TED Talks Daily

Lawrence Bernstein, a communication expert and seasoned speechwriter, shares insights on overcoming public speaking fears. He introduces the "coffee shop test" to help speak with ease and connect authentically. Bernstein emphasizes the importance of storytelling and emotional resonance, using real-life examples to illustrate how relatable narratives can engage audiences better. He also discusses transforming workshop dynamics to foster support and connection among participants, proving that public speaking can be as relaxed as a casual conversation.

Cara Hunter, a politician and victim of a deepfake scam, shares her harrowing experience just weeks before an election. She discusses the emotional toll of facing misinformation in her community and highlights the unique risks deepfakes pose, particularly to women in politics. Hunter advocates for responsible AI development, emphasizing the need for ethical technology to protect democracy and truth. She urges collaboration between society and technology to ensure that advancements serve the greater good, rather than undermine it.

Vidya Ramalingam, a counter-terrorism expert focused on disinformation's impact on violence, discusses the dangerous repercussions of online myths. She highlights how misinformation threatens climate scientists and can lead to real-world violence. Ramalingam introduces 'prebunking', a proactive method to empower people in recognizing and rejecting manipulative messaging before it spreads. She stresses the need for communities to adopt strategies to counteract false narratives, especially during critical events like elections.

Max Jaderberg is a research scientist at Isomorphic Labs, specializing in AI’s role in scientific breakthroughs. He discusses how AI analogs can dramatically reduce research time, compressing years of study into mere seconds. Jaderberg highlights AlphaFold’s impact on understanding protein folding and drug discovery, particularly in targeting cancer more effectively. He also delves into the broader implications of AI in overcoming challenges in scientific research, empowering scientists to push new frontiers in medicine and beyond.

Delve into the intriguing world of friendships and their complexities. A data scientist chats with an evolutionary psychologist about how many connections we really need. Discover how motherhood impacts social ties and the unique challenges of maintaining friendships during life’s transitions. Explore the fascinating concept of Dunbar's number and its effects on social circles. Personal stories highlight the joy of intergenerational friendships and the emotional work involved in mapping one's own social connections.

Thomas Dohmke, CEO of GitHub, shares insights on Europe's potential to lead in AI innovation. He discusses the vital shifts needed in the continent's tech ecosystem to compete with the US. Dohmke reflects on his journey from East Berlin to tech leadership, emphasizing the importance of a vibrant startup culture and thoughtful regulations. He challenges the notion of unchecked techno-optimism, advocating for a balanced view of technological progress. Additionally, he explores how AI tools like Copilot can transform coding and empower a new generation of developers.

Scarlet Keys, a talented musician and professor at the Berkeley College of Music, breaks down the magic behind our favorite songs. She explains how songwriters use melody, tone, and repetition to evoke emotions and trigger nostalgia. Scarlet highlights the power of music to transform ordinary moments into lasting memories, while also addressing its role in navigating personal struggles and fostering resilience. With insights drawn from popular artists like Adele, she showcases how music connects us and inspires hope.

Chef Sean Sherman, owner of The Sioux Chef, is a culinary pioneer dedicated to revitalizing Indigenous foods. He highlights the surprising absence of Native American restaurants and the rich culinary traditions that have been overlooked in mainstream cuisine. Sherman shares personal narratives about the historical impacts of colonialism on food culture, emphasizing the need for education and a deeper appreciation of Indigenous culinary practices. He advocates for sustainable agriculture and the importance of reconnecting with cultural heritage to promote healthier food relationships.

June Jo Lee, a food ethnographer, dives into the deep cultural and personal implications of our food choices. She discusses Gen Z's flavorful journey, revealing how they blend culinary creativity with sustainability and cultural pride. Lee highlights the growing importance of being present in our dining experiences while honoring individual preferences as a key to understanding identity. The conversation emphasizes how our 'modern hungers' influence not just what we eat, but how we connect with one another and shape the future of food.

In a compelling discussion, curiosity expert Scott Shigeoka shares his insights on how curiosity can heal societal divisions. He shares transformative experiences from his year-long road trip across the U.S., meeting people with opposing views, including Trump supporters. Shigeoka emphasizes the power of questions to foster empathy and understanding, arguing that recognizing our shared humanity can bridge significant divides. He also reflects on how curiosity played a crucial role in his journey through mental health challenges, advocating for compassion and connection.