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A simple experiment turning a parking space into a parklet reveals how small changes to public spaces can spark connection, belonging, and awe. Summary: What if even the smallest changes to our cities could transform how we feel and connect? In this episode of _The Science of Happiness_, we visit the site of San Francisco’s first parklet, and explore how reclaiming everyday spaces can invite people to pause, gather, and experience a sense of belonging. _Scroll down for a transcription of this episode._ **Today’s Guests:** BLAINE MERKER is an urban designer and public space advocate. He leads Gehl’s Enterprise & Corporations team. Learn more about Blaine here: [**https://www.gehlpeople.com/people/blaine-merker/**]( https://www.gehlpeople.com/people/blaine-merker/">**https://www.gehlpeople.com/people/blaine-merker/** SETHA LOW is an anthropologist and Professor at City University of New York. She’s also the author of the book Why">https://global.oup.com/academic/product/why-public-space-matters-9780197543733">**_Why Public Space Matters_**, as well as many other books examining the social life of cities. Learn more about Setha here: [**https://www.gc.cuny.edu/people/setha-low**]( https://www.gc.cuny.edu/people/setha-low">**https://www.gc.cuny.edu/people/setha-low** _This episode is supported by The Gambrell Foundation, who believe a great life grows from strong relationships, a sense of belonging, and moments of awe and wonder. Learn more about their work at_ [**_gambrellfoundation.org_**]( http://gambrellfoundation.org">**_gambrellfoundation.org_** **Related Science of Happiness episodes:** What Humans Can Learn From Trees: [**https://tinyurl.com/48te84ps**]( https://tinyurl.com/48te84ps">**https://tinyurl.com/48te84ps** How to Do Good for the Environment (And Yourself): [**https://tinyurl.com/5b26zwkx**]( https://tinyurl.com/5b26zwkx">**https://tinyurl.com/5b26zwkx** Are You Remembering the Good Times: [**https://tinyurl.com/483bkk2h**]( https://tinyurl.com/483bkk2h">**https://tinyurl.com/483bkk2h** **Related Happiness Break episodes:** How To Ground Yourself in Nature: [**https://tinyurl.com/25ftdxpm**]( https://tinyurl.com/25ftdxpm">**https://tinyurl.com/25ftdxpm** Pause to Look at the Sky: [**https://tinyurl.com/4jttkbw3**]( https://tinyurl.com/4jttkbw3">**https://tinyurl.com/4jttkbw3** Experience Nature Wherever You Are, with Dacher: [**https://tinyurl.com/mrutudeh**]( https://tinyurl.com/mrutudeh">**https://tinyurl.com/mrutudeh** Follow us on Instagram: [**@ScienceOfHappinessPod** ]( https://www.instagram.com/scienceofhappinesspod/">**@ScienceOfHappinessPod** We’d love to hear about your experience with this practice! Share your thoughts at happinesspod@berkeley.edu or use the hashtag #happinesspod. Find us on Apple Podcasts: [**https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aap**]( https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aap">**https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aap** Help us share Happiness Break! Leave a 5-star review and share this link:**">https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aap">** [https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aap](https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aap Transcription:) Transcription: [**https://tinyurl.com/yr7m2zb5**]( https://tinyurl.com/yr7m2zb5">**https://tinyurl.com/yr7m2zb5**