Inflection: The talks of TED Salon, presented in partnership with Novo Nordisk

We’ve reached a pivot point in the global conversation about our bodies. In an evening of talks, four speakers delved into how science and innovation are reshaping our understanding of well-being, health and what’s possible as we age.

The event: TED Salon: Inflection, curated and hosted by Sally Kohn, and presented in partnership with Novo Nordisk

When and where: Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at the TED Theater in New York City

Speakers: Katherine Saunders, Maija Williams, Adriana Galván, Gabriella Lascano

The talks in brief:

Katherine Saunders, obesity physician

“Obesity isn’t just a lack of willpower,” says doctor Katherine Saunders — it’s a complex, chronic disease. Unpacking the science of why it’s so easy to gain weight (and so hard to lose it), she explains the evolutionary adaptations that have contributed to 42 percent of adults in the US qualifying as obese. She outlines the modern frontier of obesity treatment, including lifestyle interventions and new, powerful medications.

Maija Williams, health equity champion

In a powerful personal narrative and slam poem, healthcare executive Maija Williams exposes the stark disparities in the current system, recounting her experience dealing with a dangerous medical emergency. She delivers a passionate call to action all of us to recognize health care as a fundamental right that must be delivered equitably.

Adriana Galván, neuroscientist

Teenagers’ brains are built for growth, adaptability and calculated risk-taking, explains psychology professor and neuroscientist Adriana Galván. Drawing on 25 years of neuroscience research, she shares three powerful lessons from brain development during adolescence about embracing uncertainty, challenging the status quo and thriving on change — to help us all navigate our own lives more boldly.

Gabriella Lascano, body positivity pioneer

Gabriella Lascano rose to prominence as a plus-size influencer, advocating for respect at any size with her natural blend of confidence and self-love. She shares how the death of a friend inspired a candid reassessment of her own health, sparking a viral conversation about balancing body acceptance with the complexities of weight, obesity and self-care.

Showing off his instrumental versatility, cellist Joshua Roman performs a rendition of “Julie-O” by Mark Summer and his own composition, “Immunity.”