Our Stories

Recent Programs

• Gimme Five
  Back in 1994, at his home/studio in Chicago, Ken Nordine and I worked together on a project we called The Gimme Five Show – intended as a fantastical, fun way to entice young people to eat well. Not a Humankind program, this special production was funded by the National Institutes of Health. Ken -a master of audio imagination- conjured…
• Listeners (Pts 1&2)
  There’s a kind of mystery in sitting calmly, patiently, attentively and tuning into someone else’s personal story – their experience and life journey. In this special program, we hear the reflective insights of people who listen for a living: physicians, counselors and clergy.
• Diet and Health
  In this Humankind documentary, we hear from a growing movement of physicians and others who — concerned by the rising rates of obesity, diabetes and heart disease — are placing greater emphasis on advising patients about more healthful eating. But changing our diets is notoriously difficult, especially in a culture that heavily promotes unhealthy foods.
• Welcoming the Stranger
  Several chaplains reflect in-depth on the experience of connecting with people who are facing challenges related to mental health, addiction and homelessness. We hear from a social worker, Larry Clum, who explores what it means to companion homeless people without an intent to “fix” their problem.
• Jailhouse Chaplains
  The United States incarcerates more people than any other nation in the world. Federal and state prisons and county jails hold around two million prisoners. In this segment, we explore in-depth the experiences of two chaplains and two prisoners about their faith journeys while behind bars.
• Moral Force and International Law
  We honor the recent passing of Fr. Robert Drinan, the law professor, priest and former Congressman. This program examines the role of moral authority as a basis for international law intended to promote a more humane world.

Staff Picks

• Resilient Nurses
  A no-holds-barred look at the stressful conditions in which many nurses work: the long hours, the emotional toll, the rapid pace, and the way that technology and institutional practices can make it hard to form a caring bond with patients.
• The Power of Nonviolence
  The Power of Nonviolence seeks deep solutions to this vexing problem. We turn to wisdom teachings across our great spiritual traditions for guidance—and inspiration—on how the lasting wounds can be healed.
• The Spiritual Care Podcast
  Announcing our new podcast about the fascinating field of "spiritual care". We explore how chaplains, health care providers, social workers and other caregivers work to bring a healing, supportive presence to students, medical patients, armed service members, and more.

Producer’s Note

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