One Million Years Of Joy

Jenna Nicholas, author, investor and entrepreneur shares how business, investing, and leadership can become forces for healing, purpose, and long-term impact. Discover why purpose often gets overshadowed by profit, how Bhutan’s gross national happiness model challenges traditional success metrics, and why seven-generation thinking can help leaders make wiser decisions.

Discover insights from Siobhan Calderbank, an award-winning published author, founder of Butterfly Ladies, and a leader dedicated to fostering growth, diversity, and kindness. Dive into her inspiring journey from early dreams to transforming communities through mentorship and fearless leadership. Uncover practical strategies for identifying personal strengths, leading change, and finding joy in life.

Discover the breakthrough science of human flourishing. Ali Khan visiting professor at the University of Huddersfield, and advisor at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, reveals how understanding the true depth of human experience, can exponentially improve performance, engagement, and wellbeing. Discover the six key domains of human flourishing, how leaders can cultivate a thriving culture, the importance of psychological safety and purpose, and how education and experimentation can prepare us for the future.  

Most families avoid money conversations until it’s too late. In this episode, Jacqui Clarke, a financial strategist and author, shares how honest money talk can transform your finances, your relationships, and your future. She also reveals the three biggest money mistakes people make and why simple systems, savings habits, and a trusted financial “village” can make all the difference. If you want more confidence, clarity, and peace around money, this conversation is packed with practical advice you can use right away.

Stepping outside our comfort zones, can unlock life’s most extraordinary moments. Mike Abrams, a marketing strategist, educator, and podcast host, reveals how a relentless curiosity and willingness to say "yes" transformed his life. In this episode, discover how embracing risks, cultivating genuine connections, and rethinking failure can unlock unparalleled joy and opportunity. As an Adjunct Professor in Marketing, Mike also shares great insights on the key skills needed in the AI era. Discover Mike's podcast: bpn.fm/twcd

How do you find the right balance between AI transformation while keeping the human magic? Roberta Scrofani, an AI and transformation expert, exposes the hidden pitfalls of AI-driven transformation and reveals how to avoid them. Discover the core human skills that AI can't replace and why they matter more than ever, and practical strategies for leaders to foster trust, create purpose, and ignite joy in teams amid rapid change.

Omer Golan shares how a devastating event nearly ended his life but ultimately sparked a groundbreaking mission: healing others through the power of language and AI. Discover how he transformed pain into purpose, building a platform that helps people reimagine their futures without reliving trauma, and see real stories of hope, breakthrough, and profound shifts. You'll learn about the innovative “what-if” storytelling method that rewires the brain, empowering individuals to break free from limiting beliefs and envision a life they never thought possible. For more details about Omer's foundation: www.mywhatif.org

Join us in this conversation with Dr. Alejandra Guerrero, a renowned medical doctor and neurologist, as we explore the mysteries of the brain. Discover how our identity is shaped by our brain, the importance of preventive measures against diseases like Alzheimer's, and the impact of lifestyle on brain health. Dr. Guerrero shares insights on managing stress, the significance of life purpose, and how social interactions and exercise can enhance brain resilience. Whether you're curious about the science behind joy or seeking practical tips for a healthier brain, this episode offers valuable wisdom for everyone.

Mike Gore's journey from abandonment in India to founder of impactful charity platforms reveals how embracing our stories can reshape not only our lives but the world around us. In this episode, Mike shares the profound experiences that shaped his mission to foster generosity and belonging across cultures. You'll discover how his childhood resilience, intertwined with moments of extraordinary kindness, fuels his relentless drive to create systems that make generosity simple, accessible, and safe, especially for vulnerable communities. Perfect for social entrepreneurs, community builders, or anyone craving meaning amid chaos, this conversation reminds us that our stories are the foundation for impacting the world, one act of kindness at a time. To learn more about Mike Gore and his charity: Instagram (@_mikegore) Global Impact Summit (https://www.impactsummit.org/) Charitabl. (https://www.charitabl.org/)

What does it take to become the most decorated Olympian in South African history? In this episode, Tatjana Smith (Schoenmaker), shares the mindset, sacrifice, resilience, and inner journey behind Olympic greatness. Tatjana made history at the Olympic Games by winning: 🥇 Gold in the 200m Breaststroke at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (in world record time) 🥈 Silver in the 100m Breaststroke at Tokyo 2020 🥇 Gold in the 100m Breaststroke at the Paris 2024 Olympics 🥈 Silver in the 200m Breaststroke at the Paris 2024 Olympics These achievements made her the most decorated South African Olympian of all time. But beyond the medals, this conversation dives into the emotional side of elite performance and “what’s next” after retirement from competitive swimming. Whether you’re an athlete, leader, entrepreneur, or someone navigating change, Tatjana’s story will leave you inspired.          

