
Kamen works as a lifestyle management consultant who explores the art and science of happiness as a speaker, author, and positive psychology expert. Through her globally syndicated podcast, books, media appearances, and documentary film, Lisa has impacted millions of people around the world.
LISA CYPERS KAMEN
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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

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
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Follow Nicole Karlis:
— Offers longevity-focused skincare products designed to target skin health at the cellular level. Visit OneSkin.co and use promo code HHTR to get 15% off your order.
Are We Happy Yet? Eight Keys to Unlocking a Joyful Life — A boot camp manual for greater emotional fitness. Happiness waits for no one and sometimes we all need support. What is getting in the way of your happiness right now? Explore lifelong relationships as part of your journey to happiness.
H–Factor: Where is Your Heart? — Lisa’s documentary film explores the journey of human happiness. Emotions are contagious and happiness is a universally desired state. We tend to forget we all have the freedom to be happy or the liberty to be miserable each day. Our lifelong relationships have a big influence on this journey.
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Our communications do not constitute mental health treatment nor is it indicative of a private therapeutic relationship.
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