#147 - Jennifer Breheny Wallace on Mattering
Evolving with Gratitude
Agency: Small Actions to Restore Mattering
Jennifer emphasizes personal agency and actionable moves—texts, compliments, and everyday invitations—to rebuild mattering.
What does it really take to thrive, not just achieve?
In this conversation, award-winning journalist and author Jennifer Breheny Wallace shares why mattering is a fundamental human need and how feeling valued for who we are, not just what we do, supports sustainable achievement, well-being, and connection.
We talk about the difference between belonging and mattering, the SAID framework, and small, meaningful ways to help ourselves and others feel seen and valued.
Thrive Global Article: Jennifer Breheny Wallace on Mattering
Mentioned on the show: The Surprising Way Sliding Door Moments Can Lead to Profound Gratitude (Counterfactual Thinking)
About Our Guest:
Jennifer Breheny Wallace is an award-winning journalist and bestselling author who explores the power of mattering in everyday life. Through research and storytelling, Wallace examines the hidden forces shaping modern life, from the crisis of meaning in achievement culture to the essential role of mattering in personal, workplace, and societal health.
Her first book, Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic — And What We Can Do About It, was a New York Times Bestseller, an Amazon Best Book of the Year, and a Next Big Idea selection. Her latest book Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose, is out now.
Wallace is a maternal mental health advocate at Calm, the mental health app, a consultant at Netflix, and a BCG BrightHouse Luminary. She has also partnered with The LEGO Group on its global "Play Unstoppable" campaign, aimed at addressing perfectionism and fostering confidence through play.
Wallace started her journalism career at CBS's “60 Minutes” and was part of the team that won the Robert F. Kennedy Awards for Excellence in Journalism. She is a contributor to The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post and frequently appears on national television programs.
About Lainie:
Lainie Rowell is a bestselling author, award-winning educator, and TEDx speaker. She is dedicated to human flourishing, focusing on community building, emotional intelligence, and honoring what makes each of us unique and dynamic through learner-driven design. She earned her degree in psychology and went on to earn both a post-graduate credential and a master's degree in education. An international keynote speaker, Lainie has presented in 41 states as well as in dozens of countries across 4 continents. As a consultant, Lainie’s client list ranges from Fortune 100 companies like Apple and Google to school districts and independent schools. Learn more at linktr.ee/lainierowell.
Website - LainieRowell.com
Instagram - @LainieRowell
LinkedIn - @LainieRowell
X/Twitter - @LainieRowell
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