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
18 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.
13 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.
11 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 40min
The Aldean Instrument
Dive into the world of Star Trek as Astrid takes on the challenge of recreating the Aldean Instrument, a fascinating tool that emphasizes mood in music. Discover the complexities of musical instruments in the series, transitioning from entertainment to symbols of cultural depth. The conversation explores the creative journey behind designing a prototype with everyday materials, showcasing innovative instrument technology. There's also a fun discussion about the special font that gained community recognition, hinting at more exciting projects to come!
4 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 5min
Premium Episode Preview: A Slice of Hope
Dive into a heartfelt journey as a mother and daughter hunt for the perfect cake in New York City, uncovering the deep familial connections tied to sweet memories. Enjoy a whimsical story involving a mother cockroach and a 'missing magical cake,' blending humor with the challenges of baking. The discussion also hints at a curious unsolved mystery while emphasizing the significance of understanding our history to navigate today’s world. It's a delightful blend of nostalgia and light-hearted fun that everyone can enjoy!
20 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 25min
The Thing About Losing Everything
The host shares a powerful story about resilience after losing everything in a devastating fire. An iPod Classic becomes a symbol of memory, with the host reflecting on the emotional weight of music and nostalgia. The challenges of transferring data and preserving cherished memories add a nostalgic twist. Community support shines through as the journey of rebuilding identity unfolds, illustrating how small victories can aid in healing. It's a compelling exploration of loss, identity, and the irreplaceable comfort of music.
24 snips
May 22, 2025 • 35min
Little By Little
Explore the exciting world of music hardware design as a Berlin-based designer uncovers the nuances between vintage and modern circuit boards. Dive into the nostalgia and challenges surrounding a beloved font at risk of disappearing, including humorous tales from Autodesk interactions. Reflect on how fashion evolves through personal journeys and the rise of affordable luxury brands. Also, learn about the fascinating history of vector fonts and the collaborative efforts behind the development of the lit.chr font, emphasizing the importance of shared creativity.
20 snips
May 8, 2025 • 38min
The “World's Greatest” Episode
Dive into the tale of a century-old medal awarded to a mysterious ancestor, who was once dubbed 'the world's greatest mind reader.' Explore the intriguing world of secret societies and their impact during the Gilded Age. The conversation also touches on the challenges of verifying historical legacies amidst swirling mysteries. Enjoy insights into sustainability and the history of Austin's Nickelodeon, revealing cultural shifts and the struggles of performers in a changing entertainment landscape.
18 snips
Apr 24, 2025 • 34min
Parker’s Obsessed with this Movie (But She Cannot Find it Anywhere)
Your membership to Hyperfixed helps us keep the show going. Please consider becoming a member to get bonus episodes, access to our discord, exclusive merch, and more!hyperfixedpod.com/joinThis week: Somehow, a movie release in 2014 has disappeared off the internet. It can't be streamed, it can't be torrented, you can't even buy a physical copy. Parker needs to see it.LINKS: Missing MoviesThe Day the Clown CriedThe Missing Dr. Who EpisodesI Am Obsessed With You But You've Got to Leave Me Alone
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22 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 37min
MOORED: A Cautionary Tale
Jenny Phenix, a former passenger of the Villa Vie Odyssey cruise, shares her gripping journey after her contract was terminated. She discusses the stark contrast between the dream of luxurious living on a cruise and the harsh realities faced by residents. Jenny delves into her emotional turmoil and the legal battles she is pursuing against the cruise company. She highlights the challenges of reclaiming personal belongings and the intense community dynamics, revealing the fears that keep others from speaking out about their experiences.
54 snips
Mar 27, 2025 • 35min
The Shopify Arms Race
In this discussion, John Crane, Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at ICANN, sheds light on the alarming rise of e-commerce scams driven by spoofed websites. He explores the creation of StoreLock, an app developed to combat these deceptive practices. The conversation delves into the complexities of online fraud, the role of ICANN in managing domain security, and the impact of GDPR on data privacy. Crane emphasizes the collective responsibility required to ensure safety in the digital marketplace while navigating the challenges faced by small businesses.
