Realistic Happiness

Realistic Happiness

By Daisy Ilaria | Podsterdam Studio ProductionEducationSelf-Improvement
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Realistic Happiness episodes

  • Luigi Zottoli: Why Seeking Discomfort Is the Key to Happiness

    In this episode of Realistic Happiness, we’re joined by Luigi, founder of the wellness community Chillsnsip, to uncover the transformative benefits of cold exposure therapy and the power of meaningful social connections for improving mental health and managing stress.

    We discuss:
    - The Science and Benefits of Cold Exposure: Discover how cold water immersion boosts mental resilience, improves stress management, enhances circulation, and supports better sleep, immunity, and recovery.
    - Overcoming Fear and Building Mental Strength: Learn how embracing discomfort through activities like cold plunges reduces anxiety, builds confidence, and encourages personal growth.
    - Social Wellness Communities for Professionals: Explore how Chillsnsip merges ice baths, yoga, and breathwork with opportunities to form supportive friendships and create lasting habits.
    - Breaking Bad Habits and Building Healthy Routines: See how shared experiences can help you replace unhealthy behaviors with positive habits and better self-discipline.
    - How to Start Your Cold Exposure Journey: Get practical tips for trying cold showers and safely transitioning to ice baths.
    If you’re looking for effective ways to reduce stress, enhance your mental clarity, and connect with like-minded individuals, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration. Discover how cold exposure therapy can transform your work-life balance, mental well-being, and happiness.
    Connect with Luigi:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chillsnsip/
    Website: https://www.chillsnsip.com/community
    Retreat: https://www.chillsnsip.com/social-wellness-retreat
    Connect with Us:
    LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappiness
    Daisy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/
    Jamie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/

    50 min
  • Paula Torraco: Stop Living on Autopilot: Discover Human Design

    In this episode of Realistic Happiness, we’re joined by Paula Torraco, a Human Design Coach dedicated to helping individuals unlock their unique potential through the transformative power of Human Design. With experience in both corporate and personal coaching, Paula bridges the gap between ancient wisdom and modern science to guide leaders and teams toward alignment and fulfillment.


    We discuss:

    - What is Human Design? Learn how this system combines elements of astrology, chakras, quantum physics, and more to create a unique blueprint for understanding yourself and your energy.

    - Discovering Your Energy Type: Understand the five Human Design types (Generator, Manifesting Generator, Projector, Manifestor, Reflector) and how they influence your decisions, work style, and relationships.

    - Living in Alignment: Explore the concept of alignment, how to recognize when you’re off track, and why emotions like frustration or bitterness are powerful guides toward personal growth.

    - Human Design in Career and Teamwork: Practical insights into how knowing your design can enhance team dynamics, improve collaboration, and help you thrive in your career.

    - Parenting and Relationships through Human Design: Discover how understanding Human Design can transform parenting styles and strengthen personal connections by honoring individual needs.


    If you’ve ever felt out of sync with the life you’re living or curious about how to unlock a deeper understanding of yourself, this episode offers practical advice, inspiring stories, and actionable insights to help you embrace who you truly are.


    Connect with Paula:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulatorraco/

    Website: https://www.tobehonest.eu

    The Book of You: https://www.tobehonest.eu/the-book-of-you


    Connect with Us:

    LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappiness

    Daisy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/

    Jamie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/

    1 hr 18 min
  • Kuhu Singh: Why This Founder Built a 24/7 Support App

    In this episode of Realistic Happiness, we’re joined by Kuhu Singh, founder of Amber, an AI-driven mental health app. With her background in tech and marketing, Kuhu is passionate about creating mental health solutions that bridge the gap between therapy and everyday mental support.

    We discuss:

    • The Impact of Management on Mental Health: Explore how early managerial experiences shape professional well-being, influencing how we navigate stress and expectations in the workplace.

    • Realizing Life Beyond Work: Learn how Kuhu recognized the importance of a balanced life, realizing that building an identity solely around work can be unsustainable and detrimental to mental health.

