Being a kid—or raising one—has never been tougher. From AI in classrooms to social media pressures to economic stress, kids are navigating a minefield. In this two-part series, host Manoush Zomorodi explores what today’s young people are up against and what they need most from adults. This episode is Part 1 of TED Radio Hour's two-part series: "Are the kids alright?" Part 2 will be out on September 5, 2025. TED Radio Hour+ subscribers now get access to bonus episodes, with more ideas from TED speakers and a behind the scenes look with our producers. A Plus subscription also lets you listen to regular episodes (like this one!) without sponsors. Sign-up at <a href="http://plus.npr.org/ted"target="_blank" >plus.npr.org/ted</a>. To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. Learn more about sponsor message choices: <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a> <a href="https://www.npr.org/about-npr/179878450/privacy-policy">NPR Privacy Policy</a>

Are the kids alright? Part 2

Exploring the biggest questions of our time with the help of the world's greatest thinkers. Host Manoush Zomorodi inspires us to learn more about the world, our communities, and most importantly, ourselves.Get more brainy miscellany with TED Radio Hour+. Your subscription supports the show and unlocks a sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/ted