Dr. Elia Gourgouris—known as America’s Happiness Doctor—is a positive psychology expert, executive coach, and bestselling author of Seven Paths to Lasting Happiness. Through his books, keynotes, and coaching, Dr. Elia has helped hundreds of thousands of people achieve happiness and success in their personal and professional lives. He’s also the founder of The Kindness Factor International, a movement and soon-to-be film inspiring global acts of kindness.

On this episode we talk about:

Dr. Elia’s journey from driving a taxi to pay for college to becoming a leading happiness expert

The difference between being “nice” and being truly kind—and why kindness is a superpower for happiness

How money relates to happiness: the threshold effect, survival mode, and why abundance is about mindset, not just bank balance

Unlearning limiting beliefs about money and success, especially for those with religious or cultural programming

The power of gratitude in adversity and why self-forgiveness is a cornerstone of lasting happiness

Practical exercises for self-forgiveness and breaking free from the weight of past mistakes

How internal self-talk shapes identity and why treating yourself with compassion changes everything

The dangers of scarcity thinking—even for those who “have enough”—and how to cultivate abundance and peace

Dr. Elia’s upcoming film project on kindness and his mission to inspire a global movement

Top 3 Takeaways

Money Buys Freedom, Not Happiness: Once your basic needs are met, more money doesn’t make you happier—happiness is an inside job, built on gratitude, kindness, and self-acceptance.

Self-Forgiveness Sets You Free: Carrying guilt and self-criticism is like wearing a backpack full of rocks. Forgiveness—especially for yourself—is the key to emotional freedom and lasting happiness.

Don’t Procrastinate Your Happiness: Stop waiting for the next milestone to be happy. Life is precious—choose happiness and kindness now, not “when” you achieve something.

Notable Quotes

“Money is not the enemy. Money equals freedom—not the love of money, but money itself is necessary in this world.”

“Happiness is a choice, but it’s also a skill set.”

“Forgiveness is freedom. The ultimate act of self-compassion is to forgive ourselves.”

Connect with Dr. Elia Gourgouris:

Website: https://www.dreliagourgouris.com/

🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency.

🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform.

🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices