Jonna Mendez, a former CIA Chief of Disguise, shares thrilling tales of espionage and the art of disguise. Holly Herndon explores the innovative intersection of machine learning with vocal artistry, raising questions of identity. Anthropologist Mary L. Gray discusses the ethical dilemmas of anonymity in ride-sharing, while digital fashion designer Gala Marija Vrbanic reveals how virtual clothing can reshape identity in a digital world. Together, they illuminate a fascinating exploration of disguise, technology, and personal expression.

Original broadcast date: August 26, 2022. Everything is not what it seems. We can easily disguise ourselves in both the digital and physical world. This hour, TED speakers explore the ways we go incognito... from espionage to virtual reality. Guests include former CIA Chief of Disguise Jonna Mendez, artist Holly Herndon, anthropologist Mary L. Gray and digital fashion designer Gala Marija Vrbanic. 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

Everything is not what it seems. We can easily disguise ourselves in both the digital and physical world. This hour, TED speakers explore the ways we go incognito... from espionage to virtual reality. Guests include former CIA Chief of Disguise Jonna Mendez, artist Holly Herndon, anthropologist Mary L. Gray and digital fashion designer Gala Marija Vrbanic.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy