Dr. Arthur Brooks On Success, Happiness & Deep Purpose | Rich Roll Podcast

Harvard Professor & Atlantic columnist Arthur Brooks joins Rich to talk about cultivating happiness as you age, redefining success, and living a meaningful life. To read more about Arthur and peruse the full show notes, go here👉🏾bit.ly/richroll683
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FILMED AND EDITED BY BLAKE CURTIS & DAN DRAKE
www.blakecurtis.net/
www.dandrake333.com/
00:00:00 - Intro
00:02:35 - Spiritual Practice in India, Dalai Lama, Love & Metacognition
00:08:09 - Arthur's Background Primer on Searching for Happiness
00:15:13 - How Anticipation for a "Reward" Relates to Addiction
00:17:46 - The Satisfaction Paradox & The Fluid Intelligence Curve
00:20:31 - Being on the Declining Side of the Fluid Intelligence Curve
00:24:49 - Examples of Charles Darwin, Gregor Mendel & J.S. Bach
00:30:38 - AD BREAK
00:32:30 - The Transition Between Fluid and Crystallized Intelligences
00:36:42 - Rich & Arthur Confront Their Current Pursuits
00:45:32 - It All Has to Do with Love
00:48:38 - We Tend to Over-index on Work and Don't Invest in Faith, Family & Friends
00:56:10 - AD BREAK
00:57:45 - How to Define Happiness - Satisfaction, Enjoyment, Meaning + Purpose
01:04:10 - Happiness in Three Steps - Do the Work, Practice It, and Share It
01:06:19 - Lack of Age Diversity in the Work Force
01:10:21 - How Receptive are Arthur's Students to His Teachings
01:12:38 - What Is Your Death Fear?
01:19:02 - Satisfaction = Have / Want
01:20:43 - What Is Your Idol?
01:26:19 - The Importance of Forming a Transcendental Walk
01:33:23 - Giving & Generosity
01:37:12 - Advice for Wanting Less
01:41:46 - Giving Away Parts of Your Identity
01:49:07 - The Practice of Discernment
01:58:13 - Closing Remarks
* * * * *
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Hi I'm Rich Roll. I'm a vegan ultra-endurance athlete, author, podcaster, public speaker & wellness evangelist. But mainly I'm a dad of four. If you want to know more, visit my website or check out these two the NY Times articles:
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[@MissAmberlee1]

For all the flaws of the internet and how it can be a wasteland of nothingness, the fact that I'm able to find content like this, listening to it on a Sunday afternoon while doing laundry and making dinner for my kids, makes me immensely grateful for technology. Having just turned 40 and having spent the last 10 years re-raising myself because my childhood didn't teach me the necessary things to be an adult. Having access to content that empowers and explains how to grow, is beyond measure. Namaste

[@m_c_d]

❤

[@ah3738]

Oh i hear you loud and clear. Me too turned 40... this year. What you said resonated sooo much. ❤❤

[@donnakreye3716]

Sooooooo well SAID!!!!

[@famzini4424]

same!

[@conqueralcoholism]

Amen Amberlee I feel you

[@rainguynw]

Seek peace. Happiness will then come to you on its own. This guy is talking to the 20%. Not the 1% (thank god) but not to the masses. And that is okay as long as it is acknowledged and authentic. As I age, I find myself increasingly disturbed by the public "angst" of wealthy professionals and the ever-increasing bandwidth devoted to the latest "navel gazing hack." I had a rewarding career that I gave up gracefully when the time came. I now seek to further develop compassion and wisdom. I am overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude and astonishment at my luck in life. So much of the world is seeking basic human needs--food, clean water, housing. And I'm supposed to worry and work on finding new ways to be "fulfilled?" On his next trip to India, Mr. Brooks should avoid the "Indian billionaires" and gurus and spend some time with the poor--the lepers, the marginalized. Talk to them about fluid and crystalized intelligence.

[@lisalowrey2230]

Only about half way through the pod cast. The idea about reframing the second half of your life is compelling. However, as a woman in this same age group who has been caretaking a home, animals, children and family for decades, I actually want some time to withdraw from the things you are urging men to connect with again, and be alone. High powered careers are not the only path to burnout.

