Gabriel Spitzer

Gabriel Spitzer, a former NPR Science Desk reporter, joins researcher Mercedes Sheen to dive into the fascinating world of disputed memories among siblings. They explore how siblings, especially identical twins, can argue over shared memories, like a first kiss, revealing the intricacies of memory ownership. The discussion delves into how our recollections often serve personal narratives and identity, raising questions about memory reliability and the broader implications for eyewitness accounts. Tune in for an insightful look at the tangled nature of memory!

Gabriel Spitzer, a Senior Editor at NPR with a focus on science journalism, dives deep into the eerie realm of prions—self-replicating proteins that can trigger devastating diseases. He reveals how these biological anomalies don't contain genes yet replicate, challenging foundational concepts of molecular biology. Spitzer recounts the history of kuru, a deadly brain disease that impacted the Fore people of New Guinea, shedding light on the cultural practices that facilitated its spread. He articulates the existential dread these infectious agents evoke and the revolutionary shift they represent in our understanding of health.

Gabriel Spitzer, a Senior Editor at NPR based in Seattle, dives into the fascinating world of volcanoes. He discusses how these geological giants 'talk' to us through seismic sounds, crucial for predicting eruptions. The conversation highlights the tug-of-war between volcanologists and conservationists as they navigate protected lands. Spitzer also shares insights on the hidden dangers of Glacier Peak and the challenges of monitoring its activity while maintaining wilderness conservation efforts. It's a captivating exploration of nature's unpredictable forces.