Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda

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.

Former magazine editor turned painter, Adam Moss, discusses the struggle with dissatisfaction in art, navigating setbacks, and the commitment artists employ to overcome doubts. He also explores effective strategies for navigating conversations and finding inspiration from childhood books.

Should we be planning to establish settlements on the moon and Mars? To many, including a couple of billionaires, the idea has become almost an obsession. An unlikely husband and wife duo has spent years digging deeply into plans to colonize space. Their conclusion: not so fast. 

We exist because of the moon. Rebecca Boyle relates the amazing story of how the moon, born of a cataclysmic collision with an infant earth, has shaped our history, our evolution, and even our very existence.

Doris Kearns Goodwin, author of a new book on the 1960s, shares insights on JFK and LBJ's presidency dynamics, impactful speeches, and their evolving legacies. She also discusses the power of curiosity in fostering relationships, the influence of Barbara Tuckman's writing style on her work, and the moon's historical significance.

Alan and Executive Producer Graham Chedd chat about and play excerpts from Alan's conversations with some of the guests in the new season, beginning next week. Guests include newspaper editor Adam Moss; science journalist Rebecca Boyle; and writers Kelly and Zach Weinersmith.

Stephen Dubner, host of Freakonomics Radio, and Alan Alda discuss Richard Feynman's impact on science communication, his unique teaching style, and the importance of effective communication in understanding complex scientific concepts. The podcast delves into Feynman's approach to learning, contrasts it with traditional methods, and explores the future of critical thinking in the age of AI. Personal anecdotes on confidence, happiness, and dealing with misinformation are shared, wrapping up with mutual admiration and acknowledgements.