Neri Oxman: Biology, Art, and Science of Design & Engineering with Nature | Lex Fridman Podcast

Neri Oxman is a designer, engineer, scientist, and artist working on computational design, synthetic biology and digital fabrication, previously at MIT, and now at OXMAN. Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors:
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TRANSCRIPT:
lexfridman.com/neri-oxman-tra...
EPISODE LINKS:
Neri's Twitter: / nerioxman
OXMAN Website: oxman.com/
OXMAN Instagram: / oxmanofficial
PODCAST INFO:
Podcast website: lexfridman.com/podcast
Apple Podcasts: apple.co/2lwqZIr
Spotify: spoti.fi/2nEwCF8
RSS: lexfridman.com/feed/podcast/
Full episodes playlist: • Lex Fridman Podcast
Clips playlist: • Lex Fridman Podcast Clips
OUTLINE:
0:00 - Introduction
1:49 - Biomass vs anthropomass
16:10 - Computational templates
36:25 - Biological hero organisms
47:25 - Engineering with bacteria
55:42 - Plant communication
1:09:05 - Albert Einstein letter
1:12:27 - Beauty
1:17:23 - Faith
1:27:09 - Flaws
1:46:58 - Extinction
1:58:05 - Alien life
2:01:55 - Music
2:03:22 - Movies
2:07:54 - Advice for young people
SOCIAL:
- Twitter: / lexfridman
- LinkedIn: / lexfridman
- Facebook: / lexfridman
- Instagram: / lexfridman
- Medium: / lexfridman
- Reddit: / lexfridman
- Support on Patreon: / lexfridman

[@lexfridman]

Here are the timestamps. Please check out our sponsors to support this podcast. Transcript: lexfridman.com/neri-oxman-transcript 0:00 - Introduction & sponsor mentions: - Babbel: babbel.com/lexpod and use code Lexpod to get 55% off - BetterHelp: betterhelp.com/lex to get 10% off - House of Macadamias: houseofmacadamias.com/lex and use code LEX to get 20% off first order - InsideTracker: insidetracker.com/lex to get 20% off - ExpressVPN: expressvpn.com/lexpod to get 3 months free 1:49 - Biomass vs anthropomass 16:10 - Computational templates 36:25 - Biological hero organisms 47:25 - Engineering with bacteria 55:42 - Plant communication 1:09:05 - Albert Einstein letter 1:12:27 - Beauty 1:17:23 - Faith 1:27:09 - Flaws 1:46:58 - Extinction 1:58:05 - Alien life 2:01:55 - Music 2:03:22 - Movies 2:07:54 - Advice for young people

[@karan_hiremath]

So glad you had Neri on! She’s always had some of the coolest research at Media Lab

[@colinstringer561]

Hey Lex, you're one of my favorite humans. Another one of my favorite humans is Joe Dispenza, will you invite him to your amazing podcast please? It would be awesome :).

[@EyyLmaoo]

Been waiting for this one

[@rockestee]

Update 3 days later: This has seriously got to be my favorite and MOST INSPIRING LEX INTERVIEW YET! For one thing, I have to keep pausing to ponder. Not science thoughts- but thoughts of philosophy and what could be a widely shared mindset by a majority of humans! I feel this Love coming from math and science and even am writing a book about how math is the universe’s love note to humanity. In my story It is a parental love, but you and Neri have more of a romantic take of the universe and the tools it lays at our feet and what we are supposed to be doing with these tools. It is positively a first crush , an intoxicating infatuation, and i am marveling at it and feel at once vindicated and inspired! I am gobsmacked by the clarity in this science messaging displayed by Neri Oxman. ( And Lex, you get it and in my humble opinion , always have.) It all leads back to love. But, Neri is trying her best to elevate us to a loving state ( vs violent, vs greedy state!) by thinking, thinking, and more thinking. I hear her, and i hear you too Lex. Many of us do. And , these ideas will spread…. But, to take a page from this interview, quite slowly maybe on a plant 🪴 time scale. I am learning so much. I have an hour left to still savor……( 🙏 thank you) Original comment : Yes! Been waiting ! She is one of my muses! Let’s go Neri and thank you Lex🙏 ( oh my gosh and i am sure an inspiration for many many and now- ( yay Lex!) many more.

[@imsweetleaf]

Molecular blending with Lex. Out of the park with this one. Thank you for the love, respect, and intelligence you show and share...

