The Future of Everything

For many of us, this coming weekend marks the start of Daylight Saving Time, when we “spring forward” and move our clocks ahead by an hour. While the extra evening daylight can be one of the joys of the summer months, the time change has been known to disrupt our sleep. Last year we sat down with neurobiologist Jamie Zeitzer, a leading expert on sleep, to talk about practical strategies for getting a better night’s rest. As we approach this transition, it’s the perfect time to revisit that conversation. We hope you’ll add this episode to your podcast queue and give it another listen this weekend. 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: Jamie Zeitzer Connect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebook Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Jamie Zeitzer, professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford University. (00:02:01) Understanding Circadian Rhythms How the biological clock regulates sleep and other body functions. (00:03:45) The Mystery of Sleep’s Purpose What is still unknown about the fundamental need for sleep. (00:04:49) Light & the Circadian Clock The impact light exposure has on the body’s internal sleep timing. (00:07:02) Day & Night Light Contrast The importance of creating a light-dark contrast for healthy rhythms. (00:10:06) Phones, Screens, & the Blue Light Whether blue light from screen use affects sleep quality. (00:12:37) Defining & Diagnosing Sleep Problems How stress and over-focus on sleep quality worsen insomnia. (00:14:50) Sleep Anxiety & Wearables The psychological downsides of sleep data from tracking devices. (00:16:03) CBT-I & Rethinking Insomnia Mentally reframing sleep with cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (00:19:50) Desynchronized Sleep Patterns Studying student sleep patterns to separate circadian vs. sleep effects. (00:22:37) Shift Work & Circadian Misalignment The difficulty of re-aligning circadian clocks in rotating shifts. (00:25:14) Effectiveness of Sleep Medications The various drugs used to promote sleep and their pros and cons. (00:28:34) Circadian “Sleep Cliff” & Melatonin The brain’s “wake zone” before sleep and the limited effects of melatonin. (00:31:41) Do’s & Don’ts for Better Sleep Advice for those who want to improve their sleep quality. (00:33:44) Alcohol and Caffeine Effects How metabolism influences the effects of alcohol and caffeine on sleep. (00:36:13) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Heart disease should be treated just like cancer, says guest Mike McConnell, an author and expert in preventive cardiology at Stanford: Detect and stage early, then treat aggressively. In his practice, McConnell focuses on using low-dose CT imaging for detecting early coronary artery disease. He also helped pioneer the use of AI to infer cardiovascular risk from retinal scans. Such non-invasive, consumer-friendly tools could expand prevention, personalize therapy, and cut heart attacks and strokes across the board, he says. “Everybody also deserves a proactive preventive cardiologist in their phone,” McConnell tells host Russ Altman of the latest approaches to heart disease 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: Michael V. McConnell, MD, MSEE Connect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebook Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Michael McConnell, a professor of cardiology at Stanford University. (00:03:02) Reframing Heart Disease Why coronary disease should be approached the same as cancer. (00:05:46) Core Risk Factors The key drivers of cardiovascular disease, and life’s essential eight. (00:07:18) Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring How low-dose CT scanning detects disease before symptoms develop. (00:08:57) The Limits of Stress Testing Why traditional stress tests often miss early coronary disease. (00:10:18) AI in Cardiac Imaging Using AI to identify hidden risks in routine chest scans. (00:11:30) Retinal Imaging How AI analysis of retinal blood vessels can predict heart disease risk. (00:14:55) Detecting Risk Before Symptoms Why retinal and vascular changes occur long before clinical signs appear. (00:15:58) Staging Coronary Disease Using calcium scores to stage coronary disease and personalize treatment. (00:19:36) Direct-to-Consumer Prevention The rise of mobile health records, wearable devices, and AI tools. (00:22:23) Opportunities & System Challenges Balancing accessibility, guideline-based care, and healthcare system capacity. (00:25:26) AI-Powered Health Record Analysis The potential of automated reviews to identify silent risk factors. (00:27:41) Physician Adoption & System Friction Barriers to integrating early detection tools into clinical practice. (00:30:12) Advances in Treatment Overview of current cholesterol therapies and plaque stabilization. (00:33:31) Future In a Minute Rapid-fire Q&A: prevention, implementation science, and future hopes. (00:35:38) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Psychiatrist Jennifer Derenne specializes in eating disorders. Most eating disorders begin in adolescence, but they can appear much earlier – or later – in life, too. To begin healing, Derenne works with an interdisciplinary team to first stabilize and renourish her patients and uses evidence-based psychotherapy that incorporates strong family involvement. Recent clinical studies are exploring the use of psychedelics to open new avenues for treating these notoriously hard-to-treat illnesses. Eating disorders are a life-threatening medical condition, Derenne asserts, telling host Russ Altman that “food is the best medicine” 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: Jennifer L. Derenne, MDConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Jennifer Derenne, a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford University. (00:03:11) Studying Eating Disorders Jennifer’s path from pediatrics to psychiatry and studying eating disorders. (00:03:44) Types of Eating Disorders A breakdown of the main diagnoses and what distinguishes them. (00:04:59) Who Gets Eating Disorders? The age ranges of those affected and when symptoms first appear. (00:05:46) Disordered Vs. Normal Eating Distinguishing common weight concerns from dangerous dysfunction. (00:07:15) Treating Teen Eating Disorders Why family involvement is crucial and treatment focuses on behaviors. (00:08:56) Genetics & Social Media The different risk factors that can contribute to disordered eating. (00:10:08) Smartphones & Mental Health The impact of smartphones on the development of coping mechanisms. (00:12:32) Transitioning to College Why mental health can destabilize during the move to independence. (00:15:51) Treating Eating Disorders The multidisciplinary approach to treating disordered eating. (00:18:39) Supervision & Safety The importance of supervision and medical follow-ups to help prevent relapse. (00:21:03) AI in Adolescent Psychiatry ​​The pros and cons of AI tools in adolescent mental health support. (00:25:21) The Limits of Medication How medications often target comorbidities rather than the eating disorder itself. (00:27:08) Psychedelics Research Emerging studies on using psychedelics in the treatment of eating disorders. (00:29:47) Future In a Minute Rapid-fire Q&A: curiosity, treatment optimism, and becoming a book editor. (00:31:48) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Spring is right around the corner and as the weather changes and things begin to bloom, that also means the onset of allergy season. Last fall, we sat down with Tina Sindher who shared that while allergies may be affecting more people worldwide, prevention is playing catch up. If you’re someone or know someone who lives with environmental or food allergies, we hope you’ll tune into this episode to hear some of Tina’s strategies for better managing these conditions. 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: Sayantani (Tina) SindherConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Tina Sindher, a professor of medicine and allergy at Stanford University. (00:01:50) Inside the Immune Response Why our immune systems trigger allergic reactions. (00:03:31) Genes vs. Environment Whether genetics or environment drive allergy risks. (00:06:39) The Microbiome Factor The role of the microbiome and early exposures in prevention. (00:07:51) A Global Allergy Surge How global allergy trends reveal rising health challenges. (00:10:29) Potent Food Triggers Why some foods cause stronger and faster reactions. (00:12:23) Emerging Risks Whether Alpha-Gal signals new emerging allergy risks. (00:14:21) Multi-Food Allergies How multi-food allergies complicate diagnosis and treatment. (00:17:36) Preventing Allergies Early Why early food introduction may help prevent allergies. (00:19:28) Skin’s Role in Allergies The importance of infant skin health in allergy development. (00:22:13) Testing Limitations The limits of current testing methods to truly diagnose allergies. (00:23:47) Standard Testing Procedure The current methodologies deployed when testing for allergies. (00:26:02) New Therapies How new therapies like OIT and Xolair are reshaping treatment. (00:30:24) The Future of Allergies The potential of combined therapies to aid in allergy treatment. (00:33:07) Managing Seasonal Allergies How to manage seasonal allergies effectively at home. (00:35:41) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chuck Eesley, a professor of management science and engineering, studies entrepreneurship across diverse contexts – from refugee entrepreneurs in Uganda to semiconductor startups navigating U.S.-China economic policy. His research on recent export controls revealed a counterintuitive outcome: Rather than solely strengthening U.S. semiconductor innovation, these policies accelerated Chinese investment in its own domestic chip industry, boosting startups there as much as – or more than – here. This finding underscores how global technology markets are deeply interconnected: Barriers can produce unintended consequences that accelerate innovation abroad rather than protecting it at home. Open technology trade and investment create larger markets for American innovations, strengthen collaborative partnerships, and demonstrate that interconnected markets drive progress for all participants. “Entrepreneurial talent exists everywhere,” Eesley 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: Bonnie Halpern-FelsherHalpern-Felsher REACH Lab | Stanford MedicineConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Chuck