Embark on a 30,000-kilometer journey with Melo Calarco, author and TEDx speaker, as he unveils the core ingredients of resilience. This conversation delivers powerful, actionable wisdom to cultivate purpose, and presence, specifically tailored for high-achievers determined to sidestep burnout.  

What happens when a world-renowned singer loses her voice, and has to rediscover who she is without it? South African singer, songwriter and entertainer LIRA shares her deeply personal journey after suffering a stroke that affected her ability to speak. Known for her soulful voice and global success, she opens up about the emotional, mental, and physical challenges of rebuilding her voice, from the ground up. This episode explores resilience, healing, and the courage to start again. From moments of silence to rediscovering joy through music, her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Discover more about her latest albums and concerts: https://www.misslira.com/

Florian Kemmerich, an entrepreneur, author and impact investor, reveals a powerful, seven-step framework to gain vocational clarity. If you're feeling lost in the noise of modern life, this episode offers a blueprint for aligning your work with your deepest values and making a meaningful impact. Florian breaks down practical exercises to identify your 'superpower,' differentiate between fantasy and intuition, and measure your real impact in the world. For more about his work: https://vocating.ai

Most of us live with a misconception that success is about conquering the world. Andrea Culligan, Office Managing Partner - Deloitte Sydney, shares her extraordinary journey that reveals a deeper truth : true fulfillment comes from embracing your imperfections, asking bold questions, and understanding who you are at your core. In this episode, you'll learn practical strategies for living more boldly and joyfully, including ways to redefine failure, harness the power of gratitude, and nurture your inner self through continuous self-exploration. Whether you're facing personal setbacks or seeking purpose beyond success, this episode is essential listening to inspire your next chapter of growth and fulfillment.

Unlock the secret to transforming your life with the healing power of sound. Sam Kukathas reveals how his voice can rewire your brain, dissolve emotional blocks, and create instant shifts, sometimes within minutes. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from your potential, this episode offers a radical new approach that bypasses the mind to access your deepest inner wisdom. Discover how Sam's journey from believed tone-deafness to becoming a master sound healer challenges everything you thought was possible. He shares groundbreaking insights on how sound frequencies craft profound cellular shifts, reprogram limiting beliefs about money and identity, and even accelerate business success, all through powerful, intentional breath and voice techniques. You'll learn how humming away in your own space can create harmony in your nervous system, open new pathways for clarity, and reveal your innate capacity for joy and purpose.   For more on Sam's work: -Resonance OS: resonanceos.io -Soul Purpose Leaders: soulpurposeleaders.com

"Pressure is everywhere!" for young teens and adults. In this conversation with Vian Nguyen, physician, coach, and founder of Taboos, she reveals that many teens appear to thrive on paper, yet internally struggle with anxiety, people-pleasing, and decision-making. This podcast episode illuminates the critical skills that bridge knowledge and action, empowering young people to live joyfully, even amidst uncertainty and rapid change. Whether you're a parent, or young adult yourself, you'll walk away with tangible tips to foster authentic communication, self-awareness, and emotional courage.  

Unlock the secrets to living longer, healthier, and more fulfilled with Leonard Rinser, a leading health futurist with a unique blend of insights on longevity, wellness, and human potential. This episode challenges your notions of health, revealing how small daily habits compound over decades to unlock extraordinary longevity. Discover why the future of health isn’t just reactive but profoundly proactive, personalized through AI and biotech, and how we can reshape our lives amid rapidly advancing technology.

Perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed or disconnected, this episode offers actionable insights to reframe your perspective, embrace beauty in the mundane, and live more joyfully, and intentionally, every day. Whether you’re navigating life’s transitions, seeking deeper purpose, or simply wanting to see the world with fresh eyes, Jane’s wisdom invites you to step into your everyday beauty. Jane Zimmer is an artist, former corporate executive, and founder of Zest: A Little Beauty Every Day. Her work blends art, mindfulness, and leadership to inspire others to find joy through presence and creativity. If you want to turn everyday moments into sources of inspiration and connection, this episode is your gentle nudge to start seeking beauty, and joy, in everything you do.

What if you could deliberately rewire your mind to adapt with superhuman agility? Dr. Max Mckeown, a renowned thinker blending science, art, and psychology, takes us on a journey through his latest book, Super Adaptability. He emphasizes that superhero adaptability isn’t just for extraordinary figures; it’s embedded in all of us, waiting to be activated. This episode shares the blueprint for unlocking that power within YOU.  

Join us in this episode featuring Caroline Codsi, the founder and CEO of Women in Governance. She is a two-time TEDx presenter, LinkedIn Learning trainer and she has been recognized with several awards, among which Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada, and Top 100 Entrepreneurs changing the world. Caroline shares her inspiring journey from Beirut during the civil war to becoming a leading advocate for gender parity. We cover topics like menopause and age discrimination, salary parity, boardroom dynamics, and Caroline's plans to expand her advocacy work to France.

If you care about staying sharp, energized, and mentally strong for decades to come, this conversation will change how you think about your brain. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Fotuhi is a leading expert in Alzheimer's disease prevention and brain health optimization. In this episode, Dr. Fotuhi shares actionable insights on how you can significantly enhance cognitive function and delay cognitive decline.  His latest book, The Invincible Brain, which is released today, is a must-read: https://www.amazon.ca/Invincible-Brain-Clinically-Proven-Age-Proof/dp/0063435713/ref=books_amazonstores_desktop_mfs_aufs_ap_sc_dsk_0?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=t94An&content-id=amzn1.sym.f11e9f20-addb-4df4-b5d4-612ff48a5466&pf_rd_p=f11e9f20-addb-4df4-b5d4-612ff48a5466&pf_rd_r=140-9898398-3771544&pd_rd_wg=BYb7w&pd_rd_r=d056942a-83d6-4027-8026-fe460b1781ce  

Discover key strategies to create human-centric organizations, where innovation, motivation and joy exists at all levels from two Leadership Luminaries (2024): Vanessa Cherenfant, an executive leader in strategy, transformation and operational excellence, and Joanne Kennedy, a communications, R&D and digital transformation senior executive. In this conversation, Joanne and Vanessa also share their journeys, how parenthood has influenced their leadership, how they define success, and what is their recipe for living a joyful life.

Dive into the transformative role laughter and humor play in leadership, team dynamics, and living a joyful life. Courtney Bickert shares her journey from organizational leadership to stand-up comedy, revealing how laughter fosters connection, resilience, and effectiveness.

Discover how ADHD can be a superpower with Peter Shankman, who shares his journey of transforming perceived challenges into strengths. From completing marathons and Ironmans to launching successful businesses and six best-selling books, Peter reveals how embracing his "faster brain" has been key to his achievements. Learn practical strategies to manage temptations and the importance of routines in maximizing performance. This episode offers insights for anyone looking to leverage their unique traits for personal and professional growth. Perfect for high-performers and those curious about thriving with ADHD.

Unlock the secret to women’s true power, both in the workplace and at home. Jingjin, co-founder of Elevate, shares how claiming your influence, embracing vulnerability, and understanding your season of life can transform your career and personal relationships. If you’ve ever doubted your worth or wondered how to rise in male-dominated spaces, this episode is your ultimate guide to stepping into your full potential with confidence and authenticity. Imagine knowing exactly how to navigate power dynamics, set ambitious goals, and advocate for your worth—all while staying true to yourself. Jingjin’s journey from being the only woman and Asian in corporate boardrooms to leading with boldness highlights practical strategies that you can implement today. She reveals that claiming power isn’t about fighting a system—it’s about understanding your value, speaking the language of influence, and consciously building your muscle of confidence. Join us and discover why women who claim their power aren’t just changing their own lives, they’re shaping the future of leadership itself.

