Episódios

  • Best of: The future of skin longevity

    Best of: The future of skin longevity
    Jun 27 2025

    Summer is in full swing and we hope you are enjoying it with family and friends. As we spend more time outdoors, it’s an opportune moment to revisit a conversation we had with Zakia Rahman, a dermatologist who shared a number of helpful measures we can take to care for our skin. She reminds us that skincare is about more than vanity — it’s about vitality. We hope you’ll tune in again and enjoy.

    Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.

    Episode Reference Links:

    • Stanford Profile: Zakia Rahman
    • Stanford Center on Longevity

    Connect With Us:

    • Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website
    • Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon
    • Connect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook

    Chapters:

    (00:00:00) Introduction

    Host Russ Altman introduces guest Zakia Rahman, a professor of dermatology at Stanford University.

    (00:01:57) The Impact of Digital Technologies

    How digital media shapes dermatology and self-perception

    (00:03:13) Effects of Self-Image on Dermatology

    Balancing vanity and vitality in modern skincare trends.

    (00:04:38) The Role of Lasers in Dermatology

    The uses and types of laser technology in dermatology.

    (00:08:17) Lasers in Skin Cancer Treatment

    How laser technology aids in the treatment and prevention of skin cancer.

    (00:09:44) Progress in Skin Cancer

    Skin cancer prevention and the effectiveness of sun protection measures.

    (00:13:02) Effectiveness of Physical Sun Protection

    Guidance on protecting from UV damage using physical sun protection.

    (00:18:27) Ethnic Differences in Skin Health

    Differences in skin health and sun exposure across ethnic groups.

    (00:20:30) Tanning: Protective or Problematic?

    The science behind tanning and the skin’s role as an endocrine organ.

    (00:23:16) Aesthetics and Culture in Skin Care

    How cultural perceptions of beauty intersect with skincare and health.

    (00:25:38) Therapeutic Effects of Light

    Potential benefits of red light exposure from masks and sunsets.

    (00:28:28) Conclusion

    Connect With Us:

    Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website

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    29 minutos
  • The future of food security

    The future of food security
    Jun 20 2025
    Guest Lisa Goldman Rosas is an authority on public health who says that food insecurity goes deeper than hunger and can lead to chronic diabetes, heart disease, and even anxiety and depression. Rosas champions a concept she calls “nutrition security,” which focuses on food’s health value over mere calories. She discusses her work with “Recipe4Health,” an Alameda County-led program that issues produce prescriptions, offers health coaching, and integrates electronic health records to improve diets and well-being. Food is medicine, Rosas tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Lisa Goldman RosasRecipe4HealthConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces Lisa Goldman Rosas, a professor of epidemiology and population health, medicine and pediatrics at Stanford University.(00:03:56) Journey Into Food & HealthLisa’s path from environmental science to food security and medicine.(00:05:54) Food Insecurity vs. Nutrition SecurityDistinguishing between food insecurity and nutrition security.(00:07:12) Food Choices Under PressureFactors that contribute to food insecurity in families.(00:09:03) Health Impacts of Food InsecurityLinks between food insecurity, chronic illness and mental health issues.(00:12:04) Government & Policy SupportHow programs like SNAP and WIC support food access.(00:14:15) Food as MedicineA growing movement connecting healthcare with nutrition support.(00:17:34) Trial Periods & Lasting ImpactWhy short-term programs can help families discover healthier habits.(00:21:27) What is Recipe4Health?An outline of a clinic-based produce and behavior prescription program.(00:24:07) When Disease Causes Food InsecurityHow expensive chronic disease can push people into food insecurity.(00:24:23) Medicaid Waivers for Food PrescriptionsThe state level policy shifts that allow food as a reimbursable health expense.(00:26:27) Private Sector’s Role in Food InsecurityHow companies are getting involved in promoting healthy foods.(00:27:34) Simple Tips for Eating BetterStrategies to make small but impactful changes for eating healthier.(00:30:39) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook
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    32 minutos
  • The future of motivation

