Nizar Ibrahim

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

Join Nizar Ibrahim, a National Geographic Explorer and paleontologist, as he discusses the groundbreaking discovery of Spinosaurus, the first known swimming dinosaur. He shares exhilarating tales of his team's explorations in Morocco, revealing the challenges faced in unearthing these ancient fossils. The podcast dives into the unique anatomy of Spinosaurus, showcasing its crocodile-like features that challenge conventional views on dinosaur behavior. Ibrahim also emphasizes the significance of local representation in paleontology, advocating for inclusive narratives in science.

Nizar Ibrahim, a National Geographic Explorer and paleontologist known for discovering the Spinosaurus, shares his thrilling journey of unearthing the first known swimming dinosaur. He reveals the challenges faced during their expedition in the Sahara Desert, including lost WWII fossils and a quest to understand Spinosaurus' unique anatomy. Ibrahim stresses the importance of African representation in paleontology, advocating for the preservation of Morocco's fossil heritage while reshaping our understanding of this aquatic predator's lifestyle.