The Pulse

For thousands of years, we've thought of language as one of the key features that makes humans unique. But with the rapid evolution of large language models, the line between human communication and AI is starting to blur. On this episode, we explore the possibilities and limits of AI-generated language, how it's changing the way we communicate, and the implications for what it means to be human.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What does it mean to be 'gifted'? Who qualifies and how should we teach and treat gifted children? And, where do the limits of their talents lie? On this encore episode, we hear stories about the challenges of growing up gifted, how musical prodigies are made — and identified, and what a chess wunderkind has to teach us about the value of raw talent vs. experience.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Thanksgiving is a lovely holiday — a time for food, family, and counting our blessings. But let's face it: The festivities don't always go as planned. On this episode, we explore the full range of holiday catastrophes, from travel hiccups to cooking disasters, and offer expert advice on how to avoid them.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

We not only love trees for their beauty — we need them for our survival. But around the world, some trees, and even entire forests, are facing numerous existential threats. On this episode, we explore why we need trees, the dangers they face, and new efforts to help them survive and thrive.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

How does nature make durable materials like corals and seashells without a heat or a kiln? How do peacock feathers get their beautiful colors? Scientists are trying to understand these processes and to replicate them for sustainable human products and design. The field of biomimicry is growing. We'll explore its origins and hear about some of the latest innovations.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Circadian rhythms affect more than our sleep — they can shape all aspects of our health, and are in turn shaped by the rhythms of our lives. We explore the intricate mechanics of our internal clocks, and how they affect our health.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

With a contested presidential election looming, we explore what's at stake for health and science, from fertility medicine to cyber security with voting machines, and efforts by scientists to protect themselves from political influence.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

It's that time of year when we celebrate something we usually hate: fear. We visit haunted houses and corn mazes or binge-watch the scariest horror movies. In its most primitive form, fear is about survival — so we can face or escape serious threats. In other settings — where there's no danger — fear can feel exhilarating or fun. On this episode, we explore our complicated relationship with fear.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Your face flushes hot, maybe your fists clench, your heartbeat speeds up and your blood pressure rises. It's rage and it can go from zero to red-hot in seconds. It's normal to feel angry when you or somebody else has been wronged, mistreated, or hurt. But even justified rage can become destructive. How do we handle these fiery emotions when they erupt?Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Police generally aren't trained to deal with mental health crises — and yet they constantly find themselves called to intervene in these challenging situations, sometimes leading to disastrous results. On this episode, we explore efforts to change how law enforcement and health care work together.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy