

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

Apr 15, 2025 • 39min
#131 - Gretchen Rubin on Secrets of Adulthood
What if the best life advice didn’t come in a long-winded lecture—but in one short sentence that actually sticks?In this episode, Gretchen Rubin—New York Times bestselling author of The Happiness Project and Secrets of Adulthood—shares the bold, memorable truths that can shift how we show up every day. From reframing procrastination to recognizing how our senses shape our gratitude, Gretchen breaks down big ideas in a way that’s instantly usable.We also dive into her Four Tendencies framework (you’ll want to take the quiz!) and how to stop hiding behind busyness and start living with more clarity, intention, and joy.This isn’t a to-do list—it’s a mindset shift. And it starts with one simple phrase:“The bird, the bee, and the bat all fly—but they use different kinds of wings.”Let’s figure out your wings—and fly your way. Thrive Global Article:Gretchen Rubin Reveals Her Secrets of AdulthoodAbout Our Guest:Gretchen Rubin is one of today’s most influential and thought-provoking observers of happiness and human nature. She’s known for her ability to convey complex ideas—from science to literature to stories from her own life—with levity and clarity.She’s the author of many bestselling books, such as The Happiness Project, Better Than Before, and The Four Tendencies, which have sold millions of copies in more than thirty languages. Her most recent book is Life in Five Senses.She’s also host of the popular podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, and founder of award-winning Happier app, which helps people track their happiness-boosting habits.Gretchen Rubin has been interviewed by Oprah, eaten dinner with Nobel Prize-winner Daniel Kahneman, walked arm-in-arm with the Dalai Lama, had her work reported on in a medical journal, been written up in the New Yorker, and been an answer on Jeopardy! After starting her career in law, she realized she wanted to be a writer while she was clerking for Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. Raised in Kansas City, she lives in New York City with her family.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 8, 2025 • 8min
#130 - Maybe, Maybe Not: Navigating Uncertainty & Appreciating Impermanence
Ever find yourself desperate to label a moment—good or bad, success or failure, right or wrong—just to feel a little more in control?This episode will challenge that instinct.We're unpacking one of the most powerful mindset shifts I’ve ever come across—rooted in ancient wisdom, backed by modern psychology, and grounded in something we all face: uncertainty.You’ll hear how a simple phrase—“Maybe, maybe not. We’ll see.”—can rewire your response to the unknown, help you ride the waves of change with more peace, and keep you anchored when life feels like a lot.We’re also diving into a surprisingly effective gratitude boost (hint: it’s not a list) and a 3-step reflection to help you find clarity when the future feels foggy.This isn’t about toxic positivity.It’s about perspective, presence, and progress—even when the path ahead isn’t clear.Let’s stop labeling and start living.Because maybe… just maybe… this moment is leading somewhere beautiful.BTW—You can choose your adventure with this one—read the article, listen to the episode, or explore both. And you can find the article on Thrive Global! Maybe, Maybe Not: Navigating Uncertainty & Appreciating ImpermanenceI 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!

Apr 1, 2025 • 29min
#129 - Kimberley Quinlan on Rethinking Anxiety
Ever feel like your brain is constantly scanning for danger, even when there’s no real threat? You’re not alone. Kimberley Quinlan is here to explain why our minds default to a just-in-case mode—always bracing for the worst—and what we can do to break the cycle.In this episode, we’re diving into anxiety, self-compassion, and the power of rewiring our response to fear. Kimberley, a leading therapist and host of Your Anxiety Toolkit, shares game-changing insights on how to stop fighting panic, reframe intrusive thoughts, and create a kinder, more resilient mindset.If anxiety has ever held you back, this is the episode you didn’t know you needed.Thrive Global Article:Kimberley Quinlan on Rethinking Anxiety: Escaping the "Just in Case" TrapAbout Our Guest:Kimberley Quinlan is a licensed marriage and family therapist, founder of CBTschool.com, and host of the Your Anxiety Toolkit Podcast. With extensive training in evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Kimberley specializes in treating OCD, anxiety, eating disorders, and body-focused repetitive behaviors. Her expertise has been featured in the Los Angeles Times, Wall Street Journal, ABC’s 20/20, Telemundo, and more.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!

Mar 25, 2025 • 10min
#128 - From Aspirational to Actual: Becoming Our Best Selves
Ever feel like your best self is just out of reach—like you know what you should be doing but somehow never quite get there? You’re not alone. But here’s the deal: that gap between who you are now and who you want to be? It’s not a roadblock—it’s a bridge. And you can start building it today.In this episode, we’re getting real about what actually moves the needle:🔥 The one shift that makes habits easier (and actually sustainable).🔥 How to stop numbing the now and start making progress without missing the moment.🔥 A mindset trick that will have your future self high-fiving you.🔥 Why your mornings and nights matter way more than you think.🔥 An innovative way to turn vision into action and move toward your best self—starting today.🔥 An innovative way to turn vision into action and move toward your best self—starting today.This isn’t about waiting for motivation—it’s about taking control. So, are you ready to stop hoping and start doing?BTW—You can choose your adventure with this one—read the article, listen to the episode, or explore both. And you can find the article on Thrive Global! From Aspirational to Actual: Becoming Our Best SelvesI 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!

