing what we emphasize in the story of our lives. If you had a hard time growing up, this one’s for you.Y

Apr 22, 2024 • 1:09:14

Dealing with Emotionally Immature People (and Parents) with Dr. Lindsay Gibson

Dealing with Emotionally Immature People (and Parents) with Dr. Lindsay Gibson

Dr. Lindsay Gibson joins the podcast to share her groundbreaking work on emotional maturity. Forrest and Dr. Gibson explore how growing up with emotionally immature caregivers can affect our adult relationships, and what we can do to recover from these experiences, build healthier patterns, and disentangle from emotionally immature people. They start by discussing what emotional immaturity means, some of its key characteristics, and the consequences of growing up with emotionally immatu

Apr 15, 2024 • 1:18:11

How to Make the Most of Your 20s with Dr. Meg Jay

How to Make the Most of Your 20s with Dr. Meg Jay

Twentysomethings are bombarded with misinformation, hype, and contradictory messages that pull them in many different directions. Dr. Meg Jay, a specialist on what she calls the “defining decade,” joins Forrest to explore how we can navigate this transformative and often anxiety-provoking time in our lives. They discuss the biggest misunderstandings about our 20s, balancing having fun with setting yourself up for the future, and common mental health issues. Topics include the pitfalls o

Apr 8, 2024 • 1:16:03

Managing the Freeze Response: Dissociation, Emotional Shutdown, and Creating Safety

Managing the Freeze Response: Dissociation, Emotional Shutdown, and Creating Safety

What do dissociation, avoidance, and emotional shutdown all have in common? They’re connected to the “freeze” response to stress. In one of our favorite episodes to date, Dr. Rick and Forrest explore the freeze response in detail. They talk about what stress responses are, how they impact our behavior, and why different people tend to default to different coping strategies. Forrest explains what freezing looks like in practice, and why the freeze response can be particularly difficult

Apr 1, 2024 • 1:13:41

Working with Irrational Fears, Setting Healthy Boundaries, and Understanding Therapy: March Mailbag

Working with Irrational Fears, Setting Healthy Boundaries, and Understanding Therapy: March Mailbag

Forrest and Dr. Rick open up the mailbag and answer questions from listeners focused on how we can work with irrational fears, create separation from our thoughts and feelings, and set healthy boundaries in dysfunctional families. Rick then goes off on the topic of “evidence-based” vs. “not evidence-based” approaches to therapy, leading to an interesting conversation about research, statistical significance, and what makes for good therapy. We think you’ll enjoy this one, thanks for lis

Mar 25, 2024 • 1:15:00

10 Things We Wish We Knew in Our 20s

10 Things We Wish We Knew in Our 20s

Our 20s are a unique decade filled with opportunity…including the opportunity to make a lot of mistakes. On today’s episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest share (roughly) 10 things they wish they’d known back then. They explore the balance of enjoying freedom with the compounding value of effort, a framework for finding meaning and purpose, and some of the common pitfalls that keep us stuck. Regardless of where you are in life, you’ll learn how to find and embrace your natural talents, appreciat

Mar 18, 2024 • 55:55

Repairing Self-Abandonment: Anxious Attachment, Healthy Boundaries, and Creating Strong Relationships

Repairing Self-Abandonment: Anxious Attachment, Healthy Boundaries, and Creating Strong Relationships

On today’s episode Dr. Rick and Forrest explore self-abandonment, which occurs when we go against our authentic wants, emotions, and boundaries in order to serve others, meet external expectations, or protect ourselves emotionally. They cover where self-abandonment comes from, the psychological function it serves, and the relationship between self-abandonment and similar concepts like anxious attachment, low self-worth, and external referencing. You’ll learn how to set healthy boundarie

Mar 11, 2024 • 1:06:59

Emotional Eating and Changing Your Relationship with Food with Dr. Jud Brewer

Emotional Eating and Changing Your Relationship with Food with Dr. Jud Brewer

There are as many ways to have a difficult relationship with food as there are ways to eat. It’s hard to get conversations about these challenges right, but today we’re taking the plunge and exploring the habit of eating when we’re not hungry with psychiatrist Dr. Jud Brewer. Dr. Rick, Forrest, and Dr. Jud start by discussing our often flawed approach to conversations about eating patterns, shame spirals, and the many problems with diets. They then move the conversation from what we eat

Mar 4, 2024 • 1:21:19

Somatic Tools for Self-Regulation with Elizabeth Ferreira

Somatic Tools for Self-Regulation with Elizabeth Ferreira

One of the most important skills we can learn is how to regulate ourselves, riding the emotional waves without either ignoring or being overwhelmed by them. Associate therapist Elizabeth Ferreira joins Forrest to explore how we can feel our feelings while staying calm, collected, and in control. They walk through two examples of under- and over-regulation, and Elizabeth offers specific practices that might help in each common situation.You can watch this episode on YouTube.Key Topics:0:

Feb 26, 2024 • 1:04:32

Build Strong Relationships and Heal in Community with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford

Build Strong Relationships and Heal in Community with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford

Our relationships are some of the most important parts of our life, and our happiness is often directly correlated to the strength of those relationships. Dr. Joy Harden Bradford joins the podcast to explore how we can apply lessons from group therapy to build stronger friendships. Forrest and Dr. Joy focus on how we can build the trust necessary for vulnerability, how attachment issues show up in friendships, and the common friend roles you might be placing yourself into without realiz

Feb 19, 2024 • 1:00:29

How to ADHD with Jessica McCabe

How to ADHD with Jessica McCabe

ADHD is one of the most common - and most misunderstood - conditions out there, and today we’re setting the record straight with author and YouTuber Jessica McCabe. Jessica joins Forrest to explore her journey with ADHD, dealing with common challenges like self-criticism, shame, and sensitivity, and how we can work with our unique brain, not against it. About our Guest: Jessica McCabe is the creator of the popular YouTube channel How to ADHD and author of the new book How to ADHD: An In

Feb 12, 2024 • 55:27

The (real) Secret to Happiness: Attachment, Craving, and Enjoying Life

The (real) Secret to Happiness: Attachment, Craving, and Enjoying Life

Forrest and Dr. Rick focus on the secret to everyday happiness: learning how to like without wanting. They talk about the lies our brain tells us, the rapid movement from liking to wanting, and how we can enjoy an experience without craving more of it. They then explore a specific example of getting captured by the brain’s “inner ad agency,” and what we can do to stay in the present, meet key needs, and see the whole of our experience without getting trapped by any one part. You won’t w

Feb 5, 2024 • 1:10:42

Mindfulness for Depression, Pain, and Suffering with Dr. Danny Penman

Mindfulness for Depression, Pain, and Suffering with Dr. Danny Penman

On today’s episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest focus on one of the most important skills we can learn: how we can become more aware of all the parts of our experience, avoid being captured by any one of them, and work with those parts more skillfully. One of the key tools we have for accomplishing this is vedanā, or the “feeling tone” of our experience. Author and meditation teacher Dr. Danny Penman joins the show to explore the role of vedanā, how we can help our brain interpret the world more accura

Jan 29, 2024 • 1:05:02

Dealing with a Mental Health Crisis, Trauma and Meditation, and Getting Back on the Wagon: January Mailbag

Dealing with a Mental Health Crisis, Trauma and Meditation, and Getting Back on the Wagon: January Mailbag

Forrest and Dr. Rick open up the mailbag and answer questions from listeners. How can we understand and support someone going through a mental health crisis? Is meditation enough to heal trauma? And what can we do about family members that just won’t change? You’ll learn why offering help isn’t always helpful, how to deal with unskillful feedback, and approaches that help with setting and achieving long-term goals.Forrest is now writing on Substack, check out his work there. Key Topics:

Jan 22, 2024 • 1:01:25

Internal Family Systems: Healing Trauma and Restoring Wholeness with Dr. Richard Schwartz

Internal Family Systems: Healing Trauma and Restoring Wholeness with Dr. Richard Schwartz

Dr. Rick and Forrest are joined by Dr. Richard Schwartz, creator of the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model of therapy, to explore how we can integrate all the aspects of who we are. They explain the IFS model, the nature of parts and their roles, and how we can use this knowledge to increase self-awareness and deal with common problems. Then Rick and Dr. Schwartz dive deep into the nature of the “Self,” where it comes from, and how we can tune into and strengthen it.This was a wide-ran

Jan 15, 2024 • 1:20:43

Healing Cycles of Trauma with Dr. Mariel Buqué

Healing Cycles of Trauma with Dr. Mariel Buqué

Dr. Mariel Buqué joins the podcast to help us learn how we can heal from the past, create healthier patterns, and break cycles of trauma. Forrest and Dr. Buqué talk about what intergenerational trauma is, how we can “hand trauma down,” and how these problematic patterns show up in the real world. They focus on what helps someone take the first steps, the key role of insight, and moving from insight to action. Along the way, Dr. Buqué shares the powerful tools that help people resource t

Jan 8, 2024 • 1:19:17

How to Get More From 2024

How to Get More From 2024

Dr. Rick and Forrest kick off 2024 by exploring how we can relate to the past, plan for the future, and get more from the year ahead. They talk about different approaches to New Years, the tactics that maximize your chances of achieving a goal, and a simple four question system for reflecting on and learning from the year that was. You'll learn how to create useful resolutions, put 2023 into perspective, and set yourself up for success in the year to come!Forrest is now writing on Substack, chec

Jan 1, 2024 • 1:00:04

CPTSD, Somatic Psychology, and Finding Your Happiness with Elizabeth Ferreira

CPTSD, Somatic Psychology, and Finding Your Happiness with Elizabeth Ferreira

Forrest and Elizabeth welcome listeners into their home to talk about their changing relationship with the holidays, letting go of the past, healthy boundaries, glimmers, and different paths to taking in the good. Along the way they talk about different approaches to working with trauma, connecting with the body, and getting on our own side.You can watch this episode on YouTube.Key Topics:0:00: Introduction2:00: Elizabeth’s history with the holidays, and claiming your own rituals5:20: E

Dec 25, 2023 • 58:01

Harnessing Your Generativity: The Secret to Productivity, Creativity, and Consistency

Harnessing Your Generativity: The Secret to Productivity, Creativity, and Consistency

Dr. Rick joins Forrest for a deep dive into harnessing our natural generativity. How can we become more productive and creative, experience greater satisfaction, and lean into our biological drives to get more of what we want out of life?They explore what a drive is, our natural drive states, and what we can learn from models of motivation like self-determination theory, before moving on to what we can do if generativity doesn’t come naturally to us. Rick and Forrest share how we can le

Dec 18, 2023 • 1:20:28

How to Become a New Person

How to Become a New Person

We’re getting toward the end of the year, and it’s a great opportunity to evaluate where we are and where we’d like to go. On today's episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest explore how we can step out of the way we've been, and into a new way of thinking, doing, and being. They talk about self-concept, unconscious beliefs, and how those beliefs affect our behavior. Forrest then shares a model of what this kind of change tends to look like practically, which usually includes relax our attachment

Dec 11, 2023 • 1:06:25

What Healthy Couples DON’T Do with Dr. Amy Morin

What Healthy Couples DON’T Do with Dr. Amy Morin

Just as we can exercise our arms or legs to build physical strength, we can exercise our brains like we do any other muscle. Therapist Amy Morin joins Forrest to help us learn how to regulate our thoughts, manage our emotions, and become more psychologically flexible. These key skills are particularly important for building a healthy relationship. Forrest and Amy explore how couples can work together to identify their issues, deal with effort imbalances, and avoid common mistakes (like

Dec 4, 2023 • 1:10:44

Highly Sensitive People, How to Repair, and When Your Partner Won't Stop Talking: November Mailbag

Highly Sensitive People, How to Repair, and When Your Partner Won't Stop Talking: November Mailbag

What can I do if my partner dominates conversations about our relationship? How can I navigate situations where I want to repair, but other people don’t? What’s a “highly sensitive person,” and how does it relate to conditions like complex PTSD, ADHD, and autism? In this episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest open up the mailbag and answer questions from listeners. If you’d like to have a question answered on the podcast, you can join us on Patreon or send it in to contact@beingwel

Nov 27, 2023 • 1:03:41

What Really Helps Trauma? with Dr. Jacob Ham

What Really Helps Trauma? with Dr. Jacob Ham

In one of the most interesting conversations we've ever had on the podcast, Forrest is joined by clinical psychologist Dr. Jacob Ham to explore what really helps people work with - and be with - trauma. They begin with Dr. Ham's background and what drew him to trauma work before Forrest asks him how he "conceptualizes" different kinds of traumatic experiences. Dr. Ham then takes them away from the conceptual, and toward the felt. They talk about cultivating a felt sense of connection, e

Nov 20, 2023 • 1:12:44

The Being Well Holiday Survival Guide

The Being Well Holiday Survival Guide

Ah the holidays, that blessed time of year when we come together with our highly functional family systems to engage in some good, old-fashioned fun. If that sounded like a joke, this episode is for you. Dr. Rick and Forrest explore how to survive the holidays with the dishes (mostly) intact. They talk about the pull of dysfunctional family systems, our tendency to return to the way things were “back then,” and balancing the desire to flip the Thanksgiving table with the desire to just

Nov 13, 2023 • 1:15:11

The Polyvagal Theory and Trauma with Dr. Stephen Porges

The Polyvagal Theory and Trauma with Dr. Stephen Porges

Dr. Stephen Porges, the creator of the polyvagal theory, joins the podcast to walk us through how its lessons can be applied to recovering from traumatic experiences. Forrest and Dr. Porges simplify the polyvagal theory, discuss the three key states our body can rest in, and explore how we can use polyvagal practices to heal old wounds and feel safer. About our Guest: Dr. Stephen Porges is a Distinguished University Scientist at Indiana University, Professor of Psychiatry at the Univers

Nov 6, 2023 • 55:36

Mastering Change with Brad Stulberg

Mastering Change with Brad Stulberg

We all know that change is inevitable in life, and getting good at changing is one of the most important skills we can develop. It’s also one of the most difficult to master. On today’s episode writer and coach Brad Stulberg joins Forrest to explore how we can reshape who we are, navigate and embrace change, and become more resilient.  About our Guest: Brad focuses his work on the philosophical and psychological foundations of excellence, and the habits and practices necessary to attain

Oct 30, 2023 • 1:14:23

Should You Become A Parent?

Should You Become A Parent?

On today’s episode Dr. Rick and Forrest focus on one of the most important decisions we’ll make in life: the choice to become a parent. They focus on what good parenting looks like in practice, the key difference in thinking of a child as a “means” or an “end,” and how to know whether becoming a parent is the right path for you. Neurodharma Course! Join Dr. Rick for Neurodharma, a live, online course focused on developing seven key qualities that help us steady the mind, warm the heart, and find

Oct 23, 2023 • 1:09:04

How to Become Self-Confident

How to Become Self-Confident

In today’s episode Forrest and Dr. Rick explore how we can improve our self-confidence, allowing us to become more psychologically flexible and create healthy boundaries with other people. They explain why becoming better at something doesn’t always make us more confident, the two paths of gaining confidence and releasing insecurity, and how we can release insecurity over time. They then talk about the differences between confidence and narcissism, dealing with other people when they tr

Oct 16, 2023 • 59:34

How to Change Your Perspective

How to Change Your Perspective

How we view ourselves, other people, and the world around us has a huge impact on the emotions we feel, the choices we make, and the quality of the lives we lead. These are our perspectives, and they’re the foundation our lives are built on…which is why changing them is so freakin’ hard. In this episode, Forrest and Rick explore what perspectives are, what a healthy perspective looks like in practice, and how we can deliberately shift our perspectives over time. Specific topics include

Oct 9, 2023 • 1:02:24

Creating a Healthy Relationship (with Yourself) with Najwa Zebian

Creating a Healthy Relationship (with Yourself) with Najwa Zebian

“The mistake most of us make is building our homes in other people. When we do that, we give them the power to make us homeless.”Poet, activist, and author Najwa Zebian joins Forrest for a conversation focused on discovering what truly matters to us. They use Najwa’s personal story as a way to explore how we can break out of the roles others place us in, create healthy boundaries, and feel worthy from the inside-out. Topics include balancing intimacy and autonomy, self-compassion and se

Oct 2, 2023 • 1:05:45

Authenticity: How to “Be Yourself”

Authenticity: How to “Be Yourself”

We’re often told to “be true to ourselves:” to line-up the person we are on the outside with the person we are on the inside. In a word, to be authentic. But what does it really mean to “be who we are,” “get in touch with ourselves,” or to go full new-age “live in alignment with our higher purpose?”In this episode Dr. Rick and Forrest explore what authenticity is, where it comes from, and whether it’s actually a good thing to be more authentic. They talk about what we really mean when w

Sep 25, 2023 • 1:10:18

Childhood Trauma, Self-Sabotage, and Therapy: September Mailbag

Childhood Trauma, Self-Sabotage, and Therapy: September Mailbag

Rick and Forrest open up the mailbag and answer questions from listeners focused on getting the most we can out of therapy, processing old painful experiences, and sabotaging ourselves. They explore the self-fulfilling nature of fear, different forms of therapy and who they can benefit, and how to approach dealing with your mind in general. You can watch this episode on YouTube.Key Topics:0:00: Introduction1:25: My relationship anxiety is sabotaging my relationship!7:40: Getting more ou

Sep 18, 2023 • 58:51

Workaholism: Anxiety, Addiction, and Finding Balance in a Busy World

Workaholism: Anxiety, Addiction, and Finding Balance in a Busy World

In our productivity-obsessed, always-on world it’s easy for busyness to become a badge of honor. But sometimes that effort-ing transforms from the reasonable pursuit of our goals into workaholism: a compulsive, even addictive drive to work. In today’s episode Forrest and Dr. Rick explore what workaholism is really, the psychological functions it serves, and how it relates to other addictive behaviors. You’ll learn both how to approach changing behaviors like workaholism in general and s

Sep 11, 2023 • 1:10:29

Becoming Emotionally Agile with Dr. Susan David

Becoming Emotionally Agile with Dr. Susan David

Forrest and Rick sit down with Dr. Susan David, the creator of the concept of Emotional Agility. Emotional agility is what allows us to navigate our complex emotions, make choices aligned with our values, and ultimately lead more authentic and fulfilling lives.They begin by discussing the four parts of emotional agility and distinguishing it from related concepts like emotional intelligence before exploring how we can “unhook” from our painful or problematic thoughts, feelings, and stor

Sep 4, 2023 • 1:07:22

Impermanence Anxiety: How to Live While Letting Go

Impermanence Anxiety: How to Live While Letting Go

The only constant in life is change. Moments come and go, people enter and leave our lives, and we ourselves grow, change, and eventually pass away. While this is an obvious fact of life, we usually let it blend into the background, and coming face-to-face with it can fill us with understandable feelings of anxiety, uncertainty, and even dread.In this episode Forrest and Dr. Rick explore impermanence anxiety: the fears we have related to change. They discuss “macro” and “micro” imperman

Aug 28, 2023 • 1:07:13

Metabolism, Brain Energy, and Mental Health with Dr. Chris Palmer

Metabolism, Brain Energy, and Mental Health with Dr. Chris Palmer

Dr. Chris Palmer, assistant professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, joins Forrest to discuss the relationship between metabolic function and mental illness. They discuss Dr. Palmer’s work with patients suffering from severe conditions like schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, psychiatry’s current challenges with treatment-resistant conditions, and the important distinction between difficult psychological states and brain-based disorders. They then explore the relations

Aug 21, 2023 • 1:19:19

Emotional Intelligence: Improving Self-Awareness, Self-Regulation, and Empathy

Emotional Intelligence: Improving Self-Awareness, Self-Regulation, and Empathy

Emotional intelligence is considered an essential trait for everything from being a desirable romantic partner to having a successful career. But what do we really mean when we say “emotional intelligence,” and how can we become emotionally intelligent over time? In today’s episode Dr. Rick and Forrest discuss what’s “in” emotional intelligence, balancing emotional closeness and distance, and how we can become more self-aware, emotionally regulated, and empathic.You can watch this episo

Aug 14, 2023 • 1:12:01

Neuroplasticity Tools to Change Your (and your kid’s) Brain with Dr. Caroline Leaf

Neuroplasticity Tools to Change Your (and your kid’s) Brain with Dr. Caroline Leaf

Our thoughts, emotions, and experiences can reshape the very structure of our brains, allowing it to adapt and change over time. This is known as neuroplasticity, and while it’s present throughout our lives the younger we are the more powerful it is. On today’s episode, Dr. Caroline Leaf joins Rick and Forrest to explore how we can harness the power of neuroplasticity to clean up our mental mess…and teach our children to do the same. They detail Dr. Leaf’s five-step Neurocycle process,

Aug 7, 2023 • 48:20

So You Want to Be a Therapist?

So You Want to Be a Therapist?

Over the last 10 years interest in therapy has boomed, and with the greater demand for therapists more people than ever are considering pursuing a career in mental health. On today’s episode Forrest speaks to five therapists and therapists-in-training to learn the lessons they wish they’d known when they started. You can watch this episode on YouTube.Key Topics:0:00: Intro2:15: Rick Hanson5:05: Key traits of good therapists17:50: Questions a prospective therapist might not think to ask2

Jul 31, 2023 • 1:44:59

Dan Harris: Mindfulness, Fear, and Love Without the Cringe

Dan Harris: Mindfulness, Fear, and Love Without the Cringe

Dan Harris, author of 10% Happier, joins Dr. Rick and Forrest for a wide-ranging, open, and personal conversation. They explore dealing with anxiety and fear, sustaining a mindfulness practice, and accepting our nature while leaning into a new version of ourselves. Along the way they talk about the benefits and drawbacks of purely secular approaches to mindfulness, Dan’s recent time with the Dalai Lama, and why an “anti-sentimentalist” like Dan is writing a book about love.About our Gue

Jul 24, 2023 • 58:38

Dealing with Criticism, Anxiety, and Dysfunctional Family Systems: July Mailbag

Dealing with Criticism, Anxiety, and Dysfunctional Family Systems: July Mailbag

Forrest and Dr. Rick open up the mailbag and answer questions from listeners. They explore how we can thoughtfully take the input of other people, identify and meet our needs, deal with anxiety and the fear of failure, and approach a conversation about drug use with teenagers. You’ll also learn strategies for reducing nighttime sleep anxiety, creating healthy boundaries, dealing with temperamental differences in a relationship, and finding peace and connection as a single person.Watch t

Jul 17, 2023 • 1:06:41

Simplifying Self-Help: 7 Lessons for a Lifetime of Well-Being

Simplifying Self-Help: 7 Lessons for a Lifetime of Well-Being

There is a lot of complicated advice out there (including on this podcast) for how to improve our well-being. In this episode, Forrest and Dr. Rick simplify the lessons they’ve learned from over 100 experts and 300 episodes. They explore the importance of individual context, focusing on what we can change even among difficult circumstances, the power of acceptance, influencing our attention, taking care of the body, social connection, and how we can identify, accept, and manage our uniq

Jul 10, 2023 • 1:06:16

How to Become Securely Attached

How to Become Securely Attached

In today’s episode, Forrest and Dr. Rick focus on one of the most common, and most important, questions they get about attachment theory: can we heal our attachment wounds, and become more securely attached? They explore the basics of attachment theory, whether people can change their attachment style, and how much change is truly possible. They then discuss some common frameworks for change, the power of positive experiences, and how we can break out of the “catch-22” of attachment wou

Jul 3, 2023 • 1:02:58

Time Management for Mortals with Oliver Burkeman

Time Management for Mortals with Oliver Burkeman

The average human will live for roughly 4000 weeks. Foregrounding this can be a source of stress, leading us to constantly run from one task to another. Or, it can be a source of meaning and purpose, nudging us to focus on what really matters.In this episode, Forrest is joined by bestselling author Oliver Burkeman for an exploration of what’s really at stake in what we call “time management”. You’ll learn why doing things faster only leaves you with more to do, the hidden payoffs of con

Jun 26, 2023 • 1:08:23

Overcoming Procrastination: Unleashing Motivation and Creating a Pursuit Mindset

Overcoming Procrastination: Unleashing Motivation and Creating a Pursuit Mindset

We've all experienced that frustrating feeling of knowing that we should be doing something, and yet struggling to take action. Join Forrest and Dr. Rick as they explore how we can overcome avoidance and procrastination, unlock our motivation, and cultivate a "pursuit mindset." They discuss intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, why extrinsic motivations aren’t such a bad thing, and how we can use our important values to set better goals and shape our behavior. You’ll learn why procrastination is b

Jun 19, 2023 • 53:13

Staying Curious, Embracing Change, and Relating to Media with Michael Krasny

Staying Curious, Embracing Change, and Relating to Media with Michael Krasny

Rick and Forrest are joined by award-winning journalist Michael Krasny for an episode focused on how to stay curious, navigate times of transition, and relate to the modern media landscape in healthy ways. They use Michael’s recent experience with “retirement” as a jumping off point to explore how we can embrace change and stay curious before diving into a conversation focused on the modern media landscape. Topics include bothsides-ism, navigating challenging conversations, and finding

Jun 12, 2023 • 46:11

How to Change Your Life: Self-Efficacy, Learned Helplessness, and Growth Mindset

How to Change Your Life: Self-Efficacy, Learned Helplessness, and Growth Mindset

If you’re tired of feeling stuck, this one’s for you. Dr. Rick and Forrest explore how we can overcome learned helplessness and change our lives by developing self-efficacy: the ability to influence our environments and control our motivation and behavior. Key topics include why we get stuck, the science of learned helplessness, focusing on effort over talent, creating a growth mindset, and balancing acceptance and agency. You’ll learn how to improve self-efficacy, embrace who you are,

Jun 5, 2023 • 1:06:39

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome: Self-Doubt, Confidence, and Authenticity

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome: Self-Doubt, Confidence, and Authenticity

Forrest and Dr. Rick explore how to overcome imposter syndrome, the common psychological experience of self-doubt and feeling like a fraud. You'll learn why even very accomplished, capable people experience imposter syndrome, strategies to break free from the cycle of self-doubt, and how to move away from comparison, embrace authenticity, and believe in yourself. Topics include how to build self-confidence, reframe negative self-perceptions, and find support from mentors and allies.Key

May 29, 2023 • 57:45

Self-Help Fads and Finding What Really Works with mindbodygreen CEO Jason Wachob

Self-Help Fads and Finding What Really Works with mindbodygreen CEO Jason Wachob

There’s an enormous amount of advice out there in the self-help world…and much of it isn’t very good. Jason Wachob, the Founder and Co-CEO of mindbodygreen, joins Forrest and Dr. Rick to separate fact from fiction and clarify what really matters. They explore the importance of finding joy in the well-being journey, simple practices that have stood the test of time, and how we can pursue goals in healthy ways. Specific topics include the importance of high-quality sleep, breathing better

May 22, 2023 • 1:02:23

Attachment Theory and Emotionally Focused Therapy with Dr. Sue Johnson

Attachment Theory and Emotionally Focused Therapy with Dr. Sue Johnson

Dr. Sue Johnson, the founder of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), joins Dr. Rick and Forrest to explore how insights from attachment theory can transform our relationships. They discuss how attachment theory provides a map for understanding relationships, the challenges of making skills learned in therapy stick, and the role of vulnerability in creating authentic and fulfilling relationships. In this episode you'll learn how to use insights from attachment theory and EFT to create secu

May 15, 2023 • 1:06:11

Mailbag: Power in Relationships, Self-Worth, Motivation, and Personal Responsibility

Mailbag: Power in Relationships, Self-Worth, Motivation, and Personal Responsibility

Forrest and Dr. Rick dive into the mailbag to answer questions from listeners. They explore age gaps in relationships, relating to people as ongoing processes, and avoiding having your personal growth practice turn you into a doormat. You’ll learn how to develop authentic self-worth, how to allow both “positive” and “negative” motivations to pull you in a good direction, and how to balance determinism with personal responsibility. The episode closes with a question about supporting peop

May 8, 2023 • 1:15:04

How to Create Massive Change with Dr. Benjamin Hardy

How to Create Massive Change with Dr. Benjamin Hardy

Forrest Hanson welcomes Dr. Benjamin Hardy to explore how we can create massive change by applying "10x thinking.” This mindset involves embracing a radically different version of ourselves and our lives, and they share how we can apply it to our daily lives, learn to act from our future selves, and move past defensiveness and fear. You’ll learn how our past and future selves are with us in the present, how fixating on authenticity can hinder our growth, and how to break free from old p

May 1, 2023 • 1:02:35

Learning from Nature with Mark Coleman

Learning from Nature with Mark Coleman

Buddhist teacher Mark Coleman joins Forrest and Dr. Rick to share how we can learn from nature and incorporate it into our practice. Mark shares his insights and experiences from years of leading wilderness retreats, and explains how reconnecting with the natural world can deepen mindfulness and enhance our well-being. You’ll learn specific meditative practices, how to bring the outside inside, the power of our “wild” aspects, and how we can move from being in nature to simply being nat

Apr 24, 2023 • 56:29

Releasing Obsessive Thoughts: Rumination, OCD, and Dealing with Fear

Releasing Obsessive Thoughts: Rumination, OCD, and Dealing with Fear

Forrest and Dr. Rick delve into a frequently requested topic: how we can let go of obsessive and intrusive thoughts. They explore why we get trapped in certain thoughts, the negative effects of rumination, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). They also discuss facing our fears, which allows us to get close enough to a problem that we can do something about it…without getting so close that we become overwhelmed by it. Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You can watch this episo

Apr 17, 2023 • 1:07:57

Cognitive Bypassing: How to Get Out of Your Head and Into Your Life

Cognitive Bypassing: How to Get Out of Your Head and Into Your Life

Cognitive bypassing occurs when we overthink to avoid feeling uncomfortable emotions like sadness, fear, or anger. In this episode, Forrest and Dr. Rick share their personal experiences with cognitive bypassing, and explore how we can step out of our heads, get in touch with our emotions, and live a more fulfilling life. You'll learn why people can't just "feel their feelings," the function of cognitive bypassing, how we can use cognition to create space for our emotions, and practical

Apr 10, 2023 • 1:05:37

ADHD 2.0: Debunking Misconceptions, Revealing Hidden Strengths, and Effective Treatments w/ Dr. John Ratey

ADHD 2.0: Debunking Misconceptions, Revealing Hidden Strengths, and Effective Treatments w/ Dr. John Ratey

ADHD is often misunderstood as a simple "lack of attention." But in this episode of Being Well, Forrest and Dr. Rick are joined by ADHD pioneer Dr. John Ratey to explore the true nature of this complex condition. They debunk common misconceptions, explore how ADHD works in the brain, and discuss its surprising strengths and vulnerabilities. You’ll learn how to thrive with ADHD by applying effective interventions, including social connection, mindfulness practice, medication, and exercis

Apr 3, 2023 • 59:51

How to Become Psychologically Flexible (from two formerly rigid people)

How to Become Psychologically Flexible (from two formerly rigid people)

Join Forrest and Dr. Rick, two “reformed rigid people,” as they explore how to become more psychologically flexible. Just as physical flexibility is the amount of stretch in our muscles, the ability they have to bend without breaking, psychological flexibility is the same quality in our minds. It enables us to approach situations from new perspectives, be open to our emotions, let go of old versions of ourselves, and step into new ways of being.In this episode, they discuss the concept

Mar 27, 2023 • 52:22

Complex PTSD and Learning to Live With the Past with Stephanie Foo

Complex PTSD and Learning to Live With the Past with Stephanie Foo

Author Stephanie Foo joins Forrest to share her journey with Complex PTSD. They talk about what it was like to receive a diagnosis, the various techniques and modalities she used (and what really helped), the importance of social support, self-acceptance and self-compassion, difficulties with access and cultural competence in the mental healthcare system, intergenerational trauma, and motherhood. About Our Guest: Stephanie is a writer and radio producer whose work has been featured on T

Mar 20, 2023 • 1:06:00

The Unconscious Mind: How to Access, Understand, and Use It

The Unconscious Mind: How to Access, Understand, and Use It

Most of what's occurring in the mind lies outside our awareness. In this episode, Forrest and Dr. Rick Hanson explore the unconscious mind and the material we might find there. They talk about what the unconscious mind is, the purpose of the unconscious, repression, bias, and what we can do to access, use, and release that unconscious material. Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You can watch this episode on YouTube.Key Topics:0:00: Introduction2:25: What is the unconscious mind?

Mar 13, 2023 • 1:07:09

What We've Learned From 100 Experts

What We've Learned From 100 Experts

On the (roughly) 300th episode of Being Well, Forrest and Dr. Rick share what they’ve learned from the many experts in psychology, personal growth, and mental health they’ve talked to on the show. They explore the importance of individual context, the gap between insight and action, self-honesty and acceptance as the catalyst for change, incremental change vs. sudden breakthroughs, and the role of distress tolerance.Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You can watch this episode on

Mar 6, 2023 • 58:16

Somatic Psychology: Using the Body to Heal the Mind with Elizabeth Ferreira

Somatic Psychology: Using the Body to Heal the Mind with Elizabeth Ferreira

Somatic therapist Elizabeth Ferreira returns to the podcast and joins Forrest for a deep dive into somatic psychology. They explore what a somatic therapy session looks like in practice, how it differs from traditional talk therapy, the connection between the body and the mind, and why people with complex trauma are sometimes better served by body-based approaches. Elizabeth then talks about how somatic therapy has supported her own journey with CPTSD and PMDD, and shares some of the pr

Feb 27, 2023 • 52:01

Daddy Issues: Attachment Wounding, Dealing with Common Symptoms, and Becoming More Securely Attached

Daddy Issues: Attachment Wounding, Dealing with Common Symptoms, and Becoming More Securely Attached

If you listen to a podcast like ours, you’re probably familiar with the phrase “daddy issues.” A more accurate way to understand daddy issues is as a form of attachment wounding, which describes situations where our adult relationships are affected by complicated, difficult, or traumatic experiences we had as a child. In this episode, Forrest and Dr. Rick explore what daddy issues are, how they relate to attachment theory, sexism and the broader social and historical context, different

Feb 20, 2023 • 1:24:34

What Addiction (and Recovery) Can Teach Us About Change with Eric Zimmer

What Addiction (and Recovery) Can Teach Us About Change with Eric Zimmer

Eric Zimmer, a behavior coach and the host of The One You Feed podcast, joins Forrest and Rick to explore what really supports us in changing our ingrained patterns of behavior through the lens of Eric’s journey with addiction and recovery. They share the key lessons from speaking with hundreds of experts, the role of insight, why some people go from insight to action and others don’t, acceptance, shame, and responsibility, and the balance between determinism and agency.About our Guest: Eric is

Feb 13, 2023 • 1:10:12

Repairing with Family, Dealing with Difficult People, and Recognizing Power: Mailbag

Repairing with Family, Dealing with Difficult People, and Recognizing Power: Mailbag

Dr. Rick and Forrest open up the mailbag and answer questions from listeners related to how we can build better relationships (particularly with our families) and deal with difficult people. They explore the common traits of happy families, how to deal with people who weaponize psychological jargon, navigating different perceptions of “what happened,” and repairing a damaged relationship with a child. Forrest ends the conversation by talking about the importance of “going to zero” after

Feb 6, 2023 • 1:04:23

How to Navigate Common Arguments

How to Navigate Common Arguments

All of our relationships include some conflict, the big question is how skillfully we handle that conflict when it appears. Dr. Rick Hanson joins Forrest to walk us through some effective ways to deal with common forms of interpersonal conflict. They explore the four common disagreements, the subtle ways power shows up in our relationships, separating content from process, and how to stand your ground.Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You can watch this episode on YouTube.New On

Jan 30, 2023 • 1:01:03

Letting Go of Our Conditioning with Caverly Morgan

Letting Go of Our Conditioning with Caverly Morgan

The main topic we explore on the podcast, in many different ways, is change. How can we come to understand ourselves better, let go of who we were, and become who we wish to be? In this episode Dr. Rick and Forrest are joined by meditation teacher and former Zen monastic Caverly Morgan. They discuss how we can release our conditioning, identify the inner voice that leads to change, and get to the heart of who we are.About Our Guest: Caverly is a meditation teacher, author, and the found

Jan 23, 2023 • 57:10

The Keys to a Great Relationship

The Keys to a Great Relationship

Before becoming the “Buddhist brain guy” Dr. Rick spent over 30 years working in private practice as a couples counselor and family therapist. Today we’re leaning on that experience, and learning what we can do to build healthier, happier, and more fulfilling relationships.Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You can watch this episode on YouTube.New Online Course From Dr. Rick: Learn the tools you need to build strong, healthy, fulfilling relationships of all kinds in Rick's new S

Jan 16, 2023 • 49:00

Becoming Our Best Selves with Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman and Dr. Jordyn Feingold

Becoming Our Best Selves with Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman and Dr. Jordyn Feingold

We often know what we “should” do, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to do it. Today Dr. Rick and Forrest are joined by Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman and Dr. Jordyn Feingold to explore how we can learn to consistently choose our best selves, overcome barriers to growth, and fully actualize ourselves.About our Guests: Scott is a cognitive scientist, humanistic psychologist, professor at Columbia University, host of the popular Psychology Podcast, and the author of 10 books, including Transcend:

Jan 9, 2023 • 56:31

Why Don't We Get Better?

Why Don't We Get Better?

This is the podcast’s five-year anniversary, and over that time I’ve submerged myself in psychology, self-help, and personal growth content - and as a result I’ve changed in many important ways. At the same time, some things have been very hard to change. It's surprising how even after learning so much I still often feel like I’m pushing the same old rocks up the same old hills. On today’s episode I’m joined by Dr. Rick Hanson to explore why we struggle to get better, how much change is

Jan 2, 2023 • 56:04

How to Reinvent Yourself (in 2023)

How to Reinvent Yourself (in 2023)

We’ve come to the end of another year, and it’s a good time to take stock and consider how we’d like to grow and change during our next trip around the sun. In this episode, Forrest and Dr. Rick focus on what supports us and what holds us back from reinventing ourselves and becoming all we wish to be. They talk about how they’d like to change over the next year, different approaches to new year’s resolutions, do a little digging around in Forrest’s psyche, and highlight a few practical

Dec 26, 2022 • 54:51

The Science of Stress with Dr. Elissa Epel

The Science of Stress with Dr. Elissa Epel

We think of stress as “bad” for you, but what if some forms of stress could actually help us grow and change for the better? On today’s episode Forrest and Dr. Rick are joined by Dr. Elissa Epel, a psychologist and leading stress researcher, to explore the science behind the stress response. They talk about the different forms of stress, what separates “good” stress from “bad” stress, how we can take advantage of good stress, and dealing with existential forms of stress like the climate

Dec 19, 2022 • 53:17

Responding to Criticism, and Accepting The Way Things Are

Responding to Criticism, and Accepting The Way Things Are

Criticism is an unavoidable part of life. But even though we’re all going to be criticized from time to time, many of us spend much of our lives living in fear of criticism. Then, on the flip side, we’re all critics ourselves. We’ve all been in situations that aren’t quite what we want them to be – so we need to either do something to change them or accept them as they are. On this episode Dr. Rick and Forrest focus on how we can get better at receiving and giving criticism, learn to ac

Dec 12, 2022 • 53:14

Living While Dying with Sensei Koshin Paley Ellison

Living While Dying with Sensei Koshin Paley Ellison

“All the time I work with dying people, and only a few of them know they are dying.” On this episode of Being Well, Soto Zen teacher Sensei Koshin Paley Ellison joins Forrest and Rick to explore living, dying, and personal practice in the midst of our beautiful, challenging, messy lives.   About our Guest: Sensei Koshin is an author, Zen teacher, Jungian psychotherapist, and co-founder of the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care. He began his formal Zen training in 1987 and comple

Dec 5, 2022 • 58:40

How to Understand Anxiety and See Threats Clearly

How to Understand Anxiety and See Threats Clearly

We’re living in an anxious time, and part of the reason we’re anxious is because there are very real challenges we face both individually and collectively. But we’re also affected by the natural tendencies of the brain, which is easily influenced by fear and threat. On this episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson focus on how we can see threats clearly and be the “right amount” of concerned. Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You can watch this episode on YouTube.Key T

Nov 28, 2022 • 43:19

Moving Beyond “Fair” to Build a Great Relationship with Nate and Kaley Klemp

Moving Beyond “Fair” to Build a Great Relationship with Nate and Kaley Klemp

These days couples often shoot for 50/50 in their relationships: an even split of responsibilities in the home or at work. But 50/50 often leads to fights over fairness, and this fixation on fairness can be the death of many relationships.On this episode of Being Well, Forrest and Dr. Rick are joined by Nate and Kaley Klemp to explore how we can build fun, fulfilling, and truly equitable relationships. Topics include Nate and Kaley’s early relationship struggles, different models of rel

Nov 21, 2022 • 1:05:06

Choosing the Roles We Play in Life

Choosing the Roles We Play in Life

If you’re the kind of person who listens to mental health podcasts, you’re more likely than average to get pulled into an impromptu “helping role” with your family and friends. Sometimes we seek out these roles, but they can also be uncomfortable or one-sided. And sometimes we get stuck playing a role for someone else that we never wanted in the first place.On this episode of Being Well, Forrest and Dr. Rick use this situation as a way in to exploring the various roles we play in life, and the p

Nov 14, 2022 • 1:07:47

Authentically Developing Self-Worth

Authentically Developing Self-Worth

It’s one thing to feel good about what we do, and another to feel truly worthy from the inside out. When we increase our self-worth it allows us to take our needs more seriously, get on our own side, and change our lives for the better. On this episode of Being Well, Rick and Forrest explore how we can develop a more durable sense of self-worth. They talk about self-worth vs. self-esteem, what causes people to lack self-worth, Rick’s personal story of developing a true sense of worthine

Nov 7, 2022 • 52:43

Saying No to Your Past, Embracing Growth, and Becoming Lighter with Yung Pueblo

Saying No to Your Past, Embracing Growth, and Becoming Lighter with Yung Pueblo

Diego Perez, widely known by his pen name Yung Pueblo, joins Forrest to explore how we can deepen our personal practice, refine the mind, break old patterns, relax the self, and feel lighter than we were before.This was one of my absolute favorite conversations I’ve had on the podcast, and being with Diego was a real pleasure. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.About our Guest: Diego Perez is a poet, meditator, and New York Times bestselling author widely known through his pen name Yu

Oct 31, 2022 • 55:41

How to Forgive Yourself

How to Forgive Yourself

We all make mistakes in life. When we do it's important to take appropriate responsibility, feel the "wince," and make amends as we can. But after we've done that...then what? Many people find it easier to forgive others than they do to truly forgive themselves, and it's not uncommon to be burdened by excessive shame and guilt that has outlived its expiration date.On this episode Dr. Rick and Forrest explore forgiveness, including how we can forgive ourselves. This includes common myths

Oct 24, 2022 • 1:00:59

Evolving Our Approach to Treating Trauma with Dr. Bessel van der Kolk

Evolving Our Approach to Treating Trauma with Dr. Bessel van der Kolk

On today’s episode of Being Well, Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, the author of The Body Keeps the Score, joins Rick and Forrest to explore how trauma keeps us stuck, and how we can use imagination, self-expression, and creativity to break away from those old patterns. Along the way they talk about using somatic and non-cognitive interventions, internalized abuse, the value of a developmental perspective, using psychedelics for complex trauma, some of the problems with modern psychiatry, and h

Oct 17, 2022 • 1:02:23

Changing Old Patterns, Using Psychedelics Thoughtfully, and Exploring Human Nature: October Mailbag

Changing Old Patterns, Using Psychedelics Thoughtfully, and Exploring Human Nature: October Mailbag

On this episode of Being Well, Rick and Forrest answer questions from listeners. They explore what they’re still working on in their relationship, how we can disengage from obsessive thoughts and old patterns, Rick’s thoughts on psychedelics and how they can be used with discernment, their views on whether human nature is innately cooperative or competitive, and much more.If you’d like to ask a question to be answered on the show, send us an email at contact@beingwellpodcast.com or supp

Oct 10, 2022 • 1:01:05

PTSD, Post-Traumatic Growth, and Prioritizing Mental Health with Jason Kander

PTSD, Post-Traumatic Growth, and Prioritizing Mental Health with Jason Kander

In 2016 Jason Kander was a rising star in the Democratic Party. After narrowly losing the race to become one of Missouri’s Senators, he began laying the groundwork for a Presidential run. Jason unexpectedly pivoted to declaring his candidacy for the 2019 Kansas City mayoral election, and quickly became the clear favorite. Three months into that campaign he ended his candidacy and stepped back from public life after revealing that he had suffered from PTSD and depression after serving as

Oct 3, 2022 • 58:38

How to Effectively Communicate What You Want

How to Effectively Communicate What You Want

On the previous episode of Being Well, we talked about how to identify our wants and needs...but identifying our needs is just the first step. After that comes the tricky business of coming to terms with those needs, and communicating them effectively to other people.In this episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson explore best practices for claiming and expressing our needs. This includes how to navigate shame and inhibition, make effective agreements, be considerate of the person on the receiving

