TED Talks Daily

What if you could sing like your favorite artist? Holly Herndon introduces a groundbreaking AI instrument called Holly+ that allows users to mimic her voice. A live demonstration showcases this technology, revealing new dimensions in music creation. The discussion dives into 'spawning,' an AI technique creating unique sounds from existing vocal recordings, raising fascinating questions about identity and intellectual property. Finally, the episode beautifully captures the emotional connection of live music, blending human and digital vocals.

Travel back to the Jurassic era as paleontologist Dean R. Lomax reveals the thrilling excavation of a giant ichthyosaur fossil in Britain. Discover the meticulous methods used to unearth this colossal creature, measuring an astonishing 10 meters long. Learn how modern technology is revolutionizing paleontology and enabling the extraction of delicate bones. This significant find not only adds to British history but also showcases the excitement and challenges of paleontological exploration in our quest to understand prehistoric life.

Wanuri Kahiu, a TED Fellow and acclaimed filmmaker, challenges conventional narratives about Africa by introducing AfroBubbleGum art, which celebrates joy and creativity. She advocates for vibrant, lighthearted storytelling that reflects life’s full spectrum rather than focusing solely on serious issues. Kahiu emphasizes the importance of artistic expressions that showcase cultural richness and identity, aiming to reshape perceptions of Africa and highlight its artistic vibrancy.

Katherine Mangu-Ward, a journalist known for her advocacy of free markets, argues that unrestrained innovation is crucial for progress. She challenges common criticisms of capitalism, emphasizing how failures are essential to rejuvenate markets. Mangu-Ward analyzes General Motors and Facebook, showing how government intervention often complicates corporate successes. She advocates for a system where creativity flourishes without excessive regulation, suggesting that the 'weirdos' of the market are our best hope for the future.

Discover how unconscious biases can affect the treatment of chronic pain, especially for marginalized groups. Hear personal stories that reveal the impacts of being dismissed by healthcare professionals. The discussion emphasizes the unique pain experiences of women and minorities, calling for greater empathy and support in medical care. Learn about the importance of integrative medicine in understanding pain and the need for doctors to reflect on their approaches to patient care.

Heejae Lim, an education technology entrepreneur and TED Fellow, discusses the crucial yet overlooked role families play in education. She highlights the challenges immigrant and underserved families face due to communication barriers. By showcasing innovative mobile technology, she demonstrates how schools can enhance family involvement, creating stronger connections that drive student success. Lim argues that with the right tools, the love and commitment of families can be leveraged to improve educational outcomes for all students.

Miguel A. Modestino, a sustainable engineering researcher, dives into the innovative world of electrochemical engineering. He reveals how his team is pioneering methods to shift chemical production away from fossil fuels. By harnessing electrical energy for new chemical reactions, they aim to significantly reduce carbon footprints in manufacturing. Modestino discusses the potential impacts of this technology on the economy, natural resources, and the fight against climate change, offering a hopeful glimpse into a more sustainable future.

In this insightful talk, digital creator Dylan Marron shares his journey of confronting online hate with empathy. Known for his engaging projects, he explains how he often calls out critics to understand their motives. Marron emphasizes the power of dialogue over debate, illustrating how transformational conversations can arise even from discomfort. By blending humor with vulnerability, he advocates for connecting with those who oppose us, highlighting that empathy can coexist with disagreement.

In a heartfelt conversation, diabetes advocate Brooke Bennett shares her personal journey with type 1 diabetes and the exorbitant costs of insulin in the US. She highlights the dire consequences faced by those who can’t afford this life-saving medication, offering poignant stories of rationing and survival. Brooke passionately calls for affordable insulin, bringing awareness to the emotional and financial burdens that chronic illness imposes on millions. Her insights serve as a rallying cry for change in healthcare practices.

Discover how neuroscientist Sergiu P. Pasca is revolutionizing brain research with brain 'assembloids'—self-organizing neural tissue that could unlock the mysteries of the human brain. Learn about transformative techniques that turn skin cells into brain cells and what these advances mean for premature infants and neurological conditions. Delve into the ethical questions surrounding organoid research as we explore the future of treatments for autism and Alzheimer's. A fascinating journey into the world of neurobiology awaits!