In this episode, Peter Mallouk sits down with Shawn Achor to explore what truly makes a happier, more meaningful life. They discuss why pursuing happiness isn’t selfish, how “happiness anxiety” holds many people back and why social connection is the strongest predictor of long-term well-being. They also touch on how money and success fit into a happy life. Through research, stories and practical habits, Shawn and Peter share ways to build more joy, gratitude and meaning in everyday life.

(00:04) Introduction

(00:20) From Divinity school to happiness research

(06:07) How happiness anxiety robs us and others of joy

(09:16) How extremes of optimism and pessimism lead to decision paralysis

(10:34) Why social support and connection are key to happiness

(13:27) How small happiness habits can reduce loneliness

(16:03) How to practice gratitude and build social connections

(22:39) Why practicing gratitude improves happiness

(31:01) How lack of social connections increase depression

(37:47) What we get wrong about happiness

(42:55) Why comparison is the thief of joy

(52:44) How small habits change systems

RESOURCES

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Signal or Noise

Down the Middle

Peter sits down with economist, author and Wharton School professor Jeremy Siegel for a candid conversation on the economic forces impacting Americans today. Siegel’s rigorous research and data-driven insights have long been influential in shaping investment strategies, explaining market behavior and understanding the impact of inflation on investment returns. When Siegel talks, investors pay attention.

00:00 Introduction

04:02 Why Jeremy argues stocks are the most stable asset class in the long term

07:40 What bonds can be good hedges against

09:16 The market, COVID-19 and the government’s response

15:00 Why more than one-third of Americans are priced out of the housing market

15:40 How deficit spending impacts the American economy

21:10 Siegel’s take on the biggest threats to the American economy

26:27 Trump’s tariffs and their impact on the economy

34:53 Cryptocurrency and how it could change the U.S. payment system

38:55 The shift toward private markets and equity

40:17 Siegel’s take on what makes Americans exceptional

RESOURCES

Follow Peter on his social media accounts: X | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Follow Creative Planning’s social media accounts: X | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook