The recent World Happiness Report highlights a striking link between social trust and voting preferences, revealing that individuals with low social trust are more prone to supporting right-wing political parties.

In this episode, I dive into this fascinating finding, which highlights how our personal dissatisfaction with life often translates into political choices that can influence societal outcomes.

It’s a wake-up call for all of us to reflect on our role in fostering social connections and trust within our communities. Despite our natural pessimism about kindness, studies show that people generally underestimate the empathy and support available around them.

We have the power to change this narrative—by actively nurturing trust and connection, we can improve not only our own well-being but also the fabric of our society.

Takeaways:

• The World Happiness Report indicates that low social trust correlates with voting for right-wing parties.
• Individuals with lower satisfaction in life tend to reject traditional political systems and seek alternatives.
• Social connection is vital for our happiness, health, and longevity, and we must prioritise it.
• Many young adults feel they lack social support, often underestimating the kindness of others around them.
• Our perceptions of others' empathy significantly influence our willingness to connect and engage socially.
• Rebuilding social trust requires individual responsibility in recognising the goodness in others and fostering connections.

Links:

World Happiness Report 2025

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Amie McNee joins me in the studio to share her insights on the transformative power of creativity and the importance of claiming your artistic voice. Her new book, "We Need Your Art", is a rallying cry for those who feel they aren't "real" artists and encourages everyone to embrace their creative impulses.

Amie passionately argues that art is not just for the privileged few; it's an essential part of the human experience that everyone can and should engage in. Throughout our conversation, we delve into how creativity can heal both individuals and communities, and the vital role it plays in our overall well-being. If you’ve ever hesitated to share your art or doubted your creativity, this episode is a must-listen for you—because trust us, we need your art!

Takeaways:

• Everyone should embrace their creativity and express themselves artistically, regardless of their perceived talent.
• Art is not merely a hobby but a vital part of the human experience that fosters connection and change.
• The act of creating can be a powerful tool for personal healing and community building, challenging societal norms that dismiss its importance.
• Overcoming perfectionism and sharing 'shitty art' can help individuals reclaim their creative power and confidence in their abilities.

Connect with Amie:

www.amiemcnee.com

https://amiemcnee.substack.com/

Connect with Cass:

email: [email protected]

www.crappytohappypod.com or www.cassdunn.com

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Today, I'm celebrating a huge milestone: 100 days alcohol-free! It feels amazing, and I want to share my journey with you—from the challenges to the triumphs. I also dive deep into the reasons behind my decision, including some personal revelations about ADHD and how it has shaped my relationship with alcohol. It’s not just about quitting drinking but understanding why we turn to these habits in the first place.

Plus, I’m inviting you to complete a listener survey to help us grow and improve the show. (I'm willing to bribe you. I have no shame. Tune in to hear more.)

Takeaways:

• Achieving 100 days alcohol-free is a significant milestone that leads to amazing personal growth.
• It's important to reflect on moments when quitting feels easy and to cherish that success.
• Recognising the role of ADHD in alcohol consumption can help in understanding personal habits.
• Subscribing to the paid version of the podcast offers exclusive content to enhance your well-being journey.

Upgrade to Paid: https://cassdunn.substack.com

(or subscribe via the Apple Podcasts or Spotify app)

Connect with Cass

[email protected]

www.crappytohappypod.com

www.cassdunn.com

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Dr. Michelle McQuaid joins me in this episode to dive deep into the concept of "good girl conditioning" and how it impacts women's mental health and well-being. We explore the societal expectations that shape our beliefs from a young age, often leading to exhaustion and a sense of emptiness, despite achieving external markers of success.

Dr. McQuaid shares her personal journey of discovering these patterns and the research that highlights how they manifest in our lives, particularly for women. Together, we discuss practical strategies for breaking free from these constraints.

This conversation is not just enlightening; it’s a call to action for all of us to step into our authentic selves and support each other in that journey.

Connect with Chelle:

www.thegoodgirlgamechangers.com

www.michellemcquaid.com

Connect with Cass:

Email: [email protected]

www.crappytohappypod.com

www.cassdunn.com

Join our community and subscribe to Beyond Happy:

https://cassdunn.substack.com

2025 Cassandra Dunn

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This week, we're diving into parts work, with an introduction to Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and how you can apply it as a tool for self-healing.

