Bergen Banter

Estimates place global spending on health and wellness activities, products and programs at $6.8 trillion, with expectations that it will climb to nearly $10 trillion by 2030. There’s a clear emphasis on wellness. But are we actually healthier? Join Professor Julie Seda for this conversation on the state of wellness in the U.S. and tips for living a healthier life.

A harsh winter. A heat wave. A hard freeze. A recipe for disaster for regional agriculture. Professor Charles Sontag discusses the science behind a series of unfortunate events that decimated crops this spring that will inevitably lead to economic hardship, increased costs and supply shortages. With the changing climate increasing the frequency of these “agricultural apocalypses,” can researchers unlock strategies to ensure fresh produce remains on our kitchen tables? Listen to find out.

The circumstances surrounding the mysterious disappearance of Nancy Guthrie have vexed the public and law enforcement alike. As the news cycle drives the case further out of view and leads have seemingly resulted in dead-ends, criminal justice Professor Frank Corrigan explains how investigators approach a missing person case, the challenges they face and the tools they use to bring someone home - including Nancy Guthrie.

We have come to rely on the stability of our digital systems. From banking to traveling and even the delivery of higher education, interconnected technology has revolutionized our way of life. But what happens when a link in the chain breaks? Join Professor George Liluashvili for this conversation on the sometimes fragile architecture behind our digital lives, cybersecurity and how consumers can protect themselves.

The stunning U.S.-led capture and arrest of Venezuela President Nicolas Maduro shocked the world two weeks ago due to its suddenness. Join Professor Dr. Ilan Ehrlich as he takes a deep dive on the country, its history, economics and its path forward while discussing the U.S. intervention, regime change and the impact on the greater Latin American community.

Americans identifying as religious, specifically as Christian, has steadily declined by nearly a third during the past 50 years. However, recent data indicate the trend may have bottomed out. In the season two premiere of Bergen Banter, philosophy and religion Professor Dr. Clemens Reinke discusses the current state of religious affiliation in the United States, while providing a historical context and a window into the future faithful.

In part two of the Bergen Banter season one finale, Professor Dr. Kevin Olbrys continues the conversation on de-extinction by providing a philosophical perspective on the relationship between science and ethics, potential unintended consequences and “the greater good.”

In part one of Bergen Banter’s season finale, biotechnology professor John Smalley explains the science behind the concept of “de-extinction” popularized by companies such as Colossal. Is running from a T-Rex far behind?

Watch for part two of the season finale in May - a conversation on the ethics of this work.

A series of highly visible incidents have placed a spotlight on air travel, the airline industry and federal regulations. Retired airplane pilot Professor William Klappert analyzes the recent headlines and discusses what must occur to ensure public confidence and safety.

After a 2.4 magnitude earthquake with an epicenter in Paramus rattled nerves a few weeks ago, Professor Dr. Fred Marton digs into seismology and answers if New Jersey could ever experience "the big one."