Welcome back to The Deep Dive where we surprise and intrigue you with a brand-new timely topic explored every Tuesday.

This week we’re exploring what it means to be human. Here are some fascinating and unexpected stories about where we all came from and where we are going.

Yours in media,
Elizabeth He, Visual Communications Editor

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The Science of Being Human

NOVA: Human (54 min doc)

Follow the epic story of Homo sapiens as they outlast other human species and spread across the globe. Watch this new five-part series.

Check out this behind-the-scenes interview with host and paleoanthropologist Ella Al-Shamahi.

What Lucy Taught Us About Ourselves (2 min clip)

The discovery of the Lucy skeleton changed scientists’ understanding of human evolution. See what they learned and where she got her name.

Your DNA’s Codes Are (Probably) from Outer Space (17 min clip)

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Did you know that many of us have up to 4% Neanderthal DNA? And 100% of your DNA may come from outer space? Learn how this off-world coding may have happened.

Are We All Related? (6 min clip)

Basic math tells us that all humans share ancestors, but you’ll be amazed at how recently those shared ancestors lived. Are you my distant cousin?

Recipe of the Week

Shrimp with Orzo (recipe)

To be a healthy human, try eating the Mediterranean diet. This quick and easy take on a Greek classic offers a fresh dish with big flavor. Make this yummy weeknight dinner.

Book of the Week

Sapiens Author Yuval Noah Harari (2 min clip)

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Harari’s book, Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind, was an unexpected blockbuster. He talks to Christiane Amanpour about turning it into a graphic novel. Learn about this groundbreaking project.

What Makes Us Human

Amanda Shea on Resilience (4 min clip)

To be human is to be resilient. Artist Amanda Shea explores this theme through spoken word and song.

Rick Steves’ Europe: “Art of Prehistoric Europe” (25 min episode)

Traverse the world of mighty megaliths, torchlit cave paintings, and more. See great art made by humans.

Stories from the Stage: “Living Soul” (26 min episode)

Three storytellers navigate the depths of human emotion through journeys of discovering peace and purpose. Here are three interpretations of “living soul.”

Grounding into Your Body

Yndi Yoga (series)

Travel through atmospheric environments and custom soundscapes with Yndi Yoga. Follow along and nourish your soul.

Jack Wolfe Performs “I’m Alive” (4 min clip)

You’re alive. I’m alive. We’re alive. Let’s celebrate being alive through song.

Off Topic

  1. Can these 20-somethings keep up with Julia Child’s 30-minute meal prep? Watch them try.
  2. What secrets does this piggie hold? ANTIQUES ROADSHOW reveals the answer.
  3. At the Big E fair in Springfield, Jim came, he saw, he ate. A lot. Do not attempt to eat like this.