Videos
Learn More About Elizabeth Dunn
Dr. Elizabeth Dunn is a professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of British Columbia. She conducts experimental research examining how time, money, and technology shape human happiness. Dunn is the co-author of “Happy Money: The Science of Happier Spending” (Simon & Schuster) with Dr. Michael Norton.
Her TED talk on generosity and joy, which has more than 4 million views, was named a 2019 Curator’s Pick, and she has given popular talks at PopTech! and TEDx. Additionally, her work has appeared in top journals, with three papers published in Science. Her book, “Happy Money: The Science of Happier Spending” was selected by the Washington Post as one of the top books leaders should read. Her research has been featured in hundreds of media outlets around the world, including The New York Times, The Globe and Mail, The London Times, The Atlantic, Time, and CNN.
Elizabeth Dunn is available to advise your organization via virtual and in-person consulting meetings, interactive workshops and customized keynotes through the exclusive representation of Stern Speakers & Advisors, a division of Stern Strategy Group®.
How to Buy Happiness
The common saying is that money can’t buy happiness. But what if, spent well, it could? In this enlightening talk, Dr. Elizabeth Dunn, a leading expert on how spending habits impact happiness and co-author of “Happy Money,” outlines five principles that show how to get more happiness from your money. For example, her research shows that “buying time” is an underutilized strategy for increasing happiness. Dunn’s work includes strategies for individuals and organizations to put this idea into practice immediately. Audiences will learn that splurging on the luxury car won’t necessarily make you happier than going with a more economic model. She’ll show attendees that right now, you can spend as little as $5 for a happiness boost.
Insights From the “Happy Lab”
There is a science behind happiness, and researchers are working hard on revealing it. In this fascinating presentation, Dr. Elizabeth Dunn, one of the world’s leading happiness experts, will share insights from her “Happy Lab.” With the latest research from labs around the world, Dunn will empower audiences with strategies to boost well-being in business, at home, and within yourself.
Is Technology Making Us Less Happy?
In a time when we’re all constantly connected through technology, many feel like they can’t live without smart phones and connected accessories. But is our technology actually making us happier? In this eye-opening presentation, Dr. Elizabeth Dunn, a leading researcher in how time, money, and technology shape human happiness, will explain the hidden costs technology has for our well-being. With the latest insights from her “Happy Lab,” Dunn will share techniques for boosting our happiness and well-being without having to depend on our tech devices.

A Systematic Review of the Strength of Evidence for the Most Commonly Recommended Happiness Strategies in Mainstream Media
(Nature Human Behaviour, July 2023)
The Science of Social Connection
After years of social distancing and remote work, many people are emerging from the pandemic with a hunger for social connection. This interactive workshop with Dr. Elizabeth Dunn will provide participants with a science-based toolkit for establishing a genuine sense of connection—in person or remotely. After learning about the science behind several techniques for building connection, attendees will get to practice these techniques, one-on-one and in small groups, allowing them to genuinely connect with several of their fellow participants. Attendees will leave the workshop with a warm sense of connection to one another—and the tools to help spread a sense of belonging across their own workplaces, neighborhoods, and communities.
The Joy of Climate Change
In this highly interactive workshop, Dr. Elizabeth Dunn will help attendees identify specific, feasible changes they can make in their own lives to effectively address climate change—while increasing their individual happiness. Although discussions of climate change often generate anxiety or guilt, this upbeat session will highlight how re-thinking the way we approach food, work, and travel can enhance well-being. After getting some shared knowledge on the table, Dr. Dunn will invite attendees to work in small teams, serving as one another’s “carbon consultants,” to identify the most feasible, impactful, and emotionally rewarding changes each individual can make to support sustainability.