Logo
    Search

    The Happy Pod: Bill Gates: Looking on the bright side

    enOctober 14, 2023

    Podcast Summary

    • Staying optimistic through shopping, hiring, and podcastsBill Gates encourages staying optimistic amidst global challenges, with examples like Blue Nile, LinkedIn, BBC World Service, and Happypod offering convenience, inspiration, and opportunities for progress.

      Staying optimistic in the face of global challenges, such as the climate crisis, is important and possible, as demonstrated by tech billionaire Bill Gates. While it's easy to focus on the negative aspects of the world, it's essential to remember the progress we've made and the potential solutions that exist. For instance, Blue Nile offers a convenient way to design and purchase unique engagement rings online. Meanwhile, LinkedIn provides access to a vast pool of professionals who might not be actively looking for new opportunities but could be excellent hires. The BBC World Service podcast offers a range of documentaries that tell inspiring stories from around the world, and the Happypod highlights positive news, from Nobel Prize wins to scientific breakthroughs. So, whether it's through shopping online, hiring on LinkedIn, or listening to uplifting podcasts, there are plenty of ways to stay optimistic and make a difference in your life and the world.

    • Bill Gates' Focus on Climate Change SolutionsBill Gates, a tech and global health pioneer, is now tackling climate change through innovative solutions like drought-resistant seeds, greener cement, and AI for extreme weather warnings, despite the large investment required.

      Bill Gates, known for revolutionizing technology and improving global health, is now focusing on climate change solutions. He's seen the devastating effects of climate change firsthand during his decades of work in Africa, which motivates him to find innovative solutions. His efforts include developing drought-resistant seeds, creating greener cement, and utilizing artificial intelligence to warn people of extreme weather. Despite the significant investment required, Gates remains optimistic about the progress being made and the potential for continued improvement. Meanwhile, 2023 marked a record year for women in the Nobel Prizes, with Claudia Goldin becoming the first woman to win the Economics Nobel Prize solo for her research on women's labor market outcomes.

    • The Importance of Women's Contributions and AchievementsRecognizing women's roles and achievements is crucial for societal growth and prosperity. Women's participation and potential should not be underestimated.

      The contributions of women in the labor force and their earnings potential are crucial for societal growth and prosperity. Professor Claudia Goldin's research on the gender pay gap and its historical context has emphasized this importance. The recognition of women's roles and achievements, as demonstrated by the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Iranian activist Nargis Mohammadi, is essential. Meanwhile, in the world of sports, Kelvin Kiptum's new world record in the Chicago marathon highlights the importance of determination and breaking barriers, whether in gender equality or athletic achievements. The impact of women's participation and their potential should not be underestimated, and societal progress depends on recognizing and valuing their contributions.

    • Determination, Partnership, and Innovation: Achieving the Impossible in Athletics and Eco-RestorationThrough determination, partnership, and innovation, incredible feats can be achieved in athletics and eco-restoration. Determination drives individuals to push beyond limits, while partnerships bring together resources and expertise to tackle complex challenges. Innovation enables us to find solutions to seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

      Incredible feats, whether in athletics or eco-restoration, can be achieved through determination, partnership, and innovation. Ed Caesar's book "2 Hours" introduces us to the astonishingly fast runner Kiptom, who set world records in marathons, leaving most of us in awe. Kiptom, who grew up in Kenya and trained without a coach, ran 5 kilometers in just 14 minutes and 17 seconds, repeating this feat multiple times throughout the race. This level of speed is unimaginable for most people. Meanwhile, in the world of eco-restoration, Redonda, a tiny Caribbean island, was transformed from a desolate rock into a thriving wildlife haven in just a few years. The restoration process required getting rid of black rats and feral goats, which was no easy task. The team had to innovate and partner with local and international agencies to remove these invasive species. The process was challenging, but the power of partnership led to a successful restoration of Redonda's biodiversity. Both stories showcase the importance of determination, partnership, and innovation in achieving the impossible. Kiptom's athletic achievements were a testament to his determination, while the restoration of Redonda required the partnership of various organizations and individuals, as well as innovative solutions to overcome challenges. These stories remind us that with the right mindset and resources, we can achieve great things.

    • Island's rich biodiversity and unique experiencesRedonda's restoration highlights the importance of preserving biodiversity hotspots and the pursuit of unique experiences, while giant pumpkin growing showcases dedication and record-breaking achievements.

