Happiness through Creating
This podcast explores timeless principles of creation to help listeners find deeper happiness. It discusses how we shape abilities, relationships, ideas, and meaning while facing opposition that refines us. The host encourages listeners to become conscious, intentional creators in areas like relationships, career, and business, showing that opposition is essential for growth and joy.
Episodes
Episode 111: Reduced by Nothing - A Maya Angelou Reflection
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we reflect on Maya Angelou’s powerful idea that while we may not control what happens to us, we can choose not to be reduced by it. We explore the difference between experiencing hardship and allowing a painful event to become the definition of who we are, drawing on psychology and Angelou’s own remarkable life story. We consider how resilience and cr
Episode 110: Awareness - "All things are present before me"
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the power of present-moment awareness through the intersection of faith, psychology, and creativity. Drawing on scripture and the mindfulness research of Jon Kabat-Zinn, we examine how living in the past or future can multiply suffering, while presence allows us to see reality clearly without denying pain or ignoring the need for change. We
Music Monday: "Man in the Mirror" by Michael Jackson
In this Music Monday episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the enduring message of Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror” and its powerful invitation to start change with ourselves. Rather than pointing fingers at the world or waiting for someone else to act, the song asks us to look honestly at our own choices, take responsibility, and believe in our ability to create change. We explor
Episode 109: From Surviving to Thriving
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the difference between simply surviving life and truly thriving in it. Drawing on research from Corey Keyes and Ann Masten, we unpack how purpose, connection, growth, and “ordinary magic” can help us move from feeling flat and stuck toward greater vitality. We also identify how small, ordinary acts of creation can become the first step towa
Episode 108: Malala Yousafzai: The Pen That Would Not Be Silenced
On this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the extraordinary story of Malala Yousafzai, whose determination to learn and speak out transformed her from a young girl in Pakistan’s Swat Valley into a global advocate for girls’ education. We look at what happened when the Taliban tried to silence her, and how Malala chose to keep creating, speaking, and building something bigger from w
Music Monday: "Beautiful Things" by Benson Boone
On this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore Benson Boone’s “Beautiful Things” and the surprising fear that can appear when life is finally going well. We unpack loss aversion, gratitude, and why our brains can turn the possibility of losing what we love into a source of anxiety. We discover how we can stop gripping the beautiful things in our lives and instead hold them with gratitud
Episode 107: What do you want to be?
In this episode, we explore the timeless story of young John Lennon answering the question, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" with one simple word: "Happy."Together, we examine why we often define our lives by what we do instead of who we become, and how lasting happiness is created through meaning, growth, and character rather than achievement alone. We discover that
Episode 106: The Gems of a Creator
In this episode, we explore the idea that the greatest treasures of life are often the experiences, relationships, lessons, and moments that become the gems of our personal stories. Like gemstones formed under pressure and refined through time, our most meaningful experiences are often shaped by challenges, growth, and the process of becoming. We learn to become “gem hunters” by slowing down, savo
Music Monday: "Leaving on a Jet Plane" by John Denver
In this Music Monday episode, we explore the timeless song Leaving on a Jet Plane and discover how life's goodbyes can teach us to live with greater purpose and intention. Together, we reflect on how change, relationships, regret, and commitment shape our happiness and remind us to focus on what matters most. We also consider how every transition is an opportunity to express gratitude, strengt
Episode 105: Quality vs Quantity
In this episode, we explore how the greatest creations in life are built through the balance of quality and quantity, where intentional effort and consistent repetition work together. We discover that excellence is not created through occasional moments of greatness, but through meaningful actions repeated over time with purpose and care. By applying this principle to relationships, creativity, pe
Episode 104: Quality of Our Thoughts
In this episode, we explore how the quality of our thoughts shapes the quality of our lives. Together, we examine insights from Marcus Aurelius, William James, and modern neuroscience to discover how our minds influence what we notice, the stories we tell ourselves, and the person we are becoming. We learn that while we can't always control our circumstances, we can choose the thoughts and per
Music Monday: "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey
This Music Monday, we explore Journey's iconic anthem "Don't Stop Believin'" through the lens of the Creator's Mindset, discovering how every one of us is invited to move from consuming life to intentionally creating it. Together, we reflect on themes of purpose, opposition, courage, and growth, finding inspiration in the song's timeless message of hope and possibilit
Episode 103: Pioneering
In today's episode, we explore how pioneering helps us be creators. The principles we can identify from the pioneers help us to continue that legacy in our own lives. We discover that happiness is found through the act of creating and that pioneers are great creators!Find me here:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancbarlow
Episode 102: Trust the Process
In this episode, we explore how meaningful growth, happiness, and creation require patience and a willingness to trust the process rather than chase immediate results. We discover that lasting success is built through consistent habits, daily effort, and the often unseen work of developing character, skills, and resilience over time. By focusing on the journey instead of only the destination, we l
Music Monday: "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina & The Waves
In this Music Monday episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore how Katrina and the Waves' "Walking on Sunshine" is more than a joyful anthem—it's an invitation to choose our emotional direction before circumstances fully change. Together, we examine how creators move beyond waiting, using attention, intention, and mindset to shape the way they experience life. We reflect
Episode 101: The Power of Oscillation in the Rhythm of Creation
In this episode, we explore how the natural rhythm of oscillation—cycles of effort and recovery, challenge and renewal, and progress and reflection—is essential to both creation and lasting happiness. We discover that setbacks, rest, and ordinary routines are not interruptions to growth but vital parts of the process that build strength, resilience, and momentum. By embracing life's rhythms in
Episode 100: The Power of RE
In this episode, we explore how the simple prefix "re" reminds us that hope, growth, and creation often begin after life's greatest challenges. We reflect on how recovery, renewal, restoration, redemption, and other "re" words reveal that setbacks are not the end of our story but opportunities to rebuild, reconnect, and continue creating. By embracing a growth mindset and r
Music Monday: "I Gotta Feeling" by Black Eyed Peas
In this Music Monday episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore how the Black Eyed Peas' "I Gotta Feeling"is more than a party anthem—it's a powerful reminder that possibility begins before proof. Together, we examine how our expectations shape our experiences and why creators choose belief, energy, and intention before the outcome is certain. We reflect on the idea that t
Episode 99: Simpatico
In this episode, we explore how creating simpatico—a spirit of mutual understanding, empathy, and goodwill—can strengthen our relationships and bring greater happiness in a divided world. We reflect on how meaningful connection grows not through agreement, but through curiosity, authentic listening, humility, and a genuine desire to understand one another. By choosing presence over distraction and
Episode 98: The Hobby Bridge
In this episode, we explore how hobbies can become powerful bridges that help us navigate life's transitions by providing purpose, growth, and opportunities to create something new. We reflect on how engaging in meaningful activities expands our identity beyond our circumstances, restores a sense of agency during uncertainty, and reminds us that we are creators in every season of life. Through
Music Monday: "The Simple Things" by Michael Carreon
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore The Simple Things by Michael Carreon and the powerful truth that the most meaningful parts of life are often the easiest to overlook. Together, we examine how love, trust, character, and happiness are built not through grand gestures, but through small moments of attention, care, and consistency repeated over time. We discuss why the simple
Episode 97: Declaration of Independence
In this special episode, we reflect on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and explore it not only as a historical document, but as a profound act of human creation—one where ordinary people declared a future that did not yet exist and committed themselves to building it despite uncertainty and opposition. We connect this idea to the central theme of Happiness Through Creating
Episode 96: Character is the Root
In this episode, we explore how character is the foundation of everything we create and how the process of creating ultimately shapes who we become. We reflect on how pressure, opposition, and life's challenges reveal our true character and provide opportunities for growth, refinement, and greater alignment with our values. Through the teachings and example of Jesus Christ, we consider how las
Music Monday: "Beautiful Day" by U2
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore Beautiful Day by U2 and the powerful idea that beauty is not the absence of difficulty, but the ability to see possibility in the middle of it. Together, we examine how creators learn to grow through stony ground, find meaning in seasons of uncertainty, and recognize the colors that often appear only after the flood. We discuss the differen
