I’ve just been to see Metallica (again!) and it sparked a whole stream of reflections about why big concerts, sporting events and live shows feel so good for us. In this episode I unpack the science behind those moments - collective effervescence, neural synchrony, emotional contagion, awe, shared identity and nostalgia , and how they shape our memories, emotions and wellbeing.

I also share a few stories from the mosh pit and a Harry Enfield show, then invite you to reflect on how you can bring more of this energy, meaning and joy into your own life.

On this Walk and Talk, I share a reflection sparked by my recent conversation with Dr Corey Keyes. We explored the idea of languishing as a kind of emotional hunger - that gnawing sense of emptiness many people feel even when life looks fine on the outside.

We talk through why those small, nourishing habits matter, how our “mental vitamins” build readiness for the inevitable ups and downs, and why every step toward feeling more alive counts. A gentle reminder that we do not need to leap into flourishing, sometimes it starts with feeding the parts of us that feel hungry.

In this Walk and Talk, I dip into the fascinating world of affective forecasting - the way we predict our future feelings and how those predictions shape our choices. From holidays and hikes to dentist appointments and morning coffee, our brain is constantly making emotional predictions. Yet the science shows we are not always as accurate as we think.
As we explore the components of valence, specific emotions and intensity, I share how understanding these patterns can help us make wiser, more aligned decisions in daily life and in the bigger picture.