Eesley, a professor of management and engineering at Stanford University. (00:03:04) Why Study Entrepreneurship? Chuck explains why entrepreneurs are drivers of modern economic growth. (00:03:30) Defining Entrepreneurship Broad vs. narrow entrepreneurship, from startups to large organizations. (00:04:33) Institutional Environments How policies and culture both shape entrepreneurial outcomes. (00:05:44) Studying Institutions & Entrepreneurship Measuring ​institutional shifts to isolate entrepreneurial outcomes. (00:08:12) Founder & Talent Incentives What’s needed for high-opportunity-cost talent to start companies. (00:09:36) AI Entrepreneurship The impact of data and compute concentration on startup dynamism. (00:11:28) Designing AI Regulation Historical examples of regulation enabling startups to compete fairly. (00:13:43) Incentives Inside Big Tech Why some incumbents support startups while others tilt the playing field. (00:15:28) Ad Placement & Misinformation Funding How digital advertising can unintentionally fund low-credibility content. (00:21:24) Misinformation Market Solution The disclosure mechanisms that may reduce misinformation incentives. (00:25:23) Semiconductors & Entrepreneurship The importance of startups in a field often dominated by large incumbents. (00:29:30) Unintended Policy Effects How U.S. policy may be accelerating Chinese semiconductor investments. (00:31:09) Competing Industrial Policies Why evaluation and iteration are essential for effective policy design. (00:32:31) Global Entrepreneurship Emerging entrepreneurship models spreading across regions and contexts. (00:36:26) The Universal Entrepreneurial Mindset Shared entrepreneurial traits across cultures, contexts, and countries. (00:37:14) Future In a Minute Rapid-fire Q&A: democratizing entrepreneurship, context, and equitable inclusivity. (00:41:02) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Developmental psychologist Bonnie Halpern-Felsher specializes in teenage health-related decision-making, especially in their use of tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, and other substances. Young people, she says, value immediate social benefits over long-term risks. In response, she supports bans on flavored nicotine products and has developed nationally and internationally used evidence-based substance use prevention and intervention programs, including some that are culturally targeted, such as her vaping prevention curriculum in Hawaii zeroing in on popular flavors like mango and poi. The reward, she says, is reduced substance use and better mental health. “Talk to your kids. Don’t lecture. Have a conversation,” Halpern-Felsher tells host Russ Altman of the best way to break through 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: Bonnie Halpern-FelsherHalpern-Felsher REACH Lab | Stanford MedicineConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Bonnie Halpern-Felsher, a developmental psychologist at Stanford University. (00:03:52) Focus on Youth Substance Use Bonnie explains her focus on studying substance behaviors in adolescents. (00:05:32) Current Trends in Youth Health The mixed indicators across behavior and mental health in youth. (00:08:46) Effective Health Communication Why long-horizon risk messaging often underperforms in adolescents. (00:11:16) Policy Translation & Advocacy How Bonnie translates research findings into policy advocacy. (00:13:54) School-Based Prevention Programs An overview of evidence-based curricula and target age groups. (00:15:04) Measuring Program Impact The evaluation approaches and challenges of the prevention programs. (00:16:41) Youth Dependence & Cessation Why addiction develops quickly and the limited treatment options. (00:18:18) Program Adaptation Across Contexts How curricula are localized without redesigning core methods. (00:21:00) Youth-Oriented Product Marketing The strategies used by substance industries to market to youth. (00:23:38) Cannabis Potency & Health Risk The link between higher THC concentrations and medical outcomes. (00:26:48) Patterns of Cannabis Use The common modes of cannabis use and related exposure risks. (00:28:10) Early Exposure & Prevention Needs The reports of substance exposure and use at increasingly early ages. (00:29:10) Guidance for Caregivers Practical guidance for caregivers concerned about substance use. (00:31:23) Future In a Minute Rapid-fire Q&A: asking for help, substance regulation, and alternate degree. (00:33:37) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As 2026 gets underway we know that many take time around this new beginning to improve not only their physical, but also their mental health. With that in mind, we’re rerunning an episode with Leanne Williams on the future of depression care. Leanne is an expert on clinical depression and is working on new ways to more precisely diagnose depression in order to develop more effective treatment. For anyone who has suffered from depression or knows someone who has, it’s an episode that provides hope for what’s on the horizon. We hope you’ll take another listen and also share this episode with anyone who you think may benefit from the conversation. Episode Reference Links: Leanne WilliamsConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Leanne