TED Radio Hour

Jonny Sun, a writer and illustrator, shares insights on loneliness and alienation. Susan Pinker, a developmental psychologist, discusses the significant health impacts of loneliness. Architect Grace Kim reveals her design of a co-housing community aimed at enhancing social connections. Writer Suleika Jaouad reflects on her experiences with illness and isolation while introducing the Isolation Journals project. Together, they explore how we can find peace with loneliness and the importance of fostering meaningful relationships in a disconnected world.

Guy Raz, former host of TED Radio Hour, dives into fascinating insights alongside forest ecologist Suzanne Simard, who discusses trees' remarkable underground teamwork. Denise Herzing reveals the complexity of dolphin communication from her 35-year research, showcasing their playful interactions. Writer AJ Jacobs shares his gratitude experiment, highlighting its transformative power. Together, they explore interconnectedness in nature, featuring everything from trees to dolphins, all while inspiring families to keep learning this summer.

Wang Hung, a Chinese writer, discusses cultural differences in crisis responses. He contrasts China's collective mindset with individualistic approaches in the U.S. Peter Singer, a Princeton bioethics professor, emphasizes effective altruism, highlighting initiatives that maximize global impact. Activist George Monbiot proposes a 'Great Reset' narrative to address social challenges by fostering cooperation. They explore the complex balance between personal sacrifice and the greater good, reflecting on how we can redefine community and altruism in times of crisis.

Whitney Pennington Rogers, TED's current affairs curator, leads a profound discussion on the complexities of ingrained racial injustice. The conversation delves into how systemic inequality affects communities economically and socially, challenging listeners to rethink narratives around figures like Rosa Parks. Emphasizing the importance of language and responsible journalism, they explore the emotional toll of current events while advocating for community resilience. Personal reflections and heartfelt readings provide a powerful context for understanding America’s racial reckoning.

Clint Smith, a writer, poet, and teacher, shares powerful insights on race and injustice in the wake of George Floyd's death. He discusses the challenges Black parents face in raising children amid systemic racism while highlighting the emotional weight of protests nationwide. Through personal anecdotes and poignant poetry, Clint emphasizes the importance of speaking one's truth and advocates for understanding America's racial legacy. He calls for collective resilience and unity in the fight against discrimination, inspiring listeners to reflect on their roles in fostering change.

Join OK Go's lead singer Damian Kulash Jr., known for their groundbreaking music videos, as he dives into the art of creative reinvention. Valorie Kondos Field, a former gymnastics coach, shares her transformative journey towards redefining success for athletes. Michael Tubbs, ex-mayor of Stockton, reveals innovative strategies for combating poverty and crime through community-driven initiatives. Billionaire Nick Hanauer critiques capitalism, urging a shift toward a fairer economy that supports everyone. Together, they explore the power of change and the potential for a better tomorrow.

Join climate pioneers Tom Rivett-Carnac, a key figure in the Paris Agreement, and Christiana Figueres, a staunch advocate for climate action, alongside youth activist Shia Bastida and author Oliver Jeffers. They discuss the critical shift toward 'stubborn optimism' to inspire collective action against climate change. The guests spotlight the parallels between the pandemic and climate crisis, urging unity and resilience. They also share personal journeys from despair to determined advocacy, envisioning a hopeful, sustainable future for generations to come.

Join David Biello, TED's science curator, as he takes listeners on a fascinating journey into uncharted territories from the cosmos to the deep ocean. Discover how our existence ties back to the stars and the significance of cosmic events like supernovae. Explore the groundbreaking search for microbial life on Mars and the innovative engineering of deep-sea submarines. Biello also delves into the neuropsychology of emotions, highlighting how science helps bridge the understanding of our complex relationships with the universe.

Join Emily Quinn, an intersex artist and activist, Molly Webster, a journalist exploring biological sex complexities, Lisa Mosconi, a neuroscientist focusing on women’s health, and Karissa Sanbonmatsu, a biologist researching epigenetics. They dive deep into the spectrum of biological sex, challenging the binary views and discussing the impacts of hormones on identity. Personal stories blend with scientific insights, illuminating the need for broader understanding and acceptance of gender identities beyond traditional frameworks.

Corey Hajim, TED's business curator, dives into how the pandemic has forced a reassessment of business values. He discusses the urgent need for a shift toward collaborative and regenerative economies, questioning traditional metrics like GDP. The conversation highlights innovative models of sustainability, including the donut model, and underscores the importance of community-focused leadership. Hajim also explores the growing recognition of well-being over profit and the rise of B Corps as symbols of a more equitable business landscape.