Shane Dean Brings His Formula for Happiness to Weston College's Lecture Series
By Jill Dando News
Award-winning journalist and founder of The Good News Post, Shane Dean, delivered an uplifting and interactive talk at Weston College's new Lecture Series—empowering staff and students to rewire their minds for joy, resilience, and a happier life.
The Good News Tonic lecture inspired the audience to take control of their mindset and embrace happiness as a daily choice—offering practical, science-backed strategies to thrive in a world often dominated by negative headlines.
The Lecture Series, introduced by the College's new Principal and CEO, Pat Jones, aims to give students and staff access to inspirational speakers who spark meaningful conversations and foster a sense of community.
Shane's talk delivered exactly that—blending neuroscience insights, personal storytelling, and humour to offer a refreshing antidote to today's constant stream of bad news.
Shane is no stranger to reshaping the narrative. In 2011, he launched a pioneering Good News Rooms journalism project at Priory School in Weston-super-Mare, empowering young people to tell positive stories from their schools and communities.
This initiative evolved into The Good News Post, a UK national newspaper committed to sharing uplifting news.
In 2017, Shane founded Jill Dando News, a global platform for young journalists inspired by the late broadcaster Jill Dando's legacy of kindness and community spirit.
With Mr. Speaker and other distinguished figures as patrons, the project continues to train the next generation of positive storytellers, equipping them to find and share the good in the world.
After 30 years in journalism—including time as a political correspondent and after overcoming his own mental health challenges, Shane has made it his mission to reframe the conversation around happiness and mental resilience.
At the heart of Shane's message is a powerful but simple truth: happiness is a choice.
Through his Good News Tonic framework, he shared three key ingredients for rewiring the brain toward joy and resilience—focusing on the mind, body, and spirit.
Reflecting on the event, Shane said:
"It was wonderful to be with Weston College—the audience was terrific.
“I've spent 30 years investigating the secrets to happiness, and it's a joy to share that journey with others—we all learn along the way."
To reinforce the importance of joy, Shane introduced laughter yoga through UK expert Alison Orr, encouraging attendees to interact and experience the mental boost that comes from shared laughter.
Through her organisation, Dubries, Alison offers Laughter Yoga sessions designed to uplift spirits, enhance well-being, and create a sense of connection.
To book one of Shane Dean's Good News Tonic talks, email visit: goodnewspost.co.uk or goodnewstonic.com
