Curiosity Weekly
Discovery
Welcome to Curiosity Weekly from Discovery, hosted by Dr. Samantha Yammine. Once a week, we’ll bring you the latest and greatest in scientific discoveries and break down the details so that you don’t need a PhD to understand it. From neuroscience to climate tech to AI and genetics, no subject is off-limits. Join Sam as she interviews expert guests and investigates the research guiding some of the most exciting scientific breakthroughs affecting our world today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 11, 2018 • 9min
Time May Be Slowing Down, You Leave Good First Impressions, and Ouija Board Origins
Discover a fascinating theory suggesting that time might be slowing down, questioning our understanding of the universe's expansion. Unearth the 'liking gap', revealing that you often make better first impressions than you think, which can boost your confidence in social situations. Delve into the mysterious origins of the Ouija board, exploring its connections to 19th-century spiritualism and the misconceptions surrounding its name. These intriguing topics promise to pique your curiosity and broaden your knowledge!
Oct 10, 2018 • 9min
Why Aliens May Be Under Ice, Transnistria, and How Exclamation Points Stress People Out
Discover how the overuse of exclamation points can lead to punctuation anxiety, impacting emotional communication. Delve into the theory that alien life might be lurking beneath icy surfaces in our solar system, sparking curiosity about the universe. Lastly, explore the fascinating case of Transnistria, a self-proclaimed country that exists in limbo, caught between history and modern identity struggles. Each topic invites you to think deeper and engage with the quirks of our world.
Oct 9, 2018 • 9min
Measuring Your FOMO, Tashirojima “Cat Island,” and the Man Who Put His Head Inside A Particle Accelerator (and Survived!)
Discover the psychological effects of FOMO and how to measure it with a science-backed quiz. Uncover the fascinating story of a Russian scientist who survived an incredible accident involving a particle accelerator. Journey to Tashirojima, a quirky 'Cat Island' in Japan, where feline residents far outnumber humans and charm visitors with cat-themed attractions. This blend of psychology, science, and unique travel tales is both enlightening and entertaining!
Oct 8, 2018 • 9min
Schrödinger's Second Cat, Asymmetric Insight, and Why You Should Study How You Study
Explore a groundbreaking twist on Schrödinger's cat that could challenge quantum physics. Discover a study technique from a Stanford researcher to help students transform B+ grades into A's. Delve into the cognitive bias known as asymmetric insight, which reveals that we often understand others better than ourselves. Learn how this impacts communication and relationships, and get tips for enhancing self-awareness in your learning process.
Oct 7, 2018 • 10min
Nuclear Pasta, Belly Button Science, How Lighting Affects Learning and Memory, and the Worst Diet Fads Ever
Discover how poor lighting can hinder productivity and memory, supported by surprising research. Dive into the bizarre world of nuclear pasta—arguably the universe's strongest material found in neutron stars. Learn about the most ridiculous diet fads that one should avoid at all costs. And explore the science behind those intriguing belly buttons, uncovering the reasons behind innies and outies. Unravel these fascinating topics and boost your knowledge in just a few minutes!
Oct 5, 2018 • 9min
3-Step Fear Control Method, Quantum Physics Changing the Past, and Red Meat Allergies from Tick Bites
Discover a mind-bending quantum physics theory that suggests your choices might alter the past. Learn about how a bite from a lone star tick can trigger an unusual allergy to red meat. Plus, dive into a practical three-step method designed to help you control your fears by tackling real versus imagined threats. These intriguing topics promise to expand your understanding of science and offer valuable insights for everyday life.
Oct 4, 2018 • 9min
First Moon Beyond Our Solar System Discovery, Jacuzzi of Despair, and The Winner Effect
Astronomers may have discovered the first exomoon, orbiting a distant planet 8,000 light years away, though further validation is needed. Dive into the chilling 'Jacuzzi of Despair' in the Gulf of Mexico, a toxic underwater trap for marine life. The discussion also uncovers the 'winner effect,' revealing how a single victory can lead to more successes, illustrated by studies on mice and their motivation. Each topic is sure to spark curiosity and wonder about the universe and human behavior!
Oct 3, 2018 • 8min
A New World Beyond Pluto, Neuroscience’s Take on Free Will, and Blue Zones Where People Live Longer
Discover a newly found dwarf planet beyond Pluto, affectionately dubbed 'The Goblin,' and learn about its intriguing 40,000-year orbit. Dive into the debate between free will and neuroscience, where research suggests our choices might be more automatic than we think. Explore the secrets of Blue Zones, regions where people live significantly longer, uncovering lifestyle habits and community ties that promote longevity and a vibrant life.
Oct 2, 2018 • 10min
Plants That Light Up When Attacked, A 5-Minute Trick for Falling Asleep, and The Creepy Carleton Villa
Discover a fascinating plant that glows when it's attacked, showcasing the amazing intelligence of flora. Dive into the haunting history of Carlton Villa, a house notorious for its eerie past. Plus, learn a simple 5-minute trick that can help you fall asleep faster by writing down tasks for the next day. With a blend of science and spookiness, this lively discussion keeps you engaged and curious about the world around you.
Oct 1, 2018 • 8min
Flu Shot Timing, Space Experiment Requirements, and Relationship Deal Breakers, According to Research
Discover the criteria for getting scientific experiments approved for space, emphasizing feasibility and potential benefits. Learn why timing is crucial for your flu shot, including the advantages of early and late vaccinations. Finally, dive into research on the top relationship deal breakers, revealing the traits that can make or break a partnership. From space to love, this discussion has you covered!