[@haileypeterson989]

Amen. All I can say

[@connieroche6564]

I agree. I'm 74 and this was so inspiring.

[@stephdoyle22]

I hope you are able to make that time and space for yourself. It gets quiet quickly when the caretaking is over. Fill it with you! From someone on the other side now. Peace and love.

[@janekelley2001]

I am feeling this need to reframe. As 58 yr old woman who has cared for my home, husband, children of others, and cats and dogs....I also need to care for myself.

[@judiwalters6197]

Thanks Lisa - under these circumstances, the 'woman' in the house often has a career cut short by family commitments - and as a 'striver' perhaps never feels she has reached her poteintial before fluid intelligence begins to wane ... I wonder how the perspectives presented here can be useful in this situation. Any ideas?

[@m-1734]

In respect of the Men's Shed Clubs, this is a voluntary organisation in Ireland in recognition of the fact that there are few social opportunities for men in contrast with so many social groups available to women. Men's shed groups have proven to be a life-changing experience for so many men who are coping with the isolation and loneliness experienced during retirement, widowhood or having little or no social, family connection in life. Few have wives who 'drop them off'. Through this group men find connection, a sense of community and purpose, perhaps develop a new skill or rekindle a past hobbie, all experienced in a fun environment with the cup of tea and a biscuit and a lot of Irish banter, laughter and craic.....

[@jayr2664]

This is one of those podcasts that you have to listen to multiple times to have a better grasp and appreciate the little lightbulb moments in the conversation ❤️❤️❤️

[@greg1reed1]

Yes. I’m on my third listen and I’ve taken a bunch of notes this time

[@RichardAlsenz]

@@greg1reed1 It is going to take an enormous amount of time to span the gap between mathematics and Physics. Realizing that Euclid included this absurd assumption is where the problem begins. It was not understood by Euclid, Newton, Einstein, and all the other physicists excluding Gauss, and I that space is not a rational concept. Bessel to Gauss Koenigsberg 10 February 1829 {… I would protest loudly if you were to allow “the cry of the Bocetians” to thwart the working out of your geometry views. From what Lambert has said, and what Schweikart told me, it has become clear that our geometry is incomplete and needs a correction which is hypothetical and which disappears if the sum of the angles of a triangle = 180o. The latter would be the real geometry, the Euclidean one, which practically, at least for figures on the earth …..} Gauss to Bessel Goettingen 9 April 1830 … The ease with which you delved into my views on geometry gives me real joy, given that so few have an open mind for such. My innermost conviction is that the study of space is a priori completely different than the study of magnitudes; our knowledge of the former (space) is missing that complete conviction of necessity (thus of absolute truth) that is characteristic of the latter; we must in humility admit that if number is merely a product of our mind.

[@saranyaharikrishnan6975]

​@@greg1reed1my thinking mind is not now I have been a number I have not been able to get out of my

[@DrProgNerd]

The reverse-bucket-list really struck a chord with me. A few years ago I started to look at the world through a minimalist-lens. I found that in contemplating the value of physical things - to see if they should have a place in my life - I started to consider the value of all things in my life: habits, opinions, pet-peaves. I forced myself to consider what it would take to make me happy - and of course you can't know what road to take until you know where you are going - which forced me to consider what happiness looked like to me. The simple mental-exercise of decluttering is leading me to a place of peace. The more I rid myself of things of less value, the more I value the things that remain. I still have a massive amount of 'work' to do - but I am so grateful for my life - and the people and things in it. I'm especially appreciative of this interview. Thank you both for this.

[@martadahlstrom8139]

So true. Uncluttering things is saying I can let it go of the storage it holds in my brain and heart. Now I have more time for children, grandchildren, friends and experiences.

[@robertbruceryan]

Brilliant observations. Thank you.

[@Razainthewoods]

Amen!! I am decluttering and it is energizing me and freeing!

[@dawn7220]

I find that I'm not seeking happiness, I want to be content. I enjoy the relationships with my family, friends, and my career is one of service. It's not perfect, but I'm content.

[@kate60]

Contentment makes one at peace with all.

[@ayeshatripty]

Alhamdulillah

[@hissyfitz7890]

I’m giggling to myself as I listen to this & think of how absurd MOST of it is for me at 70. It’s like the paper he wrote on mathematics that he can’t understand anymore. Life has its own stages of understanding & acceptance. The pandemic was a gift to me in that it allowed unfulfilling relationships to pass gently & allowed rest, reflection, quietude. Methinks the type A’s have a difficult time recognizing that we are human BEINGS not human doings. He has a great sounding voice, an articulate vocabulary & ‘likes’ being called out 🤭 but I gotta give props to his wife. 😉

[@julianajones4022]

Old school cool school 😂

[@toomylight2311]

Happiness to me is fleeting moment that comes and goes . Contentment is the better word for me . better state of mind .

[@gregbiggs419]

I have attempted to meditate many times in my life and prior to this CD the only success I've experienced is with live guided meditation. kzbin.infoUgkxzpa8CIfZcihW4Z0F_ja0QF3W9KIatrsq This is the first CD I've used that cuts through my unmedicated ADHD and enables me to truly relax and experience a quiet and energizing interval. The instructors voice is very soothing and pleasant to listen to. I am easily able to sit successfully through the entire CD, and for quite some time after. I cannot adequately express how tremendously helpful this CD has been on my spiritual journey!! Two thumbs up and 10 stars!

[@n8sterling727]

This is an absolute gem of an episode. Im 33 and feeling so lost. I had a TBI in 2019 that was a direct result of my using, but Im remain clean and sober since..had that moment of clarity. I need to do something drastically different with my life starting asap. Been a long road but Im still on for the ride. Ive been finding alot of comfort in some of the writings of Thomas Merton. New seeds of Contemplation especially. Fan of the show and the encouragement I get from it is priceless.

[@michellehall2715]

Stay strong keep moving forward, I myself am 1 year sober it's a wonderful new lease on life!!!

[@noemisaid9162]

Nate , you are not alone …keep going and put focus only on the beautiful things that happened to you even though you have only one a week , the. You will see that day by day you realice you start feeling happy !! Stay good

[@MrMusic238]

Fellow 33 year old feeling lost. You have my utmost empathy

[@deanslattery4567]

I turned 33 as well this year and have been sober 4 months. Conversations like this definitely provoke my interest in stoicism and to live a more virtuous life. I empathize with the feeling lost being that I couldn’t see a vision of the future with my intake of alcohol. With clarity and taking this new change a day at a time, stoic philosophy says eudaemonia can be achieved which is defined as happiness or good spirit.

[@nadiasingh8700]

Hope you’re doing well on your journey 🙏. Sending best wishes from Toronto

[@fars7463]

Happiness is the byproduct of doing enjoyable and challenging activities. There is no direct way to be happy... I gave up looking TO BE happy long time ago. I became the happiness it self.

[@robinharris4247]

Pain and struggle help you evolve. Just like working out makes you stronger, pain and struggle make you mentally stronger and let you know what you are capable of over comming.

[@ricvanwinkle1665]

Financial freedom was a big part of my happiness. I came from nothing and made it all on my own. Self education is a must and having gratitude for what you have is critical. I never look at the other guy and focus on myself. Great show fellas

[@mrelixirgalactic]

Coming alive to myself is my current stage! 💪🏽💯🙏🏽 I’m making sure to live, not just be alive!

[@joannerossi8941]

Wow. Earth shattering. I’m buying this book. I peaked early. Lawyer w/ a big Manhattan firm at 24. CEO. But I’m not happy. I thought it was all over. But to hear I can pivot and there may be a part 2 for me at 52. Finally a light. Thank you.

[@haroldkatcher1369]

"scores of beautiful and brilliant people with amazing stories to share". A "score" is twenty - so twenties of brilliant and beautiful people among billions of others.

[@farhadmahmud4726]

Dr. Brooks is such a good speaker! Rich Roll is such an excellent conversationalist! Great podcast, as always.

[@CassieDavis613]

Your guest is quite a name-dropper

[@Edward-sc7cm]

Good careers are not the only way to get burnt out, responsibilities of taking care of kids and other family members are also path to burnout and after 50 one needs to change path for self care...

