How to be an altruist with 'Try This' episode artwork

EPISODE · Dec 6, 2025 · 21 MIN

How to be an altruist with 'Try This'

from Post Reports · host The Washington Post

What’s really going on inside the brain of an altruist? Why do altruists care so much more for a stranger who needs help? Why are they so willing to give away a kidney?In this episode from the Washington Post’s “Try This” podcast, host Cristina Quinn explores what it means to be an altruist with Abigail Marsh, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Georgetown University. Together, they break down how altruists view their own actions and how others can become more altruistic too.Marsh offers insight into what scientists know about altruists and shares surprising findings from her own research. She also tells us how you can build the muscle of giving more in simple steps that fit your lifestyle.Read more about Marsh’s work on altruism here. Also, read Washington Post Brain Matters columnist Richard Sima’s story on how doing good is good for you.To hear more, check out “Try This” wherever you listen to podcasts.Subscribe to The Washington Post or connect your subscription in Apple Podcasts.

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Dec 6, 2025

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"Try This" from The Washington Post is a series of audio courses designed to jump-start the parts of life where we can all use a few pointers — with pithy, snackable solutions you can easily use. The latest episode is all about how to give back.

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How to be an altruist with 'Try This'

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