logo
episode-header-image
Dec 2024
46m 27s

The Secret to Gift-Giving

Hidden Brain, Shankar Vedantam
About this episode
With the holidays fast approaching, many of us are hunting for that special something for the special someones in our lives. So why is it so hard to find the right gift? This week, we revisit a favorite 2022 conversation with researcher Jeff Galak. We'll discuss why the presents we give for holidays and birthdays often miss their mark, and how to become a be ... Show More
Up next
Yesterday
The Cowboy Philosopher
In 2009, an old man died in a California nursing home. His obituary included not just his given name, but a long list of the pseudonyms he’d been known to use. In this classic 2019 episode, we trace the life of Riley Shepard, a hillbilly musician, writer, small-time con man and, ... Show More
1h 29m
May 4
Radical Acceptance
Last week, we looked at the hidden beliefs that can leave us feeling stuck in life. This week, in the second part of our conversation with behavioral scientist Dave Evans, we talk about radical acceptance. Dave shares why accepting reality as it is can be so difficult — and why i ... Show More
1h 30m
Apr 27
Designing a Life that Matters
We tell ourselves that meaning comes from impact, passion, or finding the “one right path.” But these beliefs can leave us feeling stuck — even when our lives look perfectly fine on paper. Behavioral scientist Dave Evans describes a new approach, borrowed from design thinking, to ... Show More
51m 6s
Recommended Episodes
Dec 2024
#76 Getting a gift (Med)
Learn how to talk about getting a gift for someone. Plus, find out what the Secret Santa tradition is all about. 
11m 55s
Dec 2024
#76 Getting a gift (Med) - د انګلیسي ژبې زده کړه: ډالۍ (تحفه) ترلاسه کول
Learn how to talk about getting a gift for someone. Plus, find out what the Secret Santa tradition is all about. - د انګلیسي ژبې په دغه پوډکاسټ کې د سترګو د ډالۍ ترلاسه کولو په اړه خبرې کول زده کړئ. 
12m 42s
Dec 2024
Give great gifts
Searching for the perfect gift for a loved one doesn't have to be stressful. With some clever thinking, buying a present can be even more fun than receiving one. 'SELF magazine' editor-in-chief Rachel Wilkerson Miller shares her best tips for the holidays, birthdays or any other ... Show More
16m 54s
Dec 2024
ATG 206: 10 Game-Changing Gifts That Will Wow Everyone on Your List
<p>I love a good list, especially when it’s packed with amazing gift ideas. This year, I’m sharing 10 of our family’s favorite finds from 2024—things we’ve bought, loved, and can’t stop talking about. From a tiny acorn-growing vase to the Finish Journal I helped design, these are ... Show More
19m 42s
Dec 2024
Overcoming Gift Giving Overwhelm
Gift giving analysis paralysis is a real thing, and this week, Kat is talking about why the season of giving can be so stressful sometimes. Then, she shares a special mental health minded gift guide to help promote simple gift ideas that anyone can benefit and find joy from!   Ka ... Show More
31m 32s
Dec 2021
Gifts From the Heart
Save your money and give your partner a gift from the heart. On this episode of Small Things Often, learn how to bring them joy with simple gestures that’ll show how much you care. 
3m 53s
Dec 2021
224: Today is a Gift, That's Why It’s Called "The Present"
We're wrapping this season up with an episode all about gifts and presents! Remember Tickle Me Elmo, Razor scooters, and the Talk Boy? Then take a walk down memory lane with Colin's hottest toy challenge. Learn about a present you should never give yourself from the hardware stor ... Show More
1h 5m
Mar 2023
S13 Ep11: Threads of Gifts
Read along in Restless - Chapter 12 Today we are talking about your gifts—the things God has given you to make Him known in the world. If you are a follower of Christ, you have unique gifts. Listen as Jennie shares how to discover your giftings, how to use your gifts, and how to ... Show More
21m 28s
Oct 2024
119. Early Discounts – The Gift that Keeps on Giving
<p>The holiday season is fast approaching and with it comes the annual scramble for gifts. This year, it looks like we are not quite as generous as we used to be – half of us are expecting to buy fewer goods and services and 95% of us will be looking for the best deals. This mean ... Show More
19m 45s
Nov 2021
#234 - 10 Rules for Holiday Gift Giving
You might be done with your holiday shopping already or maybe you haven’t started. Either way, these rules can still add some lightness and help to the next couple of months. Helpful Companion Links Looking for gift inspiration? Check out Team LG’s Holiday Gift Guide for 2021! ... Show More
23m 58s