TED Radio Hour

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.

In this engaging discussion, MIT sociologist Sherry Turkle explores the profound effects of artificial intimacy on human relationships. She examines how AI, including chatbots, fulfills emotional needs, potentially reshaping our understanding of companionship. With insights on digital twins and the ethics surrounding them, Turkle delves into our attachment to AI-generated interactions. She also highlights the importance of facing real-life relational challenges over superficial tech connections, prompting a reflection on genuine human bonds in a technology-driven world.

Forensic scientist, author, dog trainer, and wildlife analyst explore crimes in the animal kingdom, including vulture behavior in investigations, bears breaking the law, and training dogs to detect scents. They discuss cases like burglaries in Aspen and anti-poaching efforts in Zambia.

In this discussion, guests Abby Wambach, a legendary soccer player, and Sian Bylock, a cognitive scientist, dive into the mental game behind sports. Wambach shares insights from her iconic 2011 World Cup performance, emphasizing resilience and teamwork. Bylock explains the phenomenon of 'choking' under pressure and offers strategies to combat anxiety. Sports journalist Kate Fagan discusses the need for equitable coverage of women's sports, while Sarah Lewis redefines success as a continuous journey of mastery. They all highlight how sports psychology can enhance daily life.

Physicist, engineer, humanitarian programmer, builder, and videographer share empowering stories of taking control to solve problems. Topics include media sensationalism, DIY ethos, individual activism, empowering women in construction trades, and unexpected success on TikTok.

MIT sociologist Sherry Turkle discusses 'artificial intimacy' with AI chatbots. They explore the therapeutic benefits and emotional connections individuals form with AI bots, questioning the significance of realness in relationships with technology. The podcast delves into the complexities of human-AI relationships and the impact of artificial intimacy on mental health.

Join chef Sam Kass, farmers Jim and Jessica Whitaker Allen, biotechnologist Isha Datar, and artist Sam Van Aken as they discuss the changing world of food production on a warming planet. Topics include climate-friendly diets, sustainable agriculture, cultivated meat, and innovative projects bridging food and art.