Best Gravity Commons Podcasts (2025)

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Paul Sloan: How We Misunderstand Jesus' Relationship to the Law of Moses 1:05:31

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2d ago1:05:31

1:05:31

We talked with Dr. Paul T. Sloan about a common misunderstanding about how Jesus related to the Law of Moses - namely that the Law is bad and Jesus comes to save us from it. Instead, Sloan argues that Jesus was announcing a restoration of the covenant, not its nullification. His book is Jesus and the Law of Moses. Paul T. Sloan is Associate Profess…

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When Maps Go Wrong & The Science of Everyday Courage 49:03

1d ago49:03

49:03

We’ve all done it — used a big fancy word to sound smarter or more impressive. But does it actually work? Research says no. In fact, the secret to sounding intelligent and confident has nothing to do with big words at all. I’ll explain what is far more powerful. https://www.businessinsider.com/use-simple-language-to-sound-smarter-2015-9 Maps are fa…

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What Wikipedia’s Success Reveals About Trust & Are We All Too Fearful? 47:01

4d ago47:01

47:01

When you’re stuck on a multiple-choice question, should you change your answer or trust your gut? Most people swear your first instinct is best — but science says otherwise. Listen as I reveal what research really shows about when to stick — and when to switch. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15898871/ Wikipedia shouldn’t work. It’s built on the id…

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Mind-Body Medicine: Psilocybin and the Gut 55:50

5d ago55:50

55:50

A growing number of patients with stubborn IBS symptoms are asking: if the gut and brain are wired together, could changing one transform the other? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Emeran Mayer and Dr. Erin Mauney to explore what the emerging field of psychedelic-assisted therapy could mean for gut-brain health, beyond the headlines and hype.…

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The Dark Side of Achievement & The Astonishing Science of the Sea-SYSK Choice 48:29

6d ago48:29

48:29

Why are the numbers 1, 2, and 3 across the top of a phone keypad but across the bottom of a calculator? It’s not random — and once you hear the logic, you’ll never look at a keypad the same way again. That’s just one of three quirky mysteries I explain at the start of this episode, along with surprising insights about portholes and time. Source: Iv…

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How You Can Access Hidden Markets & How to Be A Super Conversationalist 50:51

8d ago50:51

50:51

Hooters has no male waiters. Isn’t that discrimination? Or could it be that men just don’t want to work there? The answer is no to both questions. Listen as I explain the answer and why it is perfectly legal. https://www.businessinsider.com/how-can-hooters-hire-only-women-2015-9 How do some people manage to get tables at “fully booked” restaurants,…

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Liz Theoharis & Charon Hribar: Liturgies and Rituals from the Freedom Church of the Poor 57:56

9d ago57:56

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We talked with Liz Theoharis and Charon Hribar about how prayers, rituals, and liturgies help to sustain movements for social change. Their book We Pray Freedom is full of prayers, resources, and stories that grew out of communities committed to abolishing poverty. Dr. Charon Hribar (Cha-Ron Reebar) is a visionary leader, musician, and scholar. She…

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Think You’re Too Smart to Be Scammed? & The Invention That Changed Medicine 48:51

11d ago48:51

48:51

People who live the longest aren’t always the ones with the “perfect” body weight. In fact, research suggests that being slightly overweight can actually increase your life expectancy. It sounds counterintuitive, but the science may surprise you. Listen as I explain what’s really going on. https://healthland.time.com/2013/01/02/being-overweight-is-…

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Why Creativity Isn’t Always Good & The Magic of Horror Movies at Halloween - SYSK Choice 49:27

13d ago49:27

49:27

Your grandmother was right — you should sit up straight. Posture affects far more than your appearance. It influences your mood, productivity, and even how well you think. I begin this episode with surprising research showing how simply improving your posture can boost everything from confidence to cognitive performance. https://www.deseret.com/202…

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Why Winners Often Lose & What Great Teams Do Differently 45:47

15d ago45:47

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When you ask someone to recall something from deep in their memory, watch their face — they’ll probably do something that actually helps them remember. You might do it too without realizing it. Listen as I reveal what it is and why it works. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/ulterior-motives/201110/why-do-you-close-your-eyes-remember Have you…

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Hanna Reichel: Living Faithfully at Another End of the World (An Emergency Devotional) 50:08

17d ago50:08

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We talked with theologian Hanna Reichel about their book For Such a Time as This: An Emergency Devotional, which is a guide for ordinary Christians seeking to live faithfully in our era of political polarization, eroding democratic norms, and rising authoritarianism. It is a timely resource for believers seeking spiritual grounding amid societal up…

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The Science of Morbid Curiosity & The Dirty Secrets of Clean Energy 48:50

18d ago48:50

48:50

When you want to reach out to someone — to ask them on a date, invite them to an event, or simply connect — what’s the best way to do it? Text? Email? A phone call? Research shows one option is far more effective, and it’s not what most people assume. Listen as I reveal what science says is the best way to reach out. https://greatergood.berkeley.ed…

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How to Master Emotional Power & How Elevators Changed the World - SYSK Choice 50:58

20d ago50:58

50:58

As people age, forgetfulness often creeps in — but not all memory loss is inevitable. In fact, some of the most common causes are preventable, and with the right strategies, memory can be protected and even improved. I’ll explain what really drives age-related forgetfulness and what you can do about it. Source: William Cone, PhD, author of Stop Mem…

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The Problem with Authenticity & The Psychology That Fuels War 48:20

22d ago48:20

48:20

What really happens when two people kiss? Far more than you think. From the brain chemistry it triggers, to the subtle information you’re exchanging, to the dozens of muscles involved — kissing is a complex act with fascinating effects on both body and mind. https://www.thehealthy.com/family/relationships/6-ways-kissing-makes-you-stronger/#ixzz3kK7…

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BONUS: You Might Also Like: "On Point" 43:02

24d ago43:02

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We are sharing an episode of On Point with Meghna Chakrabarti. On Point is a rare public space where you hear nuanced explorations of complex topics live and in real time. Meghna leads provocative conversations that help make sense of the world, with urgency, timeliness and depth. In this episode Meghna asks: Could sunlight help treat disease? She …

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Hillary McBride: Understanding Spiritual Trauma and the Process of Healing 54:57

23d ago54:57

54:57

We talked (again!) with psychologist Hillary McBride, this time about religious trauma, spiritual abuse, and how faith-based wounds can leave lasting scars that impact every aspect of our lives. In her new book Holy Hurt: Understanding Spiritual Trauma and the Process of Healing, McBride delivers a profound message: spiritual trauma is real, widesp…

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How Gravity Affects Your Health & Jim Cramer on Beating the Market 48:52

25d ago48:52

48:52

Ever notice how weekdays feel different from one another? Mondays carry a heavy vibe, while Fridays seem lighter and more exciting. Science has a fascinating explanation for why certain days have a stronger “feel” than others, and we kick off this episode with the surprising psychology behind it. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-3209…

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The Science of Goal Setting & The Truth About Denial - SYSK Choice 50:42

27d ago50:42

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Ever wondered if there’s really a difference between hitting Restart and Shutdown on your PC? Turns out, there is — and knowing which one to use could save you a lot of frustration the next time your computer is acting up. I’ll explain why one option is far better when it comes to fixing problems. https://computer.howstuffworks.com/restarting-shutt…

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How to Get Better Results with AI & The Science of Healing Trauma 50:22

29d ago50:22

50:22

Expiration dates aren’t always what they seem. While most packaged foods carry them, some foods — like salt — can last virtually forever. In fact, there’s a surprising list of everyday staples that can outlive the labels and stay good for years. Listen as I reveal which foods never really expire. https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/long-term-food-s…

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Michelle Van Loon: Letting Go of Evangelicalism’s Nonessentials 42:47

1M ago42:47

42:47

By Gravity Commons

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The Smart Way to Spend Money & History That Never Happened 50:47

