Josh Fischman

In this discussion, Josh Fischman, a senior editor at Scientific American, sheds light on the quirky phenomenon of earworms—the songs that refuse to leave your brain. He reveals the psychological triggers behind why certain melodies cling to us. Listeners share their unforgettable earworms while Fischman explains the key traits of pop songs that make them so catchy. Lastly, he offers some amusing strategies to combat these musical intruders, like chewing gum and tuning into different tunes!

In this discussion, Josh Fischman, senior editor at Scientific American with expertise in the psychology of earworms, reveals the science behind why certain songs loop endlessly in our minds. He explains how specific traits, like a tempo around 124 beats per minute, make some tunes more sticky than others. The conversation includes strategies to combat these pesky earworms and shares hilarious listener stories about their most unforgettable songs. Get ready to uncover the psychology behind those catchy melodies!