Economist and philosopher Mark Fabian joins the show to explore how we can move beyond the pursuit of happiness toward a deeper, values-driven life. Drawing from behavioral science, philosophy, and his new book Beyond Happy, Mark challenges the idea of happiness as an end goal and introduces the concept of “generalized flow.” From escaping the hedonic treadmill to cultivating self-awareness and community, this episode is a guide to rethinking what it means to live well.

 ©2025 Behavioral Grooves

[0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Mark Fabian

[8:56] Concept of Well-Being and Happiness

[15:45] How to Live a Valuable Life

[25:19] How to Discover Your Core Self

[32:54] Self-Actualization and Community

[42:42] The Role of Flow and Zest in a Good Life

[51:05] Desert Island Music

[56:18] Grooving Session: Zest, Identity, and Reframing Happiness

©2025 Behavioral Grooves

More about Mark

Beyond Happy by Mark Fabian

Mihaly Csikzentmihalyi’s research on Flow

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