1M ago50:47

50:47

How you walk doesn’t just reflect your mood — it can actually shape it. Research shows that adjusting your stride can boost happiness, and even a short walk outside could be the smartest thing you do today. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/10/141015143259.htm When it comes to spending money, one-size-fits-all advice doesn’t work. Should y…

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What Nature Reveals About Living Longer & Why Smart People Believe Irrational Things-SYSK Choice 50:25

1M ago50:25

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If you’re stocking up on Halloween candy, do you know which treats kids actually want the most? This episode opens with a list of the top 10 most popular Halloween candies — and it may not be what you expect. https://www.cincinnati.com/story/entertainment/2023/10/03/blow-pops-win-title-ohio-favorite-halloween-candy/71041875007/ Some animals live un…

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Deadly Risks You Overlook & Why We Treat Pets Like People 49:46

1M ago49:46

49:46

What really happens when you stand or sit up straight? More than you think. Posture affects your body and your mind in surprising ways. This episode begins with the science-backed benefits of tuning in to your posture. Source: https://www.medicaldaily.com/pulse/why-you-should-stand-straight-benefits-good-posture-345598 What’s most likely to kill yo…

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Zero Gravity Biomechanics: Lessons from Astronaut Training 39:34

1M ago39:34

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Join Zach and Lindsey on Beyond Motion as they blast off into the fascinating intersection of space exploration and biomechanics. From neutral buoyancy pools that trained Apollo astronauts, to vibration-isolated treadmills on the International Space Station, to NASA's creation of digital astronaut models—discover how the challenges of living and wo…

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Gravity Resilience: The Gut-Brain-Diet Connection with Brennan Spiegel, MD 56:46

1M ago56:46

56:46

Dr. Brennan Spiegel, author of Pull: How Gravity Shapes Your Body, Steadies the Mind, and Guides Our Health, reveals how gravity shapes everything from our digestive health to our emotional wellbeing in this fascinating exploration of "biogravitational medicine." He presents the revolutionary concept that conditions like IBS and depression may be t…

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Benjamin Wyatt: The Messy Story of the Nicene Creed and Why it Matters 57:53

1M ago57:53

57:53

We talked with Episcopal priest Ben Wyatt about his book Christ and the Council: Conflict, Politics, Theology, and the Outrageous, Extraordinary Story of the Church's First Creed, which is about the complex story of how the Nicene Creed came to be, how Christians decide what is true, and what it can teach us about today's church conflicts. Ben Wyat…

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The Rise of Psychobabble and the Brilliant History of Photography 49:35

1M ago49:35

49:35

Vacations are supposed to be relaxing, but did you know there are proven ways to make them even better? Research shows that with a few simple strategies, you can maximize the happiness and memories you take away from your trip. This episode begins with science-backed tips to optimize your next getaway. https://www.vox.com/2015/7/22/9013783/vacation…

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Mastering the Art of Speaking on the Spot & The Surprising Story of Breakfast Cereal - SYSK Choice 48:48

1M ago48:48

48:48

If you walked into your backyard and scooped up just a pinch of dirt, you’d be holding an entire underground universe in your fingers — one teeming with life and mysteries you’ve probably never imagined. I’ll reveal what’s really hidden in that soil. Source: David W. Wolfe, author of Tales From The Underground https://amzn.to/3tvUBIk Speaking in fr…

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The Science of Focus and Distraction & Unlocking Emotional Intelligence 49:22

1M ago49:22

49:22

Why do people cheat when they know it’s wrong? Whether it’s on a test or in a relationship, the answer may lie in your hormones. This episode begins with surprising research that reveals the powerful role biology plays in dishonest behavior.(https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-3178947/What-makes-cheat-HORMONES-People-high-levels-certain-chem…

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Beth Allison Barr: How Marriage Replaced Ordination as a Woman's Path to Ministry 1:06:20

1M ago1:06:20

1:06:20

As a pastor's wife for twenty-five years, Beth Allison Barr has lived with assumptions about what she should do and who she should be. We talked with her about her book Becoming the Pastor's Wife: How Marriage Replaced Ordination as a Woman's Path to Ministry, where she draws on that experience and her academic expertise to trace the history of the…

