Sometimes the happiest and most successful people are the ones who know when to stop.
Matt O'Neill built Good Mood Revolution into a top 1.5% global podcast with 230,000 downloads, but he's walking away at the peak. Why? Because he learned the ultimate happiness lesson: all the expert advice in the world means nothing if you're too busy to live it.
In this deeply personal final episode, Matt shares the most life-changing insights from his journey: from Marianne Williamson's revelation that happiness is love, to Lou Holtz's three principles for winning each day, to Dr. David Burns' discovery that depression often stems from beautiful values we hold too tightly.
You'll hear the strategies that transformed Matt's life—from Trish Blackwell's negative thought reframing technique to Sonja Lyubomirsky's research showing that 15-minute conversations are scientifically the happiest thing you can do. Most importantly, you'll understand why Matt realized that all the productivity hacks and goal-setting in the world can't replace the simple joy of being fully present with the people who matter most.
This isn't goodbye forever—it's Matt choosing to live the happiness principles he's spent years teaching. Sometimes the most revolutionary act is slowing down to savor what you already have.
0:00 Intro
2:05 Marianne Williamson: Happiness is love
4:02 Lou Holtz's three principles for winning the day
6:22 Dr. David Burns: Why depression reveals beautiful values
8:48 Dr. Jeffrey Rediger: Happiness is the best medicine
10:45 Joe Wechsler: The comfort crisis and why adventure makes us happy
12:43 Why Matt's "dream job" was right in front of him
15:11 Trish Blackwell's life-changing negative thought technique
18:28 Arian Mateo: How core beliefs create your reality
21:51 Matt King: If you want a better present, get a bigger future
23:20 Sonja Lyubomirsky: The scientifically happiest thing you can do
27:55 Eric Weiner: There's no such thing as personal happiness
29:01 Phil Moeller's Purpose Matrix: Ordering your life priorities
31:26 A final thank you and signing off
Resources Mentioned:
📚"A Return to Love" by Marianne Williamson
📚"Feeling Great" by Dr. David Burns
📚"Cured" by Dr. Jeffrey Rediger
📚"So Good They Can't Ignore You" by Cal Newport
📚"The How of Happiness" by Sonja Lyubomirsky
📚"The Geography of Bliss" by Eric Weiner
🌐Matt O'Neill's website and goal-setting worksheet: https://mattoneil.com
📖"The Good Mood Revolution: Igniting the Power of Conscious Happiness" by Matt O'Neill
About the Host:
Matt O'Neill is the bestselling author of "The Good Mood Revolution," CEO of Matt O'Neill Real Estate, and the host who spent three years interviewing nearly 200 of the world's top happiness experts. Through Good Mood Revolution, Matt discovered that true happiness isn't about achieving more—it's about being present with what you already have. After reaching over 230,000 downloads and becoming a top 1.5% podcast globally, Matt is stepping away to live the principles he's spent years teaching: prioritizing God, family, and presence over productivity and achievement.
What if the thoughts driving your stress, anxiety, and unhappiness aren't even true?
Join Matt O'Neill and Dr. Seth Gillihan as they reveal the life-changing power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy combined with mindfulness—a proven approach that's as effective as antidepressant medication, but without the side effects. Seth shows you how to break free from the prison of negative automatic thoughts that hijack your peace and steal your present moments.
This isn't about positive thinking or denial. It's about learning to see your thoughts as events in your mind, not facts about reality. You'll discover why your brain automatically scans for problems (and how to counter it), the difference between helpful reframing and toxic positivity, and practical techniques you can use starting today to challenge distorted thinking patterns.
Whether you're caught in spirals of self-doubt, overwhelmed by daily stress, or simply missing the magic of your own life, this conversation will give you the tools to step back, breathe, and see clearly what's actually happening versus what your mind is telling you is happening.
0:00 Introduction
0:49 What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
1:44 CBT vs. Antidepressant Medication
3:11 CBT vs. Traditional Talk Therapy
4:37 What are Negative Automatic Thoughts?
8:20 Breaking Thought Patterns with Evidence
12:26 Examining Thoughts vs. Reality
17:13 When Thoughts Become Self-Blame
20:58 Why "Should" Statements Keep You Stuck
23:54 The Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity of this Moment
27:02 Parenting, Presence, and The Last Times We Don't See Coming
29:52 How Mindfulness Reduces Anxiety and Depression
31:35 Simple Ways to Start Being More Mindful
35:12 Tracking Your Stressful Thoughts
Resources Mentioned:
🌐Dr. Seth Gillihan's website: https://SethGillihan.com
About the Guest:
Dr. Seth Gillihan is a clinical psychologist, author, and expert in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness-based interventions. He specializes in helping people break free from negative thought patterns and develop greater presence and peace in their daily lives. Through his work, Seth has helped countless individuals learn that their thoughts are not facts and that they have the power to respond rather than react to life's challenges. His approach combines evidence-based therapeutic techniques with accessible mindfulness practices that anyone can implement.