[@phenomagator]

Lex went above and beyond with the graphics during this one. Thank you for the hard work and brilliant conversations!

[@ignaciocalderondelabarca4326]

yeah but vids are courtesy of Oxman's lab

[@arthurabreu2962]

I bet Lex was paid a lot of money to do this lol. Don't get me wrong, Neri Oxman, is brilliant but she also happens to be the wife of Bill Ackman, a billionaire.

[@orion6764]

@@arthurabreu2962 I wonder if there is a team of editors that may contribute to this podcast.

[@yipperdeyip]

​@@orion6764 Obviously

[@theapexgreen2082]

He could of kept her on screen more often tbh

[@YesIndeed869]

There’s nothing I love more than hearing people talk about their passions and interests. Thank you both for this conversation

[@noam65]

I have been waiting 30 years for the concept of her company to come into being and fruition. Nature guided technology integration has the potential to save our biosphere. I'm so grateful.

[@MasonPayne]

I love how passionate Neri is about everything in this world. Her intelligence, passion, and love for life are obvious from the beginning of this interview all the way to the end. This was a fantastic conversation and was full of great principles to guide your life with. Keep up the great interviews and conversations with these wonderful people.

[@LucindaR-me9xs]

Dont confuse passion with blank bewilderment

[@Noneblue39]

when you dedicate your whole academic and industry career for this niche field ofc you would be

[@ztotheu2974]

She comes off as a leftist nut.

[@dg-ov4cf]

Lol, she sounds like a large language model herself with all that techno-primitivist psychobabble, like a modern, neoliberal Yoko Ono. Lots of interesting ideas and far reaching connections, little substance.

[@penultimateh766]

And the fact that she's gorgeous influences you not at all....

[@bcj]

The first 20 minutes of this interview already ignited 500 new hobbies I need to start now. So much cool stuff to learn in this interview

[@rainnbowunikorn]

take 1 sec, too see, that I also second this comment. 3 is company my friend, and so fourth.

[@user-pz8db3oh9y]

Is tuggin dudes one of them

[@bas.artistry]

This gives adhd vibes lol might need a picture of terry crews to scold you when you open your wallet 😂

[@joeyrivera2423]

Like what ?

[@nicoles3166]

do you people even have your own independent thoughts? jfc i hope you check your house for gas leaks

[@AdamGilbert]

Only an amazing scientist could say “I love my daughter more than evolution required” and it be so real and believable (and quietly funny)

[@salidut]

Thanks for clarifying that she's not single

[@heyokah]

And the fungi wept...

[@barrypoontang]

@@salidut she is dating brad pitt, you could say the ex was just her evolutionary local space

[@macleadg]

Lex is a bigot.

[@the1stmetalhead]

@@barrypoontang no way. I mean it’s understandable she’s gorgeous, smart and overall a great person.

[@amirascher]

This episode is one for the books. Neri and her work are so amazing and inspiring. It's a privilege to be able to listen to her for such a long, detailed conversation. The videos you inserted are incredible, you managed to created a whole new podcast experience. Thank you!

[@amirascher]

@@charlotte33072 You guys are so boring. Instead of spending your time and energy spreading lies and hatred in social media and in life itself, why don't you harness your talents to actually do some good for this world? People like Neri are taking us forward while you guys are taking us back. Forward is a better place to be in. Think about it.

[@amirascher]

@@charlotte33072 LOL. What does that even mean?

[@raykane2063]

She copied and pasted her way to the top

[@amirascher]

@@raykane2063 lol read up. She'd done things you still can't imagine are possible.

[@alejandracutter3760]

Out all his insightful and interesting podcasts, this one is by far the most moving, poetic, inspiring. A true delight.

[@officialcalvinwayman]

I just have to say…it is so freaking cool that these kinds of humans exist. Her mindset gives life. ❤

[@brucelee4president783]

People still starve to death but let's see if fungi can benefit from an iPhone. Gtfoh

[@officialcalvinwayman]

@@brucelee4president783 until people don’t starve, we can’t make progress anywhere else. Right? Sml

[@Wise__guy]

⁠@@officialcalvinwaymanyou can make progress in any field you want, but if you’re not curing illness or feeding the needy then don’t say “her mind set gives life”.

[@tomy34188]

@@Wise__guy Well if you want to take it that precise than you should consider that she works with living things, like E. Coli, silkworms etc. Those organisms are given food and a space to live in. So you are wrong. Her mindset doe is indeed give life. Just not necessarily to other humans. Even though her decision to become a mother did that as well, technically.

[@officialcalvinwayman]

@@Wise__guy your mindset is toxic. We shouldn’t be like crabs pulling others down. The world is a really fucking big place, and we need people of all kinds (not just doctors but also artists. Not just philanthropists but also scientists, explorers, baristas, and grocery clerks). We shouldn’t look at someone who’s dedicated in their respective field and say “oh but there are other problems in which you’re NOT solving.” Of course she’s not solving everything. Who the fuck is? But she’s top-tier in her way. And if we all learn how to be a little like her example, maybe we can make progress in other areas that are so needed

[@natashasales]

I've been waiting for this one! Being a Design student with engineering interest and with a background of 2 years of a major in Biology, it's pretty rare to find inspiration in people who was able to connect it all. She has become a huge influence and it's quite comforting to know that there's space for us with multiple and diverse interests in which we can link knowledge to come up with something new, something beautiful. Thank you both for being the two humans I look up the most in recent years 💖

[@OpenheartOneMind]

You're doing the planet a great service! Never lose that vision 🙏

[@testaccount3699]

She is a fraud. Even the students at MIT don't like her. She is not nice to the undegraduate women who work with her either. She is cosplaying as a scientist and engineer. If you know science and engineering? Nothing she says makes sense. It's double speak This is a shame because MIT has other beautiful female professors actually in engineering and science departments. She got her PhD because her godfather was her advisor. She isn't even well-liked in her home department where she got her PhD. They knew she was a nepo baby. And let's not forget the Epstein connection. Lex was probably encouraged to do this because Bill Ackman (her husband) runs in these tech circles. She also has her students ideate and do the work for her. She is not hands on doing the work. Look at her students' theses. Go to MIT and find out for yourself. You can ask around. This is a "never meet your heroes" situation.

[@vlarnach]

Completely agree, and I have a similar background! There is a place for everyone, let the ideas generate! 🔆

[@reinman1987cancer]

Based on your experience, do you think its possible to create some organism to produce some sort for fuel for clean energy?

[@rainking50]

Applied consilience is the future :) Are you experimenting with mixing disciplines in any projects?

[@mariavasilenko5080]

This conversation is a dance of poetry, math and art! The second derivative thinking tells me that I love to love listening to such inspiring and passionate thinkers and visionaries. Thank you, Lex and Neri, for the purely beautiful conversation!

[@MRTACPANS]

I beleive it all Starts With a Dot and a Dash MRTACPANS ALPHABET ART MATH SCIENCE.

[@Sir-.-]

And I love commenting on comments that I agree with to give them extra emphasis😅😊

[@raykane2063]

She copied and pasted her way to the top

[@maxsmith695]

Second derivative ? Her dissertation is atrocious and she messed up the Euclidean formula. My guess is grad students did it. Money, looks and connections, with the ability to talk about herself.

[@raykane2063]

Billionaire's wife is also on the Epstein list 💋😽👠👙👙

[@LeisureGoddess]

This podcast is the best ever. Anywhere. Anytime. Neri Oxman brings so much light to this increasingly dark and troubled sphere, where control and power rules. What an unexpected light. Thank you Lex.

[@theciakilledjfk5973]

🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡

[@idatong976]

Neri Oxman is totally awesome and inspirational, one of the most wonderful human beings. She speaks my language, sings my song, spends time watching the moon, and yes, talking to plants... I love her creative power and philosophy. Well done Lex! You're full of surprises, love you for that!! Thank you so much.

[@anywallsocket]

man's smitten 😂

[@johnpaparella7345]

Every facet of her personality is capturing, fascinating and beautiful.

[@TheInternet258]

No.

[@Sebbir]

@@TheInternet258sounds like no facet of your personality is capturing, fascinating and beautiful

[@kh9242]

If only most women were like this we would have a much better dating scene.

[@15multiventure51]

That's because the interview was, of course, all about her and Lex "handled" her gently. But when she gets angry ...

