Dr. Logan Casey, director of policy research at the Movement Advancement Project, and Kate Steinle, chief clinical officer at FOLX Health, delve into the pressing issue of gender-affirming care amid the presidential election. They discuss the alarming rise in restrictive legislation affecting transgender health rights and its emotional toll on trans and non-binary individuals. The conversation highlights the potential impacts on medical access if political shifts occur, underscoring the critical need for supportive, evidence-based healthcare for the transgender community.

Rachel Feltman hosts a discussion featuring Casey Crownhart, a senior climate reporter, who reveals surprising low bids in Maine's offshore wind auction amid rising renewable energy costs. They dive into pressing science news, discussing bird flu in pigs and AI’s electronic waste crisis. Artistic guest Sarah Rosalena, a Wixárika artist and professor, shares her unique fusion of Indigenous textile arts with modern tech, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with scientists, including those at NASA, to challenge the future of art and technology.

Danielle Venton, a science reporter from KQED, shares how California's Park Fire surprisingly revived milkweed, crucial for monarch butterflies' migration. It's a remarkable win for these endangered insects. Meanwhile, Tony Wyss-Coray, a neurology professor at Stanford, delves into parabiosis, where animals are surgically connected to study aging. This 'creepy' procedure sheds light on potential benefits of young blood for longevity and may unlock new treatments for Alzheimer’s and other age-related diseases. Fascinating science meets ecological surprises!

Dr. Barrett Klein, an entomologist and author of "The Insect Epiphany," dives into the incredible impact insects have on our world. He reveals how cochineal and lac insects shaped ancient dye production and explores the silkworm's pivotal role in trade along the Silk Road. The conversation highlights how dung beetles improve ecosystems and how insect innovations can inspire advances in science and architecture. It’s a fascinating exploration of our six-legged allies and their influence on culture and technology.

Dr. Katrina Kimport, a reproductive health expert from UCSF, and Dr. Cara Heuser, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist from Utah, dive into the sensitive topic of third-trimester abortions. They clarify misconceptions, highlighting that these procedures are rare yet often stigmatized. The discussion addresses emotional and medical complexities, advocacy for individual autonomy, and the ethics involved in such serious decisions. They also emphasize the need for empathy and informed conversations about women's reproductive choices.

A resident recounts the harrowing experience of raw sewage flooding his home, highlighting the severe impact of aging sewage systems. Health concerns arise as contaminated water leads to parasitic infections in the community. The discussion shifts to climate change's role in overwhelming these outdated infrastructures. Innovative solutions from Cincinnati offer hope, but frustrations linger over persistent issues. Walter's personal struggle reflects the urgent need for infrastructure improvements and the quest for a better living environment.

Paleontologists discuss ancient dinosaur footprints in South Korea, suggesting flight may have evolved in multiple dinosaur lineages. The debate spans the effectiveness of protest movements in garnering support for climate issues. Unique breathing patterns in individuals without a sense of smell are explored, along with a breakthrough brain stimulation technique to treat depression. Lastly, the capabilities of oriental hornets to tolerate alcohol are examined, linking to broader biodiversity efforts addressed at COP16.

In this engaging discussion, Susanna Monceau, an associate professor of philosophy and author, delves into how various animals perceive death. She shares fascinating insights on opossums’ uncanny ability to fake their own demise as a survival tactic. The conversation also highlights chimpanzees' nuanced emotional responses to loss, shaped by their relationships. Monceau emphasizes the instinctual nature of ants' reactions to deceased members without comprehending death itself, pushing the boundaries of how we understand animal cognition.

Guest Dr. Liz Krastil, an Associate Professor of Neurobiology and Behavior at UC Irvine, dives into the intriguing effects of pregnancy on the brain. She discusses how MRI scans reveal notable changes in gray and white matter during gestation. The conversation explores the phenomenon of 'pregnancy brain,' shedding light on forgetfulness and cognitive shifts. Dr. Krastil emphasizes the significance of these transformations and their connection to mental health issues like postpartum depression, highlighting a largely uncharted area of research.

Peter Kiesewalter, a Grammy-nominated musician from NYC, shares his surprising journey of discovering the beauty of moths through his brother's stunning macro photography. He discusses how metaphors simplify complex scientific ideas but can also mislead us. The conversation reveals the deep connections between moth life cycles and human experiences. By intertwining music and moth science in 'The Moth Project,' Kiesewalter showcases how artistic expression can illuminate and celebrate nature's wonders, even during challenging times.