

Being Human
Richard Atherton
Being Human is for people who want go deep on what it means to be a human making a difference.
We’ll discover how to be better humans at work and in life.
We’ll explore leadership, relationships and how to make changes in ourselves and our environments. Nothing will be off limits.
Welcome.
We’ll discover how to be better humans at work and in life.
We’ll explore leadership, relationships and how to make changes in ourselves and our environments. Nothing will be off limits.
Welcome.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 14, 2025 • 54min
#339 Facing the AI Revolution: Placing the Right Bets for Your Business - Daniel Hulme
▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/
In this fascinating conversation, I sit down with Daniel Hulme, an AI expert, innovator, and thought leader. Daniel has an extensive track record, from founding the AI optimization startup Satalia (acquired by the advertising giant WPP) to exploring groundbreaking ideas in AI consciousness, neuromorphic computing (building computers that work more like human brains), and agent verification (checking that an AI is really who it claims to be).
Together, we discuss the intersection of humanity and technology, diving into the limitations of artificial intelligence, the significance of empathy, and how creativity remains our most vital skill in the age of automation. Daniel offers thought-provoking perspectives on education reform, critical thinking, and project-based learning as the future of personal and professional growth.
We talk:
- Apple’s doubts about AI reasoning ability
- The rise of the AI scientist
- Use of AI in business - where to invest
- Can an AI be conscious?
- What to advise your kids
Links:
Consicum
Moral.me
If you’re curious about how humans can thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world, this episode provides valuable insights into fostering innovation, adapting to change, and embracing what makes us human.

Jul 30, 2025 • 2h 4min
#338 The Alchemy of Creation - with Steven Young
▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/
In this challenging episode (challenging in a good way), I sit down with Steven Young, author of ‘A Fool’s Wisdom’.
Steven’s path is remarkable. From a PhD in nuclear physics, to having all his assumptions about reality turned upside, it’s been emotional. Atomic theory, accepted cosmology, and the theory of gravity - he now questions it all.
Steven takes his place amongst a growing cadre of intellectuals rejecting Modernity’s scientific orthodoxies.
But this isn’t just about poking a stick at accepted dogmas. Steven is now embracing a notion of science that integrates a broader understanding of consciousness. A return to the powerful, intuitive alchemical principles on which early science was founded. One that can inspire and empower creatives and leaders alike.
We discuss:
How a nuclear physicist starts questioning the globe theory
Letting go of the atomic theory
Finding alchemy
An alchemical approach to product development
Towards an artistic and societal renaissance
Links:
Steven’s Substack
Steven’s Website
Don’t miss this fascinating conversation—it might change how you view creativity forever.

Jul 15, 2025 • 1h 55min
#337 Are You Still The Future? - with Piers Fallowfield-Cooper
▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/
My guest in this episode, Piers Fallowfield-Cooper, was an unlikely city slicker. With keen interest in literature and a qualification in hotel management and hospitality, he got into commodities trading by chance. Once there, he found that he had a considerable knack for it.
From trading, he pivoted to a distinguished career in business leadership.
We talk:
Foundations of high performance
Nearly dying as a child
Authentic leadership: skirmishes vs battles
Why not to set goals
Adaptability and adoptability
Links:
Piers’ Website
Whether you’re a leader in your field or someone seeking profound insights into personal and professional growth, this conversation is packed with wisdom, humor, and practical takeaways.

Jun 29, 2025 • 1h 11min
#336 The Gratitude Tiger - with Joel Zuckerman
In this lively discussion, Joel Zuckerman, author of 'Gratitude Tiger' and ex-golf writer, passionately champions the benefits of gratitude. He shares his journey from sports writing to advocating for appreciation, having penned over 280 gratitude letters. Joel introduces his TIGER philosophy, highlighting how simple, heartfelt notes can transform personal and professional connections. Discover actionable tips for expressing gratitude and learn why handwritten letters remain powerful tools for enhancing relationships and emotional health.

Jun 19, 2025 • 49min
#335 Power: Why Some People Have It and Others Don't - with Jeffrey Pfeffer
▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/
This week’s episode is perhaps one of the most uncomfortable I’ve yet recorded. A conversation with Jeffrey Pfeffer, the renowned author of "Power: Why Some People Have It and Others Don't" and “Leadership BS: Fixing Workplaces and Careers One Truth at a Time”, and professor at Stanford Graduate School of Business, we dive deep into the principles of power, influence, and career acceleration.
Jeffrey offers his view on the raw truth about what it takes to stand out, thrive, and succeed in a world shaped by competition and perception. From strategies to gain influence to the controversial role of self-promotion, this conversation is packed with insights that challenge conventional wisdom about leadership and integrity.
Learn why keeping your head down might be holding you back, how deliberate practice can transform your career, and why following Jeffrey’s proven methods have made many of his students wildly successful.
As Jeffrey takes a torch to leadership development orthodoxy, we cover:
How many leadership authors espoused values don’t match the reality of their behaviour
To change the world, we must first have power
Leadership training fails—because it ignores power and influence dynamics.
Authenticity at work? Not so much if you want to be a leader, says Pfeffer.
Pfeffer’s 7 rules of power—practical, provocative, uncomfortably effective.
Links:
Jeffrey’s Website
Jeffrey’s Books
Whether you're a budding leader or seasoned professional, this episode will inspire and empower you to take charge of your path. Don't miss out on this transformative discussion—subscribe for more thought-provoking conversations about what it means to be human.

Jun 9, 2025 • 1h 4min
#334 Discovering the Nature of Longevity - with Douglas Mulhall
▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/
This week, I sit down with Douglas Mulhall, author of the bestselling book Discovering the Nature of Longevity: Restoring the Heart and Body by Targeting Hidden Stress. Douglas has spent over 30 years creating products that are not only good for people but also the environment, with significant contributions in collaboration with European governments.
We take a deep look at elastin, a major area of interest for Douglas. It’s a vital protein key to your body’s resilience.
Elastin is in more than 30 organs. It’s in your arteries. It’s essential for everything in your body to expand and contract.
We talk:
Elastin defined
The tragedy that spurred his quest
The story of calcification
How to reverse the hardening of our bodies
Hope for a heart disease breakthrough
Links:
Discovering the Nature of Longevity - The Book
Douglas’ Website
If you’re curious about unlocking your body’s potential, this episode is an absolute must-watch! Don't miss out—subscribe for more thought-provoking conversations about what it means to be human.

Jun 8, 2025 • 54min
#333 The Last 8% - with Bill Benjamin
In this engaging conversation, Bill Benjamin, co-owner of The Last 8%, shares his journey from software to emotional intelligence expert. He emphasizes the significance of handling life's toughest moments—the 'last 8%'—that truly define us. Bill offers real strategies for prepping for difficult conversations and managing emotional triggers effectively. He also discusses the essential balance of empathy and assertion in communication, and how these elements contribute to cultivating a high-performing team culture.

May 22, 2025 • 1h 25min
#332 Leadership Wisdom from a 16th Generation Samurai - with Sensei Zen Takai & Edward Olver
▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/
This week, we are thrilled to feature two remarkable guests: Sensei Zen Takai and Edward Olver.
Sensei Zen Takai, is a 16th-generation samurai warrior. After a brief stint as a punk rocker, he chose to return to his roots. With no descendants of his own and to ensure it lives on, he's on a mission to share his family's samurai tradition with the world. He teaches mastery of the familiar samurai arts with creative expressions like calligraphy, poetry, and dance. Dedicated to self-mastery and spiritual alignment, Sensei encourages others to live harmoniously and connect deeply with their life's purpose.
A former military man and banker, Edward Olver experienced a profound awakening after realising that external success—the Hollywood actress girlfriend and the Knightsbridge corner office—did not fulfill him. Through personal upheaval, he rediscovered his dharma and embraced growth aligned with life's natural rhythms. Now based at Broughton Hall - a UK hub for cutting edge research into consciousness - Edward focuses on regenerative practices, living in harmony with nature, and integrating timeless wisdom to foster holistic well-being.
Their combined perspectives will offer insight into purposeful living.
We talk:
Training Samurai as a boy
Samurai and the five elements
How poetry can make you a better warrior
Three-pointed thinking
Beyond competition
Links:
Sensei Zen Takai at Broughton Sanctuary
Subscribe for more transformative conversations!

May 12, 2025 • 1h 23min
#331 Doing ‘The Work’ - with Byron Katie
In this enlightening discussion, Byron Katie, a renowned author and speaker known for 'The Work', shares her transformative journey from struggle to self-realization. She explains her method of self-inquiry, urging listeners to question their negative thoughts through four powerful questions. Topics include the fallacy of a positive mindset, the illusion of pain as a mental construct, and the importance of self-awareness and kindness in overcoming ego. Katie's insights promote a profound understanding of personal freedom and emotional clarity.

May 7, 2025 • 54min
#330 Love in the Workplace (It's Not What You Think) - with Marcel Schwantes
▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/
This week we see Marcel Schwantes return to the show.
Marcel is an author, leadership coach, and advocate for humane workplace practices. His journey into leadership began during his time working in a toxic hospital environment, where relentless stress landed him in the emergency room—an experience that profoundly shaped his views on leadership and well-being.
He now challenges traditional, warlike business narratives, advocating for radical love and humanity in leadership.
His work inspires leaders to foster compassionate, thriving businesses by shifting focus from competition to collaboration and introspection.
We talk:
Agape love
“Eufear”: the good fear
Retiring "target customers"‘
Working for love
The 5 principles of Love In Action
Links:
Humane Leadership: Lead with Radical Love, Be a Kick-Ass Boss - The Book
Marcel’s Website
Marcel’s LinkedIn Profile
Marcel’s Substack
Subscribe for more transformative conversations!