      Redonda, despite its past issues with invasive species, holds significant value due to its rich biodiversity. The island's history is filled with unique experiences, such as encounters with curious monkeys and the abundance of birds. Scientifically, preserving Redonda's ecosystem is crucial as islands serve as biodiversity hotspots and are often the site of species extinctions. A healthy functioning environment increases our ability to combat extreme temperatures and pollution. Meanwhile, in a different context, the world of giant pumpkin growing showcases dedication and the pursuit of records. Travis Ginger from Minnesota broke the world record for the biggest pumpkin, weighing in at 1,247 kilograms. His success came from a combination of good techniques and a "all in or nothing" mentality. While the pumpkin could potentially yield enough flesh for 687 pies, Travis has no plans to bake that many. Instead, he aims to carve the pumpkin for the Guinness Book of World Records. Both Redonda's restoration and the world of giant pumpkin growing demonstrate the importance of dedication, resilience, and the pursuit of unique experiences.

    • From long-term dedication to groundbreaking discoveriesPersistence, curiosity, and collaboration lead to significant achievements in various fields, from pumpkin records to space exploration

      Achievements, whether setting a world record or discovering historical treasures, often result from long-term dedication and hard work. Travis Kinger's world record for the biggest pumpkin is an excellent example, as is the archaeology student's discovery of historically significant coins. NASA's recent revelation of the first images from the asteroid Bennu adds crucial insights into the earth's evolution, while the safe recovery of Fred the pig showcases the importance of community efforts. Another intriguing topic is the unearthing of the past, such as understanding the historical context behind the Glencoe massacre or learning about the origins of North and South Korea. These stories remind us of the value of persistence, curiosity, and collaboration in making sense of the world around us. Whether it's carving a pumpkin, unearthing historical treasures, or discovering the wonders of space, the journey is often as rewarding as the destination.

    • Discovering breast cancer in breast milk for early detectionResearchers found tumor DNA in breast milk, potentially leading to a new tool for early breast cancer detection via liquid biopsy. This method could detect ctDNA earlier than blood tests.

      Researchers in Barcelona have discovered tumor DNA in breast milk, which could lead to the development of a new tool for early detection of breast cancer through a liquid biopsy of mother's milk. A pregnant woman who was later diagnosed with breast cancer provided a breast milk sample collected 18 months before her diagnosis, and researchers were able to find the same mutations in the breast milk sample as in the breast tumor. This discovery is significant because liquid biopsies from blood are not yet sensitive enough to detect the small amount of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) present in the blood for early breast cancer detection. In 13 out of 15 patients, researchers were able to detect ctDNA in breast milk but not in blood samples. The team is seeking funding to conduct a prospective trial with 5,000 healthy pregnant women to determine if this test is sensitive and specific enough for early breast cancer detection. This discovery could potentially help generations of women and their families by providing an additional tool for early detection of breast cancer. The team's reaction was a collaborative effort between the patient, lab members, and clinicians, and the potential rewards of this research are significant as it could lead to improved healthcare for future generations.

    • Unique competitions celebrating exceptional individuals or animalsMontenegro's competition for the laziest citizen and Alaska's Fat Bear Week showcase unique individuals or animals, bringing people together from around the world.

      People from different parts of the world celebrate unique competitions that showcase exceptional individuals or animals. The Montenegrin competition for the laziest citizen and Alaska's Fat Bear Week are two examples of this trend. Montenegro's competition had two winners, Lydia Markovich and Filip Knezovich, who shared the prize. In contrast, Fat Bear Week, held in Alaska, celebrates the largest brown bears and invites fans from around the world to vote for their favorite. Grazer, a mother of two cubs, won this year's competition with over 108,000 votes. The competition is not just about size, but also about each bear's story and challenges. Grazer's combination of skill and toughness made her a successful and adaptable bear in the habitat. The competition started in 2014 and has since become an Internet sensation, with over a million votes counted this year. These competitions highlight the unique qualities and stories of individuals or animals, bringing people together from around the world.

    • Explore flexible and budget-friendly short-term health insurance plansUnitedHealthcare offers short-term and fixed indemnity insurance plans underwritten by Golden Rule Insurance Company, providing coverage for a month or under a year, and helping manage out-of-pocket costs without typical requirements and restrictions.

