PODCAST · health
Wellbeing Explained
by Be Well Co
Wellbeing Explained brings in the experts to answer the questions others won't, bust myths, and go deeper into the science of wellbeing.On the podcast, Be Well Co's Head of Research Dr Matthew Iasiello sits down with academics from different fields to unpack their work, the challenges they're facing, and what it actually means for the rest of us. Formerly Researching Happy.For workplace wellbeing practitioners, HR and people and culture teams, psychologists, coaches, and anyone in the wellbeing research space.Made by Be Well Co.
Episodes
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What has Beyond Blue actually achieved? (A lot) | Dr Luke Martin
In this episode Matt speaks with Dr Luke Martin, clinical psychologist, co-founder of Prevention United, and now Clinical Spokesperson and Senior Specialist at Beyond Blue. Matt puts aquestion to him that plenty of people in the sector have quietly (or loudly) asked: what has Beyond Blue actually...
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Uncomfortable truths about wellbeing (and what we can do about it) | Prof Carol Ryff
In this episode Matt speaks with Professor Carol Ryff, whose six-dimensional model of psychological wellbeing has been translated into 40 languages and cited in more than 2,000 publications, and who has led the MIDUS national longitudinal study for 25 years. She explains where the six dimensions...
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Why does wellbeing science ignore the sacred? | A/Prof Vic Counted
In this episode Matt speaks with Associate Professor Vic Counted, a psychologist of religion at Regent University and a faculty affiliate of Harvard's Human Flourishing Program. Vic takes attachment theory, usually used to explain the bond between a child and a parent, and asks what happens when…
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What if work was the solution not the cause of poor wellbeing? | Dr Kat Page
In this episode Matt sits down with Dr Kat Page, organisational psychologist, author of Good Work, and one of the researchers behind the model that sits underneath most workplace mental health strategies in Australia. We get into why fixing the work is only half the job, what the new psychosocial...
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Is it Possible to Live Well with Cancer?
Matt sits down with A/Prof Hannah Wardill, who leads the Supportive Oncology Research Group at the University of Adelaide and SAHMRI, and Natalie Tuckey, a health and clinical psychologist finishing a PhD on multiple myeloma. Together they've spent the past few years taking a wellbeing skills...
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What If Asking the Right Question Could Improve Someone's Wellbeing? | Prof Christian van Nieuwerburgh
Christian van Nieuwerburgh has trained thousands of coaches. He also says he isn't passionate about coaching. Matt asks the professor of coaching and positive psychology at RCSI what he actually cares about, and the answer has more to do with how you show up at school pickup than anything that...
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LIVE from ECPP26: Cleaning up the Mess of Measures in Positive Psychology
In this special episode of Researching Happy, recorded at the European Conference on Positive Psychology in Dublin, Matthew Iasiello from Be Well Co and the University of Adelaide explores one of the most pressing issues in wellbeing science: the fragmented and inconsistent definitions of...
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Flourishing with AI: Virtue Ethics and the Risks of Outsourcing Our Humanity
In this episode of Researching Happy, Dr. Matthew Iasiello speaks with Dr. Anco Peeters, philosopher and cognitive scientist at Radboud University. Anco’s work sits at the intersection of embodied cognition, virtue ethics, human-centered design, and AI — with a focus on care robots, education…
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Building Societies for Human Wellbeing: Stress, Social Conditions, and Flourishing | Dr. Matthew Fisher
In this episode of Researching Happy, host Dr. Matthew Iasiello interviews Dr. Matt Fisher, philosopher, artist, and senior research fellow in public health at Adelaide University. They discuss Fisher’s book How to Create Societies for Human Well-being, which integrates philosophy, psychology…
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Time for a Reset: The Future of Positive Psychology | Prof Aaron Jarden
In this episode of Researching Happy, host Matt welcomes back Professor Aaron Jarden, who recently moved to Perth and took on the role of Associate Dean (Postgraduate) in the School of Education at Edith Cowan University (ECU). Aaron discusses his leadership approach, which emphasizes enabling...
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Are We Preventing Suicide in One Room and Assisting It in Another? A/Prof Kristin Collier
We all agree that something is deeply wrong with how we die today. In many modern healthcare systems, death feels over-medicalised, isolating, and often stripped of meaning, dignity, and human connection. No one is defending the status quo.Yet on the deeply contentious issue of assisted dying, we...
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Compassion Isn't Weak or Soft, but What Is It? | A/Prof James Kirby
In this heartfelt and practical conversation, Matt sits down with Associate Professor James Kirby — clinical psychologist, Director of Clinical Psychology Programs at the University of Queensland, and co-director of the Compassionate Mind Research Group. James is a leading expert in Compassion...
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The Engineer Who Built a Single Network of Every Wellbeing Concept | Dr Reuben Rusk
In this insightful interview, Ruben Rusk shares his unique approach to understanding wellbeing through network analysis, emphasizing systemic factors, the importance of systemic change, and the limitations of current measurement practices in positive psychology. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and...
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Beyond symptom reduction: wellbeing in psychosis research | A/Prof Ana Blasco-Belled & Kiira Sarasjärvi
This engaging conversation explores the integration of wellbeing into psychiatric research and practice, highlighting innovative approaches, systemic challenges, and future directions in mental health care. Paper discussed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41253742/ Key topics Integration of...
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061 - BACK in 2026
Matt shares an update on his busy start to the year, focusing on his work in mental wellbeing, cancer research, and prevention initiatives. He reflects on the evolution of wellbeing concepts from PERMA to more integrated models, and seeks listener input on a personal anecdote about balancing...
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060 - Researching Unhappy: The Harsh Reality of Research Funding in Australia | Dr Shane Huntington CEO of Australian Society of Medical Research
In this episode, Dr. Shane Huntington discusses the challenges faced by early career researchers in the health research sector, particularly regarding funding applications. He highlights the significant decrease in success rates for grants, the importance of communication skills in grant writing,...
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059 - We need to rehumanize the workplace | Dr Denise Quinlan
In this conversation, Dr. Denise Quinlan discusses her journey in positive psychology, emphasizing the importance of context, cultural sensitivity, and the need for a human-centric approach in workplaces. She critiques the current state of wellbeing science, advocating for collaboration with…
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058 - Why don't governments take wellbeing seriously? Diane Bowles & Dr Kate Sollis
In this episode, Dr. Matthew Iasiello engages in a critical conversation with Diane Bowles and Dr. Kate Sollis about the importance of wellbeing in policy and the challenges faced in promoting it in Australia. They discuss the Measuring What Matters framework, the role of government, and the...
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057 - Facebook VP to Stand-up Comedy: a search for reasonable happiness | Paul Ollinger
In this engaging conversation, Paul Ollinger shares his unique journey from being a Facebook executive to a stand-up comedian, exploring the intersections of happiness, purpose, and societal expectations. He reflects on the impact of wealth on happiness, the importance of belonging, and the...
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056 - The Science of Wellbeing, Resilience, and Health | Prof Claudia Trudel-Fitzgerald
In this episode, Dr Matthew Iasiello speaks with A/Prof Claudia Trudel-Fitzgerald about her research in psychological, social, and behavioral determinants of mental health. Prof Trudel-Fitzgerald is Assistant Professor of Psychology at Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, with an appointment as…
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055 - WHO gets to define flourishing? And what are the stakes? | Professor Sarah Willen
In this conversation, Professor Sarah Willen discusses the role of anthropology in understanding flourishing and wellbeing. Dr Willen is Professor of Anthropology at the University of Connecticut and Co-Director of the Research Program on Global Health and Human Rights at the university’s Human...
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054 - Self-care redefined, balancing the system and individual responsibility | Prof Narelle Lemon
In this episode of "Researching Happy," Dr. Matthew Iasiello sits down with Professor Narelle Lemon, a leading expert in education and positive psychology, to explore the intricate balance between self-care and professional demands. They delve into the challenges faced by educators, the…
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053 - How grateful parents can transform family dynamics | A/Prof Katherine Nelson-Coffey
In this episode of Researching Happy, Dr. Matthew Iasiello is joined by Dr. Katherine Nelson Coffey, an Associate Professor at Arizona State University and a leading expert in positive psychology. They discuss the impact of parenting on well-being, the importance of parental happiness, and how...
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052 - A Call to Action for Positive Psychology | Prof Mike Steger
In this episode of Researching Happy, Dr. Matthew Iasiello sits down with Professor Mike Steger, a leading voice in positive psychology from Colorado State University, to explore the future of well-being science. They dive into Mike’s recent paper, Regenerative Positive Psychology: A Call to...
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051 - Stop Phubbing Up Our Happiness: Smartphones, Social Connection, and School Bans | Dr Carli Ochs
In Episode 51 of Researching Happy, host Dr Matthew Iasiello engages Dr. Carli Ochs, a postdoctoral researcher at Georgetown University’s Happy Tech Lab, in a lively discussion about the impact of smartphones on social wellbeing. Dr. Ochs, fresh from her PhD in Switzerland, explores "phubbing"...
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E50! DEBATE: Are we LYING to ourselves in Positive Psychology? Prof Todd Kashdan, Dr Eri Mountbatten-O'Malley & Dr Matthew Iasiello
In this milestone 50th episode of Researching Happy, Dr. Matthew Iasiello hosts a dynamic debate with Prof. Todd Kashdan and Dr. Eri Mountbatten-O’Malley on the state of positive psychology. Titled “Are We Lying to Ourselves in Positive Psychology?”, the discussion critiques the field’s…
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049 - Could pro-social behaviour be the FOURTH psychological need? A/Prof Frank Martela
Learn about the fascinating career of A/Prof Frank Martela. We cover: Frank's unique academic journey The inspiration for his work on purpose and pro-social behaviour His experiences working with Prof Richard Ryan and the effort to test whether Beneficence could be the fourth human psychological...
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048 - How can we avoid positive psychology's blindspots? Empathetic collaboration | A/Prof Mark Fabian
Dr Mark Fabian is an associate professor of public policy at the University of Warwick and an affiliate researcher at the Bennett Institute for Public Policy at Cambridge University. He is an area specialist (well-being) rather than a discipline specialist, which we discuss throughout the…
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047 - Mental health crisis, politicians asleep: commentary on the Australian Federal budget | Dr Stephen Carbone
In this episode of Research Happy, we dive into Australia’slatest federal budget and its implications for mental health with Dr. Stephen Carbone, a seasoned mental health advocate and former GP. Recorded on April 3, 2025, Dr. Carbone shares his candid disappointment with the budget’s lack…
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046 - The Wellbeing Revolution in Europe, social safety nets, and the Easterlin paradox | Dr Kelsey O'Connor
Kelsey J. O’Connor is a Senior Researcher in the Economics of Well-Being with STATEC Research (part of the national statistics office of Luxembourg). He serves as Associate Editor (economics) for the Journal of Happiness Studies, and on the Executive Board of the International Society for...
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045 - LIVE from SPSP: A taxonomy and item bank of positive mental health | Dr Matthew Iasiello
Dr Matthew Iasiello's live presentation from the 2025 Society for Personality and Social Psychology We agree mental health is more than the absence of mental illness... but what is it? It was an honour to give an invited talk at the Society for Personality and Social Psychology Annual Convention…
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044 - Does wellbeing have a marketing problem? Celebrating the LAUNCH of Be Well Co’s LANGUISHING campaign
Welcome to Episode 44 of Researching Happy. This is a special episode of the show, as we celebrate the launch of Be Well Co’s Face of Languishing Campaign. Dr Matthew Iasiello is joined by Amy Smith and returning guest Dr Joep van Agteren, as they discuss the marketing problem that so many people...
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043 - The hidden truth about mental health | Dr Matthew Iasiello
Welcome to Episode 43, Matt walks through the dual-continua model of mental health, which suggests that mental illness and mental wellbeing are separate, yet related, concepts. Starting with a clip from the Bad Friends podcast, Matt discusses the controversy around the relationship between mental...
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042 - New Year Same Me? Setting consistent habits for achievable goals | Dr Naomi Kakoschke
Listen to Dr Naomi Kakoschke from CSIRO on Researching Happy talking us through reliable ways to set consistent habits for achievable goal setting. We discuss the common pitfalls that let us down when it comes to goal setting and New Year's resolutions. Show notes: Find paper and app-based habit...
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041 - Why is wellbeing science like the UFC?
Why is wellbeing science like cage fighting? Find out here! Dr Matthew Iasiello reflects on the passing on some wellbeing science leaders in 2024, the differences and similarities between wellbeing science and the UFC, and considers the criteria for future leaders for the field. Link to Todd's...
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040 - Childhood maltreatment is a public health emergency | Dr Lucy Grummitt
Welcome to Episode 40. We are fortunate to have the very impressive Dr Lucy Grummit from the University of Sydney. We recorded this on just one of those days, nothing was going right, but fortunately Lucy carried us through with grace. Lucy is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Matilda Centre...
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039 - Flourishing at the end of life (and dying) | Dr Xavier Symons
Episode 39 of Researching happy. I’m Matthew Iasiello, trying to bring you the latest ideas and evidence in wellbeing research, direct from the academics who create it. Dr Xavier SIMMONS is a Director of the Plunkett Centre for Ethics at ACU. Prior to this, he was a Postdoctoral Research Fellow…
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038 - Neural mechanisms that promote resilience to trauma | A/Prof Sanne van Rooij
This episode is our first step into Neuroscience with Assistant Professor Sanne van Rooij from the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University, and investigator and Associate Director of Scientific Outreach at the Grady Trauma Project. Her research aims to identify...
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037 - Concept creep and the inflation of mental health language | Prof Nick Haslam
This Matthew Iasiello and Episode 37 of Researching Happy, a podcast focused on the latest science on mental health and wellbeing, DIRECT from the researcher who product it. I’m trying something different where every episode will focus on one research paper, this will help keep me a bit on track,...
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036 - Mental health literacy and priorities for prevention
Join the JOURNAL CLUB www.researchinghappy.com Prof Tony Jorm is an Emeritus Professor at the University of Melbourne and NHMRC Leadership Fellow. His research focuses on building the community’s capacity for prevention and early intervention with mental disorders. Prof Jorm is the author of 37...
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035 - What happens when you use the right methodology | A/Prof Mohsen Joshanloo
Join the JOURNAL CLUB at www.researchinghappy.com/home Dr Mohsen Joshanloo is an Associate Professor in Psychology at Keimyung University, South Korea. He is a personality psychologist and cross-cultural psychologist, and has dedicated his career to understanding mental well-being and the role of...
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E.34 Disillusioned about prevention? I want to hear from you!
Quick update from Matt - really looking for feedback!!
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E33. We MASSIVELY undervalue mental health | James Lathe
Matt sits down with James Lathe, who is an exciting prospect for the future of mental health economics. This conversation is mostly Matt getting overexcited, with James tempering expectations. We walk through James' first PhD paper, published in Lancet Psychiatry available here:...
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E32. Wellbeing as the core role of economics | Prof Arthur Grimes
Learn more from an expert of economics and wellbeing, Professor Arthur Grimes. Find more information on Arthur's work here: https://www.motu.nz/about-us/people/arthur-grimes/ And a copy of his paper on Freedom of Speech and Wellbeing:...
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E31. Implementing mental wellbeing promotion | Prof Margaret Barry
https://phaa.eventsair.com/QuickEventWebsitePortal/preventive-mental-health-symposium/website
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E30. Next steps for a stronger positive psychology | A/Prof Aaron Jarden
Welcome to Episode 30 of Researching Happy. This week we chat with Associate Professor Aaron Jarden of the University of Melbourne Centre for Wellbeing Science. Aaron is a great friend of the show and we have a fantastic wide-ranging conversation. We talk about the International Journal of...
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E29 | Life Coaching from a Clinical Psychologist? Dr Suzy Green
Welcome to Researching Happy This week we sit down with Dr Suzy Green, CEO and Founder of the Positivity Institute and Adjunct Professor at the University of Technology Sydney. Suzy shares her valuable experience, talking about the early days of Coaching, the differences she experiences as a...
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E28. Aquinas on Happiness | Dean Jennifer Frey
Welcome to Researching Happy with Dr Matthew Iasiello This is the weekly podcast, sharing the stories behind the studies of the wellbeing research world. Welcome to Episode 28. This week we host Professor Jennifer Frey onto the podcast, who is the recently appointed Dean of Honors College at the...
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E23. Designing Eudaimonia using Architecture, Engineering, and the Built Environ | Dr Jenna Mikus
Welcome to Researching Happy with Dr Matthew Iasiello This is the weekly podcast all about the stories behind the studies of the happiness and wellbeing research world. Welcome to Episode 23. This is an exciting example of us learning about efforts to improve wellbeing coming from other fields…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Wellbeing Explained brings in the experts to answer the questions others won't, bust myths, and go deeper into the science of wellbeing.On the podcast, Be Well Co's Head of Research Dr Matthew Iasiello sits down with academics from different fields to unpack their work, the challenges they're facing, and what it actually means for the rest of us. Formerly Researching Happy.For workplace wellbeing practitioners, HR and people and culture teams, psychologists, coaches, and anyone in the wellbeing research space.Made by Be Well Co.
HOSTED BY
Be Well Co
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How many episodes does Wellbeing Explained have?
Wellbeing Explained currently has 77 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Wellbeing Explained about?
Wellbeing Explained brings in the experts to answer the questions others won't, bust myths, and go deeper into the science of wellbeing.On the podcast, Be Well Co's Head of Research Dr Matthew Iasiello sits down with academics from different fields to unpack their work, the challenges they're...
How often does Wellbeing Explained release new episodes?
Wellbeing Explained has 77 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
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Who hosts Wellbeing Explained?
Wellbeing Explained is created and hosted by Be Well Co.
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