logo
episode-header-image
Sep 2021
2m 49s

Introducing My Unsung Hero

Hidden Brain, Shankar Vedantam
About this episode

Longtime Hidden Brain listeners know that for years, we've thanked an unsung hero at the end of every episode. Now, we're launching a new show inspired by that tradition. Each week, we'll share a short story about a moment when one person helped another in a time of need. And we'll show you how these acts of heroism — some big, some small — transformed someone's life.

Up next
Jul 7
You 2.0: The Passion Pill
You’ve probably heard the saying, “Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” The idea is that pursuing your passion will feel invigorating — almost magical. But passions can easily wane over time. This week, behavioral scientist Jon Jachimowicz looks at how to ... Show More
49m 25s
Jun 30
You 2.0: What Is Your Life For?
What should you do with your life? There's no one-size-fits-all answer to that question. But there are scientifically-tested methods that can help you to feel more in harmony with yourself and the world. This week, and in a companion conversation for Hidden Brain+, researcher Vic ... Show More
1h 3m
Jun 23
Win Hearts, Then Minds + Your Questions Answered on Identity and "Covering"
There’s a saying that’s attributed to the Dalai Lama: in the practice of tolerance, one’s enemy is the best teacher. It’s a nice idea. But when people don’t share our values, it’s hard for us to tolerate theirs. This week, we bring you a favorite episode with sociologist Robb Wil ... Show More
1h 25m
Recommended Episodes
May 2022
Sarah Marshall's Story
During her freshman year of college, Sarah is feeling adrift. But a simple comment from one of her professors helps her understand herself in a new way. If you like the show, you can support us on our Patreon page. And be sure to check out our other podcast, Hidden Brain.Do you h ... Show More
4m 14s
Jul 2022
Juleus Ghunta's Story
Juleus is in elementary school, and he can't read. But then a new teacher convinces him to believe in himself. If you like the show, you can support us on our Patreon page. And please check out our other podcast, Hidden Brain.Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd lov ... Show More
4m 49s
Nov 2023
Calvin Lowe's Story
When Calvin’s young son was about to go into surgery, his doctor shared a comforting message.Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you wi ... Show More
4m 2s
Sep 2023
Hal Hershfield's Story
A simple act of a generosity from a coffee shop barista helped Hal feel like he was finally a part of his community. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. Some guidance:--Focus o ... Show More
3m 27s
Dec 2018
What Happens When You Jump
This is the story of a boy with an unusual upbringing who would try anything. We are excited to announce that The Story Podcast was named by Apple in their Best of 2018 Collection. We are beyond grateful and thankful to all of you, our listeners, for helping us achieve this great ... Show More
18m 19s
Mar 2023
Laura Holmes Haddad's Story
As Laura undergoes chemotherapy, an X-ray technician says something that makes her feel less self-conscious about her appearance.Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. Some guidan ... Show More
3m 50s
Jul 2023
Susan Dickman's Story
After Susan rushed to the hospital to check on her sick father, a stranger offered her comfort in an unexpected way. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. Some guidance:--Focus o ... Show More
3m 32s
Dec 2021
Prophets Walk Among Us: Stories From Our Listeners
Every week, I send a show out into the ether. But it’s you, the audience, who has taken what is nothing more than an inert digital file comprised of ones and zeroes—and turned it into so much more. When I think back on the history of the show to date, it’s crystal clear what is t ... Show More
1h 7m
Apr 2020
Saving Yourself (And Humanity) One Mission At A Time
New month, new Mission Daily format. It's true, we haven't been able to settle on a format for this show since it launched over 400 episodes ago... But today, we are (finally!) returning to our founding ethos and using this show as a daily transport of the news and topics that re ... Show More
21m 55s