What if the secret to everything you want isn't grinding harder, but feeling better?
Join Matt O'Neill and Andrew Kap as they blow apart everything you think you know about getting what you want in life. Andrew's approach isn't about vision boards or endless affirmations—it's about a revolutionary five-minute daily practice that transformed his life from total disaster to dream reality in just six months.
After losing his business and his relationship, Andrew discovered something counterintuitive: the harder you chase what you want, the more you reinforce not having it. But when you feel good just for the sake of feeling good, life starts organizing itself around you in ways that seem impossible.
You'll learn why manifestation works whether you believe in it or not (think "Muscle Fairy"), how to use the "Paint Can Theory" to choose your life's emotional color, and Andrew's exact voice memo technique that's helped hundreds of thousands of people create their dream lives. This isn't mystical—it's practical, sustainable, and backed by results from over 150,000 readers.
0:00 Introduction
1:07 Andrew's breakthrough story
2:50 Andrew's personal journey from rock bottom to transformation
6:06 Why only five to ten minutes a day is the secret
7:28 The "Muscle Fairy" theory
10:03 How miracles happen all around us every day
12:07 Taking complete responsibility for your reality
14:34 Ten powerfully simple ways to just feel good
17:29 Why you should never feel good to attract things
19:16 The power of recalling happy memories
21:44 The paint can theory
23:11 Andrew's exact five-minute daily ritual revealed
28:05 Handling deep emotional wounds and resistance
29:14 How to pull yourself out of negative spirals
32:22 The one thing to focus on this week
Resources Mentioned:
Andrew Kap's books:
📚 "The Last Law of Attraction Book You'll Ever Need to Read"
📚 "Just Feel Good"
🌐Andrew Kap's website: https://andrewkap.com
📺Andrew's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@andrewkap
About the Guest:
Andrew Kap is the bestselling author of "The Last Law of Attraction Book You'll Ever Need to Read," which has sold over 150,000 copies and garnered more than 6,500 five-star reviews. After hitting rock bottom in his thirties—losing his business and his relationship—Andrew discovered a simple five-minute daily practice that completely transformed his life within six months. His approach to manifestation focuses on feeling good for the sake of feeling good, rather than as a strategy to get something. Andrew's work emphasizes practical, sustainable methods that anyone can implement, regardless of how busy or skeptical they might be.
Anxiety doesn't always come from having too much on your plate or doing too much. Often it comes from doing the wrong things.
Join Matt O'Neill and entrepreneur Phil Moeller as they dive deep into the revolutionary Purpose Matrix—a life-changing framework that will bring clarity, calm, and fulfillment to your chaotic world. Phil discovered that his crippling anxiety wasn't from being busy, but from being busy with things that didn't align with who he really was.
This isn't another productivity hack. This is about getting crystal clear on your identity across the four pillars of life: Faith, Family, Finance, and Fitness. You'll learn the PEACE framework (Purpose, Education, Associations, Courage, Example) that transforms confusion into confidence and overwhelm into ownership.
Whether you're struggling with direction, feeling pulled in too many directions, or wondering why success doesn't feel fulfilling, this conversation will give you the tools to align your daily actions with your deepest values and finally find the peace you've been searching for.
0:00 Introduction
2:30 Phil's Story of Anxiety and Identity Crisis at 30
5:45 Who Am I and Where Do I Come From?
8:15 The Four Life Buckets
12:20 Why Balance Is Wrong and Alignment Is Everything
15:30 The Calendar Test
18:45 The Purpose Matrix Framework Explained
22:15 The PEACE Acronym Breakdown
26:40 Associations Accelerate Growth and Accountability
30:20 You Are What You Do, Not What You Say
33:15 The Enemy of Peace is Distraction, not Failure
35:50 Taking Ownership of Actions, Not Results
38:25 Balancing Contentment With Courage
40:30 Where To Start When You Feel Overwhelmed
Resources Mentioned:
🌐 Phil Moeller's website: https://www.moellere.com
🌐 Phil Moeller's Podcast The Puprose Matrix: youtube.com/@philonpurpose
🌐 Gobundance: https://gobundance.com
📧Contact Phil: info@moellere.com
About the Guest:
Phil Moeller is an entrepreneur, man of faith, husband, and father of five who created the Purpose Matrix after struggling with anxiety and identity confusion in his thirties. Through years of trial and refinement, Phil developed a systematic approach to aligning life's key areas—Faith, Family, Finance, and Fitness—using the PEACE framework. His work focuses on helping high-achievers find clarity and contentment by understanding what they own (their actions) versus what they don't (the results). Phil is currently writing a book on the Purpose Matrix and developing interactive tools to help others implement this life-changing framework.
