Jackson, WY — The Teton County Library is bringing a nationally recognized voice on science communication to town for its annual Brainstorm Speaker Series. Celebrated podcaster and former MacArthur Fellow Jad Abumrad, co‑creator of the award‑winning Radiolab program, will meet local teenagers on Saturday, Nov. 15.
Event details
Abumrad’s talk, titled “Words Fail Me,” will explore what it feels like to live inside an era of information overload. Drawing on the work of Virginia Woolf, philosopher Henri Bergson, and composers such as Delia Derbyshire and Frédéric Chopin, he will trace how past technological shocks—like the telegraph and radio—reshaped human perception and consider what artificial intelligence may mean for today’s youth.
The library’s Adult Programmer, Leah Shlachter, explained that the library chose this topic because it resonates with teens navigating a flood of digital content. “Jad’s anecdotes about historical technological shocks may offer teens wisdom in approaching new technologies they encounter now and as adults,” Shlachter said.
Who can attend
The event is free and open to individual teenagers as well as whole classroom groups. No reservations are required; attendees simply walk into the library’s auditorium at 2 p.m. Adults who wish to hear the full Brainstorm presentation can join the evening session at 7 p.m. at the Center for the Arts.
Abumrad’s credentials include four Peabody Awards, a MacArthur Fellowship, and a current appointment as Distinguished Research Professor of Communication of Science and Technology at Vanderbilt University. His other podcasts include Dolly Parton’s America, More Perfect (a deep dive into the U.S. Supreme Court), and Fela Kuti: Fear No Man.
Why this matters for families
In a time when many parents worry about the impact of constant connectivity on their children, the library’s event offers a constructive, faith‑affirming space for families to discuss technology through a thoughtful, historically grounded lens. By inviting a respected educator to speak directly to teens, the library reinforces the community’s commitment to nurturing informed, responsible young citizens.
Local educators and parents are encouraged to bring their students to the talk, fostering dialogue that aligns with traditional family values and the pursuit of knowledge. The library hopes the conversation will spark curiosity rather than fear, helping teens develop discernment in a rapidly changing digital world.
About the Brainstorm Speaker Series
The Brainstorm Speaker Series is an annual program that brings nationally recognized thinkers, artists, and innovators to Jackson for free public talks. Past speakers have included authors, scientists, and cultural leaders, all selected to inspire lifelong learning among residents of all ages.
For more information about the event or to learn about future Brainstorm speakers, visit the Teton County Library’s website or call the library directly.
Original reporting: Buckrail (Jackson WY) — read the source article.
