Podcast Title: Nonprofit Nation with Julia Campbell
Episode: Science As Storytelling with Dr. Vivian Ming
Release Date: June 18, 2025
Introduction
In this enlightening episode of Nonprofit Nation, host Julia Campbell engages in a deep and thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Vivian Ming, a renowned theoretical neuroscientist, inventor, and founder of the Human Trust. The discussion centers around the profound intersection of science and storytelling, exploring how narratives can transform complex scientific concepts into meaningful stories that inspire and mobilize communities for nonprofit causes.
Dr. Vivian Ming’s Unique Journey and Perspective
Timestamp [02:51]: Dr. Vivian Ming describes herself as a "delusional inventor and mad scientist with a mission." She shares her unconventional path from academia to founding multiple startups and philanthropic projects. Her work primarily focuses on leveraging AI, neuroscience, and epigenetics to address seemingly impossible problems, such as detecting postpartum depression and enhancing global economic inclusion.
Quote:
"What drives my work isn't just data. It's a deep belief in human capacity, creativity, and meaning." – Dr. Vivian Ming [02:51]
Science as Storytelling
The core theme of the episode revolves around the idea that science is fundamentally a story we tell ourselves about the world. Dr. Ming elaborates on how scientists construct narratives to make sense of complex data and how these stories can be powerful tools for leadership and impact in the nonprofit sector.
Timestamp [08:50]:
Dr. Ming explains, "The story is never going to be true. The world is just too complicated to know what the real story is." She emphasizes that while scientific narratives may not capture complete truths, they play a crucial role in advancing understanding and inspiring action.
The Power of Personal Stories in Nonprofits
Julia Campbell and Dr. Ming discuss the importance of personal storytelling in nonprofit communications. Dr. Ming shares her personal experience of developing an AI tool to manage her son's type 1 diabetes and autism, highlighting how personal narratives can bridge the gap between complex scientific solutions and audience empathy.
Timestamp [15:39]:
"Being able to tell the story explains to your audience how they should understand that problem...to evoke in them the same kind of understanding that I hold." – Dr. Vivian Ming [15:39]
Dr. Ming underscores that beyond presenting data and solutions, nonprofits must weave in the "why" behind their missions to create a deeper connection with their audience.
Addressing Intractable Problems through Innovation
Dr. Ming provides insights into tackling problems often deemed intractable by leveraging innovative approaches and interdisciplinary collaborations. She recounts her experience working with the UN on a project to reunite orphaned refugees with their families, despite facing financial and operational challenges.
Timestamp [20:56]:
"If someone comes to me with a problem, it's because nothing else worked. My starting assumption on any problem I work on is we must not understand this problem." – Dr. Vivian Ming [20:56]
Through her philanthropic lab, the Human Trust, Dr. Ming commits to solving unique and underserved issues by applying her expertise in neuroscience and AI, often providing solutions pro bono to ensure accessibility and impact.
“How to Robot Proof Your Kids” – Preparing for an AI-Driven Future
One of the highlights of the episode is the discussion about Dr. Ming’s upcoming book, “How to Robot Proof Your Kids.” The book explores the evolving landscape where AI excels at solving well-posed problems, urging parents and educators to focus on developing uniquely human skills in children.
Timestamp [29:43]:
"The fundamental thesis here is AI knows everything but understands nothing... what we need is our ability to explore the unknown." – Dr. Vivian Ming [29:43]
Dr. Ming argues that as AI takes over routine and technical tasks, the key to future-proofing the next generation lies in cultivating creativity, resilience, and the capacity to tackle ill-posed problems—challenges that machines cannot easily address.
Timestamp [33:32]:
"Make them all the more human. Don't compete with machines by doubling down on things machines are better at. Lean into making an amazing human being." – Dr. Vivian Ming [33:32]
She emphasizes the importance of nurturing children's unique voices and their ability to engage with the unknown, positioning human creativity and emotional intelligence as invaluable assets in an AI-dominated world.
Connecting with Dr. Vivian Ming
As the conversation concludes, Dr. Ming shares ways for listeners to engage with her work and stay updated on her insights.
Timestamp [35:27]:
"The easiest place to visit would be to go to socos.org... You can sign up for the newsletter, which is entirely free, or if you are truly delusional, then you can actually subscribe and pay for a free newsletter. In exchange, I'll give you a copy of the book once it's published later this year." – Dr. Vivian Ming [35:27]
Listeners are encouraged to visit socos.org to learn more about her projects and access her forthcoming publications.
Conclusion
This episode of Nonprofit Nation masterfully intertwines the realms of science and storytelling, demonstrating how personal narratives and scientific insights can collaboratively drive meaningful change within the nonprofit sector. Dr. Vivian Ming's innovative approach serves as an inspirational model for nonprofit leaders seeking to address complex challenges with creativity and empathy.
Final Quote:
"If there's an opportunity to tell your story and you're not taking it, then you've missed the opportunity to explain yourself to yourself. What a tragedy." – Dr. Vivian Ming [36:34]
Connect with Dr. Vivian Ming:
- Website: socos.org
- Upcoming Book: How to Robot Proof Your Kids
Follow Julia Campbell:
- Instagram: @JuliaCampbell77
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the conversation between Julia Campbell and Dr. Vivian Ming, highlighting key discussions, insights, and actionable conclusions for nonprofit professionals aiming to harness the power of storytelling and scientific innovation.