Something You Should Know

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.

Gary Rivlin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter and author of 'AI Valley', dives into the double-edged sword of artificial intelligence, discussing its transformative potential and ominous societal implications. Meanwhile, Chris Berdik, journalist and author of 'Clamor', reveals the harmful health impacts of noise pollution, linking it to serious issues like heart disease. Together, they explore how both AI and noise affect our lives, urging listeners to rethink their relationship with technology and sound in our increasingly chaotic world.

Join Vanessa Patrick, an award-winning professor specializing in the art of saying no, and psychologist Jennifer Guttman, who explores the secrets to life satisfaction. They unpack the science behind empowered refusals, emphasizing how to set boundaries without guilt. The discussion shifts to the difference between fleeting happiness and lasting satisfaction, urging listeners to seek a more fulfilling life. Both guests provide actionable insights that help reshape perspectives on personal well-being and emotional resilience.

In this engaging discussion, Susan Dominus, a New York Times writer and author, explores how family dynamics, particularly sibling relationships and birth order, significantly shape individual success. She dispels common myths surrounding parenting's influence on children. Meanwhile, Lawrence Hurst, a professor of evolutionary genetics, reveals fascinating insights about human genetic diseases, emphasizing how evolution's imperfections persist. Together, they delve into the complex interplay of genetics and environment, reshaping our understanding of identity and health.