

Evolving with Gratitude
Lainie Rowell
Evolving with Gratitude examines the science and stories that optimize happiness, relationships, and performance in work and life. Host Lainie Rowell sits down with leading thinkers, researchers, authors, and practitioners to explore evidence-based insights on gratitude, well-being, resilience, leadership, and human connection. Each episode offers practical ideas we can apply immediately to thrive personally and professionally.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 19, 2025 • 33min
#141 - Case Kenny on The Opposite of Settling
What if the traits you’ve been downplaying are actually your biggest advantage in love and life?In this high-energy conversation, Case Kenny—host of New Mindset, Who Dis? and author of The Opposite of Settling—flips the script on dating, self-worth, and the kind of connection that makes you more yourself, not less. We talk about why being “cringe” can be your superpower, the surprising link between security and independence, and how to spot the kind of partner who amplifies your spark instead of dimming it.If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your standards high, your heart open, and your weird fully intact, this one’s for you.Thrive Global Article:Case Kenny on The Opposite of Settling Book:The Opposite of Settling: How to Get Everything You Want Out of Love and Life Without Losing Your SparkAbout Our Guest:Case is on a mission to help people live more optimistic, mindful, and authentic lives. Since 2014, he has been writing, speaking, and teaching practical ways to cultivate self-awareness, build confidence, and quiet the overthinking mind. His podcast New Mindset, Who Dis? has resonated with millions of listeners, and his viral red pen writing on Instagram reaches hundreds of millions more. Through his best-selling journals, debut book That’s Bold of You, and live workshops around the world, he empowers people to challenge self-doubt through actionable mindfulness practices and trust that the best is yet to come. In addition to his work with the general public, Case also works with athletes to strengthen their mental resilience through guided mindfulness and journaling, helping them process transitions, overcome mental blocks, and build lasting confidence.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.comInstagram - @LainieRowellLinkedIn - @LainieRowellX/Twitter - @LainieRowell Evolving with Gratitude, the book is available here! And now, Bold Gratitude: The Journal Designed for You and by You is available too!Both Evolving with Gratitude & Bold Gratitude have generous bulk pricing for purchasing 10+ copies delivered to the same location.🙌📚➡️ bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount📚➡️ bit.ly/bgbulkdiscountJust fill out the forms linked above and someone will get back to you ASAP!

Jul 31, 2025 • 10min
#140 - Why Change is Psychologically Costly?
We don't resist change because we're lazy. We resist it because it's psychologically costly. Read the article linked below or listed to learn what we can do to overcome it! Thrive Global Article:Why Change Is Psychologically Costly—and What We Can Do About ItAbout 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.comInstagram - @LainieRowellLinkedIn - @LainieRowellX/Twitter - @LainieRowell Evolving with Gratitude, the book is available here! And now, Bold Gratitude: The Journal Designed for You and by You is available too!Both Evolving with Gratitude & Bold Gratitude have generous bulk pricing for purchasing 10+ copies delivered to the same location.🙌📚➡️ bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount📚➡️ bit.ly/bgbulkdiscountJust fill out the forms linked above and someone will get back to you ASAP!

Jun 24, 2025 • 47min
#139 - Peter H. Reynolds on “A Story Makes the Mission Transportable”
What if your next brave act didn’t need to be big—just bold enough to begin?In this heart-expanding episode, I’m joined by the incredible Peter H. Reynolds, beloved author, illustrator, and champion of creativity. Together, we talk about why starting matters more than getting it right, how to nurture creativity in kids (and ourselves), and what it really means to make your mark.Peter shares the surprising inspiration behind The Dot, what being "ish” means to him, and the power of leaving room for imperfection and possibility.Whether you’re an educator, creator, parent, or lifelong learner, this conversation is a reminder: your story matters, your voice matters, and it’s okay to begin before you feel ready.Thrive Global Article:Peter H. Reynolds on Creativity: A Story Makes the Mission TransportableAbout Our Guest:Peter is a New York Times best-selling children's book author illustrator (Judy Moody, The Dot, Ish, Sky Color, Someday ), selling over 20 million books in over 25 languages around the globe. In 1996, he founded FableVision as a social change agency to help move the world to a better place by creating "stories that matter, stories that move." FableVision's signature blend of positive media, storytelling and interactive technologies is sought after by a host of best-in-class organizations, such as PBS KIDS, Reading Is Fundamental, the Jim Henson Company, and National Wildlife Federation. Peter also founded FableVision Learning, a K-12 educational publishing company, as well as the nonprofit Reynolds Center for Teaching, Learning, and Creativity, and independent book and creativity shop called The Blue Bunny Bookstore in historic Dedham Square, Massachusetts. Follow Peter on Twitter and learn more about his story on his website. Explore Peter's hand behind FableVision's mission films here. Learn more about Peter.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.comInstagram - @LainieRowellLinkedIn - @LainieRowellX/Twitter - @LainieRowell Evolving with Gratitude, the book is available here! And now, Bold Gratitude: The Journal Designed for You and by You is available too!Both Evolving with Gratitude & Bold Gratitude have generous bulk pricing for purchasing 10+ copies delivered to the same location.🙌📚➡️ bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount📚➡️ bit.ly/bgbulkdiscountJust fill out the forms linked above and someone will get back to you ASAP!

Jun 10, 2025 • 32min
#138 - Eduardo Briceño on The Performance Paradox
Are you stuck in performance mode—and calling it growth?In this episode, Eduardo Briceño unpacks The Performance Paradox and what’s keeping so many of us from actually getting better.We talk about the key mindset shift high achievers need, why not all mistakes are created equal, and how to lead with both humility and ambition.If you want to grow on purpose—not just perform—this one’s for you.🎧 Tune in and break the cycle.Thrive Global Article:Eduardo Briceño on The Performance ParadoxAbout Our Guest:Eduardo Briceño is a global keynote speaker and facilitator who guides many of the world’s leading companies in developing cultures of continuous improvement, innovation, and high performance. His TED talk, “How To Get Better At The Things You Care About,” and his TEDx talk, “The Power of Belief,” have been viewed more than ten million times. His book, The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset into Action, won multiple awards. His work has been featured in Harvard Business Review, Big Think, Business Insider, Entrepreneur, Fast Company, Forbes, Inc., Quartz, and others.Earlier in his career, Eduardo was the co-founder and CEO of Mindset Works, the pioneer in growth mindset development services, which he started with Stanford professor Carol Dweck and which he led for over a decade. Prior to that, he was a venture capital investor with the Sprout Group and served on several for-profit and non-profit boards. Before that, he was an investment banking analyst with Credit Suisse. He is a Pahara-Aspen Fellow, a member of the Aspen Institute’s Global Leadership Network, and an inductee in the Happiness Hall of Fame.Originally from Caracas, Venezuela, Eduardo holds bachelor’s degrees in economics and engineering from the University of Pennsylvania, as well as an MBA and M.A. in education from Stanford University. Most importantly, he continues to enjoy lifelong learning every day.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.comInstagram - @LainieRowellLinkedIn - @LainieRowellX/Twitter - @LainieRowell Evolving with Gratitude, the book is available here! And now, Bold Gratitude: The Journal Designed for You and by You is available too!Both Evolving with Gratitude & Bold Gratitude have generous bulk pricing for purchasing 10+ copies delivered to the same location.🙌📚➡️ bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount📚➡️ bit.ly/bgbulkdiscountJust fill out the forms linked above and someone will get back to you ASAP!

