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Making the world smileFrom the earliest days, my mother observed that I was a natural-born smiler, a trait that has profoundly shaped my life's journey. This intrinsic inclination towards smiling and maintaining a positive outlook has been more than just a personal characteristic; it's been a guiding principle influencing my interactions, work, and overall philosophy.In my TED Talk, “The Hidden Power of Smiling,” I explored the profound impact that a simple smile can have—not only on our own well-being but also on those around us. Research indicates that smiling can have tremendous health, wellness, and longevity effects event beyond just helping us be simply happier!In addition to it's great personal benefits, smiling serves as a universal language, bridging cultural divides and fostering connections. It's a simple yet powerful tool that enhances communication, builds trust, and promotes a sense of community. I even believe that we need to teach our machines to smile, letting them in on emotional intelligence so they better understand us, and we understand them; a smile has the power to bridge not only cultures but also intelligence forms. Embracing positivity and the act of smiling has been central to my endeavors, reinforcing the belief that a positive demeanor can lead to meaningful change and enriched experiences.In essence, smiling and positivity are not just aspects of who I am; they are foundational elements that drive my commitment to fostering well-being, connection, and joy in every facet of life.
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The Hidden Power of Smiling — my TED TalkI've always believed that a simple smile can change everything — how we feel, how we connect, and how we move through the world. In my TED Talk, “The Hidden Power of Smiling,” I shared this lifelong intuition, backed by science — revealing how smiling can boost health, build trust, and even extend our lives.At one point one of the most viewed TED Talks of all time, the talk dives into the evolutionary magic and universal language of smiling. Or as TED put it:“Ron Gutman reviews a raft of studies about smiling and reveals some surprising results. Prepare to flex a few facial muscles as you learn more about this evolutionarily contagious behavior.”The talk went viral upon release, resonating across cultures and continents — ultimately being translated into 55 languages and watched by tens of millions around the world. It sparked a global conversation about the overlooked power of something so simple and so human: a smile.Now, over a decade later, I'm expanding on those ideas in a new upcoming book — exploring the science, stories, art, and surprising ripple effects of smiling in everyday life, leadership, health, technology, and human connection. This next chapter dives deeper into how a small gesture can lead to big change — for individuals, communities, and even entire systems.Stay tuned, I'm working on an updated version of the book as we speak - it's coming to a web page near you soooooon :)
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Leadership with smiling and positivitySmiling isn't just good for your health — it's good for your leadership. I had a fantastic conversation with the insightful Julie and Jimmy on the AugMentors Podcast, where we explored how positivity, empathy, and human connection can transform workplace culture, unlock performance, and help people thrive — not just survive — at work.
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Designing a life you love — and the habits to sustain itLiving well starts with doing what you love — but sustaining that energy takes clarity, intention, and structure. For me, it's not just about chasing purpose — it's about building the daily habits and systems that keep it alive.In these two Business Insider features, I share how I've applied the STOKE-STAGE-STACK framework to stay energized and focused 365 days a year, and how I took Steve Jobs' advice — “do what you love” — and turned it into a life and career I genuinely enjoy living.
Tech entrepreneur uses stoke stage stack framework run 365 days
Steve Jobs said do what you love entrepreneur took advice
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Landing a supportive smileIn a world that moves at hyperspeed, one of the most powerful things we can do is slow down — and fully be in the moment. In this talk for Stanford eCorner, I share a simple but transformative mindset: how practicing presence, gratitude, and perspective can help us stay positive, even in the face of pressure and change.It's not just about mindfulness — it's about training yourself to live fully, right now.… here is my recipe from Stanford eCorner
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Smiling through uncertainty — launching FestiHealthAt the onset of the pandemic, when fear and isolation were spreading as fast as the virus itself, I believed what we needed most was connection, support, and a reason to smile. That's why I launched FestiHealth — the first virtual health festival of its kind.This uplifting event brought together people from across the country to share resources, discover wellness tools, and remind each other that even in crisis, we can show up with optimism, care, and community.At a time when the world felt heavy with uncertainty, what we needed most was a spark of light — a reminder of what brings us together. FestiHealth became exactly that: a celebration of resilience, joy, and human connection in the face of global challenge.I reflected on that unforgettable experience in this piece — a tribute to how, even in isolation, we found ways to uplift, inspire, and celebrate life at its virtual best.
FestiHealth | Back to Work in the New Normal panel with Dr. David Rhew, Chief Medical Officer & VP of Healthcare of Microsoft and other delightful guests
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I'm into solving hairy audacious human challenges that have the potential to help people everywhere.
I build, run, and grow companies that move fast and create solutions geared toward saving lives.
My philanthropic endeavors are meant to help those in need to live healthier happier lives.
I'm a Stanford adjunct professor and enjoy writing and speaking about topics that really matter.
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