[@jannichi6431]

Earth "...there's Water and Love, what else do you need?"❤️ 🏞️💙👁️🌍🌎🌏

[@gary_michael_flanagan_wildlife]

Really amazing discussion. As a wildlife, bird photographer, I am always amazed when I’m out in nature observing all the complexities. I will also say her voice is so soothing, she could easily do a book reading to help soothe you to sleep. Very soothing voice

[@ichibanmacbean5625]

She is a great role model for me. I am a woman in STEM(31 non traditional I have other degrees, lowly) and she is so inspiring in so many ways that I can not even express the narrative. She maintains her given beauty and then goes beyond all physical standards to represent her mind. The 1:46:35 second derivative, or tertiary(or quaternary) makes all the sense for what she says. She is amazing and inspiring.

[@theciakilledjfk5973]

Would you care to revisit that statement?

[@eluby]

Beautiful comment

[@girlygal098]

Are all of you doing ecstasy or something? And wtf was that about maintaining her physical beauty? Be honest. The whole lot of you dropped X and then came to watch Neri. 🤣🤣

[@brianbatista8569]

Lex your one of the most important people of our generation for giving and shining light on these brilliant people and their different perspective. You also ask amazing introspective questions. Your the man bro

[@MtnMichael88]

No, you’re* the man Brian!

[@0000SYL]

but he should interview more diverse people, they are mostly Jewish

[@girlygal098]

Huh?

[@kadeeraziz]

Lex, thank you man for what you're doing for all knowledge seekers here. your impact is beyond measure.

[@created_just_for_you]

I hope Lex interviews more artists.

[@CodexPermutatio]

I second this message.

[@gledatelj1979]

What is the one knowledge you got out of this ?

[@philgagne4741]

@@gledatelj1979 We are passing from Terran to a Zerg species

[@created_just_for_you]

@@gledatelj1979 yeah I’ll be honest, she seems like a very kind woman… but 90% of what she was saying sounded a lot like mumbo-jumbo.

[@silfredd]

She’s such a gift to the world. What a lovely soul and amazing brain. 🙏🏼

[@woodywood5824]

She is amazing and that amazing brain is in an incredibly beautiful body.

[@raykane2063]

She copied and pasted her way to the top

[@theciakilledjfk5973]

🤡🤡🤡

[@dotaallstars8081]

This comment didn't age well 😂😂. She Ctrl c Ctrl v her way to the top

[@ivan2894]

wikipedia is a gift to the world

[@christopherszymanski5715]

We could use more people like her in the world. What a wonderfully positively conversation about deep, personal and surface level things. What a perfect example of what a composed family can do for a young child and the heights that child can reach with the right support. Two beautiful souls talking, this i will take with me.

[@raykane2063]

We need more people like her who copy and paste.

[@kst157]

Neri Oxman - her sheer brilliance, articulation, profound creativity & flair, vast knowledge, humility & empathy - are all very visible for all to see here; with the #1 podcaster in the world as host. What a joyous & thought provoking & world-beating / outstanding combination to appreciate & humbly learn from. Thanks to you both. :)

[@KingMinosxxvi]

what ?!

[@ehhalexx]

Exactly@@KingMinosxxvi

[@paranormalwithdave]

Lex your podcast relaxes me in a way that I cant describe, mentally - every guest is awesome. Thank you man

[@Wise__guy]

Even a war criminal like Netanyahu

[@Beans4feens]

She has such an amazing and upbeat thought process. It's refreshing to listen. Great podcast Lex!

[@raykane2063]

No thought process just copy and paste

[@ivan2894]

the process: 1- copy 2- paste

[@tessapriem2981]

The beginning and end of this episode was so beautiful. Made me teary. It was also lovely throughout!

[@MusicIsHealing519]

Lex you have changed my life with your insight and kind words and mindfulness. People like you and others I listen to like great philosophers or comedians I have learned so much. You might never see this but I appreciate you.

[@mathewbarta4804]

I absolutely adore the way she looks to the sky for thoughts. The Devine spark of consciousness is a roaring fire in Neri Oxman.

[@choosekindness613]

Are we not going to talk about how incredibly STUNNING this woman is?? And she's 47.. looks 10 years younger

[@griffinsdad9820]

Not the longest but potentially maybe the most beautiful advertisement I've seen in a bit. I wonder how much this interview grew their company.

[@DouglasGennetten]

There is NO ONE I'd rather have you interview. She has been a top 10 favorite humans of mine for years. Thank you Sir. Thank YOU Neri!

