Keller Rinaudo, founder of Zipline, discusses using drones for medical supply delivery, the impact of COVID-19 on adoption, and the future of pandemic treatments. He also talks about how drone delivery works, the response to COVID-19 in Africa, and the capabilities of Zipline's planes.

Original broadcast date: October 29, 2021. What does it take to deliver a message, precious cargo, or vaccines — meant for exactly the right place in our bodies? This hour, TED speakers explore the often perilous journey of crucial deliveries. Guests include theater director Amir Nizar Zuabi, astrophysicist Erika Hamden, chemical engineer Kathryn Whitehead, and entrepreneur Keller Rinaudo.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What does it take to deliver a message, precious cargo, or vaccines — meant for exactly the right place in our bodies? This hour, TED speakers explore the often perilous journey of crucial deliveries. Guests include theater director Amir Nizar Zuabi, astrophysicist Erika Hamden, chemical engineer Kathryn Whitehead, and entrepreneur Keller Rinaudo.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Keller Rinaudo, founder of Zipline, discusses air-dropping blood in Rwanda, the rise of instant delivery, and saving more than 1,000 lives. He explains how a toy gave him credibility and why they went to Africa first, as well as the challenges of building the fastest delivery drone in the world.

Anthony Foxx, former Secretary of Transportation and mayor of Charlotte, shares insights on the urgent need to modernize infrastructure beyond outdated systems. Keller Rinaudo, CEO of Zipline, illustrates how drones revolutionize delivery in Rwanda, emphasizing the potential for U.S. infrastructure. Jase Wilson, CEO of Neighborly, discusses the power of crowdsourcing and public finance in community projects. The conversation also tackles the challenges of regulating new technologies while ensuring inclusivity, aiming for a future where infrastructure serves all citizens equitably.