• Chris A. Kramer: Humor in Resistance — How Frederick Douglass Did It | Sero Boost #76
    Apr 11 2025

    As the saying goes, laughter is the best medicine. So, this week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Lu Ngo interviews philosophy professor Chris A. Kramer to learn about what we can apply to our daily lives based on the works of American orator Frederick Douglass.

    Based at Santa Barbara City College, Chris A. Kramer serves as both Assistant Professor and Chair of Philosophy. That aside, he is the advisor to the Philosophy Club and a professor for the Umoja and Raices programs. His interests intersect across the philosophy of humor, mind, religion, informal logic, existentialism and phenomenology, and oppression. His dissertation was on “Subversive Humor”, half about humor, half about oppression. Readers will laugh and cry, but mostly cry, and mostly because they are reading a dissertation; what has become of their lives?

    In this episode, Chris A. Kramer delves into the various definitions and approaches to humor, citing notable philosophers such as Aristotle and Ludwig Wittgenstein. Additionally, he highlights how Frederick Douglass wielded intellectual play to challenge slavery and fight for equality, while evading cognitive biases and belief traps, in his speeches, autobiographies and interactions with other people.

    Conversely, Lu and Chris A. Kramer also discuss when humor may not be the best prescription, as well as practical advice for evoking humor and laughter in our daily lives. So, tune in to learn about how humor can disrupt power dynamics, foster solidarity, and so much more!

    Follow Chris A. Kramer’s work: https://sbcc.academia.edu/ChrisKramer

    Produced by the Happiness Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

    Explore LMSL at https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/ and visit http://ha.lmsl.net/ for additional information about Happiness Science Labs.

    Follow us on Social Media to stay updated: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC557HWCcYOBcuTzg-ZbTpuw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Happiness.Science.Labs.1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happiness.science_labs/ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/happiness-science-labs Twitter: https://twitter.com/HaScienceLabs TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happiness.science.labs

    You can also subscribe and listen to the show on your preferred podcasting platforms: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast/id1648514660 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4tAnnsetgCxHVig1HZDE7E Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9010428a-46cd-44c2-a253-699a3586c156/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/338-sero-boost-the-happiness-s-102890037/ Podbean: https://happinessinsights.podbean.com/ PlayerFM: https://player.fm/series/3402528 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/sero-boost-the-happiness-scien-4914858 Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkLnBvZGJlYW4uY29tL2hhcHBpbmVzc2luc2lnaHRzL2ZlZWQueG1s

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    1 hr and 16 mins
  • Carrie Barron: How Locus of Control Affects Happiness | Sero Boost #75
    Mar 27 2025

    Ever wondered why some people seem to breeze through life’s challenges, while others struggle with daily inconveniences? The answer just might lie in your locus of control! So, this week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella interviews psychiatrist and psychoanalyst Carrie Barron on how our locus of control contributes to our perspective of happiness.

    A renowned associate professor in the Department of Medical Education at The University of Texas at Austin, Carrie Barron also leads as director of Creativity for Resilience at Dell Medical School. In addition to having published several peer-reviewed journals and the Harvard Business Review, Carrie Barron is the co-author behind the innovative and insightful book ‘The Creativity Cure: A Do-It-Yourself Prescription for Happiness’.

    In this episode, Carrie Barron establishes the differences between an internal and external locus of control, as well as how it may affect an individual’s mental health and happiness. Additionally, Carrie Barron reveals the various factors that may influence one’s locus of control, and offers advice on how to adopt a more empowering mindset.

    Together, Marie and Carrie Barron explore journaling as a way to reflect on one’s self-awareness and locus of control, from writing to recording. So, tune in this week for an interesting conversation on how shifting your perspective can lead to better relationships, improved mental health, and a more fulfilling life!

    Follow Carrie Barron’s work via the following platforms: Carrie Barron: https://www.carriebarronmd.com University of Texas at Austin: https://dellmed.utexas.edu/directory/carrie-barron Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/contributors/carrie-barron-md

    Produced by the Happiness Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

    Explore LMSL at https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/ and visit http://ha.lmsl.net/ for additional information about Happiness Science Labs.

    Follow us on Social Media to stay updated: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC557HWCcYOBcuTzg-ZbTpuw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Happiness.Science.Labs.1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happiness.science_labs/ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/happiness-science-labs Twitter: https://twitter.com/HaScienceLabs TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happiness.science.labs

    You can also subscribe and listen to the show on your preferred podcasting platforms: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast/id1648514660 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4tAnnsetgCxHVig1HZDE7E Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9010428a-46cd-44c2-a253-699a3586c156/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/338-sero-boost-the-happiness-s-102890037/ Podbean: https://happinessinsights.podbean.com/ PlayerFM: https://player.fm/series/3402528 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/sero-boost-the-happiness-scien-4914858

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    43 mins
  • Assoc. Prof. Matthew Hammerton: Why Meaning Matters for True Happiness | Sero Boost #74
    Mar 14 2025

    In a world obsessed with quick fixes and temporary pleasures, what if true happiness is actually about something far more profound? This week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Sabrina Oktavelia interviews psychology Assoc. Prof. Matthew Hammerton on what makes life worth living.

    Having joined Singapore Management University in 2018, Assoc. Prof. Matthew Hammerton specializes in moral philosophy. His work covers a myriad of topics, including consequentialism, deontology, virtue ethics, meaning in life, and moral reasoning, that explores different categories of value that are important for living a good life and acting ethically. Currently, he is writing a monograph on work and its relation to meaning in life.

    In this episode, Assoc. Prof. Matthew Hammerton highlights that happiness contains two meanings, referring to either a positive psychological state, or the idea that one has obtained the ‘ultimate’ status or objects in life, and that the two are often conflated. He adds that people may realize their meaning in life through various domains, be it work, community, or relationships.

    Together, Sabrina and Assoc. Prof. Matthew Hammerton discuss the importance of taking a step back from the routine obligations of life to reflect on one’s goals and values. So, whether you’re feeling stuck, searching for more, or simply curious about the human experience and society’s notion of happiness, tune in to this episode for eye-opening and thought-provoking perspectives on happiness!

    Follow Assoc. Prof. Matthew Hammerton’s work: Singapore Management University: https://faculty.smu.edu.sg/profile/hammerton-matthew-2071 PhilPeople: https://philpeople.org/profiles/matthew-hammerton

    Connect with Assoc. Prof. Matthew Hammerton via LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-hammerton-064ba6328

    Produced by the Happiness Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

    Explore LMSL at https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/ and visit http://ha.lmsl.net/ for additional information about Happiness Science Labs.

    Follow us on Social Media to stay updated: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC557HWCcYOBcuTzg-ZbTpuw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Happiness.Science.Labs.1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happiness.science_labs/ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/happiness-science-labs Twitter: https://twitter.com/HaScienceLabs TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happiness.science.labs

    You can also subscribe and listen to the show on your preferred podcasting platforms: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast/id1648514660 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4tAnnsetgCxHVig1HZDE7E Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9010428a-46cd-44c2-a253-699a3586c156/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/338-sero-boost-the-happiness-s-102890037/ Podbean: https://happinessinsights.podbean.com/ PlayerFM: https://player.fm/series/3402528 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/sero-boost-the-happiness-scien-4914858

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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Dr. Ashley Smith: The Impact of Anxiety on Daily Joy | Sero Boost #73
    Feb 27 2025
    Our daily lives are often disrupted by our anxious thoughts. How can we stop our anxiety from being joy’s thief? This week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Sabrina Oktavelia interviews Peak Mind: The Center for Psychological Strength co-founder Dr. Ashley Smith on the impact of anxiety on daily joy and how we can handle our anxiety. An inspiring figure overcoming her rare visual impairment, Dr. Ashley Smith is a licensed psychologist, professional speaker, and author of The Way I See It: A Psychologist’s Guide to a Happier Life. She is a sought-after anxiety expert and an outspoken advocate dedicated to changing the way we approach mental health and wellbeing. In this episode, Dr. Ashley Smith shares her journey in overcoming her anxiety during the development of her rare degenerative retinal disease. She defines anxiety as a false alarm in our fight or flight system. She reveals that behind anxiety, our thalamus and amygdala plays a role in the gap of our feelings and logic affecting cortisol and adrenaline creating the feeling of anxiousness. Together, Sabrina and Dr. Ashley Smith discuss the different practices and treatments available in handling anxiety as well as Peak Mind - the innovative platform available for individuals and organization to approach mental health and wellbeing and thrive in life. So, whether you’re a business leader, human resources professional, or a diligent employee, tune in to this episode for advice on tackling anxiety and daily bring joy to your life! Follow Dr. Ashley Smith’s work: Personal website: https://www.drashleysmith.com Peak Mind: The Center for Psychological Strength: www.peakmindpsychology.com Connect with Dr. Ashley Smith via the following platforms: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drashleysmith/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drashleysmith/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drashleysmith Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drashleysmith Produced by the Happiness Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs. Explore LMSL at https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/ and visit http://ha.lmsl.net/ for additional information about Happiness Science Labs. Follow us on Social Media to stay updated: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC557HWCcYOBcuTzg-ZbTpuw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Happiness.Science.Labs.1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happiness.science_labs/ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/happiness-science-labs Twitter: https://twitter.com/HaScienceLabs TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happiness.science.labs You can also subscribe and listen to the show on your preferred podcasting platforms: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast/id1648514660 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4tAnnsetgCxHVig1HZDE7E Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9010428a-46cd-44c2-a253-699a3586c156/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/338-sero-boost-the-happiness-s-102890037/ Podbean: https://happinessinsights.podbean.com/ PlayerFM: https://player.fm/series/3402528 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/sero-boost-the-happiness-scien-4914858
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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • Pam Buchanan: Soul Health — Revolutionizing Workplace Wellness | Sero Boost #72
    Feb 13 2025