Dr. Weiss, renowned author and innovator, discusses the importance of creating psychologically safe environments that nurture innovation and fulfillment. Highlighting his acclaimed book, Innovative Intelligence (recognized by CBC News as a “top 5 business book”) he emphasizes the leader's role in unlocking the innovative potential of teams rather than relying solely on training. Tune in for practical tips to help leaders cultivate a thriving and joyful organizational culture.

Maddy Dychtwald discusses the importance of lifestyle and environment in determining our health and longevity, emphasizing that 85-90% of our wellbeing is influenced by these factors rather than genetics. She explores societal attitudes towards aging, the value of resilience, and the need for a positive mindset. Maddy also shares insights from her book "Ageless Aging" and offers practical advice for enhancing brain health and financial wellbeing, while living more joyfully. Maddy Dychtwald is a renowned author, speaker, and thought leader in the fields of aging, longevity, and retirement. With nearly four decades of experience, she has dedicated her career to exploring the implications of demographic trends and the opportunities they present. Maddy is the co-founder of Age Wave, a firm focused on the impact of an aging population, and the author of several influential books, including "Ageless Aging." Keywords: aging, longevity, lifestyle, environment, resilience, positive mindset, brain health, financial wellbeing

In this heartfelt interview, Dr. S. Robert Levine shares his journey from a young physician to becoming a renowned cardiologist and husband to the legendary Mary Tyler Moore. He reflects on the challenges and joys of his career, the profound impact of his relationship with Mary, and his ongoing commitment to diabetes research. Dr. Levine's insights into purpose, joy, resilience, and gratitude offer inspiration and wisdom for all. #inspiration #Medicine #MaryTylerMoore

Neuroscientist and author Dr. Sarah McKay unravels the complexities of the brain, from the micro-level of neurons to the macro trends in public health. Discover how social relationships shape our brain health and explore the fascinating insights into women's neurobiology, motherhood, and menopause. This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone interested in understanding the brain's role in our lives. Don't miss out on these valuable insights!   #Neuroscience #BrainHealth #Podcast #Joy

Matthew Chavez is the creative mind behind Subway Therapy and Listening Lab. Discover how Matthew's journey from a simple idea to a global movement has transformed public spaces into platforms for dialogue and connection. With over 50,000 sticky notes collected in the New York subway, Matthew's project has become a beautiful mosaic of human expression. Learn about the power of listening, the joy of meaningful work, and the impact of fostering social cohesion. Whether you're interested in community building or personal growth, this episode offers valuable insights and stories that will resonate with you.

From winning MasterChef South Africa to filming a global food journey across 10 cities, Kamini Pather’s story is about far more than cooking. It’s about identity, courage, and connection. In this episode, Kamini reflects on her evolution from competitive kitchens to creative freedom as the host and producer of Girl Eat World. She shares how food became a bridge between culture, wellbeing, relationships, and joy, and why staying rooted in her heritage has been essential to her success. Along the way, Kamini has earned major accolades — from Cosmopolitan Woman of the Year to Glamour Woman of the Year — and her cookbook All Dhal’d Up won a 2025 Gourmand Award for Best Indian Cookbook in the World. This conversation is an invitation to slow down, savor life, and reconnect with what truly nourishes us.

David Bray, Ph.D., has built a career at the intersection of courage, curiosity, and complexity. Recently named by Business Insider as one of 24 Americans Changing the World, David has spent decades tackling humanity’s hardest challenges—from intelligence and national security to global humanitarian response. In this conversation, we explore the five technological revolutions reshaping our future—from AI and quantum computing to personalized medicine—and what they mean not just for innovation, but for how we live, lead, and find meaning. David also shares why, even in a rapidly changing world, joy, humanity, and agency remain within our reach.

Named one of Canadian SME’s Top 30 Female Business Leaders to Watch (2024), Tina Elinwa, Ph.D., is a youth mentor, entrepreneur, and author of The Teen CEO. A passionate advocate for burnout recovery among high performers and leadership development for the next generation, Tina equips emerging leaders with the tools to stay resilient, discover their purpose, and boldly build the future they envision.

What does it really take to craft an extraordinary life—one defined not by constant striving, but by purpose, connection, and soul? In this episode, discover Justin Breen, author of the international bestseller Epic Business and the Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestseller Epic Life. As the Founder and CEO of BrEpic Communications, Justin has made it his mission to connect visionary leaders who want to serve humanity at scale. Justin opens up about the surprising truth at the core of his work: “The endless drive for more and more and more… leaves less and less within the soul.” We explore why Justin now lets his heart make his biggest decisions, how he defines legacy beyond achievement, and what it truly means to build a life that’s epic from the inside out. If you’re tired of chasing “more” and ready to create a life that actually feels meaningful—this conversation is for you.

Discover why showing up as your true self at work isn’t just liberating — it’s transformative. In this inspiring conversation with Claude Silver, Chief Heart Officer at VaynerX, TEDx speaker and author of Be Yourself at Work, she opens up about the journey that shaped her, the experiences that defined her purpose to be of joyful service. She shares why labels hold us back, how motherhood deepened her perspective, and what leaders can do to lead with heart, humanity, and courage.

What do boldness and fear have in common? Discover Leigh Burgess’s answer along with insights to push new boundaries to live a more fulfilling life. As the CEO and Founder of Bold Industries Group, and author of two books, Leigh helps individuals catalyze positive change. Discover key insights from her latest book, The Bold Leader, so you can live and lead with more clarity and courage.

Aidan Uttinger is a visionary entrepreneur who founded The World’s Greatest Experiment, a global movement inspired by the kindness of a Filipino family who once took him in during a tough chapter. Originally from New Zealand, Aidan’s journey spans from adversity and reinvention to building projects that harness love and human energy to end poverty.

Josh Perry, a former BMX athlete and brain tumor survivor, shares his journey of adopting a mindset of being "at cause" rather than "at effect," emphasizing ownership and empowerment in life's circumstances. He highlights the importance of prioritizing health, both physical and mental, and shares insights on metabolic health, stress regulation, and the interconnectedness of the mind and body. The conversation also touches on the role of joy, authenticity, and empathy in personal growth and resilience, with Josh offering practical advice on setting boundaries, avoiding burnout, and living a fulfilling life. #mindset #health #empowerment #metabolichealth #stress #regulation #joy #authenticity #empathy #resilience #personalgrowth

Noella Coursaris Musunka shares her inspiring journey from a challenging childhood in the Congo to becoming a successful model, philanthropist, and founder of the Malaika Foundation. Noëlla has received several awards including the Nelson Mandela Foundation’s 100 years award, BBC’s 100 Influential and Inspirational Women, 100 Most Influential Africans from New African magazine. She offers valuable advice for aspiring philanthropists and reflects on the ingredients of joy and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.

It's 2000x more difficult! These were the words from Stephanie Sylvestre about her experience in launching her AI start-up. Yes, entrepreneurship comes with many challenges, but also many joys. Stephanie shares her journey from managing public sector programs to co-founding AvatarBuddy, an AI venture focused on innovation and empathy. She discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of mental health, and the power of human-centric leadership. Discover her recipe for joy and why she has an unwavering belief in human nature.

Dennis Hindsberg, is the CEO of Plandent and Chairperson of Dental Health Without Borders. Discover how his passion for surfing led to his journey of integrating sustainability into the dental industry. Under his leadership, Plandent achieved B Corp certification, setting a benchmark for environmental and social responsibility. Dennis discusses the importance of human-centric leadership, emphasizing the need to empower individuals to find purpose and joy in their work.

Kira Miller Fabregat is a global leader in diversity, inclusion, and adaptive leadership. Having lived in nine countries and across multiple cultures, Kira shares how her multicultural upbringing shaped her purpose and her deep understanding of human connection. In this interview we explore how joy and gratitude are foundational to belonging, why psychological safety fuels inclusion and innovation, and how unconscious biases can be transformed into conscious leadership. Kira also opens up about motherhood, purpose, and love — and how these life experiences have reshaped her views on leadership and joy. This episode is a celebration of humanity, inclusion, and the courage to put in the inner work to create meaningful change, in ourselves, our organizations, and the world.   #Leadership #Inclusion #JoyfulLeadership #PsychologicalSafety #PurposeDriven #DiversityAndInclusion #FutureOfWork #HumanConnection

Leadership Luminary Mark Beliczky explores how leaders can create organizations rooted in trust, authenticity, and joy. From transforming toxic cultures into thriving workplaces to sparking moments of joy through simple, human gestures, Mark illustrates why joy is not just a feel-good concept but a true competitive advantage. The episode dives into lessons on listening, family-inspired leadership, AI’s role in the future of work, and how leaders can foster environments where people love to show up, grow, and contribute.

