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February 08, 2026

Protecting America\'s Rivers & The Science of Feeling Loved

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Episode Segments

Protecting America\'s Rivers: Why Less Than 20% Are Adequately Safeguarded

Julian Olden, PhD, Professor of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences at the University of Washington, conducted the first comprehensive review of river protection in the US, and found that that less than 20% of American rivers are adequately protected—just 12% in the lower 48 states. He discussed how protecting rivers requires more than just land-based regulations. He explained why protecting upstream watersheds reduces the need for expensive water treatment plants and provides cleaner drinking water to downstream communitie

The Science of Feeling Loved: Why Connection Matters More Than You Think

What if the key to feeling more loved isn\'t waiting to receive it, but learning to give it first? Sonja Lyubomirsky, PhD, Distinguished Professor of Psychology at the University of California, Riverside, author of “How to Feel Loved: The Five Mindsets That Get You More of What Matters Most”, one of the world\'s leading happiness scientists, reveals that happiness comes down to two core components.

Trees and Heart Health: How Urban Forests Reduce Cardiovascular Disease

Can trees actually protect your heart? Peter James, ScD, Associate Professor in the Department of Public Health Sciences at the University of California, Davis School of Medicine, led a study that found that living near trees reduces cardiovascular disease risk by 4%, and that the protective effect persists across wealthy and poor neighborhoods alike. He believes his research provides sufficient evidence for urban planners, landscape architects, and land managers to seek to increase tree density in future development.

Friday • March 20

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