Jad Abumrad, the host and creator of Radiolab, which reaches roughly two million people per month, makes his debut at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex at Cal State LA with his new program, Gut Churn. The evening begins with two simple questions: What does it mean to “innovate?” How does it feel to make something new in the world? On one level, it’s the personal story of how Abumrad invented a new aesthetic. On another, it is a clinic in the art of storytelling. And on a more profound level, the journey is the result of a three-year investigation into the science, philosophy, and art of uncertainty, which all began with the two words that are the title of this presentation: gut churn. What use do negative feelings have during the creative process?  Do those feelings get in the way, or do they propel us forward?

Abumrad has been called a “master of the radio craft” for his unique ability to combine cutting edge sound-design, cinematic storytelling, and a personal approach to explaining complex topics, from the stochasticity of tumor cells to the mathematics of morality.

Jad Abumrad studied creative writing and music composition at Oberlin College in Ohio. He composes much of the music for Radiolab, and in the past has composed music for film, theater, and dance. In 2011, Radiolab received a Peabody Award, the highest honor in broadcasting, and Jad received the prestigious MacArthur “Genius” Fellowship.

General: $30, $40, $50
Available via Ticketmaster or the Luckman Box Office.

Cal State L.A. students: $20
Other students: $25
(in-person only at the Luckman Box Office)