Self-help advice is filled with quick fixes on "living your best life." But there are no shortcuts. On this week's show, TED speakers search for meaningful ways to reduce stress, gain confidence, and connect. (00:00)

You've heard it before - don't talk sex, politics, or religion with "mixed company." But Priya Parker disagrees. She says gatherings would be more meaningful if we let them get a bit uncomfortable.

Ever wish your brain just ... worked better? Developmental cognitive scientist Sabine Doebel explains what we can do to improve our executive function to break bad habits and create better ones.

 

How do you build confidence, when the world has taught you not to be confident? Activist Brittany Packnett talks about confidence in her own personal journey as a woman of color.

During a normal workday, most of us sit for hours on end ... and it's hurting our health. Nilofer Merchant has a simple solution: next time you have an important meeting, take a walk.

 

Stress is an unpleasant emotion -- but does it have an upside? Health psychologist Kelly McGonigal says adjusting the way you think about stress can actually change the way your body responds to it.