Podcast Humanism Now | Secular Ethics, Curiosity and Compassionate Change by Humanise Live Episodes

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	Title	Pub. Date	Duration
	Introducing Freedom of Thought by Humanists International	01 Mar 2026	00:21:37
SUBSCRIBE TO FREEDOM OF THOUGHT: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music Podcast Addict YouTube All other podcast platforms ******** Sign up for the Humanists International Newsletter Welcome to Freedom of Thought a new podcast series by Humanists International! In this first episode hosts Gary McLellend and Leon Langdon introduce Humanists International, the global representative body at the heart of the humanist movement, how a global humanist network works inside the UN system, and why universal rights need a louder defence right now. We share the member‑led model, lessons from the IRF Summit, and what really happens inside the UN Human Rights Council. In this first episode we cover: The formation and ethos of Humanists International Our member‑led structure and global reach Lived experience informing advocacy Reflections on the 2026 IRF Summit Fractures in human rights spaces and how to address them What happens inside the Human Rights Council Why start this podcast now and what comes next Why attend the World Humanist Congress 2026 How to shape the conversation, support us and follow Follow Humanist International Support Humanists International About - Humanists International Join us at the World Humanists Congress 2026 Freedom of Thought is produced by Humanise Live 🎶Music: Horizon by Simon Folwar Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	66. Fish Stark on How The AHA Is Building a Humanist Revival In America	22 Feb 2026	00:49:38
"If science tells you what's real and compassion tells you what's right, you're a humanist" - Fish Stark Fish Stark, Executive Director of the American Humanist Association (AHA), joins Humanism Now to unpack what a modern humanist revival could look like in the United States. From creator-led storytelling to legal strategy and mutual aid, Fish shares how the AHA is building power, community, and a clearer public-facing vision of humanism rooted in empathy, agency, and responsibility. Connect with Fish Stark Personal Website – fishstark.com AHA Speakers Bureau LinkedIn Topics we cover Why Fish believes the moment is right for a “humanist revival” in America Humanism as identity, not just ideas: agency, responsibility, and moral confidence What the AHA actually does: community-building, lobbying, legal action, and public narrative Why the real arena is online, and how the AHA is backing creators to meet people where they are Church-state separation under pressure, and how coercion shows up in schools and public life Humanist chaplaincy and “parallel place” legal recognition as a strategic advantage The American Empathy Project and why mutual aid is humanism in practice What comedy teaches about organising: pacing, attention, clarity, and joy Resources & further reading Humanist Manifesto I – American Humanist Association (1933) – https://americanhumanist.org/what-is-humanism/manifesto1/ Peace First – https://peacefirst.org/ Born This Way Foundation – https://bornthisway.foundation/ The Good Place – https://www.nbc.com/the-good-place Person-centered therapy (Carl Rogers) overview – NCBI Bookshelf / StatPearls (2023) – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK589708/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	57. Will Gervais on the Origins of Religion, Disbelief, and Morality	14 Dec 2025	00:39:09
“Humans didn’t evolve to believe in gods — we evolved to learn from culture, and sometimes culture points away from gods.” Dr Will M. Gervais, psychologist and author of Disbelief, joins Humanism Now to examine one of the most persistent puzzles in the study of religion: why a species capable of deep religiosity also produces millions of convinced non-believers. Drawing on cultural evolution, cognitive science, and cross-cultural data, Will shows why belief and disbelief are shaped less by raw rationality than by social signals, security, and learning environments. Contact & resources; Website – http://willgervais.com/ University profile – https://www.brunel.ac.uk/people/will-gervais ResearchGate – https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Will-M-Gervais-16312567 Disbelief – Gervais (2023) – https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/Disbelief-by-Will-M-Gervais/9781633889248 Topics we cover • Why humans evolved a capacity for religion, not a destiny to believe • The twin puzzles of belief and disbelief explained scientifically • Why comfort-based and “God-spot” theories fall short • Cultural signals, credible displays, and how communities transmit belief • Why atheism often emerges where signals are mixed or muted • Weak and fragile links between analytic thinking and non-belief • Moral distrust of atheists — and what behavioural data actually show • Differences in moral style rather than moral behaviour • Agnosticism as a distinct epistemic position, not a midpoint • Existential security and why stable societies secularise • Cultural evolution and the “big gods” hypothesis • Why scientific self-correction matters more than tribal loyalty Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	56. Indian Rationalism to Global Humanist Resistance - Alavari Jeevathol on Duty, Dialogue & Youth Power	30 Nov 2025	00:50:13
“Activism is the rent we pay to live on this world.” Alavari Jeevathol AJ board member of Humanists International, founding trustee of the National Multifaith Youth Centre, and National Coordinator of Young Humanists UK — returns to Humanism Now to explore a humanism shaped by South Indian pluralism, UK youth organising, and a lifelong commitment to duty, solidarity, and awe. This conversation traces India’s rationalist heritage, the case for humanistic spirituality, and why resistance must be global, hopeful, and rooted in material realities. Connect with AJ Website – alavari.info Instagram – @alavarij Facebook – @alavari X (Twitter) – @alavarij LinkedIn – in/alavari/ TikTok – @alavarij Young Humanists UK National Multifaith Youth Centre Resources & further reading Disenchanting India: Rationalist Criticism and Cultural Politics – Quack (2012) Humanist Society Scotland Statement on Palestine & Israel (2023) AJ's events & talks Humanists UK Event: “India’s Rationalist Heritage” CLH Discussions \| Gaza: genocide, ceasefire, and future prospects CLH Talk: Roots of Rationalism in India - Origins of Humanism Series Humanists International World Humanist Congress 2026 Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	55. Sarah Levin on Secular Strategies to Mobilise Coalitions Defending Church–State Separation	23 Nov 2025	00:52:00
“We will lose a lot before we win — that’s just the reality of starting the race 50 years behind.” — Sarah M. Levin Sarah M. Levin - strategist, lobbyist, founder of Secular Strategies and co-founder of The Secular Vote, joins us to explore how secular voters are reshaping U.S. politics. She breaks down the real demographics behind the “nones,” why neutrality protects both believers and non-believers, and how church–state separation is at the heart of today’s fights over rights, democracy, and pluralism. Connect with Sarah: Website: sarahmlevin.com Secular Strategies: secularstrategies.com The Secular Vote: hesecularvote.com X (Twitter): @SarahMLevin LinkedIn: sarahmlevin Topics we cover ✔︎ Why Secular Strategies exists ✔︎ “Unaffiliated” vs “atheist”: what the data really shows ✔︎ Secularism in law and public life ✔︎ Media myths about religious “revivals” ✔︎ Connecting secular voters with messages that resonate (one life, one world) ✔︎ How Christian nationalism drives today’s policy rollbacks ✔︎ Relationship-led coalition building across deep differences ✔︎ Inside The Secular Vote: correcting media blind spots ✔︎ Debunking the “anti-Christian bias” narrative ✔︎ State-level wins: transparency for healthcare sharing ministries ✔︎ Practical ways to get involved for the long term Resources & further reading “Religious ‘Nones’ in America: Who They Are and What They Believe,” Pew Research Center (2024) – https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2024/01/24/religious-nones-in-america-who-they-are-and-what-they-believe/ Presidential Action on “Eradicating Anti-Christian Bias” – The White House (2025) – https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/02/eradicating-anti-christian-bias/ Religious Liberty Commission – U.S. Department of Justice – https://www.justice.go Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	54. Nursing the Nation Hosts on Why Nurses Belong At The Centre Of Public Debate About Health, Policy and Human Dignity	15 Nov 2025	00:43:23
“Nursing is the most humanistic of professions — it operationalises the philosophical groundings of humanism.” — Jamie Bourgeois “Nurses have 24/7 eyes on the human experience — we see how policy shows up in real people’s lives.” — Melissa Anne DuBois Jamie Bourgeois and Melissa Anne DuBois are the co-hosts of Nursing the Nation — a podcast giving nurses a national voice in debates that shape health, policy, and our daily lives. Together they explore how an ethic of evidence and empathy can challenge wellness hype, inform better policy, and centre human dignity in every decision that touches a patient’s life. In this episode Melissa & Jamie discuss the historical erasure of women healers to today’s media blind spots — and what happens when they’re finally heard. They reveal how nursing science quietly powers trauma-informed practice, safer hospitals, and better education. Join us to hear how nurses bridge the gap between policy and people and why the world’s most trusted profession must lead public conversations. Connect with Jamie Bourgeois & Melissa Anne Dubois Blog – nursingthenation.substack.com Podcast Links – Nursing the Nation Instagram – @nursing.the.nation LinkedIn – Melissa Anne Dubois Research – ORCID \| ResearchGate Writing – Writers Camp Resources & further reading Witches, Midwives & Nurses: A History of Women Healers – Barbara Ehrenreich (1973) Ann Burgess – pioneer of forensic nursing, Wikipedia Clara Barton & the Geneva Convention – Library of Congress Blog Florence Nightingale and Data Visualisation Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	Introducing Sentientist Conversations: Jamie Woodhouse discusses Animal Morality with Frans de Waal	08 Nov 2025	00:52:58
