Podcast Summary: "How to Take a Long Walk" (w/ Craig Mod) How to Be a Better Human, Hosted by TED
Introduction: Embracing the Art of Walking
In the April 28, 2025 episode of How to Be a Better Human, host Chris Duffy delves into the profound practice of long-distance walking with guest Craig Mod, a seasoned photographer and writer. The episode explores how intentional, extended walks can transform personal narratives, foster deep connections, and enhance creative output. Craig Mod, renowned for his extensive walks across Japan and other iconic paths like the Camino de Santiago, shares his insights on using walking as a tool for personal and artistic growth.
Craig Mod’s Walking Philosophy and Practices
Walking as a Narrative Tool
Craig Mod begins by explaining his approach to walking as a method to create and document narratives. Living in Japan for over two decades, he has walked numerous paths, capturing the essence of each journey through photography and writing. "Walking is a way to create a narrative, to force myself to see the world at a human scale and to interact with people, places, and businesses that I might not otherwise ever encounter," Craig states at [02:36].
Notable Quote:
"Walking is the ultimate kind of tool to just do that."
— Craig Mod [07:30]
Spiritual and Mental Benefits
Walking extends beyond physical exercise; Craig emphasizes its spiritual and mental benefits. Engaging in prolonged walking sessions allows for deep focus and heightened presence. By eliminating distractions such as social media and technology, walkers can achieve a state of hyper-awareness and mindfulness.
Notable Quote:
"The whole thing is ascetic practice. I even shave my head like some performative mendicant, one who lives off stories as alms."
— Craig Mod [04:43]
Solo Walks vs. Group Walks: Different Experiences
Solo Walks: Inner Reflection and Creativity
Craig describes solo walks as opportunities for intense self-reflection and creative output. Removing external stimuli sharpens his focus, allowing for uninterrupted creative processes. Solo walking fosters a deep connection with oneself, enabling thoughts and ideas to flourish in solitude.
Notable Quote:
"Solo walking and I don't have any of the teleportation things, no social media and none of that stuff, is about building a practice with yourself and honing that sense of boredom."
— Craig Mod [10:03]
Group Walks: Shared Experience and Deep Conversations
In contrast, Craig’s group walks, particularly those with Kevin Kelly, emphasize collective bonding and meaningful conversations. These walks incorporate structured interactions, such as Jeffersonian dinners, where participants engage deeply on specific topics. This format enhances interpersonal connections and fosters a sense of community.
Notable Quote:
"Doing a walk and talk like Kevin and I do is about this incredible bonding that happens between people at these dinners over the course of seven."
— Craig Mod [21:38]
The Discipline of Planning: Logistics and Rules
Advance Planning to Preserve Focus
Craig underscores the importance of meticulous planning to maintain focus during long walks. By booking all logistics in advance—such as accommodations and meal plans—he eliminates the need to divert attention to day-to-day decisions, thereby preserving mental energy for the journey itself.
Notable Quote:
"Having everything booked in advance so that there's no thinking about logistics. Logistics is death."
— Craig Mod [25:54]
Minimalistic Approach and Rule Setting
To enhance his walking experience, Craig adheres to several self-imposed rules:
- No Technology: Avoiding phones, social media, podcasts, and music to stay present.
- Structured Routine: Maintaining a consistent walking schedule without deviations.
- Purpose-Driven Interaction: Engaging meaningfully with encountered individuals without letting distractions interfere.
These rules are designed to cultivate a disciplined mindset, allowing walkers to fully immerse themselves in the experience.
Cultural Contexts: Japan vs. America and the Concept of "Yo Yu"
Japan’s Social Safety Net and "Yo Yu"
Living in Japan, Craig has experienced a societal structure that supports individuals, allowing them to pursue personal and creative endeavors without the constant pressure of economic instability. He introduces the Japanese concept of "Yo Yu," which embodies a sense of abundant space and generosity that nurtures empathy and community support.
Notable Quote:
"...the space in your heart to accept someone else, the space in your heart to have empathy."
