Why are Scandinavian Countries so Rich and Happy?

Podcast created by: Munkhdelger Myagmar and Drake Pierce

Our podcast dives into the economic and social roots of happiness in Scandinavian countries, exploring what makes nations like Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden consistently rank at the top of global happiness charts. Using research from the World Happiness Reports, academic studies, and policy comparisons, we look at how factors like strong welfare systems, social trust, equitable education, environmental quality, and good governance contribute to national well-being. We also discuss economic paradoxes, like how GDP growth doesn't always mean greater life satisfaction, and examine whether these Scandinavian models can be adapted elsewhere. With data from Eastern Europe, the U.S., and Japan, we contrast different systems and ask: can other countries build societies where happiness is more than just a side effect of prosperity?