    What if the workplace were a sanctuary where wellness isn’t merely a corporate buzzword, but a vibrant culture in which employees flourish? This week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella interviews Quantum Sense founder Pam Buchanan on what soul health is, and how it could revolutionize workplace wellness.

    Pioneering in soul health innovations, Pam Buchanan and her company, Quantum Sense, stand at the intersection of corporate prowess and soulful innovation. With over 40 years of experience in corporate America, including pivotal roles at Nasdaq where she worked closely with tech titans like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg, Pam is uniquely positioned to understand the evolving corporate landscape and the benefit of putting an emphasis on a connection to the senses at work.

    In this episode, Pam Buchanan shares her definition of soul health, describing it as knowing oneself on an intimate level, and distinguishing it from religion. She reveals that introspection is a major factor in defining one’s soul health, and that encouraging soul health in employees can produce more willingful commitment, longevity and output.

    Together, Marie and Pam Buchanan discuss the soul health innovations on offer by Quantum Sense, as well as personal habits that may prove useful in achieving and maintaining soul health. So, whether you’re a business leader, human resources professional, or a diligent employee, tune in to this episode for advice on bringing more heart and humanity to your professional life!

    Follow Pam Buchanan’s work: https://thequantumsense.com/

    Connect with Pam Buchanan via the following platforms: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thequantumsense/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pam-buchanan/

    Produced by the Happiness Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

    Explore LMSL at https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/ and visit http://ha.lmsl.net/ for additional information about Happiness Science Labs.

    Follow us on Social Media to stay updated: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC557HWCcYOBcuTzg-ZbTpuw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Happiness.Science.Labs.1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happiness.science_labs/ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/happiness-science-labs Twitter: https://twitter.com/HaScienceLabs Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happiness.science.labs

    You can also subscribe and listen to the show on your preferred podcasting platforms: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast/id1648514660 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4tAnnsetgCxHVig1HZDE7E Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9010428a-46cd-44c2-a253-699a3586c156/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/338-sero-boost-the-happiness-s-102890037/ Podbean: https://happinessinsights.podbean.com/ PlayerFM: https://player.fm/series/3402528 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/sero-boost-the-happiness-scien-4914858

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    58 mins
  • Diane Lang,MA, PPC: Cultivating Your Spiritual Side | Sero Boost #71
    Jan 30 2025

    In the quiet spaces between our bustling thoughts lies a landscape of spirituality waiting to be explored. This week on Sero Boost: The Happiness Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella interviews positive living expert Diane Lang,MA, PPC on what it means to cultivate our spirituality.

    Having dedicated her career to helping people turn their lives around, Diane Lang,MA, PPC is now on a mission to help people develop a sustainable positive attitude through her therapy, education, and life coaching practices. Impressively, she has authored three books aimed at guiding readers through to happiness, and has been featured in several publications, on television, as well as internet shows.

    In this episode, Diane Lang,MA, PPC addresses the misconception that spirituality requires entering a church or place of worship. Additionally, she reveals that the most important aspect of spirituality is self-reflection and knowing one’s intentions.

    Together, Marie and Diane Lang,MA, PPC talk in depth about the process of cultivating spirituality, as well as various habits that may prove useful in the endeavor. So, tune in this week for an insightful episode filled with ideas on practicing spirituality, personal anecdotes, and expert advice!

    Follow Diane Lang,MA, PPC’s work: http://www.dianelang.org

    Connect with Diane Lang,MA, PPC via the following platforms: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creatingbalanceandfindinghappiness/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlcounseling/ Email: diane@dianelang.org

    Produced by the Happiness Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

    Explore LMSL at https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/ and visit http://ha.lmsl.net/ for additional information about Happiness Science Labs.

