KERA's Think

Matthew Scherr is a contributing writer for the New York Times Magazine, sharing insights on the loneliness epidemic and creative solutions. Jeremy Nobel, a physician and founder of the Foundation for Art and Healing, discusses using art as a therapeutic outlet. Marissa G. Franco, a professor and author, offers strategies for building and maintaining friendships. They explore loneliness's health risks, innovative community initiatives, the importance of platonic bonds, and how creativity can foster deeper connections.

Mike Isaac, a Silicon Valley and technology reporter for The New York Times, dives into the dramatic changes in Silicon Valley amidst the rise of A.I. He discusses how the pandemic transformed work culture and hiring practices, steering the focus from software to hard tech. Isaac sheds light on the growing intersection of technology and defense sectors, as well as the evolving political landscape. He also reflects on the unpredictable innovations in A.I. and their unexpected popularity, reshaping the future of work and tech employment.

In this discussion, Andrea Javor, a freelance writer and type 1 diabetes advocate, shares her candid experience with Ozempic and the letdown of not achieving weight loss. She dives into the emotional toll of societal pressures surrounding body image and dieting. Javor emphasizes the importance of understanding individual responses to weight loss medications and the complexities of managing diabetes. Her journey highlights the need for empathy in conversations about health and self-acceptance, challenging the narrative that weight loss equals success.

Megan C. Reynolds, editor at Dwell Magazine and author of "Like: A History of the World’s Most Hated (and Misunderstood) Word," dives into the significance of the word 'like' in modern communication. She argues that it’s a powerful expression of emotions and connection, despite critics calling it a filler. Reynolds discusses its evolving role in language, cultural perceptions, and the contrast between formal and informal speech, particularly among young urban women. She even explores how AI struggles to grasp these nuances in human interactions.

In this conversation, journalist Rachel Slade, author of "Making It in America," tackles the daunting challenges of domestic manufacturing. She discusses how small businesses struggle to source American-made products amidst cheaper foreign options. The impact of historical trade policies and labor unions on today's economic landscape is revealed, along with the ethical dilemmas of cheap fashion. Slade also emphasizes the importance of consumer awareness and fair compensation in creating a sustainable and equitable manufacturing future.

Arthur C. Brooks, a Harvard professor and columnist for The Atlantic, shares valuable insights on achieving happiness. He discusses the power of embracing failure as a pathway to personal growth and the balance needed between virtual communication and in-person connections, especially in remote work. Listeners learn how procrastination can spark creativity and the dual nature of rumination, offering techniques like journaling to manage anxiety. Brooks also explores the intersection of money and happiness and the importance of honest communication during midlife transitions.

Ross Anderson, a staff writer at The Atlantic, dives into a pressing issue: the brain drain of top U.S. scientists. He explains how funding cuts and strict immigration policies have made foreign opportunities more appealing. Anderson draws parallels between current events and historical scientific setbacks, such as those faced during the Soviet era. He emphasizes the importance of federal funding for scientific advancement, arguing that without it, the nation's leadership in innovation is at risk.

Elaina Plott Calabro, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of "Canada Is Killing Itself," dives into the complexities of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) in Canada. She reveals startling statistics showing one in 20 deaths is now due to euthanasia, surpassing deaths from Alzheimer's and diabetes. The discussion highlights the unexpected acceptance of MAID, the emotional experiences of medical professionals, and the controversial expansion of euthanasia laws to include individuals with mental health issues, raising profound ethical questions.

Tekendra Parmar, a contributing writer and editor at Inc., delves into the tumultuous world of immigration law, revealing the pressures immigration attorneys face due to evolving policies. He discusses the emotional toll on both lawyers and clients in an increasingly hostile environment. Parmar highlights the rise of pro bono efforts and the role of technology in easing legal processes, while also addressing the staggering costs of representation. Through personal stories, he underscores the urgent need for effective legal guidance amid a confusing immigration landscape.

Rutger Bregman, a historian and co-founder of The School for Moral Ambition, dives into the concept of 'moral ambition'—the pursuit of meaningful change through our careers. He challenges the prevalent feeling that jobs lack purpose and encourages listeners to focus their talents on pressing global issues. Bregman discusses historical examples of activists like Thomas Clarkson and the crucial impact of community in resisting oppression. He emphasizes that real change comes from strong coalitions and prioritizing impactful efforts over mere busywork.