Sep 26, 2022 • 1:01:14

Discovering Your Wants and Needs

Discovering Your Wants and Needs

Everyone has needs, but many people find it difficult to identify what authentically matters to them. Even when we can identify them, shame or fear often stops us from expressing those needs to others or taking the practical steps that would help us achieve them.Meeting our needs is a major source of well-being, and people who can identify their needs are more likely to get them met. On today’s episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson focus on how to look inside, and figure out what yo

Sep 19, 2022 • 1:03:33

Healing Trauma in a Toxic Culture with Dr. Gabor Maté

Healing Trauma in a Toxic Culture with Dr. Gabor Maté

Renowned physician Dr. Gabor Maté joins Rick and Forrest to explore the many problems for our bodies and minds that arise out of our modern culture, and what we can do to meet our needs, heal ourselves, and become more whole. They discuss our increasing separation from one another, issues with aspects of the medical model, the true nature of addiction, the developmental needs of children, the myth of “normal,” and recovering from traumatic experiences.About Our Guest: Dr. Gabor Maté is

Sep 12, 2022 • 1:05:03

Understanding, Recognizing, and Dealing with Narcissists with Dr. Craig Malkin

Understanding, Recognizing, and Dealing with Narcissists with Dr. Craig Malkin

We all have narcissistic traits. Having some sense of our own specialness isn’t just normal, it’s actually psychologically healthy. The problems start when people go beyond normal levels, and become addicted to feeling special. On this episode, Forrest is joined by Dr. Craig Malkin to explore narcissism and narcissistic traits. They talk about the different forms narcissism takes, the difference between narcissistic traits and narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), red flags, dealing with narc

Sep 5, 2022 • 1:07:08

Dealing with Difficult Emotions with Mollie West Duffy

Dealing with Difficult Emotions with Mollie West Duffy

We all experience big, difficult feelings, from common emotions like uncertainty, anger, despair, and regret, to difficult experiences like the pains of comparison, burnout, and perfectionism. On today’s episode of Being Well Podcast, Forrest is joined by the wonderful author, coach, and content creator Mollie West Duffy to explore how we can accept those big feelings, learn to live alongside them, and develop tools that help us deal with them more effectively.About Our Guest: Mollie is

Aug 29, 2022 • 1:11:25

How to Use Your Diagnosis (Without It Using You)

How to Use Your Diagnosis (Without It Using You)

Receiving a diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, and leave a person with a lot of understandable questions: What does this mean? What do I do now? How do I relate to this?On this episode Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson explore what a diagnosis is, how the diagnostic process works, the limitations of diagnosing someone, dealing with the emotions that come up, and how we can better think about and relate to receiving a diagnosis. Throughout the conversation they focus on how we can come

Aug 22, 2022 • 1:07:16

Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy with Dr. Albert Garcia Romeu

Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy with Dr. Albert Garcia Romeu

There’s been an explosion of interest in psychedelics over the last 10 years, and phrases like “psychedelic-assisted therapy” have gone from the relative fringes of the mental health conversation to bursting into the mainstream. Alongside a great deal of hype is a growing body of research revealing the potential of substances like psilocybin and MDMA as novel treatments for depression, addiction, and PTSD. On today’s episode of Being Well, Forrest is joined by Dr. Albert Garcia-Romeu fr

Aug 15, 2022 • 1:08:43

Relating to Death, and Living a Better Life

Relating to Death, and Living a Better Life

The median life expectancy for a man living in the United States is roughly 80 years. That works out to 960 months, 4,160 weeks, or about 29,000 days. Rick is sneaking up on 70 years old, which means, on average, he's got about 10 years – or 520 weeks – left. Putting the time we have left into simple numbers can be both a bit daunting and remarkably clarifying. When you're in the middle of them, the days can blur together. But the truth is that our time’s limited, and how we use it is u

Aug 8, 2022 • 1:00:36

Changing Your Relationship to Shame

Changing Your Relationship to Shame

Shame is one of the most complex and difficult emotions we experience on a regular basis, and one that can have seriously negative impacts on our sense of self-worth and ability to experience healthy connection with others.On this episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson take a deep dive into what shame is, how it develops, and what distinguishes it from guilt and other related emotions. They then focus on questioning our assumptions about shame, which can help us identify whe

Aug 1, 2022 • 1:00:29

The Grieving Brain with Dr. Mary-Frances O'Connor

The Grieving Brain with Dr. Mary-Frances O'Connor

There’s a lot of loss in the world these days, both in our individual lives and in our broader communities, and with those losses comes grief. Grief is one of the most challenging emotions to be with, and it can be difficult to offer generalized advice because everyone's experience of grief is profoundly unique. On today’s episode of Being Well, Forrest is joined by one of the world’s leading researchers on grief, Dr. Mary-Frances O’Connor, to help us better understand grief and grievin

Jul 25, 2022 • 1:11:17

Borderline Personality Disorder: Regulation, Nurturance, and Compassion

Borderline Personality Disorder: Regulation, Nurturance, and Compassion

One of the most important and challenging skills we can develop is learning to regulate our strong emotions. While it’s very natural to have fluctuations in how we feel about others and ourselves, for some people these ups and downs are particularly intense. At clinical levels, this is known as Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). BPD is characterized by a pattern of instability in a person’s emotions, moods, behavior, self-image, and relationships. BPD is fairly common, and it's even

Jul 18, 2022 • 1:01:09

How to Make Learning STICK

How to Make Learning STICK

One of the most important skills we can develop is learning how to learn–how to update old beliefs about ourselves, take in new information, and build psychological resources like courage, gratitude, and confidence. We have experiences from which we could potentially learn all the time, but how often are we able to actually implement lasting change from our positive experiences?On this episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson dive into Rick’s recently published study on our ca

Jul 11, 2022 • 1:02:10

Rediscovering Your True Self: Parentification and the "Gifted Child"

Rediscovering Your True Self: Parentification and the "Gifted Child"

When a child is particularly emotionally intelligent, and a parent is particularly emotionally vulnerable, an inversion of the typical relationship can occur where the child devotes themselves to meeting the parent’s needs rather than the other way around. This can lead the child to lose touch with their own wants and needs – with their authentic self – which then leads to underlying feelings of worthlessness, uncertainty, and self-alienation in adulthood.Extreme versions of this patter

Jul 4, 2022 • 1:02:51

Connecting with Your Best Parts

Connecting with Your Best Parts

A little while ago, we had an episode on self-awareness where Rick emphasized how the majority of what people have to become self-aware of is the good inside themselves. The point felt significant enough to expand into a full episode about how to connect with our best parts.On this episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson focus on how to accept, appreciate, and connect with our positive aspects, and how to deal with some of the developmental blocks that prevent us from embraci

Jun 27, 2022 • 55:39

Recovering from Complex PTSD with Elizabeth Ferreira

Recovering from Complex PTSD with Elizabeth Ferreira

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) is the result of the slow accumulation of many small traumatic experiences over time. On our most popular Being Well episode to date, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson explored the details of CPTSD with Pete Walker, and on today’s episode, Forrest is joined by his partner Elizabeth Ferreira to discuss the topic through a more personal lens. Elizabeth shares her CPTSD origin story, what CPTSD feels like, and how to create a compassionate environme

Jun 20, 2022 • 1:11:45

Attachment, and Cultivating Nonattachment

Attachment, and Cultivating Nonattachment

You might have heard the line “attachment is the root of suffering.” It comes from the Buddha, but you don’t have to be a Buddhist to recognize that becoming overly attached to a particular outcome, person, or view of yourself can lead to a lot of suffering. At the same time, there are clearly things that are sensible to be attached to – like our loved ones, a basic moral compass, and fundamentals like food and shelter. So, what’s the problem with attachment?On this episode of Being Wel

Jun 13, 2022 • 1:01:20

Intimacy, Individuality, and Breaking the Trauma Cycle with Terry Real

Intimacy, Individuality, and Breaking the Trauma Cycle with Terry Real

On one of our favorite episodes of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson are joined by author and therapist Terry Real to talk about how to overcome the myth of toxic individualism, break trauma cycles, and experience real intimacy in our relationships. They discuss how to balance acceptance and agency, develop a healthy sense of trust and self-esteem, communicate what we want effectively, and experience our power through collaboration rather than dominance. Terry describes how we can

Jun 6, 2022 • 1:10:53

Overcoming Comparison and Accepting Ordinary with Dr. Ron Siegel

Overcoming Comparison and Accepting Ordinary with Dr. Ron Siegel

When was the last time you went through a day without comparing yourself to anyone? For instance, by comparing your life to someone else’s highlight reel on social media, or being critical of your own willpower and abilities? Avoiding these mental traps can be difficult in a culture that emphasizes the importance of being 'special.'Of course, we are all special – and all ordinary. On this episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson are joined by psychologist and author Dr. Ronald

May 30, 2022 • 1:03:05

Working with Anger: Costs and Benefits, Repression, and the "Empty Boat"

Working with Anger: Costs and Benefits, Repression, and the "Empty Boat"

Anger is one of the most complex, demanding, and difficult emotions we deal with on a regular basis, in part because it has both many costs and many uses. It burdens our bodies, relationships, and the world around us. And at the same time, there is a vital energy associated with anger that is extremely powerful and, when harnessed effectively, quite useful.On this episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson explore the varied ways anger surfaces, how we can relate to it, and how

May 23, 2022 • 53:04

Increasing Self-Awareness: The Key to Personal Growth

Increasing Self-Awareness: The Key to Personal Growth

Self-awareness is both one of the most important skills for a person to have, and one of the most challenging to develop. In this episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson explore what it takes to increase self-awareness over time, the different forms of awareness that come into play, and why maintaining self-awareness can be such a struggle. Rick then emphasizes how we can develop a greater awareness of the positive aspects of ourselves. Watch the Episode: Prefer watching vide

May 16, 2022 • 1:06:55

Changing Old Patterns, Self-Awareness, and Repairing Family Relationships: Mailbag

Changing Old Patterns, Self-Awareness, and Repairing Family Relationships: Mailbag

Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson open up the mailbag to explore a variety of listener questions. They talk about what causes our brains to become attached to unwanted habits, how to know which of your thoughts are worth listening to, and the pros and cons of saying "kind of." They then consider how to improve sibling relationships, and what to do with the positive emotions we experience during meditation.Have a question for us? Email: contact@beingwellpodcast.com to submit questions or topic

May 9, 2022 • 57:19

Maximize Your Motivation: Dopamine, Discipline, and Accepting Our Nature

Maximize Your Motivation: Dopamine, Discipline, and Accepting Our Nature

We all have things we want to accomplish in life, but having goals or knowing we should be doing something is often not nearly enough to get us to actually sustain our efforts in getting where we want to go.Today on Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson explore how to optimize our motivation. They discuss the brain's dopamine system, and distinguish motivation from discipline and liking from wanting. They then explore how we can align the brain's underlying biological circuitry with o

May 2, 2022 • 1:03:19

Preventing Secondary Trauma and Compassion Fatigue with Laura van Dernoot Lipsky

Preventing Secondary Trauma and Compassion Fatigue with Laura van Dernoot Lipsky

With so much suffering going on in the world that’s worthy of our compassion and engagement, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by it even as we have the desire to remain engaged. Secondary traumatic stress is the stress we are exposed to when we interact with other people’s stress, and it manifests at both an individual and societal level. When not managed effectively, it wears us down and diminishes our ability to contribute in a positive way.On this episode of Being Well, Forrest talks

Apr 25, 2022 • 52:01

Rumination: How to Disrupt Obsessive Thoughts

Rumination: How to Disrupt Obsessive Thoughts

It’s normal and healthy for us to try to process our experiences emotionally, but sometimes during that process we find ourselves getting stuck on the same painful memory, anxiety, or disturbing thought. This frustrating experience, known as rumination, is a common psychological challenge that is both discouraging and unhelpful.On this episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson spell out what rumination is, where it comes from, and how it functions in the brain. They then explor

Apr 18, 2022 • 1:02:13

Navigating Modern Dating with Logan Ury

Navigating Modern Dating with Logan Ury

We’ve spent a lot of time on the podcast exploring how we can improve our skills in romantic relationships, but for many people one of the most difficult parts of a relationship is getting into one in the first place. On this episode, Forrest talks with Logan Ury, Director of Relationship Science at the dating app Hinge, about the psychology of dating. They explore chemistry, romance, apps, and how to reframe our self-limiting tendencies so we can find love that is fulfilling and brings

Apr 11, 2022 • 58:15

Understand and Manage Stress: Causes, Biological Basis, and Increasing Resilience

Understand and Manage Stress: Causes, Biological Basis, and Increasing Resilience

On this episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson take a deep dive into defining stress, how it functions, how it impacts our lives and bodies, and what we can do to repair from its effects. We discuss how to distinguish stress from effort, the influence of the modern world on how stressed we feel, the various biological mechanisms involved in stress, and the challenges presented by chronic exposure to it. We then consider what we can do to increase resilience, including positively respondin

Apr 4, 2022 • 1:05:29

Use the Enneagram to Rewrite Your Story with Ian Cron

Use the Enneagram to Rewrite Your Story with Ian Cron

One of the most effective ways to change how we show up in the world is to identify and change our underlying personal narrative. On this episode, Forrest Hanson talks with Ian Cron about how we can use the Enneagram personality typing system to aid us in this process.About our Guest: Ian Cron is a therapist, master Enneagram teacher, best-selling author of The Road Back to You and his latest The Story of You, and host of popular Enneagram podcast Typology.Watch the Episode: Prefer watc

Mar 28, 2022 • 55:57

Hedonic Adaptation: Causes, Critiques, and How to Stay Happy

Hedonic Adaptation: Causes, Critiques, and How to Stay Happy

We’ve talked on this show about lots of ways we can be happier over time, but one of the hardest things to do is to STAY happy as the events of life wash over us. On today’s episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson explore "hedonic adaptation" - our tendency to return to a stable baseline of happiness - and discuss how we can get off the "hedonic treadmill." Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You can watch this episode on YouTube.Key Topics:0:00: Introduction2:25: What

Mar 21, 2022 • 59:32

The Science of "Self" with Dr. Jud Brewer

The Science of "Self" with Dr. Jud Brewer

One of the underlying threads that runs through many of our conversations on Being Well is our relationship with our “self”. On this episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson talk with neuroscientist, mindfulness researcher, and bestselling author Dr. Jud Brewer about where we can find the “self” in the brain, and the benefits of relaxing our attachment to it.About our Guest: Dr. Jud Brewer is the Director of Research and Innovation at the Mindfulness Center and associate professor in Behavioral and

Mar 14, 2022 • 1:16:05

Supporting Yourself During Difficult Times

Supporting Yourself During Difficult Times

The tone of this episode of Being Well is a bit different. For context, we recorded it four days after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. It feels like we've had more than our fair share of difficult times over the last few years. Like many people, we wish there were more we could do to support those suffering around the world. Today Dr. Rick and Forrest focus on what we can do, in our mind and in our lives, to relate to the challenging emotions – fear, grief, anxiety, anger, helplessness

Mar 7, 2022 • 1:00:48

Coping with Failure, and Dealing with Disappointment

Coping with Failure, and Dealing with Disappointment

One of the most important skills we can develop is the ability to deal with disappointment and cope with failures big and small. On this episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson discuss what it looks like to experience failure not as falling short, but as an opportunity for growth. They explore cultural narratives around "failure," individual variation in sensitivity, and how to manage the pain of failure, adapt expectations, and develop systems of feedback to allow for a grea

Feb 28, 2022 • 55:42

Standing Up for What You Believe In with Todd Kashdan

Standing Up for What You Believe In with Todd Kashdan

There’s a tension we’ve all felt at some point between the benefits of conformity and the desire to be true to ourselves and stand up for what we think is right. On today’s episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson are joined by Dr. Todd Kashdan to explore how we can combine prosocial values with principled insubordination, so we can speak up for others (and ourselves) and maximize our chances of creating meaningful change even in the face of social pressure.About Our Guest: Dr

Feb 21, 2022 • 1:06:59

The Secret to Solving Most Psychological Problems: Integration

The Secret to Solving Most Psychological Problems: Integration

We explore a lot of big ideas on this show, and alongside them a lot of specific tactics and frameworks that can support people in growing and changing for the better. This includes everything from how to get the most out of therapy, to how to deal with traumatic experiences, to how to manage a variety of psychological conditions and individual tendencies. There’s a question that underlies all of these domains: how does personal healing actually work?On today’s episode of Being Well, Dr

Feb 14, 2022 • 57:26

Family Challenges, Financial Risks, and Connecting With a Wounded Inner Child: Mailbag

Family Challenges, Financial Risks, and Connecting With a Wounded Inner Child: Mailbag

We’re incredibly lucky to have such an engaged and interested group of people listening to the podcast, and because of that we regularly receive a lot of interesting questions via email and social media (links below). On today’s episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson dive into a few of these questions, discussing topics such as: how to manage family relationships, principles for approaching life’s changes, and what kind of therapy Rick actually practices.Watch the Episode: Prefer watching

Feb 7, 2022 • 1:01:17

Embracing Uncertainty with Kaira Jewel Lingo

Embracing Uncertainty with Kaira Jewel Lingo

Kaira Jewel Lingo, a former Buddhist nun at the Plum Village community under the guidance of Thich Naht Han, joins Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson to explore how we can cultivate trust and equanimity in the face of uncertainty. They discuss the somatic experience of opening to the unknown, taking action as an antidote to anxiety, and how to have equanimity both when things work out...and when they don’t.About our Guest: Kaira Jewel Lingo is a Buddhist teacher who weaves mindfulness and medi

Jan 31, 2022 • 57:15

Creating an Abundance Mindset

Creating an Abundance Mindset

So many forces in our brains, bodies, and culture move us toward the experience of scarcity – that something is missing, that we don’t have enough, and that we never will have enough. The feeling of scarcity both feels bad in itself, and is also the creator and amplifier of so many other challenges we face. On this episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson talk about what a scarcity and an abundance mindset is, what some sources of scarcity are, and how we can move to an authentic exper

Jan 24, 2022 • 1:07:28

How to Find Your Passion and Purpose

How to Find Your Passion and Purpose

Most people abandon their New Year's Resolutions by mid-January. This often occurs because people make resolutions based on what they feel like they should want, rather than what they actually do want. In other words, their goals and resolutions aren’t in alignment with their purpose.On this episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson discuss how we can identify and pursue our purpose, and why it’s so valuable to have one in the first place. They explore questions and strategies

Jan 17, 2022 • 1:04:44

Finding Joy in the Face of Challenges

Finding Joy in the Face of Challenges

Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson are joined by James Baraz, a meditation teacher for over 40 years and cofounder of Spirit Rock Meditation Center, to explore how we can find still find joy during difficult times. We discuss how to balance a sense of equanimity with compassion for the suffering of the world, and how cultivating joy at an individual level can support healing at the collective level.About our Guest: James is the coauthor of Awakening Joy: 10 Steps to True Happiness, and leads t

Jan 10, 2022 • 56:08

How to Use Mindfulness to Beat Depression with Dr. Zindel Segal

How to Use Mindfulness to Beat Depression with Dr. Zindel Segal

On today’s episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson talk with Dr. Zindel Segal about Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), an eight-week group therapy program designed to help those who suffer from chronic unhappiness and prevent relapse after episodes of severe clinical depression.About our Guest: Dr. Segal is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Toronto at Scarborough, and one of the creators of MBCT. He specializes in mood disorders, particularly depression,

Jan 3, 2022 • 55:29

How to Get More From 2022

How to Get More From 2022

Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson reflect on 2021, and explore how to maximize what we get out of 2022. We discuss how to rest in our aspirations, claim identity-based change, reframe personal narratives, and form the habits that lead to a more grounded, meaningful life.Thank you for listening over the last year, looking forward to much more!Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You can watch this episode on YouTube.From Dr. Hanson: The Foundations of Well-Being brings together the lesson

Dec 27, 2021 • 1:08:02

Navigating Estrangement Situations

Navigating Estrangement Situations

We’ve received a substantial number of questions from our listeners regarding familial estrangement: when one family member distances themselves from the others, or chooses not to interact with them at all. It’s a common and extremely challenging situation, and the pain related to it can be particularly intense during the holidays.Today on Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson discuss family estrangement, particularly between parents and children, and how the questions we engage in th

Dec 20, 2021 • 1:20:45

Dating 101: Green and Red Flags, Your First Fight, Dealing With Rejection

Dating 101: Green and Red Flags, Your First Fight, Dealing With Rejection

Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson expand their conversation focused on finding a long-term partner to include what traits to look for, and how to navigate early sticking points. They discuss life growth curves, how to manage early conflict, healthy approaches for dealing with rejection, and how to support those still navigating a difficult search.Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You can watch this episode on YouTube.From Dr. Hanson: The Foundations of Well-Being brings together the l

Dec 13, 2021 • 1:06:43

How to Find a Long-Term Relationship: Intention, Skills, and Marketing

How to Find a Long-Term Relationship: Intention, Skills, and Marketing

We’ve spent a lot of time on Being Well discussing how to improve our relationships - how to navigate conflict effectively, communicate more skillfully, and create a romantic relationship that’s truly fulfilling - but we’ve spent very little time talking about how to get into one of those relationships in the first place.Today, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson talk about how to maximize your chances of finding a fulfilling long-term relationship. They explore how to develop a clear intention

Dec 6, 2021 • 1:06:00

Existential Dread, and Overcoming an Existential Crisis

Existential Dread, and Overcoming an Existential Crisis

It’s natural to have moments – even in the course of a generally happy, mostly fulfilling life – where we question our meaning, value, and purpose. This "existential dread" sometimes culminates in an "existential crisis." Today Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson consider how we can confront these basic questions with acceptance and curiosity, and find the meaning and purpose that can help us live good lives.If you're in crisis, are thinking about suicide, or are concerned about a loved one, pl

Nov 29, 2021 • 56:20

Moving Past Perfectionism and Unhealthy Striving with Dr. Diana Hill

Moving Past Perfectionism and Unhealthy Striving with Dr. Diana Hill

How can we aim high, achieve our goals, and get what we want out of life without falling prey to unhealthy striving and excessive perfectionism? Dr. Diana Hill joins Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson to explore the costs of perfectionism, productivity anxiety, psychological flexibility, calming the threat system, and how we can go from striving to thriving. About Our Guest: Dr. Diana Hill specializes in evidence-based and compassion-focused approaches to living well. She has a thriving privat

Nov 22, 2021 • 1:08:07

Creating a Secure Relationship with Elizabeth Earnshaw

Creating a Secure Relationship with Elizabeth Earnshaw

We all want a relationship that's more than just functional, we want one that's truly fulfilling. On today's episode Forrest is joined by a wonderful therapist and author who focuses on giving people the tools they need to communicate, navigate hard times, and create deeper connections with other people: Elizabeth Earnshaw. They explore: How the pandemic impacted our relationshipsThe Gottman approachThe stages of a relationshipBalancing differing needs for intimacyHow to request, and give, repai

