How to Be a Better Human
TED
Join How to Be a Better Human as we take a look within and beyond ourselves.How to Be a Better Human isn’t your average self improvement podcast. Each week join comedian Chris Duffy in conversation with guests and past speakers as they uncover sharp insights and give clear takeaways on how YOU can be a better human.From your work to your home and your head to your heart, How to Be a Better Human looks in unexpected places for new ways to improve and show up for one another. Inspired by the popular series of the same name on TED’s Ideas blog, How to Be a Better Human will help you become a better person from the comfort of your own headphones.Follow Chris on Instagram at @chrisiduffy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
8 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 41min
How to build your kid's confidence — by leaving them alone (w/ Lenore Skenazy)
Lenore Skenazy, founder of the Free Range Kids movement, discusses the importance of giving children independence to foster confidence and competence. She argues that constant parental supervision can harm kids' development and advocates for experiential learning. Lenore shares insights on how free play is essential for mental health and suggests practical steps for parents to embrace hands-off parenting. With personal anecdotes and cultural comparisons, she highlights that letting kids navigate the world themselves builds resilience and curiosity.
176 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 39min
How to talk so people will listen (w/ Julian Treasure)
Julian Treasure, a renowned author and sound expert, shares his insights on the power of effective communication. He emphasizes the significance of both content and delivery, revealing techniques for clear speaking and conscious listening. Julian introduces the RASA method for better listening and advocates for using silence strategically. He also discusses the H.A.L.I. principles for authentic communication and highlights the differences in listening styles to enhance relationships. Plus, find out his favorite sound—gentle rain!
151 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 37min
How to communicate better (w/ Charles Duhigg)
Charles Duhigg, author of Super Communicators and The Power of Habit, shares his insights on effective communication. He discusses the elements that make someone a supercommunicator, emphasizing trust and emotional engagement. Duhigg explains the importance of asking deep questions and active listening for meaningful dialogue. He also addresses the nuances of digital communication, where tone and context can drastically change interpretations. Finally, he offers strategies for fostering authentic connections and navigating the complexities of modern conversations.
43 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 40min
How to stop doomscrolling — and what to do instead? (w/ Katherine Cross)
Katherine Cross, a researcher on online harassment and author of "Log Off: Why Posting and Politics (Almost) Never Mix," dives into the pitfalls of doomscrolling and its detrimental impact on mental health. She discusses why social media is often “anti-political,” making genuine engagement difficult. Katherine stresses the need for critical thinking around technology's societal roles, and she advocates for real-life connections to foster meaningful political discourse instead of superficial online interactions.
25 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 36min
The future of finding love with Bumble CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd | ReThinking with Adam Grant
Join Whitney Wolfe Herd, Founder and CEO of Bumble, as she shares her vision for love in the AI era. Discover her journey through leadership and burnout while emphasizing the power of genuine connections. Whitney challenges the idea of self-love as a prerequisite for romance, and discusses Bumble's commitment to emotional intelligence beyond dating. Explore the role of friendships and shared values in forming deeper relationships, and imagine a future where AI enhances, rather than diminishes, human connection.
55 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 40min
How to rest when life is overwhelming (w/ Katherine May)
Katherine May, author of "Wintering" and "Enchantment," explores the importance of acknowledging life’s challenges as natural experiences. She discusses how humor can be a powerful coping mechanism during tough times and the necessity of having genuine conversations about pain rather than resorting to clichés. Katherine emphasizes the beauty that can be found amidst struggles, advocating for mindfulness and connection with others. Through her insights, listeners are encouraged to embrace vulnerability and navigate life's complexities more authentically.
33 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 41min
How to love your complicated family (w/ Ashley C. Ford)
Ashley C. Ford, author of the bestselling memoir *Somebody’s Daughter*, dives deep into her complex family dynamics, including her father's incarceration and her relationship with her mother. She discusses how writing serves as a powerful tool for processing emotions and navigating personal growth. The conversation also explores the emotional nuances of childhood memories, the shift in kindness as we age, and the role of libraries as safe havens. It's a heartfelt exploration of love, trauma, and the messy realities of family.
63 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 38min
How to be more joyful (w/ Ingrid Fetell Lee)
Ingrid Fetell Lee, a designer and author of "Joyful," explores the delightful connection between our surroundings and our emotions. She shares insights on why children radiate joy and how sensory experiences, like vibrant colors and playful designs, can transform our environments into joy-filled spaces. Ingrid emphasizes the distinction between joy and happiness, encouraging adults to reclaim their childlike wonder. She also discusses the power of 'joy spotting' and the infectious nature of joy, showing how sharing happiness strengthens community bonds.
49 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 40min
How to keep close friendships (w/ Aminatou Sow)
Aminatou Sow, a journalist and the host of Call Your Girlfriend, explores the nuances of maintaining close friendships. She discusses the vital role of honest communication and why attending couples counseling with a friend can be transformative. Aminatou reflects on the impact of the pandemic on relationships, stressing the need for small gestures and open dialogues. She also dives into the emotional depth of storytelling in obituaries and how personal narratives shape our lives, all while rejecting the relentless chase for self-improvement.
15 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 24min
How to find laughter anywhere (w/ Dan Harris and guests)
Discover how to find humor in everyday life with insights from a variety of engaging guests. Learn the art of mindfulness and its connection to laughter. Hear personal stories that highlight creativity and joy through shared experiences, even when facing challenges. Enjoy anecdotes that showcase the power of humor to build connections and foster resilience. Embrace the delight in absurdity and the transformative potential of laughter, all while practicing being present in the moment.