May 27, 2025 • 43min
#137 - Aliza Pressman on All Feelings Are Welcome, All Behaviors Are Not
What if one sentence could shift the way we think about parenting, leadership, and connection?In this episode, Dr. Aliza Pressman—developmental psychologist and author of The 5 Principles of Parenting shares the mindset that’s reshaped how so many of us set boundaries and hold space for big emotions.We talk about the real meaning of loving limits, how to show up with connection and authority, and why being a “cat” might just be your secret weapon for parenting teens.If you’ve ever wrestled with setting boundaries, staying grounded, or wondering whether “good enough” really is—this episode is your permission to exhale.Thrive Global Article:Aliza Pressman on All Feelings Are Welcome, All Behaviors Are NotAbout Our Guest:Dr. Aliza Pressman is a developmental psychologist with nearly two decades of experience working with families and the health care providers who care for them. She is the author of the New York Times bestselling book The 5 Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans, and the host of the award-winning podcast Raising Good Humans.Aliza is the co-founding director of The Mount Sinai Parenting Center and is an assistant clinical professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital. She holds degrees from Dartmouth College, Teacher’s College, and Columbia University. Aliza is the mother of two teenagers.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.comInstagram - @LainieRowellLinkedIn - @LainieRowellX/Twitter - @LainieRowell Evolving with Gratitude, the book is available here! And now, Bold Gratitude: The Journal Designed for You and by You is available too!Both Evolving with Gratitude & Bold Gratitude have generous bulk pricing for purchasing 10+ copies delivered to the same location.🙌📚➡️ bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount📚➡️ bit.ly/bgbulkdiscountJust fill out the forms linked above and someone will get back to you ASAP!

May 20, 2025 • 10min
#136 - The One Practice Scientifically Proven to Benefit Everyone—But Most Still Resist
We say we want less stress, better sleep, more clarity. So why do we skip the one practice that actually delivers?In this episode, we’re talking about journaling—not as a trend, but as a proven, powerful ritual that supports your mental and physical well-being. And no, it doesn’t need to be pretty. It just needs to be real.You’ll hear why the science is clear, why the resistance is real, and how to override the doubt and just start.Spoiler: the blank page might be uncomfortable at first—but on the other side is clarity, calm, and connection. Grab a pen. Let’s go.And you can find the article on Thrive Global! The One Practice Scientifically Proven to Benefit Everyone—But Most Still ResistI hope you enjoy whatever adventure you choose! 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.comInstagram - @LainieRowellLinkedIn - @LainieRowellX/Twitter - @LainieRowell Evolving with Gratitude, the book is available here! And now, Bold Gratitude: The Journal Designed for You and by You is available too!Both Evolving with Gratitude & Bold Gratitude have generous bulk pricing for purchasing 10+ copies delivered to the same location.🙌📚➡️ bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount📚➡️ bit.ly/bgbulkdiscountJust fill out the forms linked above and someone will get back to you ASAP!

May 13, 2025 • 32min
#135 - Myriam Sandler on Playful by Design
Feeling burned out trying to do everything as a parent? You’re not alone—and you’re not failing.In this episode, Myriam Sandler, creator of Mothercould and author of Playful by Design, shares a powerful reframe: independent play isn’t about stepping away from your kids—it’s about helping everyone thrive.We talk about the hidden pressure parents carry, why boredom is a good thing (yes, really), and how to set up play spaces that invite creativity without adding stress.If you’re craving more breathing room, more connection, and less guilt—this one’s for you.Thrive Global Article:Myriam Sandler on Why Independent Play Isn’t Just for Kids—It’s a Lifeline for Parents TooAbout Our Guest:Myriam Sandler is the creator of Mothercould (@mothercould), a beloved kids' activity and family lifestyle community trusted by millions of families. As a mother of three, Myriam shares engaging, easy-to- follow video tutorials that offer accessible DIY play ideas, parenting hacks, family travel tips, and more. Mothercould has grown to offer family-friendly, problem-solving products now available at major retailers.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.comInstagram - @LainieRowellLinkedIn - @LainieRowellX/Twitter - @LainieRowell Evolving with Gratitude, the book is available here! And now, Bold Gratitude: The Journal Designed for You and by You is available too!Both Evolving with Gratitude & Bold Gratitude have generous bulk pricing for purchasing 10+ copies delivered to the same location.🙌📚➡️ bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount📚➡️ bit.ly/bgbulkdiscountJust fill out the forms linked above and someone will get back to you ASAP!

