Dr Corey Keyes is a sociologist and psychologist best known for developing the dual continuum model of mental health and for coining the term languishing, a word that gave language to the emptiness so many felt during the pandemic. His new book, Languishing: How to Feel Alive Again in a World That Wears Us Down, offers both research and reflection on how we move from surviving to thriving, not just individually, but collectively. Megan has been following Corey's work since early in her career and felt incredibly honoured to sit down for this conversation.
In this episode, Corey and Megan delve into the heart of his research, exploring the distinction between mental illness and mental health, and how they coexist. They also share personal stories about the people who changed the course of their lives. Corey speaks openly about his childhood and the moment everything shifted when he went to live with his grandparents, his “earth angels,” who gave him the love and stability to thrive. Megan reflects on her own grandparents and the story behind naming Wagtail Institute in their honour.
This conversation is a deeply human reflection on suffering, healing, and what it means to build a life of meaning. Together, Corey and Megan explore why wellbeing science must stay anchored in reducing suffering, not just chasing happiness, and how focusing on quality over quantity in how we live, connect, and care for one another might just change everything.
You can purchase a copy of the book, Languishing, here.
Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute
Wagtail Institute empowers schools and complex settings to become trauma-informed wellbeing communities of practice where everyone can thrive. We work alongside leaders, educators, and practitioners to respond to wellbeing challenges, enhance trauma-informed practice, and navigate pathways to healing. If you would like to work with Megan, head to our website or send an email: [email protected]
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Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/