Nov 15, 2021 • 1:09:02

Life's Essential Psychological Skills, Part 2

Life's Essential Psychological Skills, Part 2

Today we're continuing our exploration of the key inner strengths and psychological skills we truly feel like we couldn’t live without. In the second of two episodes dedicated to this topic, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson talk about joy, seeing the mind's deceits, keeping your good humor, the wild spirit, and finding meaning.Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You  can watch this episode on YouTube.From Dr. Hanson: The Foundations of Well-Being brings together the lessons of a lifeti

Nov 8, 2021 • 46:43

10 Skills We Can't Live Without: Part 1

10 Skills We Can't Live Without: Part 1

Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson explore which key inner strengths and psychological skills they truly feel like they couldn’t live without. In the first of two episodes dedicated to this topic, they talk about benevolence, patience, curiosity, self-regulation, and grit. Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You can watch this episode on YouTube.From Dr. Hanson: The Foundations of Well-Being brings together the lessons of a lifetime of practice into one year-long online program. Our holi

Nov 1, 2021 • 47:15

Healing Your Attachment Wounds with Dr. Diane Poole Heller

Healing Your Attachment Wounds with Dr. Diane Poole Heller

Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson focus on two of our most important subjects, attachment wounds and traumatic experiences, with a longtime therapist, trainer of therapists, and world-class expert on attachment theory: Dr. Diane Poole Heller. About our Guest: Dr. Heller focuses on using somatic, or body-based, approaches to help people resolve the painful experiences and negative patterns that hold us back. Her work on adult attachment has created a path for adults with childhood attachment i

Oct 25, 2021 • 1:01:30

Building a Better Relationship with Yourself

Building a Better Relationship with Yourself

The most important relationship we have is with ourselves. You’re the only person you’ll be around every minute of every day for the rest of your life. And, unfortunately, that relationship is often our most difficult one. Today Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson explore how we can become better friends to ourselves, and learn to like ourselves more.Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You  can watch this episode on YouTube.Key Topics:0:00: Introduction2:20: What does it mean to “like our

Oct 18, 2021 • 51:33

How to Create a Relationship That Lasts

How to Create a Relationship That Lasts

How can we create relationships that last? On this episode of Being Well, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson lean on Rick's 35+ years of couples counseling experience to explore how we can build relationships that are loving, healthy, enjoyable, and reliable. This includes learning the structure of most relationship problems, how to make vulnerable communications, and how to stay open to change.Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You  can watch this episode on YouTube.Key Topics:0:00: In

Oct 11, 2021 • 1:01:24

Unwinding Anxiety and Addiction with Dr. Jud Brewer

Unwinding Anxiety and Addiction with Dr. Jud Brewer

In one of our favorite conversations, Dr. Jud Brewer joins us to explore the habit of anxiety, mindfulness practices to heal addiction, and what we can learn from the brains of the world’s most advanced meditators.About Our Guest: Dr. Jud is a psychiatrist, neuroscientist and New York Times best-selling author. He’s the director of research and innovation at Brown University’s Mindfulness Center, where he also serves as an associate professor, as well as the executive medical director o

Oct 4, 2021 • 1:09:34

Debunking Self-Help's BIGGEST Myths: No Pain No Gain, Hedonic Adaptation, and Meditation

Debunking Self-Help's BIGGEST Myths: No Pain No Gain, Hedonic Adaptation, and Meditation

In the second of two episodes, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson explore common self-help myths and misconceptions, including ones related to hedonic adaptation, "no pain no gain," and meditation.Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You  can watch this episode on YouTube.Key Topics:0:00: Introduction2:30: Misconception #1: People can’t really change in lasting ways/Hedonic adaptation stops people from becoming happier.17:00: Misconception #2: No pain, no gain. What doesn’t kill you makes

Sep 27, 2021 • 1:05:48

Self-Help's BIGGEST Misconceptions: Therapy, Trauma, and Resilience

Self-Help's BIGGEST Misconceptions: Therapy, Trauma, and Resilience

As mental health and the psychological sciences have gone increasingly mainstream, so too have some common misconceptions and misunderstandings. In the first of two episodes, Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson explore some of the biggest misconceptions related to therapy, trauma, and what it means to be "resilient."Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You  can watch this episode on YouTube.Support the Podcast: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link. M

Sep 20, 2021 • 54:56

Dealing with PMDD with Elizabeth Ferreira

Dealing with PMDD with Elizabeth Ferreira

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or PMDD, is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome that includes severe anxiety, depression, and feelings of shame. It affects 5-10% of women, and most don't even know they have it. On today's episode, Forrest is joined by his partner Elizabeth Ferreira to explore what PMDD is, how to know if you might have it, effective practices for managing PMDD, and how to create a happy, healthy, fulfilling relationship alongside it. About Our Guest: Elizabeth is a

Sep 13, 2021 • 1:01:36

Avoidance: How to Stop Procrastination and Worry

Avoidance: How to Stop Procrastination and Worry

Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson explore what "avoidant behavior" is, common forms it takes, and what we can do to limit its unhealthy aspects.Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You can watch this episode on YouTube.Support the Podcast: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link. Membership includes expanded show notes and transcripts of the episodes. Key Topics:0:00: Introduction2:10: Approaching, Avoiding, and Abiding4:25: Common Forms of Avoidance7

Sep 6, 2021 • 53:57

Deconstructing Yourself with Michael Taft

Deconstructing Yourself with Michael Taft

What goes into making "a self," and how can we bring together the many aspects of who we are? Today Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson talk with meditation teacher, bestselling author, and podcaster (and their good friend) Michael Taft about moving from the spiritual to the secular and back again, ego dissolution, and how we can deconstruct ourselves.About Our Guest: Michael is a meditation teacher, bestselling author and neuroscience junkie. He’s been practicing meditation for over 35 years,

Aug 30, 2021 • 52:38

Overcome Your Limiting Beliefs

Overcome Your Limiting Beliefs

We all have limiting beliefs: patterns of think about ourselves and the world that tend to hold us back. On this episode Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson explore how we can push back on these problematic beliefs and build more supportive ones.Change Your Mind Workshop: Learn how to step out of old assumptions and attitudes, free yourself from limiting beliefs, and cultivate more useful, hopeful thoughts about yourself and others during this new workshop from Dr. Rick Hanson. Attend this onli

Aug 23, 2021 • 55:21

Break Your Old Patterns

Break Your Old Patterns

We all have times in life where it feels like we’re stagnating. We’re unfulfilled, bored, or trapped in cycles of behavior that don’t serve us. We’re stuck in a rut. Today Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson explore how we can break old patterns, and get un-stuck.Change Your Mind Workshop: Learn how to step out of old assumptions and attitudes, free yourself from limiting beliefs, and cultivate more useful, hopeful thoughts about yourself and others during this new workshop from Dr. Rick Hanson

Aug 16, 2021 • 55:16

Finding and Maintaining Fulfillment

Finding and Maintaining Fulfillment

We're all searching for fulfillment in one way or another. Today Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson discuss how we can find and maintain it, and if it's truly possible to be fulfilled all the time. We're exploring how we can relate to our low moments amidst a "good vibes only" culture, what gets in the way of fulfillment, and the importance of respecting individual differences in nature. Here's the video about fulfillment on Forrest's channel that we refer to during the episode.Support the Pod

Aug 9, 2021 • 54:36

How to Change for Good with Dr. Katy Milkman

How to Change for Good with Dr. Katy Milkman

Though there’s no lack of advice out there, changing in lasting ways is hard. Today Forrest and Dr. Rick Hanson are joined by Dr. Katy Milkman, an expert on the science of change, to explore how we can build better habits, sustain motivation, and change for good. About Our Guest: Dr. Katy Milkman is a Professor at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Her research explores ways that insights from economics and psychology can be harnessed to change consequential behaviors

Aug 2, 2021 • 1:02:44

Become Less Resentful

Become Less Resentful

When we’re hurt in our relationships, it’s normal to experience resentment. We don’t talk about resentment very much, we’re more likely to talk about anger, fear, or sadness. But resentment is a combination of all of those difficult feelings that causes as much harm to our relationships – and to our own well-being – as any other emotion. In this episode, Forrest and Dr. Rick Hanson explore resentment:  where it comes from, what it does, and what we can do about it.Watch the Episode: Pre

Jul 26, 2021 • 1:03:49

Uncovering Your Natural Goodness with Tara Brach

Uncovering Your Natural Goodness with Tara Brach

Tara Brach joins Dr. Rick Hanson to help us learn how to "trust the gold:" recognizing and appreciating our essential human goodness, while resting in the key refuges of truth, love, and freedom.About our Guest:  Tara is the founder and guiding teacher of the Insight Meditation Community of Washington, D.C. Tara has taught all over the world, and is the author of four books, including her most recent book Trusting the Gold: Uncovering Your Natural Goodness. You can also find Tara throug

Jul 19, 2021 • 1:00:40

Learning When to Let Go

Learning When to Let Go

Most personal growth content out there suggests having a "never give up" mindset. But the truth is that a big part of life is deciding when it's time to stop investing our limited effort into that job, skill, or relationship that's no longer serving you. Today Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest explore how to determine when it's time for things to end, dealing with disappointment, giving ourselves credit for our good efforts, and getting excited about what's to come.Support the Podcast: We're

Jul 12, 2021 • 57:47

How Speech Shapes Your Identity with Dr. Katherine Kinzler

How Speech Shapes Your Identity with Dr. Katherine Kinzler

Forrest is joined by pioneering psychologist Dr. Katherine Kinzler to explore how our speech shapes our social identity, and the views we hold about other people.A big part of human nature is to rapidly sort people into two groups: “like me,” and “not like me.” Our general tendency is to gravitate toward people we perceive as “like me,” and avoid and oppose people we perceive as “not like me.” We use many different kinds of markers to determine which group a person belongs to: markers l

Jul 5, 2021 • 1:00:34

What to Do When Things End

What to Do When Things End

Life includes many major culminating moments: we finish the big work project, receive the award, watch the kids leave home, go on the vacation, win the title, or enter retirement. These experiences can come with enormous fulfillment…for a while. And then, we might ask ourselves: Now what? Today Rick and Forrest explore that question, including how we can relate to the past, integrate learning, turn toward the future, and age well through life. Support the Podcast: We're now on Patreon!

Jun 28, 2021 • 53:03

Internal Family Systems Therapy with Dr. Richard Schwartz

Internal Family Systems Therapy with Dr. Richard Schwartz

We all have different parts inside of us. This is perfectly normal, not psychotic. But our relationship with some parts is often better than others, and a wonderful path to healing and growth is to repair our relationship with all of our parts. That's the premise of Internal Family Systems Therapy, and today Forrest is exploring this powerful modality with the founder of IFS: Dr. Richard Schwartz.It's a special episode that includes a live demonstration of an IFS session between Forrest

Jun 21, 2021 • 51:57

Connecting With Your Inner Child

Connecting With Your Inner Child

One of the common topics on the podcast is developmental psychology: how what happened to us as a child can influence our lives today. Alongside that, there can also be a lot of value in reconnecting with the person we were when we were young, before the world got in the way. This can give us a sense of our true nature, and new ideas for how to become an ever-more-complete version of ourselves out in the world.Follow this link to watch the conversation on YouTube!Support the Podcast: We

Jun 14, 2021 • 56:01

Fierce Compassion with Dr. Kristin Neff

Fierce Compassion with Dr. Kristin Neff

People generally think of self-compassion as a "soft" emotion that helps us comfort, reassure, and nurture ourselves. Today a pioneer in the field of compassion research, Dr. Kristin Neff, joins the show to explore the fierce side of self-compassion, including how it can help us draw healthy boundaries, take necessary action, and stand against injustice.About Our Guest: Dr. Kristin Neff is an Associate Professor at the University of Texas at Austin. She conducted the first empirical stu

Jun 7, 2021 • 1:01:04

How to Make a Big Decision

How to Make a Big Decision

Some of the most important moments of our lives are crossroads of different kinds. There’s a big decision, and we have to pick one thing over another. Today Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore how to make the important decisions in life. Support the Podcast: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Key Topics:2:00: Common themes in big decisions.5:00: Balancing short- and long-term decisions.10:15: Knowing your own nature, and having different priorities.1

May 31, 2021 • 1:08:44

Being with Grief with Dr. Joanne Cacciatore

Being with Grief with Dr. Joanne Cacciatore

In this conversation from the Life After COVID Summit, Dr. Joanne Cacciatore joins Forrest to help us put the past in perspective, and relate in healthier and more whole ways to the many things we've lost over the past year. Last weekend Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest Hanson were joined by 11 world-class experts for a FREE three-day online event to explore how we can recover from old wounds, build key strengths, and create a better future together. Over 10,000 people joined us for the Summit, and w

May 24, 2021 • 1:07:31

Dealing with Life's Disruptions

Dealing with Life's Disruptions

Today we’re focusing on a topic that’s been particularly important over the last year: how we can deal more effectively with life's major disruptions. This includes recovering from setbacks, finding the opportunities, and even getting the most out of disruptions that are positive. Life After COVID Summit: Join Dr. Rick Hanson, Forrest Hanson, and a roster of world-class experts during this FREE three-day online event to explore our life after COVID. Click here to learn more about the Su

May 17, 2021 • 1:03:12

Meeting Your Internal Family with Susan McConnell

Meeting Your Internal Family with Susan McConnell

We usually experience ourselves as being one "self," but we all have different characters, different "parts," running around inside our heads. And our relationship with some parts is better than others. Today's guest, Susan McConnell, joins Forrest to explore Somatic Internal Family Systems, a powerful form of therapy that helps us bring those parts together as a unified self.About Our Guest: Susan is a senior trainer for the IFS Institute, and has taught Internal Family Systems both in

May 10, 2021 • 57:45

The Heart of Zen with Henry Shukman

The Heart of Zen with Henry Shukman

Henry Shukman, the guiding teacher of Mountain Cloud Zen Center, joins Rick and Forrest to explore self-transcendent experiences, relaxing self-identification, and the warm heart at the core of Zen practice.About our Guest: Henry Shukman is a writer, poet, and Zen Master of the Sanbo Zen lineage. He’s published nine books to date which have won numerous awards, and writes regularly for Tricycle, The New York Times and other publications. His most recent book is One Blade of Grass: Findi

May 3, 2021 • 56:17

The New Normal with Dr. Jennifer Ashton

The New Normal with Dr. Jennifer Ashton

Dr. Jennifer Ashton joins Rick and Forrest to discuss everything you need to know about the current state of the pandemic. This includes what vaccinated people should feel comfortable doing, the J&J vaccine pause, how to think about risk, and how we can support our mental health during the New Normal. About Our Guest: Dr. Ashton is the Chief Medical Correspondent for ABC News, and has appeared on the ABC Network up to 14 hours a day in order to bring viewers important medical information. She is

Apr 26, 2021 • 53:28

Why We Meditate: Purposes, Methods, and Common Misconceptions

Why We Meditate: Purposes, Methods, and Common Misconceptions

What's the "point" of meditation, and how can we build a practice that works for us? In this episode Rick and Forrest clear up some common misconceptions about meditation, explore major forms of meditation, and share how you can get more out of your practice.Life After COVID Summit: Join Dr. Rick Hanson, Forrest Hanson, and a roster of world-class experts during this FREE three-day online event to explore our life after COVID. Click here to learn more about the Summit and register now.Key Topics

Apr 19, 2021 • 53:58

Working With Your Anxiety

Working With Your Anxiety

Over the last year we’ve all been through a lot. In addition to the many major costs, there have been smaller, subtler costs as well, including a pervasive feeling of anxiety. In this episode, Rick and Forrest walk through a normal experience of anxiety and offer some suggestions for how to overcome it. Life After COVID Summit: Join Dr. Rick Hanson, Forrest Hanson, and a roster of world-class experts during this FREE three-day online event to explore our life after COVID. Click here to

Apr 12, 2021 • 47:54

Relaxing the Self with Stephen Snyder

Relaxing the Self with Stephen Snyder

How can we bring useful qualities of contemplative practice into our normal, everyday lives as people living in the real world? Senior meditation teacher and author Stephen Snyder joins us to explore that overarching question, alongside a variety of topics related to “not-self,” the true nature of the self, and self-transcendence.About our Guest: Stephen is a senior meditation teach who has been practicing meditation since 1976. He’s the author of three books, including Buddha’s Heart.

Apr 5, 2021 • 1:07:00

Building Healthy Boundaries with Nedra Tawwab

Building Healthy Boundaries with Nedra Tawwab

One of the hardest, and most important, parts of creating great relationships is setting healthy boundaries with other people. Boundaries expert Nedra Glover Tawwab joins the show to explore how we can trust our instincts, work through codependency, and build better boundaries. About Our Guest: Nedra has been a therapist for 13 years, and focuses on helping people build better relationships by teaching them how to implement healthy boundaries. Her work has been featured in The New York

Mar 29, 2021 • 1:04:36

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with Dr. Steven C. Hayes

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with Dr. Steven C. Hayes

The creator of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dr. Steven C. Hayes, joins the show to help us explore how to use techniques from this powerful approach to therapy to address major challenges and improve our wellbeing.About our Guest: Dr. Steven C. Hayes is Nevada Foundation Professor in the Behavior Analysis program at the Department of Psychology of the University of Nevada. He's the creator of ACT, and the  author of 44 books and over 600 scientific articles. His most recent book i

Mar 22, 2021 • 1:02:57

Becoming Wise with Dr. Roger Walsh

Becoming Wise with Dr. Roger Walsh

How can we bring together psychological science and contemplative practice, and what can we all learn from the world’s great wisdom traditions? Dr. Roger Walsh, a professor of psychiatry, philosophy, and anthropology, and expert on the world's great wisdom traditions, joins the show to help us explore this central question.About Our Guest: Roger is professor of psychiatry, philosophy, and anthropology, as well as professor in the religious studies program at UC Irvine. His scholarship h

Mar 15, 2021 • 1:02:19

Understanding The Replication Crisis

Understanding The Replication Crisis

Ever heard of the marshmallow experiment? The 10,000 hour rule? How about the Dunning-Kruger effect, the Stanford prison experiment, or willpower fatigue? These are some of the most well-known pieces of research from the social sciences. And they all share one problem: they're wrong. Or, at least, they're really misunderstood.On this episode of "10 Good Minutes," Forrest explores social science's Replicability Crisis, and asks whether you can actually trust the research that goes into B

Mar 13, 2021 • 20:45

How to Meet Your Needs for Connection: Attunement

How to Meet Your Needs for Connection: Attunement

During this time of increased isolation our needs for connection are harder to meet than ever. Today Rick and Forrest are exploring how we can use the psychological technique of "attunement" to connect better with others, and meet our own need for connection.Life After COVID Summit: Join Dr. Rick Hanson, Forrest Hanson, and a roster of world-class experts during this FREE three-day online event to explore our life after COVID. Click here to learn more about the Summit and register now.K

Mar 8, 2021 • 1:10:09

Accepting and Identifying Our Needs

Accepting and Identifying Our Needs

Everyone has needs, there’s no avoiding them. In order to "be well" we need to meet those needs. But being "needy" is often viewed as a weakness, and accepting that we have needs can be painful.On today's episode, Rick and Forrest explore how we can accept our needs, identify the needs that are most important to us, and build the resources to meet our needs and the needs of other people. Life After COVID Summit: Join Dr. Rick Hanson, Forrest Hanson, and a roster of world-class experts d

Mar 1, 2021 • 1:09:06

Building The Perfect Relationship with Dr. Stan Tatkin

Building The Perfect Relationship with Dr. Stan Tatkin

Relationships are hard, and making them last is even harder. Today we’re exploring how we can be happier and healthier in all of our relationships with a wonderful clinician, teacher, and researcher: Dr. Stan Tatkin.About our Guest: Dr. Stan Tatkin is an expert on human behavior, and particularly the unique dynamics found in couples relationships. He’s the creator of PACT: the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy, and the author of six bestselling books, including Wired for Love

Feb 22, 2021 • 1:05:53

Personalize Your Nutrition with Dr. Tim Spector

Personalize Your Nutrition with Dr. Tim Spector

We generally focus on topics related to mental health, but there's nothing like a pandemic to throw the importance of our physical health into sharp relief! Today Forrest is joined by Dr. Tim Spector to explore the importance of personalizing your nutrition, how our diet can help fight COVID, and why most everything we've been told about food is wrong. About Our Guest: Dr. Tim Spector is professor of genetic epidemiology and Director of the TwinsUK Registry at Kings College, London. He’

Feb 15, 2021 • 57:44

How to Change Who We Are

How to Change Who We Are

There are times in our lives when we recognize that something’s got to change. Today Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore a big question: What goes into making who we are, and how can we give ourselves the freedom to grow and change over time? Life After COVID Summit: Join Dr. Rick Hanson, Forrest Hanson, and a roster of world-class experts during this FREE three-day online event to explore our life after COVID. Click here to learn more about the Summit and register now.Key Topics:2:00: What

Feb 8, 2021 • 1:20:02

Radical Compassion with Tara Brach

Radical Compassion with Tara Brach

Tara Brach joins Rick and Forrest to explore how we can find more compassion and acceptance while maintaining our motivation to change ourselves, and our world, in positive ways. About Our Guest: Tara is the founder and guiding teacher of the Insight Meditation Community of Washington, D.C., and has a doctorate in clinical psychology. She is the author of three books: Radical Acceptance, True Refuge, and most recently Radical Compassion, and leads one of the largest mental-health and Bu

Feb 1, 2021 • 56:11

Do We Control Our Happiness?

Do We Control Our Happiness?