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The Mystery of Common Knowledge & Why Some People Are Never On Time 49:11

2M ago49:11

49:11

If I showed you some photos of yourself and asked you to pick out the one that most accurately represented what you really looked like – could you do it? Listen as I begin this episode by explaining why you most likely could not. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/06/150623200016.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com Common knowledge is something that…

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Surprising Benefits of Being Awkward & The Amazing Power of Seeds - SYSK Choice 46:52

2M ago46:52

46:52

We’ve all heard the test-taking advice: “If you’re stuck, trust your first answer.” But is that really the smart move? Research says no — and I begin this episode by explaining why going with your gut on exams might actually hurt your score. Source: Joseph T. Hallinan, author of Why We Make Mistakes (https://amzn.to/44PV4SQ). Feeling awkward or emb…

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The Promise and Peril of Disruptive Technology & How Being in Nature Changes You 50:01

2M ago50:01

50:01

Who hasn’t craved something sweet and delicious? You try to resist, but your brain keeps insisting. Surprisingly, there’s a simple trick that can make that craving disappear almost instantly. Listen as I reveal the science-backed way to quiet your sweet tooth. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sweet-tooth-disgusting-food_n_55afe669e4b0a9b9485360de Dis…

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Will Harrison Jr.: Disability Justice and Advocacy 1:04:41

2M ago1:04:41

1:04:41

We talked with Licensed Clinical Social Worker Will Harrison, Jr. about living with Moebius Syndrome, a rare disability that affects his facial expressions and speech, and about what he has learned at the intersection of disability, faith, and deconstruction. Will reflects on his upbringing in a Southern Baptist church, the challenges he faced in p…

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How to Harness Your Intuition & The Surprising Science Hidden in Music 49:19

2M ago49:19

49:19

It might sound strange, but the way you evaluate your relationship could actually depend on the chair you’re sitting in. Multiple experiments suggest that posture and stance can influence how you judge your marriage or partnership. In the opening segment, I explain this fascinating connection. https://archive.nytimes.com/well.blogs.nytimes.com/2015…

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The Secrets to Achieving Your Goals & Origin Stories of Our Favorite Phrases - SYSK Choice 49:18

2M ago49:18

49:18

Speed reading might sound impressive, but research shows that slowing down can actually improve comprehension, retention, and enjoyment. In this opening segment, we explore why reading at a slower pace could be the real key to getting the most out of your books and articles. https://www.bustle.com/p/7-reasons-slow-reading-is-actually-a-good-thing-b…

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Why We All Crave Social Status & The Extraordinary Sense That Stops You From Falling 49:36

2M ago49:36

49:36

You probably aren’t letting your dishwasher do its job the way it’s designed to — and you may be wasting time (and water) in the process. In this opening segment, we reveal why your dishwasher is smarter than you think, how to make it work harder for you, and the one thing it desperately wants you to stop doing. https://www.womansday.com/home/organ…

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Regina Cates: A Call to Brave and Thoughtful Conversations 35:30

2M ago35:30

35:30

We talked with author and activist Regina Cates about how to have brave and thoughtful conversations about difficult topics like sexual abuse, racism, religious and political corruption, abortion, and sexual orientation. Her book The Real Conversation Jesus Wants Us to Have is part memoir, part social commentary, and part call to action, and it inv…

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The Really Good News About Stress & Why Movies Just Aren’t the Same Anymore 49:21

2M ago49:21

49:21

Why do kids really get the summer off from school? The popular myth is that it was to help out on the family farm—but that’s not true at all. The real reason is much simpler (and more obvious). This episode begins with the surprising explanation.Source: https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/56901/why-do-students-get-summers Stress often gets a bad re…

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How to Improve at Anything & The Truth About Owning Nothing-SYSK Choice 48:05

2M ago48:05

48:05

Walking is great exercise. However, the speed you walk at can make a big difference. The right pace can offer health benefits and can have a surprising impact on how long you live. Source: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/people-who-walk-faster-tend-to-live-longer How do top performers get to be the best at what they do? Many people assume it…