[@bsantos9]

I think Lex also wanted this interview badly.. she is great and speaks with so much passion!

[@DiamondHandz101]

I fully agree, could you list the other 9 please? You are on to something sir

[@DouglasGennetten]

@@DiamondHandz101 Here are three that impacted my life today: Ray Kurzweil, Peter Attia, Peter Diamandis

[@akahodgins]

I have never seen Lex so speechless. ❤❤❤. Amazing. I might watch this over and over like a new favorite song.🎉😮

[@ichibanmacbean5625]

"A flaw is an increased surface area" is one of the most beautiful, incredible, and scary thing I have ever heard. What an amazing mindset. Much love ❤

[@theothermebutwhoami]

Hard to convey with such definition given the totality of your work, but this may be one the best conversations you've given us. Speechless. Incredible. Beyond boundaries. Well done, Lex & Neri.

[@lnebres]

OMG. Who is this person and why hadn’t I encountered her before? Just 2 minutes in… and I’m utterly entranced, and hooked!

[@ThorPalsson]

Few humans are fearless enough to make their emotions shown as Lex His introductions are always a reflection of his soul° unfortunatly, Neri will never know how deeply pleasing her voice is A voice with the power to change the world

[@aaaa-eg4ck]

she knows

[@ThorPalsson]

Your future is bright Neri@@aaaa-eg4ck

[@dalanium98]

lex's expression when the conversation pulls away to the more-than-human always amuses me, the scrunched forehead from the raised eyebrows and eyes open. it's so reliable

[@evar1104]

What a wonderful interview! I didn't know Ms. Oxman's work and it's so inspiring, and necessary. I could listen to her explaining her worldview forever.

[@AWAG_FK]

Lex found his soul mate and she's already married. What an inspiring and interesting conversation. Thank you, Mr. Fridman.

[@clicheguevara5282]

I was just thinking something similar. Lol This one is definitely getting downloaded. I'm almost through my second listen in a row.

[@Tash303]

100%

[@josuecurianaiii3622]

and it happened to be Bill Ackman lol

[@kA89917]

Neri is also 47 btw, I didn’t realize that! I thought she was barely in her early 20s!! 🤯🤯🤯

[@psytek1978]

Word 😭 and she stressed the fact pretty clearly in the peak moment of quantum entanglement

[@rameenana]

Lex finds comfort in her voice. I can understand why.

[@kh9242]

For me it's the hair, that one lock of hair dayum.

[@rameenana]

@@kh9242 I get it. She is a very beautiful woman. What's amazing is she is intelligent and also seem to possess good moral values. Humans like that are rare. Wish I had the opportunity to engage in a conversation with her. I imagine it would be enlightening and beautiful.

[@bondi5000]

Lex’s expression at 24:28 is absolutely gold. It’s like he’s just been confronted by an overwhelmingly highly intellectual being with beauty to match. She, is a really fantastic speaker. 😊

[@SpirosPolikandriotis]

So glad I found Neri through you Lex. What a fantastic person. So inspirational

[@rockestee]

She is ONE OF MY FAVORITE ❤️ PROFESSORS saw a brilliant documentary on her years ago! omgosh i think about a project she did quite often for inspiration! Thanks Lex cant wait to see the latest here…..🎉

[@glavatazelva]

do you maybe know the name of the documentary to share it with us?

[@TheBippo5]

@@glavatazelva Could they be referencing Oxman’s documentary on youtube? Here is Neri Oxman and The Mediated Matter Group’s documentary (2020) Nature x Humanity on the official Oxman company’s youtube channel, she narrates wonderfully: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZOmgaWBptVni6ssi=zcA8wjPI6h5iR49X

[@anahitaazizi3445]

Abstract

[@iancompton6494]

I was so excited to see you interview her. She is one of the most inspiring people in the world!

[@rolandfisher]

Wow. Neri is mesmerizingly passionate, articulate, and inspiring. I was glued to the screen, listening without a break.

[@Livinghighandwise]

You forgot smoking hot ;)

[@raykane2063]

She copied and pasted her way to the top

[@toddg6548]

These are the Lex podcasts I love. Neri Oxman is a fascinating woman. Listening to her talk about what she envisions gives me hope for our species in that we are capable of producing someone such as her. Thanks Lex! More of this, please!

[@theciakilledjfk5973]

More plagiarist zionist Nazis? No thanks.

