Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda

A clarion call to those of us acutely aware of the peril facing our planet yet feel powerless to help save it. Ayana Johnson urges us to stop fretting about what “I” can do and instead think about what “we” can do, by joining our own skills and passions with those of others – and have fun doing it. Then, she asks in her provocative new book, What If We Get It Right?

Frank Barry, a passionate traveler and storyteller, and his wife Laurel, embarked on a cross-country RV trip along the historic Lincoln Highway during the COVID lockdown. They reflect on the human connections formed amidst division, sharing how conversations with diverse individuals offered insights into unity and empathy. Their journey reveals the Lincoln Highway as a symbol of optimism, showcasing the resilience encountered along the way. They emphasize the importance of civil discourse to heal a fractured nation, all while navigating the challenges of modern travel.

Randy Fertel, an insightful author, delves into the essential role of improvisation in Western culture, spanning music, art, and politics. He shares how improvisational techniques, like the 'yes, and' principle, enhance creativity and collaboration. The discussion illuminates the balance between spontaneity and preparation, emphasizing how intuition complements structured analysis in both the arts and sciences. Fertel also explores improvisation's power in communication, connecting with audiences, and fostering genuine interactions that can spark personal growth.

Roger Rosenblatt, an insightful author, delves into the profound connection between life's wounds and illumination. He discusses his latest work, 'A Steinway on the Beach,' emphasizing how both emotional and physical scars can inspire resilience and personal growth. The conversation touches on the healing power of music, personal anecdotes of loss, and the importance of connection in overcoming societal wounds. With a blend of humor and reflection, they explore love, creativity, and the transformative journey through adversity.

Lisa Kaltenegger, a pioneering astrobiologist, delves into the thrilling quest to find life beyond Earth. She discusses how scientists identify potentially habitable exoplanets and the significance of biosignatures like oxygen and methane. Kaltenegger emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in scientific advancement and shares emotional stories from her research. The conversation also whimsically explores the idea of communicating with extraterrestrial beings, all while reflecting on personal connections that drive scientific curiosity.

Mark Rank, a scholar specializing in chance and its impact on life, shares fascinating insights about the unpredictable nature of luck and its profound effects on history. He discusses pivotal moments, like the failed assassination of Hitler, that altered course due to mere chance. The conversation explores how luck shapes personal achievements in careers, particularly in entertainment, and emphasizes the balance between randomness and the ability to respond meaningfully to life's surprises. Rank also highlights the importance of gratitude amidst life's uncertainties.

Anne Curzan, an expert in the history and evolution of language, dives into the dynamic nature of words and their meanings. She discusses how terms like 'funner' are becoming more accepted, contrasting 'wordies' who embrace change with 'gromandos' who resist it. Curzan emphasizes the importance of understanding linguistic evolution and the role of historical dictionaries. She also explores effective communication strategies, promoting empathy and the appreciation of diverse dialects in our ever-changing language landscape.

Mo Rocca, a storyteller known for spotlighting the achievements of older individuals, shares inspiring tales in his latest book, 'Rock the Generarians'. He argues that older people have some of the best stories, recounting remarkable lives like that of Colonel Sanders, who launched Kentucky Fried Chicken at 66. Rocca emphasizes themes of resilience and reinvention, highlighting how creativity flourishes at any age. He also discusses the power of personal narratives and the importance of connecting through storytelling, laughing and reflecting along the way.

In this insightful preview, writer Roger Rosenblatt, writer Anne Curzan, and journalist Mo Rocca join Alan Alda to discuss the evolution of communication. They reflect on how language transforms over time and share inspiring stories of late-life achievements. The intriguing balance of chance and change is explored, highlighting moments that shape our paths. Personal anecdotes and the power of journalism in community change add depth, setting the stage for a thought-provoking new season filled with engaging conversations.

David Toomey, expert on play behavior, discusses how play shapes survival skills, empathy, and morality in various creatures like octopuses, crows, and bees. Play is more than fun; it's crucial for evolution and life skills. The episode also explores interspecies play interactions and the impact of play on behavior and morality in animals.