Humanism Now | Secular Ethics, Curiosity and Compassionate Change

Humanism Now is the weekly podcast for everyone curious, interested or actively engaged in secular humanism. Each Sunday, host James Hodgson—founder of Humanise Live—welcomes scientists, philosophers, activists, authors, entrepreneurs and community leaders who are challenging the status quo and building a fairer, kinder world.

Together we unpack today’s toughest ethical questions—using reason and compassion instead of dogma—and champion universal human rights and flourishing. Expect in-depth interviews on today's pressing issues, from climate action, protecting freedoms, equality & justice to AI ethics and cosmic wonder. Every episode delivers practical take-aways for living an ethical, purpose-driven life while discovering more about ourselves, others and the universe.

Whether you’re a lifelong secular humanist or simply curious about a naturalistic worldview, hit follow for insight-packed conversations that challenge ideas, celebrate human potential and inspire positive change. Join our global community working toward a fairer, kinder and more rational world—for this generation and the next.

Guest

Lucy Potter

Lucy Potter is a PhD student in the Department of Sociological Studies at the University of Sheffield, where her research examines the UK asylum system, focusing on cases submitted on grounds of non-religiosity. She previously completed a BA in Philosophy and an MA in Sociological Studies at Sheffield, with her dissertation exploring how ‘voluntourism’ can perpetuate neo-colonial power relations. Before beginning her PhD, Lucy worked as a Research Assistant for a third-sector organisation, contributing to projects on migration and human rights. Awarded a studentship in 2022, her doctoral work, Blasphemy and Apostasy in the UK Asylum System: Policy and Practice in Asylum Cases Submitted under Grounds of Non-religiosity, reflects her wider interests in asylum, non-religion, migration, human rights, and postcolonialism. She has published in Ethnic and Racial Studies and continues to explore how state systems shape human potential and freedom.

https://sheffield.ac.uk/spir/people/phd-research/lucy-potter

Guest appearance on:

9. Lucy Potter on Non-Religious Asylum Claims plus Tackling Misconceptions about Humanists