At the core of Matthew Lee’s philosophy lies a profound understanding: human flourishing is not a privilege reserved for a select few, but a birthright that everyone deserves. His journey towards this realization began with a simple question: 

“Are we becoming more fully alive through education?” 

This question sparked a transformative shift in how he approached his work as a sociologist and educator.

Matthew’s journey led him to create innovative educational programs, such as “Unclasses,” where students meet in unconventional settings and engage in heart-centered learning experiences. These experiences, characterized by heart check-ins and open spaces for contemplation, have redefined the traditional classroom dynamic, fostering environments where students can thrive both academically and personally.

His influence transcends boundaries, reaching from bustling boardrooms to remote villages. His interdisciplinary approach, integrating quantitative social sciences with the deep wisdom of humanities, has led to groundbreaking research on human thriving. As a Research Associate at the Human Flourishing Program at Harvard University, Lee is at the forefront of one of the largest studies of its kind, exploring the intricate connections between love, care, and well-being.

Matthew’s impact extends far beyond the realm of education, though. Through initiatives like “Flourish at Work,” he collaborates with organizations to foster cultures of well-being and fulfillment in corporate settings. By integrating principles of positive psychology and mindfulness, he has catalyzed a paradigm shift, empowering employees to reach their full potential and create workplaces where everyone feels valued and engaged.

“Life’s one non-negotiable is to be loved, and to see our love make a difference.”

In addition to his research, Matthew is a Professor of the Social Sciences and Humanities at Baylor University, and a Distinguished Visiting Scholar of Health, Flourishing, and Positive Psychology at Stony Brook University. His leadership positions, courses taught, and papers published speak to his dedication to fostering well-being in our world.

Beneath the accolades and accomplishments lies a simple insight that grounds Matthew’s daily actions: “Every person is infinitely valuable.” This belief drives his commitment to creating a world where every individual has the opportunity to prosper, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Matthew Lee’s wisdom is not just confined to academic circles; it resonates with anyone seeking meaning and fulfillment in their lives. He reminds us that “life’s one non-negotiable is to be loved, and to see our love make a difference,” emphasizing the importance of understanding and compassion in our personal and professional endeavors.

In this episode, Matthew shares some wonderful strategies and quick quotes to help us on our own journeys to find peace of mind. We explore topics like:  

• The value of looking for “shining eyes” in others
• Strategies to thrive at work
• Seeing our “upset” as a wonderful “set up” for some next, better chapter
• How we grow into our best selves when we use an “I will live as if I…. “ mindset, rather than a “fake it till you make it” strategy
• How it changes everything when we realize and live as if every person is infinitely valuable
• How to measure if we are flourishing
• The rewards of seeing our love make a difference in others.

Matthew challenges us to consider how we can serve others without burning out, urging us to shift from extractive systems to ones rooted in regeneration and love. Matthew invites us to reimagine health as thriving, not merely the absence of disease, and to create open spaces in education for self-discovery and transformative growth.

In a world hungry for connection and purpose, Matthew Lee’s message shines brightly: “How can I serve?” Join us in celebrating his extraordinary dedication to fostering flourishing and well-being in our world.

• The Human Flourishing Program Website
• Ben Zander’s TED talk
• Matthew on Awakin Podcast
• Nipun Mehta’s CoG Episode #138
• Doug Barnard’s CoG Episode #182
• ServiceSpace Website

• 00:00 – Intro & Welcome
• 02:42 – Every Person is Infinitely Valuable
• 07:30 – The True Meaning of Flourishing
• 13:31 – Flourishing is a Dialogue
• 19:05 – How to Know if You’re Flourishing
• 23:33 – The Expression “Shining Eyes”
• 30:24 – Break
• 32:40 – A Story of Grace
• 38:16 – Change Contempt to Curiosity
• 41:33 – Your Upset Can Be Your Setup
• 49:53 – Flourishing at Work
• 01:03:25 – Closing