We Contain Multitudes | TED Radio Hour

Intro

In this episode of the TED Radio Hour, titled “We Contain Multitudes,” host Guy Raz explores the power of embracing our complexities and the impact it can have on our lives. The episode features interviews with Gabby Rivera, the writer behind Marvel’s first queer Latina superhero, America Chavez, and author Susan Cain, who discusses the importance of understanding introversion and extroversion. The episode also includes conversations with musician and podcast host Rishi Kase and Olympic athlete Allison Felix. Through these diverse perspectives, the episode highlights the significance of embracing our multitudes and challenging societal expectations.

Main Takeaways

America Chavez: A Trailblazing Superhero

• America Chavez is the first Latina queer superhero in the Marvel Universe.
• America Chavez is about heart and doing things her own way.
• Superheroes can be a source of inspiration for those who feel powerless.
• Gabby Rivera’s writing stems from the soft threads in her family’s stories.
• Gabby’s success with her novel led to an email from Marvel editor Will Moss.

Embracing Nuances and Breaking Stereotypes

• Embracing the nuances of being human can lead to making art, finding joy, and breaking records.
• Gabby wanted to give America the space to be human, vulnerable, and discover herself.
• Gabby enrolled America in Justice Sonia Sotomayor University to give her a safe and representative space.
• The Marvel editing team was supportive and open to Gabby’s ideas.
• There were mixed responses from Marvel fans about Gabby’s America Chavez comic series.

The Power of Introversion and Multitudes

• The labels of introvert and extrovert were introduced by Carl Jung in 1910.
• Author Susan Cain argues that our culture is biased towards extroverted self-presentation.
• Holding two truths at the same time, accepting differences and similarities, makes us whole.
• The human experience contains multitudes of emotions and nuances.
• The paradox of tragedy is the concept of why humans enjoy sad music, movies, and tragic dramas.

Challenges and Triumphs in Music and Athletics

• Rishi Kase’s journey as a musician and podcast host.
• The personal experience of creating music includes all the things that the artist lived through.
• Allison Felix’s challenges as a professional athlete and mother.
• Sports companies often tell women they can have it all.
• People should not be forced to choose between parenting and doing the work they love.

Summary

America Chavez: A Trailblazing Superhero

Gabby Rivera’s comic book series follows the adventures of Marvel character, America Chavez, the first queer Latina superhero with her own series. The series was a big deal for the comic book genre and for Rivera, who is also queer and Latina. Despite facing opposition and feeling like she didn’t belong, writer Gabby Rivera persevered and created a powerful character that defies stereotypes and inspires representation in the comic book world.

Embracing Nuances and Breaking Stereotypes

Gabby Rivera wanted to give America Chavez the space to be human, vulnerable, and discover herself. Enrolling America in Justice Sonia Sotomayor University provided a safe and representative space for the character. The Marvel editing team was supportive and open to Gabby’s ideas, although there were mixed responses from Marvel fans about her America Chavez comic series. Despite the challenges, Gabby’s success with her novel led to an email from Marvel editor Will Moss, changing her life and opening doors for diverse storytelling.

The Power of Introversion and Multitudes

Author Susan Cain discusses the importance of understanding introversion and extroversion. Our culture is biased towards extroverted self-presentation, which can be a waste of talent and energy for introverts. Embracing our multitudes and accepting the complexities of being human makes us whole. The paradox of tragedy explores why humans enjoy sad music and tragic stories, as it allows us to experience longing and brings us closer to what we desire.

Challenges and Triumphs in Music and Athletics

Rishi Kase’s journey as a musician and podcast host taught him about the personal experience of creating music and the impact it can have on both the artist and the audience. Allison Felix faced challenges as a professional athlete and mother, including unfair maternity policies from sponsors. She fought for change and became the most decorated American track and field athlete of all time, representing women, mothers, and anyone who has been told their story is over. Both Rishi and Allison demonstrate the importance of acknowledging fears and fighting for change.

Conclusion

This episode of the TED Radio Hour explores the power of embracing our multitudes and defying societal expectations. From the groundbreaking character of America Chavez to the importance of understanding introversion and extroversion, the episode highlights the significance of embracing our complexities. It also showcases the challenges and triumphs in the worlds of music and athletics, reminding us to fight for change and celebrate the diverse stories that make us who we are.