May 6, 2025 • 8min
#134 - The Bold Gratitude Sleep Hack
What if the key to better sleep isn’t another supplement, app, or expensive gadget—but something already in your head (and your heart)?In this episode, I’m sharing my favorite nighttime ritual—one that’s simple, calming, and grounded in gratitude. It’s not just soothing… it’s science-backed. And it’s helped me fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling more like myself.If your mind races at bedtime, this gentle shift might be the thing you didn’t know you needed. No pressure, no perfection—just a calming way to close your day with intention.You’re gonna want to try it tonight. And you can find the article on Thrive Global! The Bold Gratitude Sleep HackI hope you enjoy whatever adventure you choose! 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.comInstagram - @LainieRowellLinkedIn - @LainieRowellX/Twitter - @LainieRowell Evolving with Gratitude, the book is available here! And now, Bold Gratitude: The Journal Designed for You and by You is available too!Both Evolving with Gratitude & Bold Gratitude have generous bulk pricing for purchasing 10+ copies delivered to the same location.🙌📚➡️ bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount📚➡️ bit.ly/bgbulkdiscountJust fill out the forms linked above and someone will get back to you ASAP!

Apr 29, 2025 • 38min
#133 - Sunita Sah on Redefining Defiance
What if defiance wasn’t about rebellion—but about staying true to yourself when the pressure to comply is real?In this episode, Dr. Sunita Sah challenges everything we’ve been taught about obedience and reframes defiance as a skill—one we can practice, refine, and use to show up with integrity.This conversation will shift how you think about discomfort, doubt, and that gut feeling you’ve been trained to ignore.Because sometimes the boldest move isn’t saying yes—it’s knowing when (and how) to say no.Thrive Global Article:Sunita Sah Is Redefining Defiance—and It’s aSkill We All NeedAbout Our Guest:Dr. Sunita Sah investigates what makes us comply. She is an award-winning, tenured professor and organizational psychologist at Cornell University who has conducted groundbreaking research on defiance, advice, and influence.A trained physician, she practiced medicine in the United Kingdom and worked as a management consultant for the pharmaceutical industry. She currently teaches executives, leaders, and students in healthcare and business. Dr. Sah is a sought-after international speaker and consultant, advisor to government agencies, and former Commissioner of the National Commission on Forensic Science. Her multidisciplinary research and analyses have been widely published in leading academic journals and media entities including The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Harvard Business Review, and Scientific American.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.comInstagram - @LainieRowellLinkedIn - @LainieRowellTwitter - @LainieRowell Evolving with Gratitude, the book is available here! And now, Bold Gratitude: The Journal Designed for You and by You is available too!Both Evolving with Gratitude & Bold Gratitude have generous bulk pricing for purchasing 10+ copies delivered to the same location.🙌📚➡️ bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount📚➡️ bit.ly/bgbulkdiscountJust fill out the forms linked above and someone will get back to you ASAP!

Apr 22, 2025 • 8min
#132 - Our Minds Can Lie to Us: Why Connecting with Others Matters More Than We Think
Think staying in your bubble is the safer, easier choice? Turns out, your brain might be lying to you.In this episode, we explore what research really says about connection—and why a quick chat with a stranger might just be the happiness boost you didn’t know you needed. From cocktail parties to elevator rides, we’re flipping the script on awkward small talk and uncovering the power of bold questions that build real trust.You’ll hear insights from Charles Duhigg, Dr. Robert Waldinger, and the study I bring up at almost every gathering (yes, I’m that kind of nerd—and it works).If you’re craving more joy, deeper connection, and a fresh way to show up in everyday moments—this one’s for you.And you can find the article on Thrive Global! Our Minds Can Lie to Us: Why Connecting with Others Matters More Than We ThinkI hope you enjoy whatever adventure you choose! 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.comInstagram - @LainieRowellLinkedIn - @LainieRowellTwitter - @LainieRowell Evolving with Gratitude, the book is available here! And now, Bold Gratitude: The Journal Designed for You and by You is available too!Both Evolving with Gratitude & Bold Gratitude have generous bulk pricing for purchasing 10+ copies delivered to the same location.🙌📚➡️ bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount📚➡️ bit.ly/bgbulkdiscountJust fill out the forms linked above and someone will get back to you ASAP!


