Krista Tippett is an American journalist, author, and entrepreneur. She created and hosts the public radio program and podcast On Being, a podcast about spirituality, politics, ethics and faith. In 2014, she was awarded the National Humanities Medal by President Barack Obama.

In this episode, Krista talks about growing up in a faith community in Oklahoma, her time as a journalist working in East Germany, and the genesis of On Being as a public radio programme. She also talks about the ways in which civil dialogue could be improved, and the power of listening, even to those with whom you deeply disagree.

This episode also features a conversation with Theos' director of research Nick Spencer, who talks about "The Inner Level" by Kate Pickett and Richard Wilkinson. The follow up to "The Spirit Level", the book argues that societies that are more equal perform better at every level of life.

Follow Theos at @theosthinktank, and follow Elizabeth Oldfield @theoselizabeth. To review the show, or make your thoughts heard, email sacredpodcast@gmail.com.