Jae Rhim Lee, known for her sustainable burial innovations, joins Katrina Spade, who specializes in redefining funeral practices. They explore the interplay of death and ecology, encouraging fresh perspectives on funerary rites. From the humorous complexities of burial to innovative methods like alkaline hydrolysis, the discussion highlights urban burial dilemmas and community rituals that nurture collective grief. Insights into the historical impacts on Indigenous practices reveal the deep connections between burial, culture, and the environment.

Brie Smith, Micah Truman, Katrina Spade, and Thomas Bass discuss the impact and process of composting human bodies. They explore the environmental benefits, legal issues, and efforts to legalize human composting. They also touch on pathogen survival and safety concerns surrounding the practice.

Original broadcast date: March 11, 2022. From our planet's underwater caves to its ancient soils, there are entire worlds right beneath our feet. This hour, we explore the subterranean forces that shape our lives above the ground. Guests include cave diver Jill Heinerth, death care advocate Katrina Spade, soil scientist Asmeret Asefaw Berhe, and paleontologist Nizar Ibrahim. 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/ted.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Cory Mcabee, Lori Leonard, Katrina Spade, and John Christian Phifer discuss topics such as colonizing Mars, the decline of Earth, green burial practices, and the integration of organic burial practices on Mars and Earth. The speakers also touch on the importance of taking responsibility for our planet and redefining established narratives.

From our planet's underwater caves to its ancient soils, there are entire worlds right beneath our feet. This hour, we explore the subterranean forces that shape our lives above the ground. Guests include cave diver Jill Heinerth, death care advocate Katrina Spade, soil scientist Asmeret Asefaw Berhe, and paleontologist Nizar Ibrahim.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy