What if humility wasn’t weakness—but one of the most powerful forces for connection, leadership, and spiritual growth?
In this episode of Live Faith First, Elliot Sands sits down with psychologist, author, and humility researcher Dr. Daryl Van Tongeren to unpack what it really means to be right-sized in a world obsessed with being the best.
They explore why humility is often misunderstood, how it helps us become better friends, leaders, and bridge-builders—and why it just might be the key to thriving in today’s divided world. Daryl also shares four distinct types of humility (spoiler: you probably need more than one), how to cultivate self-awareness without spiraling into shame, and why the most humble people are often the most emotionally free.
You’ll also hear:
The “above average effect” and why you’re probably not as humble as you think
What swim lessons taught Daryl about ego, grace, and being terrible at something
How humility helps us forgive and stop tying our worth to our wins
Why asking “How might I be wrong?” might be the most spiritual question you ask today
This episode is honest, funny, deeply insightful—and just the humility check we all need.
Guest: Dr. Daryl Van Tongeren is a social psychologist, author, and professor at Hope College, specializing in the science of meaning, humility, and forgiveness. His latest book, Humble: Free Yourself from the Traps of a Narcissistic World, explores how humility unlocks joy, emotional health, and deeper human connection.
📘 Humble: Free Yourself from the Traps of a Narcissistic World – Get it on Amazon
📷 Instagram: @darylvantongeren
🧠 TEDx Talk: "The Unexpected Power of Humility"
🙋♂️Host: Elliot Sands
Elliot Sands is the host of the Live Faith First podcast—a dynamic space where faith meets real-world challenges. With a rich background as a pastor, school principal, health-tech co-founder, and now Executive Director of Live Faith First, Elliot brings deep wisdom and practical insight to every conversation. As a husband, father, and grandfather, he weaves personal experience with thoughtful discussion, tackling tough topics with clarity and compassion. Live Faith First is all about bridging divides—whether in society or the church—encouraging listeners to step beyond echo chambers and build real, meaningful relationships across the aisle, the street, or the table.
🌐 Website: elliotsands.me
📷 Instagram: @fool.4.grace
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