The Big Bang. Supernovae. Evolution. What do they have to do with real, everyday life? My guest, author Jennifer Morgan, has spent decades helping people appreciate how our universe works, how we got here, and why that matters. In this first of two conversations, we talk about how knowing this evolutionary story can guide us, as stories have always guided humans. (Even better: This one doesn't require "belief"; it has data!)

Jennifer directs the Deep Time Journey Network, where people worldwide explore how this science-based "new story" can inspire creativity, awe, connection, and better ways to live. She worked with the late, great cultural historian Thomas Berry and many Princeton University scientists to author a beautifully illustrated trilogy of kids' books about the story of our universe.

I hope you'll enjoy this chat with Jennifer--I know I did!Music on this episode is "Stars Are Out" by Podington Bear, from the album Daydream. Used via a Creative Commons license. Theme song for The Big Chew Podcast is "She Say Go" by the Birdinumnums.