Renowned science writer Carl Zimmer, prominent psychologist Erik Turkheimer, and expert in statistical genomics Andrea Ganna are among the guests on this fascinating podcast. They explore the debate around being born with a sexual orientation and its impact on LGBTQ+ rights. They discuss the historical context and scientific understanding of homosexuality, the influence of genetics, environment, and culture on sexual orientation, and the fluidity of sexuality over time. The podcast also delves into the use of the "born this way" narrative in court cases and its effect on public opinion. A thought-provoking and insightful discussion!

Butts take the spotlight in this episode as hosts delve into terminology, body shame, and evolutionary psychology myths. They explore societal perceptions, workplace struggles, and the fascination with bodies, all while providing no-nonsense advice and encouraging subscriptions for bonus content.

Heather Radke discusses the cultural history of women's butts, controversial statues depicting fetal development, the racial politics of a dataset, and the journey of two statues from the American Museum of Natural History to the Cleveland Health Museum. The podcast also explores the significance of butt shape and size in historical context and the value of unearthing the beauty of mundane topics.

Why do we have a butt? Well, it’s not just for the convenience of a portable seat cushion. This week, we have a conversation with our Contributing Editor Heather Radke, who has spent the last several years going deep on one of our most noticeable surface features. She’s been working on a book called Butts, a Backstory and in this episode, she tells us about a fascinating history she uncovered that takes us from a eugenicist’s attempt in the late 1930s to concretize the most average human, to the rise of the garment industry, and the pain and shame we often feel today when we go looking for a pair of pants that actually fit. Special thanks to Alexandra Primiani and Jordan Rodman Episode Credits:Reported by Heather RadkeProduced by Matt KieltyOriginal music and sound design contributed by Matt Kielty and Jeremy BloomMixing by Jeremy BloomFact-checking by Emily Krieger Citations:You can Pre-order Heather’s book “Butts: A Backstory” here (https://zpr.io/QVFVLTTW9vpN) Our newsletter comes out every Wednesday. It includes short essays, recommendations, and details about other ways to interact with the show. Sign up (https://radiolab.org/newsletter)! Radiolab is supported by listeners like you. Support Radiolab by becoming a member of The Lab (https://members.radiolab.org/) today. Follow our show on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @radiolab, and share your thoughts with us by emailing radiolab@wnyc.org.   Leadership support for Radiolab’s science programming is provided by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Science Sandbox, a Simons Foundation Initiative, and the John Templeton Foundation. Foundational support for Radiolab was provided by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.

Heather Radke, author of "Butts: A Backstory," delves into our cultural obsession with butt aesthetics, exploring shifting beauty standards and personal experiences. Marjorie Ingall, co-author of "Sorry, Sorry, Sorry: The Case for Good Apologies," discusses the anatomy of effective apologies, highlighting common pitfalls and how sincere communication can mend relationships. Together, they navigate societal pressures on body image and the psychological intricacies of saying sorry.