Comedian's Book Explores How Laughter Can Make You 'A Better Human'

Chris Duffy, host of the 'How to be a Better Human' podcast, shares insights on the power of humor in his new book 'Humor Me'.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 1:47am

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Chris Duffy, a comedian and podcast host, explores in his new book 'Humor Me' how laughter and a good sense of humor can help people be more present, creative, connected, and happy. Duffy shares his own journey from being a serious fifth-grade teacher to embracing humor and how it changed his life and career. The book challenges the misconception that the loudest or most performative people are the funniest, and instead argues that the person with the best sense of humor is often the one who laughs the most and makes others feel seen and present.

Why it matters

Duffy's book provides an insightful perspective on the value of humor and laughter in everyday life. In a world that can often feel serious and stressful, the book encourages readers to tap into their innate sense of play and wonder, which Duffy believes can lead to greater joy, connection, and personal growth.

The details

Duffy, who previously taught fifth grade in Boston, felt he had to 'be serious all the time' and work at maximum capacity, which led to burnout. But one of his students, Gary, changed his perspective by pitching the idea of being a cafeteria food critic for the school newspaper - an unexpected and hilarious idea that made Duffy laugh and realize the power of humor. Duffy's book challenges the misconception that the loudest or most performative people are the funniest, arguing instead that the person with the best sense of humor is often the one who laughs the most and makes others feel seen and present.

  • Duffy's book 'Humor Me' was published on February 4, 2026.

The players

Chris Duffy

A comedian and the host of the TED podcast 'How to Be a Better Human', who has written a book called 'Humor Me' exploring the power of laughter and humor.

Gary

One of Duffy's former fifth-grade students, who had the idea to be a cafeteria food critic for the school newspaper, which helped change Duffy's perspective on the value of humor.

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What they’re saying

“The thing that I always go back to is if you go to an elementary school, it is so rare to see a kid who does not have a good sense of humor. It's so extraordinarily rare to meet someone who's just like never laughing or playing or having fun at all.”

— Chris Duffy, Comedian and podcast host (12news.com)

“The person with the best sense of humor, in my opinion, is someone who laughs the most, who walks through their day and notices funny and delightful things, who's able to laugh at themselves, and often that person is like not looking for attention at all.”

— Chris Duffy, Comedian and podcast host (12news.com)

What’s next

Duffy's book 'Humor Me' is available for purchase starting February 4, 2026.

The takeaway

Duffy's book 'Humor Me' provides a compelling argument for the importance of cultivating a sense of humor and embracing laughter in our everyday lives. By tapping into our innate playfulness and ability to find joy in the unexpected, we can become more present, creative, and connected - ultimately becoming 'better humans'.