With so much challenging stuff going on in the world around us these days, it's natural to ask a simple question: how much control do we have over how happy we are?On this episode of "10 Good Minutes," Forrest explores the research behind happiness, reveals the most important factors, and gives some practical advice for maximizing sustainable well-being.If you'd like to watch this episode rather than listen to it, Forrest has a new YouTube channel! Subscribe to the channel, and watch th

Jan 29, 2021 • 20:22

How to Deal with Dissociation

How to Deal with Dissociation

When we’re presented with challenging circumstances it’s natural for us to cope with them through a wide variety of behaviors. Today Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore one of the most common coping mechanisms: dissociation. This includes what it is, the function it serves, the experiences that can lead to dissociation, and what we can do about it.Support the Podcast: We're on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Key Topics:2:00: What is dissociation?9:35: “Fragmen

Jan 25, 2021 • 1:00:14

How to Cope During a Pandemic with Dr. Bruce Perry

How to Cope During a Pandemic with Dr. Bruce Perry

On this timely episode, Dr. Bruce Perry joins the podcast to explore how we can limit the long-term impact of stressful events, and heal from past traumatic experiences. About Our Guest:  Dr. Bruce Perry is one of the world’s leading experts on childhood trauma, and his clinical research and practice focuses on examining the long-term effects of trauma in children, adolescents, and adults. He is the Senior Fellow of The ChildTrauma Academy, and the author, with Maia Szalavitz, of The Boy Who Was

Jan 18, 2021 • 51:30

Being More, Doing Less

Being More, Doing Less

We’re somehow both more efficient than ever before, and, at the same time, busier than ever before.  All of the many ways that we’ve found to optimize our performance has led to much more "doing," and not nearly as much "being." Today Rick and Forrest explore how we can get more in touch with being, and how by focusing more on "being" we might even be able to "do" more than ever before. Support the Podcast: We're on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Key Ide

Jan 11, 2021 • 45:37

Optimism and Influence with Dr. Tali Sharot

Optimism and Influence with Dr. Tali Sharot

What allows people to push on even during the darkest times?  And how can we use that answer to influence our behavior, or the behavior of other people? Today Rick and Forrest are joined by Dr. Tali Sharot to explore the optimism bias, how optimism can exist alongside negativity, and how we can influence others more effectively. About our Guest: Dr. Sharot is a Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at University College London, and the director of the Affective Brain Lab. She’s also the a

Jan 4, 2021 • 50:05

Guided Practice: Achieving Your New Year's Resolutions

Guided Practice: Achieving Your New Year's Resolutions

What do you want to achieve in 2021? In this short episode, Dr. Rick Hanson walks you through a guided practice focused on helping you achieve your goals. From Dr. Hanson: The Foundations of Well-Being brings together the lessons of a lifetime of practice into one year-long online program. Podcast listeners can use the code BEINGWELL25 at checkout for an additional 25% off! Please don't hesitate to apply for a scholarship if you're in need. Support the Podcast: We're on Patreon! If you'

Jan 1, 2021 • 17:54

How to Make 2021 Your Best Year

How to Make 2021 Your Best Year

We all have something we want to do "someday," but for most of us "someday" just never seems to come around. Here's how to make 2021 the year you finally put all the pieces together, and achieve the goals you've set for yourself.Key Topics:4:00: What leads to change that lasts?5:40: Do you really WANT to change?9:00: How to change your self-concept. 14:00: “Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good.”16:00: Small changes that lead to big ones.20:00: Appreciating the finite nature of

Dec 28, 2020 • 53:57

Facing Your Dreaded Experience

Facing Your Dreaded Experience

We all have things that frighten us. But some fears can become so core to who we are that we start to organize our lives around not having to experience them. In this not-to-be-missed episode, Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore how we can identify and face our "dreaded experiences," which exert a quiet power over our lives. Support the Podcast: We're on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Key Topics:2:40: What is a “dreaded experience?”6:40: The three step proces

Dec 21, 2020 • 55:55

Why Does Therapy Work?

Why Does Therapy Work?

Why does talking to a therapist have such a huge impact on people's lives? On the first edition of "10 Good Minutes," Forrest Hanson dives into the research behind the key factor in any therapeutic relationship. If you enjoy this episode, you'll love our Patreon account!Studies:Psychotherapy is as effective for the treatment of depression as medication.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is particularly effective when it comes to treating depression and anxiety disorders.Only a few of the studies demon

Dec 18, 2020 • 13:50

Compassion, Power, and Human Nature with Dr. Dacher Keltner

Compassion, Power, and Human Nature with Dr. Dacher Keltner

Does power corrupt? Where does compassion come from? And do positive or negative emotions serve as the basis for our true nature? Today we're exploring these questions with Dr. Dacher Keltner, a world-class expert on emotion, power, and morality.About Our Guest: Dr. Keltner is a professor of psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, where he directs the Berkeley Social Interaction Lab. He’s also the founder and co-director of the Greater Good Science Center. Dr. Keltner is also the a

Dec 14, 2020 • 56:06

What We Learned from 2020

What We Learned from 2020

It’s been a long, strange, challenging year. As we get toward the end of it, and look forward to 2021, it feels appropriate to start by taking a look back and seeing what, if anything, we can learn from the year that’s gone by. Support the Podcast: We're on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Key Topics:2:30: The importance of internal resources.4:15: "It can happen to us too."6:00: Putting more effort into what’s local.8:30: Interdependence and interconnecti

Dec 7, 2020 • 52:05

Unlearning Unconscious Bias with Dr. Jack Glaser

Unlearning Unconscious Bias with Dr. Jack Glaser

We're all subject to forms of bias and prejudice. On this episode, Forrest and Rick are joined by Dr. Jack Glaser, an expert on intergroup bias and racial prejudice, to explore what we can do to overcome our innate tendencies. About the Guest: Dr. Jack Glaser is a Professor at the Goldman School of Public Policy at UC Berkeley. He studies intergroup biases and the unconscious operation of stereotypes and prejudice, and is particularly interested in racial profiling. Jack is also the aut

Nov 30, 2020 • 1:08:42

Meditation: Gratitude and Finding Pleasure

Meditation: Gratitude and Finding Pleasure

On today's short episode, Dr. Rick Hanson leads a guided meditation aimed at experiencing gratitude and finding the small pleasures in life. Support the Podcast: We're on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Connect with the show: Subscribe on iTunes Follow us on Instagram Follow Rick on Facebook Follow Forrest on Facebook Forrest's Website Sponsors:From Dr. Hanson: The Foundations of Well-Being brings together the lessons of a lifetime of practice into one ye

Nov 27, 2020 • 17:57

Sadness and Disappointment Around the Holidays

Sadness and Disappointment Around the Holidays

The holidays are coming up, and for many people they’re likely to be very different this year from usual. Experiencing sadness or disappointment around the holidays is normal even among the best circumstances, and we're far from those. On this episode, Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore how to work with this year's natural feelings of sadness and disappointment.Support the Podcast: We're on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Key Topics:4:50: A therapy session focused on

Nov 23, 2020 • 53:14

Learn Faster, Learn Smarter with Josh Kaufman

Learn Faster, Learn Smarter with Josh Kaufman

Learning is the single most important skill: if you know how to learn, you can get good at anything else. Today we're joined by Josh Kaufman, author of The Personal MBA, to explore the 20 hour rule, the problems with 10,000 hours, cognitive biases, and how you can learn anything more quickly.About our Guest: Josh is the author of three bestselling books: The Personal MBA, The First 20 Hours, and How to Fight a Hydra. The Personal MBA is a #1 international bestseller, and he's also respo

Nov 16, 2020 • 52:53

Relaxing Anxiety During Stressful Times

Relaxing Anxiety During Stressful Times

If you live in the United States – and probably for many people who don’t – it’s been a bit of a stressful week. Today Dr. Hanson and Forrest talk about relaxing anxiety, weathering the storm, and taking in the year as a whole. Support the Podcast: We're on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Key Topics:1:30: Where do we want to allocate our attention?5:00: Rational, appropriate stress and anxiety. 8:00: The cost of ‘negative’ emotions. 12:30: Practices of ca

Nov 9, 2020 • 51:16

10 Lessons for a Great Life, Part 2: Accepting Difference, Embracing Life, and Impermanence

10 Lessons for a Great Life, Part 2: Accepting Difference, Embracing Life, and Impermanence

In the second part of our 10 most essential lessons for a great life, we explore accepting difference, open heartedness, healthy skepticism, embracing life, and impermanence. Support the Podcast: We're on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Key Topics:2:30: Different people are different.10:00: Open your heart. 13:45: Open heartedness as a ‘field.’19:20: Cultivate a stance of healthy skepticism. 27:00: Honor the gift of your life. 33:00: All things end. 37:00

Nov 2, 2020 • 49:32

10 Lessons for a Great Life, Part 1: Respecting Childhood, Slowing Down, and Supporting Yourself

10 Lessons for a Great Life, Part 1: Respecting Childhood, Slowing Down, and Supporting Yourself

What are the most essential lessons we've ever learned? Today we're exploring the first half of our 10 most important practices, skills, techniques, and reflections for the long road of life. Today we cover getting on your own side, the impact of childhood, widening your view, slowing down, and taking in the good.A quick summary of Rick's approach to taking in the good.Support the Podcast: We're on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Key Topics:1:30: Introduc

Oct 26, 2020 • 45:45

How to Have Hard Conversations with Celeste Headlee

How to Have Hard Conversations with Celeste Headlee

About the Episode: Studies show that Americans feel less connected and more divided than ever before. Celeste Headlee, an award winning journalist, joins us to explore how we can navigate the many hard conversations that are happening these days. About our Guest: In her 20-year career in public radio, Celeste appeared on NPR, PRI, CNN, and the BBC. She has been the Executive Producer of On Second Thought for Georgia Public Broadcasting, and anchored shows including Tell Me More, Talk of

Oct 19, 2020 • 1:00:22

Staying Sane During Hard Times

Staying Sane During Hard Times

It’s one thing to use some of the tools that we talk about on this podcast when things feel stable and are going “good enough.” It’s another to apply them when the world feels threatening. Today we’re learning how to have more 'equanimity,' which is what allows us to maintain our composure, presence of mind, and perhaps even wellbeing under challenging circumstances.  Support the Podcast: We're on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Key Topics:1:30: How do we

Oct 12, 2020 • 47:15

Maximize Productivity with Mindfulness

Maximize Productivity with Mindfulness

How can we be more productive, and improve our ability to focus on the things we really care about, without it becoming a source of stress? Chris Bailey, who TED described as "possibly the most productive person you could ever meet," joins us to explore how to get your brain to focus. About our Guest: Chris is the bestselling author of Hyperfocus and The Productivity Project, and his website A Life of Productivity has a small army of devoted readers. Chris' wonderful TED talk, How to Ge

Oct 5, 2020 • 59:09

Children, Trauma, and Racism with Dr. Allison Briscoe-Smith

Children, Trauma, and Racism with Dr. Allison Briscoe-Smith

How have children experienced this year's challenges, and how can we get better at talking with them about race and racism?Today we’re focusing on trauma, resilience, and effective coping, and particularly on the unique challenges experienced by young people and their parents.About our Guest: Dr. Allison Briscoe-Smith is a child clinical psychologist who specializes in trauma and issues of race. She is a senior fellow of Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, and is both a professor an

Sep 28, 2020 • 58:14

Angry and Content

Angry and Content

How can we maintain contentment, calm, or inner peace, while still aiming high, pursuing good goals, and experiencing natural frustration and anger? And is contentment even a good goal when there's so much injustice out in the world?Rick's Course: If you'd like to learn how to change your brain for the better, check out Rick's Positive Neuroplasticity Training. It's a six-week online course that will teach you how to beat your brain's negativity bias, and have more confidence, compassio

Sep 21, 2020 • 50:04

Authentic Happiness with Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar

Authentic Happiness with Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar

How can we find happiness even when times are challenging? Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar joins us to explore authentic happiness, accepting difficult emotions, and giving yourself permission to be human. About our Guest: Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar is the bestselling author of six books, founder of the Happiness Studies Academy, and former professor of two of the largest courses in Harvard’s history. Learn more about his Certificate in Happiness Studies program here. Use the code HAPPY for a 10% discount.

Sep 14, 2020 • 52:33

How to Change Your Brain

How to Change Your Brain

Today, we're exploring the single most important skill we will ever teach on this podcast: How to change the brain in lasting ways.The dirty secret of the personal growth industry, and self-help and psychology more broadly, is that most of what we learn doesn't stick. So, what can we do to achieve the ‘holy grail’ of personal growth – lasting change in our hearts, minds, and behaviors? Rick's Course: If you'd like to learn more about how to change your brain for the better, check out Ri

Sep 7, 2020 • 57:34

Complex PTSD and Developmental Trauma with Pete Walker

Complex PTSD and Developmental Trauma with Pete Walker

What are the consequences of growing up inside an abusive family, and what can we do as adults to heal old wounds? Today we're joined by Pete Walker, a practicing therapist and expert in Complex PTSD.About Our Guest: Pete is a licensed psychotherapist practicing in the San Francisco Bay Area, who specializes in helping adults who were traumatized in childhood. He’s the author of three books, including Complex PTSD : From Surviving To Thriving. It’s a practical, user-friendly self-help g

Aug 31, 2020 • 55:54

Psychological Safety with Dr. Amy Edmondson

Psychological Safety with Dr. Amy Edmondson

What makes for a great team – whether personal or professional – and how can organizations and individuals create a more psychologically healthy environment? Many of us have been fortunate enough to be on a really great team…and most all of us have probably been on a bad one. So, what makes for a great team – whether personal or professional – and is it as simple as just being good at your job, or is there more to it than that? It turns out one of the key factors is called psychological

Aug 24, 2020 • 46:43

Real Change with Sharon Salzberg

Real Change with Sharon Salzberg

Sharon Salzberg, one of the most prominent teachers of mindfulness in the West, joins us to discuss how we can create real change in our hearts, minds, and lives. About our Guest: Sharon Salzberg is a central figure in the field of meditation, a world-renowned teacher and NY Times bestselling author. Her 11th book, Real Change: Mindfulness to Heal Ourselves and the World, comes out September 1st. She's also the host of the fantastic Metta Hour podcast. New Sponsor: Join over a million p

Aug 17, 2020 • 49:54

Key Skills for Great Relationships

Key Skills for Great Relationships

In part two of our conversation, we explore some of the key psychological skills that lead to a truly great relationship informed by 35 years of couples counseling experience. The Relationships Workshop: Join Rick for a live, online relationship workshop that will teach you how to have more fulfilling, effective, and joyful relationships than ever before. Follow the link to learn more, and podcast listeners can enter code BEWELL50 at checkout for $50 off the purchase price! Key Skills:3

Aug 10, 2020 • 58:12

How to Have Great Relationships: Attachment and the Self

How to Have Great Relationships: Attachment and the Self

We all want great relationships - ones that are fulfilling, loving, stable, and fun. This is the first of two episodes focused on becoming a 'great relater.' Today Dr. Hanson and Forrest focus on understanding our individual attachment style, and how we can work through our personal material. The Relationships Workshop: Join Rick for his online relationship workshop that will teach you how to have more fulfilling, effective, and joyful relationships than ever before. Follow the link to

Aug 3, 2020 • 51:21

The Pitfalls of Self-Help: Comparison and The Secret

The Pitfalls of Self-Help: Comparison and The Secret

In the second episode related to the pitfalls of self-help, we explore how individuals and environments can manipulate others by making them feel like something is wrong with them. This is a self-help podcast. And there's a lot to like about self-help! But it has it's issues as well. Today we're exploring our exploration of those issues by focusing on painful forms of comparison and the natural vs. supernatural frame.Key Topics:2:45: Being goal directed vs. self-acceptance. 6:50: Exploi

Jul 27, 2020 • 51:57

Polyvagal Theory with Dr. Stephen Porges

Polyvagal Theory with Dr. Stephen Porges

Dr. Stephen Porges joins Rick and Forrest to explore his Polyvagal Theory, which explains how we can use the systems of the body to completely change our relationship with stress. About Our Guest: Dr. Stephen Porges is a Distinguished University Scientist at Indiana University and Professor of Psychiatry at the University of North Carolina. In 1994 he proposed the Polyvagal Theory, a theory that links the evolution of the nervous system to social behavior and emphasizes the importance o

Jul 20, 2020 • 52:26

The Pitfalls of Self-Help: Forced Positivity

The Pitfalls of Self-Help: Forced Positivity

Do self-help environments force us into inauthentic happiness? And how can we move away from the false front, and into more authentic expression? This is the first of a series of episodes dedicated to some of the self-help community's pitfalls. This is a self-help podcast. And there's a lot to like about self-help! But it has it's issues as well. Today we're exploring one of them: toxic positivity and forced happiness.New Sponsor: Join over a million people using BetterHelp, the world’s

Jul 13, 2020 • 46:30

Start Now: Mid-Year Resolutions

Start Now: Mid-Year Resolutions

We're halfway through a very strange year, and it's a good time to take stock, check in with ourselves, and establish some new commitments – even if they’re as simple as being kind to ourselves. One way we can reclaim our experience of agency is by finding where we do still have influence over our outcomes. And that’s what we’ll be exploring today: how to start anew under the circumstances we find ourselves in. New Sponsor: Join over a million people using BetterHelp, the world’s larges

Jul 6, 2020 • 44:30

Can We Do No Harm?

Can We Do No Harm?

Is it possible to "do no harm," and should we even try? Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore what it means to do no harm, and the inner resources that allow us to do as little as possible.New Sponsor: Join over a million people using BetterHelp, the world’s largest online counseling platform. Visit betterhelp.com/beingwell for 10% off your first month! Key Topics:1:10: Reckoning and repenting in this moment. 4:45: What does it mean to truly do no harm?6:45: How does doing no harm help us “be

Jun 29, 2020 • 47:56

Unlearning Racist Conditioning with Erin Trent Johnson

Unlearning Racist Conditioning with Erin Trent Johnson

What can we do to combat, unlearn, and ultimately unburden ourselves from the influence of systemic structures of racism - both out in the world and inside of ourselves?About Our Guest: Erin is the CEO, principal coach, and founder of Community Equity Partners, and the senior advisor at the Equity Lab. Erin works with educational, non-profit, government, and tech organizations that are committed to creating equitable and inclusive practices. Key Topics:1:10: Finding hope and awakening i

Jun 22, 2020 • 29:06

Healing Our History with Dr. Sherri Taylor

Healing Our History with Dr. Sherri Taylor

What is intergenerational trauma, how does it influence our lives today, and what can we do to heal and persevere when things get tough?The events of the past few weeks have cast the importance of healing the wounds of the past into stark relief. Today we’re exploring how the traumatic past, including that handed down through the generations, can influence our lives today. About Our Guest: Dr. Sherri Taylor is an assistant professor of somatic psychology at the California Institute of I

Jun 15, 2020 • 39:31

Institutional Racism and Traumatic Stress with Dr. Alfiee

Institutional Racism and Traumatic Stress with Dr. Alfiee

Racism and racist structures place an enormous mental health burden on the people they persecute. Dr. Alfiee joins me to discuss the mental health consequences of institutional racism, unique challenges faced by marginalized youth, disparities in access to mental health services, and the importance of "naming and claiming." About Our Guest: Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble is a licensed psychologist who spent 20 years in academic medicine. She's the lead author of The Handbook of Mental Health

Jun 8, 2020 • 44:10

We Should Be Uncomfortable

We Should Be Uncomfortable

It's our turn to be uncomfortable. https://blacklivesmatters.carrd.coRacism is a public health crisis. Ways You Can HelpDonate to:  ACT Blue fundraiser GoFundMe’s justice and equality fund George Floyd Breonna Taylor Ahmaud Aubery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 5, 2020 • 10:07

Living and Dying Well with Frank Ostaseski

Living and Dying Well with Frank Ostaseski

What can death teach us about living well? A pioneer in the field of end-of-life care joins us to explore the fear of death, anger, true courage, and acceptance in the face of it all. About our Guest: Frank is an internationally respected Buddhist teacher and advocate for compassionate care-giving. In 1987, he co-founded the Zen Hospice Project, which helped establish a longstanding model for mindful and compassionate care. In 2005, he founded the Metta Institute.Frank is also the autho

Jun 1, 2020 • 58:50

Transcending the Self with Dr. David Yaden

Transcending the Self with Dr. David Yaden

What does it mean to "transcend the self?" Today Dr. Hanson, Forrest, and Dr. David Yaden explore self-transcendent, or “peak,” experiences, which the famous psychologist Abraham Maslow defined as “moments of highest happiness and fulfillment.”As a note, David is referred to as a "PhD student" during the episode. Since it was recorded, he's gone on to earn his doctorate!About our Guest: David is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Johns Hopkins Medicine who studies the varieties of spirit

May 25, 2020 • 48:50

The Science of Well-Being with Laurie Santos

The Science of Well-Being with Laurie Santos

Dr. Laurie Santos joins the podcast to share what the science says about how we can maintain our well-being during this difficult time.About our Guest: Laurie is a Professor of Psychology and Head of Silliman College at Yale University. Her course “Psychology and the Good Life” is the most popular class in the university’s history. It’s now available for free online as “The Science of Well-Being." She’s also the director of the Comparative Cognition Laboratory at Yale, which explores th

May 18, 2020 • 55:40

COVID and Releasing Obsessive Fear

COVID and Releasing Obsessive Fear

Can we work with, and release, obsessive fear during this particularly anxiety-provoking time? Dr. Dan Kalb, an expert on anxiety disorders and OCD, joins the show to help us learn how. About our Guest:  Anxiety and worry are a part of life. But when they disrupt the normal flow of life, work and school are harder, family and social relationships suffer, and life is not as enjoyable. Dr. Kalb has been a practicing psychologist for over 25 years, and focuses much of his practice on worki

May 11, 2020 • 46:22

Creativity and the Enneagram with Sleeping at Last

Creativity and the Enneagram with Sleeping at Last

What can we learn about ourselves from and through art? Sleeping At Last, an incredible musician, joins us to explore the Enneagram, the creative process, art and emotion, and how we can become ever more true to ourselves.About Our Guest: Sleeping at Last, also known as Ryan O’Neal,  is a well-known singer, songwriter, and composer who's written music for shows like Grey's Anatomy.  Over the last seven years Ryan has worked on his Atlas series, an ongoing project that includes an incredible seri

May 4, 2020 • 54:51

The Highest Happiness

The Highest Happiness

What is the "highest happiness," and what can we do to achieve it? This is the second conversation with Dr. Hanson related to his new book Neurodharma: New Science, Ancient Wisdom, and Seven Practices of the Highest Happiness. Today we're focusing on the final four practices in the book: wholeness, nowness, allness, and timelessness. Neurodharma is now available! Click here if you'd like to learn more.New Sponsor: Join over a million people using BetterHelp, the world’s largest online c

Apr 27, 2020 • 48:03

Neurodharma

Neurodharma

Throughout history people have sought the heights of human potential - to become as wise, strong, happy, and loving as any person can ever be. Call these peak experiences, sense of oneness, or enlightenment itself. And now, science is revealing how these remarkable ways of being seem to be based on equally remarkable changes in our own nervous system.What do those individuals have in common, how did they reach that summit, and what can we learn from them? That's the subject of Rick's ne

Apr 20, 2020 • 48:21

A Meditation for the Helpers

A Meditation for the Helpers

I want to express the profound gratitude I feel toward everyone who is serving others during this time of the Coronavirus pandemic. In particular, healthcare providers, first responders, and the whole ecosystem of helpers who have come together to support us all.I've received a number of truly humbling requests to offer a guided practice aimed at supporting the inner strengths those providers need so desperately these days. This meditation focuses on cultivating a feeling of both accept