    The future of motivation
    Jun 13 2025
    Everyone has goals — some are monumental, others modest — but every goal matters. Join guest Szu-chi Huang, an expert in sustaining enthusiasm for individuals, customers, and employees across global corporations and organizations, as she delves into the science of motivation. Discover how the gap between where you are and where you want to be is bridged by a dynamic blend of psychology, sociology, behavioral economics, neuroscience, and the latest in AI. The secret to achieving your goals? Stay adaptable. If one approach falters, switch gears to keep your drive alive, Huang tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Szu-chi HuangConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces Szu-Chi Huang, professor of marketing at Stanford GSB.(00:03:31) Studying MotivationSzu-chi shares what led her to study motivational science(00:04:03) Defining MotivationMotivation as the drive to close the gap between current and ideal self.(00:04:57) The Science of MotivationStudying motivation through behavioral and neurological data.(00:05:48) Why It Matters in BusinessHow motivation science applies to leaders, teams, and customers.(00:06:39) Motivation FrameworkThe strategies needed in order to stay motivated over time.(00:07:42) The Mindset of MotivationThe different mindsets needed throughout the stages of motivation.(00:09:21) Motivating Kids to Choose HealthyA Collaboration with UNICEF to study what motivates children.(00:10:55) Gamified Coupons in PanamaA study using gamified coupons to influence children's food choices.(00:14:26) Loyalty Programs as MotivationHow customer reward programs act as structured goal journeys.(00:16:47) Progress Versus PurposeThe different incentives needed in each stage of loyalty programs.(00:18:29) Retirement Saving LessonsHow financial institutions apply motivational science to long-term goals.(00:21:12) Motivation in Social ContextThe role of social connections in goal pursuit and sustaining motivation.(00:26:10) Designing Apps for MotivationHow redesigning user interfaces can help users stay motivated.(00:27:20) AI as a Motivation CoachUsing AI to personalize feedback across all stages of goal pursuit.(00:30:09) Starting and Sustaining a GoalPractical strategies for launching and sustaining a goal.(00:31:57) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook
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    33 minutos
  • Best of: Training the next generation of entrepreneurs

    Best of: Training the next generation of entrepreneurs
    Jun 6 2025
    It’s graduation season here at Stanford and students are getting ready to collect their diplomas and take their education out into the real world. A couple years ago, we sat down with Tina Seelig, a professor in our Management Science and Engineering department who’s done a lot of research on how we can teach skills including imagination, creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship — all things that can come in handy when you’re setting out to make a positive contribution to the world. We’re re-running this episode today, so whether you’re a new grad trying to figure out your next steps, or someone simply looking for a solution to a big challenge, we hope you’ll tune in again and be inspired. Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Tina SeeligConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces Tina Seelig, professor of management science and engineering at Stanford University.(00:02:04) Is Entrepreneurship Teachable?Whether entrepreneurial traits can be learned or are innate.(00:04:22) Parsing the Creative ProcessDifferences between imagination, creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship.(00:05:52) Universality of Entrepreneurial SkillsHow entrepreneurial skills apply to industries beyond tech.(00:07:33) Teaching with FramestormingA method to redefine problems before jumping to solutions.(00:10:29) Framestorming vs BrainstormingThe concept of “framestorming” and why it’s critical for innovation.(00:12:05) Inventing the Future CourseTina’s course where students debate the ethics of emerging technologies.(00:13:35) Creativity and Ethical ConsiderationsThe importance of separating ideas from judgment while innovating.(00:16:20) Anticipating the DownsideHow students often identify ethical risks in technologies even experts miss.(00:18:49) Creativity and LeadershipWhy leaders need creative problem-solving and entrepreneurial thinking.(00:19:42) Teaching LeadershipCultivating leadership through values-driven education and training.(00:21:01) Combatting Leadership StereotypesCreating diversity cohorts to show leadership comes in many forms.(00:22:58) How to Engineer Your Own LuckOutlining the differences between fortune, chance, and luck.(00:25:50) The Micro-Decisions of LuckHow consistent effort and initiative lead to perceived “luck.”(00:27:34) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook
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    29 minutos
  • The future of learning to read

