Twenty Thousand Hertz

Linguist and philosopher Paul Saka, renowned for his work at the University of Texas on quasi-quotation, joins the conversation on unique speech patterns. They explore the scarcely understood 'Five Dah Phenomenon,' a phrase that's bypassed dictionaries and Google altogether. With humor, they discuss the playful evolution of phrases like 'da-da' and their cultural impact. The talk highlights how these expressions shape our communication and how curiosity can enhance listening skills, all while probing the intriguing connections between language and memory.

Ben Brock Johnson, co-host of the Endless Thread podcast, dives into the fascinating world of the Lofi Girl YouTube channel, created by the elusive French producer Dimitri. He discusses its massive impact, with millions of listeners finding comfort in its calming beats. The episode explores how Lofi music aids focus, particularly for neurodivergent individuals, and the emotional bond fans develop with characters like the Lofi Girl and Lofi Boy. Insights from a music therapist reveal how these rhythmic sounds enhance brain function and foster community among listeners.

Join Dr. David Steensma, a medical professional specializing in sound and health, and Dr. Daniel Weiss, an expert in medical diagnosis, as they delve into the intriguing world of bodily sounds. They discuss the evolution of auditory examination in medicine, from Hippocrates to modern AI-assisted tools. Learn how sounds, like heartbeats, can reveal health mysteries. Their engaging conversation highlights the significance of these sounds in diagnosis and the exciting technologies reshaping medical listening today.

Flying Lotus, a legendary beatmaker known for his innovative sound design, joins Apple Design Team members Billy Sorrentino and Hugo Verweij to explore the magic behind Apple’s iconic sounds. They discuss the evolution of iPhone ringtones and alarm sounds, revealing the cultural impact of classics like the Marimba. The team shares insights into integrating sound with haptics, transforming user interaction into a unique auditory experience. Lotus also details his collaboration with Apple, highlighting the creative processes that make their sounds so recognizable.

Explore the fascinating world of sound design at Apple, where creativity meets technology. Discover the journey of the iconic Tritone alert, created through musical experimentation and emotional resonance. Learn about the evolution of Apple's signature sounds and how they enhance user experiences across devices. Delve into the unique inspiration behind new notification tones, like a delightful kalimba melody for alerts, and understand the role of sound in forging deep connections with users.

Listener Stories episode features unexpected sound experiences like auditory hallucinations, amplified heartbeats, and long-lost voices. Stories include a childhood call and response tradition, giving up sounds due to post-concussion syndrome, and newfound sound appreciation post-brain injury.

Explore the dark history behind famous nursery rhymes, from traditional tunes to modern songs. Discover the emotional power of singing to children and the evolution of children's music. Uncover the science behind developing nursery rhymes for babies and reflect on the importance of music in childhood development.

Acoustician Al Jones and Professor John Hildebrand discuss the impacts of human-generated noise on marine animals, particularly whales. They explore underwater soundscapes, whale communication, and conservation efforts. The podcast delves into tragic events caused by military sonar and emphasizes the importance of reducing underwater noise pollution for the well-being of marine life.

Music producer and sound designer from MassiveMusic discuss the creation of TikTok's iconic sonic logo, detailing the meticulous process, covert marketing strategy, and final debate over a single note. The podcast explores the unexpected impact of a dog bark in the logo, TikTok's Sonic DNA strategy, and the fusion of science and art in sonic branding.

Fred Hedemark, Broadcast Mixer for Late Night with Seth Meyers, gives a behind-the-scenes look at the complexities of sound production for late-night television. He shares stories of the adrenaline-filled live shows, the meticulous preparation required, and the challenges of working in a high-pressure environment.