How do trains work? We went to Union Station in Washington, DC to answer a whole wagonload of questions with Amtrak's Patrick Kidd.A few years ago, we left our studio in Vermont to hop on the Amtrak Acela train that runs multiple trips per day between Washington, DC, New York City and Boston. But don't worry; we got off before the train departed! It was so much fun, we wanted to bring you that journey again!Questions we're answering in this episode: How do trains work? What about electric trains? Steam trains? Bullet trains? Why do they have to go on tracks? How can trains go so fast even though they're so heavy? And why don’t trains have seat belts?Download our learning guides: PDF | Google Slide |Transcript

Join musician and champion whistler Emily Eagen as she dives into the fascinating world of whistling. Discover how sound is created and why your tongue can change the pitch. Learn about the cultural significance of whistling, including its surprising role in languages like Silbo Gomero. Emily shares tips for beginners, emphasizing whistling as a joyful form of musical expression. Plus, hear about exciting competitions and the delightful story behind the podcast's theme song, all brought to life with audience participation!

Wildlife biologist Emily Carollo, from Panthera, shares her expertise on wild cats and their relationship to our house pets. She explains why many cats are afraid of water and the unique behaviors of different species. Discover how wild cats communicate, why their eyes glow at night, and the intricacies of their diets and habitats. Emily also tackles the fascinating dynamics of predator-prey relationships, the potential reintroduction of mountain lions, and how humans can build trust with scared house cats.

What would your superpower be? Kids share their imaginative superpowers and quirky names, from flying to perfect drawing skills. Fascinatingly, many wish for math abilities! The podcast explores the roots of superheroes, emphasizing their rich history in comics. It highlights the joy of creativity and how imagination shapes our dreams. Plus, it connects the concept of superpowers to real-life heroism, encouraging kindness and curiosity in everyday adventures. It’s an entertaining dive into youthful aspirations!

Adrien Plouffe, a factory automation engineer at GlobalFoundries, dives into the fascinating world of robotics and automation in microchip manufacturing. He explores how robots work, their design decisions, and the processes behind microchip production. Listeners learn about the functions of robots in manufacturing, from transporting materials to their programmed movements. The discussion also touches on whether robots can be considered alive and encourages kids to explore their interests in robotics and STEM education, sparking curiosity and inspiring future innovators.

Zoologist Arik Kirschenbaum, author of *Why Animals Talk*, dives into the captivating world of animal communication. He discusses why animals can't speak human language and explores the unique ways different species convey messages. Discover how parrots mimic human speech while other birds don’t, and learn about the communicative talents of dolphins and wolves. Arik also shares insights into the evolutionary roots of language and the complexities behind animal interactions, sparking curiosity about the communication of our furry and feathered friends.

Mary Roach, the witty author of Gulp: Adventures on the Alimentary Canal, dives into the fascinating world of digestion. She unpacks why we poop and the science behind poop's brown color and smell. Listeners learn why fiber is crucial for digestion and how astronauts tackle bathroom breaks in space. Roach also highlights the surprising roles of poop in nature, discussing its benefits for flies and bacteria, making this a playful yet informative conversation on a topic that’s often avoided.

Clinical psychologist Eileen Kennedy-Moore, known as Dr. Friendtastic, dives into the complexities of anxiety in children. She explains how moderate anxiety can be a useful survival mechanism, while excessive worry may hinder growth and enjoyment. Eileen offers practical tips for managing anxiety, including the 'badness scale' to assess fears and emphasizing small acts of courage to build confidence. She reassures young listeners that they're not alone, as even adults face similar feelings, fostering a sense of shared experience.

Join Vermont's Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas, who oversees statewide elections, and South Burlington City Clerk Holly Reese, who prepares the voting equipment. They dive into the voting process, explaining how ballots are counted in Vermont and the stringent protocols ensuring election integrity. Discover how kids can engage by observing voting machines and counting processes. Plus, learn about the importance of transparency and the balance between security and access to voting—a fascinating peek into the electoral system!

Bridgett King, a political scientist from the University of Kentucky, dives into the world of elections and voting systems. She explains why kids can’t vote and unpacks the meaning behind red and blue states. The discussion reveals how someone can win the popular vote but still lose the presidency, and she debates the significance of the Electoral College. King also emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and understanding voting rights, making complex topics fun and accessible for young listeners.