Explain It to Me

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Dhruv Kular, a physician at Weill Cornell Medicine, and Dr. Eric Topol, a physician-scientist at Scripps Research, explore the transformative role of AI in healthcare. They dive into the risks and benefits of AI in diagnostics and patient self-assessment, emphasizing the importance of responsible usage. Kular highlights how chatbots can mislead patients and increase anxiety, while Topol advocates for AI's potential to enhance doctor-patient interactions. Together, they discuss safeguarding against biases and ensuring equitable access in healthcare.

Eric Pallant, a bread historian and author of Sourdough Culture, dives into the secrets of why food tastes better abroad. He contrasts the artisanal craftsmanship of French boulangeries with the blandness of industrial bread in the U.S., pointing out that slow fermentation creates rich flavors often missing in commercial loaves. Pallant also discusses how American flour standards prioritize speed over taste. Discover why tomatoes and Wagyu beef also shine better on foreign soil, thanks to cultural practices and local farming.

In this discussion, Dr. Jenny Radesky, a developmental behavioral pediatrician and media researcher, shares insights on the impacts of screen time for toddlers. She challenges the conventional wisdom of keeping kids away from technology by highlighting the potential educational benefits of guided screen use. Topics include the changing landscape of children's media, the importance of curating high-quality content, and the effects of solitary versus shared screen time. Radesky also offers practical tips for parents navigating this complex issue.

In this engaging discussion, Jamil Zaki, a Stanford psychology professor, delves into the science of empathy, breaking it down into three components: emotional empathy, cognitive empathy, and empathic concern. Roxanne Stone, an executive editor, critiques the notion of 'toxic empathy' arising from some evangelical voices, exploring its political implications. They tackle whether empathy hinders objectivity and discuss the societal shifts reducing our incentives to empathize. Zaki also shares tips on cultivating empathy and recovering from burnout.

Phil Macyak, an academic exploring the evolution of fatherhood, reveals how post-WWII media shaped modern dad personas. Journalist Faith Hill discusses the rise of single fathers by choice, highlighting their motivations for seeking parenthood later in life. Zach Rosen, a podcaster and dad, shares his personal transformation in friendships post-parenthood and the social challenges men face. Together, they delve into shifting definitions of masculinity, the dynamics of modern parenting, and how these changes influence men’s lives today.

Join Allie Bolby, a Vox writer exploring the dynamics of relationships, as she dives into the alarming trend of rising rudeness in society. She’s joined by Jessica Lam Shapiro, author of Promise Land, who outlines the ups and downs of the self-help industry. Nedra Glover-Tawab, a licensed therapist, shares valuable insights on defining and maintaining healthy boundaries. Together, they question whether the quest for self-improvement could actually be making us more antisocial and offer practical tools for reconnecting.

Join Paul Daguerrebedian, Head of Marketplace Trends for Comscore, as he dives into the booming horror film industry. Discover the psychological pull of horror movies and why they dominate the box office this year. Paul discusses the quirky success of sequels and the blend of humor with horror, showing how laughter can enhance fear. The conversation also touches on nostalgia and the evolution of horror cinema, exploring its cultural significance and lasting impact on audiences across generations.

In this engaging discussion, Amanda Moll, a Senior reporter at Bloomberg focused on Southern topics, and Elizabeth Bronwyn Boyd, author of Southern Beauty, dive into the shifting cultural landscape of the U.S. They explore why more students from the Northeast are flocking to Southern colleges, fueled by vibrant campus cultures and social media trends like 'Rush Talk.' The conversation also touches on the evolution of Southern womanhood and how historical changes have shaped modern identity, making the South a potent influence on American culture.

Hady Mawajdeh, a producer with a flair for storytelling, dives into the booming fitness culture in America. From the rise of community-focused gyms to personal transformations, he illustrates how motivations for exercise have evolved. Discussions touch on the historical shifts in women’s roles in fitness, the impact of influential figures like Jane Fonda, and the mental health benefits of physical activity. Mawajdeh also emphasizes innovative wellness practices, such as breathwork, highlighting their significance in modern holistic health.

In this engaging discussion, Adam Clark Estes, a Vox Tech reporter, shares his personal experiences with health wearables, detailing their pros and cons. Anahad O'Connor, a Washington Post health columnist, dives into the murky waters of supplement regulation and safety concerns. Ruth Wood, a neurobiologist, discusses the rise of hormone replacement therapy and its impact on fitness. The trio humorously unpacks health trends while critiquing the supplement industry's pitfalls, leading to a thought-provoking exploration of modern wellness culture.