Self-compassion is often misunderstood as simply “being nice to yourself.” Good resources go much further. They explain how to respond to mistakes without destroying your confidence, challenge harsh self-talk, handle shame, set boundaries, and motivate yourself without constant criticism.
These are some of the strongest talks and podcast episodes to start with.
Self-Compassion TED Talks and Videos
TED / TEDx Talks
- The Space Between Self-Esteem and Self-Compassion — Kristin Neff
Watch on YouTube
One of the best introductions to self-compassion. Neff explains why self-esteem based on comparison can be unstable and why self-compassion offers another way to respond to mistakes and failure. - The Benefits of Not Being a Jerk to Yourself — Dan Harris
Watch on TED
Especially useful for people who rely on harsh self-criticism to push themselves. - Dare to Rewire Your Brain for Self-Compassion — Weiyang Xie
Watch on TED
Focuses directly on developing self-compassion and psychological well-being. - Embrace the Shift With Self-Compassion — Elisabeth Dearni
Watch on TED
Covers responding to mistakes, inadequacy, and obstacles without turning against yourself. - Breaking the Anxiety Cycle Through Kindness — Steven Zanella
Watch on TED
Connects anxiety, negative self-talk, and self-kindness. - The Power of Vulnerability — Brené Brown
Watch on TED
Not specifically a self-compassion talk, but highly relevant to shame, worthiness, imperfection, belonging, and accepting yourself. - An Exercise in Self-Compassion — TED-Ed / The School of Life
Watch on TED-Ed
A short resource specifically about reducing harsh self-judgment. - Self-Soothing Exercises With Dr. Kristin Neff — TED
Listen on TED
Neff explains the research behind self-compassion and ways to direct compassion toward yourself. - Kristin Neff Self-Compassion Video Collection
View the collection
Includes videos on self-judgment, failure, fierce self-compassion, common humanity, and the foundations of self-compassion. - A Guide to Self-Love for Skeptics — Dan Harris
Watch on TED
A practical look at treating yourself with the same basic kindness you would give another person.
Self-Compassion Podcasts
Best Episodes to Start With
- Being Kind to Yourself — Hidden Brain with Kristin Neff
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Excellent for understanding why self-criticism feels useful and why self-compassion can actually support responsibility and growth. - Your Questions Answered: Kristin Neff on Self-Compassion — Hidden Brain
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Neff answers practical listener questions about becoming less harsh toward yourself. - How to Quiet Your Inner Critic With Dr. Kristin Neff — We Can Do Hard Things
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Especially good for self-worth, negative self-talk, and changing the way you respond to your inner critic. - Self-Compassion With Kristin Neff — Being Well
Listen here
A broad introduction to what self-compassion is and how it supports personal growth. - Fierce Self-Compassion With Kristin Neff — Being Well
Listen here
Very useful because it moves beyond simply being gentle with yourself. It covers boundaries, protecting yourself, taking action, and standing up for yourself. - Bringing Strength to Compassion With Kristin Neff — Being Well
Listen here
Explores the stronger, more assertive side of compassion. - Self-Compassion: How to Make It Work for You With Chris Germer — Being Well
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Particularly useful for shame, self-criticism, burnout, and common misunderstandings about self-compassion. - How to Silence Your Inner Critic and Why You Should — Kristin Neff, Feel Better Live More
Listen here
Covers where the inner critic comes from, self-compassion versus self-esteem, and changing harsh internal dialogue. - How to Silence Your Inner Critic — Short Version
Listen here
A shorter version if someone does not want a full-length podcast episode. - The Healing Power of Self-Compassion — Kristin Neff, The Psychology Podcast
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Covers self-compassion, anxiety, depression, motivation, failure, and becoming your own ally. - Fierce Self-Compassion — Kristin Neff, The Psychology Podcast
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Focuses on the assertive side of self-compassion rather than only comfort and reassurance. - The Power of Self-Compassion — Chris Germer
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Strong resource for shame, self-criticism, and practical ways to become more compassionate toward yourself. - The Science of Self-Compassion — Owning It: The Anxiety Podcast
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Kristin Neff discusses what self-compassion is, common misconceptions, and how it relates to anxiety.
Large Self-Compassion Podcast Collection
- Kristin Neff Podcast Interviews Collection
Browse all podcast interviews
Neff’s official site maintains a collection of podcast appearances specifically related to self-compassion, well-being, self-criticism, and personal growth.