    • Challenges of Entrepreneurship in Mental Health Tech: Gain insights into Kuhu’s journey from non-technical founder to solo developer, creating a compassionate AI app for mental health support.

    • The Role of AI as a Mental Health Companion: Discover how Amber uses empathetic AI to provide users with a safe, judgment-free space to share thoughts, serving as a bridge for mental health support rather than a replacement for therapy.

    • Balancing Ambition and Well-being: Understand the importance of pacing oneself, not overthinking, and learning to manage mental pressure in the high-stakes world of entrepreneurship.

    • If you’re navigating career transitions, seeking work-life balance, or looking for ways to improve mental resilience, this episode offers honest reflections and actionable insights into managing mental health in the professional world.

      Connect with Kuhu:
      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kuhu-singh-li/
      Try Amber for free: https://app.ambermind.ai/
      Connect with Us:
      LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappiness
      Daisy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/
      Jamie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/


      Timestamps:0:00. Intro1:10. Impact of managers on career growth and mental health8:12. Embracing a mindset that work isn’t everything17:59. How career pressures transition into entrepreneurial life21:55. Starting a business28:25. Challenges and setbacks faced in creating a mental health platform33:52. Tired of pretending to be okay on social media37:06. What sets Amber apart? + Early user feedback49:44. Inside the app experience & how Amber supports human needs53:56. Practical scenarios where Amber can help1:02:02. Conversation cards & closing thoughts.
      Timestamps:

      0:00. Intro

      1:10. Impact of managers on career growth and mental health

      8:12. Embracing a mindset that work isn’t everything

      17:59. How career pressures transition into entrepreneurial life

      21:55. Starting a business

      28:25. Challenges and setbacks faced in creating a mental health platform

      33:52. Tired of pretending to be okay on social media

      37:06. What sets Amber apart? + Early user feedback

      49:44. Inside the app experience & how Amber supports human needs

      53:56. Practical scenarios where Amber can help

      1:02:02. Conversation cards & closing thoughts.

      1 hr 7 min
    • Amy Weidner: The Drive for Dopamine and the Battle for Balance

      In this episode of Realistic Happiness, we sit down with Amy Weidner, a founder and neurodivergent advocate who’s navigating life, work, and ADHD with a mix of honesty and grit. She opens up about her journey of discovering and managing ADHD while still finding fulfillment and meaning in her career.

      We dive into:
      - Living with ADHD and the Power of Hyperfocus: Amy talks about the highs and lows of ADHD’s hyperfocus—how it drives her productivity, but also what it takes to balance that with the everyday demands of life.
      - Impulsivity and the Struggle with Addiction: From late-night shopping sprees to the tricky relationship with alcohol, Amy gets real about the impulsive side of ADHD and shares hard-won tips on setting boundaries.
      - Rethinking Productivity and Inclusion at Work: Amy brings her insights on making workplaces more inclusive for those who think differently—breaking down productivity myths and redefining what it means to be “successful” at work.
      - Breaking the Mold and Showing Up as Yourself: We challenge the idea of “bringing your whole self to work” and dig into how you can stay true to who you are without the pressure to conform.
      If you’re someone who’s struggling with ADHD, burnout, or just looking for a real conversation about finding balance, tune in. This episode is packed with raw insights and advice to help you thrive on your own terms.
      Connect with Amy:
      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amweidner/
      Linktree: https://linktr.ee/amyweidner
      Connect with Us:
      LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappiness
      Daisy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/
      Jamie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/

      1 hr 15 min
    • Paola Elena Brignoli: Why Change Feels So Hard - And How to Overcome It

      In this episode of Realistic Happiness, we’re joined by Paola Elena Brignoli, a Corporate Well-being Expert, keynote speaker, and coach, passionate about helping people thrive in their careers and personal lives.


      We discuss:

      - Overcoming Resistance to Change: Understand why change feels difficult, the science behind it, and how to work with your brain’s natural tendencies to build adaptability.

