Stride & Saunter

Of the many near-universal life experiences shared across the world, parenthood is near the top of the list. For as long as humans have roamed the earth, their parents have brought them to the very pale blue dot we all inhabit. But what of the numerous folks who choose not to have children? This week, we speak with Susannah O'Neil about her experiences being judged or confronted by others (including strangers) about her decision. Why do some feel comfortable and permitted to make such remarks? How does a biological interest in procreation give rise to social commentary on others' decisions?

Knowledge and our ability to capture it has lifted our species to great heights. It has been our foothold in scientific discovery, feats of eloquence, community and profound understanding. But we don't all prize the same knowledge or in the same ways. This week, Ian Fox joins us to discuss the ways in which we shame those who do not know what we know and how we approach knowledge in a societal context. How does shame factor into the approach many have to learning? How do cultures distinguish between knowledge and trivia?

Intense emotion has been revered, feared and everything in between since our species began introspecting. When it comes to the intensity we show others, especially in the realm of romance, complications emerge. How do we determine the proper amount of emotion to show? Where does flattery slip into fixation? This week, we explore some of the distinctions between creepy and romantic gestures and behaviors.

Recent films like Black Panther, Wonder Woman and Love, Simon have amplified a desire among moviegoers to promote better representation of our society. In the past year they have been record-breaking films, sparking conversations about topics like gender, race and sexual orientation. Celebrities like Octavia Spencer and Matt Bomer have even purchased full theaters to share these movies with children and those who can't afford tickets. What does the film industry say about issues of representation in contemporary society? How to the identities of these celebrities speak to the roles or expectations of distinct demographics and communities?

In the process of growing up, we learn a great deal about the world and the people around us. Common in all of our experiences are the truths of mortality - our abilities, our frailties and the reality of demise. But we don’t all encounter or sit with this truth at the same moment in life. This week, Dan Farina joins us to discuss the prospect of sharing this fact with a young person. How does this knowledge affect people and their relative innocence? How do we view our time in life differently upon learning about death?

Though we all share public spaces and avenues, we navigate and perceive it in distinct ways. Some notice the ground, some rarely use the sidewalk and others could tell you about every safe place to lock a bike. This week, we’re discussing a particular circumstance tied to Allston, Massachusetts and a footbridge which, previously covered in striking graffiti, has now been painted over with a mural. How do spaces like this designate ownership or artistic intent for a public? How does graffiti draw our attention where it may previously have been absent?

At every stage of life, our communities provide us with shelter, guidance, support and friendship. For millennials in particular, communities, their definitions and boundaries appear to be shifting. Young professionals away from their hometowns and looking to establish connections might resort to recreational sports leagues, book clubs or similar means of creating communities in contrast to "natural" communities. This week, we welcome Callum Melrose to discuss the phenomenon and its implications. How might millennials be more territorial about activities or relationships meant to be more stress-free and enjoyable because of a need for community?

In the pursuit of success, safety, fulfillment and various other achievements besides, people make use of their particular advantages, circumstances and tools at their disposal. Whether they are born with certain talents or seek to improve their lives through sheer effort and will, self-advancement is a relevant topic for all of us. This week, we want to examine the distinctions between talent and hard work as two, oft-compared means of achieving a goal. Does society prefer one over the other? Do we associate either with a certain class or economic background? Does one provide a more compelling story or narrative?

This week, we return to the tradition of reacting to a book of insights entitled "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff". In particular, we look at chapters encouraging us to let others be right most of the time, to imagine those around us as infants and as hundred-year-olds and to tell someone everyday something we like, appreciate or admire about them. How do these perspectives encourage empathy, thoughtfulness and creative approaches to social interaction? How to they define kindness in new ways?

Difficulties and obstacles come from all sides and throughout life. We might envision circumstances surrounding work, survival and relationships as some of the most common. But what about our internal battles with doubt? This week, Ron Levine joins us to discuss the "ego threats" we face as a result of evolutionary selection for negative thinking and anticipation. How might we learn to listen to these thoughts without obeying them? What wisdom or perspective can our doubts and negative thoughts reveal?