

TED Radio Hour
NPR
Exploring the biggest questions of our time with the help of the world's greatest thinkers. Host Manoush Zomorodi inspires us to learn more about the world, our communities, and most importantly, ourselves.Get more brainy miscellany with TED Radio Hour+. Your subscription supports the show and unlocks a sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/ted
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 11, 2020 • 50min
Esther Perel: Building Resilient Relationships
Esther Perel, a renowned couples and family therapist, shares her insights on building resilient relationships. She discusses navigating love in today's world, emphasizing the importance of trust, intimacy, and the impact of shared trauma. Perel highlights how modern expectations have evolved, urging couples to seek support beyond their romantic partners. She also delves into the complexities of infidelity and the potential for healing, while stressing the significance of relationships in the workplace and the need for emotional skills in fostering community.

Sep 4, 2020 • 1h 23min
Finding Another Way
Shaka Senghor, a former inmate turned author, and Ebony Roberts, his co-parenting partner, discuss the complexities of love and parenting after incarceration. They share valuable insights on prioritizing their child's well-being amidst adult challenges. Zoologist Lucy King introduces a groundbreaking solution to human-elephant conflict using beehives, promoting coexistence with nature. Meanwhile, Jad Abumrad dives into the power of storytelling for conflict resolution, highlighting the importance of diverse narratives in bridging societal divides.

Aug 28, 2020 • 49min
Listen Again: Pure Joy
Join Helen Walters, TED's Head Curator, as she leads a vibrant exploration of joy amidst life’s challenges. Dive into talks that redefine joy through creativity and whimsical innovations. Discover how music can transform our experiences and the power of laughter in bringing us together. The conversation touches on the struggle against procrastination, humorously embodied by the 'panic monster.' This uplifting journey encourages embracing failures and cherishing everyday moments, reminding us of the beauty of pure joy.

Aug 21, 2020 • 49min
Lessons From The Summer
Join Tom Rivett-Carnac, a climate change policy expert, as he discusses the urgent need for action amid environmental crises. Danielle Allen, a Harvard political philosopher, emphasizes the delicate balance between freedom and collective responsibility. Vaccine advocate Heidi Larson addresses the challenges posed by misinformation, urging trust in public health initiatives. Finally, poet Clint Smith reflects on the emotional impact of the Black Lives Matter protests, highlighting the ongoing struggle for racial justice and the transformative lessons of summer 2020.

20 snips
Aug 14, 2020 • 50min
Listen Again: The Biology Of Sex
Emily Quinn, an intersex artist and activist, shares personal stories about navigating gender expectations. Molly Webster, a radio journalist, explores the complexities of biological sex and the historical evolution of gender identity. Neuroscientist Lisa Mosconi discusses how hormones impact women's brain function, while structural biologist Karissa Sanbonmatsu investigates the role of epigenetics in gender identity. Together, they challenge the binary notion of sex, advocating for a deeper understanding of human identity as a spectrum.

Aug 7, 2020 • 49min
Our Relationship With Water
Kelsey Leonard, a water policy expert and member of the Shinnecock Nation, shares insights on the spiritual significance of water and the pressing global crisis. Visual artist LaToya Ruby Frazier discusses the ongoing impact of Flint’s water contamination, emphasizing the need for authentic representation in addressing these issues. They explore the connection between water conservation and systemic injustices, advocating for the legal rights of water to protect both ecosystems and marginalized communities.

Jul 31, 2020 • 50min
Processing The Pandemic
Laurel Braitman, a TED Fellow and writer, leads workshops for healthcare workers to help them navigate stress and trauma. In this discussion, she addresses the emotional toll of the pandemic on healthcare professionals, particularly highlighting the dual struggles of caring for patients while confronting societal injustices. Braitman emphasizes the healing power of reflective writing and the importance of community support. She also sheds light on the necessity of open discussions about mental health and the role of vulnerability in fostering connection during challenging times.

Jul 24, 2020 • 50min
The Power Of Spaces
Join Michael Murphy, architect and founder of Mass Design Group, as he discusses how structures can promote healing. David Byrne, of Talking Heads fame, shares insights on how performance spaces influence music. Es Devlin, a celebrated artist, emphasizes the importance of audience experience in her designs. Lastly, Siamak Hariri, known for the Bahá'í Temple of South America, explores how architecture evokes emotional responses, shaping human connections with our environments. Together, they reveal the profound impact of spaces on our lives.

Jul 17, 2020 • 50min
Listen Again: What We Value
Corey Hajim, TED's business curator, dives into how the pandemic has prompted a revaluation of business's role in society. He emphasizes the need for a shift toward ethical practices that prioritize collective well-being over mere economic growth. Exploring the circular economy, he discusses innovative models that promote sustainability and community investment. Hajim also challenges the hero culture in leadership, advocating for collaboration and open communication to inspire a more equitable future. It's a thought-provoking call to action for businesses and consumers alike.

Jul 10, 2020 • 49min
Making Amends
Brent Leggs, a preservationist committed to safeguarding Black historical sites, discusses the importance of acknowledging America's racial history. Martha Minow, a law professor, advocates for restorative justice as a means to reshape the criminal justice system. Dawn Wacek highlights how eliminating library late fees can improve access for low-income families. V, the playwright formerly known as Eve Ensler, explores the significance of sincere apologies in healing personal and societal wounds, emphasizing the profound impact they can have on communities.