Brian Resnick

Brian Resnick, a former editor at Vox, delves into the surprising effectiveness of placebos, even when patients know they're receiving sugar pills. He discusses how this challenges traditional medical views, sparking debates on ethical implications. The conversation highlights open-label placebos, revealing that transparency can enhance healing. Resnick also explores the role of patient-doctor trust and the power of expectations in health outcomes. With a mix of humor and insight, they question if placebos should become a staple in modern medicine.

Brian Resnick, a science journalist at National Geographic known for his insights on human perception, teams up with Charlie Warzel, a technology and AI writer at The Atlantic. They dive into the enduring legacy of the viral 'Dress' debate, exploring its impact on online culture and discourse. They discuss how virality has evolved, particularly with platforms like TikTok shaping our interactions. The conversation touches on the fragmentation of internet culture and what it means for collective experiences in our digital age.

Brian Resnick, a Vox science reporter, and Jessica Esquivel, a physicist at Fermilab, dive into the mysterious realm of dark matter and groundbreaking particle physics. They discuss the elusiveness of dark matter and the significant discoveries by Vera Rubin that challenge our understanding of the universe. Jessica explains the intriguing findings from the muon g-2 experiment, revealing unexpected behaviors that could reshape the standard model of physics. Together, they unpack the wonders of cosmic mysteries and the quest to comprehend our universe.

In this engaging discussion, volcanologist Robin George Andrews and science editor Brian Resnick explore the dramatic transformation of Venus from a water-rich paradise to a hellish landscape. They examine the catastrophic climate changes that lead to this shift and the alarming parallels to Earth's potential future. The conversation delves into the role of plate tectonics and carbon emissions, as well as the intriguing possibility of life existing in Venus' acidic clouds, sparking curiosity about extraterrestrial life and planetary science.

Scientists discuss how our sense of smell can change color perception, challenging the idea of humans having a poor sense of smell. Bee preferences and foraging choices reveal important insights for supporting bee colonies. Science evokes awe and contributes to well-being, with a positive correlation between spirituality of science and psychological well-being.

Brian Resnick, a senior science reporter and expert on space exploration, dives into the fascinating realm of the James Webb Space Telescope. He discusses how observing distant light allows us to witness ancient cosmic events, akin to an archaeological dig of the universe's history. Resnick highlights the transformative journey from the Big Bang to the emergence of starlight and explores the future of astronomy with innovative telescope designs. He emphasizes our deep connection to the universe, reminding us that we are made of stardust.

Brian Resnick, a knowledgeable reporter from Vox, dives deep into the groundbreaking capabilities of the James Webb Space Telescope. He discusses the telescope's superior design compared to Hubble and its potential to unlock cosmic mysteries. The conversation covers the exploration of exoplanets, including K2-141b, and the tantalizing search for signs of extraterrestrial life. Resnick also highlights how this ambitious mission could capture the universe's first light, offering fresh insights into the origins of time and life beyond Earth.

Brian Resnick, a science reporter with a knack for engaging storytelling, joins the discussion about the quirky yet profound topic of lunar waste. They reveal how human fecal matter left on the moon might unlock secrets about life's origins and resilience in the cosmos. The conversation takes a humorous turn as they connect these remnants to cultural creation myths, showcasing how societies from the Fon to the Aztecs revered excrement in their narratives. This blend of biology and mythology challenges conventional views and keeps listeners entertained.

Brian Resnick, a science reporter at Vox, and Melanie West, a health reporter for The Wall Street Journal, dive into the realities of COVID-19 breakthrough infections. They discuss the recent outbreak among vaccinated New York Yankees, emphasizing that vaccines are effective despite some cases. The conversation shifts to the importance of remaining calm and informed as cities like New York begin to reopen, highlighting community transmission risks and personal safety evaluations. They also reflect on the psychological impact of the pandemic on urban life.

Brian Resnick, a senior science reporter at Vox.com, delves into the evolving landscape of the coronavirus. He explains how recent mutations have led to a more contagious variant emerging from the UK. The conversation emphasizes the crucial need for heightened vigilance and improved surveillance measures. Resnick discusses vaccine efficacy against these new strains, particularly for Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech, and tackles the complex challenges of vaccine distribution and public hesitancy, shining light on the urgency of proactive measures to safeguard public health.