Revisionist History

In this discussion, Michael Specter, a renowned science writer for The New Yorker and MIT professor, dives into the transformative potential of mRNA vaccines and synthetic biology. He argues that this revolution rivals the impact of electricity on society. They explore groundbreaking innovations like heritable vaccines for endangered species and reflect on the public health lessons from the 1947 smallpox outbreak in New York. The conversation balances excitement for scientific advances with a cautionary perspective on the risks of rapid biotechnological progress.

In this insightful discussion, Justin Richmond, the creator and host of "Started From the Bottom," shares his journey as a biracial individual navigating identity and racism. He reflects on dropping out of high school and how literature reignited his academic passion. A life-changing dinner with Quincy Jones stands out as a pivotal moment, highlighting the importance of mentorship. Justin also addresses the stark disparities in opportunities for youth based on race, showcasing the resilience of those counted out in their quest for success.

Maria Konnikova, an author, psychologist, and professional poker player, takes on the role of ombudsman and dives into fascinating ethical discussions. She challenges Malcolm on the Minnesota starvation experiments and the evolving guidelines around drinking alcohol. They also explore the impact of iodized salt, the controversial addition of fluoride, and the ethics of human experimentation. Konnikova sheds light on the dilemmas researchers face with informed consent and the importance of inclusive studies that reflect diverse populations.

Comedian and storyteller Mike Birbiglia joins to dissect the often-overlooked art of endings in narratives. They explore how resolutions can transform audience perceptions, sharing personal tales from their Georgetown days. The duo tackles the fallout from Brian Williams' misleading story, probing the complexity of memory and accountability. They also humorously critique the quirks of autonomous vehicles. Ultimately, they celebrate storytelling's power, illustrated through touching moments like George Jones's poignant song about love and loss.

Rick Rubin, the legendary music producer known for his eclectic collaborations, joins Malcolm Gladwell for a captivating discussion. They delve into Rubin's new book, exploring how creativity can be unlocked through authenticity. The conversation touches on the interconnectedness of creativity, emphasizing the beauty in collaboration and imperfections. They also share personal anecdotes about musical tastes evolving and the transformative power of ideas, highlighting the journey of artistic appreciation and the value of community in creative endeavors.

Join a hilarious family road trip that tests the Cadillac LYRIQ's practicality for today's helicopter parents. Discover how this electric vehicle aims to soothe toddlers to sleep while cruising through stunning autumn scenery. Dive into a unique showdown between a classic 1963 Coupe de Ville and the modern LYRIQ, highlighting Cadillac's evolution. Experience the nostalgia of road trips blended with innovative luxury, while glimpsing the future of Cadillac's electric journey.

The podcast kicks off with a charming tale of a child discovering the Cadillac LYRIQ, showcasing its innovative design. Then, there's an exciting road trip adventure where the host tests the all-electric vehicle, sharing funny anecdotes and sharp observations. The blend of personal experiences and insights into cutting-edge technology makes for a thrilling ride. Listeners get a peek into the car's capabilities through blindfolded experiments and comparisons, keeping the excitement high for what's to come in the next installment.

Lake Bell, an accomplished actress, writer, and director, dives deep into the fascinating world of voice in a thought-provoking discussion. She unpacks the allure of the 'sexy baby voice,' exploring its implications for femininity and authority in today's culture. Through personal anecdotes and vocal experiments, Lake highlights how societal expectations influence perceptions of strength. The conversation also examines the tension between authentic vocal expression and the pressures women face in media, making for an engaging exploration of sound and identity.

Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist renowned for his insights on motivation and innovation, explores the power of misfits in this engaging discussion. He delves into how Pixar revolutionized animation by embracing unconventional talent and risk-taking. Grant highlights the significance of creative discontent and the 'underdog' mentality in driving innovation. He emphasizes collaboration as a key to overcoming challenges and how a supportive environment can foster groundbreaking creativity, transforming struggles into inspiration.

Explore the haunting legacy of the Minnesota Starvation Experiment through the lens of Lester Glick's traumatic journey. Discover the psychological scars and food struggles that linger long after. Delve into the ethical dilemmas surrounding starvation science and its implications on obesity. Hear poignant stories of empathy and kindness, with lessons learned from hunger. Experience a heartwarming intertwining of humanitarian efforts and the simple joy of cinnamon rolls, symbolizing sustenance and generosity amidst harsh realities.