[@theciakilledjfk5973]

She didn't even do her own writing. She made it to the top because she looks beautiful and she's a connected Israeli citizen. This woman has literally participated in the genocide of children.

[@David-ww2sg]

I have listened to about an hour and already I think this might be one of my favourite episodes

[@annedijkhof]

Thank you so much Lex and Neri! Some very interesting and unique answers on this complex lifes questions. I could listen to another 2 hours without a problem so i hope we will see more of her:)

[@alexissrsa]

What a treat to watch, there are so many heart felt gifts in this interview. Thank you.

[@dporchia1]

The chemistry between these two minds is palpable. Neri is a powerhouse of heart and mind and the first person I’ve seen to actually render Lex awestruck, as we all are who listen to this woman’s brilliance, topped with beauty and charm! Simply killer on all levels. That being said my mind projects forward into the future of what Oxman is doing with biology technology and engineering. Yes, Neri declined partnering with a Japanese company to make glowing fabrics from genetically combining silk worms and spiders for the consumer fashion industry. However, at some point one of her smart Oxman team members might get enticed into selling out Oxmans higher values and principles and help genetically engineer Earths natural order of things into irreversible monstrosities.

[@casteretpollux]

Inevitable

[@orwellknew9112]

Science is always a sword with 2 edges. I am now too old to see where this world goes in the next 20: years, but I am very concerned for my children and grand children. They are unaware of what I see is already happening. And I can only hope that it fails.

[@raykane2063]

She copied and pasted her way to the top

[@theciakilledjfk5973]

🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡

[@lukethemuse9921]

I never thought I'd ever see such amazing foundations, masks, & light structures in biological/computational construction, through pure natural processes. Amazing. Love this episode.

[@johnlittle3430]

It's honestly disarming how brilliant and beautiful Oxman is. She won the lottery of life, and then some.

[@testaccount3699]

She is a fraud. Even the students at MIT don't like her. She is cosplaying as a scientist and engineer. If you know science and engineering? Nothing she says makes sense. It's double speak This is a shame because MIT has other beautiful female professors actually in engineering and science departments. She got her PhD because her godfather was her advisor. She isn't even well-liked in her home department where she got her PhD. They knew she was a nepo baby. And let's not forget the Epstein connection. Lex was probably encouraged to do this because Bill Ackman (her husband) runs in these tech circles.

[@Ms123kill]

pretty much my first thought was some human beings are just superior like it or not.

[@jicajacobsonkimbreaux]

I am also in love with this absolutely divine being and I'm pretty certain that she cannot simply be human. I do hope she manages to stay around for another few thousand years in order to bring these beautifully integrated ideas to fruition! Our collective planetary soul needs this ethical connection more than ever. ❤ More love and power to you, Neri! 🙏🏼

[@theciakilledjfk5973]

She's a plagiarist. You were completely deceived.

[@irel4ever]

Jesus, take a shower.

[@lyondhur]

This is by a long margin my favourite interview Lex. Neri is absolutely unique and as I designer myself, the synchronicity between both your brain waves sucked me in right off the start. Incredible work mate. Ka pai!

[@theciakilledjfk5973]

Plagiarism, by definition, is not unique. You were just fooled by a high-class hustler.

[@ivan2894]

you are a creep and she is a fraud

[@danielbigham]

Trying to build on Neri's thoughts about imperfection as creating a context for vulnerability: One of the great features of our universe is the realization that we are part of something greater, but we are also _invited_ to take steps in that direction -- to go from being more isolated, to more connected as part of that greater something. One of the most profound ways we do that is through relationship, especially intimate relationship. In that context of being integrated with another person as a new whole, if that is going to be done in the most effective way, there needs to be appropriate vulnerability -- to be able to see and understand not only the self, but the other, not only only the light but also the imperfection and shadow.

[@Maralm]

Well put

[@bella007adb]

Great comment.

[@Golgibaby]

Timestamp: 00:31:45 Templating. "Before you design with, you design for." A space for mutualism. Connection. Bro! Applicable across species!

[@normadenys8089]

This woman is so brilliant love her imagination applied to science , art, ethics … love the way she is , thank for interviewing her 👍I want to read her book

[@vct1040]

I’m so glad that Lex is back! He is such a great interviewer!

