The Future of Everything

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Deborah Kado, a geriatrician and professor at Stanford University, shares unique insights into the misunderstood field of geriatrics. She emphasizes that aging doesn't equate to automatic decline, advocating for better care and health practices at any age. Kado discusses fascinating connections between gut health, vitamin D metabolism, and sleep, challenging common perceptions about health issues in the elderly. With a focus on holistic care, she highlights the importance of understanding the microbiome's role in overall well-being.

It's teacher appreciation week and along with schools across the country, we here at The Future of Everything want to send out a heartfelt thank you to the teachers who make a difference every day in the lives of our children and in society as a whole. In light of this, we’re re-running an education related episode, and more specifically one on the future of educational technology with the Dean of the Stanford School of Education, Dan Schwartz. Dan is exploring effective ways to use AI in the classroom to support teachers–not to replace them–and to enhance student learning. We hope you’ll take a moment to tune in again and enjoy.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Daniel SchwartzConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Dan Schwartz, Dean of the School of Education at Stanford University.(00:01:44) The Role of AI in Modern EducationThe widespread reactions and implications of AI in education.(00:02:59) Technology in the ClassroomThe historical and evolving relationship between technology and education.(00:04:51) Engaging Students with AIHow AI can enhance engagement through innovative teaching.(00:07:45) Impact of AI on Student LearningThe balance between AI tools and maintaining educational standards.(00:13:21) Challenges with EdTech CollaborationConcerns about industry prioritizing speed over creativity in learning tools.(00:15:23) Teachers Adapting to AIThe role of teachers in effectively integrating AI into the classroom.(00:18:21) Assessment and Grading with AIThe potential and concerns of using AI for educational assessment(00:22:16) AI and Conceptual UnderstandingHow AI can shift focus from task completion to true understanding.(00:24:49) Physical Activity and LearningThe connection between physical activity and improved learning outcomes.(00:28:59) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook

Lisa Patel, a pediatrician and environmental health expert, dives deep into the alarming impact of pollution on children's health, linking issues like asthma and pneumonia to wildfires, fossil fuels, and plastics. She offers hopeful solutions, from DIY air filters to cleaner energy choices. Patel emphasizes community action to combat these challenges and advocates for reducing meat consumption and using electric vehicles for better air quality. Join the conversation about protecting the next generation's health through informed choices and local activism.