We'll explore how recognising and connecting with different parts of yourself - like your inner child or your inner perfectionist - can lead to greater self-awareness, self-compassion and personal growth. The episode highlights the importance of curiosity and kindness as you navigate your emotional landscape, encouraging you to accept all the parts of you.

Takeaways:

• Understanding Internal Family Systems therapy can help us connect with different parts of ourselves.
• Parts work encourages self-compassion by acknowledging the motivations behind our behaviours and emotions.
• Embracing our wounded parts allows for healing and a healthier relationship with our inner selves.

Connect with Cass:

Email: [email protected]

www.crappytohappypod.com

Substack

https://cassdunn.substack.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Your input is valuable!

I would love to get your honest feedback about the show so that I can keep making it better. I've created a short survey and in return for your time, I'd be happy to gift you a 1-month free subscription to the Beyond Happy private podcast.

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Announcing the launch of my new paid subscriber version of Crappy to Happy, called Beyond Happy, kicking off next week!

This isn't just more Crappy to Happy; it’s also an opportunity to dive deeper into personal growth and happiness with exclusive content, tools, resources and a vibrant community.

Apple listeners, your options for subscribing are:

• Subscribe directly in the App OR or if you prefer to engage more fully in the community
• Subscribe at https://cassdunn.substack.com

Spotify listeners, subscribe in Spotify and automatically gain access to Substack benefits.

Don't miss the 30-day happiness challenge: Daily podcasts to enhance your mood, mind and motivation, starting next Monday 24th February.

If you’re ready to take your journey from Crappy to Happy to the next level, join the community and get ready to go beyond.

Where to find Beyond Happy

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Substack (private RSS feed for Apple, Spotify and any other podcast app)

Contact: [email protected]

https://www.crappytohappypod.com

https://cassdunn.substack.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Your input is valuable!

I would love to get your honest feedback about the show so that I can keep making it better. I've created a short survey and in return for your time, I'd be happy to gift you a 1-month free subscription to the Beyond Happy private podcast.

Survey

Announcing the launch of my new paid subscriber version of Crappy to Happy, called Beyond Happy, kicking off next week!

This isn't just more Crappy to Happy; it’s also an opportunity to dive deeper into personal growth and happiness with exclusive content, tools, resources and a vibrant community.

If you're listening on Apple Podcasts, tune in to hear your options for subscribing - whether you only want to listen (subscribe in the App) or if you prefer to engage more fully in the community (subscribe at www.cassdunn.substack.com)

Don't miss the 30-day happiness challenge: Daily podcasts to enhance your mood, mind and motivation, starting next Monday 24th February.

If you’re ready to take your journey from Crappy to Happy to the next level, join the community and get ready to go beyond.

Where to find Beyond Happy

Apple Podcasts (included in Crappy to Happy feed for paid subscribers)

My Substack (private RSS feed for Apple, Spotify and any other app)

Listen on Spotify

Contact: [email protected]

https://www.crappytohappypod.com

https://cassdunn.substack.com

This episode encourages listeners to carve out time for activities that bring them joy without the pressure of achieving specific goals or outcomes. Cass shares insights into the importance of finding a passion project, i.e. engaging in creative outlets or hobbies that allow for personal expression and fulfilment.

By reconnecting with activities that light you up, you not only enhance your own mental health but also bring a more vibrant energy to your relationships with others. It's time to reclaim some of your own time and explore what truly makes you happy.

Takeaways:

• Finding a passion project can bring you joy and enhance your mental well-being.
• Carving out time for yourself is essential for personal happiness and fulfilment.
• Engaging in creative activities helps build resilience and reduces stress in your life.
• It's never too late to explore interests you once loved or always wanted to pursue.
• Pursuing something purely for fun can invigorate your spirit and refresh your energy.
• Investing time in a passion project allows you to reconnect with your identity and interests.

Connect with Cass:



www.crappytohappypod.com

[email protected] 

www.instagram.com/crappytohappypod

www.tiktok.com/crappytohappypod

Join the free 7-day Happiness Challenge:

www.cassdunn.com/happiness

Mentioned in this episode:

Your input is valuable!

I would love to get your honest feedback about the show so that I can keep making it better. I've created a short survey and in return for your time, I'd be happy to gift you a 1-month free subscription to the Beyond Happy private podcast.

Survey

Cass is joined by Alexis Fernandez-Preiksa, a neuroscientist, best-selling author and host of the incredibly popular "Do You F*cking Mind?" podcast.

