Explore every episode of the podcast Hack Your Happiness
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gain Confidence From Rejection & Criticism: Wakanda's Oscar-Winning Costume Designer Ruth E. Carter | 03 Jul 2025 | 01:00:38 | |
She made history as the first Black woman to win an Oscar Award for costume design — and she did it twice. Ruth E. Carter is the visionary behind the unforgettable costumes of Black Panther, Malcolm X, and Do the Right Thing. This week, she’s joining Mercedes and Anastasia for an inspiring conversation about changing your path (initially, Ruth wanted to be a teacher!), resilience, and telling powerful stories through design. Ruth gets deep about:
Whether you dream of a creative career or simply want to hear from one of Hollywood’s most trailblazing artists, this episode will leave you feeling braver, bolder, and ready to design your own path. Get your Manta Sleep Mask: Shop Now Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with 4x Oscar-winning Costume Designer, Catherine Martin. In this episode, Catherine unveils her hacks for a happy lifestyle, work-life balance, and her guide to feeling more confident: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0U5IjZZnu6KzYSVbkWP9Vw?si=hnzcLPFOTZy5M4mpL9la-g (00:00) Intro (02:42) How Ruth Got Started (05:56) How Ruth Switched Life Trajectories (09:22) Want To Make A Life Change? Do THIS First! (10:15) What Are The Most Important Skills In Costume Design? (13:00) Ruth On Mentorship (16:25) The Lesson Ruth Wished She Had Learned Earlier (20:46) How Does Ruth Blend History & Trends In Her Designs? (27:48) Ruth's Top Tips For Collaboration (31:55) How Can I Handle Criticism? (37:18) Looking To The FUTURE Of Costume Design (AI, 3D Printing, And Beyond) (42:30) How Can I Get Out of A Creative Slump? (45:39) Behind The Scenes: Ruth's Most Challenging Costume (48:17) Ruth's Most Memorable/Crazy Moment On SET! (52:50) Ruth To Her Teen Self (54:40) What Brings Ruth A Small Bit of Happiness? (56:20) Ruth's Motivational Quote (58:40) Key Takeaways | |||
| Stay Authentic When Everyone Wants You To Fit A Mold: Down With Webster | 26 Jun 2025 | 00:50:54 | |
They were just teens when they started making music. Soon, they were on stage at the JUNOs. Tyler Armes and Cameron Hunter are two of members of the Canadian genre-blending band Down With Webster. Today, they’re joining Mercedes and Anastasia for a real talk about creativity, courage, and carving your own path. Tyler and Cam dive into:
Tyler and Cameron also share the music they love listening to, next steps for DWW, and more! Whether you're dreaming of a creative career or just want to hear from two wildly talented, down-to-earth artists, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to go for it. Get your Manta Sleep Mask: Shop Now Check out DWW at this year's Calgary Stampede! Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with Country Music Star, Chris Lane. In this episode, Chris opens up about his journey, from chart-topping hits to life on the road, top tips for public speaking, and hacks for being more creative. https://open.spotify.com/episode/6BDfXW1UH1eYdHsya7t6rn?si=h0lz1TFvTliMGLHcFcZTzw (00:00) Intro (02:10) How DWW Got Started (03:18) Balancing DWW With School, Friends, & Being A Teen (06:42) How Can I Be More Perseverant? (10:30) Navigating The Friend vs Coworker Boundary (12:19) Advice For Pursuing A Less Conventional Career (15:47) What Gave Tyler & Camm Courage To Pursue An Unconventional Career? (18:30) Hacks To Finding Fun In Daily Life (22:10) How Do Tyler & Camm Manage Stress? (24:06) Tyler & Camm On Their DWW Hiatus (30:10) Must-Hear Analogy For LIFE (31:46) Facing Pressure To Fit Into A Mold + Tips For Staying Authentic (35:08) Navigating Industry & Personal Change (37:40) Why Release 'Love Is Not Enough'? (40:25) How Can I Be A Better Collaborator? (42:33) Tyler & Camm's Favorite Music (44:04) Advice To Aspiring/Starting Musicians (45:37) Tyler & Camm To Their Teen Selves (46:42) What Brings Tyler & Camm A Small Bit of Happiness? (47:42) Find Tyler & Camm Here (48:53) Key Takeaways | |||
| The Surprising Science of Giving (and Why It’s Good for You): Asha Curran | 24 Apr 2025 | 00:33:45 | |
Asha Curran turned a simple idea into a global movement. The GivingTuesday founder joins Mercedes and Anastasia to share the backstory behind this global organization, and the benefits of generosity. Asha explains how anyone can give, in ways aside from financial, shares her thoughts on how technology will impact the future of philanthropy, and recalls some of the most memorable GivingTuesday donations. Listen in to learn how you can make a difference, tips to becoming more generous, and the vast personal benefits of helping others. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Learn more about GivingTuesday: https://www.givingtuesday.org/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with psychiatrist and professor, Dr. Kelli Harding. In this episode you'll discover the health benefits of kindness, what Dr. Harding learned while writing her bestselling book, and hacks to being kinder to both ourselves and others: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4gSvEhSCdKqchh9BQ4uTXq?si=LIX_KXmbRs6qNB9ehDFDBg (00:00) Intro (02:20) How Asha Got Started (03:23) The Problem With Plans (03:50) Asha's Greatest Challenge (05:22) What Inspired GivingTuesday? (09:02) The World Is A Better Place Than It Seems (12:06) Asha's Top Three Tips (16:34) The Most Surprising & Meaningful GivingTuesday Contributions (19:50) What Role Does Tech & Social Media Play In Philanthropy? (23:36) How Can I Give Back/Support My Community? (25:16) GivingTuesday Spark (28:16) What Brings Asha A Small Bit of Happiness? (29:40) Asha To Her Teen Self (30:46) Asha's Motivational Quote (32:02) Key Takeaways | |||
| S’well Founder: “What If You Let Yourself Dream Bigger?” | 17 Apr 2025 | 00:55:03 | |
Bold moves built S'well, one of the world's most recognized water bottles! Join Mercedes and Anastasia as they speak with the founder of S'well, Sarah Kauss. Sarah walks through her journey (from teenage-hood to exiting a multi-million dollar company), and the lessons she learned along the way. From leaving her stable accounting job, to pitching the CEO of Starbucks, Sarah recounts how being bold has shifted her journey. Listen in for advice to teens who feel stuck, hacks to being bold, and how anyone — with or without a business — can make a meaningful social impact. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Check out Sarah's website: Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with the founder of Flytographer, Nicole Smith. In this episode you'll discover Nicole's journey to studying a travel-photographer company, how we can believe in ourselves, and hacks to resilience: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0uUOITu7Hlarju1nswEbTy?si=uNTGFUnqRaWD7pWP3WT7Ow (00:00) Intro (02:00) How Sarah Got Started (05:35) If You Feel Stuck In Life, Listen To This (06:29) Sarah's Passion For Water (08:15) Sarah's Greatest Challenge (10:58) Pursuing Rather Than Conforming (14:13) How Can I Avoid Feeling Stuck (16:45) Learn What You Dislike (18:12) Starting S'well (19:21) Sarah's Greatest Learning From Harvard Business School (21:37) How Can I Attain A Healthy Confidence? (24:53) A Note On Relationships (25:20) Business vs Social Impact (30:58) How Can I Find A Supportive Community? (32:48) How Can I Make A Positive Impact? (35:25) Sarah's Top Three Tips (40:53) Working Smarter, Not Harder (44:00) Behind The Scenes of Building S'well (46:16) Sarah's Greatest Thanks Goes To... (47:20) Life Post S'well Exit (49:35) Sarah To Her Teen Self (50:48) What Brings Sarah A Small Bit of Happiness? (51:57) Sarah's Motivational Quote (53:29) Key Takeaways | |||
