Steven Austad is a Distinguished Professor and the Protective Life Endowed Chair in Healthy Aging Research at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, as well as the Scientific Director of the American Federation for Aging Research. A former Hollywood lion trainer turned leading biologist, Austad explores the evolutionary and biological mechanisms that control how fast we age. In this episode, we dive into the science of longevity — from why island opossums age slower to what birds can teach us about extending human healthspan. We also discuss why women consistently live longer than men, despite facing more health challenges in old age, and the flaws in how aging research is conducted in sterile lab environments. Finally, Austad shares insights behind his famous $100 million bet that someone alive today will live to 150. Topics: longevity science, women’s lifespan, comparative biology, aging research, healthspan extension, evolutionary biologyFor more information about this episode, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/steven-austadThis presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

Ying Lu is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Systems Biology at Harvard Medical School. His work combines physics, biochemistry, and quantitative methods to understand the fundamental mechanisms of biological processes, particularly protein degradation. In this episode, we discuss why curiosity is the most powerful engine for scientific breakthroughs, from the discovery of CRISPR to modern weight-loss drugs. We explore the cell’s sophisticated quality control system, where a "barcode" tag called ubiquitin marks unwanted proteins for destruction by a nanoscale "shredder." Professor Lu explains how failures in this system are linked to diseases like Alzheimer's and cancer, and how his research could lead to new therapies that either inhibit or boost this process to restore health.   For more information about this episode, visit our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/ying-lu   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

#083 - Homa Bahrami: Super-Flexibility, Agile Organizations, & The Evolution of Silicon Valley In this episode, we talk with Homa Bahrami, Senior Lecturer at UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business, about how leaders and organizations can thrive in constant change. We explore her concept of super-flexibility—the ability to balance stability with adaptability—through insights drawn from decades of research in Silicon Valley. From the dot-com boom to the AI revolution, Homa breaks down what it takes to lead in a fluid world. Whether you're launching a startup or navigating a corporate career, her advice on mindset, mentorship, and agility is timely and actionable. For more information about this episode, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/homa-bahrami   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

Feeling overwhelmed by the news? UC Davis Prof. Amber Boydstun explains "media storms" – why some stories dominate while others fade – and breaks down the challenges of getting reliable info from social media vs. traditional news. Learn why deep dives still matter in our fast-paced world. For more information, please visit our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/amber-boydstun   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

Why do humans everywhere tell stories, make music, and believe in the unseen? Professor Manvir Singh, an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at UC Davis, dedicates his research to understanding why human societies around the world develop such recurring traditions – from shamanism and religion to music and legal systems. In this episode, join us on a journey through the heart of human culture as Professor Singh shares insights from his immersive fieldwork with the Mentawai people of Indonesia. We dive deep into his investigations into shamanism, exploring how these ancient practices help people create order out of chaos, and uncover the complex and significant role altered states of consciousness and psychedelics have played in human societies for millennia. Tune in to explore what makes these traditions stick and how these powerful experiences have profoundly shaped what it means to be human!   For more information, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/manvir-singh   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

Is free speech truly alive on college campuses? Rollins College President, and nationally recognized advocate for liberal arts education, Grant Cornwell tackles tough questions about academic freedom, why classrooms shouldn't be "intellectually safe spaces," and the enduring value of a liberal arts degree for tackling global issues and strengthening democracy. For more information, please visit our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/grant-cornwell   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

How do businesses price the risks of climate change, from wildfires to hurricanes? UC Davis Professor Paul Griffin breaks down climate risk, corporate responsibility, and how tech like AI is changing environmental accountability. Tune in to understand the future of sustainable business and why facing reality is key.   For more information about this episode, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/paul-griffin   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

Erin Kinnally is a biological psychologist and core scientist at the California National Primate Research Center. Her work explores how early life experiences—like maternal care or social stress—can shape biology, behavior, and even gene expression through epigenetic mechanisms. In this episode, we unpack how Erin studies primates to better understand human development, discussing the ways stress can become biologically embedded, how maternal traits like "friendliness" or "impulsivity" affect infant outcomes, and how interventions during early life may support resilience. We also dive into the ethics of primate research, the nuance of working across disciplines, and why behavioral assessments matter for both monkeys and people. For more information about this episode, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/erin-kinnally   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

What do sea urchins, disappearing kelp forests, and coral gene editing have in common? In this episode, we sit down with UC Davis professor Marissa Baskett to explore how science can help restore and protect ocean ecosystems in a changing climate. She explains why kelp forests off the Northern California coast collapsed, how disease wiped out key predators like sea stars, and what scientists are doing now—like reintroducing predators, removing urchins, and even selecting heat-tolerant coral for future restoration. We also talk about how math and modeling help guide conservation decisions, and why working with local communities is key to success. If you care about the ocean and want to understand how real solutions come together, this episode is for you. For more information about this episode, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/marissa-baskett This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

Today we talk with political scientist Lauren Young from UC Davis. She studies how people decide to dissent in the face of fear, repression, and uncertainty. Drawing from fieldwork in Zimbabwe, Nigeria, and Colombia, she breaks down what drives people to protest, how emotions like hope and anger shape political behavior, and how researchers can ethically study sensitive topics like political violence. From WhatsApp messages to mass movements, this episode explores how change begins—and what risks it carries.   For more information about this episode, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/lauren-young   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

Why do some development projects succeed while others fall short? UC Davis professor Amanda Crump shares insights from her work in over 37 countries, revealing how misguided innovations, flawed policies, and overlooked local voices impact progress. From improving post-harvest storage in Tanzania to introducing cookstove technology in Sierra Leone, Amanda explores what it really takes to create lasting change in agriculture and global development.   For more information about this episode, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/amanda-crump   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

