TED Radio Hour

Join forager Alexis Nikole Nelson as she shares her joyful foraging adventures, reconnecting with nature and food roots. Chef Sean Sherman discusses revitalizing Indigenous cuisines and tackling food insecurity in marginalized communities. Social entrepreneur Jasmine Crowe reveals innovative logistics to combat food waste, while journalist Amanda Little explores sustainable solutions for food security. This engaging dialogue dives deep into the cultural ties of food and the urgent need for systemic changes to address hunger.

Steven Johnson, an acclaimed author specializing in science and innovation, discusses a remarkable fact: human life expectancy has doubled over the last century. He dives into the crucial breakthroughs in medicine, technology, and public health that have contributed to this transformation. Johnson examines the paradox of longevity, addressing the societal implications and intergenerational issues it raises. The conversation also explores exciting research aimed at further extending human life, encouraging listeners to consider the future of health and longevity.

Danielle Citron, a law professor focusing on privacy and technology, Andrew Marantz, a journalist exploring online extremism, and Joy Buolamwini, founder of the Algorithmic Justice League, discuss the dark side of deepfake technology. They reveal alarming cases of misinformation, its effects on individual lives, and the broader implications for democracy. The conversation illuminates the struggle between truth and deception in a digital age where AI biases can skew societal perceptions, stressing the need for accountability and justice in technology.

Join Jill Heinerth, a pioneering cave diver and climate advocate, as she shares thrilling underwater adventures that reveal Earth's hidden environments. Hear from Katrina Spade, who champions sustainable death care with her innovative human composting methods, turning remains into nutrient-rich soil. Asmeret Asefaw Berhe emphasizes soil’s vital role in combating climate change, discussing sustainable land management strategies. Together, they navigate our subterranean world, highlighting its profound connection to climate and our futures.

Carolyn Freiwald, a bioarchaeologist, uncovers migration stories through skeletal analysis, revealing rich histories. Isabel Wilkerson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, shares powerful narratives of the Great Migration, highlighting resilience amidst adversity. Ecologist Sonia Altizer discusses the alarming decline of monarch butterflies, linking their struggles to human impact while emphasizing conservation. Together, they explore how migration shapes identity, belonging, and ecosystems, reminding us that these journeys are integral to the human story.

Jason Reynolds, award-winning author and National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, shares insights on connecting with young readers through authentic storytelling. He discusses the importance of diverse narratives, drawing from his own experiences growing up and his journey from aspiring writer to bestseller. Reynolds emphasizes resilience in storytelling, particularly for marginalized youth, and how genuine interactions can foster trust. He also highlights lessons adults can learn from young people, especially in navigating modern challenges like mental health and social media.

Craig Richard, a physiologist and ASMR researcher, discusses how soothing sounds can provide emotional relief and comfort. Dylan Selterman, a psychologist, explores the impact of dreams on our daily lives, revealing their potential therapeutic benefits. Matteo Cerri, a hibernation expert, shares insights on how understanding animal hibernation might one day aid human medicine. Celeste Headlee emphasizes the importance of rest to combat the burden of overwork, advocating for a balanced approach to life amid our hectic schedules.

Join multi-instrumentalist Jacob Collier, known for his joyous music, as he discusses the importance of play in nurturing creativity and personal growth. Human rights activist Yana Buhrer Tavanier introduces 'playtivism,' highlighting how fun can combat burnout in activism. Stuart Duncan shares his journey of creating Autcraft, a supportive Minecraft server for autistic children, demonstrating how gaming fosters community and development. Together, they explore the vital balance of work, play, and rest in our lives.

Irma Olguin is a social entrepreneur and founder of Bitwise Industries, dedicated to bringing tech opportunities to underestimated cities. Kevin Roose, a tech reporter for The New York Times, dives deep into the impact of automation on the workforce. They discuss how recent global events have transformed our perceptions of work, emphasizing the rise of worker movements and the necessity of redefining success in the modern landscape. The challenges of automation and the importance of preserving uniquely human skills are also highlighted.

Alyssa Loorya, a historical archaeologist, dives into New York City’s layered history, revealing stories from its agrarian roots. Marwa Al-Sabouni, an architect from Homs, shares the resilience of communities amid conflict and the role of architecture in rebuilding social ties. Rahul Mehrotra discusses the Kumbh Mela, highlighting its sustainable urban design for millions, showcasing how temporary megacities can inspire future urban planning. Each conversation uncovers the dynamic evolution of cities and the lessons we can learn from their past.