JOIE de VIVRE with Susan Nolan

What can we learn from Scandinavian countries about living well? In this episode, Susan explores the balance between happiness, social connection, trust, community, and the structures that support quality of life, while reflecting on what these ideas might look like in our own lives. Join us as we consider whether greater happiness comes from having more—or from creating the conditions that allow us to connect, contribute, savor, and live with greater intention.

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Today’s episode explores the Happiness Museum in Copenhagen and Susan’s curiosity about how happiness can be understood, explored, and experienced across cultures. From the science and research behind happiness to the importance of community, relationships, purpose, and the everyday choices that shape our well-being, we take a closer look at what it really means to live a happy life. Join us as we move beyond the idea of happiness as a destination and discover the many dimensions that can help us flourish.

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Today’s episode takes us to Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, a remarkable example of how thoughtfully designed spaces can contribute to quality of life and everyday joy. Susan reflects on the gardens, hospitality, cleanliness, accessibility, beauty, and attention to detail that make Tivoli more than an amusement park—it becomes an experience designed around how people feel. Join us as we consider what we can learn from Tivoli about creating environments that invite connection, delight, and a richer experience of life.

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Today’s episode explores the idea of recalculation — stepping back to realign priorities, restore perspective, and reconnect with what matters most. Susan discusses the value of pausing, reassessing routines, and allowing ourselves the grace to make adjustments along the journey. Join us as we reflect on how small shifts can help us move forward with greater clarity and purpose.

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Today’s episode invites us to consider the importance of creating spaces and moments that bring comfort, peace, and joy. Susan explores how our environments, routines, and personal experiences can become places of restoration when life feels demanding. Join us as we discover simple ways to cultivate a personal refuge that nourishes the mind and spirit.

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Today’s episode examines our relationship with rest and the often-overlooked importance of slowing down. Susan discusses the value of naps, healthy sleep habits, and creating moments of restoration in a culture that frequently rewards constant productivity. Join us as we consider how intentional rest can renew energy, improve well-being, and support a more balanced life.

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Today’s episode explores our desire for peace and the many ways we search for it in everyday life. Susan reflects on lessons inspired by monks and practices that encourage slowing down, simplifying, and creating space for stillness amid life’s noise. Join us as we discover how peace is not always found somewhere outside ourselves, but often cultivated from within.

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Today’s episode explores the powerful concept of be-longing — not only as a word, but as two meaningful ideas: beingand longing. Susan reflects on how our need for connection and belonging influences our emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being. Join us as we examine why belonging impacts the mind, body, and spirit, and why this fundamental human need deserves our attention.

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In this reflective episode, Susan challenges the cultural obsession with accumulation and asks the essential question: how much is enough? From personal stories—including her own celebration of life at 80—to timeless lessons on fulfillment, she explores the difference between needs and wants, and how gratitude, boundaries, and presence can help us feel whole. With thoughtful practices and even a poem on “enough,” this conversation invites listeners to pause, reset, and find satisfaction in the richness of now.

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In this episode, Susan reframes the conversation around productivity, shifting focus from time management to the more powerful practice of energy management. Through reflections on toxic relationships, sticky thoughts, and the pressure of hustle culture, she highlights how reclaiming boundaries and prioritizing self-care can restore vitality and balance. With practical tools—from scheduling “me time” to identifying energy lifters—you’ll discover how to protect your well-being, thrive beyond survival mode, and create a life worth living.

Join our journey to joyful living! Visit BeABonVivant.com for more inspiration and community connections. Don’t miss out—subscribe and thrive with us!