[@Razainthewoods]

Service is such an energy giving experience! I’m 55 and spending my free time serving others and it is so liberating. You get to know yourself better when you serve others.

[@soultrekotc6635]

Having just turned 61 I am so happy to listen to podcasts address my time in life. Rich never disappoints. First time exposed to Dr. Brooks and his previous guest on modern elder.

[@mirandanandamariavandijk]

It's all about selfknowledge and giving meaning and expression to what matters to you. Selflove is the only love that stays with you forever. It's the core and source of inner peace and content.

[@radioliznerradiolizner8834]

I am as ftx I’ll You uouu

[@gabrielapirvu5178]

I love Rich's honest answer regarding his idol, money is a necessity and a tool to provide your family a better life.

[@charlenethompson6406]

Thank you. In this crazy world, you never cease to amaze at the reality of what really matters and find the most beautiful guests to help us continue in a forward moving motion! It is always an Honour and privilege that we get to listen and learn from you.

[@amindfulcounselor]

Why do we always have to strive? Why not accept what is? Much more pleasant.

[@BeingBongChronicles]

What a beautiful conversation between two self aware individuals. Thank you for adding value to my cognitive space.

[@jordyhall3308]

I'm also 58. I don't notice a lack of fluid intelligence. There again I'm not high powered. I am a cobbler -together of wellbeing strategies. I'm writing my tale . As a carer I worked 350, 000 hours with my sons so the world of work, creativity and business is more fun .

[@stellabandante2727]

You guys are amazing. The clarity and energy in this conversation is mental/emotional nutrition.

[@stinaljungstrom8691]

I always loved close friendships, reflecting and deep thinking, having fun and being creative. Those things and friends, family and travelling makes me happy. When I was younger I loved trying out new creativie things, courses and different jobs; especially creative ones. It's like exploring those areas. After a while I wanted to try something new. I felt very curious and loved learning new skills. I loved my last work because I never got bored with it. It was very creative in so many different areas at the same time. After about ten years there I could not work more, because of an autoimmune illnes that got to bad. That was the first time ever I stayed that long at the same company. It was because it was very creative, new things to soulve and challenging in some aspects, all at the same time. I felt a bit excited all the time. I am not sure that people just get tired in the 40s as mentioned in the video. I think that many who didn't reflect about life and the meaning of it, they do in a certain age. I thinkt they feel every dsy is the same after working many years at the same job. They often have more time to think about what they want when the kods aren't babies anymore. They also see that people they know die; maybe a friend or the parents. It makes you think about your own life, if you didn't do it before. Did you do the things you dreamed of? Sometimes you need to slow down to truly feel, be midful, reflect and and find out what you want. During hectic years you more or less just try to mangage it all. It is time to get to know yourself if you haven't already. ❤️

[@danielleking7537]

This was a fantastic interview! I’ve been going through this since I turned 40 and couldn’t put a finger on it! I loved this! Gives me the courage to be able to think of my career differently

[@joesyogafitness6085]

These guys are great! At 66 I have worked my way off of the crowded path this society has forced most all of us on at the age of 35. The major missing piece is allowing for emotional discharge, which is not seen as valuable. No short cuts to happiness. Each human mind and perspective is immeasurable.

[@susierea7396]

a fantastic book and a great interview. These conversations are so insightful and rich. Thank you for sharing your wisdom!

[@leighburville2717]

I began a career as an artist in 1979 at age 37 and never looked back. I am still excited to create every morning noon and night. Not gifted just followed my own nner curiosity and enthusiasm. Self expression is always a great drive. One secret to a fabulous clean and sober life is to feed curiosity.

[@YR369_]

Dr Brooks is always interesting to listen to, but what makes this interview excelent is the way Rich Roll is conducting it. With so much dedication and serious preparation .... random chit chat podcasts are cool, but this is a true art form ! I listened to Dr. Brooks with Tara Brach, who I also love and respect, but I ve got a completely different impression. Unlike that interview, that was ok , this is the one I am going to come back to over and over . So much respect and gratitude to you, Rich Roll for the way you approach your podcasts !

[@juliemidgley5287]

Absolutely 5 star plus conversation. Truly inspiring and insightful. You both make the world a better place. Thank you for this amazing time spent together.

[@paulajanson8053]

Rich Roll is my favorite podcaster of all time. Because he is by far the best host. I have only ever seen 1 guest/interview that annoyed me. For the most part, it is apolitical and that’s hard to find these days. It’s my go to podcast for de-stressing. This was one of my favorite talks. What a beautiful soul. ❤

[@jobutler2804]

Note: The Mens Sheds are AMAZING - They build the coolest things and often for charity organisations. If you want to learn traditional skills or make or restore something - The Mens Shed do it. These guys have cutting banter and sharp wit and often the Crosses and finial repairs you see in your Catholic Churches have been done in The Mens Shed. They are not sad places, and, in our community we support them. The Shed Men are old, wise and Happy. Definately not sad places where wives drop the Guys off ..... 1 drop of ink.

[@connieroche6564]

Thank you for your honesty and life. I feel the same and your talk reminded me again to do this alone time. This time creates the list. 🎈

[@makaylahollywood3677]

I enjoyed this tremendously. Have you listened to Richard Rohr, Fransican Friar, or read his books, "Falling Upward", talks about the second half of life; contemplation a theme in all his talks.

[@catherinechevalier5153]

Great book 📕 👍

[@workingfrocks5121]

Love Richard Rohr.

[@lynne5322]

Yes. Loved that book. 🙂

[@susantaylor961]

Really like you, Rich. This guy ‘Arthur Brooks’ is so full of himself. He can’t compare to Jay Shetty.

[@Ron20042004]

I didn’t see it. Cheer up Susan!

[@paulasiverinobavio7273]

One of my favourites episodes ever ❤🎉 Arthur is pure gold 👏🙌

[@haileypeterson989]

#1 Spirituality/God ☺️ #2 Close Relationships #3 Home Environment #4 Learning #5 Creativity & Design This was a great exercise to ponder....in fact there are probably things I didn't think of. 🤔 How about you guys?

[@labanyamoybarmn3483]

Mera nahi laptops hi nahi computers hi mei eisa gaw me reheta hu nahi network hi nahi bijli sohi somoy me reheta hi mei mobile se kam korta hu 22,,34,,42 hours continue avi aplogka time morning 6,00 am right wrong Riply plz 0ky

[@vanhoudtshoorn]

Beautiful, deep,authentic and meaningful conversation.Very informative too. Thank you both. Have learn't so much

[@user-jv6jk1pq4u]

Listening to this conversation in my mid to late 30's I realize I need more of this in my life. Unfortunately I have no idea where to find this kind of people with this kind of interests and openness in my area.

[@robinfletcher6718]

"give away parts of your identity, opinions...." GOLD.

[@lisengel2498]

I love your conversation - moving from the experienced and very analytical into the wisdom of spiritual understanding ❤️❤️❤️

[@evanhill9890]

Great info for me and my father. We are both going blind and looking for ways to get and stay happy.

[@benjaminwesercreative]

much love from Sydney, your podcast has been part of my life for years now. thank you so much for being you and inspiring others

[@stevrgrs]

Hahaha the very reason I'm listening to this is because of acknowledging my "decline" at 41. Now I work in a rehab and constantly get to teach guys all the skills I've acquired :) It's always a different day and when a kid comes in that I can learn from I love it !

[@krzysztofmathews738]

This is an incredible discussion. Exactly what I need to hear right now.

[@bretstevens262]

This was an awesome discussion! Great job RRP, as always!

[@GarrettSpring]

Happiness is a butterfly 🦋

[@42kellys]

Thank you. I have learnt some new things and my journey on mindfulness is continuing this way very well.

[@bluegreenOD]

Love these two men oozing crystallised intelligence in action - what’s there not to like about Arthur; Catholic, Buddhist, Vegan, Professor, Think Tank CEO, professional musician, searcher, mentor - all rounder

[@vectorair1]

I May be mistaken but I don’t think Arthur is vegan

[@susanjohnston4066]

Thank you. Fascinating and meaningful!