      Having extra health coverage can be beneficial. UnitedHealthcare offers flexible and budget-friendly short-term insurance plans underwritten by Golden Rule Insurance Company, which can provide coverage for a month or under a year. Additionally, UnitedHealthcare's Health ProtectorGuard fixed indemnity insurance plans, also underwritten by Golden Rule Insurance Company, supplement primary plans and help manage out-of-pocket costs without typical requirements and restrictions. Being "a little extra" in health care can pay off in the long run, and UnitedHealthcare makes it easy to explore these options. Visit uhone.com to learn more and find the Health ProtectorGuard plan that suits your needs.

    Recent Episodes from Global News Podcast

    Biden addresses age concerns head on

    Biden addresses age concerns head on

    US President Joe Biden has spoken at a rally in North Carolina - his first public event since he struggled in the first televised debate of the 2024 presidential campaign. He directly addressed concerns about his age, admitting he doesn't debate like he used to, but "when you get knocked down, you get back up". His Republican opponent, Donald Trump, also held a rally. He boasted to voters in Virginia about his past presidential record and claimed victory in Thursday's debate. Also: The roof of the main airport terminal in the Indian city of Delhi collapses in heavy rain, and the Colombian schoolchildren being lured by rebels on TikTok.

    Global News Podcast
    enJune 28, 2024

    US Democrats debate Biden's fitness as candidate

    US Democrats debate Biden's fitness as candidate

    After president Joe Biden's faltering performance in the TV debate with Donald Trump there are calls to replace him. Also, Iranians are voting to elect a new president to replace Ebrahim Raisi who was killed last month in a helicopter crash, and why radioactive rhino horns help conservation efforts.

    Global News Podcast
    enJune 28, 2024

    The BBC tracks down a people smuggler

    The BBC tracks down a people smuggler

    He is thought to organise illegal boat crossings between France and the UK, including a trip in April which resulted in the death of a seven-year-old girl. Also in this podcast: Joe Biden and Donald Trump prepare to go head-to-head in their first election debate, Bolivia's opposition says the attempted military coup on Wednesday was staged by the president, and Denmark introduces the world's first tax on cows.

    Global News Podcast
    enJune 27, 2024

    Bolivian leader condemns coup attempt in La Paz

    Bolivian leader condemns coup attempt in La Paz

    The president of Bolivia, Luis Arce, seems to have defeated a military coup attempt in the city. He later made a social media address from inside the presidential palace, a short time after a tank knocked down a main gate, allowing troops to enter the complex. Also: Sunak and Starmer clash in final UK election debate, and music festival blamed for gazelle deaths in Spain.

    Global News Podcast
    enJune 27, 2024

    Wikileaks founder Julian Assange freed from British prison after 14-year legal fight

    Wikileaks founder Julian Assange freed from British prison after 14-year legal fight

    Julian Assange has for years fought extradition to the United States, accused of leaking a huge quantity of classified defence documents. He will now return to Australia, where his wife Stella Assange is waiting for him. But first, he has to appear in court in a United States territory in the pacific. Also on this podcast, protests erupt in Kenya over new tax proposals, Israel's supreme court orders ultra-orthodox religious students can no longer avoid being drafted into the military, and why a sample of dirt and rocks from the far side of the moon has scientists excited.

    Global News Podcast
    enJune 25, 2024

    At least 20 dead in church and synagogue attacks in southern Russia

    At least 20 dead in church and synagogue attacks in southern Russia

    Footage posted on social media show people shooting at police cars. Among the dead are 15 police officers. The attacks targeted churches and synagogues in Derbent and Makhachkala. Investigators say five gunmen were killed. Most of the attackers, they said, came from one small area of Dagestan. In its first comments, the Kremlin dismissed the possibility of another wave of Islamist violence in the Northern Caucasus. Also: a huge fire at a lithium battery factory in South Korea kills 22 people including 18 Chinese workers, and Princess Anne - the sister of King Charles - has been admitted to hospital in England after an incident involving a horse.

    Global News Podcast
    enJune 24, 2024

    Related Episodes

    The case for stubborn optimism on climate | Christiana Figueres

    The case for stubborn optimism on climate | Christiana Figueres

    "This decade is a moment of choice unlike any we have ever lived," says Christiana Figueres, the architect of the historic 2015 Paris Agreement. The daughter of Costa Rica's beloved President José Figueres Ferrer, she shares how her father's unwillingness to lose the country he loved taught her how stubborn optimism can catalyze action and change. With an unshakeable determination to fight for the generations that will come after us, Figueres describes what stubborn optimism is (and isn't) -- and urges everyone to envision and work for the future they want for humanity.