    The future of learning to read
    May 30 2025
    Jason Yeatman is an expert in the neurobiology of literacy whose lab is fostering a virtuous research cycle between academia and school communities, aligning scientific inquiry with real-world needs of students, parents, and educators. His lab has developed ROAR – the Rapid Online Assessment of Reading—a gamified, web-based dyslexia screening tool. ROAR provides fast, precise, and scalable assessments, helping educators identify and get support to struggling students. We’re aligning cutting-edge reading science with the challenges teachers face every day, Yeatman tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Listen to the end to hear a question from one of our listeners for Professor Renee Zhao, as well as Professor Zhao's response. Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Jason YeatmanRapid Online Assessment of Reading (ROAR)Jason and his team just launched ROAR@Home BETA, a parent research portal. Any parent who listens can sign up for ROAR here - https://roar.stanford.edu/signup/Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces Jason Yeatman, a professor of pediatrics education and psychology at Stanford University.(00:03:12) Why Reading?Why Jason dedicated his career to studying reading acquisition.(00:04:12) Are We Built to Read?How reading is a relatively new invention using older brain systems.(00:06:41) Reading as a ContinuumWhether reading ability is distributed like other genetic human traits.(00:07:53) Defining DyslexiaReframing dyslexia as a label for support, not a binary diagnosis.(00:10:19) Phonological AwarenessUnderstanding how speech sound recognition underpins reading.(00:13:37) Nature vs. NurtureThe influence of both genetics and environment in reading ability.(00:16:40) The Origin of ROARAn online reading assessment tool created during the pandemic.(00:19:06) ROAR’s EffectivenessThe accuracy in which ROAR can assess reading capability.(00:22:45) Reading Interventions That WorkExpanding support with evidence-based interventions for all ages.(00:25:25) Personalized DiagnosesTailoring interventions based on detailed individual skill diagnostics.(00:26:36) Scaling ROARScaling ROAR via an academic research-practice partnership model.(00:29:34) Infrastructure Behind ROARThe team and technology required to scale ROAR in schools.(00:31:54) Future of Reading AssessmentExpanding ROAR to include other dimensions of reading development.(00:33:44) Reading Across LanguagesWhy English poses more reading difficulties than many languages.(00:35:34) Listener Q&ANew segment answering audience questions from past episodes.(00:37:46) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook
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    39 minutos
  • The future of sleep

    The future of sleep
    May 23 2025
    Neurobiologist Jamie Zeitzer is an expert on sleep – or, more accurately, an expert on why so many can’t sleep. He notes that, ironically, it’s often anxiety about sleep that prevents good sleep. In short, we lose sleep over lost sleep. Wearables and other tools can help but only to a point, and medications do not induce natural sleep. Instead, he counsels consistent routines, less stimulation at bedtime, and cognitive behavioral therapy to reduce worry about insomnia. Unfortunately, you can’t work harder to get better sleep – you have to learn to relax, Zeitzer tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Jamie ZeitzerConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces guest Jamie Zeitzer, professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford University.(00:03:12) Understanding Circadian RhythmsHow the biological clock regulates sleep and other body functions.(00:04:57) The Mystery of Sleep’s PurposeWhat is still unknown about the fundamental need for sleep.(00:06:00) Light and the Circadian ClockThe impact light exposure has on the body’s internal sleep timing.(00:08:13) Day and Night Light ContrastThe importance of creating a light-dark contrast for healthy rhythms.(00:11:18) Phones, Screens, and the Blue LightWhether blue light from screen use affects sleep quality.(00:13:49) Defining and Diagnosing Sleep ProblemsHow stress and over-focus on sleep quality worsen insomnia.(00:16:02) Sleep Anxiety and WearablesThe psychological downsides of sleep data from tracking devices.(00:17:14) CBT-I and Rethinking InsomniaMentally reframing sleep with cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia.(00:21:21) Desynchronized Sleep PatternsStudying student sleep patterns to separate circadian vs. sleep effects.(00:23:49) Shift Work and Circadian MisalignmentThe difficulty of re-aligning circadian clocks in rotating shifts.(00:26:26) Effectiveness of Sleep MedicationsThe various drugs used to promote sleep and their pros and cons.(00:29:46) Circadian “Sleep Cliff” and MelatoninThe brain’s “wake zone” before sleep and the limited effects of melatonin.(00:32:52) Do’s & Don’ts for Better SleepAdvice for those looking to improve their sleep quality.(00:34:55) Alcohol and Caffeine EffectsHow metabolism influences the effects of alcohol and caffeine on sleep.(00:37:24) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook
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    38 minutos
  • The future of geriatric care

    The future of geriatric care
    May 16 2025

    Deborah Kado is a geriatrician who believes her field is misunderstood. Her interest in the science of aging began with a childhood encounter in a nursing home but recently resulted in intriguing work in which Kado linked microbes in the gut to vitamin D metabolism and poor sleep. Kado refuses to blame aging alone for health problems, advocating for better care regardless of age. It’s never too late to strive for better health, Kado tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.

    Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.

    Episode Reference Links:

    • Stanford Profile: Deborah Kado

    Connect With Us:

    • Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website
    • Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon
    • Connect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook

    Chapters:

    (00:00:00) Introduction

    Russ Altman introduces guest Deborah Kado, a professor of medicine and epidemiology at Stanford University.

    (00:03:22) Origin Story in Geriatrics

    How a childhood encounter led to Deborah’s career in geriatrics.

    (00:06:04) Geriatrics vs. Gerontology

    The clinical and research distinctions between the two related fields.

    (00:06:58) Rethinking Aging

    Reframing aging as a lifelong process rather than decline and loss.

    (00:08:34) Patient Care Approach

    Why symptoms should be investigated, not dismissed as inevitable aging.

    (00:11:33) Linking Bone Health, Gut, and Brain

    The surprising relationship between microbiomes, bones, and cognition.

    (00:14:34) Vitamin D: Storage vs. Active Form

    Why only the active form of vitamin D correlates with microbiome health.

    (00:17:22) Gut Health and Sleep

    How better sleep quality is linked to healthier microbiomes.

    (00:21:20) Medical Education & Geriatric Training

    The shortage of geriatrics training in U.S. medical schools.

    (00:23:08) Measuring Geriatric Knowledge

    The challenges and efforts to measure student knowledge about aging.

    (00:27:24) Takeaways for Medical Professionals

    Two anecdotes where symptoms were misattributed to old age.

    (00:30:51) Empowering Aging Patients

    Advice to aging individuals: agency, purpose, and not settling for less care.

    (00:34:02) Conclusion

    Connect With Us:

    Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website

    Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon

    Connect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook
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    35 minutos
  • Best of: The future of educational technology

    Best of: The future of educational technology
    May 9 2025

    It's teacher appreciation week and along with schools across the country, we here at The Future of Everything want to send out a heartfelt thank you to the teachers who make a difference every day in the lives of our children and in society as a whole. In light of this, we’re re-running an education related episode, and more specifically one on the future of educational technology with the Dean of the Stanford School of Education, Dan Schwartz. Dan is exploring effective ways to use AI in the classroom to support teachers–not to replace them–and to enhance student learning. We hope you’ll take a moment to tune in again and enjoy.

    Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.

    Episode Reference Links:

    • Stanford Profile: Daniel Schwartz

    Connect With Us:

    • Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website
    • Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon
    • Connect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook

    Chapters:

    (00:00:00) Introduction

    Host Russ Altman introduces guest Dan Schwartz, Dean of the School of Education at Stanford University.

    (00:01:44) The Role of AI in Modern Education

    The widespread reactions and implications of AI in education.

    (00:02:59) Technology in the Classroom

    The historical and evolving relationship between technology and education.

    (00:04:51) Engaging Students with AI

    How AI can enhance engagement through innovative teaching.

    (00:07:45) Impact of AI on Student Learning

    The balance between AI tools and maintaining educational standards.

    (00:13:21) Challenges with EdTech Collaboration

    Concerns about industry prioritizing speed over creativity in learning tools.

    (00:15:23) Teachers Adapting to AI

    The role of teachers in effectively integrating AI into the classroom.

    (00:18:21) Assessment and Grading with AI

    The potential and concerns of using AI for educational assessment

    (00:22:16) AI and Conceptual Understanding

    How AI can shift focus from task completion to true understanding.

    (00:24:49) Physical Activity and Learning

    The connection between physical activity and improved learning outcomes.

    (00:28:59) Conclusion

    Connect With Us:

    Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website

    Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon

    Connect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook
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    30 minutos