Something You Should Know

In this engaging discussion, Karyn Light-Gibson, an educator and author, reveals how insects are essential to our ecosystem, acting as the backbone of food production. Meanwhile, Keith Houston, author of a book on emoji history, dives into the evolution of these digital icons, explaining how their meanings can change based on context and usage. Together, they explore the fascinating interconnectedness of bugs and modern communication, highlighting how both shape our world in unexpected ways.

Stefan Koelsch, a renowned neuroscientist and music psychologist, discusses the profound healing power of music. He explains how music can alleviate conditions like depression and Parkinson's disease, enhancing mental wellness. Matt Richtel, a Pulitzer Prize-winning health reporter, delves into the challenges of adolescence, exploring the brain changes that drive risky behaviors. Together, they emphasize the importance of music in regulating emotions during these tumultuous years and highlight the critical need for support as teens navigate their identities.

Alden Wicker, an award-winning journalist and author of 'To Die For', dives into the hidden dangers of toxic chemicals in clothing and their impact on health. She highlights how common treatments in fashion could be making us sick. Joining her is Roger Kreuz, a psychology professor and author of 'Failure to Communicate', who explores the nuances of miscommunication in our digital age. They discuss how tone and context can alter messages and even lead to misunderstandings in everyday conversations.

Anna Machin, an evolutionary anthropologist at Oxford University, unpacks the idea that love is as vital as food or water for our well-being. She details how love fosters health and longevity, while also examining the significance of friendships in our lives. Caitlin Doughty, a refreshing mortician and author, brings a humorous touch to the topic of death, discussing embalming, post-mortem processes, and even what happens if someone dies on an airplane. Together, they challenge societal taboos and advocate for a more open conversation about love and mortality.

Join Thomas Weber, former executive editor of TIME and author of 'Cloud Warriors,' as he shares fascinating insights on the evolution of weather forecasting. He explains how communication improves public safety amid extreme weather events. Meanwhile, Herman Pontzer, a professor at Duke University and author of 'Adaptable,' delves into the remarkable ways our bodies are shaped by our environments, from height to immune responses. Their engaging conversation highlights the intersection of climate challenges and human adaptability.

In this engaging discussion, Caleb Warren, an assistant professor specializing in humor research, delves into the science behind what makes things funny, introducing the concept of 'benign violations.' Meanwhile, Peter Gleick, a prominent water expert, addresses pressing water issues, challenging misconceptions about bottled versus tap water and the impact of climate change on water resources. The conversation highlights the societal importance of humor and the critical need for sustainable water management in an era of scarcity.

In this discussion, Pat Flynn, a serial entrepreneur and author of 'Lean Learning,' shares insights on mastering the art of 'lean learning' to navigate the overwhelming information overload in our lives. He advocates focusing on essential knowledge to achieve goals efficiently. Daryl Fairweather, chief economist at Redfin, explains how economic principles, like game theory and opportunity costs, can guide everyday decision-making. Together, they explore the intricate connections between learning, relationships, and personal success.

In this enlightening discussion, Richard Wiseman, a UK psychology professor and author, shares rapid strategies for personal transformation and tackling psychological issues. Adam Zeman, an honorary fellow at the University of Edinburgh and an expert on imagination, reveals how our daydreams and mind-wandering can consume half our day. They delve into the science behind brain freeze, the importance of gratitude over material goods for happiness, and the complex nature of imagination that shapes our lives and creativity.

In this engaging discussion, Erin McCarthy, VP/Editor-in-Chief of MentalFloss.com, uncovers the quirky origins of everyday expressions, revealing how phrases like 'cut to the chase' came to be. She shares why certain words are disliked yet commonly used. Hal Hershfield, a professor at UCLA, emphasizes the importance of connecting with your future self to make better decisions today. He explores how envisioning our future identities can influence personal growth and financial planning. The interplay of language and self-identity makes for a thought-provoking conversation!

Glenn Adamson, former director of the Museum of Arts and Design and author of 'A Century of Tomorrows', discusses the unpredictable nature of futurology and how predictions can shape reality. He explores the emotional pull of foresight amid societal anxieties. Juliet Schor, an economist from Boston College, examines the long-debated idea of a 4-day workweek, highlighting its potential benefits for employee well-being and productivity. Both guests shed light on how societal shifts and technological advances influence the future of work.