What if the things we avoid the most—like messing up, slowing down, being bored, or even facing our own death—are actually the gateways to lasting joy?
Join Matt O'Neill and award-winning journalist Eric Weiner as they shatter everything you thought you knew about happiness. Eric, author of the New York Times bestseller "The Geography of Bliss" (now a Peacock docu-series), has mapped happiness across the globe from Bhutan to Iceland, uncovering the counterintuitive secrets that separate the world's happiest cultures from America's convenience-obsessed society.
This isn't your typical happiness advice. You'll discover why failure is celebrated in Iceland, how boredom becomes bliss in Switzerland, why silence is sacred in Thailand, and the profound truth that happiness isn't personal—it's relational. Eric reveals why America, the wealthiest nation on Earth, doesn't even crack the top 20 in happiness rankings, and what we can learn from cultures that prioritize relationships over results.
Whether you're caught in the convenience trap, struggling with the paradox of choice, or wondering why all your achievements haven't made you happier, this conversation will revolutionize your understanding of what true contentment looks like.
0:00 Introduction
1:06 What sent Eric on his global happiness quest
2:56 Failure, silence, boredom, death
6:02 Why happiness is relational, not personal
8:58 The Thai teacher's wisdom
12:18 How envy destroys happiness and why the Swiss hide wealth
15:24 Why Iceland celebrates heroic failure
19:46 The surprising statistics about happiness
23:02 The experience machine thought experiment
25:04 Why thinking about happiness makes you unhappy
27:33 America's convenience trap destroys connection
32:45 The power of putting effort without attachment to results
Resources Mentioned:
Eric Weiner's books:
📚 "The Geography of Bliss"
📚 "Man Seeks God"
📚 "The Geography of Genius"
📚 "The Socrates Express"
📚 "Ben and Me: In Search of a Founder's Formula for a Long and Useful Life"
🌐 Eric Weiner's website: https://ericweinerbooks.com
📚 "Stumbling on Happiness" by Dan Gilbert
🌐 "Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss " https://www.peacocktv.com/stream-tv/rainn-wilson-and-the-geography-of-bliss
🌐 Bhutan writing workshops with Eric Weiner: https://www.himalayanwritersworkshop.com/discovering-a-sense-of-place
🌐 World Database of Happiness: https://worlddatabaseofhappiness.eur.nl/
About the Guest:
Eric Weiner is an award-winning journalist and New York Times bestselling author who has spent decades exploring the intersection of place, culture, and human happiness. His book "The Geography of Bliss" has been adapted into a Peacock docu-series and continues to influence how we think about joy across cultures. A former NPR correspondent, Eric has traveled to some of the world's happiest—and unhappiest—places to uncover what truly makes life worth living. He leads writing workshops in Bhutan and brings both journalistic rigor and philosophical depth to his exploration of human flourishing.
What if the darkest moments of your life aren't sent to make you miserable, but to show you how to experience more joy in the face of tragedy?
Join Matt O'Neill and New York Times bestselling author Angie Kim as they explore the revolutionary concept that suffering can actually enhance your capacity for happiness. Through her gripping novel "Happiness Falls," Angie reveals how tragedy, uncertainty, and even crisis can become unexpected pathways to deeper joy and meaning.
This isn't your typical happiness advice. This is about understanding the relativity of happiness—why lottery winners and accident victims end up at the same happiness level, and how your baseline expectations shape everything you experience. You'll discover why comfort might be killing your joy, how adversity builds resilience, and the counterintuitive truth that wanting what you already have is the secret to lasting happiness.
Whether you're facing your own crisis or simply wondering why all your comforts haven't made you happier, this conversation will transform how you think about joy, suffering, and what it really means to live a fulfilled life.
0:00 Introduction
1:43 How tragedy inspired a happiness story
5:49 The mystery of always appearing happy
8:04 What people get wrong about happiness
11:21 The backpacking happiness experiment
14:15 The lottery winner vs. paralysis study
17:59 Why tragedy can make you more grateful
20:04 How early adversity builds resilience
21:05 Learning to live with uncertainty
25:07 When characters take on a life of their own
27:46 Protecting vs. building resilience in children
28:39 Finding joy in the midst of despair
30:48 The secret to lasting happiness
Resources Mentioned:
🌐 Angie Kim's website: https://angiekimbooks.com/
🌐 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/angie.kim.va
🌐 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angiekimask/
🌐 X: https://x.com/AngieKimWriter
🌐 Good Reads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40121959-miracle-creek
📚 Angie Kim's book: "Happiness Falls": https://a.co/d/5oWDDPI
📚 "The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle: https://a.co/d/daKQjTN
📖 The lottery winner vs. accident victim happiness study: https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2F0022-3514.36.8.917
About the Guest:
Angie Kim is a New York Times bestselling author whose novel "Happiness Falls" was named one of the best books of the year by Goodreads and has been featured in Time magazine. A former patent litigator turned novelist, Kim explores complex themes of identity, communication, and happiness through her compelling storytelling. Her work delves into the Korean-American experience and challenges conventional wisdom about what makes us truly happy. She brings both personal experience as a Korean immigrant and deep philosophical insight to her exploration of joy, suffering, and the human condition.
