Why Good Relationships Are the Key to Living a Long and Happy Life with Robert WaldingerWhy Good Relationships Are the Key to Living a Long and Happy Life with Robert Waldinger
The One You Feed
Eric Zimmer discusses with Dr. Robert Waldinger why good relationships are key to a long and happy life, drawing from an 85-year Harvard study.
1:00:20•19 Sept 2025
The Secret Ingredient to Happiness: Relationships
Episode Overview
- Deep connections are more important for health than wealth or status.
- Relationships help regulate stress and improve physical health.
- Loneliness can be as harmful as smoking in terms of health impact.
- Social fitness is crucial for maintaining and building relationships.
- Attention is a fundamental form of love in relationships.
“"Good relationships keep us healthier and happier, period."”
What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol? In this episode, Eric Zimmer chats with Dr. Robert Waldinger about the surprising secret to happiness and longevity—good relationships. Drawing from an impressive 85-year-long Harvard study, Waldinger reveals that deep connections can trump wealth, success, and status when it comes to predicting health and happiness. They explore how relationships can regulate stress, why loneliness might be as harmful as smoking, and how we can cultivate 'social fitness' to improve our well-being.
Waldinger, a Zen teacher, shares insights on how attention is a fundamental form of love and the importance of acknowledging both the good and bad within us. For those wondering where to invest their time and energy, this episode offers compelling evidence that nurturing relationships is the key. As listeners delve into the conversation, they'll discover practical ways to strengthen existing bonds and build new ones. So, are you feeding your good wolf today?
Tune in for wisdom on living a fulfilling life through meaningful connections.
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