      - Turning Discomfort into Growth: Discover ways to approach discomfort in career transitions and personal growth, transforming these challenges into opportunities for lasting progress.

      - Handling Workplace Changes with Confidence: Learn how to respond when your workplace changes unexpectedly—whether it’s new management, evolving roles, or team restructuring—by finding purpose and clarity in your actions.

      - Building Positive Support Systems: Find out why the people around you matter, and how to engage with those who energize you and encourage your development, rather than reinforcing negativity.

      - Navigating Intrusive Thoughts and Self-Doubt: Gain techniques for identifying self-sabotaging thoughts and building the confidence to make empowered decisions, even in uncertain times.


      If you’re feeling overwhelmed by career shifts, struggling to find work-life balance, or looking for simple ways to improve your mental resilience, this episode is packed with real-world advice and strategies you can apply today.


      Connect with Paola:

      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paola-elena-brignoli/

      Website: https://brignolipaolayoga.com/


      Connect with Us:

      LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappiness

      Daisy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/

      Jamie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/

      1 hr 16 min
    • Manos Gasparis: Why You’re Being Rejected & Ghosted - Job Search

      In this episode of Realistic Happiness, we sit down with Manos Gasparis, an MSc Business Administration graduate specializing in HR Management, currently working as a People Services Associate at Just Eat Takeaway. Drawing from his academic research, Manos shares invaluable insights into job rejection, ghosting, and the emotional toll they take on job seekers—offering strategies to overcome these hurdles and stay empowered during the job hunt.

      We discuss:
      - The skill of job hunting: Manos explains why finding a job is a skill that requires practice, including navigating rejections and perfecting the interview process.
      - Rejection and ghosting in the workplace: Discover how common ghosting is in job rejections, and how it affects self-esteem. Manos highlights the importance of feedback and transparency from companies to improve candidate experience.
      - Constructive feedback: We explore how personalized feedback after interviews can help candidates improve their job prospects, while maintaining their confidence.
      - Avoiding burnout during your job search: Learn how to protect your mental health and well-being when job searching feels like a full-time job. Manos shares strategies to balance productivity with rest, so you don’t lose yourself in the process.
      - Stay proactive and in control: Understand why you should never stop applying, even after receiving an offer, and how maintaining control of your job search can give you the leverage needed to negotiate better opportunities.
      If you’re navigating the challenges of job searching or dealing with rejection, this episode offers practical advice and mental strategies to help you handle rejection, maintain confidence, and ultimately find more balance and fulfilment in your career.
      Connect with Manos:
      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manos-gasparis/
      Connect with Us:
      LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappiness
      Daisy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/
      Jamie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/

      52 min
    • Emily Firth: The Truth Works - Advocating for Yourself

      In this episode of Realistic Happiness, we sit down with Emily Firth, co-founder of Truthworks, to dive into the complex world of corporate culture, leadership authenticity, and navigating workplace politics. Emily brings her wealth of experience in employer branding and leadership development to shed light on how individuals can thrive, even in challenging corporate environments.

      We discuss:
      - The role of vulnerability in leadership: Discover why many leaders struggle to show vulnerability and how embracing it can lead to more honest and productive workplaces.
      - Breaking down silos and building collaboration: Learn about the dangers of workplace silos and cliques, and how to create a more inclusive and connected team environment.
      - Navigating workplace politics: How to play the corporate game strategically and build valuable relationships that can boost your career growth.
      - Authenticity at work: Why bringing your "full self" to work can be a trap, and how to balance authenticity with professionalism in corporate settings.
      - Advocating for yourself: Emily shares practical advice on setting boundaries and advocating for your needs while aligning them with company goals.
      If you're a professional feeling tired or a young adult navigating career transitions, this episode offers actionable insights on how to survive—and thrive—in today's corporate world while maintaining a balance between authenticity and career success.
      Connect with Emily:
      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyfirth/
      Website: https://www.thetruthworks.co/Email: [email protected]

      Connect with Us:
      LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappiness
      Daisy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/
      Jamie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/

      59 min
    • Basma Aziz: Breaking the Burnout Cycle

      In the first episode of Realistic Happiness, we sit down with Basma Aziz, an experienced wellbeing facilitator and public speaker specializing in employee engagement and corporate mental health. Basma dives into the realities of burnout and the steps companies—and individuals—can take to create a more balanced and fulfilling work life.

      We discuss:
      - Why burnout is on the rise: Uncover the core reasons behind burnout, including lack of job security, overwork, and corporate greed, and learn how to spot the early warning signs.
      - The impact of leadership and company culture: Discover how leadership styles and transparency (or lack thereof) contribute to disengagement and what needs to change for companies to put people first.
      - Effective wellbeing strategies for workplaces: Basma shares practical advice on how HR and leadership teams can integrate meaningful wellbeing initiatives that go beyond superficial perks and create real impact.
      - The role of neurodiversity and individual differences: How to support neurodiverse employees and create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
      - Basma’s personal journey with burnout: Learn how Basma overcame her own burnout experience and redefined success, building resilience and self-awareness along the way.
      - If you're feeling overwhelmed, struggling to find your place in your career, or are interested in how organizations can build healthier cultures, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice to help you navigate these challenges and achieve realistic happiness.
      Connect with Basma:
      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/basmaaziz/
      Website: https://www.aklconsultancy.co/
      Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/61TNGX84KJePVltUYA3R5X?si=494a819e17af4172
      Connect with Us:
      LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappiness
      Daisy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/
      Jamie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/

      1 hr 26 min
    • Rebrand Announcement.

      Welcome to Realistic Happiness— the podcast designed to explore a practical, grounded approach to achieving and maintaining happiness, without the unrealistic pressure to always be positive or perfect.

      I’m Daisy Ilaria, your host, and each week we’ll dive into real conversations, practical tips, and science-backed strategies to help you build a balanced and achievable sense of happiness. Each episode, I’ll be joined by inspiring guests to share their insights and hacks for better work, relationships, and well-being.

      Realistic Happiness is not about being happy all the time, but rather about acknowledging and accepting the ups and downs of life. It involves developing a mindset that allows us to respond to adversity in a way that encourages growth and resilience.

      So, if you’re ready for real, relatable guidance on finding more peace and purpose in your life, you’re in the right place. Here’s to finding your version of Realistic Happiness…

      2 min
    • Peter Molnár: Digital Nomad Lifestyle | TxC Podcast Ep.33

      In this episode of TalentXChange, we sit down with Peter Molnár, founder of The Job Search and former Meta recruiter, who shares his journey of breaking free from the corporate grind to find balance and fulfillment as a digital nomad. Peter specializes in leadership hiring for tech companies and provides insights on managing career transitions while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

      We discuss:
      - Peter’s experience transitioning from a structured 9-to-5 role to embracing the freedom and flexibility of the digital nomad lifestyle
      - The challenges and misconceptions of remote work, from setting up routines to finding productivity outside the traditional office setting
      - Practical advice for those seeking to introduce more flexibility into their work environment and navigate conversations with employers about working remotely
      - The pros and cons of becoming a digital nomad, including financial considerations, planning travel logistics, and dealing with “post-travel blues”
      - Peter’s entrepreneurial journey, leaving Meta to build his own business in niche leadership hiring for tech companies
      - Tips for companies on attracting and retaining top leadership talent, and the complexities of hiring for senior roles
      Connect with Peter:
      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petermolnartjs/
      Lilo: https://www.instagram.com/furrylops
      Connect with TxC:
      TxC LinkedIn Community: https://linkedin.com/company/txcpodcast
      Daisy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/
      Jamie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/

      42 min

    About Realistic Happiness

    From the publisher's feed

    Realistic Happiness is a podcast designed to explore a practical, grounded approach to achieving and maintaining happiness in everyday life, particularly in the workplace and through personal…