In a time when stress is at an all-time high, poor mental health is on the rise, and loneliness is a common experience, it’s crucial to take inventory of our lives, our connection with ourselves, and our sense of community. With the world in our pocket, we may feel an endless digital connection to the people around us, yet we’ve become increasingly disconnected from the physical world and the communities we live in. The Kindness Effect Summit, presented by the Kindr Foundation, offers an opportunity to bridge this gap and rekindle the bonds that sustain our well-being.
This summit highlights human connection as a powerful determinant of both physical and mental health. Through “Mindful Kindness”—a blend of mindfulness and kindness—participants can foster a sense of community, nurture positive relationships, and cultivate a deeper, more compassionate connection with themselves. The event brings together experts, educators, and innovators who reveal the science of how small acts of Mindful Kindness have the power to transform our lives, communities, and workplaces.
Exploring the Essence of Mindful Kindness
At the heart of the summit is a shared belief: Mindful Kindness is a superpower. It’s not just about being polite or considerate; it’s about rewiring how we connect—with ourselves, with others, and with the communities we’re part of. Speakers at the summit bring unique perspectives to this conversation, blending science, spirituality, and lived experiences to help us reimagine the role Mindful Kindness plays in our lives.
For instance, psychiatrist Dr. Kelli Harding draws on her research and insights from “The Rabbit Effect” to remind us that our health is deeply rooted in the quality of our relationships. Kindness, she explains, is not just a moral choice but a fundamental pillar of our well-being. Dr. Anna Yusim, author of “Fulfilled: How the Science of Spirituality Can Help You Live a Happier, More Meaningful Life”, invites attendees to explore the profound intersection of spirituality and mental health, offering tools to cultivate purpose and fulfillment in a world that often feels overwhelming.
Dr. Doug Carnine, a lifelong educator and founder of the Kindr Foundation, speaks to the power of Mindful Kindness in education, urging us to shift from a mindset of “me” to “we.” and fill our day with positive microhabits. His teachings are a call to move away from isolation and into connection, where love and empathy become guiding principles in our everyday lives. Dr. Scott Glassman and Dr. Jen Frazier add layers of neuroscience and practicality, helping us see how small mindset shifts can lead to biologically evidence-based changes in the brain. The more we have practices that help us navigate challenges, transform conflict, and build healthier relationships— allowing us to flourish personally and professionally.
“As we think about how we show up in the world, we can begin to see where Mindful Kindness can play a role in our business practices as well,” says Jody Weiss, founder of Consciousness and Capital. “The numbers now show intentional investments that uplift communities can deliver serious returns, challenging us to view transformation not just as an individual act but as a collective responsibility.”
Media, Technology, and Transformation
The summit also explores media and technology’s role in fostering a culture of kindness. Leaders like Bob Sabouni, former Marvel marketing executive, and Snap Chat’s Global Head of Partnerships, Max Rivera join “I’m Listening” producer Corey Crockett, and Co-Founder of World Artists United, Rachel Karry to discuss how media can be a force for good and educate audiences through stories that inspire reflection, growth and connection. We have all felt those goosebumps or been brought to tears by a 30 second click on IG that made us feel like there is still hope in the world and it likely changed our brain chemistry in the moment. Over time, these effects compound and can be the difference between thriving or declining.
Technology will also play a huge role in how we learn, grow and connect. With innovative partnerships like those between Thrive Global and OpenAI, we can all access a personalized support system like never before. Of course, like any transformational journey, there is often no linear path. To break unkind behaviors and maintain consistency in practicing mindful moments, we may find ourselves on course at times, but AI tools can help us detect changes early and guide us back on track.
These voices at the Kindness Effect Summit are united by a common theme: Mindful Kindness is a choice that requires courage and intention. It is a path of healing—not just for ourselves, but for the world around us. The summit is both a medical prescription and an invitation—a chance to reflect on how being just 1% more mindful and 1% kinder could spark a “upward spiral”.
Building a Future of Mindful Kindness and Connection
On day two, Kindr offers a groundbreaking workshop led by Justin Freeman and Shereen Eltobgy, experts in building flourishing workplaces and happy teams. This half-day session reveals how fostering Mindful Kindness at work builds trust, accountability, and motivation, showing participants how to harness it as a tool for connection and growth.
The Kindness Effect Summit is more than an event—it’s a movement toward a world where we all embrace simple acts of kindness and mindful moments to maintain our health and access lasting happiness. With nearly 800,000 students and 7,000 incarcerated adults already impacted by the Kindr Foundation’s programs, this summit proves that change is possible, even in the toughest circumstances. Attendees will gain a profound understanding of how we can each shape the world around us, our homes, communities and offices.
For tickets and more information, visit www.bekindr.org.
Use code Thrive50 for a 50% discount on tickets.