How to Be a Better Human

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.

Richard Weissbourd, a psychologist and Harvard lecturer, joins to explore the pressing parenting dilemmas of today. He discusses the critical balance between fostering happiness, achievement, and kindness in children. The conversation delves into how teaching kids to recognize others' emotions can improve their relationships. Richard highlights the importance of acts of service and community involvement for genuine fulfillment, urging parents to focus on moral values over mere academic success. This insightful dialogue is a must-listen for modern parents!

Naisha Randhar, the Youth Poet Laureate of Dallas and author of "Roses of Arma," shares her inspiring journey as a young poet. She discusses how poetry has transformed her life and empowered her peers, fostering self-expression and community. Naisha highlights the balance between self-awareness and confidence in writing, encourages listeners to embrace their voices, and emphasizes the healing power of poetry in navigating life's challenges. Her insights invite us all to witness our own stories and the world around us.

Tenelle Porter, an assistant professor of psychology at Rowan University who specializes in intellectual humility, joins the conversation to share insights on embracing our fallibility. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing when we might be wrong, suggesting that this openness can lead to personal growth and richer dialogues. Porter highlights its crucial role in education, revealing how teenagers with this quality achieve better academic results. The discussion also explores practical strategies for cultivating humility in both adults and children, enhancing interpersonal relationships.

Rachel Botsman, a professor at Oxford and author specializing in trust, delves into the complex dynamics of trust in today's world. She discusses how trust is shifting from human interactions to technology, raising concerns about AI's role in our decision-making. Botsman emphasizes the challenges of misinformation in the digital age and the emotional impact of trust erosion in online communications. She highlights the need for vulnerability and transparency to foster meaningful connections, especially in uncertain times.