This week we bring we are delighted to share the a guest episode from Sentientist Conversations, a podcast hosted by Jamie Woodhouse (Humanism Now Episode 4). In this episode, Jamie speaks with legendary primatologist Frans de Waal. Follow Sentientism Sentientism.info Apple Spotify YouTube “You cannot go wrong with compassion” – primatologist Frans de Waal – Sentientist Conversations Frans (fransdewaal.com) is a primatologist & ethologist. He is Professor of Primate Behavior at Emory University, director of the Living Links Center at Emory & the author of many books including “Chimpanzee Politics”, “Our Inner Ape” & “The Bonobo & the Atheist”. He has featured in TV/radio productions & TED talks viewed by tens of millions of people. His research centers on primate social behavior, including conflict resolution, cooperation, inequity aversion, & food-sharing. He is a member of the United States National Academy of Sciences & the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts & Sciences. In Sentientist Conversations we talk about the two most important questions: “what’s real?” & “what matters?” Sentientism is “evidence, reason & compassion for all sentient beings.” The audio is on our Podcast here on Apple and here on the other platforms. You can watch the video here. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	Introducing The Secular Sankofa Podcast - Reclaiming African Identity Through Secular Humanism	27 Oct 2025	00:32:07
This week we bring we are delighted to share the first episode of The Secular Sankofa Podcast, from the Association of Black Humanists. Subscribe to The Secular Sankofa wherever you get your podcasts! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Podcast Index Overcast Podcast Addict Goodpods All other directories & RSS Feed If you enjoy the show, please follow, rate, and review. ***** "We believe in people, not prophets, we believe in freedom, not fear, and we believe in integrity, not doctrine" - Audrey Simmons, Podcast Host The Secular Sankofa podcast is a platform for Black humanists to reconnect with African identity and heritage through a secular lens. The hosts introduce the Association of Black Humanists, its mission, and vision for creating a space where Black people can explore humanism without religious dogma. Stay connected with the Association of Black Humanists: Meetup: association-of-black-humanist Facebook: @AssociationBlackHumanists Instagram: @abhumanists X / Twitter: @abhumanists YouTube: Association of Black Humanists TikTok: @assoc_of_black_humanists Learn more about our work and community at abhumanists.org Music: Icy by Jeff Kaale Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	53. David B McLaughlin on Five Humanistic Values for Living Well	19 Oct 2025	00:34:23
“Human dignity is really the foundation for reasoned morality — there’s nothing we can do to increase it or decrease it. Even the worst people still deserve it simply because they’re human.” - David B. McLaughlin David B. McLaughlin, leadership coach and author of Humanism: Five Values for Living Well, joins us to map a practical, hopeful framework for meaning without dogma. From life in the U.S. Bible Belt to boardrooms wrestling with equity, we explore how meaning, dignity, reason, compassion, and justice work together to guide everyday choices and systemic change. Connect with David B. McLaughlin Website – pendulumcoaching.com Newsletter – exploringhumanism.substack.com LinkedIn – www.linkedin.com/in/davidbmc Topics we cover Dignity as a moral floor you can’t earn or revoke Spotting dehumanisation and resisting it The Pillar Model of meaning Rituals beyond religion: building habits that anchor values Reason + compassion: escaping autopilot and widening concern Justice at work: equity, fair policies, and psychological safety Seeing hidden power: systemic awareness for better decisions The “reverse wager of humanism”: urgency to do tangible good now Resources & further reading Humanism: Five Values for Living Well – David B. McLaughlin – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Humanism-Five-Values-Living-Well/dp/B0FNRP5GKR Pendulum Coaching Podcast – Conversations on modern leadership – https://www.pendulumcoaching.com/podcast “Pale Blue Dot,” Voyager 1 image & essay – background on Sagan’s perspective – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pale_Blue_Dot Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	52. Michael Marshall on Compassionate Skepticism: Empowering Critical Thinking, Beyond Being Right	12 Oct 2025	00:45:08
“Being a skeptic doesn’t make me smarter or infallible—it just means I’m trying to fail slightly less often.” Michael Marshall has spent more than 15 years investigating pseudoscience, conspiracy theories and the psychology that sustains them. As Project Director of the Good Thinking Society, President of the Merseyside Skeptics Society and Editor of The Skeptic, Marsh has gone undercover at flat-earth conventions, exposed fake psychics, and campaigned successfully to end NHS funding for homeopathy. In this conversation, he explores how “compassionate skepticism”, leading with empathy and curiosity rather than confrontation can help us counter misinformation and connect more deeply with one another. Connect with Michael X – @MrMMarsh Skeptics with a K Podcast The Know Rogan podcast QED Conference Topics we cover ✔︎ Skepticism as practice, not a badge of superiority ✔︎ The ethics of “compassionate skepticism” ✔︎ How pseudoscience harms—and why empathy works better than ridicule ✔︎ What Flat Earth believers reveal about human psychology ✔︎ The legacy of QED and building communities grounded in reason Resources & further reading The Skeptic – Marshall’s author archive: skeptic.org.uk/author/michael Wikipedia – Michael Marshall (skeptic) Skeptical Inquirer interview: “Marsh Interview” BBC News – “NHS homeopathy funding to end”: bbc.co.uk/news/health-43373817 The Guardian – “The Universe is an Egg and the Moon Isn’t Real”: Read article PBS Independent Lens – Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	51. Maggie Ardiente, President of Humanists International on Spreading Joy in the One Life We Have	05 Oct 2025	00:38:14
"Another form of resistance is joy.” Maggie Ardiente, newly elected President of Humanists International, joins Humanism Now to share how humanism grounded in curiosity, compassion, and community can meet today’s rising threats to democracy and science. From a Catholic upbringing to global leadership, Maggie lays out a practical, joyful vision: build resilient humanist networks and live our values in the one life we know we have. Connect with Maggie: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/maggieardiente/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggieardiente/ Topics we cover Building humanist community: from campus groups to a global movement Why labels and groups matter for the non-religious Humanism in public life: defending democracy, science, and human rights Joy as resistance: living well as a humanist practice Practical ways to start or grow a local humanist group Misconceptions about “humanism” in the United States Leadership skills for secular nonprofits (fundraising, empathy, voice) Supporting humanists at risk—especially across the Global South Resources & further reading Humanists International – Global federation advancing humanist values – https://humanists.international American Humanist Association – US national org for humanists – https://americanhumanist.org Secular Coalition for America – Policy advocacy for secular Americans – https://secular.org Physicians for Social Responsibility – Health professionals for climate solutions & a nuclear-free world – https://www.psr.org Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	50. Andrew Copson on Why Humanism Remains Essential in an Age of Extremism, 20 Years of Human Rights Campaigning	21 Sep 2025	00:51:10
“No one ever said it was going to be easy. Humanists don’t think a better world is inevitable—we think a better world is possible, but we have to work for it.” Andrew Copson OBE, Chief Executive of Humanists UK and former President of Humanists International, joins us for our 50th episode to reflect on two decades of humanist leadership. From growing up in a secular working-class community to championing global human rights, Andrew explains why humanism remains vital in a time of rising extremism, technological disruption, and political uncertainty. Connect with Andrew Website – Humanists UK X (Twitter) – @andrewcopson LinkedIn – Andrew Copson Facebook - @mrandrewcopson Topics we cover ✔︎ Growing up secular in working-class Britain ✔︎ Why humanist organizations matter: advocacy, representarion and care ✔︎ Misconceptions about humanism today – “too anti-religious” vs. “too pro-human” ✔︎ The challenge of technology and the meaning of mortality ✔︎ Strategic engagement: when to dialogue, and when not to ✔︎ Transforming Humanists International into a diverse, global movement ✔︎ The campaign to free Mubarak Bala ✔︎ UK priorities ahead: assisted dying, curriculum reform, defending equality ✔︎ Why embracing the identity of “humanist” still matters Resources & further reading Secularism: Politics, Religion and Freedom – Copson (2017) The Wiley Blackwell Handbook of Humanism – Copson & Grayling (2015) The Little Book of Humanism Series – Copson & Roberts What I Believe – Copson (2025) What I Believe Podcast Andrew Copson’s Farewell Speech to the General Assembly, Humanists International 2025 Mubarak Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	65. CampQuest UK Returns! How Kids Camps Build Confidence, Community, and Critical Thinking	15 Feb 2026	00:30:27
“It was a very safe space to be able to say, I got that wrong.” CampQuest UK Programme Director Alistair Lichten (Humanist Dad) and camper-turned-volunteer Katy Pugh join Humanism Now to unpack why a secular camp matters, and how a weekend of outdoor adventure, hands-on science, and Philosophy for Children helps young people practise curiosity, confidence, and respectful disagreement. Discover CampQuest UK 2026 Family Camp – dates, location, pricing, booking– https://campquest.uk/2026-family-camp-pilot/ More info on Humanists UK Website Follow Alistair on the HumanistDad Blog Topics we cover ✔︎ Why CampQuest began, and what a secular camp offers that most camps do not ✔︎ How outdoor challenge makes speaking up feel less scary ✔︎ The 2026 family camp, and what the weekend format looks like ✔︎ Philosophy for Children: stimulus, question-voting, and “speaking object” rules ✔︎ Encouraging values without dogma: standards of behaviour that protect freedom of thought ✔︎ What kids actually take home: reasoning, confidence, and not taking disagreement personally ✔︎ Alumni impact, volunteer growth, and rebuilding community year to year ✔︎ Practical booking and arrival expectations for the May bank holiday camp Resources & further reading Philosophy for Children (P4C): SAPERE / Thoughtful – training and overview of the method – https://www.sapere.org.uk/ and “What is P4C?” The Ship of Theseus (identity over time): Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	49. Morgan DeNicola on the Philanthropy of Everyday Action & Dialogue Across Divides	16 Sep 2025	00:39:31
“You don’t change the world. You change the way one person views the world—and then you’ve changed the world for that person.” What if true strength lies not in certainty, but in listening with respect? In this episode, Morgan DeNicola, Executive Director of the DeNicola Family Foundation, shares how dialogue across divides, cultural diplomacy and everyday acts of humanity redefine what philanthropy can mean. From working with to fostering cross-cultural understanding worldwide, Morgan shows how compassion, curiosity and calm self-control can build bridges in even the most polarized spaces. Connect with Morgan Facebook – Morgan DeNicola Instagram – @morgan.slikerdenicola LinkedIn – Morgan DeNicola TikTok – @morganslikerdenicola Topics we cover ✔︎ The 360-degree value of diverse viewpoints ✔︎ Philanthropy as “love of humanity” beyond financial giving ✔︎ Finding common ground across ideological divides ✔︎ Diplomacy as an everyday superpower of relationship-building ✔︎ Practical mental health strategies for service-driven work ✔︎ Why self-control and calm are ultimate strengths in dialogue ✔︎ The four pillars of the DeNicola Family Foundation: conservation, world health, humanitarian recognition, cultural diplomacy Resources & further reading Humpty Dumpty Institute – Fostering dialogue with Congress, UN and global partners DeNicola Family Foundation – Supporting world health, conservation, diplomacy and recognition initiatives Amitofo Care Centre – Orphan and education programmes in Africa American Thoracic Society – Global conference supporting medical research in lung health Elmwood Park Zoo - Inspiring appreciation for wildlife, the environment & active participation in conservation Morgan's "Six or Nine" Cartoon T-Shirt Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	James Ogude on Ubuntu's Ethical Framework - Personhood, Co-Agency & Justice (Global Origins of Humanism Series)	10 Sep 2025	00:46:12
Ubuntu: I am because we are. 🌍✨ In this bonus episode of Humanism Now, we’re sharing the live recording of Professor James Ogude’s talk from the online event Understanding Ubuntu Traditions part of the Global Origins of Humanism series (co-hosted by Central London Humanists and the Association of Black Humanists). Prof. Ogude is a Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for the Advancement of Scholarship, University of Pretoria, and a leading authority on Ubuntu—the African ethical tradition of community, compassion and shared humanity. About the series The Global Origins of Humanism series is a new programme of online talks and discussions exploring philosophical traditions from around the world that have influenced modern humanist thought. At each event CLH & ABH welcome a leading scholar to introduce their area of expertise, followed by audience discussion. These events are free to attend online and open to everyone. Upcoming events (RSVP on Meetup to join live) Roots of Rationalism in India with Alavari “AJ” Jeevathol — Wed 17 Sept 2025, 7pm UK In Search of Zera Yacob with Dr Jonathan Egid — Wed 15 Oct 2025, 7pm UK Prof. Ogude covers; How personhood is earned through relationships and community How Ubuntu differs from Western individualism Co-agency: interconnectedness of human and non-human life Ubuntu as an ecological ethic for climate and sustainability challenges The material dimension of dignity: why justice must include economic needs Archbishop Tutu’s role in elevating Ubuntu to a universal framework for reconciliation Ubuntu as a process of becoming, not a fixed identity Selected Books by James Ogude Ubuntu and Personhood Ubuntu and the Everyday Ubuntu and the Reconstitution of Community More about the organisers Central London Humanist Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	48. David Livingstone Smith on the Psychology of Dehumanization - Roots, Rhetoric, Myths and How to Resist It	07 Sep 2025	00:51:44
“The arc of history bends towards justice only if you keep pushing it in that direction.” David Livingstone-Smith, Ph.D., award-winning author, Professor of Philosophy at the University of New England and a leading authority on dehumanization joins us to unpack how ordinary people come to see others as “less than human,” why that shift makes atrocities feel morally necessary, and what practical tools can help us resist it. His books include Less Than Human (Anisfield-Wolf Award), On Inhumanity (OUP), and Making Monsters (HUP; Joseph B. Gittler Award; Nayef Al-Rodhan Prize shortlist). Connect with David Livingstone-Smith Website – https://www.davidlivingstonesmith.com Newsletter – https://davidlivingstonesmith.substack.com/ University profile – https://www.une.edu/people/david-livingstone-smith Media – https://www.davidlivingstonesmith.com/media Topics we cover What dehumanization is: conceiving others as subhuman creatures or monsters How we hold contradictory beliefs (human and subhuman) at the same time The role of epistemic authority, leaders, “experts” and propaganda, in spreading dehumanization Why racialization often precedes full dehumanization Moral framing of mass violence as “self-defence” against monsters Economic insecurity and social fear as fertile ground for dehumanizing narratives Psychological self-defense: recognizing our manipulability What actually helps: honest historical education, dismantling racial thinking, and a robust press Resources & further reading Less Than Human: Why We Demean, Enslave, and Exterminate Others (2011) – https://www.davidlivingstonesmith.com/project-09 On Inhumanity: Dehumanization and How to Resist It (2020) – https://www.davidlivingstonesmith.com/on-inhumanity Making Monsters: The Uncanny Power of Dehumanization (2021) – https://www.davidlivingstonesm Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	47. Victoria Mattingly on The Human Side of DEI: Transforming Workplaces Through Data-Driven Inclusion	31 Aug 2025	00:37:52
“Inclusion is the behaviors that result in others feeling valued, respected, seen and heard.” Dr. Victoria Mattingly (Dr. V)—industrial-organizational psychologist, CEO & founder of Mattingly Solutions, and co-author of Inclusalytics—joins us to show how rigorous data and deeply human connection can coexist. We unpack practical, measurable ways to build cultures of belonging—at work and in communities—where people can thrive as their authentic selves. Connect with Dr. Victoria Mattingly Website – mattinglysolutions.com Instagram – @drvictoriamattingly LinkedIn – /in/vpmattingly/ Dr V.s Udemy Course: Ally Up: How to Build and Activate Ally Partnerships Dr V. on Google Scholar – https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=L9cutXEAAAA Topics we cover ✔︎ Defining inclusion with outcomes: behaviours that make others feel valued, respected, seen, and heard ✔︎ “Inclusalytics”: merging workplace inclusion with analytics to measure belonging ✔︎ Why the platinum rule (treat others as they want to be treated) surpasses the golden rule ✔︎ The difference between mentorship and sponsorship—and why sponsors accelerate equity ✔︎ How executive sponsors can empower ERGs without overstepping ✔︎ Allyship as active behavior, not identity ✔︎ Three characteristics of effective partners in allyship: self-awareness, trust, and action orientation ✔︎ Capturing positive behaviors—why we should measure allyship, not just discrimination ✔︎ Using AI and language data ethically to advance inclusion Resources & further reading Pre order: Act Like an Ally, Work With an Ally – Victoria Mattingly – Mattingly Solutions \| Kindle Inclusalytics: How DEI Leaders Use Data to Drive Their Work – Victoria Mattingly & Sertrice Grice – Amazon \| Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	46. Bill Angus on Divorcing Jesus: Finding Authentic Community Beyond the Church	24 Aug 2025	00:36:45
“If humanism is anything, it’s self-education. It’s progressing, becoming more educated, more enlightened.” - Dr Bill Angus Dr Bill Angus takes us on a provocative journey through his transition from devout evangelical Christian to secular humanist in this candid, thought-provoking conversation. After 30 years of committed faith, Angus found himself re-examining the foundations of Christianity, leading to what he calls a “divorce” from Jesus. With humour and clarity, he challenges us to rethink what religion offers – and what humanism makes possible instead. Connect with Bill & Resources: • Divorcing Jesus: Atheism for Absolute Beginners – Bill Angus (2024) – Amazon • Website – billangus.com • Bluesky – @billangus.bsky.social • Humanists New Zealand – humanist.nz Topics we cover ✔︎ Why Bill felt “divorcing Jesus” was the right metaphor for leaving faith ✔︎ Jesus as historical figure vs. fictionalised character of modern Christianity ✔︎ How religion can stunt personal growth through “instant salvation” ✔︎ Humanism as a practice of continuous learning and self-education ✔︎ Rethinking forgiveness, love, and moral values outside divine command ✔︎ Finding authentic community beyond the church ✔︎ Building strength and integrity through secular humanism ✔︎ The wide horizons of life after religion Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	45. Richard Norman on What is Humanism For?	17 Aug 2025	00:31:08
“It’s on the basis of our shared humanity that we need to try to understand the world and think about how to live in it.” Professor Richard Norman, philosopher and author of What Is Humanism For?, joins us to explore the enduring question at the heart of secular ethics. From his journey out of Christianity to his role shaping humanist thought in the UK, Richard shares why humanism matters, how it offers a coherent framework for living well, and why it must evolve to address urgent global challenges like climate change and artificial intelligence. Topics we cover ✔︎ Defining humanism in plain language for all ages ✔︎ Why naturalism underpins humanist philosophy ✔︎ Core values, cooperation, compassion, justice, as products of our social nature ✔︎ Erich Fromm’s “frame of orientation and devotion” and its relevance today ✔︎ How shared values are replacing religion as social glue ✔︎ Climate change and AI as defining issues for future humanist engagement ✔︎ The role of dialogue with religious communities in building understanding ✔︎ Avoiding stereotypes while strengthening humanist identity ✔︎ Inspiring curiosity and critical thinking through school talks Resources & references What Is Humanism For? – Richard Norman (2025) On Humanism – Richard Norman (2nd ed., 2012) Understanding Humanism – Andrew Copson, Luke Donnellan & Richard Norman (2022) Humanist Climate Action – https://humanists.uk/climate-action Humanists UK School Speakers Programme – Humanists UK https://humanists.uk/community/school-speakers The Sane Society – Erich Fromm (1955) “Values are the New Religion” – Linda Woodhead (Cadbury Lectures, University of Birmingham, 2021) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	44. Lizzi Collinge MP on Applying Humanist Values in British Politics	10 Aug 2025	00:38:17
“I believe in autonomy, I believe in choice, I believe in human freedom, and I believe in having less suffering… all of which are fundamentally humanist values.” – Lizzi Collinge MP Lizzi Collinge—Labour MP for Morecambe & Lunesdale and Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Humanist Group—shares how openly declaring “I am a humanist” now shapes her work on championing freedom, autonomy and human rights through cross-party collaboration at Westminster. Lizzi Collinge MP 🏛️ Parliament contact –Lizzi Collinge MP 𝕏 Twitter – @LizziCollinge 📸 Instagram – @lizzicollinge 👍 Facebook – @LizziCollinge Topics we cover ✔︎ Owning a humanist identity in Parliament ✔︎ Lizzi’s life experiences, values & advice for future politicians ✔︎ Putting values into action: autonomy, freedom, less suffering ✔︎ Why transparency about values builds better policy ✔︎ Assisted Dying Bill process & progress ✔︎ APPGs as engines for cross-party problem-solving ✔︎ Confronting illegal schools and protecting children’s education ✔︎ Standing up for persecuted people worldwide References Highest number of MPs ever take secular affirmation – Humanists UK Lizzi Collinge’s maiden speech (“I am a humanist”) - Hansard Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill – UK Parliament All-Party Parliamentary Humanist Group – Humanists UK Illegal Faith Schools – Humanists UK Mubarak Bala Update – Humanists International Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	43. Katherine Lacefield on Moving from Confrontation to Connection & Campaigning for Causes that Welcome Everyone	04 Aug 2025	00:36:22
"Compassion has no borders" - Katherine Lacefield Katherine Lacefield—founder of Just Be Cause Consulting—shares why swapping confrontational animal-rights tactics for compassion-first community building creates deeper, lasting change for animals, people and the planet. Connect with Katherine Website – justbecause.consulting Facebook – @JustBeCauseConsulting Instagram – @just.because.consulting TikTok – @justbecauseconsulting Threads – @just.because.consulting LinkedIn – /in/katherine-mac-donald Topics we cover ✔︎ From “I hate people” to human-centred advocacy ✔︎ Closing the values–action gap ✔︎ Why confrontation backfires—and what works instead ✔︎ One Health: linking human, animal & environmental wellbeing ✔︎ Letting go of perfectionism in activism Resources & further reading Just Be Cause Consulting – Fundraising & strategy for mission-driven orgs – www.justbecause.consulting Just Be Cause Podcast Podcast (Apple) – https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-just-be-cause-podcast/id1743692401 Podcast (Spotify) – https://open.spotify.com/show/3IKpckZtQIwrUrXL8i0IY0 WHO “One Health”- an integrated, unifying approach that aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals and ecosystems. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	42. Peruvian Association of Atheist on How Humanist Weddings, Naming & Funerals are Driving Peru's Secular Revolution	27 Jul 2025	00:35:35
“Rituals are in the roots of our humankind.” — Iván Antezana Adrián Núñez and Iván Antezana—leading organisers of the Peruvian Association of Atheists (APERAT)—reveal how their victory in the 2025 Humanist Accelerator Program is turning the dream of legally-recognised humanist ceremonies into a nationwide reality, challenging deep-rooted stigma and funding vital support for Peru’s growing secular community. Topics we cover ✔︎ Founding APERAT and its legal battles for recognition ✔︎ Why “the atheist closet” remains so deep in Peru ✔︎ Lessons from the Humanist Ceremonies Accelerator ✔︎ Designing inclusive, inter-faith-friendly ceremonies ✔︎ Building a social enterprise to fund legal and social aid ✔︎ Partnering with wedding planners and funeral homes ✔︎ Strategies for nurturing a visible humanist community The Peruvian Atheist Association (APERAT) continues to work toward a freer, more rational, and truly secular Peru. In a context of growing authoritarianism, censorship, and setbacks in fundamental rights, secular activism is more urgent than ever. APERAT invite individuals, collectives, and organizations who share these values to get in touch and, if possible, offer financial support to sustain public campaigns, events, and advocacy efforts in defence of freedom of conscience and the separation of church and state. Connect with APERAT Website – aperat.org.pe Ceremonies – ceremoniaslaicas.lat Email – contacto@aperat.org.pe Adrián Núñez, Instagram – @sobranmagufos Iván Antezana Quiroz, Instagram – @iaq66 Episode References & Resources 📘Les Couleurs de l’Humanisme – Cloutier (2009) 📺 Humanist Ceremonies Accelerator Finale – from Happy Human (Lithuania), Humanists International & Humanise Live 📺 What is a Humanist Ceremony? –Stephen Fry & Humanists UK Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	41. Bridget Shirvell on Parenting in a Climate Crisis: Teaching Kids Curiosity, Resilience & Hope	20 Jul 2025	00:32:23
“Research has found that the amount of questions kids ask dramatically decreases once they start formalized education.” – Bridget Shirvell Journalist and climate-communicator Bridget Shirvell joins Humanism Now to share a four-part roadmap—feel, love, build, act—for raising climate-resilient kids. Drawing on her new book Parenting in a Climate Crisis, she explains how families can turn eco-anxiety into everyday action, nurture curiosity, and help children transform concern into hope. Hachette Book Group Connect with Bridget Website – https://breeshirvell.com Newsletter – Raising Climate Resilient Kids -Substack Instagram– @breeshirvell LinkedIn – /in/breeshirvell Topics we cover ✔︎ Bridget’s feel-love-build-act framework for climate-conscious parenting ✔︎ Turning daily habits—into social tipping points ✔︎ Teaching stewardship through family pets without gender stereotypes ✔︎ Countering the curiosity slump that formal schooling often creates ✔︎ Balancing individual choices with systemic change & local activism ✔︎ Practical ways to ease eco-anxiety while fostering genuine hope ✔︎ Food, waste-reduction and other low-lift actions kids can lead Resources & further reading Parenting in a Climate Crisis – Bridget Shirvell (2025) Tipping point for large-scale social change – Science (2018) Parenting and the climate crisis –The Ecologist (2025) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	64. Empathy in Action: Wil Jeudy on Uniting Secular Politics	08 Feb 2026	00:27:22