Williams, a professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science at Stanford University. (00:01:43) What Is Depression? Distinguishing clinical depression from everyday sadness. (00:03:31) Current Depression Treatment Challenges The trial-and-error of traditional depression treatments and their timelines. (00:06:16) Brain Mapping and Circuit Dysfunctions Advanced imaging techniques and their role in understanding depression. (00:09:03) Diagnosing with Brain Imaging How brain imaging can complement traditional diagnostic methods in psychiatry. (00:10:22) Depression Biotypes Identifying six distinct biotypes of depression through brain imaging. (00:12:31) Cognitive Features of Depression How cognitive impairment plays a major role in certain depression biotypes. (00:14:11) Matching Treatments to Biotypes Finding appropriate treatments sooner using brain-based diagnostics. (00:15:38) Expanding Treatment Options Personalizing therapies and improving treatment outcomes based on biotypes. (00:19:03) AI in Depression Treatment Using AI to refine biotypes and predict treatment outcomes with greater accuracy. (00:22:15) Psychedelics in Depression Treatment The potential for psychedelic drugs to target specific biotypes of depression. (00:23:46) Expanding the Biotypes Framework Integrating multimodal approaches into the biotype framework. (00:27:29) Reducing Stigma in Depression How showing patients their brain imaging results reduces self-blame and stigma. (00:29:38) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pediatrician Yair Bannett studies and treats ADHD in preschool-age children. His interests stem from watching too many families struggle to understand their child’s behavior. He now focuses on improving frontline care using artificial intelligence to analyze electronic health records. One recent study explored whether doctors are making appropriate non-drug interventions before choosing to medicate children. Through his research, he hopes to raise the standard of ADHD care for thousands – and perhaps millions – of children. Early diagnosis and better care can prevent later problems, Bannett tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast. Episode Reference Links: Yair BannettConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Yair Bannett, a developmental behavioral pediatrician at Stanford University. (00:03:44) Why Study ADHD Yair’s path from primary care pediatrics to ADHD research. (00:04:32) Understanding ADHD The core symptoms and diagnostic criteria for ADHD. (00:05:57) Diagnosing ADHD in Youth Why diagnosis is challenging and relies on clinical judgment. (00:08:21) Known Causes of ADHD What is known about biological origins and environmental influence. (00:10:08) Geographic and Cultural Differences The variations in ADHD prevalence across regions and populations. (00:11:37) ADHD Across Countries Prevalence of ADHD globally and challenges with monitoring diagnosis. (00:12:23) Natural History of Untreated ADHD The lifelong persistence of ADHD and associated risks when untreated. (00:14:28) ADHD Diagnosis in Adults The challenges in identifying and diagnosing ADHD later in life. (00:16:27) ADHD Treatments An overview of the two treatment interventions used to treat ADHD. (00:18:16) Stimulant Medications The effectiveness and long-term benefits of stimulant treatments. (00:21:30) Non-Stimulant Medications When and why alternative medications for ADHD are used. (00:22:31) Non-pharmacological Interventions The alternative interventions used outside pharmacological treatments. (00:23:18) Reducing Household Chaos Strategies for structure and behavior management within the home. (00:24:55) Measuring Quality of ADHD Care Using electronic health records and AI to improve treatment. (00:28:10) Importance of Early Diagnosis The benefits of identifying ADHD before school entry. (00:29:29) Future In a Minute Rapid-fire Q&A: applying AI, collaboration, and theatre dreams. (00:31:55) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Physician-scientist Randall Stafford studies the effects of alcohol use on population health – the true health impact, he emphasizes. Stafford explains how early research suggested that drinking is beneficial – or at least not bad – for people. That mindset produced decades of wishful thinking based on inconsistent science driven by social, emotional, and industry forces. The small cardiovascular benefits, he says, are far outweighed by the risks of cancer, liver disease, depression, and other ills. Although the harms of low-level consumption are small, there is no safe level of alcohol use, Stafford 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: Randall StaffordConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Randall Stafford, a professor of medicine at Stanford University. (00:03:35) Challenges in Alcohol Research Why cultural norms and study limitations complicate evidence. (00:03:56) Historical Perspectives on Drinking How early studies suggested benefits and why those conclusions shifted. (00:09:12) Risk, Dose, and Drinking Patterns The increased risks with binge drinking and higher doses of alcohol. (00:12:15) Health Benefits vs. Lifestyle Enjoyment Clarifying what alcohol does—and does not—provide medically. (00:13:37) Alcohol and Mental Health The bidirectional effects between alcohol use and mental health. (00:17:37) Broader Mental and Social Effects Alcohol’s connection to bipolar disorder, unemployment, and social harm. (00:20:12) How Alcohol Myths Persist Why simplified conclusions endured despite contradictory data. (00:22:46) Changing Cultural Attitudes Cultural trends toward reduced drinking and alcohol-free periods. (00:25:49) Alcohol and Liver Disease The effects of alcohol beyond heavy use, including metabolic disease. (00:27:29) Strategies to Reduce Harm Way to reduce alcohol consumption and avoid binge drinking. (00:29:25) Future In a Minute Rapid-fire Q&A: avoiding alcohol, research needs, and studying liver disease. (00:31:04) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We're here to wish you a very happy New Year! We hope you’re ringing in the new year in good health and looking forward to what’s ahead in 2026. As people are setting goals and making resolutions, we’re re-running an episode today on the future of motivation. Last year, we sat down with Szu-chi Huang, an expert in motivation. She explained how science is changing our understanding of goal-setting and achievement, and offered a few tricks you can try when you feel stuck. We hope you’ll tune in again today and pick up a few insights on how to sustain enthusiasm for your goals over time. 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: Szu-chi HuangConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces Szu-chi Huang, a professor of Marketing at Stanford GSB. (00:02:13) Studying Motivation Szu-chi shares what led her to study motivational science. (00:02:45) Defining Motivation Motivation as the drive to close the gap between current and ideal self. (00:03:39) The Science of Motivation Studying motivation through behavioral and neurological data. (00:04:30) Why It Matters in Business How motivation science applies to leaders, teams, and customers. (00:05:21) The Motivation Framework The strategies needed in order to stay motivated over time. (00:06:24) Journey vs. Destination Mindset The different mindsets needed throughout the stages of motivation. (00:08:03) Motivating Kids to Choose Healthy Collaborating with UNICEF to study what motivates children. (00:09:37) Gamified Coupons in Panama A study using gamified coupons to influence children's food choices. (00:13:08) Loyalty Programs as Motivation How customer reward programs act as structured goal journeys. (00:15:29) Progress Versus Purpose The different incentives needed in each stage of loyalty programs. (00:17:11) Retirement Saving Lessons How financial institutions apply motivational science to long-term goals. (00:19:54) Motivation in Social Context The role of social connections in goal pursuit and sustaining motivation. (00:21:20) Support vs. Competition in Shared Goals The benefits and drawbacks of sharing goal journeys with others. (00:24:52) Designing Apps for Motivation How redesigning user interfaces can help users stay motivated. (00:26:02) AI as a Motivation Coach Using AI to personalize feedback across all stages of goal pursuit. (00:28:50) Starting and Sustaining a Goal Practical strategies for launching and sustaining a goal. (00:30:59) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hi everyone, it’s your host, Russ. As we celebrate another holiday season and round out the year, I want to take a moment to say thank you for listening. This show started out over 8 years ago as an experiment and has not only grown to become a passion project, but also an archive of the impactful work my colleagues across Stanford dedicate their lives to. In a time when the sheer volume of information available to us can make it hard to determine what’s accurate, I’m proud to be able to bring you information directly from expert scientists in the fields of physics, medicine, technology, computer science, law, and much more. The show, however, would not exist without you. So thank you for giving us your time and attention; it means a lot and also makes what we do possible. Happy holidays and happy new year! 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We hope you’re enjoying the holiday season with family, friends, and loved ones. We’ll be releasing new episodes again in the new year – in the meantime, today, we’re re-running a fascinating episode on The future of AI coaching. The past few years have seen an incredible boom in AI and one of our colleagues, James Landay, a professor in Computer Science, thinks that when it comes to AI and education, things are just getting started. He’s particularly excited about the potential for AI to serve as a coach or tutor. We hope you’ll take another listen to this conversation and come away with some optimism for the potential AI has to help make us smarter and healthier. 