Rick Hanson

Rick Hanson, Ph.D., is a distinguished psychologist and a luminary in the domain of positive neuroplasticity. As a Senior Fellow at UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center, he has devoted his career to unraveling the intricacies of the human mind and fostering resilience through both scientific and contemplative traditions. A native of northern California, Hanson embarked on his meditation practice in 1974, a journey that has profoundly influenced his professional endeavors and personal philosophy. His insights have resonated globally, captivating audiences at esteemed institutions such as NASA, Google, Oxford, and Harvard. Hanson's oeuvre includes several acclaimed titles that have captivated readers worldwide, such as "Resilient: How to Grow an Unshakable Core of Calm, Strength, and Happiness" and "Hardwiring Happiness: The New Brain Science of Contentment, Calm, and Confidence." These works, translated into 33 languages, have cemented his status as a New York Times bestselling author. His seminal book, "Neurodharma: New Science, Ancient Wisdom, and Seven Practices of the Highest Happiness," deftly intertwines ancient wisdom with contemporary neuroscience, offering readers a profound blueprint for achieving lasting fulfillment. Alongside these, "Making Great Relationships: Simple Practices for Solving Conflicts, Building Connection, and Fostering Love" further showcases his commitment to enhancing human connectivity and understanding. Renowned for his compelling writing style, Hanson masterfully blends rigorous scientific inquiry with accessible, practical advice, rendering complex psychological concepts into actionable strategies for personal growth and happiness. His contributions extend beyond the written word, as he co-hosts the popular "Being Well" podcast and serves as a founder of both the Global Compassion Coalition and the Wellspring Institute for Neuroscience and Contemplative Wisdom. With over a million copies sold in English alone, his work has been featured by major media outlets like CBS, NPR, and the BBC, affirming his influence as a leading voice in the intersection of psychology and contemplative practice.