“Humanism is increasing well-being and decreasing suffering for as many people as possible.” - Wil Jeudy In this episode, Wil Jeudy, a secular humanist and political organiser based in Texas, shares how empathy shaped his journey from disengaged voter to coalition-builder, why secular government protects believers and non-believers alike, and how coordinated local action can push back against Christian nationalism. Topics we cover Humanism as empathy in action and a guide for political engagement Why secular government safeguards freedom for everyone Texas as a frontline in the rise of Christian nationalism Building coalitions across secular and religious communities Turning community into political influence without burnout Resources & further reading Follow Wil on Instagram: @wil_jay3 Secular Houston – Coordinating local secular groups to amplify political impact: secularhouston.org Houston Oasis – A welcoming, community-focused secular gathering with talks and music: houstonoasis.org Secular Coalition for America – Coalition advocating for secular public policy at the federal level: secular.org Secular Texas PAC Announcement – State-level PAC supporting candidates who defend church–state separation Donate & Support the Secular Houston PAC Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	40. Nick Cooney on Going Beyond Good Intentions & the Ethical Impact of What We Leave Undone	13 Jul 2025	00:44:20
“Focusing on the positive outcomes gives you agency; you can literally see the progress happening and that keeps you moving forward.” - Nick Cooney Nick Cooney is a social entrepreneur, alternative‑protein investor, and author. He joins Humanism Now to discuss to unpack the hidden moral cost of doing nothing. Drawing on insights from his new book What We Don’t Do, Nick explains why inaction outweighs mis‑action, how to count the suffering we can prevent, and why business, capital and compassion must pull in the same direction. Topics we cover ✔︎ The four‑quadrant framework of action vs inaction ✔︎ Measuring impact: turning empathy into numbers ✔︎ Beating overwhelm with data‑driven altruism ✔︎ Alternative proteins and the end of factory farming ✔︎ Lever VC’s investment thesis & the business case for good ✔︎ Animal suffering as a neglected moral emergency ✔︎ Effective altruism, long‑termism and their critiques ✔︎ Habits that keep the “do‑more” muscle strong Connect with Nick Website – nickcooney.com LinkedIn Instagram Medium ResearchGate Resources What We Don’t Do – Nick Cooney (2025) Nick Cooney Books Change of Heart Veganomics How to Be Great at Doing Good Lever VC – global VC fund for sustainable food innovation Lever Foundation – non‑profit accelerating humane food systems The Humane League – farm‑animal advocacy organisation Good Food Institute – think‑tank for alt‑protein R&D and policy Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	39. Dr Bo Bennett on Sharpening Critical Thinking, Logical Fallacies & Persuasive Dialogue	08 Jul 2025	00:38:32
“We need to care more about believing what is true than being right and being proved right.” - Bo Bennet With outrage-bait, memes and “gotcha” clips swarming every feed, being able to think about our thinking is no longer optional. Social psychologist, entrepreneur and Positive Humanism author Dr Bo Bennett joins host James Hodgson to show why critical thinking is a life skill for everyone, not a luxury for academics. Drawing on decades spent dissecting logical fallacies (plus a generous dose of humour), Bo maps out how we can swap combativeness for curiosity—and outrage for evidence—in our daily conversations. In this episode System 1 vs System 2: knowing when to hit the cognitive brakes 25 “greatest-hits” fallacies—from appeal to authority to the straw man Aristotle’s trio of logic, emotion & character (and why emotion is only fallacious when it replaces reason) The Socratic method for lowering defences and dodging the back-fire effect “You need to care more about believing what is true than being right and being proved right.” —Bo Expertise-transfer traps: why even humanists can slip up on politics or science Handling contrarian takes on settled research: focus on the scientific process A practical habit: run emotional posts through AI for a fast, source-linked fact-check before you hit share Follow Dr Bo Bennett Website & books: bobennett.com Logical fallacy database: https://www.logicallyfallacious.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertsbennett/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bobennett7750 Resources Logically Fallacious — Dr Bo Bennett Thinking, Fast and Slow — Daniel Kahneman Enjoying the show? Please rate, review and subscribe so you never miss a conversation that moves humanism forward. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	38. Julie Pham on Mastering Curiosity as a Practice	29 Jun 2025	00:32:40
“Curiosity isn’t a trait — it’s a practice. And like any practice, we have to keep doing it even when it’s hard.” — Dr. Julie Pham In this episode of Humanism Now, we explore curiosity as a practice. Dr. Julie Pham — social scientist, community builder, and author of the bestselling 7 Forms of Respect® — joins us to unpack how curiosity, respect, and communication transform not just workplaces, but our relationships and communities. As the founder and CEO of CuriosityBased, Dr. Pham teaches leaders and teams how to embed curiosity into daily practice — through self-awareness, relationship-building, and clear communication. Drawing from her personal story and professional insight, Julie shares how our assumptions about listening, respect, and disagreement shape the way we connect and collaborate. In this episode: Why curiosity is a skill, not a trait — and how to develop it How to approach difficult conversations using the CAFA method (Context, Action, Feeling, Ask) The difference between hearing and believing — and why it matters Respect is relative: how upbringing and culture shape our communication How curiosity bridges differences — even across generational, cultural, and political divides When not to have the conversation: the two questions to ask before engaging Featured Resources: 📕 7 Forms of Respect: www.formsofrespect.com 🧠 CuriosityBased: www.curiositybased.com 🎥 TEDx TalkCuriosity as a Practice: Watch here 🎧 Curiosity at Work podcast: Listen here Follow Dr. Julie Pham: 📸 @juliephamphd on Instagram 🎵 @juliephamphd on TikTok 📸 @curiositybased on Instagram 💼 @curiositybased on TikTok 📘 CuriosityBased Facebook Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	37. Rachael Reign on Coercive Control Beyond the Home: Protecting Cult Survivors	22 Jun 2025	00:49:19
“Surviving isn’t just about leaving — it’s about learning to trust yourself again after someone else’s voice has lived in your head for years.” — Rachael Reign In this powerful episode of Humanism Now, Rachael Reign, survivor and founder of Surviving Universal UK, shares her deeply personal story of escaping spiritual abuse and coercive control and her ongoing campaign to protect others. As founder of Surviving Universal UK, Rachael supports other survivors of high-control groups and leads a growing campaign to amend Section 76 of the UK Serious Crime Act. In this episode Rachael's journey into, and out of, UCKG What draws vulnerable young people into high-control groups How unpaid labour and spiritual obedience become normalised What led Rachael to walk away and how she supports other survivors The warning signs of cultic or coercively controlling groups Where UK law falls short in protecting against coercive control outside domestic settings How we can hold abusive systems accountable The role the public and policymakers can play in driving survivor-led legal reform Surviving Universal UK 🔗Surviving Universal UK 📧 info@survivinguniversaluk.org 📸 @survivinguniversaluk 🎵 @survivinguniversaluk Contact Rachael 🌳linktr.ee 🎤Speaker bookings - Rachael Reign 📸 @Msrachaelreign Resources BBC Panorama The Guardian The Londoner Need support? If you or someone you know has been affected by the topics discussed in this episode, Faith to Faithless are here to help. Faith to Faithless Helpline (UK): 0800 448 0748 Email: Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	36. JC Candanedo on Art as Activism for Solidarity, Identity and Representation	15 Jun 2025	00:41:32
"Inclusion isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about creating a space where people feel safe enough to stay." - JC Candanedo Artist, activist, and humanist JC Candanedo shares his journey from a Catholic school in Panama to the art studios of London. His work weaves together identity, displacement, and community action, exploring how creativity can challenge injustice and build inclusive, compassionate societies. In this epsiode, JC reflects on growing up atheist in a deeply religious culture, navigating migration and marginalisation, and why the arts are one of the most powerful tools we have for social transformation. JC shares the challenges of creating welcoming spaces within the humanist community, and how diversity and solidarity must be more than just aspirations—they must be action. Key Topics Covered How JC’s atheist upbringing in Catholic Panama shaped his identity and activism Art as language: using creativity to open space for difficult but vital conversations Why Latin American and Arab/North African diasporas are "invisibilized" in UK systems The work of the Noria Collective in building solidarity among Global Majority communities How JC discovered humanism later in life—and how it changed his view of religion Practical advice for humanist groups on inclusion, outreach, and community care Follow JC 🔗 JC’s Work: jccandanedo.com 🔗 Noria Collective: wearenoria.com / 📷 @we.are.noria 🔗 Axis: axisweb.org 📣 Campaign: banconversiontherapy.com 📷 Instagram: @jccandanedo 💼 LinkedIn: jccandanedo Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	35. Lindsay de Wal on Redefining Chaplaincy & the Rise of non-religious Pastoral Care in the NHS	08 Jun 2025	00:31:16