    Bonus Episode: Kelp Farming, for the Climate

    Bonus Episode: Kelp Farming, for the Climate
    As part of our series about oceans, we're featuring a special bonus episode from our friends at Gimlet's How to Save a Planet. Hosts Alex Blumberg and Ayana Elizabeth Johnson explore how seaweed and giant kelp can help us address climate change and how fisherman Bren Smith has become kelp's unlikely evangelist. Listen to more episodes of How to Save a Planet on Spotify, including part II of Bren Smith's story. Follow How to Save a Planet and host Alex Blumberg and Ayana Elizabeth Johnson on Twitter. (Warning: This episode contains some explicit language).

    Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    NPR Privacy Policy

    6. Nature's bottom line: the wealth of biodiversity

    6. Nature's bottom line: the wealth of biodiversity

    Biodiversity and nature have emerged as a prominent next focus for many investors, given how closely they are intertwined with the challenges of climate change.

    In this episode, we speak with two experts: Thomas Viegas, Partnerships Lead at the TNFD and Liudmila Strakodonskaya, ESG Analyst at AXA Investment Managers. Together we explore the launch of the TNFD, why biodiversity loss is not only a risk but also an opportunity for investors, the adoption of new standards, the development of innovative investment products, and ways that investors can begin to collaborate. 

    Resources mentioned:
    -Report: WWF- Living Planet Report 2022
    -Research: IPBES- Models of drivers of biodiversity and ecosystem change
    -Book: Robin Wall Kimmerer- Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants 

    The Future Farmers

    The Future Farmers

    Given climate change, rapid urbanization and food supply/security issues, how will we feed ourselves as we move into the future? Can we continue to just rely on traditional farming given weather-related issues and the impact on climate change? What role can vertical/indoor farming play in addressing the challenges? In this latest episode of The Global List Podcast, we travel to Copenhagen, Denmark, for a conversation with Anders Riemann, the Founder and CEO of Nordic Harvest – Europe’s largest vertical farm. 

    How one of world’s largest food companies is rethinking supply chains

    How one of world’s largest food companies is rethinking supply chains

    In this episode of the ESG Insider podcast, we sit down with Mars, one of the largest food and confectionary companies in the world, on the sidelines of the GreenBiz conference in Phoenix.   

    Kevin Rabinovitch, Global Vice President of Sustainability & Chief Climate Officer at Mars, explains how the company is rethinking its supply chains as part of its decarbonization strategy and to address climate change and nature-related risks. 

    "We have supply chains that weren't designed to ... tackle things like greenhouse gas emissions or, frankly, a lot of other sustainability issues," Kevin says. "At first, we thought of it as getting a better understanding of the supply chains we operate. But over time, what we've increasingly realized is that it's probably going to be as much about designing, redesigning supply chains into ways that are easier to manage and understand."

    "If we don't change what we're buying, or where we're buying it, or how we're buying it, or who we're buying it from, we're not going to make a lot of progress on our performance," Kevin adds. 

    Listen to our episode about how the Rockefeller Foundation partners with stakeholders around the world to finance solutions to issues like climate change and food systems transformation: https://www.spglobal.com/esg/podcasts/breaking-down-silos-seeking-innovative-financing-solutions-to-big-sustainability-challenges  

    GreenBiz is hosted by GreenBiz Group and S&P Global Sustainable1 is a sponsor. 

    This piece was published by S&P Global Sustainable1, a part of S&P Global.    

    Copyright ©2024 by S&P Global    

    DISCLAIMER    

    By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that S&P GLOBAL makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this Podcast. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. Unless specifically stated otherwise, S&P GLOBAL does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organization presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. The third party materials or content of any third party site referenced in this Podcast do not necessarily reflect the opinions, standards or policies of S&P GLOBAL. S&P GLOBAL assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content contained in third party materials or on third party sites referenced in this Podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced herein. Moreover, S&P GLOBAL makes no warranty that this Podcast, or the server that makes it available, is free of viruses, worms, or other elements or codes that manifest contaminating or destructive properties.