On Being with Krista Tippett

A fresh season kicks off with heartfelt conversations exploring the beauty and courage of being human. Insights from music icon Bon Iver, Mohawk elder Katsi Cook, and writer Jason Reynolds illuminate paths of love and understanding. The discussions touch on generational connections and the shared trauma we carry. There's an emphasis on agency and calm amidst current challenges, inviting listeners to reflect and reconnect as a community. This season offers a chance to engage deeply with life's pressing questions and embrace collective healing.

In a cherished conversation, celebrated poet Nikki Giovanni reflects on her profound influence within the Black Arts Movement and her resilience post-Virginia Tech tragedy. She explores the historical role of women in unifying enslaved communities, and the healing power of poetry in social change. Giovanni also candidly discusses love's complexities and the essence of aging, urging listeners to embrace their personal journeys while honoring the resilience of the Black community. Her warmth and wisdom continue to inspire, even in tumultuous times.

Joan Baez, the iconic singer-songwriter and activist, reflects on her journey as the voice of a generation and her role in the Civil Rights Movement. She shares her personal struggles with trauma and healing, linking them to activism and the significance of music in enacting change. Baez discusses her evolving relationship with Bob Dylan and the revival of her classic, "Diamonds and Rust." At 83, she embraces aging while promoting resilience and joy, illustrating the powerful interplay between her art and life experiences.

adrienne maree brown is an author and activist known for her influential concepts of pleasure activism and emergent strategy. In this engaging conversation, she discusses the importance of radical imagination and how it fosters joy and transformative change amidst life's challenges. She explores how nature offers lessons for community building and activism, emphasizing adaptable, interconnected approaches. Additionally, she critiques punitive justice systems, advocating for healing-centered solutions, ultimately highlighting the synergy between creativity, social justice, and personal empowerment.

Poet Laureate Ada Limón discusses her poem 'The End of Poetry' exploring themes of nature, spirituality, grief, and authentic human connections. Hear her passionate plea for connection and how language failed her in this emotional piece.

Atul Gawande, a renowned surgeon and writer, discusses the profound implications of mortality in healthcare. He explores the societal shift towards hospice care and the tensions created by medical technology in confronting death. Gawande emphasizes redefining medicine to prioritize well-being over mere survival. Personal stories illustrate the importance of meaningful conversations between patients and doctors. He also shares the transformative question that shaped his practice: 'What does a good day look like?' highlighting the value of living fully in the face of mortality.

Poet and author Elizabeth Alexander shares a poignant poem asking if we are of interest to each other, prompting reflection on human connection. The discussion explores the essence of poetry, authenticity, and the complexity of human relationships.

Luis Alberto Urrea discusses the deep meaning of borders, challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusivity. He shares personal experiences, humor, and messiness in navigating contemporary challenges. The conversation explores diverse literary works, cultural identity, humanizing tools, and the vivid symbolism of the Mexican-American border.

Ross Gay, a poet and essayist, discusses the paradox of joy in a world of suffering, emphasizing the importance of advocating for what we love. He explores the practice of delight as a spiritual discipline and the power of finding joy in small moments. The conversation delves into fostering community through kindness, the significance of gardening, and resisting societal norms. Ross shares insights on redefining justice as uplifting what we cherish, focusing on love, joy, and tenderness as essential components of a more compassionate world.

Biomimicry pioneer Janine Benyus and creative practitioner Azita Ardakani Walton discuss nature's guidance, healing from trauma, functioning like an ecosystem, and making a real kinship offering to the world. They explore mimicking nature in projects, historical ecological shifts, balancing command-control and adaptability in organizations, the moral paradox of capitalism, connectivity design, and communication in nature, and the intersection of biomimicry and humanitarian ventures.