Talks at Google
Talks at Google
Where great minds meet. Talks at Google brings the world’s most influential thinkers, creators, makers, and doers all to one place. You can watch every episode at YouTube.com/TalksAtGoogle.
DISCLAIMER: The views or opinions expressed by the guest speakers are solely their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Google, Inc. The comments on this channel belong only to the person who posted them. We do, however, reserve the right to remove off-topic or inappropriate comments.
Also, the materials presented in the episodes are licensed to Google by the speaker(s). Google does not endorse any products or technology presented by the guest speakers.
DISCLAIMER: The views or opinions expressed by the guest speakers are solely their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Google, Inc. The comments on this channel belong only to the person who posted them. We do, however, reserve the right to remove off-topic or inappropriate comments.
Also, the materials presented in the episodes are licensed to Google by the speaker(s). Google does not endorse any products or technology presented by the guest speakers.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 17, 2024 • 60min
Ep482 - Broadway's Wicked
Laurel Harris and Alexandra Socha, stars of Broadway's Wicked, share their insights on the show's legacy and their transformative roles. They humorously explore how Glinda and Elphaba would navigate social media, and passionately advocate for the Alzheimer's Association, intertwining their performances with personal causes. Topics like the challenges of balancing motherhood and Broadway, vocal health, and the impact of technology on live performances are also covered. Their heartfelt Q&A reveals the emotional significance of their characters and the joy of theater.
Sep 13, 2024 • 44min
Ep481 - Mary Pilon | Obsession, Fury, and the Scandal Behind the World's Favorite Board Game
Mary Pilon, an author renowned for uncovering hidden histories, dives into the scandalous backstory of Monopoly. She reveals that it wasn't just Charles Darrow who created the game—feminist activist Lizzie Magie laid the groundwork decades earlier. Pilon discusses the corporate manipulation of Monopoly's origins and the obsessive quest of Ralph Anspach, who fought for the truth behind its legacy. This captivating tale intertwines themes of greed, history, and the social impact of board games, turning Monopoly into a fascinating narrative of American business.
Sep 10, 2024 • 33min
Ep480 - Ferris Jabr | Becoming Earth
Ferris Jabr, an acclaimed science writer, dives into the interconnectedness of life on our planet in this engaging discussion. He challenges the traditional views by presenting Earth as a living system where humans not only inhabit but profoundly shape its evolution. Jabr explores the critical roles ecosystems play, like the Amazon rainforest's impact on global weather, and calls for a reevaluation of our actions in the climate crisis. He also shares inspiring stories of individuals transforming neglected spaces into thriving ecosystems.
Sep 6, 2024 • 60min
Ep479 - Adrienne Mayor | The Amazons
Adrienne Mayor, a Stanford professor and author, dives into her groundbreaking work on warrior women across ancient cultures. She brings to light revealing archaeological discoveries that showcase Amazons as real female warriors, challenging traditional myths. The discussion spans their roles in various civilizations, from Greece to Central Asia, and explores their agility in battle and societal leadership. Mayor also examines the complex perceptions of these women, highlighting how they have influenced modern narratives in media and culture.
Sep 3, 2024 • 42min
Ep478 - Nadina Galle | The Nature of our Cities
Nadina Galle, an ecological engineer and author, shares her insights on urban sustainability and the innovative concept of the 'Internet of Nature.' She explores the role of green infrastructure in combating urban heat, particularly in New York City. The conversation highlights the rise of nature prescriptions for mental health and the importance of reconnecting with nature in cities. Galle also discusses how technology enhances urban forestry and community engagement through nature apps and data-driven solutions.
Aug 30, 2024 • 1h 12min
Ep477 - Alexander Meyer | Ancient Greece & Rome: Time & Culture
Professor Alexander Meyer, an expert on ancient history, delves into the intricate world of timekeeping in ancient Greece and Rome. He reveals how calendars were not merely tools for tracking time but reflections of cultural identity, politics, and societal values. Discussions include Julius Caesar's reforms to align the lunar calendar and Augustus's enhancements for leap years. Meyer also highlights the delicate balance of power and cultural exchange that shaped these ancient systems, shedding light on their lasting impacts on modern society.
Aug 27, 2024 • 32min
Ep476 - Kara Loewentheil | Take Back Your Brain
Kara Loewentheil, a Master Certified life coach and founder of The School of New Feminist Thought, dives into her transformative book, exploring how sexism shapes women's thoughts. She shares practical thought-work exercises designed to reclaim mental autonomy. The conversation highlights the need to redefine success, emphasizing personal fulfillment over societal validation. Kara discusses techniques to build a positive self-relationship and encourages a mindset shift that links personal empowerment with broader societal change.
Aug 23, 2024 • 57min
Ep475 - Robert Frank | The Economic Naturalist
Robert Frank, an author and economist known for exploring everyday enigmas through economic principles, dives into intriguing questions in this discussion. He highlights why drive-up ATMs have Braille dots, connecting it to cost efficiency. Frank critiques traditional economics education, emphasizing genuine understanding over rote learning. He also discusses how individual consumer choices shape market dynamics, illustrating concepts like opportunity cost and emotional factors in decision-making, plus how evolutionary principles apply to human behavior.
Aug 20, 2024 • 30min
Ep474 - Stephanie Harrison | The New Happy
Stephanie Harrison, creator of the New Happy philosophy and author of a transformative happiness guide, discusses redefining happiness through community over individualism. She contrasts joy and happiness, emphasizing the power of connection for personal growth and collective well-being. Stephanie also explores how small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of positivity and the importance of embracing personal gifts to enhance societal happiness. Her insights encourage listeners to rethink their paths to joy and fulfillment.
Aug 16, 2024 • 52min
Ep473 - Wendy Kopp | Teach for America
Wendy Kopp, founder and CEO of Teach For America, shares her inspiring journey from college activist to nonprofit leader. She reveals how her Princeton dorm room idea blossomed into a movement tackling educational inequity. Kopp discusses the remarkable success of sending talented college graduates to under-resourced schools, transforming education for low-income students. The conversation highlights the organization's early challenges, financial hurdles, and the critical need for leadership and systemic change to bridge the educational divide.