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Why You Wear Your Hair That Way & The Surprising Science of Human Stupidity 49:26

2M ago49:26

49:26

When you stay at a short-term rental property such as Airbnb, you often notice security cameras. After all, it is someone’s home. But what about cameras inside the home? This episode begins with surprising data about just how common hidden surveillance is—and what every guest should know. Source: https://www.ipx1031.com/surveillance-rental-study/ F…

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Isaac Villegas: A Christian Vision for Immigrant Justice 48:06

2M ago48:06

48:06

We talked with pastor and author Isaac Villegas about his on-the-ground justice activism for immigrants. His book Migrant God: A Christian Vision for Immigrant Justice cuts a new path through worn-out talking points and bears witness to loving solidarity among Christians--both with and without US citizenship--and offers a theologically astute and p…

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The Gut Dictionary: Probiotics, Prebiotics and Postbiotics Explained. 47:23

2M ago47:23

47:23

Dr. Mary Ellen Sanders, an expert in probiotic microbiology, helps us decode the often confusing world of probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics by explaining their scientific definitions, evidence-based benefits, and practical applications for gut health (and beyond). This episode has been sponsored by Activia. • Probiotics are live microorganism…

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The Secret World of Credit Cards & The Science of Building Unshakable Confidence 48:34

2M ago48:34

48:34

Why do humans blush—and why does it feel so uncomfortable when someone points it out? Charles Darwin once called blushing “the most peculiar and most human of all expressions.” In this episode, I start by exploring the surprising science of blushing and what it really communicates about us. Source: https://www.rd.com/article/why-do-people-blush/ Cr…

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Simple Habits For Better Decisions & How Modern Tech Predicts the Weather -SYSK Choice 47:37

2M ago47:37

47:37

How often do you think the average American checks their phone each day? Whatever your guess, you’ll probably be shocked by the actual number. This episode kicks off with some eye-opening stats about our cell phone obsession and just how much it’s shaping our daily lives. https://www.reviews.org/mobile/cell-phone-addiction/ When it comes to decisio…

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How Smart People Can Make Dumb Choices & The Serious Dangers of Social Media 49:25

2M ago49:25

49:25

Chances are, your home is full of things you don’t use, don’t need, and maybe don’t even recognize. Listen to the start of this episode and you’ll discover a simple list of household items you can toss out today — without a second thought. Clearing them out will free up space and make room for what truly matters. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/thin…

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Marc Alan Schelske: Journaling for Spiritual Growth, Part 2 58:20

2M ago58:20

58:20

Marc Alan Schelske joins us once again to talk (once again) about journaling: what it is, why it works, and how to do it in a way that facilitates spiritual growth. Marc also shared personally and vulnerably about his own spiritual journey. No matter what your history is with journaling, Marc's method (outlined in his recently re-released book Jour…

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Unlocking Your Primal Intelligence & The Tug-of-War Between Competition and Cooperation 49:56

2M ago49:56

49:56

Your phone’s battery is an engineering marvel — but you might be killing it without even realizing it. In this opening segment, you’ll learn simple, science-backed charging habits that can dramatically extend your battery’s life and keep it holding a charge for years to come. https://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/gadgets/a15731/best-way-to-ke…

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The Psychology of Lying & The Race for Outer Space - SYSK Choice 48:41

3M ago48:41

48:41

No one likes making a fool of themselves — but it turns out, it might be one of the best things you can do for your happiness. In this opening segment, we explore how moments of public embarrassment can lead to surprising psychological benefits. It may feel awful in the moment, but research says it could actually improve your well-being in the long…

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How Do You Create Happiness? & Why Dogs Behave the Way They Do 49:11

3M ago49:11

49:11

“Happy Birthday to You” might seem like a simple song, but its history is anything but. It has generated millions of dollars in royalties and been at the center of a wild legal saga. In this opening segment, you'll hear the fascinating backstory of one of the world’s most famous tunes — and learn about its current legal status. https://www.wipo.int…