Wednesday, July 22, 2026
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182 stories, newest first.

TikTok
ConnectionUpworthy

‘She never called it hosting’: Midwest mom goes viral for teaching Gen Z to throw better parties

In an era where digital interactions often overshadow face-to-face connections, a Midwest mom and her daughter have become unexpected icons for Gen Z, teaching them the art of hosting through viral TikTok videos. Their series, 'Chic things my mom does as a host that change the whole night,' has struck a chord by demystifying the act of hosting, transforming it from a daunting task into a series of manageable and heartfelt gestures. The duo emphasizes simplicity and genuine connection over culinary prowess, offering advice that is less about crafting the perfect meal and more about creating an inviting atmosphere.

  • Gratitude
  • Kindness
  • Perspective
YouTube
GrowthUpworthy

Woman’s deep dive into ‘Lorem ipsum’ dummy text reveals we’ve had its history oh so wrong

Emily Zhang's exploration into the origins of 'Lorem ipsum' reveals a captivating tale that defies its mundane appearance. Contrary to popular belief, the placeholder text isn't a meaningless relic from the 1500s but a fascinating byproduct of multiple historical missteps and creative liberties. Zhang's investigation uncovered that the text stems from a 1914 printing of Cicero’s work, where a simple page break turned 'dolorem' into 'lorem.' This discovery, combined with the accidental typos of Laura Perry and the inventive adaptations by Letraset's librarian James Mosley, paints a picture of 'Lorem ipsum' as a testament to human error and ingenuity.

  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
  • Perspective
Instagram
ConnectionUpworthy

From senior class to senior home: over 50 classmates from Austin High School now live together

In a heartwarming twist on high school reunions, over 50 alumni from Austin High School have chosen to spend their golden years together at Westminster Senior Living. This community of former classmates has transformed their shared history and school spirit into a vibrant, supportive living arrangement. The bonds formed during their teenage years have endured decades, now manifesting in shared meals, nostalgic conversations, and collective reminiscence on their days as 'Red Jackets,' a cherished school spirit organization.

  • Gratitude
  • Hope
  • Kindness
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

She wrote ‘yippee’ in an email and got put on a PIP. Then the pattern clicked.

Loren Greiff's experience of being placed on a performance improvement plan (PIP) for using the word 'yippee' in an email underscores a broader issue of ageism in the workplace. Initially baffled by what seemed like an overreaction, Greiff came to understand this incident as a culmination of subtle exclusions she faced, such as canceled meetings and misattributed work. Recognizing a pattern of discrimination based on age, she chose not to silence her experience but to pivot, founding PortfolioRocket to empower professionals over 40 by reframing their career narratives from passive to proactive.

  • Courage
  • Perspective
  • Perseverance
YouTube
ResilienceNice News

Explorer Becomes First Person to Circumnavigate Globe by Air, Land, and Sea — Read His Inspiring Takeaways

James Ketchell's remarkable journey to become the first person to circumnavigate the globe by air, land, and sea is a testament to the power of determination and the human spirit. Ketchell's adventure was not merely a quest for records but an exploration of personal limits and an opportunity to inspire others, especially the young minds he engaged with during his travels. His story is rich with lessons on perseverance, as he overcame the daunting challenges of mechanical failures and the vast loneliness of the open sea.

  • Perseverance
  • Curiosity
  • Gratitude
YouTube
ConnectionGood News Network

8 Acres of Rewilding Completed Along Santa Monica Coastline: ‘It’s Still Your Beach, Only Better’

In a bid to restore the natural beauty and ecological balance of the Santa Monica coastline, The Bay Foundation has successfully rewilded 8 acres of coastal dunes. This project, led by Tom Ford, aims to reintroduce native vegetation that supports local wildlife, such as the endangered El Segundo blue butterflies, while also providing a natural defense against storm surges. The initiative has received positive feedback from the community and has been greenlit for expansion, with an additional 30 acres slated for restoration down to Venice Beach.

