Lindsey Fitzharris

Author Lindsey Fitzharris explains the history of plastic surgery. Professor Simon Baron Cohen discusses the science of evil and empathy. Writer Jody Rosen explores the fascinating history of bicycles. The podcast touches on the decline of fireflies and the impact of bicycles as a mode of transport.

Lindsey Fitzharris, a medical historian and author, uncovers the gruesome yet fascinating history of Victorian surgery. She details the chaotic origins of amputation tools and the pivotal role of Joseph Lister in advancing hygiene practices. With dark humor, she shares stories of surgical madness, including anesthesia-less mastectomies and the bizarre beliefs of the era. Fitzharris also examines the evolution of medical ethics, the legacy of vaccines, and the strange cultural impact of syphilis, all while illustrating the intersection of medicine and storytelling.