Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda

Stephen Hall, an author and science writer, challenges our fears of snakes with fascinating insights. He reveals surprising facts about snake sex, their vital contributions to medicine, and their unique evolutionary adaptations. Hall encourages listeners to appreciate the complex relationships snakes share with humans and their crucial role in ecosystems. He also shares humorous anecdotes about pet snakes, emphasizing the need for better understanding and communication between species. Prepare to view these misunderstood creatures in a new light!

Kyra Davis Lurie, an accomplished author known for her Just One Night trilogy, shares her complex admiration for F. Scott Fitzgerald and her fresh take on The Great Gatsby. She dives into the historical context of Black wealth in 1940s Los Angeles, exploring societal perceptions and the challenges for Black elites. Lurie highlights the vibrant Sugar Hill community, the repercussions of racial covenants, and how themes of trust and identity play out in her reimagined narrative. It's a rich discussion blending literature, race, and history.

Robert Sapolsky, a Stanford University professor and best-selling author, joins to explore human behavior's quirks. He shares insights on free will, highlighting our responses in a polarized world. Through his father-daughter podcasting venture, he humorously connects with family dynamics. The conversation dives into communication nuances and the 'us versus them' mentality, revealing how shared experiences can foster understanding. Sapolsky also reflects on the power of genuine conversation, illustrating how connections can bridge societal divides.

Bob Odenkirk, an actor, comedian, and writer, renowned for his portrayal of Saul Goodman, explores his remarkable career transitions. He shares insights about moving from comedy to action roles, emphasizing the need for vulnerability in performances. Odenkirk opens up about his life-changing heart attack during filming, reflecting on mortality and communication. He also discusses the challenges of communicating meaningful experiences and the resilience needed to navigate personal and professional hurdles, blending humor and introspection along the way.

Tara Roberts is a National Geographic Explorer in Residence and a storyteller known for her impactful work on documenting slave shipwrecks. In this conversation, she shares the emotional journeys of diving into history and uncovering the stories of lives lost in sunken slave ships. Tara emphasizes the power of storytelling to connect with history and the importance of honoring ancestral heritage. She reveals the challenges faced in underwater exploration and highlights how meaningful dialogue can foster understanding and combat misinformation.

Award-winning essayist and author Roger Rosenblatt shares his unconventional wisdom on aging with humor and insight. He discusses the joy of intergenerational friendships and the importance of authentic connections. Roger emphasizes that navigating life’s challenges may require ignoring common sense and focusing on personal goals. Throughout their playful conversation, he reflects on the richness of experiences and the significance of embracing joy while facing the realities of aging.

Tina Fey, renowned actress, comedian, and creator behind hits like 30 Rock, shares her journey in reimagining the classic film 'The Four Seasons' for Netflix. She discusses the importance of modernizing storylines while maintaining emotional depth and relatable characters. Fey dives into the thrill of improv comedy and reflects on the challenges of blending humor with meaningful narratives. The conversation also touches on marriage dynamics, the significance of friendships, and how they influence storytelling, all wrapped in her signature wit.

Dive into the intriguing world of artificial intelligence as it runs the show. Discover the fine line between innovation and risk as AI influences healthcare and emotional connections. Unpack the moral dilemmas and environmental costs tied to these technologies. Explore the urgent need for regulations, drawing parallels to the complexities of biological warfare. With AI's potential to surpass human intelligence, the discussion emphasizes prudent management and the importance of public engagement in shaping responsible technology.

In a vibrant discussion, actor Bob Odenkirk reflects on the emotional layers of his roles in 'Breaking Bad' and 'Glengarry Glen Ross,' exploring themes of resilience and gratitude. Explorer Tara Roberts dives into her groundbreaking work with Diving with a Purpose, revealing the powerful stories behind documenting slave shipwrecks. The conversation also touches on the complexities of AI and its effects on communication, alongside uplifting moments driven by music and storytelling, promising an insightful season ahead.

Carly Anne York, an animal behaviorist and associate professor at Lenwar Rhyne University, dives into the fascinating realm of 'silly science'. She shares how seemingly trivial studies have led to significant breakthroughs, like understanding animal behavior and innovative medical advancements. The podcast touches on the challenges of communicating science to a skeptical public while highlighting the humor found in research, including the whimsical Ig Nobel Awards. Ultimately, it showcases the surprising importance of curiosity in driving scientific discovery.