How To Do Everything Earthquakes, Dentists, and How To Talk To Your Dog
Oct 15, 2025
Discover how trained rats are saving lives in earthquake rescues with their impressive skills. Hear about a clever dental dilemma where hosts help a listener struggling to communicate at the dentist. Plus, meet Stella, the dog who speaks using a button board, and learn how the hosts tested this device during a dental appointment! The fun escalates as they turn an out-of-office message into a surprise birthday celebration, complete with heartfelt greetings and a hidden treasure within the episode. It's a whirlwind of creativity and humor!
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Rats As Search And Rescue Sensors
- APOPO trains rats to enter tight rubble and signal when they find survivors using a micro switch on their vests.
- The rats carry cameras, two-way comms, GPS, and can map internal debris where other tech can't reach.
Design For Human Experience In Rescue
- APOPO considers the human psychological reaction to rats and uses bright colors, lights, and recorded messages to minimize shock.
- Public awareness and clear rescue markings help survivors recognize rescue animals rather than hallucinations.
Listener's Dental Dilemma
- Dennis wrote asking how to respond when a dentist talks with hands in your mouth during procedures like a root canal.
- Mike and Ian decided to try a talking-button board to answer for the patient during treatment.