Dr. Kerry Burnight, discusses her new book, JoySpan, a New York Times bestseller, which reframes the concept of aging by emphasizing the importance of joy and well-being over mere longevity. She introduces the JoySpan matrix, consisting of four essential elements: grow, connect, adapt, and give, which are crucial for thriving in later life. The discussion also touches on the unique challenges faced by women in aging, the role of technology and AI in elder care, and the significance of intergenerational connections. Dr. Burnight shares practical advice for enhancing joy and purpose in life, making this a valuable resource for anyone interested in aging gracefully and meaningfully.   00:00 Redefining Aging: The Concept of JoySpan 05:04 The JoySpan Matrix: Four Key Elements 10:23 The Importance of Connection and Adaptation 15:51 Women and Aging: Unique Challenges and Strategies 20:29 Navigating Caregiving and Aging Parents 26:12 The Role of Technology in Elder Care 30:39 Creating Intergenerational Connections 36:05 Recipes for Joy: Practical Tips for All Ages   Keywords: JoySpan, aging, well-being, social connection, growth, purpose, intergenerational, mental health, Alzheimer's, gerontology

What if resilience isn’t extraordinary, but something you can train every day? That’s the life’s work of Luis Velasquez, HBR and Fast Company contributor, Stanford University facilitator, and author of Ordinary Resilience. Luis is not only an avid endurance athlete who has completed over 100 marathons and ultra events—he’s also a brain tumor survivor who has turned adversity into a framework for growth. From coaching top executives to writing and running, he has distilled a formula for resilience and joy that anyone can apply when facing life’s toughest moments.

In our AI driven world, how do we protect what makes us human and what role will joy play in our lives? If you wish to get a glimpse into the future listen to this fascinating conversation with Katrin J. Yuan, CEO of the Swiss Future Institute. She is an influential AI community builder with expertise extending to AI Tech Future Boards, AI in Finance and Entrepreneurship. She has been featured as Top 100 Future Women and Leaders of the New Era in Media, she lectures at four Universities, and she sits on multiple boards. She is also the author of a book on AI for Managers (KI-Wissen für Führungskräfte).    #podcast #leadership #future #responsibleAI #joy

What is a counterfeit emotion, and can you identify at least one from the following list: Love, Lust, Guilt, Shame, Pain, Misery, Joy, Pleasure, Power, Control? In this enlightening conversation with Curtis Morley, you will discover the answer. Curtis is an emotionologist, a Wall Street Journal Best Selling Author, 6x Entrepreneur and founder of Counterfeit Emotions. You will walk away with valuable insights that will help you navigate life's twists and turns with more joy. Discover the One Million Years Of Joy newsletter, get your free joy profile and participate in our global study on joy: https://www.andreeavanacker.com/joy

After 20 years in the corporate world and a life-changing battle with cancer, Mantazh Khanna reinvented herself as a brain coach and holistic health guide. Now pursuing a Ph.D. in Integrative Medicine, she’s blending neuroscience and mindfulness to unlock the mind’s power to heal and thrive. In this episode, Mantazh shares her inspiring journey—and six practical, science-backed tips to boost brain health, reduce stress, and live with unstoppable positivity.

Keith Wakeman, CEO of SuperBetter, shares how dozens of studies show the power of building a mindset that fuels resilience and mental strength by simply playing life like a game. Discover the seven drivers that are foundational to fostering mental wellbeing for youth and young adults and how he believes AI will impact existing and future generations. He also shared tips for parents, educators so we can support and build a more joyful future for people of all ages.

How can you master self-coaching? Dive into the interview with Karen Stein for key insights that can elevate your leadership, productivity and overall fulfillment. After nearly 30 years at Deloitte in Australia, Karen is an executive coach, speaker, and author. Discover the power of feedback loops, intention, purpose, self-awareness, why it’s important to normalize menopause within organizations and key tips for leaders to bring create more engagement.