Do you ever feel like burning your whole life down just to escape the overwhelm?
You're not alone.
Join Matt O'Neill and Dr. Zoe Shaw as they shatter the myths around self-care and reveal the revolutionary 360-degree approach that will transform your life from the inside out. Dr. Shaw, a licensed psychotherapist, bestselling author, and busy mom of five, shares how one commitment—practicing self-care every single day for an entire year—completely changed everything.
This isn't about bubble baths and spa days. This is about survival. You'll discover why self-care is as essential as brushing your teeth, why discipline is actually self-care, and how small daily habits create massive life transformations.
Whether you're drowning in responsibilities, struggling with burnout, or simply feeling like you've lost yourself in the chaos of life, this episode offers the practical tools and mindset shifts you need to reclaim your energy, time, sanity, and life.
0:00 Introduction
1:27 The "I Got It" Syndrome That's Destroying Women
3:06 What Self-Care Really Is (and what it isn't)
5:13 Why You Can't Binge Self-care
6:50 The Powerful Declaration: "I Am Worthy to be Cared For"
8:24 Why Women Feel Pressured to Sacrifice Everything
12:06 How Men Can Better Support Their Partners
15:14 The Four Wheels of Self-care: Body, Mind, Soul, Emotions
19:02 Why Self-Care is Not Optional—It's Survival
21:21 How to Handle Days When You Don't Feel Like It
24:08 The Power of Brain Dumps and Mind Clearing
25:31 Overcoming Guilt about Self-care
27:16 Sometimes Being the Best Parent Means Saying No
Resources Mentioned:
📚 Dr. Zoe Shaw's book: "Stronger in the Difficult Places"
📚 "Get Over I Got It" by Elaine Fluker
🌐 Dr. Zoe Shaw's website: https://drzoeshaw.com
🌐 "Stronger in the Difficult Places" podcast by Dr. Zoe Shaw
About the Guest:
Dr. Zoe Shaw is a licensed psychotherapist, bestselling author, and mother of five who specializes in helping overwhelmed individuals reclaim their lives through intentional self-care. After experiencing severe burnout herself, she embarked on a year-long journey of daily self-care that completely transformed her life. She's the author of "Stronger in the Difficult Places" and hosts a podcast by the same name, helping people understand that self-care isn't selfish—it's essential for survival and thriving.
Your mind isn't broken–it's just been hijacked.
And while you can't always control the depression, anxiety, or mental chaos that crashes into your life, you can choose to fight back with weapons that actually work. The truth is, your brain will betray you. The real power comes from learning how to reclaim control and rebuild your mental fortress from the ground up.
Join Matt O'Neill as he sits down with author Issac Robledo to unpack the seven powerful thoughts that can rewire your mindset and help you live with greater intention. From focusing on the positive to embracing the present moment, you’ll walk away with practical strategies for cultivating lasting happiness and fulfillment.
Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your outlook on life. Tune in to learn how small shifts in perspective can lead to profound changes in your well-being and relationships.
Get ready to unlock the clarity you've been searching for and embark on your own Good Mood Revolution!
0:00 Intro
8:18 Surrounding Yourself With Uplifting People
10:42 Controlling What You Can, Not What You Can't
18:32 Practicing Gratitude For What You Have
22:35 Living In The Present Moment
27:34 Prioritizing Needs Over Wants
33:25 Final Thoughts On Overcoming Struggles
Resources Mentioned:
📚 "The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle
🌐 Issac Robledo's website: https://www.robledothoughts.com/
About the Guest
Issac Robledo is an internationally bestselling author and writing coach known for blending psychology, spirituality, and self-growth into powerful, accessible insights. With over 15 books and 250,000+ readers, his work draws from personal experience with depression and anxiety, helping others break through mental barriers and live more consciously.
What if life’s biggest challenges weren’t roadblocks, but invitations to grow stronger and feel more alive?
Learn how ancient Stoic wisdom can help you reframe adversity, build emotional strength, and find calm in the chaos. Discover why becoming a “thankaholic” might be the key to lasting joy and how preparing for hard times can actually make you happier.
Join Matt and guest William B. Irvine for this powerful episode of Good Mood Revolution, and unlock the tools to turn setbacks into breakthroughs.
