TED Talks Daily

Catherine Nakalembe, a satellite food security specialist and TED Fellow, discusses using satellite imagery and machine learning to aid smallholder farmers in Africa. She reveals how her work helps predict floods and droughts, adapting technology to local needs. Catherine shares her innovative use of GoPros for collecting crop data and the challenges of transferring high-tech data to farmers on the ground. She emphasizes the importance of engaging local knowledge and building capacity to turn data into actionable insights, ensuring farmers can effectively respond to agricultural risks.

Troy Vincent Sr., a former NFL All-Pro cornerback turned NFL executive, champions the flag football movement as a breakthrough for girls and young women. He highlights the sport's rapid growth and its upcoming debut at the 2028 Olympics, emphasizing its role in promoting inclusivity. Vincent shares personal stories of exclusion in sports while advocating for equal opportunities. He encourages communities to initiate girls' flag programs and discusses the invaluable life skills gained through football, urging listeners to let young women dream and thrive.

Sustainability strategist Mohamed A. Sultan dives into the urgent issue of methane emissions from landfills in Africa. He reveals how community-driven projects are diverting waste, creating jobs, and transforming local economies. Sultan discusses the immediate climate benefits of reducing methane, emphasizing its potency compared to CO2. He showcases innovative solutions, like Durban's composting initiative and sustainable rice farming practices, which not only combat emissions but also foster livable cities. His insights highlight a win-win approach to tackling climate change.

Oz Pearlman, a renowned mentalist known for his engaging performances, shares his insights into the world of mentalism as a skill anyone can learn. He discusses the power of observation in 'reading people' rather than minds, and demonstrates techniques to remember names effectively. Pearlman invites audience members to participate in live demonstrations, revealing choices through subtle cues. With a blend of storytelling and practical tips, he empowers listeners to enhance their communication and connection with others.

Claudia Passos Ferreira, a philosopher and clinical psychologist, unveils captivating insights into infant consciousness. She challenges the myth that newborns are passive, presenting research that suggests they may possess awareness from birth. Groundbreaking neuroscience reveals newborns' brain signals indicate conscious experiences, showcasing adult-like surprise responses. Claudia discusses the implications for medical ethics, such as anesthesia for newborns. This thought-provoking exploration reshapes our understanding of early human perception and consciousness.

Maya Shankar, a cognitive scientist and the host of A Slight Change of Plans, dives into the complexities of unexpected life changes. She discusses how such changes can feel threatening, highlighting the fear of uncertainty and loss. Sharing personal stories, Maya introduces three insightful questions to help reframe our perspectives on transformation. By illustrating how change can enhance capabilities and redefine values, she encourages listeners to embrace the opportunities that come with life’s unpredictability.

Katie Hood, a relationship expert with One Love, discusses the critical differences between healthy and unhealthy love. She outlines five warning signs of unhealthy relationships, including extreme jealousy and isolation. Hood emphasizes that love can be learned and practiced, sharing practical steps to cultivate respect and kindness in all types of relationships. Her insights encourage listeners to assess their connections and strive for healthier, more joyful interactions.

César Ramírez-Sarmiento, a protein engineer and 2025 TED Fellow from Santiago, explores the revolutionary impact of AI on protein design. He discusses how AI boosts success rates in creating proteins for biomedical and environmental challenges. César shares his unique journey from art to science, emphasizing creativity in problem-solving. He highlights the potential of AI-designed enzymes for cleaning up plastic waste and envisions a thriving Latin American community of protein engineers tackling regional environmental issues.

Matt Pitcher, a former financial planner with over a decade of experience guiding UK lottery winners, shares insights on the impact of sudden wealth. He discusses how unexpected riches can disrupt life balance, sparking jealousy and difficult family dynamics. Pitcher also explores the allure of consumerism, showcasing stories like that of a winner who prioritizes flashy purchases. Yet, he highlights the potential for deeper meaning, as some couples transform their winnings into fulfilling family experiences, prompting a reevaluation of values and happiness.

Esther Duflo, a Nobel Prize-winning economist, lays out a compelling case for taxing the wealthy to combat climate change. She reveals that rising temperatures will disproportionately affect poor countries, costing them $1.7 trillion annually due to emissions. Duflo discusses how a 3% wealth tax on the richest could generate significant revenue for climate adaptation efforts. She emphasizes the urgent need for direct cash transfers to those affected and proposes a new global agreement to restore trust in climate action among nations.