Christina Kim, a reporter and producer on the Throughline team, teams up with Rachel Herz, a neuroscientist and author specializing in the psychology of smell. Together, they explore the profound connection between scent and memory, showing how aromas evoke powerful personal narratives. They share fascinating insights on how smells shape identity and recall, discuss the impact of losing one’s sense of smell during COVID, and highlight historical significance by connecting olfactory experiences to cultural narratives and trauma.

In this engaging discussion, producers Lawrence Wu, Anya Steinberg, and Christina Kim take listeners behind the curtain of their creative process. They explore the origins of the podcast and the challenges faced in delivering compelling narratives. The trio discusses the importance of sound design and music, as well as the impact of storytelling in addressing contemporary issues like environmental justice and political history. Personal anecdotes and the collaborative spirit at NPR add depth to their reflections, making this a must-listen for aspiring podcasters.