University of California Audio Podcasts (Audio)

Southern California’s giant kelp forests are ecosystems that are potentially vulnerable to the region’s warming waters, but unlike terrestrial forests, changes in these underwater ecosystems are largely invisible to most of us. Join biologist Mohammad Sedarat and artist Oriana Poindexter in an exploration of their collaboration on the aquarium’s new art exhibition, Hold Fast, an immersive journey through our local giant kelp forests. Learn how their unique perspectives are combined to provide visitors with insight into climate change through the lens of art. Series: "Jeffrey B. Graham Perspectives on Ocean Science Lecture Series" [Science] [Show ID: 39556]

Born in the rhythms of Burkina Faso and cradled by the tradition of the griots, Adama Bilorou knows how to transform his heritage into a melody of multiple nuances—a musical journey that crosses continents and cultures. Drawing inspiration from the sights and sounds of his childhood in the Ivory Coast and his later journeys to Italy, France, the United States and Burkina Faso—Adama Bilorou has creatively composed his uniquely beautiful score. Series: "Arts Channel " [Arts and Music] [Show ID: 39524]

In the literature on lip plates in Southern Ethiopia there has been a strong emphasis on their socio-cultural importance and little information about their biocultural significance. Shauna LaTosky proposes that cultural keystone species theory and cultural keystone place theory could provide a useful frameworks for understanding relationships between the agro-pastoralist Mursi of Southern Ethiopia and the plant species and places that are integral to maintaining their cultural bodily practices. Keystone designations are applied here to the indigenous fruit tree lomay (Ximenia americana) and special clay pits in recognition of their role in the success of permanent body modification practices such as the piercing and stretching of women’s lower lips, but also in the promotion of health, social well-being and a sustainable environment. Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 39470]

How is AI reshaping industries and everyday life? And what are the ethical and societal implications of these changes? Brandie Nonnecke, Ph.D., Founding Director of the CITRIS Policy Lab at UC Berkeley, is navigating the intricate landscape of artificial intelligence, from its basic forms — such as narrow AI focused on specific tasks — to the aspirational concepts of generative AI that can be applied across various domains. In this program, Nonnecke gives a comprehensive understanding of AI, cutting through the hype to reveal its actual potential and limitations and preparing attendees for the nuanced reality of an AI-integrated future. Series: "UC Center Sacramento" [Science] [Show ID: 39566]

Musician Jake Blount delves into the intersection of Afrofuturism and folk music, particularly emphasizing its relevance in reshaping narratives of the past and envisioning alternative futures. He highlights the concept of the trans historic feedback loop, wherein the reinterpretation of historical narratives influences present and future understandings. Blount illustrates how this loop applies to his music, particularly in the context of addressing climate change.

Blount's discussion extends to the transformative power of traditional folk songs, which he sees as ripe for reinterpretation to address contemporary issues. By altering lyrics and themes, he adapts these songs to speak to the challenges of the present, particularly the looming climate crisis. This process not only updates the meaning of the songs but also engages listeners in critical conversations about the future. Series: "Arts Channel " [Humanities] [Arts and Music] [Show ID: 39553]

Across continents, material evidence of body piercing jewelry abounds in the archeological record. However, the varying procedures and processes of piercing, healing, and stretching these wounds for adornment remains unfamiliar to most archeologists. This talk discusses the early self-experimentations that led to the development of the Euro-American body piercing industry. From the late 19th throughout the 20th centuries shared personal correspondence, illustrations, and photographs document the adaptations, innovations, successes, and failures that came to coalesce a current community’s collective knowledge. Understanding the processes of these secretive explorations provides insights into many of the cross-cultural practices of the past for which no clear records remain. Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 39474]

Jason Magabo Perez, San Diego's Poet Laureate, engages with UC San Diego's Erik Mitchell in a revealing conversation about his poetic journey and its impact on community and self-awareness. Perez shares readings from his work, which weaves together narratives of grief, identity, and resilience. His ability to articulate complex emotions and historical contexts through poetry provides a window into the experiences of Filipino-American communities and broader societal issues. He also discusses his initiatives as Poet Laureate, emphasizing his commitment to making poetry accessible and relevant to a wide audience. His projects aim to foster a vibrant literary culture in San Diego, highlighting the power of poetry to build solidarity, empower youth, and give voice to marginalized communities. Series: "Writers" [Humanities] [Show ID: 39322]

A powerfully gifted musician and a scholar of Black American music, Jake Blount speaks ardently about the African roots of the banjo and the subtle, yet profound ways African Americans have shaped and defined the amorphous categories of roots music and Americana. In this riveting performance at the Loft, he shares a dynamic mix of traditional tunes and original compositions. Series: "Arts Channel " [Arts and Music] [Show ID: 39477]

What is bionic vision? Michael Beyeler, director of the Bionic Vision Lab and assistant professor of computer science at UC Santa Barbara, talks about how technology is being used to help people see again using bionic vision.

Series: "GRIT Talks" [Science] [Show ID: 39443]

Archaeological research in Mexico and Central America reveals insights into cultural practices, focusing on the history of body modification. Examining long-term patterns helps unravel motivations for adoption, change, and abandonment of these practices. The talk emphasizes how body modification histories in this region illuminate shared identities across linguistic, ethnic, and political boundaries, while also highlighting distinctions within regional traditions and individual societies. It suggests that indigenous societies viewed the human body as shaped by the community, challenging the notion of a universal boundary between the natural body and the social person. Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 39469]