Dr. Marc Brackett, Ph.D., is a renowned psychologist, researcher, and professor, widely recognized for his groundbreaking work in the field of emotional intelligence. As the founding director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and a professor in the Child Study Center at Yale University, Dr. Brackett has spent more than 25 years at the forefront of research that explores the critical role emotions play in all aspects of our lives—from learning and decision-making to creativity, relationships, and mental health. His work has influenced not only the academic community but also education systems and businesses worldwide.
At the heart of Dr. Brackett’s contributions is his leadership in the development of RULER, an evidence-based approach to social and emotional learning (SEL). RULER is an acronym for five essential emotional intelligence skills: Recognizing, Understanding, Labeling, Expressing, and Regulating emotions. These skills form the foundation of emotional intelligence and are integrated into school systems to enhance emotional literacy and well-being among students, educators, and families. Under Dr. Brackett’s guidance, RULER has been adopted by over 5,000 schools globally, positively impacting millions of children and adults. Studies have shown that schools using RULER see improvements in academic performance, reduced bullying, enhanced classroom environments, and decreased teacher stress and burnout.
Dr. Brackett’s research has garnered more than $100 million in grant funding and resulted in the publication of 175 scholarly articles, highlighting the profound influence of emotional intelligence on various aspects of human behavior and well-being. His work has demonstrated how emotional intelligence not only boosts individual performance but also fosters healthier relationships, better decision-making, and improved physical and mental health outcomes. This research has made Dr. Brackett one of the most respected voices in the emotional intelligence field.
In addition to his academic contributions, Dr. Brackett is the author of the best-selling book Permission to Feel, which has been translated into 25 languages. In the book, he emphasizes the importance of embracing emotions as valuable tools for personal growth and well-being. Permission to Feel has resonated with readers across the world, offering practical strategies to improve emotional intelligence and, in turn, lead more fulfilling lives.
Dr. Brackett’s influence extends beyond academia into the corporate world, where he regularly consults with leading companies such as Google, Amazon, and Microsoft. He helps these organizations integrate the principles of emotional intelligence into their training programs and product design, aiming to create work environments where emotional intelligence is valued as a key to success. As co-founder of Oji Life Lab, Dr. Brackett has also developed innovative digital learning systems that teach emotional intelligence skills to corporate employees, further demonstrating his commitment to bringing emotional intelligence to all sectors of society.
His work has been featured extensively in popular media, with appearances in outlets such as The New York Times, Washington Post, Good Morning America, and The Today Show. Dr. Brackett’s ability to communicate complex scientific ideas about emotions in a way that resonates with the public has made him a sought-after keynote speaker at major conferences worldwide. He has delivered talks at over 700 conferences, including at the White House, the U.S. Departments of Education and Defense, and the Royal Foundation of the Prince and Princess of Wales, where his insights into emotional intelligence have inspired leaders across various fields.
Dr. Brackett also serves on the board of directors for the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), the nonprofit organization that founded the SEL field. He is also a member of the program board for the Mental Health Coalition and the Rare Beauty Mental Health Council, both of which work to advance mental health awareness and support.
In 2022, Dr. Brackett co-created the award-winning app HowWeFeel alongside Pinterest co-founder Ben Silbermann. The free app is designed to teach emotion skills and promote well-being, making emotional intelligence accessible to everyone through digital means. His passion for teaching emotional intelligence continues with the launch of his YouTube webcast Dealing with Feelings in February 2024. On the show, Dr. Brackett interviews scientists, authors, musicians, and pop culture figures, exploring their emotional mindsets and the strategies they use to regulate emotions, achieve their goals, and maintain a sense of well-being.
Dr. Marc Brackett’s mission is to help everyone become what he calls an “emotion scientist,” encouraging individuals to be curious about their own and others’ emotions. By doing so, he believes people can unlock their full potential and lead healthier, more successful lives. Through his research, books, programs, and public outreach, Dr. Brackett is truly transforming how we understand and approach emotional intelligence in education, business, and everyday life.