The Altruistic Brain: Architecture of Connection and Community Amid Chaos with Nicole Karlis

The Altruistic Brain: Architecture of Connection and Community Amid Chaos with Nicole Karlis

Research studies reveal there are neurological, emotional, and physical rewards to acts of altruism. We experience awe, most often, when we witness acts of human kindness, no matter how small. Volunteering offers a powerful antidote to modern societal chaos by redirecting focus toward a shared, positive purpose, thereby strengthening the bonds of community.

To explore the ways self-care can become other-care, Harvesting Happiness Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with Nicole Karlis, a member of the Association of Health Care Journalists and a senior writer at Salon covering health, science, and wellness.

Nicole explains the neuroscience of altruism and how we can create a ‘culture of caring’, which are central tenets in her book, YOUR BRAIN ON ALTRUISM: The Power of Connection and Community during Times of Crisis.

Original Air Date Wednesday, November 5, 2025

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Meet Our Guest:

Nicole Karlis is a senior writer at Salon covering health, science, and wellness with a critical and culturally aware lens. Her work has also appeared in The New York Times, Marie Claire, and The Bold Italic, exploring how societal narratives shape our understanding of mental and physical well-being.

A member of the Association of Health Care Journalists and the Writers Guild of America-East, Nicole brings journalistic integrity and depth to today’s most pressing health conversations. She lives in Vallejo, California.

Book:  YOUR BRAIN ON ALTRUISM: The Power of Connection and Community during Times of Crisis

Nicole Karlis—Altruism & Chaos in  Community:

  • The neuroscience of altruism. {4:18}
  • Creating a ‘culture of caring’ amidst the chaos. {8:06}
  • The Vibecession signals extreme consumer pessimism. {22:16}
  • One nation’s care system is drastically different from the US system. {16:07}
  • How to practice self-care that benefits the community. {22:10}

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Shareables:

“Anything we can do to alleviate stress and uplift others ends up helping the greater good.” @LisaKamen on @HHTalkRadio Share on X “There are mental health, emotional, and physical health benefits to giving to others.” @NicoleKarlis on @HHTalkRadio Share on X “People who volunteer later in life live longer and have fewer hospital visits.” @NicoleKarlis on @HHTalkRadio Share on X “Focusing on becoming more altruistic may not be good for someone who is already a full-time, unpaid caregiver.” @NicoleKarlis on @HHTalkRadio Share on X

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