Dacher Keltner: The Science Behind Awe and Where to Find It

Dacher Keltner: The Science Behind Awe and Where to Find It

From Lessons From Our Mothers by Cressida and Isabella

May 17, 2026 · 40 min · Season 4 · Episode 2

About this episode

Dacher Keltner discusses the science of awe and its impact on wellbeing, inspired by personal experiences with his family.

🌸 Cressida and Isabella are joined by psychologist, author, and awe researcher Dacher Keltner, whose work explores the science of human emotion, connection, and the power of awe in everyday life. 🌸 Dacher shares how the loss of his younger brother inspired his exploration of awe, and reflects on what awe means to him personally. He opens up about the deep and meaningful relationship his mother fostered with his brother - something he later tried to emulate when raising his own children. Dasher also shares why emotions like compassion, gratitude, and awe are essential to our wellbeing, plus shares his top tips for bringing more awe into everyday life through nature, music, and human connection.   🌸 Join Cressida Bonas and Isabella Branson as they explore how maternal figures have shaped the lives of their guests. Each episode delves into the valuable lessons they’ve carried forward, those they’ve left behind, and the profound impact maternal figures have had throughout their lives. 🎙️An OG Podcasts production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

People in this episode

Hosts: Cressida Bonas, Isabella Branson

Guest: Dacher Keltner

Topics covered

  • awe
  • human emotion
  • parenting
  • wellbeing
  • nature
  • music
  • connection

Keywords

  • awe
  • psychology
  • human connection
  • parenting
  • wellbeing
  • nature
  • music
  • compassion
  • gratitude

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