[@Nadyamantra]

Reading the comments, I felt the same way as others for the first half of this podcast, for sure. But I love listening to Rich so much, he speaks so eloquently is so intelligent and can synthesise what a guest says and means so that there is a lot to take away from this if you persist. Dr. Brooks speaks really fast and with a cadence that is unfamiliar to my ear ( one commenter said Silicon Valley ) and it could be that it is suited to 20 year olds in a college class. But I found some gems here in the analysis this guest has examined in his profession and is sharing. Maybe I should have slowed the audio to 3/4s.

[@famzini4424]

such a huge aha moment at minute 34! I never knew that there were 2 kinds of intelligence: fluid and crystallized and being the latter I never understood why I was how I was (feel like I am born an elder) and I am in my 40s now, now I know what I knew all along that I am just gathering info to be used in the second part of my life! Rich and Arthur, thank you for giving us access to such immense wisdom that a lot of us would not otherwise have!

[@MEMann-mi1tj]

I agree with the woman who said this is such a male oriented commentary. It felt like just morphing the goal/achieve/reward to another chapter. What about the problems of confidence ... that you feel you have nothing to teach, that your relationships are fdd as ilures despite all you put into them.

[@SouthFloridasRestaurantGuy]

Saw you on Klavan and am now going down the rabbit hole. Six months into recovery and the faith family service purpose mode is my new mantra. Thank you gentlemen. 🙏

[@ianlock1330]

Love your talks. You sound so enthusiastic, energetic, and happy. There are elements that I need to improve since I am an introvert and don't have a lot of trust in people. I find that many people use others for their own gain.

[@zeynebkebabi2666]

One of the best I've heard in a long time.... Thanks to both of you!!!

[@RichardAlsenz]

This is a fascinating conversation, and I have not completed listening to it, but I certainly will. I want to share an experience at the university level. I am a theoretical physicist and had a problem understanding my first-grade teacher as she taught us how to count. I am autistic and always sat at the back of the classroom. Mrs. Scott (my first-grade teacher) taught us to count our fingers, but my mother had taught me at a very young age to count in a rhythmic manner. Mrs. Scott counted the fingers on one hand and then the second hand; she held her hands behind her back and said, " This is the number zero:?( Of course, a counting number can not be 0 without designating it as such. So this issue is problematic in mathematics:?) It is not allowed in the scientific method (Physics), and most physicists do not understand the irrational issue. Euclid made an absurd assumption that precludes any use of Euclid like geometries i,e,, a point has no part:?( Mrs. Scott gave me Cs on every grade card. My numerical analysis teacher informed us we would not need a textbook because we would be writing it. He gave us the first homework and said he would assign the next homework when someone could prove it. I solved the first homework in fifteen minutes and continued that every class period until the last two, which were presented by two other students. I had been concerned that the class was not learning, but when the final grades were published, the class had done extraordinarily. I realized that I needed to do the same exercise on physics at the age of 70. I have rewritten all of physics; I am now 78:?) Stating by throwing Euclid, Newton, and Einstien in the trash bag. I am sure we are going to have some interesting conversations. None of the mathematics can pass the scientific method test. The reason is this irrational absurdity junk. Scientists must be based on human observation. Postulation is not based on human observations. Postulates are statements that are assumed to be true without proof. Postulates serve two purposes - to explain undefined terms and to serve as a starting point for proving other statements. Two points determine a line segment, and a line segment can be extended indefinitely along a line. .

[@sandram6913]

Thank you so much!

[@suzannemichelemorton]

this is a great video. And whilst i took quite a few notes, a reoccuring theme for me - in these types of videos, no one seems to discuss step one... how and where to start. that to me is the most difficult. when you are 'blown' and in brain fog.... i guess here - my key interest is his comments about visiting India a few times a year, how does one find a great guru in India? where does one start if you are completely 'burned out' of life and can't find purpose or meaning in much of anything?

[@FranciscoArvizu]

This is one of my Favs of all time.

[@trinitydane]

Rich! You have done it again! I am drawn to your podcast and your guest! Great Guest. Great Job! Thank-You for hosting.

[@csohrab]

Eye opening episode for me. Thx Arthur and Rich for these deep insights.