0:00 Intro
5:26 Reframing Setbacks As Stoic Challenges
15:05 Biggest Cost Of Setbacks
20:22 Choosing Humor Over Victimhood
25:32 Equanimity As Life's Ultimate Goal
30:12 The Five Second Rule For Anger
35:33 Closing Thoughts And Resources
Resources Mentioned:
📚"The Stoic Challenge" by William B. Irvine
About the Guest
William B. Irvine is a philosopher, author, and retired professor who brings ancient wisdom into modern life. After earning his PhD from UCLA, he spent nearly four decades teaching philosophy at Wright State University. Rather than writing for academics, William speaks to everyday thinkers, curious minds seeking practical ways to navigate life’s challenges. Known for his deep commitment to Stoicism, he doesn’t just study the philosophy, he lives it, helping others build resilience, gratitude, and a grounded sense of purpose.
What if burnout and lack of production isn't a discipline problem, but a happiness problem?
Learn why happiness is the cause of success–not the result–and how to rewire your brain for joy and achievement.
Uncover the power of asking "platinum questions" to deepen connections and transform your interactions at work and home.
Ready to stop feeling drained and start feeling powerful again? Join Matt and guest Jackie Insinger for this game-changing episode of Good Mood Revolution and unlock your path to sustainable happiness and success.
0:00 Intro
7:34 Emotional Intelligence in Parent-Child Communication
11:07 Positive Psychology: Moving Beyond Normal
16:50 Transforming Schools Through Positive Psychology
20:35 Practical Optimism vs Toxic Positivity
30:10 Sparking Brilliance Through Meaningful Conversations
32:23 Two Simple Ways to Improve Your Week
Resources Mentioned:
📚 “Spark Brilliance” by Jackie Insinger:
📚 “Spark Brilliance for Educators” by Jackie Insinger
About the Guest
Jackie Insinger is a bestselling author, leadership strategist, and keynote speaker who combines positive psychology, neuroscience, and data-driven insights to help leaders and teams thrive. With degrees from Duke and Harvard, and certifications from MIT, she founded Spark Brilliance to transform workplace culture and performance. Jackie’s Platinum Leadership framework empowers leaders to unlock their unique strengths and build authentic connections that boost happiness and success. She’s worked with top companies like Nestle and Accenture, and her book Spark Brilliance has become a national bestseller. Known for her relatable and actionable approach, Jackie inspires lasting change with humor and heart.
Do you ever feel drained, burned out, and unenthusiastic toward life? It could be that your bucket is empty. Join Matt O’Neill and Carol McCloud, the creator of the powerful "bucket filling" philosophy, as they reveal how to fill your bucket, and feel like your happiest self again.
Discover why small, intentional actions, like being kind to a stranger, can create a ripple effect of positivity in your day. Carol shares heartfelt stories, practical strategies, and easy to follow advice that you can start using today to boost happiness and foster a more compassionate world.
Don’t miss this inspiring episode of The Good Mood Revolution. Tune in and learn how becoming a bucket-filler can change everything.
0:00 Intro
5:51 How An Empty Bucket Affects our Behavior
11:51 Apologizing and Giving Yourself Grace as a Parent
17:40 Powerful Bucket-Filling Moments and Mentors
23:18 Practical Ways To Be an Intentional Bucket Filler
28:15 Morning Routines to Fill Your Own Bucket
32:21 Final Words of Wisdom on Being a Bucket Filler
About the Guest
Carol McCloud is an influential educator and author best known for creating the "Bucket Filling" concept, which promotes kindness and emotional well-being. With over 20 years of experience as a teacher, counselor, and early childhood educator, she has dedicated her career to teaching children and adults how simple acts of kindness can improve happiness and relationships. Her bestselling book, Have You Filled a Bucket Today?, uses an easy-to-understand metaphor to encourage positive behavior and emotional intelligence. Carol’s work combines practical lessons with heartfelt inspiration, empowering individuals and communities to foster compassion, resilience, and generosity in everyday life.
Resources Mentioned:
🌐 Bucket Fillers 101 - Carol McCloud's official website: https://bucketfillers101.com/
📚 “Have You Filled a Bucket Today?” by Carol McCloud
📚 “Bucket Filling from A to Z” by Carol McCloud
📚 “Growing Up with a Bucket Full of Happiness” by Carol McCloud
Are you chasing happiness in all the wrong places? Prepare to have your world turned upside down as happiness researcher Sonja Lyubomirsky shatters common myths about what truly brings joy. Discover why external goals like wealth, marriage, and career success often fall short, and learn powerful strategies to cultivate lasting happiness from within.
Join Matt and Sonja as they explore groundbreaking research on the science of happiness, including the surprising truth about cosmetic surgery, the power of micro-connections, and how to find fulfillment in any job. You'll walk away with practical tips to boost your mood instantly and a fresh perspective on what really matters for a joyful life.
Don't let another day slip by chasing elusive happiness. Tune in to this transformative episode and unlock the secrets to genuine well-being that have been within you all along!