Mar 18, 2025 • 24min
#127 - Charles Duhigg on Supercommunicators
Who are the people in your life who just get you? The ones who ask the right questions, listen deeply, and make every conversation feel effortless? Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author Charles Duhigg calls them Supercommunicators—and here’s the kicker: it’s not an inborn gift, it’s a skill you can learn.In this episode, Charles breaks down the science of deep, meaningful communication—how to stop talking past people, truly hear what’s being said, and connect on a level that changes everything. If you’ve ever struggled with miscommunication (who hasn’t?), this one’s for you.Thrive Global Article:Charles Duhigg on Supercommunicators: The Secret to Meaningful ConversationsAbout Our Guest:As a journalist, Charles Duhigg has worked at The New York Times, where he won a Pulitzer Prize, and The New Yorker magazine.He is also the author of The Power of Habit, which spent over three years on bestseller lists, and Smarter Faster Better, which was also a bestseller.His latest book, Supercommunicators, was published in early 2024 and has remained on bestseller lists since its release.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!

Mar 11, 2025 • 8min
#126 - Bold Compassion: The Courage to Care for Ourselves, Our People, and the World
Compassion isn’t weakness. It’s not about being a pushover. It’s bold. It takes guts to be kind—to ourselves, to the people closest to us, and to a world that sometimes feels like too much.In this episode, we’re flipping the script on what it really means to care. Bold Compassion isn’t just about feeling—it’s about doing. It’s about challenging the way we speak to ourselves, shifting how we show up for those we love, and finding ways to make a difference (without burning out).If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, snapped at someone you love, or felt overwhelmed by the world’s problems—this one’s for you.BTW—You can choose your adventure with this one—read the article, listen to the episode, or explore both. And you can find the article on Thrive Global! Bold Compassion: The Courage to Care for Ourselves, Our People, and the WorldI 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!

Mar 4, 2025 • 40min
#125 - Charan Ranganath on Why We Remember
What if your memory could be the key to unlocking greater happiness, productivity, and resilience? In this episode, Dr. Charan Ranganath, Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at UC Davis and author of Why We Remember, takes us on a fascinating journey into the science of memory. We explore why some moments stick while others fade, the pitfalls of multitasking, the power of learning from mistakes, and how gratitude can transform your emotional well-being. Tune in for actionable insights and science-backed strategies that will inspire you to rethink how you approach memory, focus, and thriving in everyday life.
Thrive Global Article:
Charan Ranganath on Why We Remember: The Memory Science Behind Productivity and Thriving
About Our Guest:
Dr. Charan Ranganath, a Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of California, Davis, has spent over 25 years uncovering the mysteries of memory. As the director of the Dynamic Memory Lab, he studies how our brains remember past events using advanced brain imaging techniques, computational modeling, and research with individuals who have memory disorders. His book, Why We Remember, provides a compelling look at how memory works and how it can enhance our well-being.
About Lainie:
Lainie Rowell is a bestselling author, award-winning educator, and TEDx speaker. She is dedicated to human flourishing, focusing on community building, social-emotional learning, 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
Twitter - @LainieRowell
Instagram - @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/bgbulkdiscount
Just fill out the forms linked above and someone will get back to you ASAP!

Feb 25, 2025 • 9min
#124 - We’re Not Supposed to Be [_____________] All the Time!
Somewhere along the way, we got the idea that we’re supposed to be happy all the time. Motivated all the time. Productive all the time. But here’s the thing—chasing those “always” expectations? It’s a one-way ticket to burnout and feeling like we’re never enough.In this episode, we’re flipping the script. Because emotions, energy, and focus naturally ebb and flow—and fighting that only makes life harder. I’ll break down why embracing the full spectrum of the human experience (yes, even the messy parts) is the key to actually thriving.Thrive Global Article: We’re Not Supposed to Be [_____________] All the Time!About Lainie:Lainie Rowell is a bestselling author, award-winning educator, and TEDx speaker. She is dedicated to human flourishing, focusing on community building, social-emotional learning, 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.comTwitter - @LainieRowell Instagram - @LainieRowellEvolving 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!

Feb 18, 2025 • 43min
#123 - Cassie Holmes on Happier Hour
Are you tired of feeling like there’s never enough time? In this episode, Dr. Cassie Holmes, award-winning teacher, happiness researcher, and bestselling author of Happier Hour, shares how to shift from feeling time-poor to time-rich. With actionable strategies and thought-provoking insights, she explores how spending time wisely can lead to greater joy and purpose. Tune in for a conversation that might just change how you view your most precious resource—time.Thrive Global Article: From Time-Poor to Time-Rich: Cassie Holmes on Crafting a Happier HourAbout Our Guest:Cassie Mogilner Holmes is a chaired professor at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management, an award-winning teacher and researcher on time and happiness, and bestselling author of Happier Hour: How to Beat Distraction, Expand Your Time, and Focus on What Matters Most.Cassie’s research examines such questions as how focusing on time (rather than money) increases happiness, how the meaning of happiness changes over the course of one’s lifetime, and how much happiness people enjoy from extraordinary versus ordinary experiences. Across these inquiries, her findings highlight the joy that stems from interpersonal connection and paying attention to the present moment.Thrive Global Article:From Time-Poor to Time-Rich: Cassie Holmes on Crafting a Happier HourAbout 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!

Feb 11, 2025 • 9min
#122 - The Art of Noticing: Finding Meaning in Everyday Moments
Ever feel like life is moving so fast that you’re missing the moments that actually matter? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re hitting pause—not to stop the chaos, but to shift how we see it. Because here’s the truth: meaning isn’t in some grand, life-changing event. It’s right in front of us, woven into the smallest, most ordinary moments—if we know how to notice them. Trust me, this shift is big. Once you see it, you can’t unsee it. Let’s dive in.
BTW—You can choose your adventure with this one—read the article, listen to the episode, or explore both.
And you can find the article on Thrive Global!
The Art of Noticing: Finding Meaning in Everyday Moments - Thrive Global
I 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, social-emotional learning, 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
Twitter - @LainieRowell
Instagram - @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/bgbulkdiscount
Just fill out the forms linked above and someone will get back to you ASAP!


