Action for Happiness

In this episode Mark speaks with Katy Milkman of Wharton about how to use the "fresh start" effect and behavioural science to make real, lasting changes. They cover why change is hard and practical tactics to overcome impulsivity, procrastination, forgetfulness and low motivation.

Key strategies include temptation bundling (pairing chores with treats), commitment devices and penalties, concrete implementation plans, helpful defaults, social support and breaking big goals into bite-sized daily actions.

In this episode Mark Williamson speaks with Mo Gawdat, former Google X exec and author of Solve for Happy, about how to retrain the brain, beat negative self‑talk, and find calm, contented happiness even after loss. Mo shares his personal story, the 1 Billion Happy mission, and practical tools including a three‑question flowchart, reframing techniques, and a simple exercise to quiet the inner critic.

Listeners will learn how to separate from unhelpful thoughts, respond constructively to setbacks, and cultivate realistic optimism and gratitude to improve wellbeing for themselves and others.

Join Mark and psychotherapist Owen O'Kane as they explore evidence-based, practical ways to manage stress, unhelpful thoughts, and emotional overwhelm. Owen shares simple body-based techniques, storytelling tools, and daily habits to help you respond more effectively to life’s challenges.

Learn how to locate emotions in the body, reframe your inner critic, build small daily rituals, and strengthen connection and hope — clear, actionable steps you can use today to improve your mental wellbeing.

In this enlightening episode Mark Williamson speaks with Sir Anthony Seldon about the difference between pleasure and lasting happiness, practical ways to build resilience (including mindfulness, the Action for Happiness 10 keys, exercise and community), and how to teach young people the life skills they need to thrive. They discuss coping with loss and chronic pain, the role of meaning and connection, and simple steps listeners can take to support their own well‑being and that of others.

Host Mark Williamson talks with Dr. Fred Luskin, founder of the Stanford Forgiveness Project, about how to let go of anger and resentment and find peace. They cover what forgiveness is (and isn’t), guided meditations, grieving versus grievance, and practical tools for forgiving others and yourself.

The episode includes simple mindfulness exercises, real-life Q&A about boundaries, abuse, trauma and divorce, and the message that forgiveness is a teachable skill that helps restore connection, reduce suffering and reclaim life in the present.