0:00 Intro
5:52 The Surprising Truth About Cosmetic Surgery
10:42 Single vs. Married: Happiness Across Relationships
14:21 Finding Fulfillment in Your Career
20:57 Letting Go of Childhood Dreams
24:34 The Power of a 15-Minute Conversation
27:20 Practicing Gratitude in Daily Life
29:28 Closing Thoughts and Future Projects
About the Guest
Sonja Lyubomirsky is a leading researcher in the field of positive psychology, best known for her groundbreaking work on the science of happiness. As a professor at the University of California, Riverside, and the author of bestselling books like The How of Happiness, she has dedicated her career to understanding what truly makes people happy and how they can sustain it. Her research emphasizes the power of intentional activities, such as practicing gratitude and kindness, to significantly boost well-being. Sonja’s work bridges rigorous science and practical application, offering people evidence-based strategies to lead more fulfilling lives.
Resources Mentioned:
🌐 Sonja Lyobomirsky’s website: www.sonjalyubomirsky.com
📚 “The How of Happiness” by Sonja Lyubomirsky
📚 “The Myths of Happiness” by Sonja Lyubomirsky
📚 “So Good They Can't Ignore You” by Cal Newport
📚 “How to Feel Loved” upcoming book by Sonja Lyubomirsky and Harry Reiss
Is the ability to stay calm and connected sexy in today's overstimulated world? Are you struggling to find your center in the chaos? Discover the ancient wisdom of Stoicism that's making a modern comeback.
Join host Matt O'Neill and special guest Sharon Lebell, bestselling author of "The Art of Living," as they explore how Stoicism can be your grounding light amidst the storm of life's challenges.
Uncover powerful Stoic principles like the dichotomy of control and the importance of virtue that can transform your outlook on life. From dealing with health crises to finding meaning in unexpected places, this episode offers practical wisdom for navigating life's ups and downs with grace and resilience.
Ready to revolutionize your approach to happiness and fulfillment? Tune in to discover how ancient Stoic teachings can help you master your mind, embrace your duties, and live a life of purpose in the 21st century.
0:00 Introduction
1:37 Origins of Sharon's interest in Stoicism
4:41 Ancient wisdom for modern happiness
7:22 Redefining Stoicism as a path to serenity
13:03 Applying the dichotomy of control in life
17:20 The moral lens of Stoicism
20:35 Duty and responsibility in relationships
24:12 Finding meaning through fulfilling duties
28:11 Answering life's quiet callings
30:50 Waking up from trance-like living
32:52 Committing to depth and kindness
34:44 Sharon's books and upcoming projects
About the Guest
Sharon Lebell is a pioneering figure in the modern Stoic revolution and one of the "founding mothers" of Stoicism. Her international bestseller, "The Art of Living," has sold hundreds of thousands of copies and has been a cornerstone of Stoic literature for over 25 years. With a background in philosophy and a passion for making ancient wisdom accessible to modern audiences, Sharon has dedicated her life to helping people apply Stoic principles to their daily lives.
Resources Mentioned:
📚 "The Art of Living" by Sharon Lebell
📚 "The Music of Silence" by Sharon Lebell
📚 "Naming Ourselves, Naming Our Children" by Sharon Lebell
What if the key to raising happier kids was actually the secret to becoming happier yourself?
Discover the ingredients of happiness with Nadim Saad, author of "The Happy, Confident Me" and founder of the Happy Confident Company. Learn how to foster better connections, manage emotions, and create a positive family dynamic that benefits both parents and children.
Join Matt and Nadim as they explore practical strategies for cultivating happiness, from understanding your feelings to reframing negative thoughts. Uncover the power of introspection, gratitude, and compassion in transforming your family's emotional landscape.
Whether you're a parent looking to raise confident children or an individual seeking personal growth, this episode will equip you to create a happier, more fulfilling life.
0:00 Introduction
5:42 Connection to self: The foundation of happiness
11:31 Reframing thoughts to change feelings
17:35 The power of feeling safe, loved, and valued
24:04 Embracing vulnerability and shared human experiences
28:23 Optimism and gratitude as happiness ingredients
32:10 Practical tools for cultivating happiness in families
35:06 Fostering emotional intelligence in parent-child relationships
36:31 Five key takeaways for a happier life
About the Guest
Nadim Saad is the author of "The Happy, Confident Me" and founder of the Happy Confident company. His work and tools are helping children learn the ingredients of happiness at schools worldwide. Nadim has spoken on raising happy, confident children at companies like Google and JP Morgan, and is dedicated to transforming family dynamics through positive parenting techniques and emotional intelligence education.
