TED Tech
TED Tech
From the construction of virtual realities to the internet of things to the watches on our wrists—technology's influence is everywhere. Its role in our lives is evolving fast, and we're faced with riveting questions and tough challenges that sit at the intersection of technology and humanity. Listen in every Friday, with host, journalist Sherrell Dorsey, as TED speakers explore the way tech shapes how we think about society, science, design, business, and more.Follow Sherrell on Instagram @sherrell_dorsey and on LinkedIn @sherrelldorsey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
4 snips
Dec 1, 2023 • 17min
A brain implant that turns your thoughts into text | Tom Oxley
Neurotech entrepreneur Tom Oxley discusses the Stentrode, an implantable brain-computer interface that allows individuals with paralysis to communicate by converting their thoughts into text. The podcast explores the potential benefits of this technology for individuals with disabilities and highlights its non-invasive approach. It also delves into the promise of brain-computer interface technology in restoring autonomy and dignity to people with paralysis and the potential of the Stentrode in improving communication abilities for individuals with neurological conditions.
Nov 24, 2023 • 16min
The tech we need to fight workplace ageism | Piyachart Phiromswad
Economist Piyachart Phiromswad discusses tools to empower elderly workers in the face of workplace ageism, including exoskeletons, remote work, and robotic arms. The talk also explores the ethical considerations of keeping aging populations in the workforce for productivity.
Nov 17, 2023 • 35min
Uber, and how to fix things when trust is broken | Fixable
Anne and Frances, experts in trust, discuss how to fix trust breakdowns using Uber as a case study. They explain the three pillars of trust - authenticity, empathy, and logic - and provide actionable solutions to strengthen trust in organizations.
9 snips
Nov 10, 2023 • 15min
Can AI help solve the climate crisis? | Sims Witherspoon
Sims Witherspoon, Leader at Google DeepMind, discusses how AI can help solve the climate crisis by predicting ecosystems, creating clean energy, and optimizing wind power. The importance of data and partnerships in deploying AI systems is also highlighted.
13 snips
Nov 3, 2023 • 18min
How "digital twins" could help us predict the future | Karen Willcox
Aerospace engineer Karen Willcox explores the incredible possibilities of 'digital twins' across engineering, climate studies, and medicine. She discusses the use of digital twins to understand and improve complex systems, personalized predictions, engineering systems, applications in various fields, and the challenges in creating digital twins.
Oct 27, 2023 • 10min
The future of machines that move like animals | Robert Katzschmann
"Robert Katzschmann, Builder of soft-bodied robots that imitate natural movements with artificial, silent muscles", discusses the future of biomimetic machines that move like animals and the potential use of living muscle cells in creating them. The podcast explores the design process and emphasizes the importance of integrating these robots safely with humans and respecting nature. It also highlights the benefits of bio-inspired robots in search and rescue operations and agriculture.
6 snips
Oct 20, 2023 • 12min
War, AI and the new global arms race | Alexandr Wang
Alexandr Wang, a technologist exploring the use of AI in warfare, discusses the potential consequences of AI-powered warfare including lethal drones, armed robots, and autonomous fighter jets. He emphasizes the importance of data and national security in developing new tech to prevent all-out AI warfare.
Oct 13, 2023 • 16min
Could an orca give a TED Talk? | Karen Bakker
Karen Bakker, a conservation technology researcher, explores the use of artificial intelligence to decode animal communications. She discusses the hidden sounds of nature, including bats, orcas, peacocks, and coral larvae. The podcast touches on the potential for robots to communicate with honeybees and the ethical implications of bioacoustics in addressing the biodiversity crisis.
Oct 6, 2023 • 14min
The growing megafire crisis — and how to contain it | George T. Whitesides
George T. Whitesides, focused on fighting devastating natural disasters through innovative technologies and intentional changes to how we build communities, presents three emerging solutions to the growing megafire crisis. He calls for redefining our relationship with fire to build a more resilient and sustainable future. The podcast explores the devastating impact of wildfires, the urgent need for solutions, and innovative technology in containing wildfires such as Burnbot and sensor systems.
9 snips
Oct 3, 2023 • 28min
So much sitting, looking at screens. Can we combat our sedentary lives? | Body Electric
Exploring the impact of technology on our bodies, the podcast discusses the historical relationship between economic eras and the human body. It highlights the negative effects of excessive screen time and sedentary behavior, suggesting movement breaks as a solution. The podcast also emphasizes the need for a culture change to combat sedentary lifestyles and encourages listener participation in an experiment.
