TED Radio Hour

Join paleontologist Dean Lomax, who explores ichthyosaurs and celebrates Mary Anning’s legacy. Discover Saad Bhamla's insights into insect engineering, showcasing their unique fluid mechanics. Hear from herpetologist Gowri Shankar as he shares gripping tales of king cobra rescues and the importance of educating the public about these snakes. Finally, conservation biologist Patrícia Medici discusses the vital role of tapirs in biodiversity and urgent conservation efforts in Brazil. It’s a captivating journey into the mysteries of the animal kingdom!

Pico Iyer, an acclaimed author known for his reflections on silence and escape, discusses the transformative power of solitude. Sarah Edmondson, a brave whistleblower from NXIVM, sheds light on the manipulative dynamics of cults and the struggle to reclaim one’s identity. Lehua Kamalu, a traditional Hawaiian navigator, shares her insights on navigating the ocean using ancient techniques, emphasizing the mental clarity that comes from connecting with nature. Together, they explore how escaping modern distractions can lead to renewal and inner peace.

Olympic gold medalist Abby Wambach shares her experiences on mental resilience and the pressures of high-stakes competition. Cognitive scientist Sian Leah Beilock discusses how overthinking can hinder performance, illustrating concepts like the 'yips' and 'twisties'. Sports journalist Kate Fagan reflects on the psychological influence of fandom and the emotional journeys in women's sports. Together, they explore how insights from sports psychology can enhance everyday life, motivating listeners to embrace challenges with a winner's mindset.

Sandra Matz, a computational social scientist and author of 'Mind Masters', delves into how AI uses data for psychological targeting. She discusses the fascinating yet alarming ability of digital footprints to craft detailed personality profiles. Matz emphasizes the importance of protecting personal data against these influences and calls for better regulatory measures. The conversation also touches on the implications of innovations like trineural implants, raising questions about privacy and control in our tech-driven lives.

Hajer Sharief, a human rights activist and co-founder of the Together We Build It Foundation, shares insights on fostering democracy through family meetings in Libya. Amy Edmondson, a Harvard Business School professor, emphasizes the significance of psychological safety in creating an innovative team culture. Pete Stavros, co-head of global private equity at KKR, discusses the benefits of employee ownership in enhancing workplace satisfaction and performance. Together, they explore unique strategies that can transform teamwork and drive meaningful change.

In this engaging discussion, artist Katie Paterson explores deep time through her thought-provoking works that connect glaciers and stars, inspiring reflection on our temporal existence. Cognitive neuroscientist Irena Arslanova reveals how our heart's rhythms influence our perception of time, emphasizing the interplay between emotions and temporal awareness. Meanwhile, music director Robert Franz shares techniques for active listening, illustrating how music shapes our experience of time, turning classic compositions into immersive emotional journeys.

Ken Lacovara, a paleontologist and founding dean of the School of Earth and Environment at Rowan University, shares thrilling insights about the day the dinosaurs died. He discusses a significant fossil site in New Jersey that reveals ancient ecosystems and the catastrophic asteroid impact. Listeners will be captivated by his personal stories of fossil hunting adventures and the transformation of a quarry into the Edelman Fossil Park. Lacovara emphasizes the importance of education, public engagement, and the joyful excitement of uncovering prehistoric life.

Sarah Lake, a food system and climate expert, discusses the shift towards a plant-rich diet, highlighting how cultural norms shape food choices. Deb Chachra, an infrastructure engineer, emphasizes the critical role of resilient systems amid climate change. Michele Gelfand, a cross-cultural psychologist, explores tight and loose cultural frameworks and their impact on behavior. Urban planner Jeff Speck advocates for walkable cities, sharing insights on designing spaces that prioritize pedestrians over cars, ultimately enhancing community interaction and environmental sustainability.

In a lively discussion, social scientist Ty Tashiro examines the perks of being socially awkward, while cartoonist Liana Finck illustrates the beauty in uncomfortable moments through her art. Journalist Melissa Dahl dives into feelings of shame and cringeworthy experiences, advocating for authenticity. Sex and relationship counselor Erin Chen shares insights on the importance of open conversations around sex and consent. Together, they encourage embracing awkwardness as a pathway to personal growth and deeper connections.

Aviv Regev, a pioneer in the Human Cell Atlas Project, discusses the mapping of human cells and its impact on personalized medicine. Brad Ringeisen explores how CRISPR technology is not only transforming healthcare but also agriculture for a more sustainable future. Aaron Morris highlights innovative techniques for diagnosing autoimmune diseases, showcasing the potential of technology in healthcare. Together, they delve into the future of biotechnology, examining its role in revolutionizing treatment and addressing climate challenges.