"Transcendence is the connection with something wider; the world, the cosmos, nature, other fellow human beings, and doing good in this life"— Dr Lindsay De Wal When Dr Lindsay De Wal became the first non-religious head of chaplaincy in the NHS, she redefined what spiritual support can look like in modern healthcare. From sceptical colleagues to international media headlines, her appointment marked a turning point for inclusive pastoral care. In this powerful and personal conversation, Lindsay shares how she built a humanist framework for care grounded in deep listening, horizontal transcendence and unwavering compassion. In This Episode Why only 4% of hospital chaplaincy visits serve non-religious patients How the Netherlands became a global leader in humanist pastoral care What “horizontal transcendence” means—and why it matters in non-religious care The art of active listening and the power of silence in emotional support How to become a humanist pastoral carer—and why demand is growing fast The rise of the Non-Religious Pastoral Support Network across the NHS Follow Dr. Lindsay de Wal Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Dr.LdW UK Non‑religious Pastoral Support Network Episode References: Become a Pastoral Carer, UK Non-Religious Pastoral Support Network The Development of Non-Religious Pastoral Support in the UK, Dr David Savage History of The Netherlands Humanists Association, Humanistisch Verbond Interview with Lindsay de Wal: UK’s First Humanist NHS Chaplain on Non-Religious Pastoral Care, The Humanist Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	34. Michael Bauer on Community Services Without Religion: Practical Humanism for a Secular Future	01 Jun 2025	00:31:43
“The highest value, the most precious value we have is not peace—it’s freedom.” — Michael Bauer This week on Humanism Now, we’re joined by Michael Bauer, CEO of Germany’s Humanistische Vereinigung—a 175-year-old humanist organisation offering professional community services without religion, grounded in ethics, dignity, and freedom. From ceremony to solidarity, Bauer shows how organised humanism is more than a philosophy—it’s a movement of services, institutions, and action. Discover how practical humanism is creating a visible, inclusive, and values-driven future. We discuss: How the Humanist Association of Germany began in the 1848 and how it survived twice being banned The importance of physical infrastructure and visible presence for secular communities How humanism serves as an ethical alternative providing meaning, guidance, and community—without supernatural belief Why inclusive, values-led services matter in a plural society, and how secular support systems can serve everyone The Humanists Shelter Program and the three-year diplomatic effort to bring humanist Mubarak Bala to safety The need for political engagement, funding, and infrastructure to build influence and lasting change A powerful personal reflection on defending humanist values in times of crisis About Michael Bauer 🔗 michaelbauer.info 📰 Interview with In-sight Publishing Connect with Humanistische Vereinigung 🔗 humanistische-vereinigung.de 📷 @humanistischevereinigung 🐦 @HV_Presse 🌳 Linktree: humanistischevereinigung References: Humanists Shelter Program, Humanistische Vereinigung Cause for celebration: Mubarak Bala arrives in Germany, Humanists International Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	33. Audrey Simmons & Lola Tinubu on Keeping the Faith Out of the Classroom: Smart Move or Overreach?	26 May 2025	00:23:07
This episode was originally recorded in May 2024. "What we have in common is what is taking us forward." — Lola Tinubu In May 2024, the High Court ruled that Michaela Community School’s “prayer ban” did not unlawfully interfere with students’ rights to religious freedom. This landmark decision reaffirmed the importance of secular education in promoting social cohesion — and raised questions about how schools should handle religion in increasingly diverse societies. In this episode, Audrey Simmons and Lola Tinubu — co-leaders of the Association of Black Humanists and long-time Central London Humanists members — apply their legal and education expertise to unpack the implications of the case for humanists, educators, and advocates of a secular society. Key Topics Covered The background of Michaela Community School and its secular ethos Why the court upheld the school’s ban under Article 9 of the European Convention on Human Rights The tension between parental influence, religious identity, and student rights Why secular school environments can better accommodate diversity within religions How education must focus on shared humanity to address collective global challenges Why this ruling gives schools confidence to protect inclusive and evidence-based education Episode resources: BBC News: Michaela School: Muslim student loses prayer ban challenge Humanists UK: Humanists UK respond to Michaela School ‘prayer ban’ ruling Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	32. Alan Palmer on Finding Common Ground Through Faith Dialogues	18 May 2025	00:18:59
“If we focus so much on the 5% that divides us, we miss the 95% we already share.” — Alan Palmer Alan Palmer is the former Chair of Central London Humanists, a trustee of Humanists UK, and a long-time NHS Trust Director. With over 17 years of experience in grassroots organising, Alan shares how London’s most active humanist group grew from pub chats to public campaigns, and how dialogue, ethics, and diversity remain central to its mission. In This Episode How Central London Humanists became the UK’s largest humanist group Why participation is harder in a more secular, but less mobilised, society Lessons from pioneering Catholic-Humanist and Muslim-Humanist dialogue The power of repeating others’ views honestly in effective dialogue Working on COVID-19 triage ethics as an NHS Trust Director Why diversity, campaigning, and neutrality all matter in modern humanism Reflections on political inclusivity and unity across difference 🔗 Learn more or join a CLH event www.centrallondonhumanists.org.uk 🔗 Learn more or join The Blackham Society https://humanists.uk/join-the-blackham-society/ This episode was originally recorded in January 2024. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	31. Katherine Stewart on Money, Lies & God: How Billionaires Weaponised Religion to Undermine Democracy	07 May 2025	00:34:56
The pro-life religion we see today is a modern creation. It was created for political purposes." — Katherine Stewart Katherine Stewart is an award-winning journalist and author, who has investigated the rise of religious nationalism and its impact on democracy for over 15 years. Her work appears in The New York Times and The New Republic. She is the author of The Good News Club, The Power Worshippers, and the new release Money, Lies, and God. Key Topics Covered How the "Good News Club" exposed the stealth strategies of religious nationalists. The roots of Christian nationalism and its alliance with billionaires. Why abortion became a political weapon, not a religious crusade. How authoritarian leaders use religion to shield power globally. What gives hope — and how to fight back against democratic erosion. Follow Katherine Stewart Website The Power Worshippers The Good News Club Money, Lies, and God (Pre-order now) Bluesky Social Twitter/X Resources Mentioned Christians Against Christian Nationalism Vote Common Good God & Country documentary (based on The Power Worshippers) 🙏 Support Humanism Now! Love what we do? Become a sponsor or supporter via Patreon and help us keep bringing thoughtful conversations to life. Every pledge helps. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	63. Powering A Humane Future with Zion Lights	01 Feb 2026	00:43:27
“I changed my mind because I cared about alleviating energy poverty.” Order now: Energy is Life: Why Environmentalism Went Nuclear, by Zion Lights Amazon Guardian Bookshop Natural History Book Service Zion Lights is an award-winning science communicator and environmental advocate whose work sits at the intersection of energy, climate, and public understanding of science. In this conversation, Zion shares her journey from prominent renewable-only activism to evidence-led support for a broader clean energy mix, and why energy abundance matters for health, dignity, and human progress. Connect with Zion Website – zionlights.co.uk Newsletter –substack.com/@zionlights1 Topics we cover How Zion’s views shifted after revisiting the evidence on nuclear risk, safety, and climate mitigation Why “clean energy” beats “renewables-only,” and what grid reality means for net zero pathways Energy poverty, global fairness, and what reliable power enables for health systems and development SMRs, fusion, and what is realistic now versus what is still “next decade” tech Resources & further reading “Could we even ‘just stop oil’?” – The Holyoake Lecture 2023, with Zion Lights (video) Global Warming of 1.5°C (SR15) – Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (2018) Death rates per unit of electricity production – Our World in Data What are the safest and cleanest sources of energy? – Our World in Data Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	30. S.I. Martin on Uncovering Britain's Hidden Histories & the Power of Storytelling	13 Apr 2025	00:29:46
