When problems arise, it's tempting to wait for someone else to address it. But sometimes, the only person who can fix it... is you. This hour, TED speakers share ideas on how to do it yourself. Guests include physicist and engineer Kate Stone, humanitarian programmer Tiffani Ashley Bell, builder and youth educator Emily Pilloton-Lam and videographer Jack Corbett.TED Radio Hour+ subscribers now get access to bonus episodes, with more ideas from TED speakers and a behind the scenes look with our producers. A Plus subscription also lets you listen to regular episodes (like this one!) without sponsors. Sign-up at: plus.npr.org/tedLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Physicist, engineer, humanitarian programmer, builder, and videographer share empowering stories of taking control to solve problems. Topics include media sensationalism, DIY ethos, individual activism, empowering women in construction trades, and unexpected success on TikTok.

Emily Pilloton-Lam, a passionate youth educator and builder, advocates for women in the construction industry where only four percent of workers are female. She emphasizes the transformative power of empowering young women and gender-expansive youth with tools and skills necessary for the trades. The conversation covers the urgent need for inclusivity in construction, the vibrant community of tradeswomen, and the importance of mentorship for the next generation. Pilloton-Lam even dazzles with a live woodworking demo, showing the power of hands-on experience.