

TED Health
TED
What does exercise do to your brain? Can psychedelics treat depression? From smart daily habits to new medical breakthroughs, welcome to TED Health, with host Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider. TED speakers answer questions you never even knew you had, and share ideas you won't hear anywhere else, all around how we can live healthier lives.Follow Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider on Instagram at @shoshanamd and LinkedIn at @shoshanaungerleidermdInterested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links:TEDNext: ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 10, 2025 • 27min
How Texas became America’s biggest producer of wind energy | Speed & Scale
Pat Wood, former chair of the Texas Public Utility Commission, shares how Texas transformed from an oil giant to a wind energy leader. He recounts how innovative energy policies and bipartisan support propelled renewable sources. Wood discusses the significant public backing for wind energy, the creation of the Renewable Portfolio Standard, and a massive $7 billion investment in transmission infrastructure that unlocked vast wind capacity. His pragmatic approach sheds light on how market dynamics, not just climate goals, drove this clean energy revolution.

Oct 7, 2025 • 41min
Interview: The life-saving secrets in your baby's DNA | Robert C. Green
Dr. Robert C. Green, a pioneering medical geneticist, discusses the revolutionary BabySeq Project, the first to sequence the DNA of healthy infants. He reveals that 4% to 12% of newborns carry actionable mutations, which can lead to early interventions. Green shares heartwarming family stories demonstrating the impact of early diagnosis and emphasizes the importance of making genomic testing accessible to all parents. He also tackles privacy concerns and advocates for ongoing genomic reanalysis, envisioning a future where genetics and AI transform preventive healthcare.

16 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 8min
Collagen's dirty secret — and its clean future | Fei Luo
Fei Luo, a chemical engineer and the founder of Liven, explores the untold truths of collagen sources. She discusses her innovative approach to brewing animal-free collagen using genetically modified yeast, a game-changer for both food and cosmetics. Luo also explains how traditional collagen extraction is ethically questionable and details the exciting potential of her techniques for creating sustainable, tasty alternatives. Imagine a future filled with luxurious collagen-rich snacks and slaughter-free options that everyone can enjoy!

8 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 30min
Interview: What actually causes high cholesterol? | Hei Man Chan
Dr. Eric Topol, a renowned cardiologist and founder of the Scripps Research Translational Institute, joins to unravel the complexities of cholesterol. They discuss how dietary cholesterol isn't the sole villain, emphasizing the importance of fats and fiber instead. Topol dives into the revolutionary role of AI and genomics in personalized healthcare, advocating for public investment in preventive science. He also highlights the significance of blood biomarkers and the need for future doctors to train in cutting-edge technologies.

11 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 7min
Do you really need to take 10,000 steps a day? | Shannon Odell
Discover the transformative impact of walking on both physical and mental health. Shannon Odell delves into how even modest step increases can significantly enhance mood and heart wellness. The myth of needing to hit 10,000 steps daily is debunked, encouraging a more personalized approach to fitness. Explore the health benefits tied to walkable neighborhoods and their role in fostering community connections, promoting a healthier lifestyle beyond mere numbers.

Sep 9, 2025 • 42min
Interview: A parent's guide to raising kids after loss | Andy Laats
Andy Laats, an entrepreneur and single father, shares his heartfelt journey navigating parenting after losing his wife to cancer. His insights touch on finding meaning in everyday life and the healing power of connections. Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, an expert on childhood adversity, discusses how early life experiences shape health and resilience. They delve into the lasting effects of trauma on children and the critical importance of supportive relationships and early interventions, emphasizing the role of parents in fostering empathy and understanding.

54 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 23min
I'm an adult! Why do I have acne? | CBC's The Dose
In this enlightening discussion, Kerri Purdy, head of dermatology at Dalhousie University, sheds light on the often misunderstood issue of adult acne. She reveals that genetics and hormones are significant risk factors, rather than diet. The conversation dives into the various types of acne adults face, including cystic and comedonal. Kerri also shares the latest treatment options and emphasizes the need for proper diagnosis, particularly in distinguishing acne from rosacea. Overall, the talk empowers listeners with knowledge and encourages a patient approach to skincare.

Aug 26, 2025 • 31min
Interview: Why daylight is the secret to great sleep | Christine Blume
In this engaging discussion, sleep scientist Christine Blume shares her expertise on how natural daylight impacts our sleep quality. She offers practical tips for integrating sunlight into daily routines to enhance rest. Neurologist Meredith Broderick adds insights on the overlooked importance of sleep hygiene, explaining its crucial role in overall health. The duo emphasizes the synchronization of our internal biological clocks with environmental light, and how embracing natural light can lead to profound improvements in well-being.

10 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 13min
Why your body fights weight loss | Katherine Saunders
Katherine Saunders, a physician specializing in obesity, dives deep into the biology behind our struggle with weight loss. She explains that obesity is not just about willpower but is rooted in our evolutionary biology. The discussion touches on how our bodies are wired to store fat and the hormonal changes that can sabotage dieting efforts. With insights into the latest treatments and the complex nature of obesity, Katherine advocates for empathy and a shift in societal perceptions surrounding this chronic disease.

7 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 35min
The science of taste and smell with Rachel Herz | from ReThinking with Adam Grant
In this conversation, neuroscientist Rachel Herz from Brown University shares her expertise on the intriguing world of taste and smell. She explains the concept of super tasters and how genetics influence our food preferences. The discussion explores the emotional power of scent and its impact on relationships. Herz reveals surprising insights from a survey about smell preferences during the pandemic. They also touch on how visual elements can alter taste perception and the potential for technology to connect scent with digital experiences.