Good Life Project
Jonathan Fields / Acast
Good Life Project is a podcast and video series for people navigating midlife with intention. Hosted by Jonathan Fields, each episode is a deep, honest conversation about what it actually takes to build a life that feels like yours, through the reinventions, reckonings, and reclamations that define your 40s, 50s, and beyond. Grounded in science, fueled by genuine curiosity, and always in service of the real work of living well. Often top-ranked, it’s been listened to and viewed more than 100 million times. New episodes weekly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
19 snips
Jan 19, 2026 • 1h 3min
How to Build Habits That Stick
James Clear, a renowned author and expert in habits, shares insightful strategies for building lasting habits. He emphasizes that true transformation stems from aligning habits with our identity rather than sheer willpower. Clear illustrates how small, consistent actions shape our beliefs and identity over time. He also discusses the critical role of environment in habit formation and contrasts enduring habits with addiction. With relatable anecdotes and practical advice, he teaches listeners how to create sustainable change through incremental improvements.
69 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 52min
How to Make Big Dreams Happen
Goals often fail because they're unrealistic and don't fit real life. Discover the 'Happiness Delay Trap' and how the 'I'll be happy when...' mindset keeps shifting what success looks like. Explore the innovative Success Scaffolding framework, which emphasizes compassion, flexibility, and a supportive structure for meaningful growth. Learn about setting a single, bold goal, and the importance of having a strong support team, while adopting practices that keep you on track even when life gets hectic.
Jan 12, 2026 • 48min
Why You Feel Drained (a Different Take) | Iyanla Vanzant
In this discussion, Iyanla Vanzant, a renowned spiritual teacher and author, dives into the vital concept of spiritual hygiene. She emphasizes the importance of clearing emotional debris to reclaim personal power. Iyanla reveals how fear and shame operate as hidden rulers in our lives, shaping our decisions. With practical tips, she suggests simple daily rituals for emotional release and self-awareness. Through her insights, listeners learn to recognize that true healing starts from within and the significance of trusting one's inner authority.
24 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 42min
The Year of Enough
Explore the liberating notion of 'enough' as a valid starting point for growth. Discover how the 'Happiness Delay' can leave us unfulfilled despite achieving goals. Learn practical exercises like the 'Already List' and 'What's Not Wrong?' check-in to cultivate contentment. Jonathan suggests an 'Inverse Resolution' to intentionally let go of what doesn’t serve us, creating space for joy. Embrace the idea that belonging, not desperation, can inspire our aspirations.
5 snips
Jan 5, 2026 • 57min
Samin Nosrat | Crafting a Life That Nourishes You
Samin Nosrat, an award-winning chef and the creative mind behind 'Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat,' joins the conversation to explore what truly nourishes us beyond achievements. She discusses the importance of ritual over perfection in meals, how cooking can express love and care, and the need for intentional rest amidst societal pressures. Samin reflects on her experiences with grief and community, emphasizing that a good life is about connection, creativity, and embracing imperfections. Her insights are an inspiring reminder of the joy found in simplicity.
10 snips
Jan 1, 2026 • 43min
The Unresolution: Why New Year’s Resolutions Fail & What Works Instead
Discover why traditional New Year’s resolutions often fail and how a kinder approach can lead to real change. Learn about the Unresolution concept, which prioritizes direction and compassionate experiments over rigid goals. Jonathan Fields emphasizes that personal growth doesn’t have to be about perfection. He encourages regular reflections on what works and the value of unfinished projects. Quitting thoughtfully is reframed as a wise choice, making growth feel more attainable and enjoyable.
38 snips
Dec 29, 2025 • 53min
Brené Brown | Why Courage Matters More Than Comfort
Brené Brown, a research professor and bestselling author, dives into the transformative power of vulnerability and courage. She shares her journey from feeling out of place to embracing her true self, revealing how common feelings of not belonging are. With practical tools, she illustrates why choosing courage over comfort fosters deeper connections. Brené emphasizes that one can't give what they don't possess, urging leaders and parents to model resilience. Ultimately, she reflects on gratitude for everyday moments as the key to a fulfilling life.
11 snips
Dec 25, 2025 • 44min
Myth of the Clean Slate
Forget the clean slate myth! True transformation lies in embracing your past, viewing setbacks as valuable lessons rather than failures. Discover how self-acceptance and understanding can fuel real growth. Jonathan Fields shares personal stories and exercises to help you appreciate each version of yourself. He encourages reframing failures and using your history as a resource, fostering compassion, and recognizing moments that reveal your true self. It's time to stop erasing who you are and start building from your unique journey.
19 snips
Dec 22, 2025 • 56min
How to Quiet Your Inner Critic & Escape Perfectionism | Dr. Ellen Hendriksen
Dr. Ellen Hendriksen, a clinical psychologist and author focused on anxiety and perfectionism, dives deep into the pitfalls of perfectionism. She unpacks the difference between healthy striving and destructive self-criticism, shedding light on how perfectionism affects mental and physical health. Ellen offers practical strategies for silencing the inner critic, stresses the importance of living by core values, and encourages embracing imperfection in both work and relationships. Her insights help redefine success and foster self-compassion.
Dec 18, 2025 • 40min
Turning Down Tinnitus
Jonathan shares his transformative journey with tinnitus, transitioning from despair to acceptance. He discusses how shifting his mindset turned the sound from an inner tormentor into a teacher. Mindfulness practices emerge as key tools in managing anxiety and reclaiming a sense of control. The power of breathwork and daily routines helps him reshape his perception of suffering. With practical tips and a loving-kindness meditation, Jonathan inspires listeners to find peace amidst uncertainty.
