The Being Human Podcast

Amelia and Jez explore the human voice. With Heather Hanson, an expert in global communication, they explore the power of voice and accent in shaping identity and status. Heather shines a light on accent bias and how it persists both socially and professionally, and the price we pay as a result. The notion of 'good' and 'bad' English is challenged, and the case for more inclusivity in how we perceive and value different accents is made. The conversation delves into practical strategies for individuals to make their voices heard in the workplace and beyond, and for leaders to create more inclusive communication cultures. Heather's insights reveal how deeply ingrained accent biases are and the importance of self-awareness in overcoming them, ultimately emphasising that being human means communicating and connecting with others, regardless of how we sound.

Amelia and Jez explore journeys with award-winning writer Oliver Smith. In his book "On This Holy Island," Oli reimagines pilgrimage beyond traditional contexts, by retracing routes across time; from murmurs of ritual journeys in the depths of the Ice Age, to 21st century treks to football stadiums and music festivals. The conversation explores the resurgence of routes like the Camino de Santiago and the personal growth that can come from stepping out of one's comfort zone. Oli’s perspective offers a fresh take on finding meaning and connection with others in an increasingly digital world through intentional travel and embracing new experiences. Amelia shares a story of culinary surprises in Barcelona, and Jez gets distracted by a man changing a billboard poster.

Amelia and Jez revisit the topic of creativity with author and speaker, Fredrik Haren. Drawing from his experiences interviewing thousands of people across 75 countries, Fredrik shares insights on the universal nature of creativity and its role in making us human. He discusses the importance of being a "creativator", someone who unlocks creative potential in others, and offers practical advice for nurturing creativity in everyday life. Fredrik's stories about Spanish sculptors, Mongolian nomads, and Afghan painters illustrate the myriad ways creativity manifests across cultures, the balance between confidence and humility in creative pursuits, and the value of learning from diverse perspectives. Fredrik believes everyone’s creativity is different, a shared human trait and yet a uniquely personal experience, which makes Jez feel good about fixing a loo seat, and the “mend thrill” he experienced in doing so.Fredrik Haren shares insights from his upcoming book The World of Creativity, a global exploration of how creativity is expressed and experienced across 37 countries. Drawing from in-depth conversations with creative minds around the world, the book offers a rare perspective on the universal and diverse nature of creativity. The World of Creativity is now available for pre-order on Amazon: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1907312897

Amelia and Jez explore the subject of education. They are joined by Lisette Rinke de Wit, education professional and status quo squasher, who shares her passion for creating equal opportunities through education. Drawing from her global teaching experience, Lisette discusses the transformative power of the International Baccalaureate (IB) system in disadvantaged areas. She challenges conventional education methods, advocating for conceptual learning and global citizenship. The conversation explores the resistance to change in education systems and highlights success stories of schools and communities transformed by this innovative approach. Lisette's vision of "human becoming" through education offers a thought-provoking perspective on nurturing the next generation of global citizens.

Amelia and Jez are joined by Todd Kashdan, professor of psychology at George Mason University, to explore the power of curiosity. They discuss how a willingness to learn more can enhance relationships, help problem-solving, and boost overall life satisfaction. Todd offers practical strategies for increasing curiosity in daily life, such as finding interest in seemingly boring activities (which Jez took as scientific endorsement of Boring Things About Me). The conversation delves into the neuroscience of curiosity, its role in reducing polarisation, and its importance in both personal and professional contexts. Todd's insights provide a fresh perspective on how embracing uncertainty and asking thoughtful questions can lead to a more fulfilling and connected life.

Amelia and Jez delve into the subject of movement. How does movement help us process our emotions? How does movement bring people together and foster a sense of belonging and togetherness? And how can we get more movement into our everyday lives? They are joined by Gemma Louise, a creative artist and company director, to discuss the transformative power of movement and dance in fostering community, improving mental health, and boosting creativity. Gemma openly shares her personal experiences, practical tips and scientific insights for listeners to harness the benefits of movement in their lives. Gemma even manages to guide Amelia and Jez through a simple stretching and breathing exercise during the conversation!

Amy Elizabeth Fox, co-founder and CEO of Mobius Executive Leadership, and Jeremy Sturt, co-founder of Just Add Water, join Amelia to explore transformative approaches to leadership development. Amy shares stories about her life; from environmental activism and a need to understand how unaddressed trauma was preventing the shift in consciousness needed to respond effectively to big challenges humanity faces, to her innovative leadership programmes which connect intellectual models with spiritual awakening to develop the leaders the world needs now. Amy and Jeremy explore their shared mission of humanising the workplace by creating more vital, inspired organisational cultures.To find out more about Amy and the brilliant work she is doing at Mobius Executive Leadership, please click here for Amy's website, click here for Mobius Executive Leadership's website, and click here for Amy's article compilation titled, Love and Healing in Business: A Trauma Informed Journal.

Amelia and Jez explore stoicism and its application in modern life. How well do we know ourselves? What is a good life? And what should we focus on? With behavioural change expert and executive coach, Rodrigo Barreto, they learn about the four virtues of stoicism; courage, wisdom, justice, and temperance; and how they can help navigate personal and professional challenges. Rodrigo offers insights on balancing ambition with contentment, the importance of self-knowledge, and challenges conventional notions of success, encouraging listeners to focus on what they can control to find a fresh perspective on purpose and resilience in today's fast-paced world.