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

Maggie Ardiente

Maggie Ardiente is an American humanist leader, non-profit executive and advocate at the intersection of secularism, social justice and civil rights. In 2025 she was elected President of Humanists International, becoming the first woman of colour to lead the organisation.

Maggie served for 12 years as Director of Development & Comms at the American Humanist Association where she helped organise the landmark 2012 Reason Rally and edited for TheHumanist.com.
She later joined PFLAG National as VP of Development bringing her fundraising and advocacy skills to LGBTQ+ rights work.

As President of the Secular Coalition for America, she led a coalition of 20 secular, humanist and atheist orgs. working to defend religious freedom, separation of church and state and equal representation of nonreligious Americans.

She is a commentator on reproductive rights, secularism and equality and has appeared on NPR, The Washington Post, and Fox News.

https://humanists.international/

Guest appearance on:

51. Maggie Ardiente, President of Humanists International on Spreading Joy in the One Life We Have