The Future of Everything
Stanford Engineering
Host Russ Altman, a professor of bioengineering, genetics, and medicine at Stanford, is your guide to the latest science and engineering breakthroughs. Join Russ and his guests as they explore cutting-edge advances that are shaping the future of everything from AI to health and renewable energy.
Along the way, “The Future of Everything” delves into ethical implications to give listeners a well-rounded understanding of how new technologies and discoveries will impact society. Whether you’re a researcher, a student, or simply curious about what’s on the horizon, tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments that are transforming our world.
Along the way, “The Future of Everything” delves into ethical implications to give listeners a well-rounded understanding of how new technologies and discoveries will impact society. Whether you’re a researcher, a student, or simply curious about what’s on the horizon, tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments that are transforming our world.
Episodes
Mentioned books
12 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 34min
The future of parent-child bonding
Lauren O'Connell, a biologist and professor at Stanford, dives into the fascinating world of poisonous frogs, revealing how these creatures exhibit complex parenting behaviors. She explains how tadpoles recognize their mothers through smell and perform a 'begging dance' when hungry. O'Connell also discusses the protein frogs produce, which protects them from their own toxins and has implications for treating human overdoses. This intriguing conversation bridges the gap between animal bonding and potential medical innovations.
Jul 18, 2025 • 29min
Best of: How the grid is becoming more human-centric
Ram Rajagopal, a Stanford professor and fellow at the Precourt Institute, delves into the transformative shift from a centralized to a human-centric power grid. He discusses the innovative PowerNet concept, emphasizing how it will enable individuals to act as both consumers and producers of energy. The conversation highlights the importance of smart technologies in enhancing efficiency, privacy concerns, and engaging younger generations in sustainable practices. Ram also shares insights on using sensors for real-time monitoring and the impact of smart tech in dairy farming, showcasing energy efficiency advancements.
9 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 36min
The future of AI and the law
Daniel Ho, a law professor at Stanford specializing in AI and legal documentation, discusses the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in the legal field. He highlights the risks associated with AI hallucinations in legal queries, stating over 80% can be inaccurate. Ho shares a groundbreaking project in California where AI was used to swiftly identify and remove racist property covenants from laws. He emphasizes AI's role in reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies, paving the way for legal reform and increased access to justice.
4 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 30min
The future of hoarding disorder
Carolyn Rodriguez, a psychiatrist at Stanford University, specializes in hoarding disorder. She discusses how hoarding can affect daily life and health, emphasizing the importance of empathy in treatment. Rodriguez explores the innovative use of virtual reality to enhance cognitive behavioral therapy, allowing patients to practice decluttering in a safe space. She also delves into the emotional attachments people have to their possessions and shares insights into effective treatment strategies.
Jun 27, 2025 • 29min
Best of: The future of skin longevity
Zakia Rahman, a Stanford University professor of dermatology, dives into the vital aspects of skin health beyond just appearance. She discusses the influence of digital media on self-image, particularly among youth, and the psychological impact of cosmetic trends. The conversation also highlights groundbreaking laser treatments for skin conditions, emphasizing their role in skin cancer prevention. Zakia advocates for sun safety education and explores the protective benefits of clothing, showcasing the importance of understanding diverse skin types.
13 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 32min
The future of food security
Lisa Goldman Rosas, a Stanford professor specializing in epidemiology, dives into the critical issue of food insecurity and its broader impacts on health. She emphasizes the difference between mere food access and true 'nutrition security.' Rosas champions innovative solutions like 'produce prescriptions' that help combat chronic diseases through improved diets. The conversation highlights how economic factors influence food choices, advocating for policy changes to enhance community well-being and promote healthier eating habits.
20 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 33min
The future of motivation
Szu-chi Huang, a marketing professor at Stanford, is an expert in motivational science. In this insightful discussion, she explores the science of motivation and the importance of adaptability in achieving goals. Huang shares innovative strategies to motivate children towards healthier eating through gamified approaches. She also highlights how AI can enhance personal motivation and coaching. Lastly, she dives into the psychology behind consumer loyalty, emphasizing how early achievements and social support keep engagement alive.
Jun 6, 2025 • 29min
Best of: Training the next generation of entrepreneurs
Tina Seelig, a Stanford professor and expert in entrepreneurship and innovation, shares insights on teaching creativity and risk-taking. She discusses whether entrepreneurship is a learned skill or an innate trait, emphasizing the importance of diverse team dynamics. Seelig explains her 'frame storming' method, which fosters critical thinking and ethical considerations in innovation. She also explores how intentional actions can help individuals engineer their own luck, making a compelling case for creativity in effective leadership.
29 snips
May 30, 2025 • 39min
The future of learning to read
Jason Yeatman, a professor at Stanford and expert in the neurobiology of literacy, discusses the vital role of early diagnosis for reading challenges like dyslexia. He introduces ROAR, a gamified tool that empowers educators to assess students' reading abilities effectively. The conversation delves into the evolution of reading and our brain's adaptation through neuroplasticity, highlighting the spectrum of reading abilities. Yeatman emphasizes the importance of a tailored approach to ensure equitable opportunities for all learners, addressing challenges across different languages.
14 snips
May 23, 2025 • 38min
The future of sleep
In this engaging conversation, Neurobiologist Jamie Zeitzer, a Stanford professor specializing in sleep and circadian rhythms, unpacks the irony of sleep anxiety. He explains how our worries about sleeping lead to even less sleep. Zeitzer advocates for consistent bedtime routines and relaxation techniques over medications and wearables. He also sheds light on the impact of blue light from screens on sleep quality and emphasizes the importance of cognitive behavioral therapy for managing insomnia.