  • Hope
  • Perseverance
  • Curiosity
Instagram
ConnectionGood News Network

Minnesota Artist’s ‘Mini Art Vending Machine’ Has Sold Nearly 3,000 Pieces of One-Dollar Art

In the heart of Minneapolis, Lilyan Lauzon's innovative 'Mini Art Vending Machine' has transformed the way local artists connect with their audience. Installed at Inkwell Booksellers, this quirky yet impactful project allows patrons to purchase unique, small-scale artworks for just one dollar, with the entirety of the proceeds going directly to the artists. This initiative not only democratizes access to art but also offers emerging artists a novel platform to showcase their work and reach new patrons.

  • Hope
  • Curiosity
  • Kindness
Instagram
ConnectionReasons to be Cheerful

What We’re Reading: The Data Center Backlash Is Uniting Americans

In a fascinating turn of events, the proposed data center in Utah by a prominent investor has sparked a rare alliance among various community factions. The backlash against this development is not just a local skirmish but a burgeoning movement that unites liberals and conservatives, environmentalists and ranchers, under a common cause: protecting the already vulnerable Great Salt Lake. This unity underscores a growing recognition that environmental issues transcend traditional political divides, offering a glimpse into how grassroots activism can influence political outcomes.

  • Courage
  • Hope
  • Perseverance
Instagram
ResilienceGood News Network

Sighting of Elusive ‘Miner’s Cat’ a Fitting Reward for Philanthropists Rewilding Their Private Land

In the heart of Oregon's Siskiyou Mountains, Bill and Sarah Epstein have transformed a distressed plot of land into a thriving haven for wildlife, a testament to their dedication to conservation. Their efforts bore a tangible reward when a trail camera captured footage of the elusive ringtail, or 'miner’s cat,' a rarely seen species known for its nocturnal habits and historical ties to mining camps. This sighting is not only a measure of success for the couple's decades-long commitment to ecological restoration but also a powerful symbol of hope for private conservation initiatives.

  • Hope
  • Perseverance
  • Gratitude
Instagram
ConnectionUpworthy

Teacher told a 5th grader with gay dads that ‘homosexuality is wrong.’ Then 3 students stood up.

In a commendable act of solidarity, three fifth-grade students at Deerfield Elementary School in Cedar Hills, Utah, stood up against a substitute teacher's homophobic remarks. When Daniel, a student with gay fathers, shared his gratitude for his impending adoption by his two dads, the teacher criticized his family structure as sinful. In response, three classmates courageously defended Daniel and reported the incident to the school's principal, leading to the teacher's removal.

  • Courage
  • Kindness
  • Hope
Instagram
ConnectionUpworthy

Four guys write a letter asking to walk their new neighbor’s dog. The dog writes back.

In a heartwarming tale of connection, four young men in Bristol, England, found a creative solution to their pet-less predicament when they spotted a neighbor's Sheprador named Stevie Ticks. Unable to own a dog due to their landlord's restrictions, they penned a charming letter to Stevie's owner, Sarah Tolman, offering their dog-walking services. What followed was an equally delightful response from Stevie, complete with canine quirks and a list of demands for belly rubs and ball throws. This simple exchange not only led to newfound friendships but also sparked a trend of pet-sharing, reflecting a community-driven approach to companionship.

  • Kindness
  • Curiosity
  • Hope
Instagram
KindnessUpworthy

Colorado mayor reveals he’s slept at a homeless shelter one night a week for 4 months

In an era where political figures are often criticized for a lack of genuine connection with the communities they serve, Mayor Mike Coffman of Aurora, Colorado, stands out for his immersive approach to understanding homelessness. By spending one night a week at the Aurora Regional Navigation Campus (ARNC), a facility he helped establish, Coffman has committed himself to living the challenges faced by the most vulnerable members of his city. His actions have not only provided him with a deeper empathy for individuals experiencing homelessness but have also earned him respect across the political spectrum, highlighting the power of walking in another's shoes.

  • Courage
  • Compassion
  • Perseverance
TikTok
KindnessUpworthy

Mom leaves note in daughter’s lunchbox after teacher divides her lunch into ‘good/bad food’

In an enlightening episode of modern parenting, Caroline, a mother and business owner, responded thoughtfully to a situation where her daughter's teacher categorized her lunch into 'good' and 'bad' foods. Caroline's approach was not just about defending her daughter's cookies but about challenging the harmful dichotomy that can lead to long-lasting negative food associations. She emphasized the importance of a balanced diet and wrote a note to the teacher, asserting that her daughter, Evelyn, had permission to eat her lunch in any order, reinforcing the idea that no food should be labeled as inherently 'good' or 'bad.'

  • Courage
  • Kindness
  • Perspective
TikTok
GrowthUpworthy

22-year-old forgoes buying a home and spends his life savings on a chunk of raw Colombian jungle

In a bold move that turns traditional life goals on their head, 22-year-old Robert Lennox-Hvenekilde from Denmark has used his savings not for a mortgage, but to purchase 7.5 acres of Colombian jungle. This decision, rooted in a desire for freedom and a high quality of life, challenges the conventional path of home ownership, which has become increasingly unattainable for many young people due to exorbitant price-to-income ratios. Lennox-Hvenekilde's choice is a testament to the growing appeal of off-grid living, driven by economic pressures and a yearning for simplicity.

  • Courage
  • Curiosity
  • Hope
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

Michigan high schooler with one leg defies odds, becomes varsity baseball team’s star pitcher

Chris McNeal, a sophomore at Loy Norrix High School in Kalamazoo, Michigan, has emerged as an inspiring figure both on and off the baseball field. Despite being born with VACTERL association, a rare condition that led to the amputation of his left foot, McNeal has defied expectations to become the star pitcher for his varsity baseball team. His story is not just about triumph over physical challenges but also about the strength of character and resilience in the face of skepticism.

  • Perseverance
  • Courage
  • Humor
YouTube
HopeGood News Network

UK Startup is Making Electricity From Bacteria in the Soil – Maybe Your Garden Will Power Your Home Some Day

The UK startup Bactery is pioneering an innovative approach to sustainable energy by harnessing the power of soil bacteria to generate electricity. This novel technology offers a continuous power supply, even when traditional renewable sources like solar are not generating energy. With a potential output of 4 watts per cubic meter, the bacteria-powered batteries are designed to be maintenance-free and have a 30-year lifespan, presenting a promising addition to the renewable energy portfolio.

  • Curiosity
  • Hope
  • Perseverance
Instagram
ConnectionGood News Network

30,000 Scottish Descend on Boston for World Cup–And the Amazing Viral Videos Remind Us We’re All Neighbors

The story of 30,000 Scottish fans descending on Boston for the World Cup is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and community spirit. From the unexpected wake-up call of bagpipes at an Airbnb to the camaraderie over beers in local pubs, the Scots and Bostonians forged connections that transcended language and nationality. Viral videos captured the essence of this unique gathering, showcasing unlikely friendships, spontaneous musical collaborations, and even the local police joining in the festivities with soccer skills and Tartan colors.

  • Gratitude
  • Kindness
  • Curiosity
YouTube
ResilienceGood News Network

Given Just 8 Months to Live, Teen Graduates Cancer-Free 4 Years Later Thanks to Doctor’s Promise (Watch)

In an inspiring tale of courage and connection, Dylan, a teenager from Kansas City, was given just eight months to live after a diagnosis of Stage 4 kidney cancer. Defying the grim prognosis, he has graduated high school cancer-free four years later, thanks to the unwavering support and promise of Dr. Mary Austin. Dr. Austin, who committed to attending Dylan's graduation if he persevered through 52 weeks of chemotherapy, fostered a deep bond with him, providing motivation and emotional support during his most challenging times.