"Isn't it true that we are the stories we tell ourselves?" — S.I. Martin This week on Humanism Now, we’re joined by S.I. Martin—historian, author, and patron of Humanists UK—whose work has reshaped how we understand Black British history and the power of storytelling. From his upbringing in a religious family in Bedford to decades spent uncovering erased narratives, Steve shares how early exposure to music, books, and doubt led him to scepticism and ultimately humanism. We discuss: The importance of embedding Black British history into everyday landscapes and classrooms Robert Wedderburn, revolutionary preacher and free thinker Unique challenges faced by Black atheists in religious communities How historical fiction can reshape cultural imagination and offer new identities Why humanist groups must evolve to become more inclusive, especially for younger generations The hidden social history of Black-owned pubs in 18th- and 19th-century London Explore S.I. Martin’s work: 🌐simartin.org.uk 📖 Books by S.I. Martin ❌ @simartin on X 📺 A History of Black Freethought (Humanists UK Convention 2023) 📺 The Beliefs of Black Georgians (Humanist Heritage) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	29. Faith to Faithless on Finding Community after Leaving High-Control Groups (part of Podcastathon 2025)	30 Mar 2025	00:45:16
This special episode of Humanism Now is released as part of Podcastathon 2025, the world’s largest podcast charity initiative. We’re proud to dedicate this episode to Faith to Faithless, a programme by Humanists UK supporting those leaving high-control religious groups. Three incredible guests—George, Leena, and Sarah—share raw, courageous accounts of their journeys out of fundamentalist religions and the new communities they're helping to build. Faith to Faithless is proudly marking its 10th anniversary in 2025, celebrating a decade of support, solidarity, and advocacy for apostates. ⭐ Episode Highlights Life inside high-control religious groups The emotional toll of shunning and "thought crimes" How Faith to Faithless supports apostates across the UK Starting new peer groups and reclaiming lost experiences Why public services and mental health professionals must understand apostasy better 📺 Introducing Faith to Faithless \| Helping people leaving high-control religious groups (2 mins) Need support? If you or someone you know has been affected by the topics discussed in this episode, Faith to Faithless are here to help. Faith to Faithless Helpline (UK): 0800 448 0748 📞Opening hours (Wed 10am–1pm, Thu 4pm–7pm, Fri 8am–11am) 📧 Email: helpline@faithtofaithless.com 🌐 More info: www.faithtofaithless.com ****** Also mentioned in this episode: Recovering from Religion offers peer and professional support offering hope, healing, and support to those struggling with issues of doubt and non-belief. Contact RFR here. ****** Podcastathon is the world’s largest podcast charity initiative — a global wave of inspiring episodes released simultaneously by podcasters everywhere, all in support of causes they care about. The aim? To raise awareness for hundreds of charities by uniting storytellers in one powerful, coordinated moment each March. 🎧 Be part of the movement: podcasthon.org/register Let’s amplify stories that matter. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	28. Susie Alegre on the Algorithmic Assault on Human Rights: How AI Threatens Our Core Freedoms	09 Mar 2025	00:40:09
AI technologies pose significant threats to fundamental human rights, reinforcing historical biases and power imbalances. This week, we are joined by Susie Alegre, international human rights lawyer and author, to explore the impact of generative AI on gender and racial equality, labour markets, and information ecosystems. Susie has worked for international NGOs like Amnesty International and organisations including the UN, the EU and the Council of Europe. Susie has published two books covering the critical issue or technology's impact on human rights; “Freedom to Think” (2022) was a Financial Times Technology Book of the Year 2022 and shortlisted for the Royal Society of Literature Christopher Bland Prize 2023 and “Human Rights, Robot Wrongs: Being Human in the Age of AI” published in 2024. The episode covers; How AI systems, like ChatGPT, perpetuate gender and racial biases The "Pygmalion" pattern in AI design Potential longterm effects on skills, education and social interactions The rise of "ultra-processed information" and its consequences for the internet Legal risks and the role of effective regulation Enforcement in addressing AI's human rights risks When AI applications may be valuable—and when they are not 📅 To learn more about Susie Alegre’s work, visit: 🔗 susiealegre.com 🔗 alegre.ai 🔗 CIGI Profile 📩 info@susiealegre.com 📷 @susiealegre 💼 Linkedin: Susie Alegre Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	27. Happy Human Lithuania on the Magic of Humanist Ceremonies & Growing Social Enterprises	02 Mar 2025	00:30:24
Humanist ceremonies—weddings, namings, and funerals—are growing rapidly worldwide, offering non-religious, deeply personal ways to mark life’s most significant moments. Laimingas Žmogus (Happy Human) is a social enterprise based in Lithuania, dedicated to making these ceremonies accessible and meaningful. This week we are delighted to be joined by Urtė Žukauskaitė-Zabukė, Founder and CEO, and Gerda Surgautaitė, Co-Founder of Laimingas Žmogus to share insights into establishing meaningful non-religious ceremonies that resonate with diverse populations and the launch of the Humanist Ceremonies Accelerator, a pioneering initiative designed to help humanist organisations around the world establish sustainable social enterprises through humanist ceremonies. The episode covers; - The rapid growth of humanist ceremonies globally - Introduction of the Humanist Ceremonies Accelerator programme - Addressing the unique challenges to secularism in Lithuania - Inspiring stories of uniquely tailored ceremonies - Practical advice for starting humanist social enterprises If you’re interested in the Humanist Ceremonies Accelerator, visit the Humanist International webpage for details about participation. Apply here by 14th March 2025: https://humanists.international/blog/join-the-humanist-ceremonies-accelerator/ Follow Laimingas Žmogus (Happy Human Lithunia) 🔗 laimingaszmogus.lt 📷 @laimingas.zmogus Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	26. Nathan Stilwell on the Need for Compassionate Assisted Dying Legislation & End of Life Care	03 Nov 2024	00:31:46
Welcome back to Humanism Now for a special episode coinciding with the critical upcoming UK Parliament vote on assisted dying — a pivotal moment we've long campaigned for and debated. In this episode we hear how what the bill entails, why it matters and how safe assisted dying aligns with values of compassion and autonomy. Joining us is Nathan Stilwell, Humanists UK's Assisted Dying Campaign Coordinator, Campaigns and Communications Manager at My Death My Decision and a member of The Assisted Dying Coalition Secretariat. Nathan joins us to discuss the context of this crucial vote, why Humanists UK champions this cause, and why now is the right time for change. We also address key societal concerns and shares how you can get involved to promote this cause and other important humanist issues. SUPPORT THE CAMPAIGN - WRITE TO YOUR MP Contact & follow Nathan Stilwell 📧 nathan@humanists.uk ℹ️ Humanists UK Assisted Dying Campaign ✖️ Twitter Episode References: MPs to get first vote on assisted dying for nine years, BBC Humanists UK Statement on scope of the Assisted Dying Bill (22 Oct 2024) Former archbishop of Canterbury urges bishops in Lords to back assisted dying bill, The Guardian Medic MPs urge support for assisted dying bill, BBC BBC: Right-to-die man Tony Nicklinson dead after refusing food, BBC (2013) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	25. Paul Harrison on Humanists in Business, plus Approaches to Activism Discussion	04 Jun 2024	01:06:40
"It's difficult to think of an area of work life that isn't connected to humanistic thought. If you start with ideas around the dignity of each human, compassion, kindness, ambitions, ways to behave, being evidence-based and being equitable, fair and not biased wherever possible, you start to understand that those are the foundational concepts of humanism" - Paul Harrison, Humanists in Business Network This week on Humanism Now, new panellist Christian joins AJ to discuss activism and campaigning; what makes an activist, why is it important to humanism and how has activism changed in the digital age? Plus we introduce CLH's new campaigns initiative. Our guest interview is with Paul Harrison, Coordinator of the Humanists in Business Network, part of Humanists UK, Co-Founder of the UK chapter of the Humanistic Management Network & Partner at KPMG UK. Panel references: Atheism Plus Gro Harlem Brundtland Niels Bohr Fridtjof Nansen & the Nansen Passport Hans Rosling TED Talks Moral (Self) Licensing Arab Spring 'Clicktivism' About Paul Harrison & the HiB Network KPMG Profile Humanists in Business Network LinkedIn Page Humanists in Business LinkedIn Group Humanists UK Professional Networks Humanistic Management Network Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	24. Lori Marriott on Humanist Climate Action	02 Jun 2024	01:13:09
"A key tenet of humanism is empathy. Whether that's empathy for those around us or to all humans, but also we should extend that to all life of exists, and then forward in time, to future generations." - Lori Marriott This week, Katia & Mark join the panel to discuss the merits of identifying with the humanist label. Plus we hear from Lori Marriott, Coordinator of Humanist Climate Action. References: Humanists UK: Defining Humanism Humanists International: What is Humanism? Humanists UK: How Humanist are you Quiz? UnderstandingHumanism.org.uk: Five Core Features Follow Lori Marriott & Humanist Climate Action: Follow Lori on X HCA Homepage Sign up for newsletter Read past newsletters Email HCA: climateaction@humanists.uk Follow HCA on Facebook, Instagram, and X Lori's References: Green your pension: how you can help the environment Not the End of the World, How to be the First Generation to Build a Sustainable Planet, Hannah Ritchie Climate Disinformation, European Commission Great Big Green Week Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	23. Ariel Pontes on the Quest for Ethical Consciousness in a Divided World	26 May 2024	01:24:49
