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
7 snips
Oct 21, 2024 • 40min
How to reclaim your cringe
Join Dave Nadelberg and Neil Katcher, co-founders of Mortified, as they dive into the hilarity of cringe-worthy moments from their youth. They explore how sharing embarrassing stories can transform shame into laughter, empowering others to embrace their awkward pasts. Expect laughs as they recount quirky teenage anecdotes and discuss the universal struggles of adolescence, including awkward flirtations and the challenges of parenting teens. Find out how vulnerability can spark connection and humor in our shared human experience.
29 snips
Oct 14, 2024 • 37min
Why you should make a spectacle out of life (w/ Lear deBessonet)
Lear deBessonet, an award-winning theater director and founder of the Public Works program, passionately advocates for embracing spectacle in our everyday lives. She discusses the transformative power of public art in fostering community connections and enhancing personal perceptions. Lear also shares her unique experiences, including her humorous rejections by ‘the San Diego chicken.’ Through her insights, listeners are encouraged to observe life creatively and seek wonder in the ordinary, highlighting art’s resilience and impact on the human spirit.
5 snips
Oct 7, 2024 • 34min
How to let go of needing a plan (w/ Reggie Watts)
Reggie Watts, a celebrated improviser, comedian, and musician, dives into the art of spontaneity. He emphasizes the importance of paying attention to yourself and finding joy in the everyday absurdities. The conversation explores how embracing creativity can transform challenges and ignite authentic expression. Watts shares insights on his comedy special 'Nevermind,' where nostalgia meets humor, and highlights improvisation as a tool for connection. His infectious enthusiasm encourages listeners to let go of rigid plans and embrace the unexpected.
10 snips
Sep 30, 2024 • 35min
Why solving global issues is more accessible than we think (w/ Angeline Murimirwa)
In this conversation, Angeline Murimirwa, CEO of Camfed and a passionate advocate for girls' education, shares her inspiring journey from a girl facing educational barriers in Zimbabwe to leading a pan-African movement. She discusses how education can be a straightforward solution to complex global issues, emphasizing the importance of community support and lived experiences. Angie also highlights the transformative impact of collective action and the role of empathy in addressing systemic challenges, all while embracing joy and resilience in the face of adversity.
10 snips
Sep 23, 2024 • 37min
Why is talking about money and class so awkward?! (w/ Jonathan Menjivar)
In a candid discussion, Jonathan Menjivar, a public radio producer and host of the podcast "Classy," dives into the social awkwardness around talking about money and class. He reveals why we often shy away from discussing our salaries and the role of class anxiety in our daily lives. The conversation unpacks how wealth shapes identities and the misrepresentation of financial realities. Jonathan shares personal stories about navigating privilege and encourages listeners to foster open dialogues about socioeconomic disparities.
58 snips
Sep 16, 2024 • 35min
How to approach the daunting question: who am I? (w/ Brian Lowery)
In this insightful discussion, Brian Lowery, a Stanford Professor and author of "Selfless: The Social Creation of You," delves into the complexities of identity. He explores how our self-view is shaped by societal interactions rather than being a fixed essence. The conversation highlights the performance of identity and how perceptions shift based on our audience. Lowery emphasizes the importance of meaningful connections and shared experiences in the ongoing journey of self-discovery, challenging listeners to reflect on the relational aspects of who they truly are.
11 snips
Sep 9, 2024 • 43min
How peace can persevere (w/ Aziz Abu Sarah)
Aziz Abu Sarah, a Palestinian author, peacemaker, and entrepreneur, shares his journey towards peace after experiencing trauma. He believes in the power of travel to foster empathy and understanding between conflicting communities. Aziz emphasizes the importance of shifting from anger to forgiveness, highlighting personal anecdotes that illustrate reconciliation amidst loss. The discussion also explores bridging divides through storytelling, addressing sensitive dialogues, and promoting compassion as essential tools in conflict resolution.
12 snips
Sep 2, 2024 • 20min
How labor unions shape society
In this engaging discussion, political economist Margaret Levi highlights the critical role of labor unions in shaping modern society. She emphasizes their contributions to worker rights, weekends, and social programs like Social Security. Levi discusses the decline of unions and its consequences for economic equality and the middle class. She advocates for a revival of the labor movement, urging innovative approaches to meet the needs of today's workforce and build solidarity across different sectors for a more equitable future.
23 snips
Aug 26, 2024 • 37min
How to be less cynical (w/ Jamil Zaki)
Jamil Zaki, a psychology professor at Stanford and author of "Hope for Cynics," brings wit and insight to the conversation. He challenges the notion that empathy is an inherent trait, arguing instead that it can be cultivated. The discussion tackles the power of positive gossip and highlights ways to normalize compliments. Zaki encourages listeners to embrace hope amidst cynicism, showing how a collective focus on empathy can uplift group morale and reshape our perceptions of human nature.
14 snips
Aug 19, 2024 • 35min
How to be an adult - and how to raise one (w/ Julie Lythcott-Haims) (re-release)
Julie Lythcott-Haims, a New York Times bestselling author and former Stanford Dean of Freshmen, dives into redefining success and adulthood. She advocates for nurturing individuality in children, likening them to wildflowers, and urges parents to foster independence. Lythcott-Haims discusses the societal pressures young adults face today, emphasizing resilience and personal agency. With a focus on authentic living, she encourages young people to seek fulfillment over societal expectations, sharing her own journey of vulnerability and identity.
