Why Giving Is Actually Good For Your Health, with Richard Osman

Richard Osman is known for his wit, his bestselling novels, and his sharp eye for detail. But behind it all is a simple guiding habit: tip generously.

For Richard, it’s never just about money. Growing up tall and often feeling different gave him a deep sense of empathy, and over time he realised that generosity, whether through money, time, kindness, or attention, isn’t an extra, it’s essential. It’s how we connect, build trust, and shape the kind of people we want to be.

In this episode, we explore what Richard’s philosophy of generosity can teach us about leadership, empathy, and happiness. Together, we explore:

• Why empathy often comes from our differences
• How generosity builds trust and connection
• The science of giving and why it makes us happier
• Why small, everyday acts can shape who we become
• How leaders and teams can practise “tipping generously”

Because high performance isn’t only about discipline and drive, it’s also about compassion, empathy, and the quiet strength of lifting others as we go.

Here is more information on the studies referenced: 

1. Spending money on others promotes happiness (Dunn, Aknin & Norton, 2008)
2. What we get when we give (Harvard Medicine, 2023)
3. Self-Determination Theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being (Deci & Ryan, 2000)
4. Influencing value priorities and increasing well-being: The effects of reflecting on intrinsic values (Lekes, Hope, Gouveia, Koestner & Philippe, 2012)

Listen to the full episode with Richard Osman: https://pod.fo/e/26ea40

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