How to Be a Better Human

Join Jon Batiste, a Grammy, Emmy, and Oscar-winning musician, as he delves into the transformative power of music and his incredible journey. He shares how his New Orleans upbringing shaped his talent and confidence, turning past shyness into stage presence. Batiste reflects on faith, the significance of inclusivity in music, and his connection to classic figures. He even draws inspiration from 'Forrest Gump,' illustrating resilience in his artistic identity. Don’t miss his insights on pursuing excellence and the evolving legacy of his craft!

In this discussion, Anil Seth, a Professor of Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience at the University of Sussex, dives deep into the nature of consciousness and identity. He critiques the idea of the brain as a 'supercomputer' and emphasizes a more holistic view of human experience. Seth explores how our perceptions of reality, including color, are influenced by emotions and biological processes. He also addresses the ethical dilemmas of technology and AI in shaping our identities, making the complex science of self-accessible to everyone.

Austin Kleon, a writer and artist renowned for his book 'Steal Like an Artist', dives into the joys of creative theft, suggesting that borrowing inspiration helps us pay closer attention to the world. He speaks about 'scenius', the collaborative genius found within groups, and emphasizes how children can be incredible creative teachers. Kleon also shares insights on balancing discipline with spontaneity in art, advocating for a playful approach that embraces imperfections, making creativity a joyful experience.

Debbie Millman, an accomplished illustrator, author, and educator, shares her insights on creativity and personal growth. She discusses the importance of authenticity in the age of personal branding and how her passion for gardening parallels her creative journey. Millman also explores the healing power of art in the face of trauma, emphasizing patience, imperfection, and the continuous evolution of one's creative identity. Additionally, she advocates for organizations that empower survivors, weaving together themes of transformation and resilience.

Ethan Lindenberger, who gained fame for getting vaccinated against his anti-vaccine mother's beliefs, shares his journey from Reddit to the Senate. He discusses how personal stories can shift the narrative on vaccinations. Joining him is Jennifer Reich, a sociology professor, who delves into the roots of vaccine mistrust shaped by cultural and social factors. Together, they highlight the urgent need for transparency in medical communication and effective strategies to combat misinformation, aiming to rebuild public trust in vaccines.

Heather Havrilesky, author of Foreverland and writer of the advice columns Ask Polly and Ask Molly, dives into the messy parts of self-identity. She discusses how embracing contradictions can lead to a happier life. The conversation touches on the tumultuous twenties, the art of writing authentically, and the necessity of humor in overcoming life's absurdities. Heather also reflects on societal pressures and the importance of presenting a genuine self in a fragmented world.

Dawn Burrell, an Olympic long jumper turned celebrated chef, shares her transformative journey in this conversation. She discusses the challenges of shifting careers and how she redefined success on her own terms. Dawn emphasizes the importance of resilience and personal growth, touching on mental health and the joy of cooking as a means of connection. Listeners will find her insights on embracing failures and nurturing creativity truly inspiring, reminding us all that it's never too late to reinvent ourselves.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Aziz Abu Sarah, a Palestinian author and peacemaker, shares his journey from anger to advocacy for peace. He discusses the importance of empathy and the transformative power of travel in bridging cultural divides. Aziz emphasizes storytelling as a means to foster understanding in conflict resolution, promoting dialogue over division. He highlights the need for compassion and forgiveness while navigating complex emotions stemming from personal and collective grief, ultimately inspiring listeners to choose peace amid adversity.

Rhaina Cohen, an award-winning journalist and author of 'The Other Significant Others', discusses the significance of friendship and its potential to enhance our lives. She dives into the concept of 'friendship fidelity' and how reducing expectations from friends can improve relationship dynamics. Rhaina also navigates the emotional nuances of adult friendships, offering practical tips for coping with loss and managing differing political views. Her insights challenge the conventional perceptions of relationships, urging us to prioritize platonic connections.

Abigail Marsh, a psychology and neuroscience professor at Georgetown University and author of *The Fear Factor*, dives into the intriguing world of psychopathy and altruism. She discusses why extreme altruists, like organ donors, exist alongside the morally ambiguous traits of some highly successful individuals. Marsh unpacks the brain differences between these groups and critiques American culture's obsession with psychopathy. Plus, she shares parent strategies for navigating children's behavioral challenges, advocating for a blend of discipline and empathy.