Episode 95: Comparison Kills Creativity
In this episode, we explore how comparison can quietly undermine creativity by shifting our focus from creating and contributing to evaluating ourselves against others. We discuss how comparison fuels fear, self-doubt, and insecurity, often causing us to abandon ideas and opportunities before they have a chance to grow. We examine the importance of recognizing our unique gifts, experiences, and pu
Episode 94: Rituals
In this episode, we explore how rituals are intentional, repeated actions that shape our identity, happiness, and overall life experience. We discuss how rituals influence our mind, spirit, and body, gradually transforming our actions into habits and our habits into who we become. We examine how creators intentionally design their internal environment through consistent practices, replacing uncons
Music Monday: "Here Comes the Sun" by The Beatles
Winter can make us believe that growth has stopped, but "Here Comes the Sun" reminds us that some of life's most important transformations happen beneath the surface. In this Music Monday episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore how seasons of difficulty, waiting, and uncertainty often prepare us for renewal, growth, and new possibilities. Together, we examine the power of h
Episode 93: Marriage
In this episode, we explore marriage as one of the most powerful forms of co-creation, where two people continually build a shared life through love, commitment, and the transformation of opposition into unity. We discuss how real marital strength is not found in the absence of conflict, but in the ongoing process of repairing, recommitting, and choosing each other again through life’s challenges.
Episode 92: Transendence
In this episode, we explore transcendence—the process of rising beyond fear, ego, and limitation to become more fully ourselves. We discuss how some of life’s most meaningful experiences, from creation and service to awe and deep connection, help us move beyond self-focus and into greater purpose, meaning, and fulfillment. We also examine how both flow and suffering can become pathways to transcen
Music Monday: "Lovely Day" by Bill Withers
What turns a difficult day into a lovely one? In this Music Monday episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore Bill Withers' timeless song Lovely Day and the powerful role relationships play in helping us face life's challenges. Together, we examine how encouragement, connection, and love become some of the most valuable resources available to creators, often giving us strength when
Episode 91: Simplicity on the Other Side of Complexity
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the powerful idea that there are two kinds of simplicity: the simplicity before complexity and the simplicity beyond it. Together, we examine how growth, wisdom, and creation often require us to move through confusion, struggle, and uncertainty before arriving at true clarity. We discuss why happiness is not found in avoiding life's com
Episode 90: Alcoholics Anonymous
What can the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous teach us about creation, healing, and happiness? In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore how two struggling men transformed their suffering into one of the most influential recovery movements in history, and what their story reveals about the power of honesty, service, and human connection. Together, we examine why healing often begin
Music Monday: "Best Day of My Life" by American Authors
What if the best day of our lives doesn't begin when it happens, but when we first choose to believe it's possible? In this Music Monday episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore how dreams, imagination, and expectation help shape the future long before results appear. Together, we examine why creators learn to dance with their fears, embrace the Insight Loop, and build meaningful
Episode 89: Motion
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the idea that everything in existence is in constant motion—and what that reveals about happiness, growth, and the creative process. Using the movement of the Earth, the solar system, and the galaxy as powerful metaphors, the episode examines how life itself is built on cycles, tension, instability, and continuous change. We reflect on how
Episode 88: The Transformative Power of Service and Sacrifice
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we reflect on the transformative power of service and sacrifice through the deeply personal story of a daughter beginning missionary service in Taiwan. Using the example of Italia Ruth’s decision to dedicate eighteen months to serving others, the episode explores how giving our time, energy, and love can profoundly shape both the lives of others and o
Music Monday: "Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me" by Elton John
Sometimes we all experience seasons when the light feels a little dimmer, when we struggle to recognize ourselves, or when we fear losing the connections that matter most. In those moments, we often find ourselves searching for hope, meaning, and a way forward through the darkness. Today, we'll explore the timeless song "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" and discover what it teach
Episode 87: Peacemakers