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: James LandayConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest James Landay, a professor of Computer Science at Stanford University. (00:01:44) Evolving AI Applications How large language models can replicate personal coaching experiences. (00:06:24) Role of Health Experts in AI Integrating insights from medical professionals into AI coaching systems. (00:10:01) Personalization in AI Coaching How AI coaches can adapt personalities and avatars to cater to user preferences. (00:12:30) Group Dynamics in AI Coaching Pros and cons of adding social features and group support to AI coaching systems. (00:13:48) Ambient Awareness in Technology Ambient awareness and how it enhances user engagement without active attention. (00:17:24) Using AI in Elementary Education Narrative-driven tutoring systems to inspire kids' learning and creativity. (00:22:39) Encouraging Student Writing with AI Using LLMs to motivate students to write through personalized feedback. (00:23:32) Scaling AI Educational Tools The ACORN project and creating dynamic, scalable learning experiences. (00:27:38) Human-Centered AI The concept of human-centered AI and its focus on designing for society. (00:30:13) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Microbes are awesome, says biologist Paula Welander. They have shaped Earth’s chemistry and its environment over billions of years, including oxygenating the planet to make it habitable for larger life forms. In turn, microbes have been shaped by that very same environment, evolving as the climate has evolved, she says. Welander now studies the lipid membranes of ancient microbes, which can endure for millions of years, to understand this evolution and where we might be headed in the future. Microbes are our connection to the ancient world, Welander 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: Paula V. WelanderConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Paula Welander, a professor of Earth Science at Stanford University. (00:04:06) Why Study Microbial Lipids Why lipids are essential for modern microbiology and Earth’s history. (00:05:19) Diversity of Microbial Membranes How bacteria and Archaea build different kinds of membranes. (00:07:15) Reconstructing Ancient Environments Using specific lipid biomarkers to understand the early planet. (00:09:20) Chemical Fossils vs. Organism Fossils Why microbes don’t leave traditional fossils—but their lipids do. (00:10:55) Lipids as Environmental Clues How certain lipids indicate the environments organisms lived in. (00:12:36) Archaea: A Distinct and Ancient Entity Archaea’s evolutionary importance and chemically distinct membranes. (00:15:43) The Lipid Divide Why eukaryotic membranes resemble bacterial, not Archaeal, membranes. (00:17:12) Tracing Membrane Evolution Recent breakthroughs in studying Archaeal lineages related to eukaryotes. (00:19:11) Lipid Preservation Over Time How archaeal lipids are especially reliable as long-term biomarkers. (00:20:58) Sterols as Biomarkers The role sterols, including cholesterol, play in lipid archeology. (00:23:14) Bacterial Cholesterol Discovery The discovery that a rare bacteria can synthesize sterol precursors. (00:25:02) Functional Roles of Bacterial Sterols The possible roles sterols may play in microbial membranes and cell function. (00:26:31) Archaea in the Human Gut The number and types of Archaea found in the human microbiome. (00:28:43) Archaea and Antibiotics Whether Archaea react similarly to bacteria when exposed to antibiotics. (00:29:46) Future In a Minute Rapid-fire Q&A: hope, research needs, and alternate career dreams. (00:31:43) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Molecular biologist Judith Frydman studies the nuances of protein folding and how defects in the process lead to neurodegenerative diseases. Her team studies protein folding in human cells and in model organisms, like yeast and worms, to understand the molecular events that precipitate harmful protein defects in humans. In one example, Frydman’s team explored how aging affects the creation and the quality of proteins in the brain, leading to cognitive problems. She is now looking to develop therapies – someday perhaps leading to cures – to debilitating diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, ALS, and others. The power of science gives her true hope in these important pursuits, Frydman tells host Russ Altman in 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: Judith FrydmanConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Judith Frydman, a professor of biology and genetics at Stanford University. (00:04:00) Linking Protein Folding to Aging How aging disrupts protein-folding machinery across many organisms. (00:07:16) Universal Aging Patterns The similar age-related protein-folding defects found across organisms (00:09:27) Studying Killifish Ageing Research on the African killifish as a rapid-aging model organism. (00:13:05) Ribosome Function Declines How aging causes ribosomes to stall and collide, creating faulty proteins. (00:15:31) Aging Across Species The potential factors causing alternate aging rates in different species. (20:11) What Fails Inside Aging Cells The cellular components that are leading to bad protein creation. (00:24:04) Therapeutic Approaches Potential interventions to combat cellular and neurological degeneration. (00:25:12) Gene vs. Small-Molecule Treatments How some interventions may be better suited for certain diseases. (00:27:47) Ribosome Drug Potential Why ribosomes and translation factors are viable drug targets. (00:28:56) Next Steps in Aging Research Using human skin fibroblasts to study human aging