  • Courage
  • Perseverance
  • Love
YouTube
ResilienceGood News Network

Thousands of Flamingo Chicks Hatch in Major Comeback From Climate Disaster in Turkiye (WATCH)

In a remarkable recovery story from the brink of ecological disaster, Lake Tuz in Turkiye has witnessed the hatching of thousands of flamingo chicks, marking a significant comeback from severe climate impacts. Once nearly desiccated, the lake’s resurgence is credited to concerted conservation efforts, including a water supply project initiated by Turkiye's directorate for the protection of natural assets. This initiative has successfully created a sustainable environment for the flamingos, doubling their population compared to previous years and bringing hope to conservationists and nature enthusiasts alike.

  • Hope
  • Perseverance
  • Courage
YouTube
HopeGood News Network

Revolutionary Treatment Heals 3rd Degree Burns Across the Face of World’s First Human Recipient

The story of Kaitlin Jeffrey's recovery from third-degree burns through a pioneering treatment involving exosomes is a testament to the power of medical innovation and human resilience. Dr. Marc Jeschke, a visionary in burn treatment, opted for this novel approach, avoiding traditional skin grafts that often lead to permanent scarring and emotional distress. Exosomes, tiny particles that promote healing, were used in a groundbreaking decision that turned Jeffrey's daunting prognosis into a tale of hope and recovery.

  • Courage
  • Hope
  • Perseverance
YouTube
ConnectionUpworthy

Greatest tourism ad ever? Trevor Noah and Roger Federer board the ‘wrong train.’

In a delightful twist of humor and scenic beauty, Roger Federer and Trevor Noah's Swiss tourism ad cleverly showcases the charm of Switzerland's Grand Train Tour. The ad, which blends the comedic talents of Noah with the iconic presence of Federer, takes viewers on a picturesque journey through the Swiss countryside, all while embracing a narrative of mistaken travel plans. The cleverness lies in its ability to feel more like a mini-documentary than a traditional advertisement, drawing viewers into the experience rather than pushing a product.

  • Humor
  • Curiosity
  • Nostalgia
Instagram
ResilienceUpworthy

AI hiring tools show racial bias, systemic rejection, and creates 330 day black hole. Here’s how to outsmart it.

In a revealing study conducted by Stanford University, the use of AI hiring tools has been shown to perpetuate racial bias and create a systemic hurdle for job seekers, particularly those from marginalized communities. The research analyzed 4 million job applications across various industries, finding that AI systems disproportionately rejected Black and Asian candidates. These findings highlight the unintended consequences of relying on algorithms for recruitment, as biases embedded within the code can lead to significant disparities in hiring outcomes.

  • Courage
  • Hope
  • Curiosity
Instagram
ConnectionUpworthy

The Internet’s funniest dad gets serious about the quiet shift that’s happening in fatherhood

David Ogleton, known as FitDadCEO, has become a central figure in the evolving narrative of fatherhood, using humor as a bridge to engage and support a broad online community. While his dad jokes and skits entertain millions, Ogleton's influence goes deeper, highlighting a cultural shift where dads are increasingly visible and active in parenting roles. This shift is not just comedic but significant, as it reflects broader societal changes in how fatherhood is perceived and experienced.

  • Humor
  • Hope
  • Curiosity
Facebook
KindnessGood News Network

Just By Mowing a Lawn, Social Media Star Raises $685,000 for Bereaved Senior Who Fell Behind on Rent

In a heartwarming display of community and kindness, Spencer, the social media personality behind SB Mowing, transformed a simple act of lawn mowing into a life-changing fundraiser for Debbie, a senior citizen facing financial hardship. Debbie's life had been upended by her husband's terminal illness and subsequent passing, compounded by a series of unfortunate events that left her in dire financial straits. Spencer's intervention, prompted by a concerned Uber driver, not only rejuvenated her overgrown lawn but also sparked a viral GoFundMe campaign that raised $685,000 for Debbie, ensuring her financial security.

  • Kindness
  • Hope
  • Perseverance