Apr 17, 2020 • 18:43

Overcoming Compassion Fatigue

Overcoming Compassion Fatigue

How can we continue to support others when our own well has run dry? Today we're exploring practices for managing and overcoming both direct traumatic stress and compassion fatigue, or "secondary traumatic stress." New Sponsor: Join over a million people using BetterHelp, the world’s largest online counseling platform. Visit betterhelp.com/beingwell for 10% off your first month! Key Topics:3:00: The anxiety, outrage, and overwhelm of this moment.7:00: Finding refuge. 12:00: Refuge and p

Apr 13, 2020 • 32:47

Coping with Quarantine

Coping with Quarantine

Over the last month many people have been stuck at home - occasionally with people they'd rather not be around. Maintaining a healthy relationship can be a struggle under the best of times, let alone during times of stress. On this episode we explore how individuals and families can deal with the interpersonal stress that comes from being stuck together, and the sadness and loss that comes from being separated from things we love.New Sponsor: Join over a million people using BetterHelp,

Apr 6, 2020 • 37:04

Become a Better Friend to Yourself

Become a Better Friend to Yourself

It's often easier to be a good friend to others than to ourselves. Today we're exploring how to balance constructive and harmful self-criticism, move away from our "act," embrace change, manage feelings of worthlessness, and ultimately be a good friend to ourselves.New Sponsor: Join over a million people using BetterHelp, the world’s largest online counseling platform. Visit betterhelp.com/beingwell for 10% off your first month! Key Topics:3:15: A few ways to be kind to yourself.8:15: F

Mar 30, 2020 • 54:24

The Gift of Presence

The Gift of Presence

How can we use mindfulness practically during our everyday lives, and how can "presence" be a particularly valuable tool for women?About Our Guest: Caroline Welch is the CEO and co-founder of the Mindsight Institute. Mindsight, a term coined by Dr. Dan Siegel, is our human capacity to perceive the mind of the self and others. It’s essentially a kind of focused attention that help us observe the working of our own mind, and helps get us off of the autopilot of ingrained behaviors and hab

Mar 23, 2020 • 35:37

Fear in the Time of Coronavirus

Fear in the Time of Coronavirus

We haven’t generally done episodes related to current events, but these events are challenging to ignore. The coronavirus pandemic has already placed a heavy toll on society – over a hundred thousand people have already been sick, thousands are dead, businesses, schools, and recreational events have closed, and there's been substantial economic turmoil.Today we’re exploring how to cope with the natural fears that arise during challenging times, the difference between useful and harmful

Mar 16, 2020 • 47:56

Healing Trauma with Dr. Peter Levine

Healing Trauma with Dr. Peter Levine

Dr. Peter Levine, a legendary expert on the subject of healing trauma, joins Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest to discuss the power trauma holds over the body, how we can truly connect with others, and simple practices for calming fear and unwinding from trauma. Dr. Levine has worked in the field of stress and trauma for over 40 years and is the creator of Somatic Experiencing. He is also the author of the best-selling, classic book on trauma Waking the Tiger. He’s authored and co-authored se

Mar 9, 2020 • 45:48

Childhood Trauma with Dr. Bruce Perry

Childhood Trauma with Dr. Bruce Perry

Dr. Bruce Perry joins Dr. Hanson and Forrest to discuss the incredible impact of childhood experiences, the fuzzy distinction between trauma and stress, and what we can do to heal from those experiences. As with all of our episodes dealing with trauma and traumatic experiences, please approach this material with care for yourself in mind. There are specific descriptions during the episode of neglect and abuse, including that perpetrated upon children.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreo

Mar 2, 2020 • 47:51

Facing Challenging Experiences

Facing Challenging Experiences

How can we better resource ourselves to face the challenging, even traumatic, experiences that lie in our past?New Sponsor: Join over a million people using BetterHelp, the world’s largest online counseling platform. Visit betterhelp.com/beingwell for 10% off your first month! Key Topics:03:45: The necessity of eventually contacting trauma material in order to heal.06:50: Challenges, resources, and vulnerabilities. 11:20: Key resources for facing challenging experiences. 16:15: Courage

Feb 24, 2020 • 43:16

How to Build Habits with Charles Duhigg

How to Build Habits with Charles Duhigg

We all want to build good habits, but doing so is often easier said than done. Charles Duhigg joins the podcast to help us learn how to do just that.About Our Guest: Charles is the author of The Power of Habit, a classic bestseller about the science of habit formation in our lives, companies and societies, and Smarter Faster Better, which focuses on the science of productivity. He was a reporter at the New York Times for a decade, where he was part of a team that won a  Pulitzer prize f

Feb 17, 2020 • 33:44

Becoming Friendly and Fearless in Relationships

Becoming Friendly and Fearless in Relationships

In our important relationships at home and at work, we need to respect the needs of others while also sticking up for our own. Dr. Daniel Ellenberg joins us today to explore how we can grow the lasting inner resources that allow us to do just that, and ultimately become both “friendly” and “fearless.”About Our Guest: Daniel has been a practicing marriage and family therapist for over 30 years, and is the co-founder of Relationships That Work, and the founder and director of Strength Wit

Feb 10, 2020 • 49:06

Working with Grief with Dr. Joanne Cacciatore

Working with Grief with Dr. Joanne Cacciatore

There are some emotions that are so deeply tied to the human experience that it’s impossible to avoid them. One of these is grief, which we have yet to discuss in detail on the podcast. On this episode we’re changing that, and have the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Joanne Cacciatore to the podcast to explore how we can bear the unbearable, and heal the trauma associated with grief.As with all of our episodes associated with traumatic experiences, please be kind to yourself. Be aware that th

Feb 3, 2020 • 45:50

Just One Thing: 5% More

Just One Thing: 5% More

On this short episode, Dr. Shauna Shapiro shares the most important thing she does, each day, for her own well-being.  Shauna's newest book Good Morning, I Love You: Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Practices to Rewire Your Brain for Calm, Clarity, and Joy is now available.If you'd like to continue to receive these Just One Thing episodes, you can now support the podcast on Patreon! Follow the link to learn more and sign up. From Dr. Hanson: The Foundations of Well-Being brings together

Jan 31, 2020 • 3:34

Growing Compassion And Mindfulness

Growing Compassion And Mindfulness

Dr. Shauna Shapiro, clinical psychologist, author and internationally recognized expert in mindfulness and self-compassion, joins Rick to discuss how we can grow and include compassion alongside mindfulness.About Our Guest: Dr. Shapiro is a professor at Santa Clara University and has published over 150 papers and three critically acclaimed books, translated into 16 languages. Her TEDx Talk, The Power of Mindfulness, has been viewed over a million times.Her newest book Good Morning, I Lo

Jan 27, 2020 • 47:11

Just One Thing: Set Your Intention

Just One Thing: Set Your Intention

Sometimes it's nice to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode Dr. Kelly McGonigal shares the most important thing she does, each day, for her own well-being.From Dr. Hanson: The Foundations of Well-Being brings together the lessons of a lifetime of practice into one year-long online program. Podcast listeners can use the code BEINGWELL25 at checkout for an additional 25% off! Please don't hesitate to apply for a

Jan 24, 2020 • 2:55

The Joy of Movement with Dr. Kelly McGonigal

The Joy of Movement with Dr. Kelly McGonigal

We all know that exercise is good for us, but that doesn't always make it easy to do. Dr. Kelly McGonigal joins Dr. Hanson and Forrest to share some of the surprising benefits of activity, and how to find ease and joy in movement.About Our Guest: Dr. McGonigal is a health psychologist, lecturer at Stanford University, and award-winning science writer.  She is the author of several wonderful books, including the international bestseller The Willpower Instinct, The Upside of Stress, and h

Jan 20, 2020 • 49:53

Just One Thing: Love Yourself

Just One Thing: Love Yourself

Sometimes it's nice to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode Jack Kornfield shares the most important thing he does, each day, for his own well-being.Sign-up for Just One Thing from Dr. Rick Hanson here, and receive more simple practices for greater well-being.Connect with the show:Visit us on the webFollow us on InstagramFollow Rick on FacebookFollow Forrest on FacebookSubscribe on iTunesFrom Dr. Hanson: The Foundations

Jan 17, 2020 • 2:39

Jack Kornfield on Mindful Awareness

Jack Kornfield on Mindful Awareness

Jack Kornfield, one of the key teachers who introduced Buddhist mindfulness practice to the West, joins Rick and Forrest to discuss practice, mindful awareness, and how to view reality altogether.Jack is the co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society in Massachusetts, and the Spirit Rock Center in Woodacre, California. His books have been translated into 20 languages and sold more than a million copies. His most recent book is No Time Like the Present: Finding Freedom, Love, and Joy R

Jan 13, 2020 • 58:17

Just One Thing: Don't Leave Yourself Out

Just One Thing: Don't Leave Yourself Out

Sometimes it's nice to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode Dr. Tina Bryson shares the most important thing she does, each day, for her own well-being.From Dr. Hanson: The Foundations of Well-Being brings together the lessons of a lifetime of practice into one year-long online program. Podcast listeners can use the code BEINGWELL25 at checkout for an additional 25% off! Please don't hesitate to apply for a scho

Jan 10, 2020 • 3:25

The Power of Showing Up with Dr. Tina Bryson

The Power of Showing Up with Dr. Tina Bryson

Dr. Tina Payne Bryson joins Dr. Hanson and Forrest to share how we can become better friends, parents, and people. About our Guest: Dr. Bryson is the bestselling author of The Whole Brain Child, No-Drama Discipline, and The Yes Brain. She’s also the co-author of a new book The Power of Showing Up: How Parental Presence Shapes Who Our Kids Become and How Their Brains Get Wired with Dr. Daniel Siegel.Tina's website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedInFrom Dr. Hanson: The Foundations of Well

Jan 6, 2020 • 56:23

A Year of Well-Being

A Year of Well-Being

On the final episode of 2019, Forrest and Dr. Hanson discuss their favorite episodes from the last year, what they've learned, and their resolutions for 2020.From Dr. Hanson: The Foundations of Well-Being brings together the lessons of a lifetime of practice into one year-long online program. Podcast listeners can use the code BEINGWELL25 at checkout for an additional 25% off! Please don't hesitate to apply for a scholarship if you're in need. If you’d like to learn more about the Found

Dec 30, 2019 • 44:26

Recovering from a Relationship with a Narcissist

Recovering from a Relationship with a Narcissist

Emotionally abusive relationships are sadly very common. Today Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore a subset of those relationships with Dr. Rhonda Freeman, who shares her own journey to recovery from a toxic relationship with a malignant narcissist.Dr. Freeman is a clinical neuropsychologist. She works with patients diagnosed with neurological conditions, and focuses much of her work on helping people who were involved in toxic or abusive relationships. She is also the founder of Neuroinstincts, and

Dec 23, 2019 • 47:04

Just One Thing: Accept What Is

Just One Thing: Accept What Is

Dr. Alex Korb shares the most important thing he does, each day, for his own well-being.Sign-up for Just One Thing from Dr. Rick Hanson here, and receive more simple practices for greater well-being.Sponsor Offer: For over 35 years, Dr. Rick Hanson has taught thousands of people how to feel less stressed, have more fulfilling relationships, and find a deep sense of self-worth. He's now sharing the lessons of a lifetime in one step-by-step, down-to-earth online program: The Foundations o

Dec 20, 2019 • 4:57

Depression and the Brain

Depression and the Brain

Dr. Alex Korb joins the podcast to explore the relationship between depression and the brain, including practical tools for intervening during a depressive episode.Dr. Korb is the author of The Upward Spiral: Using Neuroscience to Reverse the Course of Depression, One Small Change at a Time. He’s studied the brain for over 15 years, and later earned his Ph.D. in neuroscience from UCLA. He’s also published over a dozen peer-reviewed journal articles on depression, neuromodulation and other topics

Dec 16, 2019 • 40:54

Just One Thing: Check Your Assumptions

Just One Thing: Check Your Assumptions

Liz Fosslien shares the most important thing she does, each day, for her own well-being.Sign-up for Just One Thing from Dr. Rick Hanson here, and receive more simple practices for greater well-being.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Connect with the show: Visit

Dec 13, 2019 • 8:02

How to Deal with Emotions in the Workplace with Liz Fosslien

How to Deal with Emotions in the Workplace with Liz Fosslien

The modern workplace can be an emotional minefield. For most of us, about a third of our lives will be spent at work. Learning how to work with and manage our internal lives, including our emotions, in that setting is a huge part of becoming a happy, healthy, emotional intelligent human.On this episode Forrest is joined by the Wall Street Journal best-selling co-author and illustrator of No Hard Feelings: The Secret Power of Embracing Emotions at Work, Liz Fosslien. Liz is also the Head

Dec 9, 2019 • 52:18

Just One Thing: Care Fully

Just One Thing: Care Fully

Sometimes it's nice to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode, Marc Lesser, Forrest, and Dr. Rick Hanson share the most important things they do, each day, for their own well-being.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for

Dec 6, 2019 • 6:47

Bringing Mindfulness into the Workplace

Bringing Mindfulness into the Workplace

There’s a natural tendency to view different elements of our lives as being unique and distinct from one another: what we do at home, or what we do as part of our personal growth journey, is somehow fundamentally different from what we do at work. So what can we do, both as individuals and a collective, to bring those same mindful traits into the workplace?That's the question we explore today with Marc Lesser, founding CEO of the Search Inside Yourself Leadership Institute.Sponsor Offer

Dec 2, 2019 • 36:52

How to Get the Most Out of Therapy

How to Get the Most Out of Therapy

Dr. Hanson and Forrest continue their conversation on therapy with a discussion ranging from how to pay for it to getting the most out of what happens in the room.As a practicing clinician for over 30 years, Rick's had a lot of people wander through his office. Some of them grew more from the experience than others, and there were some common traits - both on their side and on mine - that tended to lead to the process being particularly beneficial...or particularly not. Today we’re expl

Nov 25, 2019 • 49:22

How to Start Therapy

How to Start Therapy

This is the first of two episodes dedicated to a topic near and dear to Dr. Hanson's heart: therapy. Today we're exploring how to start therapy, including different therapy modalities and how to approach seeking out a therapist to work with.Of course, therapy can be profoundly helpful for acute issues – for instance, the tendencies a person might have related to our series on pathology. But what gets lost sometimes in our general social conversation around therapy is how useful it can b

Nov 18, 2019 • 48:21

Just One Thing: Live With Intention

Just One Thing: Live With Intention

On this short episode, Lori Gottlieb shares the most important thing she does, each day, for her own well being. Lori Gottlieb is a New York Times bestselling author, nationally recognized journalist, and weekly “Dear Therapist” columnist for The Atlantic. Her new book Maybe You Should Talk to Someone: A Therapist, Her Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed has rapidly become one of my favorites.Sign-up for Just One Thing from Dr. Rick Hanson here, and receive more simple practices for great

Nov 15, 2019 • 3:06

Embracing Therapy with Lori Gottlieb

Embracing Therapy with Lori Gottlieb

Psychotherapist and New York Times bestselling author Lori Gottlieb joins the show to explore the therapeutic process, the gifts and challenges of being a therapist in therapy, and why you should consider talking to someone.Lori Gottlieb is a New York Times bestselling author, nationally recognized journalist, and weekly “Dear Therapist” columnist for The Atlantic. Her new book Maybe You Should Talk to Someone: A Therapist, Her Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed has rapidly become one of my favor

Nov 11, 2019 • 37:58

Just One Thing: Choose Again

Just One Thing: Choose Again

Gabrielle Bernstein shares the most important thing she does, each day, for her own well being. Gabby is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of seven books including her newest: Super Attractor: Methods for Manifesting a Life beyond Your Wildest Dreams. She’s been named a “new thought leader” by Oprah on her show SuperSoul Sunday, and been featured on a wide variety of media outlets, including ELLE and The Today Show.Super Attractor is a journey of remembering where your true power

Nov 8, 2019 • 2:24

Gabrielle Bernstein on Anxiety, Outrage, and Claiming Your Purpose

Gabrielle Bernstein on Anxiety, Outrage, and Claiming Your Purpose

Gabrielle Bernstein joins the show to discuss the fear that stops us from being who we truly are, anxiety and moral outrage, and how to become a Super Attractor.Gabby is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of seven books including The Universe Has Your Back, Spirit Junky, and her newest book Super Attractor: Methods for Manifesting a Life beyond Your Wildest Dreams. She’s been named a “new thought leader” by Oprah on her show SuperSoul Sunday, and been featured on a wide variety of

Nov 4, 2019 • 50:07

Relating to Trauma with Dr. James Gordon

Relating to Trauma with Dr. James Gordon

In the second part of our conversation with Dr. James Gordon, we focus on caregiver fatigue, helplessness, and unwinding from trauma at the collective level.Dr. Gordon is founder and executive director of the nonprofit Center for Mind-Body Medicine. For more than 25 years. His latest book, The Transformation: Discovering Wholeness and Healing After Trauma, guides us step by step in a comprehensive evidence-based program to reverse the psychological and biological damage that trauma caus

Oct 31, 2019 • 25:18

Recovering From Trauma with Dr. James Gordon

Recovering From Trauma with Dr. James Gordon

Most people will experience some form of trauma during their lives. Today we explore what we can do to recover from those experiences with a world-class expert on the subject: Dr. James Gordon.Dr. Gordon is a Harvard-educated psychiatrist, and internationally recognized expert on using self-awareness, self-care, and group support to heal population-wide psychological trauma. He is founder and executive director of the nonprofit Center for Mind-Body Medicine.His latest book, The Transfor

Oct 28, 2019 • 31:15

Nurturing a Lonely Heart

Nurturing a Lonely Heart

In part two of Dr. Hanson and Forrest's conversation on Loneliness, they move on to the practical question of what we can do in our lives to overcome experiences of loneliness, and deepen our connection with other people.This is covered by Rick’s “three point plan” for loneliness, which includes: Taking action Cultivating compassion in ourselves Internalizing readily available social supplies Sponsor Offer: For over 35 years, Dr. Rick Hanson has taught thousands of people how to feel le

Oct 21, 2019 • 33:54

Just One Thing: Scan Your Body

Just One Thing: Scan Your Body

Sometimes it's nice to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode, Vidyamala Burch shares the most important thing she does, each day, for her own well-being.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price

Oct 18, 2019 • 2:55

A Way to Manage Chronic Pain

A Way to Manage Chronic Pain

Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest speak with Vidyamala Burch, co-founder of Breathworks, which offers mindfulness-based approaches to living well with chronic pain, illness or stress. The organization grew out of her own experience with chronic pain as a partial paraplegic, and adapts principles from Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy.Click here if you'd like to give to the Breathworks Foundation, the charitable wing of Breathworks.If you'd like to star

Oct 14, 2019 • 44:08

Understanding Your Developmental Story

Understanding Your Developmental Story

On this short episode, Forrest shares his personal journey with loneliness as a young person - and the importance of developing a coherent developmental narrative. We've spent many episodes on this podcast discussing the importance of childhood experiences. We may understand this in a general sense, but things can get a lot trickier when it comes time to put our own story together. Part of the process of becoming a mentally healthy person is creating a coherent narrative about how we be

Oct 11, 2019 • 9:34

Never Alone, Still Lonely

Never Alone, Still Lonely

Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore how we can be surrounded by other people, and still feel alone. They cover the genetic and developmental roots of loneliness, and how loneliness can creep into even our most connected, important relationships.During our ongoing series on “Who Am I,” we’ve explored psychological conditions of various kinds – many of which are stigmatized and pathologized. You can find them in the DSM - the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, which is the

Oct 7, 2019 • 33:54

Just One Thing: Live the Life You Love

Just One Thing: Live the Life You Love

Sometimes it's nice to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode, Dr. Jennie Rosier shares the most important thing she does, each day, for her own well-being.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase pri

Oct 3, 2019 • 2:22

Discovering Your Attachment Style

Discovering Your Attachment Style

Attachment theory is one of the most influential frameworks in psychology for understanding how people behave in their relationships with others. In this episode, Forrest and Dr. Jennie Rosier explore what attachment theory is, how we can identify our attachment style, and what we can do to build a healthier relationship with our own style and that of others.Dr. Jennie Rosier is an Associate Professor of Communication Studies at James Madison University, the director of The Relationship

Sep 30, 2019 • 50:45

Stop Sabotaging Yourself with Dr. Judy Ho

Stop Sabotaging Yourself with Dr. Judy Ho

We all have something we KNOW we should do...but that doesn't mean we actually do it. On this episode Dr. Hanson, Forrest, and Dr. Judy Ho explore the roots of self-sabotage, the four key elements that fuel self-sabotaging behavior, and how we can use tools from cognitive therapy to overcome those behaviors.Dr. Judy Ho is a clinical and forensic neuropsychologist, and is Associate Professor of Psychology at Pepperdine University's Graduate School of Education and Psychology. She’s appea

Sep 23, 2019 • 56:25

Managing Bipolar Disorder

Managing Bipolar Disorder

Today we're continuing our focus on bipolar disorder by exploring some tools and strategies that people can use to help manage their symptoms, or help loved ones do the same.As with all of the episodes in this series, please remember that bipolar disorder is best diagnosed by a licensed professional.Here's the Daylio app that was mentioned during this episode.Key Topics:00:43: Is bipolar disorder considered curable?05:16: How can someone begin managing their bipolar symptoms?06:49: Is it possibl

Sep 16, 2019 • 29:40

Just One Thing: Move, Meditate, and Appreciate Life

Just One Thing: Move, Meditate, and Appreciate Life

Sometimes it's nice to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode, Marie Forleo shares the most important things she does, each day, for her own well-being.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.S

Sep 13, 2019 • 4:18

Everything is Figureoutable with Marie Forleo

Everything is Figureoutable with Marie Forleo

Today we had the pleasure of speaking with Marie Forleo, named by Oprah as a thought leader for the next generation. She’s the star of MarieTV and host of The Marie Forleo Podcast, and has spent time with a who’s who of thought-leaders and personal development experts, including Tony Robbins, Richard Branson, and Brene Brown.On this episode Forrest, Dr. Rick Hanson, and Marie explore how we can build a "figureoutable" mindset that allows us to meet our challenges from a place of determi

Sep 10, 2019 • 27:38

Understanding Bipolar Disorder

Understanding Bipolar Disorder

Dr. Hanson and Forrest continue their ongoing series on “Who Am I” by focusing on a subset of the depressed mood states which we covered in our last episode in this series: bipolar disorder, formerly known as “manic depressive.”Depression and depressed mood are major problems for many people, and the material we’re going to get into today will be sensitive in nature. If things start to feel uncomfortable, feel free to skip around or turn it off altogether. As with all of the episodes in

Sep 2, 2019 • 35:08

Just One Thing: Care Less About What Others Think

Just One Thing: Care Less About What Others Think

Sometimes it's nice to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode, Dr. Ramani shares the most important thing she does, each day, for her own well-being.Sign-up for Just One Thing from Dr. Rick Hanson here, and receive more simple practices for greater well-being.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson'