Resources Mentioned:
📚 "The Happy, Confident Me" by Nadim Saad
📚 Feel it Cards: https://www.happyconfident.com/shop/educational-games/
📚 Happy Confident Me Journal
🌐 Love and Logic parenting method: https://www.loveandlogic.com/
🌐 The Happy Confident Company: https://www.happyconfident.com
🌐 Happy Confident Club: https://lp.happyconfident.com/
What if your therapist is actually keeping you depressed?
Prepare to have your mind blown as Dr. David Burns, one of the godfathers of mental health, exposes the shocking truth about why traditional talk therapy often fails. Discover how to break free from treatments that don't work and take control of your happiness with powerful, scientifically-proven techniques.
Join us for a revolutionary conversation that challenges everything you thought you knew about therapy and mental health. Learn why positive thinking might be hurting you, how to overcome anxiety in record time, and the secret to transforming your mood in just hours.
Don't miss this game-changing episode that could be the key to unlocking your happiest life yet!
0:00 Introduction
5:54 Curing depression in just a few hours
12:29 Effectiveness of books and AI in treatment
16:06 The importance of empathy in therapy
21:15 A simple yet powerful tool for self-help
27:48 Personal experience with cognitive restructuring
31:36 Common mental distortions in different emotions
36:20 Key takeaways from Dr. Burns' insights
About the Guest
Dr. David Burns is a Stanford professor of psychiatry, best-selling author, and one of the most influential figures in the history of mental health. His groundbreaking books, including "Feeling Good" and "Feeling Great," have sold over 5 million copies worldwide. Dr. Burns has personally trained more than 50,000 therapists and pioneered innovative approaches to conquering depression and anxiety without medication.
Resources Mentioned:
📚"Feeling Good" by Dr. David Burns
📚"Feeling Great" by Dr. David Burns
📚"Tools Not Schools of Therapy" by Dr. David Burns
🌐https://feelinggood.com
🌐https://feelinggreat.com
🌐Feeling Good podcast
Are you trying to be a superhero…and burning out in the process?
The truth is, self-sacrifice is NOT the key to being a good person. And it might actually be hurting everyone around you!
Dr. Chris Germer, a leading expert on self-compassion, joins Matt to expose the lie that giving everything makes you noble.
Learn practical strategies to break free from burnout, set healthy boundaries, and cultivate true compassion that starts with yourself. Whether you're a busy parent, caregiver, or anyone feeling stretched too thin, this episode offers transformative insights to help you thrive.
Tune in to revolutionize the way you care for others - and most importantly YOU!
0:00 Introduction
1:29 The lie of self-sacrifice hurts everyone
4:59 Balancing family responsibilities and self-care
8:18 Three components of self-compassion
13:43 Stress physiology and self-criticism
16:49 Recognizing early signs of burnout
22:52 Practical ways to start self-compassion
27:41 Simple daily practices for self-care
31:06 Letting go of superhuman expectations
33:49 Key takeaways and closing thoughts
Resources Mentioned:
📚Mindful Self-Compassion workbook by Dr. Chris Germer
📚Mindful Self-Compassion for Burnout by Dr. Chris Germer
🌐Website: https://chrisgermer.org
🌐Center for Mindful Self Compassion: https://centerformsc.org
🌐Kristin Neff's website: https://self-compassion.org
About the Guest
Dr. Chris Germer is a clinical psychologist and lecturer on psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. He is a pioneer in the integration of mindfulness and psychotherapy and co-developed the Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) program. Dr. Germer is the author of several books, including the bestselling "The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook," which has garnered over 4,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.
What if losing something you hold dear could actually lead you to a deeper sense of gratitude and self-acceptance?
Laura Bratton's journey from facing blindness as a teenager to finding joy and purpose offers profound insights into resilience and transformation. This episode will equip you with practical strategies to navigate life's inevitable challenges, emphasizing the power of gratitude, the importance of a supportive network, and the strength found in self-compassion.
Join us to explore how adversity can become a catalyst for growth and fulfillment.
0:00 Introduction
5:57 Denial and the struggle to accept change
12:11 The importance of a supportive network
16:24 Finding gratitude in unexpected places
22:03 Spiritual growth through adversity
25:40 A transformative experience as a hospital chaplain
31:32 Advice to her younger self
33:16 Guidance for those facing difficult struggles
35:26 The power of sharing stories of resilience
Resources Mentioned:
🌐Laura Bratton's website: https://laurabratton.com/
About the Guest
Laura Bratton is an inspirational speaker, author, and coach who lost her vision as a teenager. She now helps others navigate loss and change, finding purpose and joy even in life's most challenging circumstances. Laura's unique perspective as a former hospital chaplain and her personal journey with vision loss allow her to connect deeply with those facing adversity.
Are you chasing perfection…only to watch everything crumble?
Join Matt and bestselling author Katherine Center as they reveal the paradox that our greatest failures and darkest moments often become the catalysts for true happiness.
