We’re living in an era in which there are more ways than ever to communicate with each other, by text, phone, Internet and countless social media platforms. Yet, one of the biggest problems facing our world is a lack of meaningful communication. All forms of communication, from social to political to family to relationships just aren’t what they should be.

You’ll never believe who is fascinated, maybe even obsessed, with this topic — legendary actor Alan Alda. In some ways it makes sense, though. Who would understand the power of clear communication better than an Oscar nominee and seven-time Emmy Award winner.

He has created the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science at Stony Brook University and written a book called If I Understand You, Would I Have This Look On My Face? My Adventures in the Art and Science of Relating and Communicating. 

He’s also tapped into a modern form of communicating inspired by one of the oldest media traditions: he’s now hosting a podcast called Clear and Vivid with Alan Alda.

Alan talks to Growing Bolder about the inspiration for his new passion and shares what it’s like to reinvent himself at the age of 82. Plus, he reflects on his career, from his iconic role as Hawkeye in M*A*S*H* through memorable roles in major films and TV shows since.