TED Radio Hour

In this engaging discussion, guests Catie Cuan, a robot choreographer, and Hugh Herr, an MIT professor and expert in prosthetics, share insights on blending technology with human experience. Anna Maria Coclite, a materials scientist, unveils her groundbreaking work on artificial skin that mimics touch, while Jennifer Doudna reveals the revolutionary potential of CRISPR in health. Together, they explore how advancements in robotics, prosthetics, and genetics can enhance human capabilities and redefine our relationship with technology.

Yuko Munakata, a developmental psychologist, shares insights on the complex interplay of nature and nurture in child development. Andy Dunn, a former CEO and advocate for bipolar disorder awareness, discusses the dual challenges of parenting and mental health. They highlight personal growth, the unpredictability of parenting, and the societal impact of mental health in high-pressure environments. The conversation also touches on the ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence and the need for human oversight to align AI with societal values.

Hajer Sharief, a human rights activist and co-founder of the Together We Build It Foundation, shares her family’s unique approach to teamwork. Amy Edmondson, a Harvard Business School professor, emphasizes the importance of psychological safety for effective collaboration in high-stakes environments. Pete Stavros, co-head of global private equity at KKR, discusses how broad-based employee ownership can enhance worker satisfaction and drive company performance. Together, they unveil surprising insights into successful teamwork dynamics.

Jennifer Vail, a tribologist, shares fascinating insights about how friction impacts our daily lives, from vehicle safety to dental health. Yaël Eisenstadt, a Facebook whistleblower, discusses the need for slower tech to tackle misinformation and the importance of thoughtful digital interaction. David Moinina Sengeh, Sierra Leone's Minister of Education, talks about innovation in prosthetics, highlighting the balance between technology and personal relationships. Together, they explore friction's multifaceted role in social discourse and personal connections.

Join costume designer Machine Dazzle, known for his whimsical creations, journalist Amanda Mull from Bloomberg, and supermodel Cameron Russell as they dive into the complexities of fashion. They discuss the clash between maximalism and minimalism, the environmental toll of fast fashion, and the challenges of online shopping returns. Cameron shares her insights on labor issues within the industry, while Amanda highlights the responsibility of consumers. Together, they explore the need for intentional fashion choices and the importance of solidarity in driving change.

Join comedian Lilly Singh, known for her YouTube fame and late-night antics, along with Nadya Tolokonnikova from Pussy Riot and award-winning actor Sarah Jones as they explore the power of loud voices. They discuss the rewards and backlash of challenging cultural norms, particularly as women and activists. Lilly shares her journey as a South Asian woman in entertainment, while Nadya recounts Pussy Riot's defiance against political repression. Sarah highlights the importance of representation in storytelling, emphasizing the impact of diverse and bold narratives.

Becky Kennedy, a clinical psychologist and parenting expert, shares transformative insights on emotional resilience and open communication in family dynamics. Alua Arthur, a death doula, emphasizes the importance of embracing mortality and discussing death with loved ones to foster deeper connections. Valérie Courtois, an advocate for Indigenous-led conservation, highlights how understanding our environmental relationships can lead to healing. Together, they explore repairing bonds and the necessity of vulnerability in navigating life's most challenging moments.

Ken Lacovara, a paleontologist and founder of a new museum in New Jersey, takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of dinosaurs. He reveals insights about the asteroid impact that led to extinction and emphasizes the critical role of fossil sites in New Jersey. The excitement of uncovering fossils, like a femur with shark bite marks, paints a picture of prehistoric life. Lacovara also discusses the importance of public engagement in preserving history and inspiring future generations to connect with our planet's deep past.

Regina Barber, a dynamic host who connects with scientists, sits down with two expert cosmologists to unravel the Big Bang theory. They explore how this concept isn’t just a single moment but a significant period in the universe's history. The discussion highlights the cosmic microwave background and its revolutionary implications for understanding the early universe. Listeners will discover how the universe cooled and evolved, shedding light on its origins and the ongoing mysteries that captivate scientists today.

Jonna Mendez, a former CIA Chief of Disguise with a legendary career in espionage, shares gripping tales of her covert operations during the Cold War. Holly Herndon, an artist pushing the boundaries of machine learning, discusses the ethical complexities of AI-generated voices. Anthropologist Mary L. Gray exposes the unseen labor behind online services, while digital fashion designer Gala Marija Vrbanic explores how technology is revolutionizing identity through virtual clothing. Together, they unravel the intricate layers of disguise in our digital and physical realities.