TED Radio Hour

Jason Reynolds, an award-winning author and National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, discusses the transformative power of children's stories in shaping identity and resilience. He shares his journey from early setbacks to bestseller status, emphasizing perseverance. Reynolds highlights the significance of authenticity in engaging with younger audiences and the importance of open dialogue about contemporary issues like mental health and identity. He also stresses learning from youth to foster hope and better understanding in today’s challenges.

A.J. Jacobs, a renowned writer and TED speaker known for his unique self-experimental approach, shares his journey of gratitude in the podcast. He recounts his quest to thank everyone involved in the making of his morning coffee, revealing an endless gratitude chain. Jacobs emphasizes how recognizing small acts of kindness can enhance emotional well-being and foster community. He highlights the link between gratitude, storytelling, and happiness, advocating for daily practices that shift our focus from what we lack to appreciating life's gifts.

This episode features Alexis Nikole Nelson, a forager and TikTok influencer, Sean Sherman, chef and founder of The Sioux Chef, Jasmine Crowe, social entrepreneur behind Goodr, and environmental journalist Amanda Little. They dive into urban foraging and its cultural significance, the revival of Indigenous culinary traditions, and the urgent need for systemic changes to combat hunger. The conversation also covers the innovative practices shaping the future of food security amid climate challenges. Tune in for a feast of ideas!

Join Esther Perel, a renowned couples and family therapist, as she shares her insights on building resilient relationships amidst life's challenges. She explores the transformative power of communication during crises and delves into the complex dance between intimacy and desire in modern love. Perel candidly discusses infidelity, emphasizing the potential for personal growth and deeper connections post-betrayal. She also highlights the vital role of resilience in workplace dynamics, illustrating how personal relationships shape our professional lives.

Elise Hu, a journalist and host of TED Talks Daily, dives deep into the evolving standards of beauty and their societal implications. She examines how beauty norms, particularly in South Korea, influence individual identities and financial decisions. The conversation uncovers the damaging effects of social media on young women’s self-image and promotes initiatives like the As She Is Challenge, which fosters natural beauty. Hu also highlights the contrasting beauty perceptions of indigenous cultures and advocates for a more inclusive approach to feminine aesthetics and identity.

Zoologist Lucy Cooke shares insights about sloths, emphasizing the beauty of their slow lifestyles. Neuroscientist Matthew Walker dives into the critical role of sleep on health, offering tips to enhance sleep quality. Architect Julia Watson highlights the wisdom in indigenous designs, showcasing sustainable solutions like living root bridges. NASA engineer Nagin Cox discusses the peculiarities of adapting to Martian time, reflecting on teamwork and patience. Together, they explore the value of taking time to appreciate life's rhythms and nurture personal connections.

Shaka Senghor, an author and activist who turned his life around after 19 years in prison, shares insights on resilience and conflict resolution. Alongside him, Ebony Roberts discusses their innovative co-parenting approach after separation, highlighting effective communication and friendship over traditional expectations. Zoologist Lucy King introduces her creative beehive solution for human-elephant conflicts in Kenya, while Jad Abumrad delves into the power of storytelling, advocating for empathy and understanding in bridging diverse perspectives.

Saleem Reshamwala, a journalist and filmmaker known for his work on the podcast Far Flung, takes listeners on a cultural adventure. He explores the vibrant Afro bubblegum movement in Nairobi, celebrating joy and challenging stereotypes. The discussion also covers language preservation through the lens of Peruvian hip-hop and reveals astonishing dinosaur discoveries in New Jersey. Saleem emphasizes how travel and storytelling can transform perspectives, inviting everyone to connect with diverse cultures and histories from afar.

Shari Davis, a community organizer known for her work in participatory budgeting, and Eli Pariser, a researcher who coined the term 'filter bubble,' dive into the importance of creating inclusive public spaces. They discuss how participatory budgeting empowers communities to shape their environments and fosters trust among residents. Pariser highlights the need for intentional design in digital spaces to combat isolation and enhance public discourse. Together, they emphasize the role of both physical and online spaces in cultivating community connections.

Join artist and activist Emily Quinn as they share insights into their intersex identity, challenging societal norms. Radio journalist Molly Webster dives into the complexities of biological sex, urging listeners to reconsider simplistic definitions. Neuroscientist Lisa Mosconi discusses the intricate links between hormones, the brain, and women's health. Lastly, structural biologist Karissa Sanbonmatsu explores how epigenetics might influence biological sex and gender identity. Together, they unravel the multifaceted nature of sex beyond the binary.