TED Radio Hour

Clint Smith, a talented writer, scholar, and poet, shares profound insights reflecting on the death of George Floyd and its historical context. He discusses the power of voice and the importance of confronting silences in personal narratives. Highlighting the urgency for systemic change, Smith intertwines personal anecdotes with broader societal issues, advocating for ongoing activism. He also delves into the complexities of parenting as a Black father, emphasizing resilience, cultural identity, and the role of hope in navigating racial justice.

Jen Gunter, an OB-GYN and passionate advocate for women's health, tackles the complexities surrounding body awareness and health misinformation. She delves into breaking the taboos of topics like menstruation and gut health, emphasizing the importance of open conversations. Jen critiques the effect of language on perception and promotes the empowerment that comes from understanding our bodies. Additionally, she addresses the rise of health myths post-COVID, underscoring the necessity for transparent communication in healthcare.

Tanya Streeter, a former world champion freediver, shares her exhilarating insights on the power of breath in both sport and mindfulness. Andy Puddicombe, co-founder of Headspace, emphasizes how mindful breathing can transform our daily lives. Beth Gardiner discusses the urgent health impacts of air pollution, highlighting its effects on vulnerable communities. Paleontologist Emma Schachner unveils how dinosaur lung function contributed to their success, while Caro Verbeek intertwines art and scent history, revealing how smells evoke powerful memories.

In this engaging discussion, choreographer Camille A. Brown explores how social dance roots connect communities and evoke identity. Hollywood director Jon Chu shares his journey, emphasizing the significance of Asian American representation in film, particularly in projects like 'Crazy Rich Asians'. Meanwhile, South African poet Lee Mokobe discusses using poetry as a tool to tackle challenging subjects and empower youth. Together, they delve into art's transformative power and its role in addressing societal issues.

Danielle Citron, a law professor at Boston University, delves into the dark side of deepfakes and cyber harassment, revealing their devastating impact. Andrew Marantz, a writer for The New Yorker, explores the rise of misinformation and its connection to online extremism. Joy Buolamwini, founder of the Algorithmic Justice League, highlights algorithmic biases and the urgent need for ethical AI. Together, they confront the troubling ways technology manipulates truth, identity, and societal values, urging critical thinking in an age of digital deception.

Carolyn Freiwald, a bioarchaeologist, discusses the insights gained from analyzing human remains in an abandoned cemetery, revealing complex migration patterns. Isabel Wilkerson, a renowned author, delves into the transformative impact of the Great Migration, highlighting the resilience of African Americans seeking freedom and opportunity. Ecologist Sonia Altizer shares the incredible migration journeys of monarch butterflies, emphasizing their ecological significance and the urgent need for conservation amidst human threats. Together, they explore migration's profound impact on identity and culture.

Nora McInerny, a writer and podcaster celebrated for her poignant exploration of grief, dives deep into navigating life’s toughest moments. She shares her journey through loss, emphasizing the importance of confronting harsh realities instead of seeking easy explanations. With a blend of humor and honesty, Nora discusses the chronic nature of grief and the significance of community support. She critiques societal norms around toxic positivity, urging listeners to embrace authentic emotional expression while finding resilience amidst hardship.

In this insightful discussion, journalist Kathleen Day, who studies financial crises, joins financial advisor Tammy Lally, who shares her journey through financial hardship. Writer Elizabeth White sheds light on the economic struggles faced by older adults, while filmmaker Abigail Disney critiques corporate practices and highlights economic inequality. They explore the emotional toll of financial struggles, the historical cycles of optimism, and the pressing need for corporate responsibility, advocating for a more dignified financial future for all.

Greg Epstein, the Humanist chaplain at MIT and Harvard, shares his wisdom on navigating life's transitions and finding meaning during tough times. He discusses the idea of the 'neutral zone'—a stage for personal growth that encourages self-reflection. Listeners explore their own experiences of burnout and career frustration, prompting introspection about what truly matters in their lives. Epstein's insights aim to help individuals revitalize themselves and redefine success amidst complex societal shifts.

In this engaging discussion, guests include Guy Winch, a psychologist focusing on emotional wellbeing, Amanda Williams, a visual artist revitalizing urban spaces, biophysicist Andrew Pelling creating living tissues, and writer Wajahat Ali discussing the impact of declining birth rates. They explore pivotal strategies for overcoming burnout in healthcare, the transformative power of community art, and how innovative science can contribute to health. Together, they highlight the interplay of creativity and technology in revitalizing both people and communities.