| The Girl Who Climbed Everest: “This Is What the Mountain Taught Me About Myself” | 10 Apr 2025 | 00:47:08 | |
Ever wondered what it takes to reach the top of the world? This week, Mercedes and Anastasia speak with Bonita Norris, the youngest person to summit both Mount Everest and reach the North Pole. Bonita started with no climbing experience, but she defied the odds and achieved her dreams by conquering some of the world’s tallest peaks. In this conversation, she shares how she overcame the challenges of securing a sponsor, and the ins & outs of preparing for her climb up Everest. Bonita describes her most memorable moments as a mountaineer, and shares how anyone can apply her learnings as a climber into their daily life. Tune in for hacks to perseverance, goal-setting, and staying motivated! Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ See Bonita's website: https://www.bonita-norris.com/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with Peloton instructor, Marcel Dinkins. In this episode you'll discover Marcel's journey from studying fashion - to working in the army - and now being a famous fitness instructor. She shares her advice for pivoting and learning, and her hacks to self-growth: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1hG2eZxQdcVL2BD9v0MWZx?si=dTOK3Gd3SQm0qrH9iCwd1Q (00:00) Intro (01:42) How Bonita Got Started (03:39) Bonita's Greatest Challenge (06:14) Success and Failure Existing Side-By-Side (08:51) Bonita's Top Three Tips (12:27) Bonita As A Teenager (15:12) The 'Mountain' of Gaining A Sponsor (18:47) Here's Why You Should Not Give Up (19:53) How Can I Manage External Doubt? (24:45) How Can I Believe In Myself? (28:14) Training For Everest: Physical vs Mental Prep (30:56) Release What You Cannot Control (31:54) Bonita's Craziest + Best Memory From Mt. Everest (35:33) What Is Bonita's Greatest Learning From Mountaineering? (36:17) The Importance of A Team (39:42) Adventure's Impact On Our Happiness (43:31) What Brings Bonita A Small Bit of Happiness? (45:24) Key Takeaways | |||
| How a Navy SEAL Stays Calm Under Pressure! Rorke Denver | 03 Apr 2025 | 01:01:15 | |
Adversity doesn’t break you – it builds you! Mercedes and Anastasia sit with Commander Rorke Denver, a former Navy SEAL, and current speaker and bestselling author. Rorke dives into his story of overcoming rejection after initially being denied entry to the Navy SEAL program, and his experiences in the forces. Rorke shares how he views motivation vs discipline (and how we can apply these principles into our lives), the power of a team, how to stay calm under pressure, as well as his hacks to overcome adversity - no matter the situation. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Follow Rorke on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rorketdenver/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with professor and NYT bestselling author, Angela Duckworth. In this episode you'll discover Angela's advice for how to have grit, her groundbreaking research, and hacks for becoming more perseverant: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2sNZ5KquzlAvzwbTDngjOD?si=10DC2QLYS9KC5gjZPVRrUg (00:00) Intro (01:35) How Rorke Got Started (05:40) Life Doesn't Happen By Design (06:48) Rorke's Greatest Challenge (09:00) Look At Challenges Through This Lens (09:21) Not Getting Accepting Into The Navy SEALs (12:27) How Can I Deal With Rejection? (13:20) Motivation vs Discipline (14:42) How Can I Be More Disciplined?(18:48) The Bond of Navy SEAL Teams (22:32) Top Tip For Being A Good Team Member (27:04) Rorke's Top Three Tips (32:32) How Can I Stay Calm Under Pressure? (35:58) Rorke's Advice For Going Into Difficult Situations (42:14) How Rorke Spends Family Time (43:52) Rorke's TOP Lesson From Being A Navy SEAL (45:19) How Can I Know When To Quit? (47:10) Rorke On Change + What's Next For Him (51:35) The First Person To Believe In Rorke (54:27) What Brings Rorke A Small Bit of Happiness? (56:26) Rorke's Motivational Quote (58:57) Key Takeaways | |||
| How to Reinvent Yourself - From the White House to Walking Away: Laura Gassner Otting | 27 Mar 2025 | 01:09:10 | |
Change is inevitable - let's conquer it together! Today, Mercedes and Anastasia are joined by Laura Gassner Otting. A WSJ Bestselling author, TEDx Speaker, and renowned keynote speaker; Laura is everyone's favorite hype-woman. Laura takes us through the twists and turns of her journey; from working at the White House, to quitting her job, and where she's at, today. Additionally, Laura breaks down how we can exit the victim mentality, practical tips for thriving through life's toughest moments, and hacks for embracing change. Plus, she shares her secrets to mastering public speaking. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Visit Laura's website: https://lauragassnerotting.com/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with celebrity life coach, Tim Storey. In this episode you'll discover Tim's advice for turning setbacks into comebacks, the key to approaching failures, and hacks for goal-setting: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4VE28XWHGTMYBsuDZiGfzm?si=IeleftRaSeS1ptb_KfOupw (00:00) Intro (01:41) How Laura Got Started (05:05) Don't Have It All Figured Out (06:58) How Can I Stop Worrying About What Others Think? (07:38) Laura's Top Hack For Public Speaking (09:00) Laura's Greatest Challenge (11:50) You Need This Mindset Hack (13:57) What Laura Learned From Interviewing TOP Individuals (17:27) How Can I Figure Out What Matters To Me? (20:45) Laura's Top Three Tips (24:37) Be SUPER Careful With This Choice (31:14) Advice To Overcome Imposter Syndrome (36:25) Laura On The Victim Mentality (40:00) Go To School On What You Did Right (41:49) How Can I Focus On The Process, Rather Than The Destination? (46:41) Don't Box Yourself (48:40) This Is Why You Can Have It All (51:00) Does My College Major Affect The Rest of My Future? (51:57) More Public Speaking Hacks (58:59) Laura's Unexpected Struggle (01:01:21) How To Tap Into Your Strengths (01:02:29) Laura To Her Teen Self (01:03:40) What Brings Laura A Small Bit of Happiness? (01:06:43) Key Takeaways | |||
| How to Turn Setbacks Into Comebacks — From a World Champion Racer: Robyn Benincasa | 20 Mar 2025 | 01:03:43 | |
Ready for a masterclass in resilience? Robyn Benincasa is a two-time World Champion Adventure Racer, and a top keynote speaker. This week, Robyn shares some of her most extreme stories as an adventure racer, how she shapes her mindset to favor her outcomes, and how to work well with others - especially under pressure. Next, Robyn opens up about how anyone can persevere through challenges, and tells us more about her non-profit, Project Athena: helping others achieve their adventurous dreams & turn setbacks into comebacks! Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Check out Robyn's website: Learn more about Project Athena: https://www.projectathena.org/robyn-benincasa.html Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ (00:00) Intro (01:28) How Robyn Got Started (05:28) The Intersection (06:43) Follow Your Inclinations (09:37) Robyn's Greatest Challenge (15:26) The Impact of Our Community (18:15) Robyn's Top Three Tips (25:29) What Are Traits of A Good Team Member? (30:10) How To Exit The Victim Mindset (32:47) What Is Project Athena?(38:04) Find New Forms of Control (40:13) What Is Robyn's GRIT? (45:22) Set Goals Without Getting Overwhelmed(51:46) Robyn To Her Teen Self (55:35) What Brings Robyn A Small Bit of Happiness? (58:37) Robyn's Motivational Quote (1:02:28) Key Takeaways | |||
