What role can scientists play when politics reaches a standstill?

In this episode, Tricia Friedman speaks with Nobel Prize–winning scientist Peter Agre about his extraordinary second career in science diplomacy—a path that took him from the laboratory into conversations with presidents, prime ministers, health ministers, and scientists in countries often at odds with the United States.

Agre, a physician, molecular biologist, and former president of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), shares how scientific collaboration can reduce tensions, build trust, and inform global policy on issues ranging from public health and malaria to climate change, sustainability, and food security.

Rather than portraying scientists as lone geniuses, Agre emphasizes humility, collaboration, and serendipity—arguing that scientific progress and diplomacy alike depend on relationships, listening, and shared human goals.

Peter Agre, MD, is an American physician, molecular biologist, and Nobel Laureate. He is a Bloomberg Distinguished Professor at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, director of the Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, and former president of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).

His book, Can Scientists Succeed Where Politicians Fail?, examines the history, challenges, and promise of science diplomacy in addressing global threats.

At a moment when global challenges demand cooperation—but trust in science is under strain—this conversation offers a powerful reminder: science is not just about discovery, but about connection.

Join Tricia on January 13th:

https://www.instituteforsel.net/sel-resources/teach-meets

Chapters

In this warm and curiosity-packed conversation, Tricia Friedman sits down with Brian "Uncle John" Boone, longtime contributor to the iconic Uncle John's Know It All Bathroom Reader series—now celebrating its 38th edition. Brian shares why trivia continues to captivate millions, how collaborative writing fuels the series' longevity, and why tiny bits of knowledge can strengthen community, curiosity, and even kindness.

Together, Tricia and Brian explore:

• Why trivia matters in a world overloaded with information

• How curiosity helps us build human connection

• The behind-the-scenes pitching and research process at the Bathroom Readers' Institute

• The multigenerational fandom behind the beloved series

• How educators, parents, and young writers can use trivia to inspire creativity and local storytelling

• Practical tips for idea-keeping, pitching, and overcoming rejection as a writer

This episode is perfect for educators, writers, trivia lovers, librarians, caretakers, and anyone needing a little delight at this busy time of year.

Brian Boone has spent more than two decades helping shape one of the world's most beloved trivia traditions: Uncle John's Bathroom Reader. With millions of copies sold and a fiercely loyal, multigenerational fandom, the "Know It All" series continues to turn everyday moments into delightful discoveries.

In this episode, Brian shares what keeps the series thriving after 38 editions:

• Humans are wired for curiosity. Trivia satisfies our desire to understand the world in quick, accessible ways.

• Trivia builds connection. Readers often share facts with friends, family, and even strangers—strengthening social bonds.

• Collaboration fuels creativity. The series is built by writers of different ages and backgrounds, each bringing unique lenses to history, science, pop culture, and everyday oddities.

• Research is an adventure. From public libraries to vintage magazines to listener letters, the team follows surprising threads that lead to new stories.

• Writing thrives on feedback. Brian offers honest, encouraging insight into pitching, rejection, and finding the right home for your ideas.

Tricia and Brian also discuss how educators can adapt this model for micro-projects in classrooms: school-based trivia books, local history prompts, research sprints, and collaborative student authorship.

If you're looking for a light, meaningful episode at the end of a hectic year, this conversation is a reminder that joyful learning still matters.

Join Tricia for a Futures Literacy conversation on December 12th through The Guardian Project:

m/t/taHBbURnELus?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email