Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda

Astrophysicist Sanjana Curtis explains the creation of elements like gold in space cataclysms on TikTok. She discusses the daily life of a theoretical astrophysicist and the importance of multi-messenger astrophysics. The podcast explores the evolution of astronomy with combined observational approaches and the process of creating heavy elements through rapid neutron capture.

When we experience things that seem beyond explanation, are they evidence of the supernatural? Or instead, a quirk of our brains? A skeptical but open-minded psychologist has some entertaining answers. 

Sharing her experiences of three space missions – including 159 days as the only woman on the 6-person crew of the International Space Station – Cady Coleman also shares lessons about getting along:valuable insights for the rest of us down here on earth.

Charles Duhigg, author of 'Supercommunicators', and Alan discuss the art of asking deep questions, the power of listening, navigating conversations, enhancing empathy, and communication techniques. They emphasize the importance of active listening and emotional contagion in connecting with others.

The world of the very small is very different from the one we are familiar with. (Gold for instance turns red.) Chad Mirkin and Robert Langer’s skills in crafting this bizarre micro-world into medical breakthroughs earned them the 2024 Kavli Prize in nanotechnology.

He is searching space for planets that are something like ours. She is searching brains to discover how we recognize things. They are both 2024 Kavli laureates – Charbonneau awarded the prize for astrophysics, Tsao for neuroscience.

Astronomers David Jewitt and Jane Luu talk about discovering Pluto's Kuiper Belt connection, sharing their risky journeys to the US and passion for planetary science. They discuss the challenges of finding objects beyond Pluto, winning the Kavli Prize, and Pluto's reclassification.

Renowned neuroscientists Carla Shatz and Marcus Raichle discuss neuroplasticity, brain circuits, and Alzheimer's disease. Topics include brain resilience in aging, memory formation, brain activity patterns, and potential treatments for neurodegenerative disorders.

Two dads, Fred Guttenberg and Joe Walsh, put aside their differences to advocate for gun safety and democracy. They share their journey towards unity and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of dialogue, empathy, and finding common ground in bridging political divides. Their tour of college campuses aims to inspire others to work towards a shared goal of reducing gun violence and promoting unity.

Geneticist Craig Venter shares his 15-year voyage uncovering millions of genes in ocean microbes with potential for new energy sources. Topics include breakthroughs in oceanic microbiology, challenges in exploring unseen life forms, hopes for medical advancements and climate change solutions, and the power of shotgun sequencing in analyzing microbial DNA.