mechanisms. (00:31:46) Future In a Minute Rapid-fire Q&A: scientific progress, young researchers, and archeology. (00:33:54) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Maria Barna is an authority on ribosomes – “life’s most ancient and spectacular molecular machines.” Ribosomes make proteins in the body. There can be a thousand different types of ribosomes in a single cell, she says, each with a specific job to do. But sometimes things go awry and ribosomes get “hijacked,” leading to disease. Barna studies these “diabolical” variations to find new therapies to treat diseases ranging from cancer and COVID to Parkinson’s. When diseases hit, it’s all about the ribosomes, Barna 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: Maria BarnaConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Maria Barna, a professor of genetics at Stanford University. (00:04:21) Origins of Ribosome Research Maria explains why ribosomes became the focus of her work. (00:06:14) Ribosome Function and Scale Ribosomes’ functions and the energy required for their production. (00:08:28) Ribosomes as Machines How ribosomes influence which proteins are produced and when. (00:09:48) Ribosome Regulation The regulatory layers within ribosomes and their possible variants. (00:14:35) Ribosomes and Disease How ribosomal dysfunction is linked to a wide range of diseases. (00:18:16) Ribosome Mutations and Development Congenital disorders that can be attributed to specific ribosomal mutations. (00:20:44) RNA vs. Protein Output Why RNA measurements alone do not accurately predict protein levels. (00:24:16) Designing Ribosomes for Therapy The potential of using engineered ribosomes for target therapies. (00:26:16) Small-Molecule Ribosome Modulators Screening compounds that may enhance ribosome activity for treatments. (00:28:39) Future Ribosome Profiling Isolating individual ribosomes to understand their specific roles. (00:30:35) Future In a Minute Rapid-fire Q&A: scientific progress, community, and alternative career interest. (00:34:01) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In October, chemical engineer Will Tarpeh was awarded a 2025 MacArthur “Genius Grant” in recognition of his pioneering work to turn wastewater into a source of valuable materials. Will envisions a future in which the concept of wastewater is obsolete, thanks to advances in recycling. A couple of years ago, we sat down to talk with him about this work, and we hope you’ll take another listen today to learn more about the research Will is doing to transform the potential of wastewater into resources. 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: William Abraham TarpehConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces Will Tarpeh, a professor of chemical engineering at Stanford University. (00:03:01) Wastewater as a Modern Mine How elements like nitrogen and phosphorus can be recovered from waste. (00:04:15) Path to Sanitation Research Will shares what led to his interest in studying wastewater. (00:06:55) The Science of Separation The electrochemical and material techniques to extract valuable compounds. (00:08:37) Urine-Based Fertilizer How human urine could meet up to 30% of global fertilizer needs. (00:11:08) Drugs in Wastewater The potential of reclaiming pharmaceuticals from waste streams. (00:14:14) Decentralized Sanitation Opportunities for neighborhood or household-scale treatment systems. (00:16:48) Source Separation Systems How dividing waste at the source improves recycling and recovery. (00:18:56) Global Sanitation Challenges Ways that developing countries can adopt modern waste solutions. (00:23:51) Preventing Algal Blooms The systems that are helping to reduce nutrient pollution and dead zones. (00:27:16) The Urine Summit A community advancing urine recycling and sustainable sanitation policy. (00:28:43) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gabriel Weintraub studies how digital markets evolve. In that regard, he says platforms like Amazon, Uber, and Airbnb have already disrupted multiple verticals through their use of data and digital technologies. Now, they face both the opportunity and the challenge of leveraging AI to further transform markets, while doing so in a responsible and accountable way. Weintraub is also applying these insights to ease friction and accelerate results in government procurement and regulation. Ultimately, we must fall in love with solving the problem, not with the technology itself, Weintraub 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: Gabriel WeintraubConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Gabriel Weintraub, a professor of operations, information, and technology at Stanford University. (00:03:00) School Lunches to Digital Platforms How designing markets in Chile led Gabriel to study digital marketplaces. (00:03:57) What Makes a Good Market Outlining the core principles that constitute a well-functioning market. (00:05:29) Opportunities and Challenges Online The challenges associated with the vast data visibility of digital markets. (00:06:56) AI and the Future of Search How AI and LLMs could revolutionize digital platforms. (00:08:15) Rise of Vertical Marketplaces The new specialized markets that curate supply and ensure quality. (00:10:23) Winners