Self-Help Without Other People Is Just Selfish — and Here's the Science to Prove It | Dan Harris
Summary
Dan Harris is interviewed by Alison Gilbert at the 92nd Street Y, discussing meditation’s PR issues and how to build sustainable habits. He shares personal stories about managing panic disorder, the importance of self-compassion, and using AI for a medical diagnosis. The conversation emphasizes that inner work improves relationships, arguing that self-care enables effective engagement with the world’s challenges rather than serving as selfish indulgence.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Live interview with Alison Gilbert at 92nd Street Y
Meditation's PR problem and the myth of clearing your mind
Behavior change science and micro-moments of mindfulness
Dan Harris as a father: Managing temper and anxiety
Career ambition, panic attacks, and the path to meditation
AI in the workplace: Empowerment vs. replacement
Jewish heritage, skepticism, and mentor Joseph Goldstein
Personal struggles with meditation and the goal of being a better person
The upward spiral: Self-care improving relationships
Sponsors: Quince, Wayfair, and Odoo
Micro-interactions and managing panic disorder in elevators
Self-compassion techniques to silence the inner critic
Coping with overwhelming anxiety and medical options
Sponsors: Monarch Money and ADT
Is meditation self-indulgent? Modeling mindfulness for kids
Sleep hygiene tips and handling insomnia
Surprise messages from friends Bob Woodruff and wife Bianca
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