[@gardencali-arkansasstyle6995]

I gained so much insight from this conversation on happiness. Thank you both👏🏽👏🏽

[@paulf9446]

I enjoyed this one as I pretty much enjoy all of RR’s podcasts. That said, my wife is worried I’m on a path where I will be building birdhouses with other old bitter men in a shed when I’m 60.

[@RP-vn6wy]

Wow you guys! Awesome. You both are truly incredible men. I just found you Rich a couple of weeks ago and I truly wish I knew personally. My husband and myself are thoroughly taken by you in such a incredibly positive way, all as I can say is thank you! Hope one day we meet.

[@nelly99100]

Thank you Rich and Arthur. Managing the top contributors to your happiness was such an insight. Seems intuitive but not often done. I also loved the story of Arthur’s daughter asking him to jump out of a plane with her. I need to manage the relationship with my 12 year old daughter such that she wants to do something equally epic with me in the future. Something that feels unusual but not scary 😟. Keep up the good work. Peace ✌️

[@musiclassica]

The only way that didn’t feel scary is bc he was up there with his kid and as a parent you’ll never want to show your fear. Having a long walk and talk with yr daughter can be just as meaningful, don’t put a strain on yrself of having to do sth epic.

[@subhasisbandyopadhyay1789]

Truly deep wisdom, you chip away versus build ..life will become better post listening this ..

[@johnmichaels893]

Two thoughts 1) I would like to know how he explains the gap between his belief in the supernatural (Roman Catholic) and his identity as a scientist and 2) How he reconciles his “love” for a criminal organization (Roman Catholic Church) while preaching and teaching “happiness”.

[@kate60]

Exactly. The pedophile money hungry false religion. He reconciles is beliefs because it's all false beliefs pasted together. These are very lost egotistical fools. A fool says in his heart there is no God. Everyone is God. This conversation is death.

[@eileenwatt8283]

He might not see the teachings of Catholicism as criminal. The behavior of leaders is where the problem lies not the religion. That goes for all religion. It's interested.

[@jimjenncrowe917]

Speaking as a Catholic here. The Catholic Church does not deny science. It doesn’t, for example, teach that the world is 6,000 years old (as some fundamentalist denominations do). Science seeks to answer one set of questions that are properly explored using scientific methods. Religion explores a different set of questions that can’t be fully understood with scientific method. Science can provide answers about how humans evolved but the question of why we are here and how we are meant to relate to each other and the rest of creation - that belongs to the realm of philosophy and religion. Also as a Catholic- the laity and almost all clergy (the innocent ones) are mad as hell about the scandals but the hierarchy is not the faith. It’s hurt so many and the fallout will continue for many years to come. Where there are humans there will be good and evil (which should be exposed to the light whenever found). I try to keep my eyes on the most central elements of the faith, call bs when I see it, and leave the rest by the curb.

[@lilishippe7571]

Rich Roll is such a great host!

[@amaliachifa3495]

Loved it. 💗 thanks 🙏

[@emilyferrell03217]

Exceptional work @ both of you!! I Loved this conversation, very insightful!

[@littleflor2975]

This man looks very sad and lost. He's on a quest to find happiness. What a life.

[@eminemoscar1]

I am thinking of the great American writer, David Foster Wallace. His fluid intelligence was off the charts, and it seems that, at the end of his life, he struggled terribly to recapture the brilliance of his masterpiece, “Infinite Jest”. And it wasn’t the first time - he already had such crippling doubts in his twenties after his first book was published. I wish he could have absorbed a message such as Brooks’ and lived many more fruitful years, and I wish the same of everyone struggling w/ a sense of inadequacy.

[@denisevjc4859]

Brooks‘s God replacement was pretty obvious. The information he shared was still very helpful and insightful. Thank you.

[@vickiegordon1959]

I've not yet finished this. It is making me think too much. Knowing that my ability to be my best and sharpest self is in a downward trajectory is depressing. It reminds me of "Flowers for Algernon". I hope the rest can help me shift this perspective into something positive.

[@Love2uandme]

Powerful bit about facing what we experience as our death. Exposure. Thanks.

[@Andrea-Rose]

Thank you!

[@joellen6105]

FABULOUS INTERVIEW!

