#030 Possessions vs. happiness

#030 Possessions vs. happiness

Can possessions make us happy? In this reflective episode of St-John on Air, we explore the fascinating relationship between material possessions, happiness, and lasting well-being. Drawing on the work of psychologists and researchers including Daniel Kahneman, Kent Berridge, Philip Brickman, Thomas Gilovich, Tim Kasser, Martin Seligman, Robert Emmons, and Robert Waldinger, we examine why new purchases often bring excitement at first—but rarely provide lasting fulfilment. Together we'll explore: ✨ The psychology of hedonic adaptation 🧠 Dopamine, anticipation, and reward ❤️ Why relationships matter more than possessions 🌍 Experiences versus material goods 🙏 The role of gratitude in lasting well-being 🌱 What actually contributes to a meaningful life A gentle nighttime reflection on happiness, consumer culture, and the small things that continue to matter long after the excitement of something new has faded. Perfect for listeners interested in psychology, well-being, mindfulness, and personal growth.

#029 Small Joys

The Quiet Joy of Small Things Why do the smallest moments sometimes stay with us the longest? In this reflective episode, we explore the psychology of savoring, presence, and everyday well-being—and why tiny experiences can have a surprisingly powerful effect on mental health. Drawing on insights from Martin Seligman, Fred Bryant, Barbara Fredrickson, and Rick Hanson, this episode explores: • why the brain naturally overlooks small joys • how savoring improves emotional well-being • why modern life makes presence difficult • and how tiny daily rituals quietly shape happiness Through gentle reflection and practical ideas, discover how slowing down—even briefly—can make life feel fuller, calmer, and more meaningful. Perfect for evening listening, mindfulness, reflection, and anyone longing to reconnect with the beauty of ordinary moments.

#028 Addiction Cycle

The Pull of More: Understanding Dopamine and Breaking the Cycle of Addiction Why do we keep reaching for “just one more”? In this reflective episode, we explore the psychology and neuroscience behind everyday addictive patterns—scrolling, snacking, checking—and why they can feel so hard to stop. Drawing on insights from Nora Volkow, Kent Berridge, and Anna Lembke, this episode explains: • why dopamine is about wanting, not just pleasure • how habits quietly become compulsions • why modern life makes overconsumption easier than ever • and how to gently interrupt the cycle early Through calm reflection and practical strategies, discover how awareness—not force—is the first step toward real change. Perfect for evening listening, self-reflection, and anyone wanting to regain control of their attention and habits. If you like what I do, buy me a coffee => https://buymeacoffee.com/fzts9andx

#027 Progression and Motivation

Small Steps, Real Change: Learning to See Your Own Progress Why does progress so often feel invisible—even when we’re doing the work? In this reflective episode, we explore the psychology of motivation and learning, and why growth can be difficult to notice in the moment. Drawing on research from Anders Ericsson, Teresa Amabile, Leon Festinger, and Robert Bjork, this episode explains: • why improvement often feels slow and unclear • how motivation is linked to visible progress • why comparing yourself to others distorts reality • and how small, consistent actions build real change Through personal reflection and practical strategies, this episode invites you to shift your focus—from chasing results to noticing growth. Perfect for learners, students, athletes, and anyone trying to stay motivated on a long journey. If you like what I do, buy me a coffee => https://buymeacoffee.com/fzts9andx

#026 Making Time

If you like what I do, buy me a coffee => https://buymeacoffee.com/fzts9andx Where Did the Time Go? Slowing Down in a Life That Moves Too Fast Why does time feel like it’s speeding up? Days blur into weeks. Weeks into months. And suddenly, we find ourselves saying: “I don’t have time.” In this reflective episode, we explore the psychology of time perception and why modern life can feel so rushed—even when nothing has changed on the clock. Drawing on insights from Marc Wittmann, David Eagleman, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, and Daniel Kahneman, this episode explains: • why routine makes time feel shorter • how distraction fragments our experience • why memory shapes how long life feels • and how small choices can make time feel fuller again Through personal reflection and practical ideas, this episode invites you to slow down—not by doing less, but by being more present in what matters. Perfect for quiet evenings, reflection, and anyone feeling like time is slipping away too quickly.