| Body Language Hacks from One of the World’s Top Experts: Traci Brown | 13 Mar 2025 | 00:55:01 | |
Your body speaks louder than words—Traci Brown reveals how to understand it like a pro! In this episode of Hack Your Happiness, Mercedes and Anastasia sit with Traci Brown. One of the top three body language experts worldwide, TIME Magazine has named Traci one of the nation’s top deception detection experts. She’s trained alongside top law enforcement, and is a bestselling author. Traci walks us through how body language impacts confidence and mindset (and how to use body language to boost both!), explains how to understand what is revealed through the body language of others, and shares tangible case studies from her own forensic work. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ See Traci's website: https://www.bodylanguagetrainer.com/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ (00:00) Intro (01:31) How Traci Got Started (04:46) Predicting Winners Based On Body Language (06:09) Traci's Greatest Challenge (08:24) How Can I Bet On Myself? (10:32) How Do Business & Body Language Go Hand-In-Hand? (17:24) Must-Know Body Language Cues (23:23) Using Body Language To Help Others (28:18) Do THIS With Your Body Language To Feel Happier (33:41) What's The Spotlight Effect? (34:50) Traci's Top Three Tips (36:36) Body Language In Friendship (40:49) Do THIS With Your Body Language For Confidence (42:54) Forensic Problem-Solving (45:09) Traci To Her Teen Self (46:34) What Brings Traci A Small Bit of Happiness? (48:26) Traci's Motivational Quote (50:03) Give Yourself 100% (53:44) Key Takeaways | |||
| How Curiosity Changed Malcolm Gladwell's Life, And Can Change Yours! | 06 Mar 2025 | 00:55:40 | |
Want to know the key to lifelong learning and happiness? Malcolm Gladwell joins Mercedes and Anastasia in this weeks episode of Hack Your Happiness. The bestselling author and podcaster shares how he came to be one of the most influential authors of our time, and small moments that have made a large impact in his life. Malcolm describes why we should all be more curious, and how to seek curiosity daily. Even more, listen to learn what a monoculture is, and how to avoid this social pitfall! Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Visit Malcolm's website: https://www.gladwellbooks.com/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with professor, neuroscientist, and bestselling author, Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett. In this episode you'll discover Dr. Feldman Barrett's advice for managing your emotions, her most surprising research discoveries, and how she came to be one of the most influential figures in understanding emotions: https://open.spotify.com/episode/06kryg38VZ1cDONvr7zoQp?si=KidDAlBuSW-hKkrSDOVhMA (00:00) Intro (01:50) How Malcolm Got Started (03:00) Malcolm's Greatest Challenge (04:46) What Drew Malcolm To This Book Genre? (07:11) The Moment That Made A BIG Impact (11:00) Malcolm's View of Happiness (13:41) What Malcolm Learned From His Dad (15:42) How Can I Have More Positive Interactions? (16:33) Does Empathy Play A Role In Happiness? (19:03) Malcolm's Top Three Tips (20:16) How Malcolm Furthers His Learning (24:27) Malcolm On Starting A Production Company (25:40) How Malcolm Curates A New Book (29:32) Which Case Study Stands Out To Malcolm? (31:53) Monoculture - What It Is + How To Avoid It (35:00) How Can I Embrace My Unique Traits? (37:36) Accessing Your Subconscious Thoughts (42:47) How To Confront Your Mistakes (47:48) A Personal Legacy (49:35) Malcolm To His Teen Self (51:20) What Brings Malcolm A Small Bit of Happiness? (52:06) Malcolm's Motivational Quote (53:31) Key Takeaways | |||
| How to Conquer Fear and Win—Lessons From a Formula 1 Racer: David Coulthard | 27 Feb 2025 | 00:56:29 | |
Let's conquer the toughest of moments! Mercedes and Anastasia sit with Former Formula 1 racer and broadcaster, David Coulthard. David shares his journey from racing at 11 to becoming one of the highest-scoring British drivers of all time. He opens up about the mental challenges he faced on the track, how anyone can bounce back from fear and mental anguish, and his most important lesson from racing. Shop our Happiness Products:https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Listen to David's podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3vLRbMzoij67gqLtgtAi6Q?si=e91da124faa04329 Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family!https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with most followed NASCAR Driver and model, Toni Breidinger. In this episode you'll discover Toni's journey to becoming a NASCAR driver at a young age, her top mindset hacks, and tips for staying calm under pressure:https://open.spotify.com/episode/3RBZ90FFyqNJu5IxxKod6T?si=W6ctaFDlRCO9Xt20B7xJRg (00:00) Intro (02:03) How David Got Started (03:42) Struggle vs Star (06:51) David's Greatest Challenge (11:12) Don't Take Setbacks Personally (13:01) The Importance of Being Reliable (14:07) Did David Plan For A Backup Career? (16:13) David's Top Three Tips (22:35) How Can I Shift My Mindset? (23:50) How Can I Bounce Back From Mistakes? (30:16) This Is Why You Should Ask Questions (32:43) David's Tip For Focus (37:09) Here's How To Make Big (& Small) Decisions (42:28) David To His Teen Self( 48:08) What Brings David A Small Bit of Happiness? (49:59) David's Motivational Quote (54:29) Key Takeaways | |||
| The Sleep Hacks You Didn’t Know You Needed! Dr. Wendy Troxel | 20 Feb 2025 | 00:47:41 | |
Tired of feeling tired? Join Mercedes and Anastasia as they speak with Dr. Wendy Troxel. Dr. Troxel is an award-winning clinical psychologist and behavioral sleep medicine expert. In addition, Wendy is an editor for well-respected journals, including Sleep Health. In this episode you'll find out the TRUTH behind napping, whether you're a morning vs night person, what to do when you can't stop tossing and turning, and not to mention, sleep myth-busting with Dr. Wendy Troxel. Shop our Happiness Products:https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ See Dr. Troxel's website: Watch Dr. Troxel's TEDx Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/wendy_troxel_why_school_should_start_later_for_teens Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family!https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ (00:00) Intro(01:40) How Wendy Got Started(03:48) Don't Have It All Planned Out(04:40) Wendy's Greatest Challenge(06:53) How Does Wendy Find Balance?(08:38) What Role Does Sleep Play In Happiness?(12:09) Wendy's Top Three Tips(18:15) How Can I Fall Asleep If I'm Wide Awake?(23:26) Morning Bird vs Night Owl: Is It True? Which Am I?(29:09) How To Change Your Sleep Schedule(30:16) Napping's Affect On Happiness(36:09) Sleep MYTH Busted(37:43) What Time Should I Wake Up At?(40:34) Wendy To Her Teen Self(42:32) What Brings Wendy A Small Bit of Happiness?(43:22) Wendy's Motivational Quote(44:23) On Wendy's Horizon(46:20) Key Takeaways | |||
| What I Learned About Happiness From Traveling The World, 2 TV Shows & My Dad’s Jokes: Phil Rosenthal | 19 Jun 2025 | 00:33:43 | |
He created one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time, Everybody Loves Raymond. Now, Phil Rosenthal travels the world, tasting food and learning about joy, in his Netflix series, Somebody Feed Phil. Today, Phil is joining Mercedes and Anastasia for a feel-good conversation about his journey into show business, and what he's learned from traveling the world! Phil dives into:
Whether you dream of working in TV, want to travel the world, or just need a smile today, this episode is your passport to joy, connection, and feeling a little bit happier. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Get your Manta Sleep Mask: Shop Now Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Watch Somebody Feed Phil, Season 8! https://www.netflix.com/ca/title/80146601 Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with host of National Geographic's Primal Survivor, adventurer Hazen Audel. In this episode, Hazen shares his craziest stories from living in the wild, advice on trying new things, and hacks on how to face your fears! https://open.spotify.com/episode/76p0Fcvj9H1VBRclxdxBiB?si=yeNtzUYpSDGhV6UhHMad7g (00:00) Intro (02:07) How Phil Got Started (05:30) The Backstory: Everybody Loves Raymond (07:22) The Pursuit, Not The Destination (08:20) What Has Phil Learned About Happiness, From Around The World? (12:15) Hacks To Gratitude (15:27) How Can I Build A Stronger Bond With My Sibling/Family? (19:00) Phil's Travel (FOOD!) Hack (22:28) What Is The Best & Most Surprising Food That Phil Has Tried? (24:40) Hacks For Managing Unpredictable Situations (28:14) A Joke From Phil (29:47) What Brings Phil A Small Bit of Happiness? (31:51) Key Takeaways | |||
| Sydney & Toni Loew: Young Entrepreneur Sisters' Hacks On Being Bold | 13 Feb 2025 | 01:05:42 | |
What's the secret to starting a business as teens? Sydney and Toni Loew started their toy company, Poketti, as two teenagers. Now in their 20s, the dynamic duo sits with Mercedes and Anastasia, embarking on the story behind their journey. Sydney and Toni describe overcoming the fear of being judged, managing school with their booming business, and tangible tips for any teen to start a business. In addition, the two unveil their hacks to being bold - be it in business, or any other part of life. Shop our Happiness Products:https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Check out Poketti: Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family!https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ (00:00) Intro(02:10) How Sydney & Toni Got Started(06:38) Sydney & Toni's Greatest Challenge(10:33) How Can I Balance Everything?(11:32) Top Tip For Siblings To Get Along(14:44) Managing The Fear Of Judgement(19:26) Are Sydney & Toni Starting Another Business?(21:38) Sydney & Toni's Top Three Tips(30:44) How Did The Modern World Help Poketti Grow? (33:18) BTS Of Pitching HUGE Retailers + How To Manage Nerves(38:15) Poketti: Then vs Now(41:55) What Are Pocket Powers?(48:36) How Can Teens Work With Adults?(52:59) Top Tip For Starting A Business(55:18) Sydney & Toni To Their Teenage Selves(59:00) What Brings Sydney & Toni A Small Bit of Happiness?(1:00:56) Sydney & Toni's Motivational Quotes(1:04:18) Key Takeaways | |||
| Jeanine Mason: Winner of So You Think You Can Dance's Hacks To Defining Your Own Self Worth | 06 Feb 2025 | 00:48:57 | |
What's the secret to handling pressure like a pro? Winner of So You Think You Can Dance, and actress, Jeanine Mason joins hosts Mercedes and Anastasia. In this episode, Jeanine takes us behind the scenes of SYTYCD, shares how she manages pressure, and gives her top tips for overcoming self-doubt—whether in auditions, performances, or everyday life. Not to mention, Jeanine shares her insights on how we can define our own self worth, reducing our need for external validation. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Follow Jeanine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsjeaninemason/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ (00:00) Intro (01:44) How Jeanine Found Dance (02:58) Why Should I Pursue My Passion? (03:41) How Can I Pursue My Passion? (05:02) Jeanine's Greatest Challenge (06:51) Dealing With Doubters (07:21) Everything Is Temporary (08:44) How Can I Define My Self Worth? (11:03) Your Authentic Self (12:50) Jeanine's Top Three Tips (16:45) Return To Something 3D (18:41) Behind The Scenes of SYTYCD (23:04) How To Cope With Pressure (26:07) How Jeanine Takes Downtime (29:08) Hacks To Managing Being Compared To Others (32:40) Does Everything Happen For A Reason? (33:13) How Can I Celebrate Other People? (34:50) Jeanine To Her Teen Self (38:34) What Brings Jeanine A Small Bit of Happiness? (40:18) Jeanine's Motivational Quote (43:48) Every Effort Matters! (45:42) On Jeanine's Horizon (47:46) Key Takeaways | |||
| Mohit Mukherjee: Founding Director of the UN University for Peace's Hacks To Creating Change | 30 Jan 2025 | 00:56:25 | |
Ready to turn your passion into purpose? On this week's episode, the founding director of the UN UPEACE Centre For Executive Education, Mohit Mukherjee, joins us. Mohit describes his experiences in the corporate world, and how he transitioned into becoming a social entrepreneur. Join us as we discuss staying positive under pressure, advice for leading change in any realm of life, and hacks for experimenting with your interests. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Check out the UPEACE Centre For Executive Education: Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ (00:00) Intro (01:50) How Mohit Found Social Entrepreneurship (04:49) Why Should I Experiment With Interests? (07:12) Mohit's Greatest Challenge (10:19) What We See vs What's Going On (11:42) How Does Social Impact Drive Happiness? (13:04) PERMA (19:34) Mohit's Top Three Tips (23:29) The UPeace Centre For Executive Education (29:20) Mohit's Greatest Learning As A Leader (33:11) You Don't Need To Be A Leader Alone (34:40) You Need This Leadership Skill (39:33) How Can I Keep A Positive Mindset Through Stress? (44:44) Mohit To His Teen Self (46:30) What Brings Mohit A Small Bit of Happiness? (48:37) Mohit's Motivational Quote (50:35) Leaving A Job & Moving Across The World (51:52) Shoot Your Shot (52:34) On Mohit's Horizon (55:05) Key Takeaways | |||
| Neil Bush: Hacks For Social Impact From the Chairman of Points of Light | 23 Jan 2025 | 00:52:27 | |