[@ShimaBeigi]

Beautiful podcast. I am so happy to be able to recognise the fluid intelligence peak in my life, leave my academic job, and follow another meaningful path in my life.

[@meli7a-lee]

Arthur Brooks is brilliant. This was so enjoyable to listen to, and I couldn't agree more about accepting the reality of our capabilities as we age and make a change towards where our strengths are, instead of trailing behind those who simply are better placed to do the work. As someone working in tech, I feel this a lot of late. It's extremely heartening to see examples of people who manage to move gracefully through different career paths in mid life and most importantly, enjoy those transitions. Spirituality is a tough one for atheists. Given the source, I'm encouraged to investigate this one a bit more closely though. 🤞🏼

[@RoedhamHouseRanch]

Excellent!!! Loved it! 💖

[@valeriehopebennett]

THANK YOU FOR THIS..SO INCREDIBLE SO MUCH MORE WE CAN LEARN THIS IS WISDOM AND I YEARN FOR MORE ..BE BLESSED IN LOVE

[@sho0508]

I am 21 and I feel like this might be something I need in the future

[@averageboy5]

Rich Roll, great interview with Dr. Arthur! Very informative on the subject of agency and human happiness. I honestly think you're by far one of if not the best interviewer of this generation! Authentic and loaded with substance! Truly epic delivery Rich, keep (Roll)ing with the punches (btw no pun intended)

[@danalexander186]

None of my family and friends answer back.. and I’m stumped as to why.. It’s not always that easy..

[@anne-marieh6128]

Love The Results of (both of )your efforts-

[@diegonayalazo]

Thanks for sharing

[@PaulLadendorf]

That was amazing!

[@stevrgrs]

Also, Darwin was not a success on his own. He is actually a perfect example of how wealth affords someone the ability to question things (whether wrong or not) His dad was a physician and he married into the Wedgewood family. He was not a self made man by far. If anything he was handicapped from the start by other men in his life that had accomplished a TON. Wedgewood especially (overcoming a physical handicap to become one of the most famous potters in history) :)

[@marypatfitzgibbons7577]

I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation. Very personal for my. I'm 70 and trying to figure out what to do with the last third of my life. I'm really struggling with creating a coaching biz that isn't happening. Thinking about that second curve in life. Thank you. I'll check out your book.

[@awestphal9602]

I like Arthur’s emphasis on Love and his point that it can be more than an emotional expression. In addition, his sense that Love (actually unconditional love) can include a mental or decision aspect or switch. I also like Arthur’s reference to the challenges of life as a model or matrix - a construct of similar experiences or challenges common to many. As I see it, Arthur has articulated a method of surviving in the human consciousness which is the task most humans face during life in this physical world. For those in this state, making it though life in the most constructive and productive manner and with minimal pain and maximum joy is important, and having wise individuals providing instruction on how it can best be achieved is admirable. However, this is what is missing: (1) there are other states of consciousness higher (greater) than the human consciousness; (2) life in the physical world was not designed to be stress free and happy. Rather the human consciousness is eventually supposed to be shed (rejected) as the individual moves from the human consciousness (ego - a manufactured creation) into a higher state; (3) the pain and sense of dissatisfaction experienced even by successful individuals is that inner sense or recognition that something in life has been missed. That something is the rejection of the human consciousness and all that it requires to function, and being accepted into the next higher state through realization and grace. In that higher state of consciousness, we find an ocean of love within us and no longer need to seek a few drops of love flowing from the hearts of humans. In summary, life on this planet is designed to be unsatisfying so that we seek and recognize the qualities for the great return. Suggested reading: The Tigers Fang by Paul Twitchell and books by Michael Newton, Ph.D.

[@Elimbi1]

Wouldn't that encourage people to kill themselves to shortcut their way to higher consciousness?

[@JohnBrown-ux4dx]

Super inspiring thanks so much

[@monikapandey8792]

Lovely this one is worth taking notes....to do the work needed to age gracefully and leave blissfully ❤️✨️😇

[@knutolavedland3688]

This is a episode really hit me. now around new year, and I have listning to it twice and really enjoy to try some of it, Starting with revers bucket list.