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the transformative power of becoming a peacemaker and why creating peace is one of the most meaningful forms of creation. The episode challenges the common idea that peace is simply the absence of conflict, showing instead that true peace requires courage, intention, and the willingness to step into tension with a creative mindset. Through
Episode 86: The Golden Gate Bridge
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the story of the Golden Gate Bridge and what it teaches us about happiness, resistance, and human potential. More than just an engineering achievement, the bridge becomes a symbol of courage, creativity, and the willingness to pursue what others once believed was impossible. We reflect on how the bridge was built during the Great Depression
Music Monday: "I Won't Give Up" by Jason Mraz
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore how real love and meaningful connection require courage, patience, and the willingness to stay through life’s difficult seasons. Inspired by Jason Mraz’s song "I Won't Give Up," we reflect on the idea that relationships, dreams, and personal growth are all creative acts shaped by resilience and trust. Together, we discuss how
Episode 85: Not All Matters are of Equal Value
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore a simple but transformative idea: not all matters are of equal value. Through psychology, philosophy, and practical reflection, the episode examines how modern life constantly pulls our attention toward distractions, urgency, and low-value concerns that quietly drain our energy and peace. We discuss concepts like salience bias and value-bas
Episode 84: Amelia Earhart
n this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the extraordinary life of Amelia Earhart and what her journey reveals about courage, creativity, and lasting happiness. Timed with the anniversary of her historic solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean, the episode examines how Earhart didn’t just break aviation records—she created new possibilities for generations of women and dreamers. Thro
Music Monday: "On Top of The World" by Imagine Dragons
This Music Monday episode explores On Top of the World by Imagine Dragons as more than a celebration of success—it’s a reflection on the journey required to earn it. Framed through themes of growth, persistence, and identity, the episode highlights how the song captures the emotional payoff of years of effort, setbacks, and “paying dues.” Rather than focusing on arrival, it emphasizes becoming—sho
Episode 83: McDonald's
In this episode of HAPPINESS THROUGH CREATING, we explore the surprising connection between McDonald’s and the pursuit of happiness on the company’s 85th anniversary. Beginning with the humble barbecue stand opened by Dick and Mac McDonald in 1940, the episode reveals how ordinary people can create extraordinary impact through vision, service, and perseverance. We examine the brothers’ bold decisi
Episode 82: The Night and The Morning
This episode of Happiness Through Creating explores the idea that joy and sorrow are not opposites to be separated, but interconnected forces that give each other meaning. Anchored in Psalm 30—“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning”—the episode reframes suffering not as something to escape, but as part of a larger rhythm of human experience. Drawing on philosophy, psycholog
Music Monday: "Higher Ground" by Stevie Wonder
This Music Monday episode uses Stevie Wonder’s Higher Ground as a lens to explore growth, resilience, and the science of human flourishing. The song’s central message—that life is a continuous climb of learning, trying, and evolving—is connected to research in positive psychology showing that happiness is closely tied to engagement, meaning, and personal growth. Through its lyrics, the episode hig
Episode 81: Michael Landon
This episode of Happiness Through Creating explores the idea that words are not passive descriptions of reality, but active forces that shape it. From internal self-talk to cultural language, the words we use frame how we interpret our experiences and ultimately determine how we feel and behave. Drawing on concepts like linguistic relativity, psychological scripting, and meaning-making, the episod
Episode 80: Words Create Worlds
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the idea that words are not just tools for describing reality—they are forces that actively shape it. The language we use, both internally and externally, influences how we interpret experiences, form beliefs, and ultimately construct the world we live in. From the stories we tell ourselves to the phrases we repeat daily, our words graduall
Music Monday: "Abide With Me" by Henry Francis Lyte
This Music Monday episode reflects on the hymn "Abide with Me" as a doorway into the quiet yet powerful principle of presence. Through memories of the host’s mother—especially singing in a full, lively home—the episode explores how abiding is not about fixing or performing, but about staying. The hymn itself, written by Henry Francis Lyte in the final stage of his life, becomes a lens fo
Episode 79: Norman Mineta
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the life of Norman Mineta and how profound injustice during World War II shaped—not defined—his lifelong commitment to meaning, service, and contribution. As a ten-year-old, Mineta was forcibly removed from his home and sent to an internment camp following Executive Order 9066, an experience that could have led to bitterness or withdrawal.
