TED Radio Hour

Join Nour Rawafi, a NASA astrophysicist and project scientist for the Parker Solar Probe, as she reveals the sun's untold mysteries. Fusion expert Tammy Ma discusses the thrilling advancements in nuclear fusion and its promise for sustainable energy. Rebecca Collyer advocates for renewable energy, showcasing Morocco's pioneering solar projects. Finally, science journalist David Baron shares his awe of solar events and their impact on our lives. Together, they illuminate the sun’s significance and our future with solar power.

In this fascinating discussion, neuroscientist Greg Gage, known for his work on plant intelligence, joins computational neuroscientist Frances Chance, psychology professor Keely Muscatell, and environmental researcher Karen Bakker. They delve into the wonders of natural intelligence, from the intricate behaviors of honeybees to the sophisticated signaling of our immune system. The conversation highlights how these insights can inspire technology, inform environmental practices, and ultimately reshape our understanding of intelligence itself.

Kelly Corrigan, a bestselling author and podcaster, joins renowned couples psychologists Julie and John Gottman to discuss the courage required in relationships. They delve into the intricate dynamics of love, vulnerability, and conflict, exploring how authentic connections can weather life's storms. The Gottmans share insights from their research on couple dynamics, while Corrigan reflects on empathy and support in family relationships. Together, they emphasize the importance of navigating desires and building chosen families as essential elements of bravery in love.

Jill Heinerth, a renowned cave diver, shares thrilling tales of exploring underwater caves and the dangers they pose. Katrina Spade discusses eco-friendly death care, promoting human composting as a sustainable alternative to traditional methods. Soil scientist Asmeret Asefaw Berhe highlights the vital role of soil in climate change mitigation and encourages climate-smart practices. Lastly, Nizar Ibrahim reveals fascinating insights about Spinosaurus, uncovering its identity as a river-dwelling predator, challenging previous concepts in paleontology.

Reggie Watts, a creative force in comedy and music known for his improvisational flair, shares insights on spontaneity in art and life. Sonia Vallabh, a dedicated biomedical researcher, reflects on her personal journey with prion disease and the power of resilience through science. Kristine McDivitt Tompkins, a prominent conservationist, discusses her pivotal role in establishing national parks in South America, revealing the challenges of blending conservation with community needs. Together, they explore the delicate dance between planning, adapting, and improvising through life's uncertainties.

Anne Morriss, an executive coach specializing in trust and urgency, joins forces with economist Juliet Schor, a pioneer of the four-day work week. They discuss the transformative power of reducing work hours for well-being and productivity. Psychologist Azim Shariff explores how our moral perceptions of work shape culture, while political scientist Margaret Levi examines the resurgence of labor unions and their impact on workers' rights. Howie Kiebel shares insights from implementing a four-day work week at his restaurant, highlighting its success in boosting employee morale.

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.