Why are we stuck chasing happiness? (Declan Edwards)

Note from the host, Brad Bialy: This conversation remains one of my favorite episodes of Take the Stage. This week, we're publishing a replay for the first time. If you've heard the episode before, it's an opportunity to slow down and rethink your own happiness. If you're new to the show, I promise this one is worth your time. 

In this episode of Take the Stage, Brad Bialy sits down with Declan Edwards to explore why happiness is a skill not a destination and how mastering human skills can lead to greater fulfillment, stronger relationships, and more meaningful success.

Declan Edwards is a happiness researcher, author, and the Founder of BU Happiness College, a global organization dedicated to teaching the science and skills of happiness. Through his work in positive psychology, Declan helps individuals and organizations build the human skills that drive wellbeing, performance, and long-term success.

• Happiness is a prerequisite for success, not a reward for it.
• Human skills will outlast technical skills in the age of AI.
• The emotions we bring to work ripple far beyond ourselves.
• Progress feels better when we learn to savor it.
• Connection is built through shared experiences, goals, and purpose.

• [00:00] – Why happiness always feels out of reach
• [02:08] – Winning the inner game first
• [04:15] – The rise of “work of the heart”
• [06:46] – Why meaningful work matters
• [09:57] – The surprising ripple effect of happiness
• [13:44] – Measuring energy-giving work
• [15:12] – Creating a personal “win wall”
• [17:31] – Why success never feels like enough
• [22:04] – Practical exercises for staying present
• [24:55] – Breaking free from phone-driven distractions
• [28:07] – Building connection in remote teams
• [33:06] – The future of happiness in a changing world

Brad Bialy is a trusted voice and highly sought-after speaker in the staffing and recruiting industry, known for helping firms grow through integrated marketing, sales, and recruiting strategies. With over 13 years at Haley Marketing and a proven track record guiding hundreds of firms, Brad brings deep expertise and a fresh, actionable perspective to every engagement. He’s the host of Take the Stage and InSights, two of the staffing industry’s leading podcasts with more than 225,000 downloads.

Take the Stage is presented by Haley Marketing. For a limited time, we're offer 50% off of a brand new staffing website. Just message Brad Bialy on LinkedIn and mention the Crazy Website Promo.