Katherine reveals her personal journey of studying happiness and how it has influenced her writing. From line dancing classes to pickleball adventures, explore how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to unexpected moments of connection and growth.
Join us for practical wisdom about creating a "culture of appreciation" in relationships and why looking for small moments of joy—even on our worst days—can revolutionize our lives.
0:00 Introduction
1:27 Helen's journey from perfection to happiness
6:50 Finding wisdom through life's challenges
11:42 Stories as virtual reality for human experiences
15:37 Embracing vulnerability in social connections
19:28 How characters change: Plot as catalyst
23:24 Keys to living a happier life
27:42 Creating a culture of appreciation in relationships
31:29 The Bodyguard: Writing joy during dark times
Resources Mentioned:
📚 "Happiness for Beginners" by Katherine Center
📚 "The Bodyguard" by Katherine Center
🌐 John and Julie Gottman's relationship research: https://www.gottman.com/
About the Guest
Katherine Center is a New York Times bestselling author known for her heartwarming and transformative stories. Her novel "Happiness for Beginners" was adapted into a popular Netflix movie, and her book "The Bodyguard" has received widespread acclaim with over 29,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. Katherine's writing focuses on characters who find wisdom and growth through life's challenges, inspiring readers to embrace joy and resilience in their own lives.
What if everything therapists have told you about saving your marriage is completely backwards?
Join Matt and Dr. Bruce Chalmer as they challenge everything you thought you knew about relationships and take a deep dive into what it really takes to cultivate genuine intimacy, stability, and the kind of authentic connection that carries couples through life's most brutal storms.
You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of why communication might not be the real problem, how stability can sometimes work against you, and overcoming infidelity.
Dr. Chalmer's counterintuitive approach isn’t what you’ll find in typical relationship advice books. Whether you're navigating serious betrayal or simply feeling disconnected, this conversation offers the kind of revolutionary perspective that can transform your relationship pain into power.
0:00 Introduction
5:42 Forgiveness as an inside job
11:15 Communication isn't the core issue
16:19 Kindness, faith, and not panicking
21:47 The importance of kindness in relationships
27:15 Why great sex lives are uncommon
31:42 Betrayal can lead to relationship growth
33:53 First steps after discovering betrayal
36:50 Key takeaways on marriage and relationships
Resources Mentioned:
📚Dr. Bruce Chalmer's books:
"Reigniting the Spark: Why Stable Couples Lose Intimacy and How to Get It Back"
"It's Not About Communication: Why Everything You Know About Couples Therapy Is Wrong"
🌐Dr. Bruce Chalmer's website:
"Couples Therapy in Seven Words" podcast by Dr. Bruce Chalmer and Judy Alexander:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/couples-therapy-in-seven-words/id1517231158
About the Guest:
Dr. Bruce Chalmer is a psychologist and couples therapist with over 30 years of experience helping couples navigate the complexities of relationships. He is the author of multiple books challenging conventional wisdom about marriage and therapy, including "It's Not About Communication: Why Everything You Know About Couples Therapy Is Wrong." Dr. Chalmer co-hosts the "Couples Therapy in Seven Words" podcast and offers coaching services to help couples reignite intimacy and overcome challenges in their relationships.
Resilience isn’t something you’re born with — it’s forged in fire. And while we don’t get to choose the life events that test us, we can choose how we rise from them. The truth is, life will hand you hardships. The real power comes from learning how to use those moments to grow stronger, wiser, and more unstoppable.
In this inspiring episode, Caraline Hickman opens up about her journey from childhood neglect to building a successful life — only to have it shattered in an instant by a devastating hit-and-run. What happened next is nothing short of remarkable.
Join Matt and Caraline as they dive deep into what it really takes to cultivate resilience, grit, and the kind of inner strength that carries you through life’s most brutal storms. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of how to face your own challenges with courage — and turn your pain into power.
0:00 Introduction
1:52 Resilience: A learned skill, not innate
6:26 Childhood trauma and its lasting impact
9:08 Chasing success to feel worthy of love
15:30 Life-altering accident on a perfect day
21:19 Finding strength through losing everything
27:56 Discovering inner resilience after trauma
31:18 The importance of sharing our burdens
34:50 Turning hardship into a beautiful adventure
Resources Mentioned:
https://caralinesadventure.com/
Instagram: @Caralinesadventure
https://www.instagram.com/caralinesadventure
Caraline's Adventure podcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/caralines-adventure-incredible-true-stories-of/id1737493735
📚 "Always Looking Up" by Michael J. Fox
About the Guest
Caraline Hickman is the host of Caraline's Adventure podcast and a resilience expert who has overcome childhood neglect, abuse, and a life-altering accident. Through her journey, she's discovered the power of perseverance and the importance of sharing one's story to inspire others. Caraline's mission is to help people find the gifts hidden within their greatest challenges and live life as an extraordinary adventure.