Aug 29, 2019 • 2:19

How to Deal with a Narcissist with Ramani Durvasula

How to Deal with a Narcissist with Ramani Durvasula

Today we have the pleasure of speaking with a true expert on many of the topics we’ve exploring during our series on “Who Am I?”, including borderline personality disorder, sociopathy, and narcissism: Dr. Ramani Durvasula.Dr. Ramani is a licensed clinical psychologist, author, and expert on the impact of toxic narcissism. She is a Professor of Psychology at California State University, Los Angeles, and also a Visiting Professor at the University of Johannesburg.She is the author of Should I Stay

Aug 26, 2019 • 44:11

Overcoming Depression: Causes, Interventions, Mindfulness, and Depressed Mood

Overcoming Depression: Causes, Interventions, Mindfulness, and Depressed Mood

Dr. Hanson and Forrest continue their exploration of depression and depressed mood with an episode focused on some of the tactics and strategies people can use, both in their own mind and out in the world, to help manage, and even overcome, a depressed mood.Depression and depressed mood are major problems for many people, and the material we’re going to get into today will be sensitive in nature. If this is sensitive territory for you, please be kind to yourself. Feel free to skip aroun

Aug 19, 2019 • 47:39

Understanding Depression: Symptoms, Sources, and Sadness

Understanding Depression: Symptoms, Sources, and Sadness

Today we’re continuing our ongoing series on “Who Am I” by focusing on a huge topic: depressed mood, including clinical depression. Today's episode is the first of two parts, and explores what depression is, where it comes from, and how it differs from sadness.Depression and depressed mood are major problems for many people, and the material we’re going to get into today will be sensitive in nature. If this is sensitive territory for you, please be kind to yourself. Feel free to skip ar

Aug 13, 2019 • 41:14

Just One Thing: Cherish Others

Just One Thing: Cherish Others

Sometimes it's nice to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode, Roshi Joan Halifax shares the most important thing she does, each day, for her own well-being.Purchase Roshi Joan's most recent book Standing at the Edge: Finding Freedom Where Fear and Courage Meet here.We’d also like to let people know about the Upaya Institute’s general fund, which allows Upaya to provide a wide array of workshops, trainings, and r

Aug 8, 2019 • 2:42

On Death and Dying with Roshi Joan Halifax

On Death and Dying with Roshi Joan Halifax

Though there is no more human experience than death, it’s one of the most challenging topics to explore. Today we have the pleasure and privilege of learning from a true pioneer in the field of end-of-life care: Roshi Joan Halifax.As you may know, “roshi” is a title for the honored teacher of a Zen Buddhist community. Roshi Joan is a Buddhist teacher, Zen priest, and doctor of medical anthropology. She is Founder, Abbot, and Head Teacher of Upaya Institute and Zen Center in Santa Fe, Ne

Aug 5, 2019 • 32:55

Mailbag: Overcoming Self-Criticism

Mailbag: Overcoming Self-Criticism

Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore questions from listeners related to managing our relationship with ourselves, and particularly our tendency toward self-criticism.If you’d like to submit a question to be answered during a future mailbag, use the form on this page.If you would like to learn more about Dr. Hanson's new online program Neurodharma, follow this link! Use the code BEINGWELL for 10% off the purchase price.Timestamps:01:05: What is the most productive way to deal with a life-changing diag

Jul 29, 2019 • 35:22

Just One Thing: Welcoming

Just One Thing: Welcoming

Sometimes it's nice to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode, professor Gaylon Ferguson shares the most important thing he does, each day, for his own happiness. Sign-up for Just One Thing from Dr. Rick Hanson here, and receive more simple practices for greater well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 25, 2019 • 3:26

Fear and Fearlessness

Fear and Fearlessness

Today we explore the rich topics of fear and fearlessness with professor Gaylon Ferguson.Professor Ferguson is a member of the faculty at Naropa University in Bolder, Colorado. He is a graduate of Exeter and Yale, and holds a doctorate in cultural anthropology from Stanford. He’s also a senior teacher in the Shambhala Buddhist lineage, and has been a teacher in residence at the San Francisco Zen Center and Spirit Rock Meditation Center in California.He is also the author of two books: N

Jul 22, 2019 • 37:53

Mailbag: Helping Challenging Family Members

Mailbag: Helping Challenging Family Members

On today's mailbag episode we answer two questions related to our series on "Who Am I," with a general focus on helping people learn how to better manage their relationships with challenging family members.If you’d like to submit a question to be answered during a future mailbag, use the form on this page.If you would like to learn more about Dr. Hanson's new online program Neurodharma, follow this link! Use the code BEINGWELL for 10% off the purchase price.Timestamps:00:59: How can we

Jul 15, 2019 • 32:21

Just One Thing: Love Your Life

Just One Thing: Love Your Life

We are so busy these days that it’s great to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode, Adam Markel shares the most important thing he does, each day, for his own happiness. Sign-up for Just One Thing from Dr. Rick Hanson here, and receive more simple practices for greater well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 11, 2019 • 2:45

Finding Your Pivot with Adam Markel

Finding Your Pivot with Adam Markel

It's easy to "go with the flow" during our often busy lives. When things are going well this is great, but when our lives are less satisfying inertia can be a powerful enemy. To get out of a rut, we need to learn how to "pivot" in order to make the big changes that can point us in the right direction.If you feel that it might be time for a change, this is the episode for you.Our gust today is Adam Markel. Adam is the author of Pivot: The Art and Science of Reinventing Your Career and Li

Jul 8, 2019 • 36:49

Managing Borderline Personality Disorder

Managing Borderline Personality Disorder

We all have good days and bad days. Our mood naturally trends up and down in response to the events of our constantly changing worlds.But some people change more frequently, and are hit harder by change than others. On today’s episode, Dr. Hanson and Forrest continue their series on “Who Am I” by exploring at a particularly intense, and surprisingly common, version of this: Borderline Personality Disorder.Today's episode is a bit longer and more technical than normal. I hope you stick w

Jul 1, 2019 • 53:35

Just One Thing: Sonja Lyubomirsky

Just One Thing: Sonja Lyubomirsky

We are so busy these days that it’s great to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode, Dr. Lyubomirsky shares the most important thing she does, each day, for her own happiness. Sign-up for Just One Thing from Dr. Rick Hanson here, and receive more simple practices for greater well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 27, 2019 • 3:25

The How of Happiness with Sonja Lyubomirsky

The How of Happiness with Sonja Lyubomirsky

To summarize and simplify a little bit, one of the major focuses of this podcast is the “how” of happiness – what we can actually do in our lives, practically speaking, to increase our natural foundation of happiness and well-being. There’s endless advice out there about how to become happier, but most of it is anecdotal in nature. That’s why we're so happy to be being joined today by one of the leading researchers on the scientific study of human happiness: Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky. If yo

Jun 24, 2019 • 26:32

How to Deal with a Sociopath

How to Deal with a Sociopath

Today we’re going to continue our series on “Who Am I” by looking at one of the most well-known personality disorders: sociopathy. We’ll explore what it is, where it comes from, and what we can do to interact more skillfully with people who possess it.We also spend a little time investigating how we can work with our own tendencies in that direction if we happen to possess them.If you would like to learn more about Dr. Hanson's new online program Neurodharma, follow this link! Use the c

Jun 17, 2019 • 42:49

101st Episode Special

101st Episode Special

We made it to episode 101! On today's special episode, Forrest talks with Dr. Rick Hanson about his personal journey.If you would like to learn more about Dr. Hanson's new online program Neurodharma, follow this link! Use the code BEINGWELL for 10% off the purchase price.Timestamps:01:30: What inspired you to become a psychologist?05:34: What was it like to live through the hight of the human potential movement?13:13: The influence of contemplative practice.17:12: Becoming an author, an

Jun 11, 2019 • 42:18

Just One Thing: Emotional Intelligence

Just One Thing: Emotional Intelligence

We are so busy these days that it’s great to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode, Dr. Daniel Goleman and Michele Nevarez share the most important thing they do, each day, for their own happiness. Sign-up for Just One Thing from Dr. Rick Hanson here, and receive more simple practices for greater well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 6, 2019 • 5:13

Emotional Intelligence with Daniel Goleman

Emotional Intelligence with Daniel Goleman

Today we’re exploring one of the most important topics when it comes to our personal happiness, achievement, and general social functioning: Emotional Intelligence. And we have the absolute pleasure of speaking with one of the most influential people in that very important field.Today we’re joined by two special guests: Dr. Daniel Goleman and Michele Nevarez.You can put Dr. Goleman's expertise into practice with one of his flexible online courses.Want to become more emotionally intellig

Jun 3, 2019 • 36:18

How Not to Become Your Parents

How Not to Become Your Parents

We all have tendencies in our relationships, and particularly our important ones. Some of these are good, while others can be destructive. And sometimes we might find ourselves in cycles where the trajectory of all our important relationships tends to look the same.Today we’re continuing our series on “Who Am I” by taking a look at where those tendencies come from, and how we can work inside ourselves to relate to them and others more effectively.Sign-up for Dr. Hanson's new monthly med

May 27, 2019 • 36:10

Bringing Strength to Compassion with Kristin Neff

Bringing Strength to Compassion with Kristin Neff

In the second part of their conversation with Dr. Kristin Neff, Forrest and Dr. Hanson speak with her about how we can be compassionate under challenging circumstances. Particularly, how can we bring strength to compassion without tipping into anger?Learn more about Dr. Neff's Mindful Self-Compassion program here.Sign-up for Dr. Hanson's new monthly meditation program here. Use the code BEINGWELL for 10% off the purchase price: https://bit.ly/2NEnVU3Timestamps:01:52: Can we have too muc

May 23, 2019 • 20:51

Self-Compassion with Kristin Neff

Self-Compassion with Kristin Neff

We all have a negative voice that lives inside our heads, and it’s very challenging to perform at our best when we’re not kind and supportive of ourselves.Dr. Hanson and I began our book Resilient with a chapter dedicated to compassion, and particularly self-compassion. It’s the fundamental building block on which our personal growth rests.On this episode, Dr. Hanson and I are joined by one of the world’s leading experts on self-compassion, Dr. Kristin Neff. Dr. Neff is the Associate Pr

May 20, 2019 • 20:23

Mailbag: Building Resilient Relationships

Mailbag: Building Resilient Relationships

Forrest and Dr. Hanson answer two questions from listeners related to our important relationships. In the first part, they explore how can we raise resilient children. In the second, they focus on challenging workplace relationships. If you’d like to submit a question to be answered during a future mailbag, use the form on this page. Sign-up for Dr. Hanson's new monthly meditation program here. Use the code BEINGWELL for 10% off the purchase price: https://bit.ly/2NEnVU3 Timestamps: 00

May 13, 2019 • 38:33

The Science of a Meaningful Life with Jason Marsh

The Science of a Meaningful Life with Jason Marsh

Intuition and personal insight can be powerful tools for determining our individual paths toward well being. But sometimes it's nice to refer to some good, old fashioned empirical evidence, and check in with what the research has to say about a given question!On this episode Dr. Hanson and Forrest are joined by Jason Marsh, the founding editor-in-chief of Greater Good Magazine, published by the Greater Good Science Center. Together they explore key, research-based insights into living a

May 6, 2019 • 35:14

Confidence or Narcissism?

Confidence or Narcissism?

Dr. Hanson and Forrest continue their series on “Who Am I” by exploring narcissism and narcissistic personality disorder. Specifically, how can we take in the healthy narcissistic supplies we need to become confident, effective individuals without falling prey to unhealthy narcissistic tendencies? Sign-up for Dr. Hanson's new monthly meditation program here. Use the code BEINGWELL for 10% off the purchase price: https://bit.ly/2NEnVU3 Timestamps: 01:22: How would you, as a clinician, de

Apr 29, 2019 • 40:25

Mailbag: Learning to Let Go

Mailbag: Learning to Let Go

Dr. Hanson and Forrest answer questions from listeners that explore how we can release our attachment to different experiences, and learn to let go. If you'd like to submit a question, use the form on this page! Timestamps: 1:25: Dealing with a hoarding addiction. 15:23: The difference between chemical and natural states of mind. 24:11: Should we bring pharmaceuticals into our mindfulness practice? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 22, 2019 • 31:43

Just One Thing: Oren Jay Sofer

Just One Thing: Oren Jay Sofer

Author and mindfulness teacher Oren Jay Sofer shares the one thing he does each day for his own well-being. Get more Just One Things from Dr. Rick Hanson here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 18, 2019 • 9:42

Learning Nonviolent Communication with Oren Jay Sofer

Learning Nonviolent Communication with Oren Jay Sofer

So much of our happiness and well-being comes back to how effectively we’re able to communicate with others – particularly in our important relationships. But how often are we our best selves? Are we able to hear others and speak our mind in a clear and kind way, without either becoming defensive or being excessively punishing and prosecutorial?To help us learn how to do just that, Forrest and Dr. Hanson are joined today by Oren Jay Sofer, the author of Say What You Mean: A Mindful Appr

Apr 15, 2019 • 42:09

Mailbag: Dealing with Hysteria and Violent Media

Mailbag: Dealing with Hysteria and Violent Media

During today's special mailbag episode, Dr. Hanson and Forrest answer questions from listeners related to things that can hijack our attention, specifically hysterical and violent forms of media. If you'd like to submit a question, use the form on this page! Royal Society Open Science Study Statement from the Society for Media Psychology and Technology of the American Psychological Association Consortium of Scholars Open Letter PNAS Metaanalysis Timestamps: 2:00: "I feel like our cultur

Apr 8, 2019 • 31:29

Finding the Sweet Spot with Dr. Christine Carter

Finding the Sweet Spot with Dr. Christine Carter

In part two of their conversation with Dr. Christine Carter, Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore the "Sweet Spot," that place of effortless effectiveness where we can be both productive and relaxed. Our relationships with other people are one of the major influences that can pull us out of that sweet spot, so they are once again a major focus during this episode.Support the Podcast: We're on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Key Topics:0:25: What is the "sweet s

Apr 5, 2019 • 26:18

Just One Thing: Christine Carter

Just One Thing: Christine Carter

Christine Carter shares the most important thing she does each day for her own well-being: finding the time to meditate and accept herself as she is. Sign up for Dr. Rick Hanson's free Just One Thing Newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 3, 2019 • 4:09

Parenting and Intimate Relationships with Christine Carter

Parenting and Intimate Relationships with Christine Carter

Parenting and forming strong intimate relationships can be challenging under the best of circumstances, and life is rarely perfect. In this episode Dr. Hanson and Forrest speak with Dr. Christine Carter, author of Raising Happiness and The Sweet Spot, about how we can form strong intimate relationships with our children, parents, and partners.This is the first part of two with Dr. Carter, the second episode in this series will be coming later this week.We're now on Patreon! If you'd lik

Apr 1, 2019 • 26:54

Just One Thing: Dave Asprey

Just One Thing: Dave Asprey

There's a lot of advice out there, so sometimes it's nice to have one simple thing to focus on. As we continue to speak with an incredible group of experts, we're going to ask them for their Just One Thing: the most important thing they do inside their own mind, each day, for their own well-being. We're beginning the series with Dave Asprey, founder of Bulletproof. Sign up for Dr. Rick Hanson's free Just One Thing Newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/ad

Mar 29, 2019 • 3:55

Becoming Bulletproof with Dave Asprey

Becoming Bulletproof with Dave Asprey

Dave Asprey is the founder and CEO of Bulletproof, a bestselling author, and an award winning podcaster. Today Forrest and Dr. Hanson talk with Dave about the power of biohacking, what truly motivates people to perform at the highest level, and the relationship between peak performance and well-being.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Key Topics:1:25: Why did you want to perform these experiments on yourself?2:35: How can you sp

Mar 25, 2019 • 45:20

Healing Shame with Compassion

Healing Shame with Compassion

Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore how compassion can serve as an antidote to shame with Dr. Chris Germer, a clinical psychologist and lecturer on psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. Chris is the co-founder of the Mindful Self-Compassion Program, and is a founding faculty member of the Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Key Topics:2:50: Non-duality4:10: Dr. Germer’s first experience with

Mar 18, 2019 • 48:25

Understanding Shame

Understanding Shame

Dr. Hanson and Forrest continue their series on "Who Am I" by exploring one of the fundamental human experiences: shame.Timestamps:1:30: Defining shame.4:10: Is there natural variation in how strongly people feel shame?9:00: Sociopathy10:00: Shame injuries and shaming experiences during childhood.13:30: Developing susceptibility to shame.18:20: Abuse and shame.24:30: The complex layering of our emotions.27:00: Working with and reducing shame.34:00: RecapSign-up for Dr. Hanson's new mont

Mar 11, 2019 • 37:16

Gretchen Rubin on Happiness and Habit

Gretchen Rubin on Happiness and Habit

Forrest and Dr. Hanson speak with many-time bestselling author, award-winning podcaster, and explorer of happiness, good habits, and human nature Gretchen Rubin. Together they talk about the importance of developing good habits, understanding your individual tendencies, and why one size rarely fits all.Purchase Gretchen's new book here: https://amzn.to/2C0uGexTimestamps:2:10: Gretchen's start in self-help.4:20: Key takeaways from The Happiness Project.7:30: Radical transitions.10:50: Ho

Mar 4, 2019 • 49:44

Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Forrest and Dr. Hanson continue their series on "Who Am I" with an exploration of tendencies related to obsessive compulsive disorder. This includes how we can manage our own tendencies in that direction, and support others in managing theirs.Sign-up for Dr. Hanson's new monthly meditation program here. Use the code BEINGWELL for 10% off the purchase price!Timestamps:3:09: Where does OCD come from?5:45: What does obsession mean clinically?10:05: How does OCD differ from other kinds of i

Feb 25, 2019 • 37:48

Minimalism with Matt D'Avella

Minimalism with Matt D'Avella

Forrest and Matt D’Avella, director of the Netflix documentary Minimalism, explore why minimalism changed Matt's life, how we can become more fulfilled by redefining success, and the importance of taking the first step toward distant goals.Matt's YouTube ChannelMatt's Podcast: The Ground Up ShowTimestamps:1:00: The power of establishing routines.5:45: Finding minimalism.9:45: Redefining success.11:40: Lifestyle creep and greed.14:30: Recognizing our needs.15:50: Finding buffer time.20:0

Feb 18, 2019 • 52:34

Managing Anxiety and Fear

Managing Anxiety and Fear

Dr. Hanson and Forrest continue their series on “Who Am I” by exploring the “how” of managing anxiety. This includes calming and settling ourselves during anxious states, reducing our “trait” of anxiety, and working with others to help them manage their own fears.Timestamps:2:30: What can we do to cope with anxiety?5:40: Why don’t we act when we’re anxious?10:15: The complex emotional stew of anxiety.15:40: How to investigate the roots of our anxiety.19:45: Suggestions for reducing trai

Feb 11, 2019 • 37:25

The Importance of Grit with Angela Duckworth

The Importance of Grit with Angela Duckworth

Dr. Angela Duckworth joins Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest to explore how we can become more passionate and perseverant when times are tough.About Our Guest: Dr. Angela Duckworth, a professor of psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, founder of the non-profit Character Lab, and author of the bestseller Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. Dr. Duckworth has also given an incredibly popular TED talk on the subject of Grit that’s been watched over 20 million times.Timestamps:1:45: What

Feb 4, 2019 • 44:31

Why We Worry

Why We Worry

Dr. Hanson and Forrest continue their series on the central question “Who Am I” by exploring subjects related to the development of fear, wariness, and worry in our often anxious brains.Timestamps:2:00: Threat, aversion, inhibition, wariness, and anxiety.6:50: The relationship between wariness and anxiety.8:20: Anxious states vs. anxiety as a trait.11:30: Is anxiety genetic?12:20: Why is there variation in levels of anxiety?17:40: Can we develop an anxious temperament over time?21:30: A

Jan 28, 2019 • 39:37

Managing Worry with Lori Deschene

Managing Worry with Lori Deschene

Forrest and Lori Deschene, founder of TinyBuddha.com, explore how we can learn to manage paralyzing experiences of anxiety and worry. This includes focusing on what you can control, limiting responsibility to a comfortable level, and developing comfort with uncertainty.Learn more about the Worry Journal and purchase your copy here.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Timestamps:2:30: What was the inspiration behind Tiny Buddha?5:3

Jan 21, 2019 • 36:14

New Series: Who Am I?

New Series: Who Am I?