and Losers in Market Shifts How technology is reshaping industries from real estate to travel. (00:12:38) Government Procurement in Chile Applying market design and AI tools to Chile’s procurement system. (00:15:00) Leadership and Adoption The role of leadership in modernizing government systems. (00:18:59) AI in Government and Regulation Using AI to help governments streamline complex bureaucratic systems. (00:21:45) Streamlining Construction Permits Piloting AI tools to speed up municipal construction-permit approvals. (00:23:20) Building an AI Strategy Creating an AI strategy that aligns with business or policy goals. (00:25:26) Workforce and Experimentation Training employees to experiment with LLMs and explore productivity gains. (00:27:36) Humans and AI Collaboration The importance of designing AI systems to augment human work, not replace it. (00:28:26) Future in a Minute Rapid-fire Q&A: AI’s impact, passion and resilience, and soccer dreams. (00:30:39) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Biochemist Lingyin Li survived breast cancer at just 30 and now works to harness the human immune system to fight cancers that have long evaded treatment. T cells, she says, are powerful cancer killers, but they can be oblivious. She and her lab colleagues have discovered a masking enzyme that squelches the immune system’s “danger signals” and are now developing drugs to block that enzyme. She likens her work to an arms race between cancer and immunotherapy. “The cancers are not getting smarter, but we are,” Li 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: Lingyin LiConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Lingyin Li, a professor of biochemistry at Stanford University. (00:03:38) Research Motivation Lingyin explains how her breast cancer diagnosis inspired her research. (00:04:31) How T-Cells Work T-cell mechanisms and why they struggle to reach solid tumors. (00:05:38) Immune System Overview Innate and adaptive immunity and how mutations make cancer recognizable. (00:07:28) Awakening the Immune System Efforts to stimulate innate immune cells to detect and expose tumors. (00:10:54) The Cancer Signal Discovery of cancer-derived DNA signals that alert the immune system. (00:13:01) Cancer’s Evasion Mechanism How tumors destroy immune signals to hide from detection. (00:14:26) ENPP1 Enzyme Identification of ENPP1 as the enzyme enabling immune evasion. (00:15:22) Balancing Immunity and Safety Role of ENPP1 in autoimmunity and the challenge of targeting it safely. (00:19:30) ENPP1 Inhibitors Development of molecules to block ENPP1 and enhance immune signaling. (00:24:55) Preclinical Findings The promising results against aggressive solid tumors in animal studies (00:28:05) From Lab to Clinic The progress toward FDA approval and preparation for human testing. (00:31:04) Future In a Minute Rapid-fire Q&A: innovation, collaboration, and the outlook for cancer treatment. (00:33:14) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On our 300th episode, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice talks about her return to Stanford after years in government and the impact she sees rapidly advancing technologies having on democracy and public policy. She says the future demands greater collaboration among industry, academia, and government to ensure promising fields like quantum computing and AI are used for the greatest good—in education, medicine, and the sciences. We are in a race that we must win, Rice tells host Russ Altman on this special 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: Condoleezza RiceConnect With Us: The Future of Everything WebsiteThreadsBlueskyMastodonTwitter/XInstagramLinkedInFacebookChapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Condoleezza Rice, former U.S. Secretary of State and a professor of political science and political economy at Stanford University. (00:04:08) Returning to Stanford Why Condoleezza returned to academia after serving as Secretary of State. (00:04:50) Higher Education & Public Trust Potential factors impacting universities' connection to the broader public. (00:07:31) Why Research Still Matters The importance of curiosity-driven, federally funded university research. (00:09:32) Hoover’s Emerging Tech Initiative An outline of the Hoover Institution’s Tech Initiative and its policies. (00:12:11) Uniting Scientists & Policymakers How engineers and researchers are engaging with policy and ethics. (00:13:41) The Race For Innovation Emerging themes and key enablers in the technology innovation race. (00:19:17) Industry in the Lead How private companies are now the primary drivers of innovation. (00:22:02) Global Tech & National Interests The tension between globalized tech firms and U.S. policy interests (00:24:35) AI & Education Using AI as a tool to enhance teaching and critical thinking in students. (00:28:30) Students Driving Policy The contribution students are making to Hoover’s tech policy work. (00:29:23) Future In a Minute Rapid-fire Q&A: hope, innovation, time, humanity, and alternate careers. (00:31:09) 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tune in on Friday, November 7th to listen to our 300th episode with a very special guest. 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.