The Buena Vida Podcast
Welcome to the Buena Vida Podcast!
Formerly known as the ERS Walk & Talk Podcast, the Buena Vida Podcast is brought to you by the Employees Retirement System of Texas (ERS). This podcast is designed to support state employees and employees of higher education institutions who receive benefits through our program.
In each episode, we explore topics that promote well-being, health, and balance, featuring expert guests, insightful discussions, and practical tips for living a healthier, happier life. From mindfulness and stress management to fitness, nutrition, and overall wellness, we’ve got you covered!
Our podcast library also includes all previous episodes from the ERS Walk & Talk Podcast (dating back to 2021), so you can catch up on all the great content while enjoying the fresh direction of Buena Vida — the good life.
Subscribe today and start taking steps toward living your best life!
The Buena Vida Podcast
The BAMBA Model of Happiness: Part 3 with Professor Raj Raghunathan, Ph.D.
In part 3 of this 3 part podcast Professor Raj explains the BAMBA model of happiness. BAMBA represents the 5 determinants of happiness in the workplace and includes:
- Basic Needs
- Autonomy
- Mastery
- Belonging
- Abundance Culture
Are You Controlling of Others Scale
1- Strongly disagree 2- Disagree 3- Probably disagree 4- Neutral 5-Probably agree 6- Agree
7 – Strongly Agree
1. I have high expectations for the people that are important to me.
2. I have very high standards for those around me.
3. If I ask someone to do something I expect it to be done flawlessly.
4. I can't be bothered by people who won't strive to better themselves.
5. The people who matter to me should never let me down.
What it means:
5-15- Afraid of control
16-25 Ideal
26-35 Control freak
Gratitude exercise to improve culture:
1. Think of a person that has had a positive impact on you in the recent past. (ideally not someone you have thanked before).
2. Send them a short note (or text) thanking them for the positive impact they have had on you
Check out the WestJet Ad that shows a great example of what abundance culture looks like!
Resources:
- Happiness at Work Webinar for ERS
- Raj's book: “If You’re So Smart, Why Aren’t You Happy?”
Raj's online course links (available at no cost):
- A Life of Happiness and Fulfillment | Coursera
- Happier Employees and Return-On-Investment Course | edX