222: Rob Marciano KNOWS Energy, Infrastructure, Information, Science, Technology & Optimism

CBS News Senior Meteorologist Rob Marciano joins Randall Kenneth Jones for an eye-opening conversation about the technologies shaping our future—and why we should feel hopeful about them.  Drawing from his new National Geographic book, "The Next Big Thing: Innovations for a Better, Smarter, Stronger Tomorrow" (co-authored with James Trefil), Marciano explores everything from artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and renewable energy to 3D printing, robotics, and the future of infrastructure. With warmth, humor, and genuine curiosity, Jones serves as the perfect guide for science devotees and listeners who don't consider themselves "science people," often asking the questions many of us are afraid to ask. Together, they discuss why understanding technology can reduce fear, how innovation is addressing some of humanity's biggest challenges, and why the future may be far brighter than today's headlines suggest. Along the way, Marciano shares stories from his encounters with cutting-edge technologies—including a memorable conversation with a humanoid robot—and explains how researching this book transformed him from a skeptic into an optimist. The result is a fascinating, accessible, and surprisingly inspiring conversation about the power of human ingenuity, scientific discovery, and the importance of staying curious. ON THE KNOWS with Randall Kenneth Jones features engaging conversations with influential authors, artists, innovators, leaders, and changemakers. Praised by consumer advocate and activist Erin Brockovich as "the best podcast and host ever," the show explores what remarkable people know—and how their experiences, insights, and wisdom can help us live richer, more informed, and more purposeful lives. Hosted by author, speaker and "storyteller" Randall Kenneth Jones, ON THE KNOWS is known for its warmth, humor, curiosity, and meaningful human connection. Ironically, the podcast announcer is Susan Bennett, the original voice of Siri and arguably the O.G. of AI, whose iconic voice welcomes listeners to each episode. d Through thoughtful conversations that inform, inspire, and entertain, Jones uncovers the stories, lessons, and perspectives that help people flourish in an increasingly complex world. Best Quotes: "The more I wrote, the more I understood about a lot of these technologies I didn't understand before, the less scared I am for the future and the more excited I am for the future." — Rob Marciano "I know that the future is bright. I know that the men and women and brilliant minds that are working on the next innovations and the next big thing are going to take us to where we need to go." — Rob Marciano "We have a responsibility to understand what is happening, and your book really is going to a lot of people." — Randall Kenneth Jones: "In all the noise and all the pessimism and all the negativity out there, there is so much not just to be grateful for, but to be optimistic for." — Rob Marciano Rob Marciano: www.instagram.com/robertmarciano Randall Kenneth Jones: www.RandallKennethJones.com  Susan Bennett: www.SusanCBennett.com  Kevin Randall Jones: www.KevinRandallJones.com