
Ep. 498: Don’t Volunteer to Bring Bad News & Listeners Suggest Great Tips for Accountability and Pairing
We talk about why it’s advisable (if possible) to avoid being the bringer of bad news. We also discuss why it’s a good idea to RSVP “yes” or “no” quickly--and stick to that decision. Plus we share man...
4 Sep 202434min

Little Happier: A Paradox: How Do You Stand Out When Standing Out Is the Best Way to Fit In?
In Scarlett Thomas’s brilliant novel PopCo, a protagonist wants to set herself apart from her colleagues, but she’s stumped by a conundrum she can’t solve. Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Foll...
2 Sep 20243min

More Happier: The Fun of an Unexpected Gift, Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders, and Herding the Cats During Holidays
We talk about the happiness that comes from getting a gift we don’t expect, and we discuss some quality screen time. We also consider the question: Does every family need a holiday-tradition-enforcer?...
31 Aug 202426min

Ep. 497: Forecast Your Foibles, a Big Life Change & the Correct Way to Load a Dishwasher
Inspired by college move-in day, we talk about why it’s helpful to forecast our own foibles. We also weigh in on the hot debate around the correct way to load a dishwasher, and we introduce a new podc...
28 Aug 202431min

Little Happier: Winston Churchill Didn’t Hesitate to Show His Emotions
A grim but hopeful episode from World War II’s Battle of Britain sheds a light on Winston Churchill’s character. Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Follow on social media: @GretchenRubin on Yo...
26 Aug 20243min

More Happier: Back-to-School Hacks (Revisited)
As the school year approaches, we’re re-sharing some of our best back-to-school tips and suggestions. Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Follow on social media: @GretchenRubin on YouTube @Gr...
24 Aug 202432min

Ep. 496: Make the Most of the First 3 Weeks, Use an Alarm & Cope with Exploitation of Obligers
We discuss research suggesting that during the first three weeks with strangers in a new environment (such as a cruise or college), we have a special window for making friends. We also talk about wh...
21 Aug 202434min

Little Happier: A Great Happiness-Boosting Example from Charles Darwin
Charles Darwin’s “Sand Walk” at Down House is a good example of how we can shape our surroundings and our schedule to help ourselves create habits that contribute to a happier, healthier, more product...
19 Aug 20243min




















