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 @chrisiduffyInterested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links:TEDNext: ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
43 snips
Mar 10, 2025 • 34min
What to do when your beliefs are challenged (w/ Tenelle Porter)
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.
48 snips
Mar 3, 2025 • 38min
How to trust in times of uncertainty (w/ Rachel Botsman)
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.
30 snips
Feb 24, 2025 • 37min
How to get your sense of wonder back (w/ Nate DiMeo)
Nate DiMeo, host of The Memory Palace and an expert in weaving historical narratives, joins the conversation to explore how the past can illuminate our present. He shares insightful ways to revive your sense of wonder, emphasizing curiosity as a muscle to exercise. The discussion touches on the importance of storytelling in connecting with history and finding meaning in everyday life. Nate also highlights the pitfalls of algorithm-driven experiences and encourages listeners to embrace diverse perspectives to enrich their creativity.
23 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 35min
Power, purpose, and the American presidency with Jared Cohen | from ReThinking with Adam Grant
Jared Cohen, a historian and businessman, explores life after power in his book "Life After Power." He delves into the fascinating journeys of former presidents, discussing their emotional struggles and transformations post-presidency. The conversation highlights how leaders can find renewed purpose and redefine their identities after leaving the Oval Office. Cohen also shares insights on the psychology of the founding fathers, the implications of pursuing legacy, and the importance of focused connections in leadership roles.
53 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 41min
How to stop being weird about money (w/ Paco de Leon)
Paco de Leon, a financial planner and author of "Finance for the People," shares her expertise on transforming the awkwardness surrounding money, particularly for artists and freelancers. She explains how reframing the narrative from "money corrupts" to "money empowers creativity" can unleash artistic potential. Paco offers practical tips on pricing strategies, valuing one’s unique skills, and fostering more open discussions about finances, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace financial literacy as a pathway to greater confidence and freedom.
117 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 40min
How to make the most of a finite life (w/ Oliver Burkeman)
Oliver Burkeman, a journalist and author known for "Four Thousand Weeks" and "Meditations for Mortals," discusses the limitations of time in our lives. He explores the paradox that true change comes from accepting our inability to control everything. Oliver emphasizes how disasters can become cherished memories, and highlights the importance of sharing our imperfections as acts of generosity. The conversation dives into finding balance between productivity and authenticity while embracing life's uncertainties to foster deeper connections and personal growth.
27 snips
Jan 27, 2025 • 40min
How to believe in God even when the world sucks (w/ Nadia Bolz-Weber)
Nadia Bolz-Weber, a New York Times bestselling author and ordained Lutheran pastor, dives into the heart of faith amidst adversity. She shares her journey from rigid upbringing to an inclusive spiritual community, emphasizing authenticity and connection in leadership. The conversation explores maintaining belief during tough times, the beauty of low expectations, and embracing personal imperfections. Nadia also discusses the impact of differing religious beliefs in families and the importance of compassion and humor in navigating spirituality.
8 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 31min
How to turn climate anxiety into action (w/ Luisa Neubauer) (re-release)
Luisa Neubauer, a prominent climate activist and leader of the Fridays for Future movement, discusses the pressing need for systemic change in combating climate anxiety. She emphasizes the power of collective action and personal responsibility, inspiring listeners to unite for a sustainable future. Luisa shares her journey into activism and addresses how the pandemic transformed climate efforts into digital organizing. Moreover, she encourages turning feelings of despair into proactive community measures, highlighting the resilience of younger generations.
72 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 38min
Throwing good parties and building community (w/ Priya Parker)
Priya Parker, author of "The Art of Gathering" and a renowned expert on building community, shares insights on hosting unforgettable events. She emphasizes the importance of rituals in enhancing gatherings and fostering meaningful connections. Priya discusses how thoughtful planning can transform social interactions and strengthen community ties. The conversation highlights the value of choosing the right people for our gatherings, as well as the unique strengths introverts bring to hosting, ensuring deeper connections for all guests.
155 snips
Jan 6, 2025 • 35min
How changing your story can change your life (w/ Lori Gottlieb) (re-release)
Lori Gottlieb, a therapist and bestselling author of "Maybe You Should Talk to Someone," shares her insights on the narratives we create about ourselves. She highlights the transformative power of storytelling and the need to recognize our inner unreliable narrators. Relationships, she argues, should be viewed as a dance focused on personal growth rather than changing others. Gottlieb also emphasizes the importance of finding the right therapist to help edit our life stories, encouraging listeners to embrace change for true happiness.
