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.
For more from the TTBOOK team, visit us at ttbook.org.
Episodes
Mentioned books
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.
11 snips
Jul 12, 2025 • 52min
Island of Knowledge: What is Life?
In this intriguing discussion, physicist Marcelo Gleiser, geologist Bob Hazen, and science writer Phil Ball tackle the enigmatic question: What is life? They explore the necessity for a new theory of life, emphasizing the interplay of evolution, existence, and geology. The conversation touches on the importance of reconnecting children with nature for a deeper understanding of life sciences. They also delve into the complexities of consciousness and identity, raising thought-provoking ethical questions about our evolving notions of life in the 21st century.
9 snips
Jul 5, 2025 • 52min
Everyday Magic
In this conversation, Nancy Marie Brown, a Viking history scholar, explains why Icelanders believe in elves, linking folklore to environmental conservation. Deborah Harkness, a professor and author, shares insights on how magic and mythology intertwine in her All Souls trilogy. Tabitha Stanmore, an expert on witchcraft, discusses the historical significance of cunning folk in Tudor England, and the podcast explores how beliefs in magic were once part of daily life, inviting listeners to rediscover the ordinary magic that still exists around us.
Jun 28, 2025 • 52min
Cultivating Wonder
Lulu Miller, a science and nature reporter known for her work on Radiolab, joins Dacher Keltner, a UC Berkeley psychologist uncovering the science of awe, and Jennifer Michael Hecht, a poetic historian exploring existence. They delve into rediscovering wonder through childhood perspectives and the transformative power of awe in daily life. The conversation highlights how simple moments can spark curiosity and connection, while poetry serves as a bridge to meaning in a chaotic world, enriching our experiences and relationships.