Episode 78: The Zipper
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the story of Gideon Sundback, the engineer who refined and perfected the modern zipper in 1913 after years of failure, grief, and relentless iteration.What begins as a simple invention story becomes a deeper reflection on persistence, identity, and the nature of meaningful creation. Sundback’s journey reminds us that creation is rarely imme
Music Monday: "The River" by Garth Brooks
On this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore “The River” by Garth Brooks as a powerful metaphor for the journey of becoming. The song reframes dreams not as destinations, but as something we move with—like a river that is constantly changing. It highlights the reality that growth involves uncertainty, opposition, and daily decisions to stay engaged, rather than waiting on the shorelin
Episode 77: Easter Rising
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the Easter Rising of April 1916 in Dublin as a powerful metaphor for what it means to live as a creator rooted in truth. Rather than focusing on the historical outcome of failure or success, we look deeper at the character of the individuals who participated—poets, teachers, laborers, and revolutionaries whose identity and purpose were so d
Episode 76: Anxiety Epidemic and the Creator's Antidote
On this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the rising rates of anxiety and depression in modern life—and what we can do to meaningfully respond.Drawing on research from Martin Seligman and the field of positive psychology, as well as findings on engagement and flow from Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, the episode highlights a central truth: well-being is not only about reducing distress, b
Music Monday: "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
On this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell as more than just a love song—it becomes a declaration of commitment, purpose, and resilience. At its core is a vow: a decision to show up and keep going no matter the obstacles. Rather than denying the existence of mountains, valleys, and rivers, the song reframes them as cha
Episode 75: Lou Holtz - Trust, Commitment, Love
On this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we reflect on the legacy of Lou Holtz through the three words chosen by his players—Trust, Commitment, and Love. Rather than focusing on achievements, the episode highlights how true impact is built through character and daily choices. Trust comes from consistently doing what’s right, commitment from giving your best regardless of recognition, and lov
Episode 74: Leonardo Da Vinci
On this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the life of Leonardo da Vinci—not as an untouchable genius, but as a model of relentless curiosity and lifelong becoming.Rather than focusing only on his famous works like the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, we uncover the deeper pattern that defined his life: he never stopped asking questions, never waited for permission, and never confined
Music Monday: "Transformer Man" by Neil Young
On this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore “Transformer Man” by Neil Young as a deeply personal story of creation driven by love. What was once criticized as a strange artistic departure is revealed to be something far more meaningful—a father’s effort to connect with his son through technology and sound. The episode reframes creativity as an act of devotion, showing how real creati
Episode 73: The Titanic
On this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we reflect on the departure of the RMS Titanic as a lens for understanding the gap between our intentions and real-life outcomes. Rather than focusing on the tragedy, the episode explores how even the most carefully planned creations are shaped by uncertainty. It highlights how meaningful work is built through consistent effort over time, and how iden
Episode 72: Brandon Sanderson Quotes
On this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore a powerful idea from Brandon Sanderson: that the most important thing created in any creative act isn’t the final product—it’s the person doing the creating. The episode highlights how true fulfillment comes not from outcomes, but from deep engagement in meaningful work. The “art” we produce becomes evidence of the real transformation happe
Music Monday: "Grateful" by Rita Ora
On this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore “Grateful” by Rita Ora and the powerful idea that gratitude can emerge not just after hardship—but because of it. The song traces a journey through pain, loss, and doubt, ultimately arriving at a place of deep appreciation for the very experiences that once felt breaking. Rather than avoiding or minimizing struggle, the episode highlights h
Episode 71: Pony Express