— Craig Mod [40:50]
Craig contrasts this with the American condition, where the lack of a robust social safety net fosters fear and diminishes empathy. The absence of "Yo Yu" in America leads to societal fragmentation and a lack of communal support, which he believes hampers the ability to cultivate meaningful relationships and personal growth.
Notable Quote:
"I think what seems to be frustrating is contemporary America kind of keeps getting in its own way of achieving that vision."
— Craig Mod [40:50]
Impact on Walking Practices
The cultural differences significantly impact walking practices. In Japan, the supportive environment and availability of infrastructure make long walks more accessible and enriching. In contrast, America’s car-centric society and lack of communal support structures make similar endeavors more challenging.
Notable Quote:
"America is one of the hardest places to do this because it is so car centric."
— Craig Mod [19:50]
Honoring Memory Through Creativity: "Things Become Other Things"
A Personal Tribute
Craig shares that his latest book, "Things Become Other Things," serves as a love letter to his childhood friend Brian, who tragically passed away. The book encapsulates their friendship and Craig’s reflections on life, walking, and creativity. By producing a book through a major publisher like Random House, Craig aims to honor Brian’s memory and share his experiences with a broader audience.
Notable Quote:
"Brian, that was his name. That's the best way I can honor Brian and what our friendship was."
— Craig Mod [35:56]
The Role of Books as Immutable Objects
Craig emphasizes the significance of physical books as enduring records of thoughts and experiences, contrasting them with the ephemeral nature of digital media. Books provide a tangible and focused medium that respects the author's full attention without the distractions inherent in digital formats.
Notable Quote:
"Books are fully attention respecting, like they aren't pulling you in other directions."
— Craig Mod [35:56]
Broader Implications: Walking as a Tool for Societal Improvement
Cultivating Empathy and Community
Craig posits that habitual walking, both solo and in groups, can enhance empathy and strengthen community bonds. By fostering environments where individuals can engage deeply with their surroundings and each other, walking contributes to a more compassionate and connected society.
Notable Quote:
"I believe that the better the world will become and the better we will be able to respect this strange miracle of consciousness that we have."
— Craig Mod [36:43]
Encouraging Societal Change
Craig advocates for societal structures that support personal growth and community engagement, drawing from his experiences in Japan. He suggests that embracing concepts like "Yo Yu" can lead to more empathetic and resilient communities, ultimately fostering a better human condition.
Notable Quote:
"I wish that I could give everyone that gift in America and see what happens, see what kind of decisions were made."
— Craig Mod [40:48]
Conclusion: Walking Towards a Better Human Experience
The episode concludes with a reflection on how walking, as both a solo and communal activity, serves as a catalyst for personal development and societal improvement. Craig Mod’s dedication to long walks exemplifies a commitment to mindfulness, creativity, and empathy. By sharing his practices and philosophies, Craig inspires listeners to incorporate intentional walking into their lives as a means to become better humans.
Final Notable Quote:
"Walking down the street in a giant city where you're passing tens of thousands of people and knowing that they can only fall so far is an incredible thing to feel."
— Craig Mod [40:50]
Key Takeaways
- Intentional Walking Enhances Creativity: Long, deliberate walks can serve as powerful tools for creative thinking and storytelling.
- Mindfulness and Presence: Eliminating distractions fosters a deeper sense of presence and mental clarity.
- Cultural Influences Matter: Societal support systems like Japan’s "Yo Yu" significantly impact personal well-being and community empathy.
- Physical Books vs. Digital Media: Physical books offer a focused and enduring medium for personal and creative expression.
- Walking as a Societal Tool: Promoting walking can lead to more empathetic, connected, and resilient communities.
About Craig Mod
Craig Mod is a photographer and writer known for his extensive walks through Japan and across the Camino de Santiago. His latest book, Things Become Other Things, explores themes of friendship, memory, and personal growth through the lens of his walking experiences.
Learn More
- Book: Things Become Other Things by Craig Mod
- Website: craigmod.com
- Publisher: Random House
This summary captures the essence of the conversation between Chris Duffy and Craig Mod, highlighting the transformative power of walking and its broader implications for personal and societal betterment.