    Follow us on Social Media to stay updated: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC557HWCcYOBcuTzg-ZbTpuw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Happiness.Science.Labs.1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happiness.science_labs/ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/happiness-science-labs Twitter: https://twitter.com/HaScienceLabs TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happiness.science.labs

    You can also subscribe and listen to the show on your preferred podcasting platforms: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast/id1648514660 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4tAnnsetgCxHVig1HZDE7E Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9010428a-46cd-44c2-a253-699a3586c156/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/338-sero-boost-the-happiness-s-102890037/ Podbean: https://happinessinsights.podbean.com/ PlayerFM: https://player.fm/series/3402528 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/sero-boost-the-happiness-scien-4914858

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    55 mins
  • Dr. Jared C. Pistoia: Overcoming Learned Helplessness for a Happier Life | Sero Boost #70
    Jan 16 2025

    Join host Lu Ngo as she sits down with naturopathic physician Dr. Jared C. Pistoia to explore how we can overcome mental barriers and reclaim control over our well-being. This episode promises to guide you toward resilience and joy.

    Dr. Jared C. Pistoia is a licensed naturopathic physician with over 15 years of experience in health and wellness. He is the author of two books and serves as the legislative chair of the Connecticut Naturopathic Physicians Association. With a background in nutrition, personal training, and health coaching, Dr. Jared C. Pistoia has written numerous wellness articles and is passionate about advancing naturopathic medicine.

    In this episode, Dr. Jared C. Pistoia explains how to distinguish between learned helplessness and situational challenges, offering insights on how naturopathy can play a role in overcoming mental blocks. He dives into the impact of mindset and beliefs on perpetuating helplessness and shares practical techniques to shift toward empowerment and resilience. Listeners will walk away with actionable practices to reclaim control and lead a happier, more fulfilling life.

    Tune in to this episode with Dr. Jared C. Pistoia and discover powerful methods to transform your mindset and boost your happiness. Don’t miss this empowering conversation on how to turn helplessness into strength!

    Connect with Dr. Jared C. Pistoia via: Website: http://www.drpistoia.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drpistoia/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.pistoia

    Produced by the Happiness Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

    Explore LMSL at https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/ and visit http://ha.lmsl.net/ for additional information about Happiness Science Labs.

    Follow us on Social Media to stay updated: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC557HWCcYOBcuTzg-ZbTpuw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Happiness.Science.Labs.1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happiness.science_labs/ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/happiness-science-labs Twitter: https://twitter.com/HaScienceLabs TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happiness.science.labs

    You can also subscribe and listen to the show on your preferred podcasting platforms: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast/id1648514660 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4tAnnsetgCxHVig1HZDE7E Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9010428a-46cd-44c2-a253-699a3586c156/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/338-sero-boost-the-happiness-s-102890037/ Podbean: https://happinessinsights.podbean.com/ PlayerFM: https://player.fm/series/3402528 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/sero-boost-the-happiness-scien-4914858

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    58 mins
  • Rhett Diessner: The Relationship Between Beauty and Spirituality | Sero Boost #69
    Jan 2 2025

    What if beauty could be a gateway to spirituality? Join host Lu Ngo as she explores the fascinating connection between beauty and spiritual experiences with Rhett Diessner, an expert in psychology and beauty appreciation. This episode promises to reveal how engaging with the world’s beauty can deepen our spiritual lives and enrich our sense of happiness.

    Rhett Diessner is Professor Emeritus of Psychology at Lewis-Clark State College and an Adjunct faculty member at the Bahá’í Institute of Higher Education. With a doctorate from Harvard University, his research focuses on the appreciation of natural, artistic, and moral beauty, and how these forms of beauty influence human development. He has authored numerous books and articles on beauty and spirituality, including Understanding the Beauty Appreciation Trait and Psyche and Eros: Baha'i Studies in a Spiritual Psychology.

    In this episode, Rhett Diessner discusses how spiritual or philosophical worldviews shape our appreciation of beauty in nature and art. He explores how engaging with natural beauty can lead to deeper spiritual connections and highlights the cultural differences in how beauty and spirituality are intertwined. Rhett also shares practical tips for cultivating a stronger relationship between beauty and spirituality in everyday life.

    Connect with Rhett Diessner via: Website: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rhett-Diessner Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhett-diessner-4b1ba087/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rhett.diessner.9/

    Produced by the Happiness Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

    Explore LMSL at https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/ and visit http://ha.lmsl.net/ for additional information about Happiness Science Labs.

    Follow us on Social Media to stay updated: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC557HWCcYOBcuTzg-ZbTpuw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Happiness.Science.Labs.1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happiness.science_labs/ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/happiness-science-labs Twitter: https://twitter.com/HaScienceLabs Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happiness.science.labs

    You can also subscribe and listen to the show on your preferred podcasting platforms: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast/id1648514660 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4tAnnsetgCxHVig1HZDE7E Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9010428a-46cd-44c2-a253-699a3586c156/sero-boost-the-happiness-science-insights-podcast iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/338-sero-boost-the-happiness-s-102890037/ Podbean: https://happinessinsights.podbean.com/ PlayerFM: https://player.fm/series/3402528 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/sero-boost-the-happiness-scien-4914858

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    53 mins
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