Dr. Hanson and Forrest begin a new series of episodes dedicated to a simple question: Who am I? To explore this big question, they start by going into what creates our individual variation in personality and temperament, how we’re impacted by our genes and environment, the ups and downs of personality typing, and just how in control of our own nature we really are.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Timestamps:2:20: Where does pe

Jan 14, 2019 • 42:18

Caring For Yourself with Tara Brach

Caring For Yourself with Tara Brach

It’s easy for our New Year's aspirations and goals to come wrapped in a package of self-criticism. To help fight that, Dr. Rick Hanson is joined by Dr. Tara Brach for this special episode. Rick and Tara explore the importance of self-caring how we can grow this critical resource inside ourselves, and why it’s not selfish to be on your own side.If you'd like to learn more about The Foundations of Well Being, follow this link.Timestamps:3:00: The “sweet spot” of personal growth.6:45: Why

Jan 7, 2019 • 41:20

Maximizing Your New Year's Resolutions

Maximizing Your New Year's Resolutions

Today's episode focuses on getting the most out of your New Year's Resolutions!Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Timestamps:0:45: Do you make resolutions?2:30: A process for new resolutions.4:00: Focused goal setting.6:10: Good crowds out great.7:10: Be aware of how setting resolutions makes you feel.8:30: Pitfalls around resolutions.12:05: Process vs. outcome.13:20: Setting goals for love, work, and play.15:20: The power of little numb

Dec 31, 2018 • 39:00

Ep. 50: Widening The Circle Of Us

Ep. 50: Widening The Circle Of Us

Dr. Hanson and Forrest conclude their yearlong journey through the 12 strengths with a final episode dedicated to opening our hearts to all beings.If you would like to learn more about Dr. Hanson's new online program Neurodharma, follow this link! Use the code BEINGWELL for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Connect with the show:Visit us on the webFollow us on InstagramFollow Rick on FacebookFollow Forrest on

Dec 24, 2018 • 39:29

Ep. 49: Forgiving Yourself

Ep. 49: Forgiving Yourself

In the second of our two episodes dedicated to Forgiveness, Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore the tender territory of forgiving yourself. If you'd like to learn more about Dr. Hanson's online program The Foundations of Well Being, follow this link! Use the code BEINGWELL10 for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Connect with the show: Visit us on the web Follow us on Instagram Follow Rick on Facebook Follo

Dec 17, 2018 • 26:25

Ep. 48: The Gift of Forgiveness

Ep. 48: The Gift of Forgiveness

Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore one of the most important, and challenging, ways we can give to other people: Forgiveness. If you'd like to learn more about Dr. Hanson's online program The Foundations of Well Being, follow this link! Use the code BEINGWELL10 for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Connect with the show:Visit us on the webFollow us on InstagramFollow Rick on FacebookFollow Forrest on FacebookSubsc

Dec 10, 2018 • 36:44

Ep. 47: Appreciating Your Generosity

Ep. 47: Appreciating Your Generosity

Each of us gives in many small ways every day. Each of these gifts is valuable, and each is an opportunity to feel good. But it's often hard to experience them that way! Dr. Hanson and Forrest begin the final strength of Generosity by exploring how we can do just that.  If you'd like to learn more about Dr. Hanson's online program The Foundations of Well Being, follow this link! Use the code BEINGWELL10 for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to suppor

Dec 3, 2018 • 31:07

Ep. 46: How to Give What's in Your Heart

Ep. 46: How to Give What's in Your Heart

How would your behavior change if you framed your actions as offerings to others? Dr. Hanson and Forrest bring the strength of Aspiration to a close by exploring how we can give what's truly in our heart.If you'd like to learn more about Dr. Hanson's online program The Foundations of Well Being, follow this link! Use the code BEINGWELL10 for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Connect with the show: Vis

Nov 26, 2018 • 29:55

Ep. 45: Aspiration Without Attachment

Ep. 45: Aspiration Without Attachment

Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore how we can "aspire without attachment;" dreaming big dreams and pursuing them with commitment, while also being at peace with whatever happens.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like t

Nov 19, 2018 • 33:05

Ep. 44: Honoring Your Childhood Dreams

Ep. 44: Honoring Your Childhood Dreams

Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore how we can learn from and bring to life our childhood dreams - a key part of Aspiration.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Connect with the show:Vi

Nov 13, 2018 • 39:08

Ep. 43: Aspiration with Dr. Dan Siegel

Ep. 43: Aspiration with Dr. Dan Siegel

Today we’re beginning a new strength, Aspiration, with a conversation between Dr. Hanson and Dr. Dan Siegel. During this episode, Dr. Siegel will explain how you can use “mindsight" to tap into the dreams you had as a child, and honor those aspirations as an adult. This interview is also a part of the Foundations of Well-Being online program. If you'd like to learn more about the Foundations of Well Being: https://thefoundationsofwellbeing.com/affiliate/38370Sponsor Message: We're now o

Nov 5, 2018 • 1:01:26

Ep. 42: Repairing Relationships

Ep. 42: Repairing Relationships

At even the best of times, our relationships require a natural process of correction – let’s call it repair – to clear up little misunderstandings and ease points of friction. Doing that skillfully is the focus of today's episode.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase pric

Oct 29, 2018 • 29:48

Ep. 41: How to Assert Yourself Effectively

Ep. 41: How to Assert Yourself Effectively

Relationships go smoothly when everyone wants the same thing. But how common is that? On this episode, Forrest and Dr. Hanson continue the strength of Courage by exploring how we can assert ourselves effectively.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message:

Oct 22, 2018 • 39:02

Ep. 40: Speaking from the Heart

Ep. 40: Speaking from the Heart

Think about the weight of what’s been unsaid in your relationships. What have the effects been on you and other people? Today we’ll explore how to express those undelivered communications, and "speak from the heart" with kindness and skill.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the pur

Oct 15, 2018 • 45:33

Ep. 39: People Aren't Dependable. Now What?

Ep. 39: People Aren't Dependable. Now What?

We have a natural desire for a reliable world - but life happens, and no person or organization is perfectly dependable. Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore how we can learn to manage that natural undependability.If you'd like to learn more about Dr. Hanson's online program The Foundations of Well Being, follow this link! Use the code BEINGWELL10 for 10% off the purchase price.Connect with the show: Visit us on the web Follow us on Instagram Follow Rick on Facebook Follow Forrest on Facebook

Oct 8, 2018 • 22:44

Ep. 38: How to Keep Your Eyes On the Prize

Ep. 38: How to Keep Your Eyes On the Prize

It’s easy to spend more time dwelling on the faults of others than reflecting on the room for improvement in oneself. Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore how "unilateral virtue" helps us focus on our side of the street, and keep our eyes on the prize.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off t

Oct 2, 2018 • 36:32

Ep. 37: Become Kinder and More Compassionate

Ep. 37: Become Kinder and More Compassionate

One would think it would be obvious, but the importance of warming the heart, and developing greater compassion and kindness as personal traits, is often overlooked in our important relationships. Dr. Hanson draws on 35+ years of couples counseling experience to teach us how to do just that.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Us

Sep 24, 2018 • 26:15

Ep. 36: How to Become More Empathic

Ep. 36: How to Become More Empathic

One of the most important interpersonal skills is empathy, which allows us to tune into and understand other people. Dr. Hanson and Forrest continue their discussion on Intimacy by exploring how we can grow this key strength.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Spo

Sep 17, 2018 • 35:06

Ep. 35: Developing Intimacy and Autonomy

Ep. 35: Developing Intimacy and Autonomy

Dr. Hanson and Forrest begin a new strength, Intimacy, with a discussion focused on how to balance two seemingly conflicting goals: maintaining our independence from other people while also forging emotionally intimate relationships with them.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the

Sep 10, 2018 • 37:13

Ep. 34: Learn to Pursue Your Goals

Ep. 34: Learn to Pursue Your Goals

On this unique episode, Forrest interviews Dr. Hanson about his personal story of motivation – including how to transform from someone who lacks a natural feeling of motivation to someone who can diligently pursue their goals.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sp

Sep 5, 2018 • 31:03

Ep. 33: How to Motivate Yourself

Ep. 33: How to Motivate Yourself

We all have things we know would be good to do, but it’s hard to do them. On this episode, Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest focus on a key aspect of motivation: how we can incline our minds to break bad habits, and want the things that are good for it.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off

Aug 27, 2018 • 50:21

Ep. 32: Use Passion Without Stress

Ep. 32: Use Passion Without Stress

Dr. Hanson and Forrest continue the strength of Motivation by exploring how we can use healthy passion without falling victim to unhealthy righteousness, anger, and stress.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to

Aug 20, 2018 • 29:49

Ep. 31: Motivation Without Attachment

Ep. 31: Motivation Without Attachment

On this episode, Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest begin the strength of Motivation with an episode that explores how we can pursue our goals with passion and purpose, without becoming painfully attached to them.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're

Aug 13, 2018 • 34:53

Ep. 30: 7 Ways Past Anger

Ep. 30: 7 Ways Past Anger

Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest conclude the strength of Calm with an episode dedicated to exploring seven ways we can work with anger skillfully.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow th

Aug 6, 2018 • 40:24

Ep. 29: Injustice and Anger

Ep. 29: Injustice and Anger

Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest talk about managing one of our most difficult emotions: anger. Specifically, they focus on how we can distinguish between skillful and unskillful anger, particularly relating to issues of social justice.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase pri

Jul 30, 2018 • 39:33

Ep. 28: How to Feel Safe

Ep. 28: How to Feel Safe

Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest discuss how we can fight back against fear and learn to feel safer. They explore ways to reduce anxiety, identify resources, and deal with the real challenges of life.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're now on Pat

Jul 23, 2018 • 37:29

Ep. 27: Avoiding Needless Fear

Ep. 27: Avoiding Needless Fear

Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest discuss how to manage and reduce a particular kind of fear: paper tiger paranoia. This fear is characterized by needless anxiety that comes from the brain’s creation of imaginary threats.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Messa

Jul 16, 2018 • 26:34

Ep. 26: Use Calm to Fight Stress

Ep. 26: Use Calm to Fight Stress

Dr. Hanson and Forrest begin a new series of episodes exploring the strength of Calm. Particularly, they focus on how we can learn to activate the calming wing of the nervous system to fight back against stress.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're now

Jul 9, 2018 • 32:00

Ep. 25: How to Feel "Like a Good Person"

Ep. 25: How to Feel "Like a Good Person"

It's often surprisingly hard to feel like a good person...even if we are one! Dr. Hanson and Forrest wrap up the strength of Confidence by exploring how we can authentically feel like a good person from the top-down and the bottom-up.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase

Jul 2, 2018 • 22:26

Ep. 24: Managing Your Inner Critic

Ep. 24: Managing Your Inner Critic

There are two “characters” we all have inside our minds: an inner critic and an inner nurturer. Dr. Hanson and Forrest focus on how we can manage our inner critic while building up a strong inner nurturer.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're

Jun 25, 2018 • 26:37

BONUS: Paul Gilbert on Confidence

BONUS: Paul Gilbert on Confidence

On today’s episode of the Being Well Podcast, Dr. Hanson interviews Dr. Paul Gilbert, professor of clinical psychology at the University of Darby and the founder of compassion focused therapy. They explore how we can grow a healthy sense of self-worth, be honest without being critical, and stop undermining our own confidence.The content of today's episode was taken from Dr. Hanson's online course, The Foundations of Well-Being.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to supp

Jun 18, 2018 • 1:10:33

Ep. 23: Stop Punishing Yourself

Ep. 23: Stop Punishing Yourself

Our negative reactions to the painful experiences of life that are often more harmful than those experiences themselves. Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore how we can avoid these “second darts."If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon!

Jun 13, 2018 • 24:18

Ep. 22: Secure and Insecure Attachment

Ep. 22: Secure and Insecure Attachment

Attachment Theory is one of the most important frameworks in psychology. Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore why this theory is so relevant for everyday life, and how adults who may have had challenging childhood relationships can become more securely attached in the here and now.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEING

Jun 4, 2018 • 43:26

Ep. 21: How to Be Happy for Other People

Ep. 21: How to Be Happy for Other People

There is one form of happiness that is always available: happiness for others. Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore how feelings of altruistic joy can be a powerful antidote for experiences of disappointment and envy.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message:

May 28, 2018 • 24:54

Ep. 19: Take in the Good

Ep. 19: Take in the Good

So many good things happen to us that we don't take the time to fully take in. Dr. Hanson and Forrest look at the role fully taking in the good things in life has in the process of building mental strengths.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We'r

May 14, 2018 • 22:03

Ep. 18: Why Gratitude Is a Gift to Yourself

Ep. 18: Why Gratitude Is a Gift to Yourself

We think of gratitude as a gift to others, but it's often a wonderful gift to ourselves. Dr. Hanson and Forrest move on to the fifth of the twelve strengths they’ll be covering during this series: Gratitude. During this episode they explore the role of positive emotions generally, and particularly the value of “thankfulness.”If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson

May 7, 2018 • 32:43

Ep. 20: Forming a Healthy Relationship with Goals

Ep. 20: Forming a Healthy Relationship with Goals

How can we set and stick to our goals without getting overly attached to them or punishing ourselves if we backslide? Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore how we can feel more successful by noticing the many small goals we accomplish each day, and fully internalizing that experience so it becomes a lasting resource.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program:

May 5, 2018 • 32:38

Ep. 17: Relating to Your Body

Ep. 17: Relating to Your Body

Learn how to form a more positive relationship with your body by accepting, nurturing, and appreciating it. Dr. Hanson and Forrest discuss key elements of the strength of Vitality, and how it relates to Grit.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We'

Apr 30, 2018 • 25:10

Ep. 16: Using Your Fierceness

Ep. 16: Using Your Fierceness

Dr. Hanson and Forrest talk about a particularly challenging aspect of the strength of determination: fierceness. They explore how the ‘feral’ parts of our mind can be a powerful resource, and how we can use that inner strength rather than be used by it.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 1

Apr 23, 2018 • 31:28

Ep. 15: How to Become More Determined

Ep. 15: How to Become More Determined

On today’s episode of the Being Well Podcast, Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest continue their focus on the strength of Grit with determination. Particularly, they look at the different aspects of determination, and explore how we can grow each of them over time.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off

Apr 18, 2018 • 25:44

Ep. 14: The Power of Agency

Ep. 14: The Power of Agency

On today’s episode of the Being Well Podcast, Dr. Hanson begins a new focus on the fourth of the twelve strengths he’ll be covering throughout this series: Grit. Particularly, this episode explores how to grow agency – an aspect of grit where we feel like a cause rather than an effect.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEIN

Apr 9, 2018 • 26:41

Ep. 13: Remove the Bad with the Good

Ep. 13: Remove the Bad with the Good

Dr. Rick Hanson and Forrest discuss "linking" - how we can use new, positive experiences to soften and eventually replace old, negative ones.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow thi

Apr 2, 2018 • 32:02

Ep. 12: Finding What You Really Need

Ep. 12: Finding What You Really Need

On today’s episode of the Being Well podcast, Dr. Hanson and Forrest talk about how we can find and use “key resource experiences” – experiences that we can match to our unique vulnerabilities in order to grow the strengths we need the most.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the pu

Mar 27, 2018 • 29:32

Ep. 11: Make Your Learning Last

Ep. 11: Make Your Learning Last

How can we help the brain "absorb" the things we want it to hold on to? Dr. Rick Hanson explores the “installation” stage of learning in detail, including how we can internalize the various positive aspects of any experience to grow the strengths we need the most.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to

Mar 19, 2018 • 31:41

Ep. 10: H.E.A.L. Yourself

Ep. 10: H.E.A.L. Yourself

HOW can we grow the positive traits we want more of inside ourselves? On this episode Dr. Hanson explains the HEAL process that allows us to learn from our experiences more effectively.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like

Mar 12, 2018 • 26:43

Ep. 9: Respond, Don't React

Ep. 9: Respond, Don't React

Learn how to respond to challenges from the “green zone” of the brain rather than reacting instinctively from the “red zone.” Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore the biology behind these two systems, the role of mindfulness in moving from one to the other, and how to combat the brain’s evolved negativity bias.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have

Mar 5, 2018 • 27:36

Ep. 8: How to Meet Your Needs

Ep. 8: How to Meet Your Needs

Dr. Hanson explains why it’s not so bad to be “needy.” We all have needs for safety, satisfaction, and connection, the question is how can we meet them skillfully?Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout fo

Feb 27, 2018 • 20:25

Ep. 7: Dealing with the Mind

Ep. 7: Dealing with the Mind

The mind is a dangerous neighborhood, and there are three ways we can skillfully 'deal with' the often problematic neighbor that lives in our heads. Rick and Forrest explore how we can be with our experience, let go of negative thoughts and feelings, and plant new flowers in the garden of the mind.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't ha

Feb 20, 2018 • 30:38

Ep. 6: Mindfulness

Ep. 6: Mindfulness

Dr. Hanson and Forrest begin this month's topic of Mindfulness by focusing on how we can use mindfulness in practical ways in the flow of our daily lives.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off

Feb 12, 2018 • 20:10

Ep. 5: Take the Time to Enjoy Life

Ep. 5: Take the Time to Enjoy Life

Dr. Rick Hanson explains why enjoying life is both easy to dismiss and surprisingly hard to do. Particularly, he explores how we can authentically find enjoyable moments even during very difficult times in our lives.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: J

Feb 5, 2018 • 18:20

Ep. 4: Accept to Grow

Ep. 4: Accept to Grow

On this episode of the Being Well Podcast, Dr. Hanson and Forrest focus on the importance of acceptance. Particularly, they talk about how an authentic moment of acceptance can be a catalyst for positive growth.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just O

Jan 29, 2018 • 20:30

Ep. 3: How to Grow Self-Compassion

Ep. 3: How to Grow Self-Compassion

How we can use self-compassion to reduce rumination, feel safe while taking big risks, and improve our relationships with other people. Dr. Hanson and Forrest also explore what makes self-compassion different from self-pity or being on your own side.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Ric

Jan 22, 2018 • 17:50

Ep. 2: Being On Your Own Side

Ep. 2: Being On Your Own Side

Dr. Hanson focuses on the importance of self-compassion - and particularly on why it's important to get "on your own side" in order to create lasting, positive change in the brain.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWE

Jan 16, 2018 • 19:05

Season 2, Ep. 1: Introducing Resilience

Season 2, Ep. 1: Introducing Resilience

What does it mean to truly be Resilient? Dr. Hanson explains the importance of Resilience and HOW we can grow the most important strength for achieving reliable happiness. Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at ch

Jan 9, 2018 • 15:18

20: The Foundation of Mindfulness

20: The Foundation of Mindfulness

This week Dr. Hanson continues our focus on mindfulness with a presentation on the foundation of the four foundations of mindfulness. This includes an exploration of mindfulness in general, and the application of mindfulness to several key topics.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick H

Oct 27, 2016 • 0:00

19: Mindfulness with Jack Kornfield

19: Mindfulness with Jack Kornfield

Dr. Hanson returns with a very special interview with Jack Kornfield. Jack discusses how you can develop the willingness, courage, and capacity to become more present and more self-aware, as well as how you can overcome physical and emotional pain to direct your attention to well-being.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra tim

Oct 5, 2016 • 0:00

18: Speaking From the Heart Practice

18: Speaking From the Heart Practice

Dr. Hanson completes the theme of effective communication with an experiential practice focused on Speaking from the Heart. It’s a nice way to bring together all of the material we’ve covered in this theme.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use

Aug 25, 2016 • 0:00

17: Speaking with Heart

17: Speaking with Heart

A very special episode on the importance of speaking from the heart. A lot of people struggle with expressing their deep desires to the meaningful people in their life – but it’s one of the most important aspects of effective communication.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's

Aug 17, 2016 • 0:00

6: Finding and Keeping a Healthy Relationship

6: Finding and Keeping a Healthy Relationship

Dr. Hanson and Forrest on the nature of relationships, what some big "red flags" are, and how to create a frame of effective communication with the people you care about. It's a fun episode, hope you enjoy it!Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One

Aug 9, 2016 • 32:53

15: Squabbles Are Impermanent

15: Squabbles Are Impermanent

Dr. Hanson looks at interactions in relationships through a slightly different lens - focusing on how understanding the impermanence of our grievances with others can lead to greater happiness in our relationships.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Min

Aug 1, 2016 • 0:00

14: Speaking with Empathy

14: Speaking with Empathy

Today Dr. Hanson begins a new focus on effective communication with an episode on empathy. He gives a quick overview of how empathy functions in the brain before diving into why empathy is so important in our relationships with other people, and how we can be empathic while still maintaining our autonomy!Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have

Jul 28, 2016 • 0:00

13: Feeling Cared About

13: Feeling Cared About

Dr. Hanson walks you through an experiential practice designed to get you in touch with a deeper sense of feeling cared about by others. Just as it’s important to care for other people, it’s also important to feel cared for!Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Ju

Jul 25, 2016 • 0:00

12: The Dance of Intimacy and Autonomy

12: The Dance of Intimacy and Autonomy

Sometimes it’s great to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. Today on this special "Just One Thing" episode, Dr. Hanson explains the relationship between intimacy and autonomy - and why a strong sense of self is so important to building fulfilling relationships with other people.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and

Jul 22, 2016 • 0:00

11: Intimacy With Linda Graham

11: Intimacy With Linda Graham

Today we’re continuing our new theme focused on building inner strengths related to relationships and effective communication with a wonderful interview with psychotherapist Linda Graham. We focus on the topic of Intimacy, and particularly on how development as a child can impact our relationships later in life. Content from this episode was taken from Dr. Hanson's Foundations of Well-Being program. If you'd like to learn more about the Foundations program follow the link.Sponsor Message: We're

Jul 11, 2016 • 0:00

10: Me And We

10: Me And We

On this episode of Being Well we start a new theme focusing on developing strengths for effective relationships. Today Dr. Hanson zeros in on the balance between two desires that’s fundamental to regulating our needs for closeness and connection to other people, one for intimacy and one for autonomy - or what he refers to as "Me and We." If you’d like more content like this, sign up for our free weekly newsletter here.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, f

Jul 8, 2016 • 0:00

5: JOT - Take in the Good

5: JOT - Take in the Good

Dr. Hanson explains the concept of “Just One Thing,” and applies it to his technique of Taking in the Good. If you’d like more Just One Thing, sign up for our free weekly newsletter here.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code

Jul 5, 2016 • 10:59

8: Bonus: Q&A with Forrest Hanson

8: Bonus: Q&A with Forrest Hanson

In today's special bonus episode, Dr. Hanson is interviewed by his son Forrest, who asks him a variety of questions on the importance of happiness, growing up under different conditions, and why it's important to develop inner strengths in the first place.Sponsor Message:  We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check

Jul 1, 2016 • 0:00

4: The H-E-A-L Process

4: The H-E-A-L Process

Dr. Hanson explains how we can actually go about the process of growing the good stuff in your mind and life – especially in the face of the brain’s negativity bias. To do this, we can use a method called “Taking in the Good.”Want more from Dr. Hanson? Check out the free “Just One Thing” newsletter here.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you do

Jun 27, 2016 • 26:07

6: Self-Compassion Practice

6: Self-Compassion Practice

In this simple audio practice Dr. Hanson continues to explore the material around self-compassion, and developing a deep sense of being “for yourself!”Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchas

Jun 23, 2016 • 0:00

3: Being For Yourself

3: Being For Yourself

Many people are much better at being “for others” than they are at being “for themselves.” In this episode Dr. Hanson explains how to develop a fundamental stance of being on your own side.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the cod

Jun 20, 2016 • 27:15

2: Use The Mind To Change The Brain

2: Use The Mind To Change The Brain

Dr. Hanson explains how we can use the attention of the mind to change the physical structures of our brain for the better! This is one of his "big ideas," so it's a key episode to listen to!Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEING

Jun 16, 2016 • 34:04

3: Gratitude with Gretchen Rubin

3: Gratitude with Gretchen Rubin

Dr. Hanson interviews Gretchen Rubin, the bestselling author of the Happiness Project and host of Happier with Gretchen Rubin. Learn Gretchen’s key tips for happiness, what the “bad trance” is and how you can avoid it, and the power of good habits!  Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Ric

Jun 13, 2016 • 0:00

2: Befriending Yourself

2: Befriending Yourself

On this episode of the podcast Dr. Rick Hanson leads you through a simple guided practice designed to get you "on your own side.” He explores a number of ways to cultivate a deep sense of being a friend to yourself – just as you are to many other people in your life.Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want

Jun 9, 2016 • 0:00

1: How to Build A Happier Brain

1: How to Build A Happier Brain

Welcome to Being Well with Dr. Rick Hanson! On this podcast we’ll learn how to increase our everyday happiness, build inner strengths, and get the most out of life. On our first episode, Dr. Hanson gives an overview of some of the central questions this podcast will try to answer: Why does your brain have what scientists call a “negativity bias”? What does this mean? And what are some of the things we can do to build a happier, healthier brain?Sponsor Message:From Dr. Hanson: The Founda

Jun 4, 2016 • 29:39

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