Explain It to Me

Our brain constructs the world we hear, see, and feel — but tinnitus shows how that superpower can backfire. This episode is made in collaboration with Vox's Unexplainable. Hear their series on sound here. This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy, edited by Jenny Lawton, fact-checked by Melissa Hirsch, engineered by David Tatasciore, and hosted by Jonquilyn Hill. Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for the Hearing Health Foundation.  If you have a question, give us a call on 1-800-618-8545 or send us a note here. Listen to Explain It to Me ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Anton Korinek, an economics professor specializing in AI's economic impact, discusses the concept of AI abundance and its historical parallels to the Industrial Revolution. He emphasizes the potential of AI to boost economic opportunities while cautioning against worker displacement. Tom Waite, a culture and technology writer, explores how AI may redefine leisure and creativity, questioning whether more free time leads to fulfillment. Both guests suggest that meaningful political and economic changes are essential to ensure AI benefits everyone.

Shannon Sowers-Avala, a psychology professor at the University of Kentucky, explores the nuances between introversion and extroversion, discussing how the pandemic influenced social behaviors. Olga Hazán, a staff writer who experimented with becoming more extroverted, shares her transformative journey through improv and social challenges. They delve into the misconception of rigid personality types, emphasizing that traits can evolve and how both introverts and extroverts have valuable lessons to learn from each other.

Join Chef Hamil Whaley, a culinary expert, as he shares essential turkey-cooking tips and techniques for a perfect Thanksgiving feast. Historian Troy Bickham uncovers the fascinating rise of turkey as the holiday's star, linking it to themes of nationalism and commercialization. Gastroenterologist Dr. Trisha Pasricha provides insights on digestion, explaining how to enjoy the meal without post-feast regret. She suggests strategies to avoid overeating and debunks myths about turkey-induced sleepiness, ensuring your Thanksgiving is tasty and healthy!

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.