How to Be a Better Human

Luisa Neubauer, a prominent climate activist and leader of Germany's Fridays for Future movement, dives deep into the pressing issue of climate anxiety. She discusses how individuals can shift from feeling overwhelmed to taking collective action against climate change. Exploring systemic change, she highlights the importance of grassroots efforts and accountability from corporations and governments. Neubauer emphasizes the concept of 'possibilism,' urging listeners to engage emotionally and actively in their communities to foster meaningful transformation.

In this engaging discussion, guest Wendy Troxel, a Senior Behavioral and Social Scientist at RAND and an expert on sleep disorders, shares valuable insights on how sleep impacts our relationships. She explores the unique dynamics of couples sharing a bed and the benefits of sleeping apart, urging open communication about sleep needs. Wendy also highlights societal factors affecting sleep health and advocates for cultural shifts prioritizing rest. With practical tips for optimizing sleep environments and routines, she emphasizes patience as a cornerstone of both good sleep and strong relationships.

Do you volunteer in your community? Don’t feel bad if the answer is no. Whether you are currently involved in a cause or not, you probably have some mental image of what it means to be a volunteer. Doniece Sandoval has been doing transformative work for years, most recently as the founder of Lava MaeX, a San Francisco-based nonprofit that began by converting public transportation buses into bathrooms on wheels for the homeless. In today’s episode, she shares tips on how to get started with a cause you care about, and debunks myths about volunteerism that might have kept you from taking action in the first place. Doniece’s work is driven by what she calls “radical hospitality”, the idea that raising the bar on how you serve people is revolutionary. Since launching its service, Lava MaeX has transformed the lives of more than 10,000 Californians. Before tackling hygiene for the homeless, Doniece worked in the arts as head of marketing at the San Jose Museum of Art, and in branding at several major private sector companies. Doniece was recognized as a 2017 CNN Hero. To learn more about "How to Be a Better Human," host Chris Duffy, or find footnotes and additional resources, please visit: go.ted.com/betterhumanFor the full text transcript, visit go.ted.com/BHTranscriptsHow to Be a Better Human is nominated for the Signal Award for Best Advice & How To. Vote here!Interested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links:TEDNext: ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Celeste Headlee, an award-winning journalist and author of "We Need to Talk," shares her insights on improving conversational skills. She discusses her personal journey from poor conversationalist to proficient public radio host, emphasizing that listening is key. Celeste highlights the distinction between being a good talker and a true conversationalist, and offers strategies for navigating difficult discussions. She also reflects on the importance of advocating for equitable healthcare access, drawing on her own life-threatening experiences.

Glen Henry, a musician and content creator known for his YouTube channel Beleaf In Fatherhood, explores the joys and struggles of family life. He discusses the importance of vulnerability and humor in parenting, particularly within the Black community. Glen shares personal stories about the emotional landscape of stay-at-home parenting while emphasizing humility and forgiveness. He addresses societal stereotypes surrounding fatherhood and encourages open communication, reminding listeners that sharing challenges can foster connection and support among families.

Emily Nagoski, a renowned sex educator and author of "Come as You Are," delves into the complexities of our sexual lives. She encourages open conversations to dispel discomfort and misconceptions surrounding sex. Exploring sexual normalcy, she critiques traditional education and highlights individualized experiences. Emphasizing self-acceptance, Nagoski advocates for body positivity and introspection in understanding one's sexual identity. Ultimately, she inspires listeners to embrace vulnerability and foster genuine connections to enhance their joy and confidence in sexuality.

Meag-gan O'Reilly, a licensed psychologist at Stanford University and CEO of Inherent Value Psychology, explores how to reshape our self-worth in today's changing world. She discusses the importance of intrinsic value over external validation and provides strategies for individuals navigating identity crises, especially students facing disruptions. O'Reilly emphasizes self-compassion and open communication to support emotional resilience, urging listeners to reject harmful societal comparisons and embrace spontaneity during uncertain times.

David Korins, a celebrated production designer known for his work on Broadway hits and major events, shares his insights on crafting meaningful spaces. He discusses how design influences our emotions and well-being, encouraging listeners to be intentional in their choices. David emphasizes the power of color and texture in shaping mood, while offering tips for maximizing comfort in small spaces. The conversation inspires us to see our environments as reflections of ourselves and to embrace creativity in our personal design journeys.

Dr. Leana Wen, an emergency physician and public health advocate, shares her insights on navigating the healthcare system. She emphasizes the importance of patient advocacy, encouraging individuals to articulate their health narratives. Dr. Wen discusses the disconnect between patients and doctors, highlighting the need for better communication. With practical tips for effective medical visits, she empowers listeners to take charge of their healthcare. Inspired by her mother's struggles, her advocacy hinges on trust and the critical role of supportive advocates.

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Dwinita Mosby Tyler, Chief Catalyst and Founder of The Equity Project, delves into the essence of being an ally. She discusses the need for 'unlikely allies' in the fight for justice and the importance of recognizing our privileges. Dr. Tyler shares poignant childhood experiences with systemic racism and highlights the transition from being a bystander to an active advocate. She emphasizes inclusivity and the power of diverse voices in shaping equitable systems, urging everyone to leverage their resources for meaningful change.