Happiness Studies Academy (HSA)
The mission of the Happiness Studies Academy is to lead the happiness revolution, by educating leaders who are themselves dedicated to personal, interpersonal, and communal flourishing.
To realize our mission, we at HSA take a wholistic, interdisciplinary approach to teaching happiness—first in the way we define happiness, and second in the way we teach it. We define happiness as the experience of wholeperson wellbeing, or in short, the experience of wholebeing.
The five elements essential to a life of wholebeing are:
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Taken together, these elements, make up the acronym SPIRE,
and indeed they inspire all of our programs—from our introductory lectures on
happiness to the one-year Certificate in Happiness Studies.
The Power of Interdisciplinary Learning
To better understand, pursue, and attain wholebeing, it is not enough to explore each of the SPIRE elements through the lens of a single field—be it psychology or philosophy. Instead, we need to take an interdisciplinary approach, turn to psychology and philosophy, as well as to literature, history, economics, theology, biology and other disciplines. This interdisciplinary approach is aligned with our general wholistic approach—one that bridges rather than divides, unites rather than separates. The rich content coupled with the unique way in which the content is taught, informs about the meaning and significance of happiness, as well as transforms and creates a better world.
Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar | HSA Co-founder & World-Renowned Expert
One of the world's leading experts in the science of happiness!
Tal taught two of the most popular courses in Harvard University's history: Positive Psychology and The Psychology of Leadership. His books have been translated into over 30 languages and have appeared on best-seller lists around the world. Tal's work bridges Eastern and Western traditions, ancient wisdom, and modern technology, science, and art.
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"HSA’s mission is to bring the study of happiness out of the ivory tower and into everyday life through our programs, courses, and community. Rather than leaving happiness research solely to psychologists, HSA embraces insights from philosophy, theology, biology, economics, and beyond—because discovering what makes life meaningful requires a truly interdisciplinary approach. Our curriculum invites students to engage with diverse perspectives and to put proven practices into action. At the heart of HSA’s offerings lies the SPIRE framework—five interrelated domains (Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Relational, and Emotional) that guide our workshops, retreats, coaching, and online courses. By weaving together scholarly wisdom and hands-on experimentation, HSA empowers learners to cultivate lasting wellbeing in all areas of life."
Yuval Kutz | HSA President & Co-founder
Happiness Studies Academy offers online multilingual educational programs from a Certificate in Happiness Studies to a fully accredited master's degree. HSA hosts a global support network made up of thousands of professionals from 100 countries.
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"SPIRE is a scientific-based happiness model focused on human beings' more basic and natural aspects. Therefore, it is an objective happiness that fits every environment and culture. It is already proven in more than 100 countries around the world. SPIRE is well structured and supported because it is an academic mesh, covering many fields of human knowledge such as economics, sociology, philosophy, theology, biology, psychology, anthropology, literature, art, and music. The SPIRE model has dramatically impacted people with no previous approach to happiness and those who have taught it for years. It can be taught at different depths and fitted to diverse audiences and various needs."
The Faculty
Ashley Michael
United States
Ashley has a background in HR, business, and law. She loves reading, writing, tea, and once won a slow bike race in her hometown. She’s excited to be part of the HSA community.
Blenda Batista de Oliveira
Portugal
Blenda is an HSA professor, PhD student in Positive Psychology, and certified Happiness Trainer, dedicated to teaching and promoting wellbeing across communities and workplaces.
Henrique Bueno
Brazil
Henrique is a happiness expert, speaker, and HSA professor. He leads WBI Brazil and Portugal, and teaches leaders and teams to thrive through Positive Psychology worldwide.
Phoebe Atkinson
United States
Phoebe is a therapist, coach, and educator with 20+ years' experience. She blends positive psychology and experiential methods to help individuals and teams grow and thrive.
Estefanie Martens Briceno
Peru
Estefanie is a biologist, happiness trainer, and podcast host who helps people and companies grow through science-based tools, storytelling, and a passion for human flourishing.
Arlen Solodkin
Mexico
Arlen is CEO of Instituto de Bienestar Integral and an HSA professor. She brings positive psychology to Spanish-speaking communities through teaching, training, and social work.
Managment Team
Aviad Klein
Director of Student Affairs
Aviad oversees every aspect of the student journey at HSA—from onboarding and academic support to alumni engagement and community building. With a hands-on approach, he coordinates program logistics, handles questions and concerns, and ensures each learner has the resources and guidance they need to thrive. Whether it’s troubleshooting technical issues, organizing events, or facilitating connections among students and alumni, Aviad makes sure everyone feels supported, informed, and part of a vibrant community.
Sahar Yosef Maimony
Chief Operating & Financial Officer (COO & CFO)
Sahar bridges vision and execution at HSA. As COO & CFO, he leads with precision, heart, and strategy—overseeing everything from operational excellence to financial sustainability. With a deep commitment to HSA’s mission, Sahar ensures our programs run smoothly, our students are empowered, and our future is thoughtfully built.
Udi Mozes
Creative Director & Media Producer
Udi brings the spirit of HSA to life through visuals and storytelling. As Creative Director and Media Producer, he captures our message with authenticity and depth—whether behind the camera, in the editing room, or crafting content that inspires. His work helps translate the science of happiness into images and moments that resonate across the globe.
Ronnen Shulman
Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)
Ronnen is the strategic mind behind HSA’s global voice. As Chief Marketing Officer, he leads campaigns that communicate our mission with clarity and purpose—engaging students, professionals, and organizations around the world. Driven by a passion for meaningful, purpose-led communication, Ronnen ensures our message resonates meaningfully, not just widely.
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