TED Talks Daily

Susan David, a renowned psychologist and TED speaker, discusses the art of regaining control in turbulent times. She emphasizes the importance of routines and habits for mental well-being. David encourages embracing humor and perspective shifts to navigate uncertainty. Listeners learn practical strategies to reclaim a sense of predictability, even amidst chaos. With a focus on grace and compassion, she highlights how small changes can significantly impact our coping mechanisms during unpredictable periods.

Lindsay Morcom, a passionate linguist and advocate for Indigenous heritage, sheds light on the dire state of Indigenous languages in North America. She discusses grassroots strategies utilized by the Anishinaabe people of Canada to revive their language and strengthen community identity. Morcom also delves into the historical trauma caused by residential schools, emphasizing the urgent need for policy changes to protect these languages. Through educational initiatives and community engagement, she outlines a hopeful path towards revitalizing Indigenous languages and cultures.

Sleep scientist Matt Walker dives into why sleep has never mattered more. He explains the vital connection between sleep and immune health, especially in stressful times like a pandemic. Myths about melatonin and sleep aids are debunked, revealing the truth behind what really helps and harms our sleep. Walker shares practical strategies to enhance sleep quality, emphasizing its profound impact on creativity, memory, and emotional stability. Tune in for insights that could transform your rest and overall health!

Laurie Santos, a Yale University psychology professor and host of 'The Happiness Lab', dives into the intriguing world of decision-making by studying our primate relatives. She reveals how monkeys make irrational financial choices similar to humans, exploring the concept of 'monkeynomics'. The discussion includes behavioral biases like loss aversion and examines whether our poor decisions are rooted in environmental factors or intrinsic flaws. Santos also suggests that technology could help us better navigate these evolutionary quirks in decision-making.

Danielle Allen, a Harvard professor and political theorist, tackles the dual crises of public health and the economy during the pandemic. She advocates for 'smart testing' technologies to ethically manage COVID-19 while reigniting economic activity. Discussions highlight the importance of privacy in contact tracing apps and the need for collaboration among government levels to secure funding for recovery. Allen emphasizes that a balanced approach is vital to ensure fairness and resilience in society as we navigate these challenges.

In this insightful conversation, family law professor Jeannie Suk Gersen shares her expertise on how understanding divorce can bolster marriages. She emphasizes the importance of discussing expectations and sacrifices early on to prevent resentment. Gersen introduces three key concepts that can reshape marital dynamics, such as open communication and shared ownership. By exploring the reasons behind divorce, she provides couples with valuable insights to foster healthier, more enduring relationships.

Elizabeth Gilbert, the bestselling author of "Eat, Pray, Love," shares her insights on navigating anxiety and grief. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion during isolation, encouraging listeners to embrace their feelings with curiosity. Gilbert explores the balance between passion and curiosity, advocating for emotional sobriety and community solidarity. She highlights the therapeutic power of writing letters to oneself, and concludes with a celebration of connection and the resilience found in shared experiences, reminding us that we’re not alone in these turbulent times.

Yifat Susskind, a passionate women's rights activist, shares her insights on how thinking like a mother can guide us through global crises. She connects personal stories, like her reflections on 9/11, to highlight the importance of nurturing and prioritizing collective needs. By embracing a maternal mindset, Susskind illustrates how individual actions can spark transformative social change. Her perspective encourages care, empathy, and resilience, urging us to build a better world together.

Alexandra Auer, an industrial designer known for her TEDxEindhoven talk, explores the profound effects of walls on society. She argues that barriers, both physical and psychological, foster divisions and biases. Auer shares insights from her project investigating the impact of a fence between two schools, revealing how it influences children's perspectives. She emphasizes the importance of dismantling these mental walls to promote understanding and unity, urging us to recognize our shared humanity amidst rising separations.

Ethan Lisi, an advocate for autism awareness, shares his personal journey with autism, emphasizing that it offers a unique perspective rather than being a disease. He dispels myths about common behaviors like stimming and masking, illuminating the complexities of the autistic experience. Lisi discusses the societal challenges faced by individuals with autism, highlighting sensory overload and social dynamics. He advocates for greater understanding and acceptance, encouraging a view of autism as a natural part of human diversity.