Karl Goldstein’s Story
Karl decides to quit piano lessons when he’s 12, because his new teacher is too strict. But then she says something that changes his mind, and transforms their relationship.
Karl Goldstein’s Story Read More »
How to Change the World
Does power truly flow from the barrel of a gun? Pop culture and conventional history often teach us that violence is the most effective way to produce change. But is that common assumption actually true? Political scientist Erica Chenoweth, who has studied more than 100 years of revolutions and insurrections, says the answer is counterintuitive.
How to Change the World Read More »
Mary Amato’s story
After giving birth to her second child, Mary is struggling with her identity as a stay-at-home mom. But then an older woman says something to her that makes all the difference.
Mary Amato’s story Read More »
Putting Our Assumptions to the Test
Do you ever stop to wonder if the way you see the world is how the world really is? Economist Abhijit Banerjee has spent a lifetime asking himself this question. His answer: Our world views often don’t reflect reality. The only way to get more accurate is to think like a scientist — even when you’re not looking through a microscope.
Putting Our Assumptions to the Test Read More »
Jamie Spurway’s Story
On his first international trip alone, Jamie gets lost in the hustle and bustle of L.A. Before things go too awry, a young woman appears and goes above and beyond to help him.
Jamie Spurway’s Story Read More »
Wendy McDowell’s Story
It’s 1979, and Wendy is eight years old, crying alone in an airport. Then she sees a woman in white walking toward her.
Wendy McDowell’s Story Read More »
Mind Reading 2.0: Why Conversations Go Wrong
Do you ever struggle to communicate with your mom? Or feel like you and your spouse sometimes speak different languages? In the final episode of our “Mind Reading 2.0” series, we bring back one of our favorite conversations, with linguist Deborah Tannen. She shows how our conversational styles can cause unintended conflicts, and what we can do to communicate more effectively with the people in our lives.
Mind Reading 2.0: Why Conversations Go Wrong Read More »
Sanaa Kerroumi’s Story
Sanaa is on her train ride home when an angry man begins threatening her. Before he gets too close, a stranger intervenes. Podcast: Subscribe to the My Unsung Hero Podcast on your favorite podcast player so you never miss an episode. Newsletter: Go behind the scenes, see what Shankar is reading and find more useful
Sanaa Kerroumi’s Story Read More »
Deb Merchant’s Story
When Deb Merchant was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003, her partner Scott Stevens was at her side through every part of her treatment. It made all the difference in her recovery. Podcast: Subscribe to the My Unsung Hero Podcast on your favorite podcast player so you never miss an episode. Newsletter: Go behind the
Deb Merchant’s Story Read More »