On this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the story of the Pony Express as a powerful example of creation in the face of intense opposition. What seemed impossible—delivering mail across nearly 2,000 miles in just ten days—was achieved through courage, commitment, and a willingness to act despite uncertainty. The episode highlights how meaningful creation is often born in difficult
Episode 70: Pompeii
On this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore what the ancient city of Pompeii reveals about living and creating with intention. Preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii offers a rare glimpse into ordinary life—bread in ovens, graffiti on walls, conversations frozen in time. The episode highlights how it’s not grand achievements but everyday acts of creation—working, buildi
Music Monday: "Both Sides Now" by Joni Mitchell
This Music Monday episode reflects on “Both Sides Now” by Joni Mitchell as a meditation on uncertainty, growth, and the creator’s journey. The song’s central idea—that even after seeing life, love, and experiences from multiple perspectives, “you still don’t know it at all”—is reframed not as failure, but as wisdom. It highlights the value of curiosity and a growth mindset, showing that fulfillmen
Episode 69: Sonnet 107
This episode draws on Sonnet 107 by William Shakespeare to explore how fear—both internal and external—can act like “augurs,” predicting failure and holding us back from creating. The poem’s message is reframed as a powerful reminder that these predictions are often wrong. Just as eclipses pass, periods of darkness, doubt, and opposition are temporary, not defining. The episode emphasizes that cre
Episode 68: Spirals
This episode explores the powerful metaphor of spirals to explain how growth, creation, and momentum actually work in our lives. Rather than moving in straight lines, real progress follows a spiral pattern—revisiting familiar challenges but at higher (or lower) levels depending on direction. The creation cycle itself is framed as a spiral, where character drives action, action builds momentum, and
Music Monday: "Girl on Fire" by Alicia Keys
This Music Monday episode uses “Girl On Fire” by Alicia Keys as a metaphor for the inner fire that drives meaningful creation. The song’s imagery of someone moving through loneliness and chaos while still burning brightly illustrates a core truth: that purpose, identity, and action aligned together create a powerful, sustaining force. This “fire” isn’t given by the world—it’s discovered within, of
Episode 67: International Happiness Day
March 20 is International Day of Happiness, a day created by the United Nations to recognize that happiness isn’t a luxury—it’s a fundamental human goal.In this special episode of Happiness Through Creating, I share the deeper reason behind the podcast: the belief that lasting happiness is discovered through the act of creation.Happiness spreads when it’s created together. And every act of intenti
Episode 66: Tererai Trent
What happens when a young girl writes her dreams on a scrap of paper, seals them in a tin can, and buries them under a rock?In this Podcasthon special episode of Happiness Through Creating, we share the remarkable story of Tererai Trent—a woman who defied cultural expectations, earned multiple degrees across three continents, and went on to build a nonprofit transforming education in rural Zimbabw
Music Monday: "No Man's Land" by John Michael Montgomery
What happens when life falls apart and the future hasn’t arrived yet?In this Music Monday episode of Happiness Through Creating, Brian Barlow explores the powerful song No Man's Land recorded by John Michael Montgomery and written by Bob Seger.The song tells the story of a single mother raising three children after the collapse of a relationship—living in the difficult in-between space the son
Episode 65: Sabbath Mindset
Why is it so hard for us to rest?In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, we explore the philosophy and spirituality of the Sabbath—the ancient idea that rest is not the opposite of creation, but an essential part of it.Drawing on insights from thinkers like Abraham Joshua Heschel, Aristotle, Josef Pieper, and Augustine of Hippo, we explore why true leisure is foundational to culture, creati
Episode 64: James Naismith
In this episode of Happiness Through Creating, host Brian Barlow tells the remarkable story of James Naismith and what his life teaches us about creativity, constraints, and letting go of our creations.In 1891, faced with bored students, a cold gymnasium, and just two weeks to solve a problem, Naismith invented basketball using little more than a soccer ball, thirteen simple rules, and two peach b
Music Monday: "Something Just Like This" by The Chainsmokers and Coldplay
In this Music Monday episode of Happiness Through Creating, we take a thoughtful look at the song “Something Just Like This” by The Chainsmokers and Coldplay.The song begins by comparing the narrator to legendary heroes—figures like Achilles, Hercules, Spider-Man, Batman, and Superman. Faced with these myths, he admits something many of us quietly feel: “I don’t see myself upon that list.”But the
Episode 63: Remember the Alamo! Remember the Aspirin!
In this thought-provoking episode of Happiness Through Creating, we reflect on two events that share the same date—March 6th—but represent very different human experiences. The fall of the Alamo in 1836 reminds us of courage, sacrifice, and the reality that meaningful efforts do not always produce immediate success. The patenting of aspirin in 1899 represents ingenuity, relief, and the quiet power
Episode 62: Building the Roman Coloseum
In this reflective episode of Happiness Through Creating, we step inside the enduring arches of the Roman Colosseum—not just as tourists, but as thoughtful observers of history, leadership, and human intention. Tracing its origins from Emperor Vespasian’s decision to return land to the people, through centuries of spectacle, suffering, ruin, reinterpretation, and preservation, we explore how one s
Music Monday: "Count on Me" by Bruno Mars
In this uplifting Music Monday episode of Happiness Through Creating, host Brian Barlow explores the timeless joy and emotional depth behind the song “Count on Me.” What sounds like a simple, feel-good anthem about friendship becomes, in Brian’s hands, a powerful blueprint for building real happiness through connection.Walking line by line through the lyrics, Brian reveals how the song captures on
Episode 61: The Wrecker by Edgar A Guest
In this episode, we reflect on Edgar A. Guest’s poem The Wrecker and consider what it teaches us about effort, agency, and happiness. We explore the tension between building and tearing down, recognizing that destruction is often easier—but creation requires care, skill, and patience. We examine how true happiness grows when we choose engagement over commentary and contribution over criticism. We
Episode 60: Shirley Chisholm
In this episode, we explore the life of Shirley Chisholm as a powerful example of what it means to live as creators in the face of opposition. We reflect on how her identity as “unbought and unbossed” shows us that happiness comes from alignment, not approval. We consider how she chose her character deliberately, refused limiting labels, and turned resistance into refinement. We examine how meanin
Music Monday: "Pocket Full of Sunshine" by Natasha Bedingfield
In this episode, we slow down with Natasha Bedingfield’s Pocketful of Sunshine and explore how it reflects the creator’s journey toward resilient, self-authored happiness. Together, we examine the idea that happiness is not a condition we wait for, but a resource we intentionally cultivate and carry within us. We reflect on how opposition, criticism, and pressure are part of the creative process—a
Episode 59: The Golden Mean - Hedonic vs Eudamonic
In this episode, we explore the difference between hedonic happiness—pleasure and comfort in the present moment—and eudaimonic happiness—meaning, purpose, and long-term fulfillment. Together, we reflect on how both forms of happiness are essential, yet incomplete on their own. Drawing on Aristotle’s Golden Mean, we consider how true flourishing comes from balancing pleasure with purpose, action wi
Episode 58: Irena Sendler
In this episode, we explore how Irena Sendler’s life reveals that happiness and meaning can emerge even in the darkest circumstances. Together, we reflect on how her courage and creativity during the Holocaust show that fulfillment is rooted not in comfort, but in alignment with our deepest values. We consider how her actions—saving 2,500 children through ingenuity, resilience, and moral convictio
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