Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda

In a surprising shift in how we communicate about the climate crisis, Kate Marvel explores the feelings evoked by her research. Her new book tackles what’s happening to our changing planet, each chapter triggering in her a different emotional response – from wonder and anger, though guilt to love: using emotion along with facts to spur action. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Justin Evans, a seasoned data expert and author, passionately brings data to life, revealing its power to tell compelling human stories. He shares how data-driven heroes, like an epidemiologist in NYC, saved lives during COVID. Evans dives into the ethical dilemmas in data practices, referencing his run-ins with tech giants. From loneliness scores aiding seniors to historical examples like John Graunt mapping plague deaths, he illustrates data's critical role in society, emphasizing that it's about meaningful ideas, not just numbers.

Melanie Kaplan, a veteran journalist and travel writer, shares her heartfelt journey after adopting Hammy, a former lab beagle. She unpacks the troubling realities of animal research, revealing that over 95% of promising drugs fail in humans. Kaplan discusses the historical reasons behind beagles being used in labs and the welfare issues in commercial dog breeding. She advocates for innovative non-animal alternatives and emphasizes the importance of societal responsibility in animal research, all while recounting touching moments of Hammy's recovery and transformation.

Not only are non-violent protests more effective than armed resistance, but a surprisingly small percentage of the population – around three and a half percent – has been enough to change governments. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

With long memories and the ability to figure out what other crows are thinking  – then plot to outdo them, using what Nicky Clayton calls “sleight of beak” – crows are at least as smart as chimpanzees, despite having very different brains. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cognitive psychologist and bestselling author Steven Pinker dives into the fascinating realm of common knowledge. He explains how understanding what others know can shape emotions, deception, and societal behaviors, using real-life examples like the toilet paper shortage. Pinker discusses the importance of shared experiences in friendships and highlights polarization due to differing knowledge pools. He also touches on laughter as a unifier and the fine art of tactfully correcting others, offering insights into communication dynamics.

Alan and Executive Producer Graham Chedd look ahead to next season and some unexpected connections between our first guests. They include best-selling author Steven Pinker, and how you know that I know that you know that I know; psychologist Nicky Clayton and why crows are so smart; Erica Chenoweth and the power of peaceful protest; climate scientist Kate Marvel on why she gets emotional in her new book; and journalist Melanie Kaplan, who with her beagle Hammy explore together the murky world of animal experimentation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Leanne Guy, a Data Management System Science Team Lead at the Rubin Observatory with a PhD in experimental particle physics, discusses the groundbreaking capabilities of the Vera Rubin Observatory. She highlights how this innovative telescope will revolutionize our understanding of dark energy, dark matter, and help identify potentially hazardous asteroids. The discussion also honors the legacy of Vera Rubin, inspiring future generations in science, and touches on the importance of dialogue and combating misinformation in the scientific community.

Michael Osterholm, Director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, shares crucial insights on pandemic preparedness drawn from his extensive expertise. He discusses lessons from COVID-19, emphasizing the need for transparent communication and the integrity of vaccine information. Osterholm advocates for a strengthened CDC role in public health amidst rising misinformation. With urgency, he calls for effective strategies to communicate science, ensuring society is better equipped for future outbreaks and resilient against misinformation.

Herman Pontzer, an evolutionary anthropologist at Duke University, dives into the extraordinary adaptability of humans, emphasizing our ability to thrive in diverse environments. He highlights how biological and cultural diversity aids innovation and problem-solving. With personal anecdotes and reflections on race and gender, he advocates for unity while respecting differences. Pontzer also explores the genetic basis of physical traits shaped by adaptation and the role of diverse teams in tackling public health challenges, stressing the importance of communication and collaboration.