

Rachel Carlson
Host of Short Wave. Science journalist at NPR.
Top 5 podcasts with Rachel Carlson
Ranked by the Snipd community

78 snips
Nov 24, 2024 • 17min
The Science of Disagreeing Well
Rachel Carlson, producer of the Short Wave podcast, shares her expertise on the neuroscience of disagreement. She discusses how playful debates can quickly escalate into emotional conflicts and provides insights into the physiological responses our bodies experience during these moments. Carlson highlights the importance of empathy and mutual respect in navigating challenging conversations, especially during divisive times. Listeners gain practical strategies to foster understanding and maintain connections, despite differing opinions.

46 snips
Aug 3, 2025 • 26min
Can Psychedelic Therapy Go Mainstream?
Rachel Carlson, a producer for NPR's science podcast Shortwave, delves into the fascinating world of psychedelic therapy. She shares insights on the promising potential of psychedelics for treating PTSD and depression, while navigating the complex legal landscape that hinders their prescription. The discussion highlights ketamine's unique role and the growing trend of at-home therapies, emphasizing the fine balance between hope and caution in this evolving field. Listeners will find the blend of science and personal experience truly eye-opening.

31 snips
Dec 8, 2023 • 15min
Feeling Lonely? Your Brain May Process The World Differently
Rachel Carlson, producer at NPR, dives into the loneliness epidemic affecting many, especially during the holidays. She discusses the profound emotional and physical consequences of chronic loneliness, linking it to serious health risks. Carlson explains how loneliness can alter brain processing, influencing perceptions of social cues. Topics also include the significance of meaningful connections over mere acquaintances and the importance of quality relationships in combating feelings of isolation.

23 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 13min
Could Psychedelics Become Tripless?
Rachel Carlson, a dedicated producer and reporter on psychedelic science, dives into the fascinating world of non-hallucinogenic alternatives to traditional psychedelics. She discusses groundbreaking research on modifying these compounds to retain their therapeutic benefits while eliminating hallucinatory experiences. The conversation explores innovative treatments, such as 'psychoplastogens' and the promising drug DLX1 aimed at tackling conditions like depression. Carlson also highlights the ongoing debates on the necessity of trips in psychedelic therapy, offering a glimpse into the future of mental health treatment.

16 snips
Apr 7, 2025 • 12min
Why The Trip Complicates Psychedelic Research
Rachel Carlson, a producer with a keen interest in psychedelic science, discusses the intriguing world of psychedelics and their potential therapeutic benefits. She highlights the challenges researchers face in distinguishing the effects of psychedelics from the personal transformations experienced during trips. The conversation reveals how environmental factors play a crucial role in these studies and underscores the need to understand the mechanisms at play—vital for guiding the future direction of research into these fascinating substances.