The conversation explores how Alexis discovered her love for cognitive neuroscience and how she uses her knowledge to optimise her own health, happiness and success. She urges listeners to conduct an inventory of what they identify with to foster flexibility and resilience in their lives. She argues that rigid identities can limit personal growth. Through her tough-love approach, Alexis encourages individuals to embrace their evolving selves and to question the labels they assign to their personas.

She discusses the concept of self-critique versus self-criticism, advocating for a more constructive approach to personal evaluation. This shift allows you to recognise self-limiting behaviours without engaging in harmful negative self-talk.

Cass & Alexis discuss the importance of agency in mental health, encouraging listeners to take control of their thoughts and actions, thereby transforming their experiences of discomfort into opportunities for growth.

Alexis offers practical advice on setting realistic goals, stressing that everyone has the capacity to change and grow, regardless of their starting point, and that recognising one’s ability to influence their own thoughts and behaviours is crucial for fostering a positive relationship with yourself.

This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to understand the dynamics of their mind better and to cultivate a happier, more fulfilling life.

Takeaways:

• Alexis discusses how her journey from aspiring actress to neuroscientist shaped her perspective on personal growth.
• The importance of setting realistic goals and starting small to build self-trust.
• Identifying with too many labels can limit personal growth; flexibility in identity is crucial.
• Self-critique should focus on behaviours rather than personal attacks to foster improvement.
• A healthy relationship with yourself is foundational to engaging in fulfilling romantic relationships.
• Embracing discomfort is necessary for growth; it’s about choosing the right kind of discomfort.

Connect with Alexis:

www.dyfmpod.com

https://www.instagram.com/doyoufckingmind/

Connect with Cass:



www.crappytohappypod.com

[email protected] 

www.instagram.com/crappytohappypod

www.tiktok.com/crappytohappypod

Join the free 7-day Happiness Challenge:

www.cassdunn.com/happiness

Watch this episode on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrappytoHappy

Mentioned in this episode:

Your input is valuable!

I would love to get your honest feedback about the show so that I can keep making it better. I've created a short survey and in return for your time, I'd be happy to gift you a 1-month free subscription to the Beyond Happy private podcast.

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As the new year unfolds, it brings a fresh opportunity to reflect on what will truly make you happy. This episode of Crappy to Happy offers a guiding light for anyone looking to set meaningful goals in 2025 and give yourself the best chance of achieving them.

Cass shares how her personal experience with ADHD has prompted a shift in her goal-setting strategies. Rather than allowing the diagnosis to frame her identity, she embraces it as a catalyst for change, using it to inform her approach to planning and productivity. This refreshing outlook encourages listeners to view their own challenges as potential stepping stones towards personal growth.

The episode dives deep into the art of goal-setting, urging you to move beyond generic aspirations to create specific, meaningful objectives. Cass emphasises the critical importance of understanding the emotional underpinnings of goals—why they matter and how they impact overall well-being. This insight not only enhances motivation but also fosters a deeper connection to your aspirations.

Cass highlights the value of accountability, suggesting that your goals should be tangible and regularly revisited to ensure that you stay on track and avoid being derailed by unproductive busyness.

She shares practical tips for breaking down yearly objectives into quarterly targets, making the journey feel less overwhelming and more achievable. This episode is your invitation to reflect, plan, and take proactive steps towards having your best year ever, knowing you have the power to shape your path in 2025.

Takeaways:

• January is a great time for reflection and planning, setting clear and specific goals.
• Consider what you truly want to achieve in the next 12 months and write it down.
• Regularly review your progress and adjust your goals based on feedback and experience.
• Break your 12-month goals down into 90-day milestones to maintain focus and urgency.
• Identify measurable metrics to track your progress toward your goals effectively.
• Create a system or habit that supports your goals, ensuring you prioritise what matters.

Connect with Cass:



www.crappytohappypod.com

[email protected] 

www.instagram.com/crappytohappypod

www.tiktok.com/crappytohappypod

Join the free 7-day Happiness Challenge:

www.cassdunn.com/happiness

Mentioned in this episode:

Your input is valuable!

I would love to get your honest feedback about the show so that I can keep making it better. I've created a short survey and in return for your time, I'd be happy to gift you a 1-month free subscription to the Beyond Happy private podcast.

Survey