In this episode, Professor Clare Cannon explores the complex intersections of environmental justice, climate change, and public health. From her work with marginalized communities in Kettleman City to advocating for multi-species justice, Clare shares insights on building trust, empowering communities, and addressing systemic inequalities. Discover how participatory research, data-driven solutions, and thoughtful collaboration can drive meaningful change.   For more information and resources discussed, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/clare-cannon   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

Olaf Groth is a Professor of Global Strategy, Innovation, and Economics at UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business and the founder of Cambrian Futures. In this episode, we dive into the evolving landscape of AI and its impact on global strategy, economic power, and geopolitical competition. Professor Groth unpacks the shift from globalization 1.0 to a fragmented world of competing economic blocs and explores how emerging technologies—AI, digital infrastructure, and supply chain intelligence—are reshaping industries and national policies. We also discuss his FLIP IT framework for navigating uncertainty, the role of design activist leaders, and how students can prepare for a rapidly changing global economy.   For more information and resources mentioned, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/olaf-groth This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

What makes a photograph truly timeless? How do curators decide which images define an era? In this episode, Rebecca Senf, Chief Curator at the Center for Creative Photography (CCP), takes us behind the scenes of photography curation. We dive into the legacy of Ansel Adams, the ongoing debate over photography as fine art, and how museums shape what the world remembers. Becky also unpacks the complex relationship between photographers and their subjects, the uniqueness (or not) of photographic prints, and why certain artistic trends—like the overuse of nudes—persist in the industry. Whether you're a photographer, an art enthusiast, or just curious about the hidden world of museum curation, this episode offers a rare inside look at how photography is preserved, studied, and redefined for future generations.   For more information about Becky and this episode, please visit our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/rebecca-senf This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.  

In this episode, Anastassia Fedyk, Assistant Professor of Finance at UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business, breaks down the psychology of financial markets, revealing how investors overreact to recombined news and inflated narratives. She also discusses her research on the risks of hype-driven investing and explores AI’s real impact on corporate growth, workforce dynamics, and innovation. Beyond finance, Professor Fedyk shares her work with the AI for Good Foundation, where she applies AI solutions to global humanitarian efforts, including war documentation and economic resilience in Ukraine.   For more information, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/anastassia-fedyk   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

In this episode, Professor Darren Zook takes us on a journey from his early days as a math student to becoming a global studies expert at UC Berkeley. He shares his unique approach to travel, emphasizing the value of immersion in local cultures to build trust and foster deeper understanding. Zook recounts pivotal experiences in India and North Korea, offering rare insights into cultural identity, comparative politics, and the complexities of societal structures. He also delves into the importance of addressing racism, the role of humor in bridging ideological divides, and how fostering open dialogue can lead to more inclusive and transformative learning.   For more information about this episode, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/darren-zook   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

Today we talk with David Riemer, a noteworthy author, seasoned marketing executive, and expert in storytelling, who brings decades of experience at the intersection of creativity, business, and innovation. Having held leadership roles at companies like Yahoo! and worked with entrepreneurs, artists, and executives, David has honed the art of turning ideas into transformative narratives. In this episode, we explore the craft of storytelling—how to make your ideas irresistible, why great storytelling drives innovation, and what it takes to connect with audiences in unforgettable ways. From crafting compelling pitches to reimagining business ideas as captivating stories, this episode is a masterclass in harnessing the power of narrative.   For more information about this episode, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/david-riemer   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

In this episode, UC Davis Professor Adam Zientek takes us on a deep dive into the unexpected role of alcohol in World War I, explaining how wine rations sustained French soldiers, boosted morale, and even played a role in mutinies. He unpacks the cultural and medical perceptions of alcohol in early 20th-century France, where wine was seen as a patriotic and medicinal necessity, while distilled spirits were demonized. Zientek also explores the psychological impact of alcohol on soldiers, how it helped manage fear in battle, and the fascinating historical parallel to modern biochemical interventions in warfare. The conversation then pivots to his latest research on the early days of aerial warfare, tracing the evolution of strategic bombing from World War I through its moral and technological implications in colonial and modern conflicts. With captivating stories from his archival research in France, this episode offers a unique look at how war, culture, and technology intertwine in unexpected ways.   For more information about this episode, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/adam-zientek   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

In this episode, Professor Stephen Garcia unpacks the psychology of competition, revealing how it often exists more in our minds than in reality. He explores how rankings, social categories, and personality traits shape competitive behaviors, sometimes hindering collaboration and long-term success. Garcia discusses motivators like love and fear, explaining how love drives sustainable growth while fear fuels short-term performance. He also highlights gender differences in competition, noting women’s preference for smaller competitive settings and the implications for rewards and performance. With practical insights on negotiation, fostering collaboration, and adopting a growth mindset, Garcia offers valuable advice for navigating competition in both academic and professional settings.   For more information about this episode, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/stephen-garcia   This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

Today we talk with Lerone Martin, Associate Professor of Religious Studies and the Martin Luther King, Jr., Centennial Chair and Director of the MLK Research and Education Institute at Stanford University. His work looks at the intersection of race and religion within American culture and politics. In this episode, we focus on his second book about J. Edger Hoover and how the FBI used religion and scare tactics to interfere with the American Civil Rights movement. We wrap up by discussing Dr. Martin’s new book which focuses on Martin Luther King Jr.’s early life and what led him, an ordinary kid from the South, to develop into the impactful leader we all celebrate today.    For more information about this episode, see our website: https://www.discoveringacademia.com/episodes/lerone-martin This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.