TED Talks Daily My journey to thank all the people responsible for my morning coffee | A.J. Jacobs (re-release)
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Nov 11, 2025 
A.J. Jacobs, an author known for his immersive nonfiction, shares his journey to thank everyone involved in his morning coffee. He reveals how this quest began with a simple dinner tradition and turned into a global exploration of gratitude. Jacobs uncovers the extensive supply chain behind coffee, emphasizing the importance of recognizing others. He discusses how genuine gratitude can enhance life experiences, motivate prosocial behavior, and even improve one's mood. A.J. encourages listeners to start their own gratitude trails, making the world a bit brighter.
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Every Cup Is A Global Collaboration
- Jacobs realized a single cup of coffee depends on hundreds of people across many industries and countries.
- This perspective revealed the astounding interconnectedness behind everyday items.
Make Eye Contact With Workers
- Look up and make eye contact with service workers to acknowledge their humanity.
- Jacobs pledges to spend two seconds to connect because it improves both people's dignity and happiness.
Savor To Stretch Time
- Slow down and savor sensory details by holding a taste for five seconds to notice texture and acidity.
- Jacobs learned tasting rituals from a coffee buyer and applied savoring to other foods to enhance gratitude.