The Future of Everything

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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.

Michael Wara, a Stanford professor and wildfire policy expert, tackles the pressing issue of wildfire management. He discusses the urgent need for community-driven approaches to combat escalating wildfire risks fueled by climate change. Wara emphasizes the importance of updating communication strategies to engage residents effectively. He also explores innovative solutions, like undergrounding power lines, and the potential of leveraging celebrity influence to raise awareness and reshape narratives around wildfire resilience.

Physician and psychologist Heidi Feldman is a pioneer in the field of developmental behavioral pediatrics who says that the world’s understanding of childhood disability is changing and so too are the ways we approach it. Where once institutionalization was common, today we find integrative, family-centered approaches, charting a more humane, hopeful path forward. For example, for children born prematurely with increased likelihood of disability, increasing skin-to-skin contact – what is called  “kangaroo care” – can literally reshape that child’s brain development, she tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.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: Heidi M. FeldmanConnect 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) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces guest  Heidi Feldman, professor of pediatrics at Stanford University.(00:03:26) Path to Developmental PediatricsHeidi’s journey from education to developmental-behavioral pediatrics.(00:05:10) The Emergence of Developmental PediatricsHow developmental disabilities entered the medical mainstream.(00:07:30) Common Disorders in ChildrenThe most prevalent disabilities seen in practice and diagnostic trends.(00:09:46) Preterm Birth and Disability RiskWhy premature birth is a major risk factor for developmental challenges.(00:13:53) Brain Connections and OutcomesHow white matter and brain circuitry impact development.(00:17:09) Kangaroo Care’s PotentialHow skin-to-skin contact positively influences brain development.(00:21:30) Inclusive Family and Community SupportWhy integrated care and inclusive classrooms benefit all children.(00:23:37) Social and Economic UpsidesCost savings and increased independence from inclusive care.(00:24:33) Transitioning to Adult CareGaps and opportunities in supporting disabled youth into adulthood.(00:27:12) Using AI to Improve Care QualityAI models help track whether care guidelines are being followed.(00:31:00) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this lively discussion, Dr. Emily Kraus, a Stanford orthopedic professor and expert on female athletic health, dives into the vital differences between male and female athletes. She highlights unique health challenges women face, including the impact of menstrual cycles on performance and the critical role of nutrition. Dr. Kraus also stresses the importance of targeted research to empower female athletes and address their specific needs in training and recovery, advocating for greater awareness and support in sports science.

Nora Freeman Engstrom, a law professor at Stanford specializing in legal ethics and access to justice, delves into the critical issue of inadequate legal representation. Three-quarters of litigants are unrepresented in significant civil cases, and many face daunting challenges, such as eviction. Engstrom discusses potential solutions like non-lawyer representation and AI in legal services, urging systemic reforms to bridge the gap in legal accessibility. She also highlights the historical evolution of legal aid and the need for innovative approaches to support the unrepresented.

Tina Stankovic, an ear, nose, and throat specialist at Stanford, blends her passion for music with groundbreaking research in hearing loss. She discusses the challenges posed by genetic mutations and the role of AI in improving diagnostic accuracy. Recent advancements in regenerative medicine and cochlear implant technology offer hope for treatment. Stankovic also highlights the emotional impacts of hearing loss and shares practical tips for prevention, emphasizing the importance of advocacy in the journey toward better hearing health.