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

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

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Amelia and Jez revisit the topic of creativity with author and speaker, Fredrik Haren. Drawing from his experiences interviewing thousands of people across 75 countries, Fredrik shares insights on the universal nature of creativity and its role in making us human. He discusses the importance of being a "creativateur", someone who unlocks creative potential in others, and offers practical advice for nurturing creativity in everyday life. Fredrik's stories about Spanish sculptors, Mongolian nomads, and Afghan painters illustrate the myriad ways creativity manifests across cultures, the balance between confidence and humility in creative pursuits, and the value of learning from diverse perspectives. Fredrik believes everyone’s creativity is different, a shared human trait and yet a uniquely personal experience, which makes Jez feel good about fixing a loo seat, and the “mend thrill” he experienced in doing so.

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

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

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

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Amy Elizabeth Fox, co-founder and CEO of Mobius Executive Leadership, and Jeremy Sturt, co-founder of Just Add Water, join Amelia to explore transformative approaches to leadership development. Amy shares stories about her life; from environmental activism and a need to understand how unaddressed trauma was preventing the shift in consciousness needed to respond effectively to big challenges humanity faces, to her innovative leadership programmes which connect intellectual models with spiritual awakening to develop the leaders the world needs now. Amy and Jeremy explore their shared mission of humanising the workplace by creating more vital, inspired organisational cultures.

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

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In this bonus retrospective episode, Amelia and Jez reflect on highlights from their second series, offering listeners a taste of the profound and inspiring stories shared. They revisit conversations with guests like Rachael Burford, Clarke Reynolds, and Hannah Ubl, exploring themes of perseverance, inspiration, and generational understanding. The episode touches on the power of music with Jonathan Tang, social change and inclusion with Tiernan Brady, and redefining rest with Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith. Mel Greblo's journey from personal loss to empowering women, Oscar Chalupsky's lessons on resilience, and Jeremy Sturt's insights on the importance of play in business round out the diverse and impactful discussions.

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Amelia and Jez are joined by Jeremy Sturt, one of the co-founders of Just Add Water (and their boss!) to explore the importance of play in the workplace. How does play drive innovation, build relationships, foster a more joyful work environment, and challenge conventional notions of productivity? Drawing on his extensive experience in theatre and consulting, Jeremy shares insights on why play is crucial for organisational growth, and individual happiness and fulfilment, and offers practical advice for anyone wanting to build more playfulness into their daily lives.

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Amelia and Jez explore Resilience. How can we bounce back from what life throws at us? And how can we best prepare for what's to come? They are joined by Oscar Chalupsky, legendary South African paddler and water sports athlete with a career spanning over three decades. Oscar is currently facing a battle with cancer, which he approaches with the same determination that shaped his sporting career. Oscar tells stories of successes, of which there are many, and failures, of which there are fewer, with vulnerability and humour, sharing his insights on how he remains positive and resilient to anything life throws in his direction.

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Amelia and Jez explore purpose. How important is meaning in our lives? And what happens when we believe our efforts make a difference to others? They are joined by Melanie Greblo, who has dedicated her life to catalysing and leading social change. Mel is the Founder and CEO of Humans of Purpose, an impact venture to achieve safe social and economic participation for women who face barriers to employment, particularly survivors of domestic and family violence. Driven by her own lived experiences, Mel aims to make the world a better place for others.

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Amelia and Jez explore rest. They are joined by Dr Saundra Dalton-Smith, physician, researcher, author, and leading voice in the conversation around rest, recovery, and overall well-being. What is the difference between sleep and rest? What are the different types of rest, and why do they matter? How does life prevent us from resting, and what can we do about it? Giving context and understanding to what we have all experienced, Dr Saundra shares habits we can all nurture to help us find the energy for whatever the day ahead may hold.

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Amelia and Jez explore campaigning. They are joined by Tiernan Brady, former mayor, campaign manager, human rights advocate and activist who recounts his experiences on driving successful referendum campaigns. What makes campaigns successful? How can we connect with others to help them support the change we're advocating? And what can we take from the world of campaigning when trying to change how our colleagues, friends, and even family think? Tiernan shares funny, heart-warming, and profound stories from his personal and professional life to answer these questions and more.

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Amelia and Jez explore music. They are joined Jonathan Tang, PHD Student in Psychology of Music, and Clinical Music Therapist in medical, mental health and special education settings. Why do sounds arranged in certain ways create such beauty of form, harmony and expression of emotion? Beyond simple enjoyment, how can melody improve our mental well-being, physical rehabilitation, communication skills and thinking? JT guides Amelia and Jez through some exercises to help them understand the transformative power of music.

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Amelia and Jez explore generations. What defines a generation (spoiler alert: it is so much more than the year you were born), and how are collective identities formed? And how can a willingness to understand generational differences help with relationships, work, social change, and personal growth? Author, consultant, and generational expert Hannah Ubl joins the conversation, shedding light on the variety of ways that generations are shaped, and some recurring themes in intergenerational misunderstandings. Records suggest the “youth of today” have not measured up, according to their elders, for at least 2,500 years...

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Amelia and Jez explore positivity. How can we hope for a better tomorrow, and simultaneously confront the often harsh realities of today? They are joined by visual artist Clarke Reynolds, who is blind. Whether he is challenging us all to engage with art in new and diverse ways, or helping school children enjoy the story telling power of braille, and answering their brutally honest questions, Clarke's positive and playful approach to both his work and life in general are an inspiration. 

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Amelia and Jez are back for a second season! They are joined by the fantastic Rachael Burford, England Rugby World Cup Winner, former Harlequins Rugby Captain, and powerful advocate for women and girls in all sports. Rachael shares heartwarming stories about her life, from struggling at school, and overcoming real challenges and obstacles, to finding her spiritual home in the rugby community. A fascinating conversation about passion, role models, determination, and being of service to others. Boring Things About Me returns, and Jez gets caught whilst the mic is on during the bloopers...

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Amelia and Jez revisit moments from The Being Human Podcast Series 1.

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Amelia and Jez explore the experiences we have with people different to ourselves. They are joined by the wonderful Ronni Abergel, founder of The Human Library, who is determined to help people better understand themselves and others around them by creating safe spaces for conversation and dialogue. Ronni beautifully shares his personal and professional journey in creating The Human Library, highlighting the true power of vulnerability and openness - an emotional, thought-provoking and inspiring conversation. Don't miss listening to the bloopers at the end to hear Jez getting into a bit of bother about a car parking ticket...

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