Anyone can change the world. This week, Mercedes and Anastasia are joined by Neil Bush—renowned international businessman, chairman of the Points of Light board of directors. As the son of George H. W. Bush, Neil has dedicated his career to expanding his father’s vision of empowering individuals and communities through volunteerism and service. Tune in to learn about growing up in the Bush household, hacks for anyone to create a social impact, and advice for becoming a strong leader. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Visit Points of Light: https://www.pointsoflight.org/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ (00:00) Intro (01:48) How Neil Got Started (04:32) Why Small Bits of Happiness? (05:36) Helping Others = Happiness (06:36) A Culture of Service (09:22) The Power of Handwritten Notes (10:19) What Is Points Of Light? (16:15) Volunteering In Today's World (17:30) The Power of The Small (18:49) Neil's Top Three Tips (21:11) How Can I Make A Positive Impact? (23:02) How Neil's Upbringing Shaped Him (24:15) Neil's Children (28:59) How Can I Be A Leader? (35:28) A Must-Know Motto (35:50) Don't Hesitate To Ask (37:29) Neil To His Teen Self (39:13) Being A Teen In Today's World (44:42) What Brings Neil A Small Bit of Happiness? (49:09) Neil's Motivational Quote (51:21) Key Takeaways | |||
| Cal Newport: Productivity Hacks From An Author & Professor | 16 Jan 2025 | 00:47:49 | |
It's 2025 - and it's time to level up our productivity! For our first episode of 2025, bestselling author and professor, Cal Newport discusses how we can all tap into our potential in this New Year. He shares with Mercedes and Anastasia how we can all reduce distractions (from social media), the role of downtime in productivity, and his top hacks for studying and organizing our day. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ See Cal Newport's website: Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ (00:00) Intro (01:50) How Calvin Got Started (04:16) Calvin's Greatest Challenge (06:26) Why Do I Crave Instant Gratification? (07:49) Social Media's Role In Our Mindset (09:05) The Dip (11:39) How Can I Reduce My Urge To Be On Social Media? (18:01) How To Set A Social Media Boundary (18:50) Calvin's Top Three Tips (24:45) Productivity vs Downtime (26:04) How To Be A High School Superstar (27:29) Hacks To Downtime (29:41) How Can I Be Productive With Others? (34:00) Calvin's Top Hack For New Jobs (34:58) What Is Time-Blocking? (37:45) Calvin To His Teen Self (40:48) What Brings Calvin A Small Bit of Happiness? (43:00) Calvin's Motivational Quote (46:02) Key Takeaways | |||
| Julie Baker Finck: Hacks To Being A Leader From the President of BBHLF | 05 Dec 2024 | 00:51:48 | |
Tap into your inner leader! This week, Julie Baker Finck, President of the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation, joins Hack Your Happiness. She shares her story to becoming a leader in literacy, as well as the importance of reading + top book recommendations for leaders. In addition, Julie breaks-down her top leadership habits, and how we can all become better communicators. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Visit the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation website: https://www.barbarabushhouston.org/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ (00:00) Intro (01:24) Julie's Early Days (02:46) This Moment Meant A Lot (03:56) What is the BBHLF? (06:10) Why Children Need To Be Read To (07:40) Julie's Greatest Challenge (09:29) How You Can Face Goals + Challenges (12:41) Julie's Top Three Tips (16:34) How Can I Be A Strong Leader? (17:45) Must-Read Leadership Books (22:54) A Guide To Identifying YOUR Strengths (24:02) How Can I Be Open-Minded? (24:48) Build These Leadership Habits Into Your Life (31:01) Here's Why You Should Read (35:18) Did You Know These Reading Benefits? (37:59) Julie To Her Teen Self (40:16) What Brings Julie A Small Bit of Happiness? (42:13 )Julie's Motivational Quote (42:24) On Julie's Horizon (50:32) Key Takeaways | |||
| Sonja Lyubomirsky: Hacks For More Happiness From A TOP Psychologist | 28 Nov 2024 | 00:28:53 | |
Let's unpack happiness. World happiness expert, Sonja Lyubomirsky is a Distinguished Professor of Psychology at the University of California, Riverside, and bestselling author. Sonja shares tangible and practical hacks for boosting your happiness, her most fascinating findings, and the easiest ways for all of us to connect with loved ones (+ why we should!). Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ See Sonja's website: Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ (00:00) Intro (01:43) Sonja As A Teen (03:05) Greatest Challenge (04:55) Can I Control My Happiness? (09:08) The KEY To Happiness (09:50) Try This (11:10) Sonja's Top Three Tips (14:43) You Needs THIS (15:27) Evaluate Your Connections (16:34) The Importance of Listening + Asking (18:13) How Can You Ask Better Questions? (19:15) Most OUTSTANDING Happy Fact (22:41) Teens Get More Embarrassed Than Adults (24:06) The Spotlight Effect (24:59) What Is The UNHAPPIEST Age Group? (25:54) What Brings Sonja A Small Bit of Happiness? (27:18) Key Takeaways | |||
| Ellen Ochoa: Hacks To Asking For What You Need From A 4x Astronaut | 21 Nov 2024 | 00:32:08 | |
NASA Icon Ellen Ochoa sits with Mercedes and Anastasia, sharing her challenges and journey to becoming the first Latina to go to space. Ellen talks about the number of times she applied to NASA, and how she finally got in. She shares her experiences of being in space, and advice on managing and overcoming rejection. Ellen also breaks down the importance of + how to ask for what you need, and her take on imposter syndrome. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Browse Ellen's website: Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| Actress Rachael Leigh Cook's Hacks On Being True To Yourself | 14 Nov 2024 | 00:51:08 | |
From teen star to Hollywood powerhouse, Mercedes and Anastasia are joined by actress Rachael Leigh Cook. Rachael booked her first acting job at 15, in a hit film, She's All That. Rachael discusses the challenges of growing up in the public eye, takes us behind-the-scenes of being an actress, and shares her hacks for being true to oneself. Listen in for advice on pursuing actress and her most significant memory of her career, so far. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Follow Rachael on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachaelleighcook/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| Psychologist Meg Jay's Hacks On Preparing For The Future | 07 Nov 2024 | 00:33:38 | |
Prepare for your future with psychologist, Meg Jay! The bestselling author of "The Twentysomething Treatment", and keynote speaker sits with Mercedes and Anastasia to discuss the navigation of changing friendships, managing the uncertainties of getting older, and her top hacks on preparing for the future. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Explore Meg's website: Check out Meg on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmegjay/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| How To Go After What You Want & Get It (with a Former Google Executive): Jenny Wood | 12 Jun 2025 | 00:54:26 | |
She left Google to chase something even bigger. Jenny Wood is a former Google executive, now bestselling author and keynote speaker! Jenny joins Mercedes and Anastasia for a conversation all about her nine traits to going after what you want, and getting it. Jenny dives into:
Whether you dream of working at a company like Google or simply want to create a more uplifting circle at school, this episode will help you find the courage to speak up, show up, and take action. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Get your Manta Sleep Mask: Shop Now Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Visit Jenny's website: Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with professor and bestselling author, Alison Fragale. In this episode, Alison shares advice on staying true to your values, setting attainable goals, and hacks on how to be likeable without being a pushover! https://open.spotify.com/episode/5FB6VjZff5jqODLVJm0egq?si=kBeSw1GrQTeTb5tQ_zSrng (00:00) Intro (02:22) How Jenny Got Started (03:13) Jenny As A Teenager (05:26) What Is Wild Courage? (07:43) The Power of Language (& how it changes overtime) (11:17) Jenny's Greatest Learnings From Google (15:15) Hacks For Navigating Imposter Syndrome (21:52) How Can I Focus On The Big Picture? (26:24) Embrace It: The Spotlight Effect (30:18) Hacks For Effective Communication + Self-Advocacy (36:44) How Can I Do It All? (41:39) What Is Shame + How To Overcome Shame (44:45) Jenny's Top Three Tips (46:25) How Much Does College Impact My Future? (50:30) A Quote To Remember (52:34) Key Takeaways | |||
| Author of The Princess Diaries Meg Cabot's Hacks To Managing Criticism | 31 Oct 2024 | 00:33:16 | |
Step into the world of The Princess Diaries with author, Meg Cabot. With over 25 million copies sold worldwide, Meg walks us through writing The Princess Diaries, and her experience of watching her writing transform into a hit film series. She unveils her advice for overcoming criticism, eliminating distractions to focus on your passion, and how she finds inspiration. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ See Meg's website: Follow Meg on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialmegcabot/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| Nutritionist Ellie Krieger's Hacks For A Balanced Lifestyle | 24 Oct 2024 | 00:41:24 | |
Healthy doesn't have to mean boring. Ellie Krieger joins Mercedes and Anastasia to discuss what a truly healthy and balanced diet and lifestyle look like. As a nutritionist, star of hit Food Network show Healthy Appetite, and bestselling author of seven cookbooks, Ellie de-bunks nutrition myths, provides fun and easy recipe ideas, and shares specific foods that bring feelings of happiness. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Browse Ellie's website: https://www.elliekrieger.com/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| Astronaut Dr. Shawna Pandya's Hacks On Overcoming Nervousness | 17 Oct 2024 | 00:57:47 | |
From deep sea to outer space, this week Dr. Shawna Pandya, physician, astronaut, and aquanaut, joins Hack Your Happiness. Dr. Pandya takes us behind-the-scenes in space training and shares how she's feeling about her upcoming space flight. She'll also share her top tips for handling nervousness, becoming more resilient, and combating self-doubt. Best of all, if you are an aspiring astronaut, tune in for first-hand advice from Shawna! Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Visit Dr. Pandya's website: Follow Dr. Pandya on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawnapandya/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| Top Psychologist Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett's Hacks For Managing Emotions | 10 Oct 2024 | 00:58:20 | |
Ever wonder how your brain shapes your reality? This week, Mercedes and Anastasia are joined by Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett, a groundbreaking psychologist, neuroscientist, and author. In this episode, we’re diving deep into Dr. Barrett’s journey, from her early days as a teen to becoming one of the most influential figures in understanding emotions. We’ll explore non-verbal cues, her most surprising research discoveries, and most of all, how we all (especially teens!) can better control our emotions. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Explore Dr. Barrett's website: https://lisafeldmanbarrett.com/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| Country Music Star Chris Lane's Hacks To Expressing Your Creativity | 03 Oct 2024 | 00:33:53 | |
Prepare to dive deep into the world of country music and life behind the scenes! This week, we’re thrilled to have country music star Chris Lane joining us. From chart-topping hits to life on the road, Chris opens up about his journey, the challenges he’s faced, and how he stays grounded through it all. We’ll be talking about everything from his rise to fame, top tips for public speaking, and his advice for expressing our own creativity. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Visit Chris' website: Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| Negotiation Expert Alison Fragale's Hacks To Being Likeable Without Being A Pushover | 26 Sep 2024 | 00:41:20 | |
Get ready to unbox all the hacks to confidence, self-value, and being seen in the way that you want others to see you! Professor, author, and negotiation expert, Alison Fragale joins Hack Your Happiness to discuss her challenges and how she has overcome them, quick tips for social situations, and most of all, how we can be likeable, but still stay in-touch with our values and goals. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ See Alison's website: https://alisonfragale.com/ Buy Alison's NEW book!: https://www.amazon.com/Likeable-Badass-Women-Success-Deserve/dp/0385549148 Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| NASCAR Driver Julia Landauer's Hacks On Embracing Discomfort | 19 Sep 2024 | 00:53:10 | |
Join Mercedes and Anastasia as they speak with champion NASCAR Driver and Surviver contestant, Julia Landauer. Julia discusses why she chose to stop racing, her experiences on Survivor, and her top hacks for embracing discomfort - from a race car, in a jungle, or in everyday life. Want more happiness!? Check these out:
Follow Julia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julialandauer/ Visit Julia's TikTok account: https://www.tiktok.com/@julia_landauer Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| Award-Winning Journalist Steven Petrow's Hacks For Finding Joy | 12 Sep 2024 | 00:45:56 | |
Today, award-winning journalist and author, Steven Petrow, joins Hack Your Happiness to share his story of finding joy in daily life. After facing many hard times, including cancer in both himself and his beloved sister, Steven began to focus on finding joy - everywhere. Join us as Steven discusses his hacks to finding joy, how to look for the good, even in the darkest of times, and his secret to staying motivated as a writer! Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: Order Steven's new book: Visit Steven's website: See Steven on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stevenpetrow/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| Content Creator Sahil Bloom's Hacks For Building A Winning Mindset | 05 Sep 2024 | 00:45:13 | |
In this episode, Mercedes and Anastasia speak with Sahil Bloom. Sahil is an entrepreneur, content creator, and investor. Listen in as he discusses how he transformed his life, the importance of doing hard things every day (and how to do more hard things!), and his hacks to building a winning mindset. Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: Visit Sahil's website: https://www.sahilbloom.com/#Hero Pre-order Sahil's book: https://www.the5typesofwealth.com/ Follow Sahil on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sahilbloom/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! | |||
| Investor Natalie Dawson's Hacks To Sharing Your Success | 29 Aug 2024 | 00:36:44 | |
