Quantum Potential

Aug 13, 2026 — In this special episode of the Quantum Potential podcast, Provost C. Cybele Raver revisits some of the episodes that left an impression on listeners and on her. Hear from experts, including chemist Brian Bachmann, principal investigator for the...

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Jul 16, 2026 — What can poetry teach us about essential life lessons like paying attention, embracing uncertainty, and finding ways to begin new chapters in our lives? Join acclaimed poet Major Jackson, Gertrude Conaway Vanderbilt Chair in the Humanities, professor...

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Jun 11, 2026 — We all love to talk. Some like to listen, too. But language is far more than just a tool we use to communicate; it can impact democracy, identity and access. In this episode of the Quantum Potential podcast, Provost C. Cybele Raver talks with Akshya...

No transcript available.

May 14, 2026 — What defines happiness? And how does that impact the pursuit of achievement, success and a meaningful life? These are some powerful questions no matter where you are in life. On this episode of the Quantum Potential podcast, Provost C. Cybele Raver...

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Apr 23, 2026 — Remember during the COVID-19 pandemic when people were hoarding everything from toilet paper to potato chips? Or when the desire for a “must have” item drives buyers into strategic chaos to make that purchase? That type of psychological panic-buying is...

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Apr 09, 2026 — Right now in our country, political polarization and divisive anger between parties make some feel that our democracy is breaking. How can democratic societies endure—and even flourish—amid deep and persistent disagreement? On this episode of the...

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Mar 26, 2026 — What makes a true story more compelling than fiction? Documentary films have the ability to shine a light on real-life experiences, issues and people in unique and creative ways. They pull viewers in by showing a slice of life through a specific...

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Mar 12, 2026 — More than 50 million people in the United States have some form of hearing loss. The intricate science around improving hearing is advancing at a rapid pace with the help of innovative researchers like Jack Noble, assistant professor of electrical and...

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Feb 26, 2026 — What songs have a spot on the playlist of your life? What music sparks emotions around specific moments in time? In this episode of the Quantum Potential podcast, Provost C. Cybele Raver and Melanie Lowe, associate professor of musicology, explore the...

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Feb 12, 2026 — What does it mean to build a great research university for the 21st century—one that is both deeply rooted and boldly distributed? In this special episode of the Quantum Potential podcast, Provost C. Cybele Raver and Vanderbilt Chancellor Daniel...

No transcript available.