"It's really not as hard as people think to have a peaceful conversation with somebody who disagrees profoundly with you on deep questions." - Ariel Pontes This week on Humanism Now we share our wide ranging interview with Ariel Pontes, a writer, podcast host and advocate for humanism, effective altruism, animal welfare and productive dialogue to counter polarisation. Ariel shares a wealth of experience and learnings from leaving Kardecist Spiritism to supporting Humanist groups in Brazil & Romania. In our news section, AJ & Lola share their views on Richard Dawkins' recent statements comparing Christianity and Islam, whether we should compare religious virtues and the concept of 'Cultural Christianity'. References: Richard Dawkins: I'm a Cultural Christian, LBC YouTube Channel Cultural Christians The Trouble with Islam Today, Irshad Manji Follow (@ArielPontes) X.com Instagram Facebook Medium More on Ariel's Work Homepage: ghostlessmachine.com Ghostless Machine Podcast Youtube @GhostlessMachine Humanistas Brasil Ariel on Effective Altruism Ariel's references: Kardecist spiritism How Minds Change, David McRaney A Manual for Creating Atheists, Peter Boghossian Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	22. Ojas Singh Bhanot on Cultivating Student Groups plus Fostering Scientific Literacy in Society	28 Apr 2024	01:04:34
"Humanism is about human goodness, appreciating reason & potential" - Ojas Singh Bhanot This week on Humanism Now, Mark & Nicole join the panel to discuss how illegal faith schools deny children the right to science, the importance of promoting scientific literacy across society and the impact of scientific fraud. This week's interview is with Ojas Singh Bhanot, Politics and Data Science student at the London School of Economics, where he Founded the Humanist Open Minds Students' Union group. His role involves leading a platform and promoting humanist values within the university community, focusing on open dialogue and inclusivity. References: Religion for Atheists, Alain de Botton Humanists UK at UN: Illegal schools deny the right to science Humanists UK campaign: State-funded faith schools & education National Secular Society: End Faith Schools Campaign Centre for Inquiry: Why Scientific Literacy Matters Humanists UK: Humanist Students Fraud in curcumin research is a warning to all of science, FuturoProssimo About Ojas Singh Bhanot LinkedIn LSE Students Union Humanist Open Minds LSE Humanist Open Minds on Instagram Ojas' References: Oxford Handbook of Digital Ethics, Carissa Véliz Upcoming events: Central London Humanists Leicester Humanists Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	21. Valerie Jack on Finding Peace in Grief without God	02 Apr 2024	00:59:35
“The irony of man's condition is that the deepest need is to be free of the anxiety of death and annihilation; but it is life itself which awakens it, and so we must shrink from being fully alive.” ― Ernest Becker, The Denial of Death Episode References: BBC News: New extremism definition unveiled by government Humanists UK: Extremists ‘negate the fundamental rights and freedoms of others’ – humanists analyse new definition ‘Resisting extremism means defending a tolerant society’, Andrew Copson Atheist Bus Campaign Radio 5: Elis James and John Robins Show About Valerie Jack; Living with Life without God Amazon GoodReads AbeBooks Twitter @ValerieJack Instagram/Facebook: @valeriejackwrites Valerie's References: How religious and spiritual beliefs explain prolonged grief disorder symptoms, Kim M. Christian, Samar M. Aoun & Lauren J. Breen The Denial of Death, Ernest Becker Why Death is Nothing to Fear: Lucretius and Epicureanism, Jack Maden, PhilosophyBreak Snoopy Cartoon on Death La Fauxmagerie “One day we will die, but on all the other days we will not.” ― Snoopy Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	62. From Commons Victory To Lords Gridlock: Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill Update with Nathan Stilwell, Humanists UK	27 Jan 2026	00:17:19
In this short update epsiode, we are pleased to welcome back Nathan Stilwell, Humanists UK's Assisted dying Campaign Coordinator, Campaigns and Communications Manager at My Death My Decision and a member of The Assisted Dying Coalition Secretariat. Nathan explains what has happened since the Assisted Dying Bill passed the House of Commons, why it now risks falling in the House of Lords, and what supporters can do to help ensure it becomes law. This episode follows Nathan’s first appearance on Humanism Now in November 2024 and offers a timely update on one of the most significant ethical debates in UK politics. References & further reading Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill – Publications – UK Parliament, bill text, amendments, and parliamentary documents Ask the House of Lords to support assisted dying – Humanists UK campaign tool for contacting peers 26. Nathan Stilwell on the Need for Compassionate Assisted Dying Legislation & End of Life Care – Humanism Now, November 2024. MPs back proposals to legalise assisted dying – BBC News, 29 November 2024. What has happened to the assisted dying bill? – BBC News, 12 December 2025. Assisted dying bill ‘near impossible’ to pass House of Lords, say supporters – The Guardian, 22 January 2026. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	20. Monica Belițoiu, ASUR on Championing Secularism & Science Across Europe	17 Mar 2024	01:04:55
Welcome back to Humanism Now! This week AJ & Mark from the Central London Humanists join the panel to discuss the latest news, plus our interview with Monica Belițoiu, Chair of The Romanian Secular Humanist Association (ASUR) . Episode References Humanist UK; Dr Rebecca Wragg Sykes awarded Darwin Day Medal Rebecca Wragg Sykes Interview Humanists UK; Assisted Dying Campaign Assisted Dying Inquiry Report \| Everything you need to know BBC News; Greece legalises same-sex marriage Matthew Walker; Why We Sleep Monica Belițoiu Facebook Instagram Humanists International; Why I contribute my experience and time to the Freedom of Thought Report, Monica Belițoiu Humanists International; Romanian humanists launch ScienceCalendar mobile app Download ScienceCalendar App on Play Store Follow ASUR Homepage Instagram @asur.ro Facebook @secularumanisti YouTube @ASURChannel Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	19. Celebrating International Women's Day! Conversation on Feminism and Humanism	12 Mar 2024	00:54:39
Welcome to Humanism Now's International Women's Day Special hosted by Audrey Simmons (Association of Black Humanists & CLH) and featuring Lola Tinubu (Assoc. Black Humanists & CLH), Katia Urquiza (Central London Humanists) & Nicole Shasha (Leicester Humanists and Young Humanists) who discuss; The importance of IWD today Does being humanist imply being a feminist? Highlighting influential women's voices Talking more about women's health Episode references: Anthony Doerr, All the Light We Cannot See Humanists UK: Human rights and equality Humanist Life: Why Humanism and feminism go hand in hand (2015) Minna Salami: The difference between feminism and humanism (2014) The Guardian: Margaret Atwood on feminism, culture wars and speaking her mind Margaret Atwood, The Handmaid's Tale Omolara Ogundipe-Leslie Wiki: Stiwanism Claudia Roden WHO: Women's Health Fact Sheet Upcoming events: Association of Black Humanists Central London Humanists Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	18. Leo Igwe on New Future for Freethought, Atheism and Humanism in Africa	03 Mar 2024	01:31:28
"We should acknowledge that humanism is something that beats in the heart of every human being" Dr Leo Igwe This week James, Lola & AJ are joined by legendary human rights activist, Leo Igwe. We discuss the merits of Darwin Day, Leo's decades of campaigning for freethought and against superstition and Leo's vision for a new future for atheism and humanism in Africa. Episode references Guardian; How should we address Charles Darwin's complicated legacy? JC Candnedo; Tai Solarin Day HUK: Humanists highlight Rwanda bill flaws HUK: MPs raise Mubarak Bala case HI: Free Mubarak Bala Campaign Leo Igwe @LeoIgwe Humanist Association of Nigeria Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) critTHINK.africa TED; Why I Choose Humanism Over Faith FOTR: Nigeria Upcoming events: Association of Black Humanists Central London Humanists Humanists International Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.
	17. Jeremy Rodell on the Art of Interfaith Dialogue	18 Feb 2024	01:06:52
Welcome back to Humanism Now. This we learn practical tips for engaging in good faith dialogues with people of different beliefs with expert insight from Jeremy Rodell, Director of Humanist UK's Dialogue Network and our regular panellists Lola & Nicole. Episode references: Humanists UK: Exploring Common Ground, Dialogue with others Humanists UK: Dialogue Training Application About Jeremy Rodell: 🎤 Humanists UK Interview 🐦 @jeremyr1 📌 South West London Humanists Send us Fan Mail Support the show Support Humanism Now & Join Our Community! Follow @HumanismNowPod \| YouTube \| TikTok \| Instagram \| Facebook \| Threads \| X.com \| BlueSky Humanism Now is produced by Humanise Live a podcast production agency based in London, serving charities, companies, and individuals across the globe. Contact us to get starting in podcasting today at humanise.live or hello@humanise.live Music: Blossom by Light Prism Podcast transcripts are AI-generated and may contain errors or omissions. They are provided to make our content more accessible, but should not be considered a fully accurate record of the conversation.

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