The hosts tackle Kristin's doubts about making life-changing decisions in a chaotic world. They discuss challenges of maintaining focus amidst digital distractions and the emotional turmoil of becoming parents in uncertain times. Personal stories of disillusionment with faith and societal progress highlight the tension between expert optimism and harsh realities. The conversation balances humor and despair while reflecting on the impact of current political issues, ultimately promoting personal empowerment and a hopeful outlook for the future.

Wendy Zuckerman, the witty host of Science Vs., dives into the surreal world of lucid dreaming. She discusses the quirks of dreaming and tests scientifically backed methods to control dreams. The conversation reveals how psychologists and neuroscientists are exploring lucid dreaming for healing and understanding consciousness. Insights from experts shed light on its therapeutic potential and surprising experiments, including using eye movement signals. Tune in for a blend of humor, science, and the bizarre workings of our subconscious!

This week’s guest is Casey Koss, a passionate librarian on a quest to uncover the history behind a mysterious button. He hilariously dives into the origins of quirky button designs, like the fictional chili cheese fries button, revealing the joy in absurd mysteries. Casey shares his quirky internship experience at the Busy Beaver Button Museum, blending sports history with button collecting. The conversation highlights the whimsical world of collectibles, showcasing how personal stories and creative expression bring people together.

Dylan raises concerns over energy inefficiencies at grocery stores, focusing on the outdated refrigeration systems that waste energy and harm the environment. He navigates the challenging landscape of contacting major grocery chains about their practices. The conversation also highlights the historical design choices affecting supermarkets today and encourages listeners to advocate for change. With a push for awareness, the hosts delve into the wasteful habits often associated with grocery shopping, urging action on these pressing issues.

Sign up for bonus episodes and extra content at: https://hyperfixedpod.com/joinThis week: Eva lives in the UK, loves to bake, and frequently tries to bake American recipes. But Americans measure by volume and everyone else measures by weight — and converting those measurements is complicated, for complicated reasons.Do you have problems you'd like Alex and the gang to solve? Get in touch with us at http://hyperfixedpod.com by clicking the "Submit a Problem" button.Links: The National Institute of Standards and MeasuresLe Grand KBeyond Measure by James Vincent

Gwen, a New Yorker who never learned to drive, shares her fears of being too old to start now. The conversation delves into the anxiety of driving in NYC, highlighting the dramatic shift from pedestrian-friendly to car-dominated streets. Gwen reflects on societal pressures and personal growth, emphasizing the importance of support in overcoming driving fears. Listeners gain insight into the transformative power of experience and the challenges faced by those navigating urban roads without a license.

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.