Hyperfixed
Hyperfixed & Radiotopia
Maybe it’s just a quiet annoyance you’ve grudgingly learned to put up with, or a life defining issue that makes it hard to move forward. Whatever it is, Alex Goldman — reporter, radio producer, and overconfident idiot — will get to the bottom of it (if there’s a bottom to be found. Results may vary). Follow Alex as he figures out not only the vast hidden mechanisms that create these problems, but works with you, the listener, to find a solution. Or at least enough of an explanation that you’re ok with the annoyance. He’s not perfect. Hyperfixed is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX, a network of independent and listener-supported podcasts. Discover audio with vision at radiotopia.fm. Submit your problems and sign up for bonus episodes and much more at hyperfixedpod.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 23, 2025 • 30min
Phoebe's Origin Story
Phoebe Wahl, a Bellingham-based children's book author and illustrator, embarks on a nostalgic journey to rediscover a childhood video game that shaped her creativity. She shares how vivid memories of early books and games influence her work. Nostalgia's power is explored with Clay Routledge, who discusses its positive effects on mood and creativity. After a quest involving her preschool and classmates, Phoebe joyfully reconnects with the game McGee, even experiencing the thrill of sharing it with her daughter.
Oct 9, 2025 • 38min
A Song About Ethan
Listener Manon poses a hilarious question about the abundance of songs featuring her brother Ethan, particularly those focused on poop. The hosts uncover the surprising trend of name-based novelty songs, discuss the role of AI in music creation, and connect these quirky tracks to family bonds and shared humor. Prolific songwriter Matt Farley shares insights into his unique process and the impact of social media on music trends. The episode wraps up with a personalized song for Ethan that highlights the joy of family connections.
18 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 33min
Garbage Fruit [Or, The Fruit of Theseus]
David Karp, a pomologist and fruit expert, dives into the curious case of the Red Delicious apple—a fruit everyone loves to hate. He shares its intriguing origins, revealing how clever marketing turned the once-delicious Hawkeye apple into a grocery store staple. Discover the shift in consumer preference that led to increasingly bland apples, and learn why hotels stock them more for decoration than consumption. Karp also discusses the economic fallout from the apple industry's overproduction, leaving listeners with a taste of both history and humor.
22 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 59min
Presenting Proxy with Yowei Shaw: Alex and the Impossible Ask
Yowei Shaw, an emotional investigative journalist and the host of Proxy, engages with Alex, former Reply All host turned independent podcaster. They delve into the financial hurdles of independent media, confronting the stigma of fundraising. The discussion is lively, grappling with the emotional weight of asking for support while finding humor in the challenges. They explore innovative ways to connect with audiences and reshape the narrative of fundraising as an opportunity for community engagement rather than a burden.
18 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 35min
Third Eye Blind
Dive into the intriguing world of aphantasia, where visualization is a no-show! Explore a personal journey revealing the emotional and cognitive impacts on relationships and memories. Advanced fMRI techniques shed light on brain activity, revealing the surprising capabilities of those who can't visualize. Discover the spectrum of mental imagery, comparing vivid imaginations to the blank canvas of aphantasia. Heartfelt anecdotes highlight how auditory memories create lasting connections, proving that absence can still hold profound meaning.
30 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 42min
Bonus Episode *Unlocked*: Catman and Robin
In this engaging conversation, Robin Kintz, founder of FIP Warriors, shares her passionate journey advocating for cats suffering from Feline Infectious Peritonitis. She discusses the evolution and significance of the supportive Facebook group, emphasizing the emotional rollercoaster faced by pet owners. Robin also addresses the ethical challenges within the community, including the balance between profit and care. With candid insights and a few tense moments, this chat reveals the complexities of navigating feline health and the strength found in shared experiences.
15 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 35min
The Cat Drug Black Market, Part III
Nicole Jacques, a former member of the FIP Warriors Facebook group, shares her journey from navigating the black market for cat medications to advocating for legal access to GS441524, a life-saving drug for cats with FIP. She discusses the transformation of community efforts that turned illicit practices into legitimate treatment options. The conversation dives into the challenges of black market pharmaceuticals, shedding light on moral complexities and regulatory hurdles. Jacques reflects on the impact of these changes on veterinary care and the passionate community behind them.
29 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 38min
The Cat Drug Black Market, Part II
A black market emerges to provide a lifesaving drug for cats with FIP, but turmoil brews within the community following a raid on a leader's home. Personal stories reveal strong emotional ties as ethical debates arise over finances and compensation practices. The group's integrity is called into question, leading to a schism among members. Meanwhile, accessibility of the crucial drug is transforming, moving from an underground supply to pharmacies. The podcast navigates the complex world of cat care and the challenges of a passionate community.
28 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 43min
The Cat Drug Black Market
Niels Peterson, Professor emeritus of veterinary medicine at UC Davis and expert in small animal pathology, discusses the compelling journey to treat Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). He reveals the ethical challenges of vet medicine and the frustration over FDA delays that push desperate pet owners to explore illegal treatment options. With insight into the underground world of FIP Warriors, Niels highlights the intersection of compassion and innovation, showing how a grassroots community is battling for their beloved cats amid legal and systemic hurdles.
24 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 1h 40min
Presenting: The Dream - Babies Not Having Babies
Jane Marie, host of The Dream podcast, teams up with Charlotte Eisenberg, a political journalist and reproductive rights advocate. They delve into Charlotte's transformative journey from a teenage anti-abortion activist to a pro-choice advocate following traumatic experiences. Their conversation exposes the emotional struggles surrounding reproductive choices, the pressures exerted by societal norms, and the impact of political morality on youth. It’s an eye-opening discussion that highlights the urgent need for understanding and compassion in the realm of reproductive rights.
