Chris Duffy

Chris Duffy is a stand-up comedian, television writer, and podcast host whose work focuses on humor, science, and self-improvement. As the host of TED's "How to Be a Better Human" podcast, Duffy explores diverse approaches to self-improvement, offering insights and ideas for personal growth and community engagement. Produced by TED in partnership with PRX, "How to Be a Better Human" is among TED's original podcasts and has received recognition, including the Webby Award for Advice & How-To Podcasts.

Before his work in podcasting, Duffy developed a career in comedy writing and broadcasting. He wrote for both seasons of "Wyatt Cenac's Problem Areas" on HBO and contributed to National Geographic Explorer. Duffy also created the public radio program "You're the Expert," a live show and radio program where comedians attempt to guess a scientist's area of study. He hosts the streaming show "Wrong Answers Only" for the National Academy of Sciences. Duffy has appeared on Good Morning America, ABC News, NPR, and National Geographic Explorer.

Duffy delivered a TED Talk titled "How to Find Laughter Anywhere," which examines the role of humor in daily life. He is the author of the book "Humor Me: How Laughing More Can Make You Present, Creative, Connected, and Happy" and writes the weekly newsletter "Bright Spots." The book was recognized as a Next Big Idea Club Must-Read and a Los Angeles Times Book to Read. In "Humor Me," Duffy investigates how to rediscover humor, interviewing psychologists, neuroscientists, a Navy SEAL, a Parisian-trained clown, comedians, and a 104-year-old world champion swimmer. The book explores how laughter can be therapeutic, how humor can be learned or regained, and how it contributes to physical and mental health, creativity, and resilience. Drawing on personal stories, social science research, and the experiences of comedians, Duffy provides practical strategies for finding humor in unexpected places and building connections through laughter.

With a career spanning stand-up, television, radio, and publishing, Duffy is recognized for his expertise in the science and art of humor.