[@arjayjones8567]

This video is incredibly cathartic because I’ve spent years thinking about these exact things and someone is actually working on them. Amazing.

[@brianmonks6358]

The visuals are magnificent. Interview as art form

[@Meerkatx5]

Wow, what an amazing human! The intersection of so many disciplines coming together so effortlessly.

[@danielschmidinger8543]

Neri Oxman, I'm only half way into the podcast but you are amazing. Your enthusiasm and positivity are adorable ❤

[@TheCowthryn]

My favorite Lex interview to date. Heart and mind blown open throughout the whole conversation. Grateful.

[@chaoticembrace6984]

Wow ...my head hurts after this. She is spectacular, exceptionally Intellectual, and brutal under one dying sun's sky.

[@amirascher]

Favorite quotes: "I think a flaw, think about it physically, I’m thinking about a brick that’s flawed, but in a way I think of a flaw as an increased surface area... I think of it as accessing this additional dimension of surface area that could be used for good or bad to connect, to communicate, to collaborate." "My father taught me everything I know. My mom taught me everything I feel. My grandma taught me everything I insight." I find her incredible.

[@bettystansbury8396]

What a profound conversation! “Love is vulnerability” indeed it is, you open your soul and expose your heart, if it is touched, it will bleed.

[@michellelavelleOT343]

This is so mind blowing to me. I approve of Neri ❤ I can’t put into words at the moment - how opened and more curious my mind is now. I want to keep opening my mind to these subjects. Incredible ❤

[@leestringer]

"Did you ever think of the universe as a kind of machine that designs beautiful things?" Well, there's a great example sitting right across that desk from you Lex. Good Lord. How can someone be that smart and that attractive. The universe is not fair.

[@pigmilkmusicfarm]

Plus she's 47

[@sanja7744]

I love how, at 1:33:45, she talked about fire as the first technology and as one of the first things that brought humans together in a community. It emerged from vulnerability and the desire to stay warm. This also reminded me of the story of anthropologist Margaret Mead, who said that one of the first signs of civilization was a healed femur. That, too, came from a place of vulnerability that motivated one human to help another. I think it ties in nicely with Neri's idea that love is a driving force in the world. I also believe that, especially considering the femur story, love and care ensured the survival of a species. It all began with that particular human with the broken femur being saved, which may have eventually led to our entire species surviving as a result of the decision made by a human who helped, only to have that lesson passed down from generation to generation.

[@anthonyhowrard526]

We have lost so much not being at one with nature. Nothing more calming and primeval as sitting in the countryside with friends or family sat around a fire.

[@sherrysandor-kelly57]

More like the 'Axemakers Gift.'

[@andreadaerice]

What an incredible person! Thank you for introducing me to Neri. This is among the most fascinating discussions I"ve heard in my lifetime. Thank you

[@DavidWhispers]

Fun fact: My shop did some work for Neri years ago. She's a legend around here :) Thanks for an incredible ep guys 🙏🙏🔥🔥❤❤

[@created_just_for_you]

Lex PLEASE interview more artists!!!!

[@spectator59]

This interview was a very moving, almost overwhelming experience for me. So much so, that I had to take frequent breaks to absorb what was just said. Neri isn't just brilliant, she's insightful and inspiring in what is, for me, a new and incredible way. I hope she continues to be hugely joyous and successful.

[@theciakilledjfk5973]

🤡🤡🤡 It's so funny, reading through all the comments of people who were fooled by this Con artist. I hope you feel appropriately silly.

[@theciakilledjfk5973]

😆😆😆

[@samanthaflower3175]

Thank you for this incredible exchange. This woman and her depth of wisdom about humanity's inextricable relationship with the world around us has reinstated my faith in the art and science of technological progress.

[@eduardo_dito]

Beautiful interaction, and I love how they add images and videos to support the podcast

[@ChristopherRyans]

What a great way to spend our time listening to these amazing and interesting humans

[@140aj]

This was a truly beautiful episode lex. Thank you for this contribution to humanity.

[@AntoineThisdale]

Jumping in here because I listened to the podcast elsewhere. Lex, this has been one of the best podcast to date. You gotta bring this wonderful person back! This was too short!!

[@dawnmarie7024]

I Love Neri’s Vision... What a Beautiful Soul... All Nature wants is our Love & Respect.💓🥰💓

[@perspicaciouscritic]

I am *loving* the idea of interspersing cutaway shots throughout the video. (Is that a new addition?) It not only helps illustrate complex information, but makes the podcast more interesting and enlivens the talk. Good evolution, @lexfridman!

