To The Best Of Our Knowledge
Wisconsin Public Radio
”To the Best of Our Knowledge” is a Peabody award-winning national public radio show that explores big ideas and beautiful questions. Deep interviews with philosophers, writers, artists, scientists, historians, and others help listeners find new sources of meaning, purpose, and wonder in daily life. Whether it’s about bees, poetry, skin, or psychedelics, every episode is an intimate, sound-rich journey into open-minded, open-hearted conversations. Warm and engaging, TTBOOK helps listeners feel less alone and more connected – to our common humanity and to the world we share.For more from the TTBOOK team, visit us at ttbook.org.
Episodes
Mentioned books
13 snips
Sep 20, 2025 • 52min
Retreat from the Day-to-Day Life
Pico Iyer, an acclaimed travel writer and essayist known for his insights on silence and mindfulness, shares his transformative experiences with silent retreats, highlighting how they help reframe priorities and deepen spiritual understanding. Monica Gagliano, an evolutionary ecologist renowned for her research on plant intelligence, recounts her intense 39-day darkness retreat, describing both the challenges and the profound sense of rebirth that followed. Together, they explore the importance of retreating from daily chaos to connect with the self and the natural world.
Sep 13, 2025 • 52min
Giving Up
In this thought-provoking discussion, guests John Oakes, author of 'The Fast,' Adam Phillips, a psychoanalyst, and Maggie Jackson, author of 'Uncertain,' explore the liberating power of giving up. They challenge conventional wisdom on persistence, highlighting fasting's potential for transformation and the benefits of letting go of certainty. The conversation delves into the fine line between noble sacrifice and failure, and how embracing uncertainty can lead to deeper, more authentic connections. Open your mind to a new perspective on surrender!
9 snips
Sep 6, 2025 • 52min
Deep Time: Reclaim the Night
In this engaging conversation, British folk singer and conservationist Sam Lee, known for his nighttime concerts with nightingales, and writer Leigh Ann Henion, author of 5Night Magic,' explore the transformative power of darkness. They discuss unique nighttime traditions like silent walks in the woods, the emotional bonds humans share with nightingales through music, and the pressing need to reclaim our connection with nature amidst rising light pollution. Their reflections inspire listeners to appreciate the hidden marvels that the night holds.
Aug 30, 2025 • 52min
Island of Knowledge: Human Flourishing
Join Richard Davidson, a neuroscience pioneer in meditation and well-being, alongside Palestinian singer and neuroscientist Dalal Abu Amneh, and psychologist Diana Fosha, the creator of Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy. They delve into how mindfulness can boost city-wide happiness, explore music's transformative role in healing and societal connection, and emphasize the importance of emotional connection in therapy. Discover how small changes in daily practices can enhance human flourishing and restore joy amidst life's challenges.
Aug 23, 2025 • 52min
The Sum of Our Data
Susannah Breslin, a journalist and author of "Data Baby," shares insights from her childhood experience in a psychological experiment that shaped her identity. Philosopher Lowry Pressly discusses the evolving concept of privacy in a surveillance-heavy world, questioning whether it remains a privilege or a fundamental need. Carl Öhman highlights ethical dilemmas surrounding data ownership and the fate of our digital legacies after death. Together, they explore the complexities of personal data, identity, and the implications of emerging technologies on privacy and grief.
Aug 16, 2025 • 52min
To All The Dogs We've Loved
Blair Braverman, a dog sledder and author, shares stories from her adventures in the snowy wilderness, highlighting the deep bond that forms between mushers and their dogs. Philosopher Donna Haraway dives into the philosophical implications of our connections with animals, exploring how they enhance our lives. Together, they discuss navigating the grief of losing a pet and the joy of new beginnings in dog ownership. They also emphasize the importance of spaces like Dog Mountain, a sanctuary celebrating the unique bonds between humans and their four-legged friends.
14 snips
Aug 9, 2025 • 52min
In Search of 'Real' Food
In this fascinating discussion, food journalist Simran Sethi, culinary historian Michael Twitty, chef Samin Nosrat, and writer Josh Noel dive into the essence of 'real' food. They explore what authenticity means and why it matters, sharing insights on cultural identity and the emotional ties to traditional dishes. The group tackles the paradox of supermarket variety, the importance of heritage in food, and the evolution of craft beer. Personal anecdotes illuminate the connections between food and memory, making this a rich dialogue for any food lover.
13 snips
Aug 2, 2025 • 52min
Playing with Words
A. J. Jacobs, a journalist famed for his immersive lifestyle experiments and author of *The Puzzler*, teams up with Anna Shechtman, a crossword constructor from The New Yorker, to explore the vibrant world of word games. They discuss how puzzles have become essential for stress relief, particularly during chaotic times. The conversation dives into the cultural impact of puzzles, including cryptic crosswords and their historical significance. Jacobs and Shechtman also highlight the importance of inclusivity in puzzle-making and reflect on personal experiences that make these games resonate.
Jul 26, 2025 • 52min
Writing the Climate Change Story
Alice Bell, co-director of the climate charity Possible, discusses the necessity of storytelling in making the climate crisis relatable. Lydia Millet explores generational guilt through her novel, using biblical allegories to address climate change themes. John Lanchester highlights the emotional and societal impacts of a dystopian future shaped by environmental collapse. The conversation emphasizes the evolution of climate narratives and the importance of diverse voices, ultimately showcasing how literature can convey both urgency and hope in facing the climate crisis.
Jul 19, 2025 • 52min
Deep Time: The Tyranny of Time
Jenny Odell, a writer and author of 'Saving Time,' discusses our cultural relationship with time and its detrimental effects on society. David Rooney, a former curator at the Royal Observatory, shares fascinating insights into the history of clocks. They explore the impact of clock time on personal well-being, rethinking productivity, and the intricate connection between time and identity. Both guests urge a shift towards a more natural understanding of time that respects deeper rhythms and encourages a healthier lifestyle.
