How to Be a Better Human

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.

Stephanie Yates-Anyabwile, a licensed marriage and family therapist, shares her expertise on navigating romantic relationships. She discusses the importance of redefining societal expectations and prioritizing individual values for healthy partnerships. Stephanie highlights the complexities of communication, including the significance of addressing silence and using couples therapy as a tool for growth. With humor and insight, she emphasizes flexibility in relationship dynamics, suggesting that understanding and experimentation can lead to stronger connections.

Craig Mod, a photographer and writer known for his extensive trekking experiences, shares insights on the transformative power of walking. He discusses how long walks serve as a meditation tool and spark creativity, particularly highlighting his journey on Japan's Tōkaidō Road. Craig also contrasts cultural attitudes towards personal fulfillment in Japan and America, emphasizing the role of boredom and space in fostering creativity. Listeners are encouraged to embrace walking as a means for personal recalibration and deeper connections with their surroundings.

Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, a marine biologist and author of 'What If We Get It Right?', shares her vision for a hopeful future concerning climate solutions. She and the host discuss the importance of creatively imagining transformative changes and finding your unique role in climate activism. They emphasize the need for positive narratives that encourage community action, while also exploring how humor can be a powerful tool in navigating climate emotions. The conversation inspires listeners to embrace collective responsibility and work towards revitalizing rural areas and supporting new farmers.

In this insightful conversation, Sarah Kay, a talented poet and educator from New York City, shares her passion for making poetry more accessible. She believes that many people simply haven't discovered the poem that resonates with them. Sarah discusses how engaging with language can foster self-discovery and deeper connections. Through personal stories, she highlights the playful aspects of poetry and the importance of emotional vulnerability in creativity. Listeners are encouraged to embrace poetic moments in their everyday lives.

Clint Smith, a talented poet and author of *How the Word is Passed*, dives deep into the intersections of history and personal identity. He wrestles with the legacy of figures like Thomas Jefferson, advocating for honest narratives about America's past. Clint emphasizes the need to celebrate joyful moments in Black history, encouraging a broader perspective beyond suffering. He intertwines poetry and personal anecdotes to explore growth, creativity, and the vital role of empathy in understanding our complex histories.

In a lively discussion, Rachelle Hampton, the host of Normal Gossip, shares her expertise in storytelling and the allure of juicy tales. She reveals how personal experiences and emotional connections can transform mundane events into captivating narratives. The conversation delves into the intricacies of gossip, including a humorous saga about a snowplow coup and a wedding throuple. Rachelle also emphasizes the importance of listening deeply to uncover the story behind the story, making it a delightful exploration of the art of storytelling.