[@alexanderirizarry7722]

I think it's new, and I suspect he let Oxman edit the video. It really felt like they were advertising, or even recruiting (hiring). With that said, I'm buying, and I wish I had the credentials to apply!

[@Mike-nu5lb]

I really hope not its really annoying... it detracts from seeing how they react to each other, its just distracting.. I like to see the subtly of how they respond to each other... I think the editor just felt they needed to do something to justify themselves. The beauty of this podcast is being able to see the simple conversation, listen and see them respond to each other. I dont need to see 20 images of a fly from different angles, i get it, its a electron.. i just want to see them giggle together.

[@user-gq7yv4ig9p]

This conversation was so beautiful and profound I want to listen to it again.

[@itsMirro]

You know its going to be a banger when the first sentence is "Let's start with the universe".

[@yt-sh]

the quote at end segment is so good, thanks for this interview and snap of the quote

[@cyberpunkcomplex629]

have never seen a more magically creative connection between two, was more like seeing thoughts dance. I feel privileged to have viewed this vid lex Fridman as always.

[@williamjmccartan8879]

37 minutes and Neri uses a phrase that she likes to believe in her believe, which is another way of saying she has faith in her faith, which is beautiful to see.

[@UnderOneSky]

Probably the most relevant and important talk of our time. "The secret to one thing is through the lens of another." Pure GOLD.

[@mattyb808]

My goddess this women's beauty and brilliancy is out of this world! wow... just wow.

[@Adam-fz3pb]

Agreed

[@akahodgins]

Can’t wait to isolate myself and watch this. Lex, you are THE BEST ❤

[@15multiventure51]

Have you caught the new Covid? Get well soon.

[@V4D2]

What a joy..to listen to you both, in conversation. I'm very humbled..and also grateful to being alive, and feel you as my fellow humans. Thank you very much, to both.

[@explodingstardust]

This guest and the talk was so fascinating and mind-blowing I can't even imagine this world. So many creative thoughts in this conversation i don't know i am capable to even fully appreciate these ideas. Kudos Lex on bringing such an awesome guest.

[@raykane2063]

She copied and pasted her way to the top

[@skipdonahughuk]

I defy any who watches this interview not to have fallen totally in love with Neri Oxman. ☝️❤️♾️

[@onapermo]

In 2018, Ackman became engaged to Neri Oxman. In January 2019, Oxman and Ackman married at the Central Synagogue in Manhattan, and they had their first child together in spring 2019. In August 2019, Ackman wrote to MIT to discourage them from revealing the $125,000 donation that financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein made to Oxman's lab.

[@skipdonahughuk]

@@onapermo sadly alot of research and innovation has been financed by that disgusting man.

[@SirLucidThoughts]

Love the Lex Fridman podcast ! I started for AI and physics but he has expanded with surprising podcasts with human beings who have a story to tell.

[@sarannak]

What an amazingly inspiring conversation. This set me off into a thought storm. It’s refreshing to see such an established scientist who is immersed in the tangible but simultaneously appreciates the intangible aspects of wonder and beauty that exist.

[@dreamweavings6946]

What an inspiring heart felt creative conversation. Thoroughly enjoyed listening & learning- Thankyou 🙏🏼🌱💗

[@codyclifford3436]

Lex!!! Love all your work but this was by far my favorite episode yet. Great interview, great topic, excellent mix of the science and the poetry of this beautiful universe we live in.

[@waltkowalsky4344]

Great interview with Bellatrix Lestrange!

[@negationf6973]

I thought that too lol.

[@CYI3ERPUNK]

absolutely wonderful interview ; this woman is a treasure ; thank you Lex & Neri & team

[@1elisemarie]

So brilliant and fascinating. Great energy during interview between both.

[@alwayscodedfresh]

Wow she is amazing, such a beautiful mind and soul

[@KingsMom831]

Phenomenal podcast as usual!! Thank you so much for sharing this incredible conversation with all of us.❤

[@maviemac]

Lex, I’m a new subscriber but I have consumed much of your content. You are very interesting. Neri is brilliant and differentiates her passions to bring everything she does to an incalculable synergy, that which is LOVE. Please bring on more incredible women. ❤