TED Radio Hour

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.

Anne Lamott, a celebrated writer known for her candid reflections on love, faith, and the challenges of life, shares her journey through addiction and motherhood. She discusses the healing power of writing and how personal narratives shape our identities. Lamott opens up about her battle with addiction, the complexities of supporting loved ones, and the poignant themes of love and loss. Her insights touch on acceptance, resilience, and the transformative nature of grace, all wrapped in her signature humor and honesty.

David Suh, a portrait photographer known for boosting confidence in front of the camera, discusses the transformative power of photography in fostering authenticity and self-acceptance. Dolly Chugh, a social psychologist, delves into 'bounded ethicality,' revealing how moral identity shapes our perceptions. Journalist Elise Hu explores the global influence of Korean beauty standards on self-image, while science writer Anil Ananthaswamy examines the complex neuroscience behind self-identity, blending psychological insights with cultural narratives.

Join physician and pain management innovator Amy Baxter and equestrian athlete Kat Naud, who overcame a severe back injury. They dive into the brain's interpretation of pain, exploring revolutionary techniques that challenge opioid reliance. Baxter shares insights on innovative tools like the Buzzy device, while Naud recounts her inspiring journey from injury to recovery in competitive riding. Together, they emphasize the importance of psychological factors in pain perception and highlight new approaches to managing chronic pain.

Philip Johns, an evolutionary biologist studying urban otters in Singapore, shares fascinating insights about wildlife thriving in city landscapes. Avi Loeb, a Harvard astrophysicist, dives into the search for extraterrestrial life and the mysteries of interstellar objects, challenging scientific norms. Bestselling author Laurel Braitman explores the delicate balance of grief and joy, revealing how loss can illuminate life's treasures. Together, they discuss the intricate interplay of coexistence across species and the cosmos.

Join Gregory Hayworth, a textual scientist from the University of Rochester, as he shares groundbreaking methods to recover lost manuscripts through advanced imaging technology. Economist Ralph Chami advocates for valuing nature's services, emphasizing the ecological importance of whales. Microbiologist Fatima AlZahra'a Alatraktchi reveals innovations in early bacterial infection detection using nanosensors. Finally, polyglot Lýdia Machová encourages a joyful approach to language learning, highlighting its transformative power in communication.

Ethan Kross, a neuroscientist at the University of Michigan and author of "Shift," explores tools for managing overwhelming emotions. He discusses how self-talk, especially in the third person, can enhance clarity during stress. Kross uses the metaphor of Stradivarius violins to illustrate the intricacies of emotional regulation and highlights the importance of emotional management strategies in navigating life’s challenges. He also delves into the evolution of these methods, from ancient practices to modern techniques, emphasizing the need for both emotional expression and self-control.

Join beekeeper Noah Wilson-Rich, who dives into the buzzing life of urban bees and their crucial role in our ecosystem. Biologist Karen Bondar explores the fascinating world of avian reproduction, revealing the dedicated behaviors of bird mothers. Evolutionary biologist Marlene Zuk highlights the unique mating strategies of crickets, showcasing how sounds play a pivotal role in their survival. The intertwining narratives of bees, birds, and bugs showcase the wild complexities of nature's reproductive strategies.