Co-Founder and President of Cardone Ventures, Natalie Dawson is a widely successful author, podcast host, and investor. Natalie brings us along on her journey to becoming a successful investor and author, unveils her confidence hacks, and must-know advice for sharing your success with others. Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Follow Natalie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliedawson/ Explore Natalie's TikTok account: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenataliedawson Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| How to Stop Self-Sabotaging and Start Winning (From an Olympian!): Gwen Jorgensen | 05 Jun 2025 | 00:57:04 | |
She’s a gold-medal-winning Olympic athlete, a powerhouse of perseverance, and a role model for anyone chasing big goals. Mercedes and Anastasia are joined by Gwen Jorgensen. She’s an Olympic triathlete turned marathon runner, and today she’s sharing what it really takes to succeed, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. Listen in to this episode to hear how Gwen overcame the fear of success, found motivation through injury and uncertainty, and shifted from being introverted to confidently owning her space. Gwen opens up about the moment she won Olympic gold, how she handles setbacks and pressure, and the daily habits that help her stay grounded, healthy, and happy. Whether you’re an athlete or just navigating your own personal finish lines, this conversation is packed with wisdom you’ll want to carry with you. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Follow Gwen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gwenjorgensen/ Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with 2024 Team USA Olympic Beach Volleyball Players, Taryn Kloth and Kristen Nuss. In this episode, Taryn and Kristen share the insider experience of being Olympic athletes, advice for overcoming physical AND mental challenges, and hacks to teamwork. https://open.spotify.com/episode/6YaVemhvTWVEuryMDbkBpx?si=Qk2HkyHMQc-xRjpqu5zz7A (00:00) Intro (01:29) How Gwen Got Started (03:19) Gwen's Greatest Challenge (05:27) Who Do I Need A WHY? (06:16) What Is A Fear of Success? (09:32) How Can I Tell If I Have A Fear of Success? (11:41) Gwen's Top Three Tips (14:40) Gwen's Guide To Health & Training (18:14) How Can I Become More Extraverted? (20:26) Benefits Of Being Extraverted (23:01) Inside Gwen's Mind After Winning An Olympic Gold Medal (25:10) Training vs Competing (29:08) How Can I Stay Motivated? (31:10) Tips For Working Well With Others (33:35) Gwen On Switching Sports (39:23) Tips For Finding Fun In Everyday (40:17) How Gwen Stayed Positive While Injured (43:21) Internal vs External Competition (48:00) What's On Gwen's Horizon? (48:55) One Belief/Behavior That Has Positively Contributed To Gwen's Life (50:58) What Brings Gwen A Small Bit of Happiness (52:27) Gwen To Her Teen Self (53:27) Gwen's Motivational Quote (55:13) Key Takeaways | |||
| Educator Dr. Victoria Waller's Hacks To Finding Your Creativity | 27 Aug 2024 | 00:49:42 | |
With back to school season in full swing, Mercedes and Anastasia are thrilled to be speaking with educational therapist and award winning author, Dr. Victoria Waller. Victoria discusses how anyone can find their creativity (and why they should do so!), creativity versus A.I., and her hacks for being your authentic self this school year. Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: Explore Dr. Waller's Instagram Account: https://www.instagram.com/drvictoriawaller/ Browse Dr. Waller's Website: https://www.drvictoriawaller.com/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| Dr. Fallon Goodman's Hacks For Stressful Social Situations | 22 Aug 2024 | 00:44:34 | |
In this week's episode, professor of psychology Dr. Fallon Goodman joins Mercedes and Anastasia - just in time for back to school. Fallon shares her guide to social situations, how to make friends and approach new people, and top tips for not caring what other people think. Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: Visit Fallon's website: https://www.fallongoodman.com/ Check out Fallon on X: Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| Celebrity Illustrator Megan Hess' Hacks To Embrace Your Creativity | 15 Aug 2024 | 00:53:57 | |
Come along with Mercedes and Anastasia as they are joined by Megan Hess, celebrity illustrator. Megan's client list includes Nicole Kidman, Michelle Obama, Tiffany & Co, and countless other luxury brands. Megan shares her story of overcoming self doubt in the creative industry (and her tips to doing so), as well as discusses her views on A.I. in art. Most of all, Megan gives us her hacks on how to embrace our creativity. Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: Visit Megan's website: Follow Megan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/small.bits.of.happiness/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/ | |||
| Peloton Instructor Marcel Dinkins' Hacks For Self Growth | 08 Aug 2024 | 00:52:30 | |
This week, Mercedes and Anastasia are joined by Peloton Instructor and keynote speaker, Marcel Dinkins. Marcel dives deep into her journey, from studying fashion, to working in the army, and now being a famous fitness instructor. She shares the importance of learning and pivoting, and her top hacks for self growth! Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: Check out Marcel's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialmarcelfit/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! | |||
| Celebrity Life Coach Tim Storey's Hacks To Overcome Setbacks | 01 Aug 2024 | 00:40:28 | |
In this episode, Tim Storey, celebrity life coach to stars including Robert Downey Jr., Kanye West, and beyond, joins. He discusses how anyone can overcome a setback (+ find their way back to their goal!), the key to successfully achieving goals, and how we can approach failure. Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: Visit Tim's website: Follow Tim on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timstoreyofficial/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! | |||
| Speaker & Author Amy Morin's Hacks For Mental Strength | 25 Jul 2024 | 00:42:30 | |
Join Mercedes and Anastasia as they speak with psychotherapist and social worker, Amy Morin! After losing some of the closest people in her life, Amy wrote her debut and bestselling book, 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do. In this episode she breaks down how she dealt with loss and adversity, hacks to boosting our mental strength (for any situation - big or small), and what we SHOULDN'T do, in order to feel happy. Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: Visit Amy's website: Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! | |||
| WWE Star Erika Hammond's Hacks To Celebrating Yourself | 18 Jul 2024 | 00:26:39 | |
WWE Star turned celebrity fitness trainer, Erika Hammond joins Mercedes and Anastasia to share her advice on staying positive through setbacks, the key to balancing work and life, along with her hacks to not being afraid to celebrate ourselves! Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: Check out Erika's Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/small.bits.of.happiness/ Follow Erika on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@smallbitsofhappiness Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! | |||
| Olympic Beach Volleyball Duo Taryn Kloth & Kristen Nuss's Hacks To Teamwork | 11 Jul 2024 | 00:37:39 | |
With the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics on the horizon, this week, Mercedes and Anastasia are joined by beach volleyball duo, Taryn Kloth and Kristen Nuss. Taryn and Kristen share how they've risen to the top of their game in beach volleyball, advice to aspiring athletes, as well as their hacks to working as a team! Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: See Taryn & Kristen's shared website: Follow Taryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tkloth10/ Follow Kristen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristen_nuss/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! | |||
| #1 NYT Bestselling Author Victoria Aveyard's Hacks For Dealing With Pressure | 04 Jul 2024 | 00:49:51 | |
On this week's episode of Hack Your Happiness, author of the Red Queen Series, Victoria Aveyard, joins. Victoria shares how she began writing, advice to aspiring authors, and hacks for dealing with pressure. Whether it be the pressure of growing up, making a team, hitting a deadline, or publishing a book, Victoria's hacks are here to help! Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: Follow Victoria on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@victoriaaveyard?lang=en Check out Victoria on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoriaaveyard/ Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! | |||
| Adventurer & TV Personality Hazen Audel's Hacks For Facing Fears | 27 Jun 2024 | 01:10:22 | |
This week, Hazen Audel joins Mercedes and Anastasia on Hack Your Happiness. Hazen is the host of National Geographic's Primal Survivor (among other shows), as well as a wilderness guide, speaker, biologist, and beyond. Hazen shares his story and how he remains calm even while facing exotic and unknown environments, while in the wilderness. Listen in as he shares his advice for facing one's fears, following passions, and trying new things. Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: Check out Hazen's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hazenaudel/ Visit Hazen's website: Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! | |||
| This Is How You Take Control of Your Emotions (Backed by Science): Dr. Ethan Kross | 29 May 2025 | 00:56:34 | |
He’s one of the world’s top psychologists, a bestselling author, and a leading expert on how we understand and manage emotion. Mercedes and Anastasia are joined by Ethan Kross. He's a professor of psychology and management at the University of Michigan and director of the Emotion & Self Control Laboratory. Listen in to this episode to unravel what’s really going on in our heads, why we're wired to feel things so deeply, and how to take back control. Ethan opens up about his own journey — from childhood curiosity to scientific breakthroughs — and offers advice he gives his own daughters about building emotional resilience. Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Support Us: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/welcome-to-hack-your-happiness/ Visit Ethan's website: Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with professor and psychologist, Dr. Meg Jay. In this episode, Meg shares advice for navigating the uncertainty of growing up & the future, how to manage changing friendships, and hacks for becoming confident within yourself. https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pWXMWROKqEmm0TReLglAd?si=n6Q_07-_Ri2ezxjx6_cwjg (00:00) Intro (01:24) How Ethan Got Started (04:01) Our Family's Affect On Our Emotions (04:51) Ethan's Greatest Challenge (06:58) What Should Every Teen Know About Emotions? (10:54) What Is The Purpose of Emotions? (16:17) How To Influence Your Culture (19:25) Is Social Media Poisonous? (21:37) Emotions Are Contagious - Here's How To Bring Positivity Into Your Relationships (26:59) Sharing Emotions vs Keeping Emotions In (31:44) The MOST Helpful AND Under-used Hack (35:11) Your First Step In Emotional Regulation (38:06) What Are Shifters? (42:06) How Should I Handle Rejection? (45:47) The SHOCKING History of Emotions (50:35) How Do The Teen Years Impact Emotional Development? (53:33) What Brings Ethan A Small Bit of Happiness? (54:49) Key Takeaways | |||
| TV Celebrity Chef Anna Olson's Hacks On The Fear Of Failure | 20 Jun 2024 | 00:51:28 | |
Food network star Anna Olson joins Mercedes and Anastasia on this week's episode. As a chef and TV personality, Anna shares the story of her early days as a chef, and her pursuit of her love for cooking. Even today, Anna faces failures while creating new recipes. In this episode, she shares how we can lesser our fear of failure, and grow from each one. Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: Visit Anna's website: Follow Anna on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefannaolson/ Watch Anna's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chefannaolson Check out Anna on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ohyum Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! | |||
| Astrophysicist Erika Hamden's Hacks To Problem Solving | 13 Jun 2024 | 00:51:03 | |
Come along with Mercedes and Anastasia as they speak with Astrophysicist Erika Hamden. As someone who specializes in building space telescopes and developing space technology, Erika has experience with overcoming challenges and hurdles. This week, she shares her journey, some of her greatest challenges (and how she's solved them), along with problem-solving hacks that anyone can apply. Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: Follow Erika on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/erika.hamden/ Check out Erika's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@erikahamden Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! | |||
| Flytographer CEO Nicole Smith's Hacks For Resilience | 06 Jun 2024 | 00:49:14 | |
In this episode, Flytographer CEO Nicole Smith joins Mercedes and Anastasia to talk about resilience. A company founded on travel and connection, Nicole shares how she began Flytographer, her journey, and greatest learnings. As a highly successful CEO, Nicole has overcome many challenges. Tune in as she breaks down hacks for anyone to become more resilient! Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ View the Flytographer website: Follow Flytographer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flytographer/ Check out Flytographer on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flytographer Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! | |||
| NYT Bestselling Author Nathalia Holt's Hacks To Being Authentic | 30 May 2024 | 00:34:36 | |
Nathalia Holt joins Hack Your Happiness to share her hacks to authenticity. As a Best-Selling Author of books focused on sharing the stories of women behind historical events and projects, Nathalia has first-hand experience with facing criticism and rejection. Listen in as Nathalia shares her writing journey, advice to aspiring authors, and hacks to being authentic - regardless of what others say. Want more happiness!? Check these out: Shop our Happiness Products: https://smallbitsofhappiness.com/gifts-for-teenagers-shop-all/ Follow Nathalia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathaliaholt/ Visit Nathalia's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nathaliaholt Visit her website: Visit the Small Bits of Happiness Website + Join The Happiness Family! | |||