Explain It to Me

Join Rachel Cohen-Booth, a housing policy expert at Vox, Jerusalem Dimsis, a culture and policy commentator, and Jasmine Melvin, a co-buyer sharing a home, as they challenge traditional views on homeownership. They explore the rising appeal of long-term renting, alternative housing models like adult dorms, and the emotional and practical benefits of cohabitation. Jerusalem pushes back against the homeownership ideal, emphasizing community access and financial freedom. This engaging discussion redefines the American dream around flexibility and shared living.

This discussion features Lisa Jarvis, a Bloomberg healthcare reporter, who breaks down plan types like HMO and PPO, while offering tips for open enrollment. Julie Rovner, Chief Washington Correspondent at KFF Health News, dives into why premiums are spiking due to factors like rising healthcare utilization and the lack of price regulations. Dylan Scott from Vox explores alternative insurance options like short-term plans and the limitations of healthcare cost-sharing ministries. Together, they equip listeners with practical strategies to navigate these complex topics.

Join investigative minds Alex Salmon, a Slate reporter who engaged with a smishing job scam, Matt Burgess of Wired delving into how these scams proliferate, and Erin West, a former prosecutor turning the spotlight on human trafficking linked to scam call centers. They unravel the mechanics behind scam texts, the shocking conditions in scam compounds, and the disturbing intersection of crime and exploitation. Discover how to recognize and combat these pervasive threats while learning about the dark underbelly of scams that prey on the unsuspecting.

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.