This American Life 801: Must Be Rats on the Brain
42 snips
Dec 28, 2025 
Elna Baker, a producer, chats with Todd Sklar, a writer who formed a surprising bond with his pet rats during the pandemic, exploring how these fluffy friends complicated his dating life. Ike Sriskandarajah dives into the unintended consequences of New York City’s switch to plastic garbage bags, which fueled a rat population explosion. The episode hilariously contrasts the love for rats with urban challenges, showcasing a mix of personal anecdotes and insightful investigations into human-rat relationships.
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Rats in Harlem
- Darneice Foster, a Harlem resident, describes a new surge in rats since the pandemic.
- Her landlord's neglect and harassment contribute to the problem, turning rats into pawns in a real estate battle.
Rat Guy Dilemma
- Todd Sklar, an L.A. writer, faces a dilemma: his 12 pet rats hinder his dating life.
- He's torn between love and his unusual pandemic hobby, unsure whether to abandon his rodent companions or accept lonely rat guy status.
Rat Rescue
- Todd's rat obsession began during the pandemic lockdown when he rescued an injured rat.
- The Humane Society's refusal to help led him to a rat rescue, initiating his journey into rat ownership.