Short Wave

Gabriel Spitzer, a former NPR Science Desk reporter, joins researcher Mercedes Sheen to dive into the fascinating world of disputed memories among siblings. They explore how siblings, especially identical twins, can argue over shared memories, like a first kiss, revealing the intricacies of memory ownership. The discussion delves into how our recollections often serve personal narratives and identity, raising questions about memory reliability and the broader implications for eyewitness accounts. Tune in for an insightful look at the tangled nature of memory!

Wildlife ecologists are tracking the northward expansion of white-tailed deer in Canada’s boreal forests. They’ve uncovered that climate change is the main driver behind this migration, rather than human land development. This shift poses a threat to local species, particularly the boreal caribou, as increased deer populations can lead to higher predation rates. Tune in to learn more about how these environmental changes are reshaping wildlife dynamics in the region!

Astrophysicists discuss our galaxy being pulled off course by the mysterious 'Great Attractor' at incredible speeds. The 'Zone of Avoidance' blocks our view of this phenomenon, leaving many questions about its nature. The podcast explores the intricacies of celestial motions and the potential impact of reaching this enigmatic force.

Nate Rott, an NPR correspondent specializing in climate change, joins to discuss the innovative board game Catan: New Energies. They explore how the game mirrors real-world dilemmas around energy use and environmental impacts without directly mentioning climate change. The conversation highlights the game's mechanics that teach players about sustainability and the urgent need for dialogue on pollution. Rott emphasizes the potential of board games to create engaging discussions about serious issues, making complex themes accessible and thought-provoking.

Ping Huang, a dedicated science reporter focused on environmental health, dives into the ongoing lead contamination crisis that began in Flint, Michigan. She discusses how pediatrician Mona Hanna-Attisha's data-driven advocacy sparked a nationwide conversation. The conversation shifts to Chicago, highlighting dangerous lead levels affecting children, and the critical need for updated EPA regulations. With personal stories of community struggles, they emphasize the urgency for policy change and public awareness to ensure access to safe drinking water.

Jakob Shockey, the executive director of Project Beaver, discusses the vital role of beavers as keystone species in ecosystems. He highlights how these industrious creatures can help mitigate climate change and improve water quality. The conversation dives into the challenges of human-beaver coexistence, offering alternative strategies to traditional removal methods. Jakob also shares personal anecdotes, illuminating the complex yet essential relationship between communities and beavers, and encourages a thoughtful approach to living alongside these furry neighbors.

The conversation dives deep into the alarming reality of overfishing and its impact on marine life. Learn about the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch, a valuable tool for consumers to make environmentally friendly seafood choices. A visit to a sustainable sushi restaurant showcases how dining can support preservation efforts. Differences between wild-caught and farm-raised fish are explored, highlighting the power of consumer curiosity in fostering sustainability. Along the way, inspiring conservation stories illustrate hope for the future of our oceans.

A father-daughter duo on a beach made a thrilling discovery: the fossils of a giant ichthyosaur, the largest known marine reptile measuring over 80 feet long. This find enhances our understanding of these ancient creatures, often dubbed 'giant fish lizards.' The podcast dives into the identification and preservation of this remarkable specimen, setting the stage for its future display in a museum. Tune in to uncover how such discoveries reshape our knowledge of prehistoric life.

Karma Nanglu, a postdoctoral fellow at Harvard's Museum of Comparative Zoology, explores the mysterious Selkirkia worms from the Cambrian period and their surprising survival 25 million years longer than thought. This discovery reshapes our understanding of evolutionary timelines. With a focus on the longevity and adaptive strategies of these ancient creatures, Karma discusses how new fossil evidence challenges traditional boundaries between the Cambrian and Ordovician periods, highlighting the importance of conservation paleobiology in preserving our understanding of Earth's history.

Dive into the fascinating world of pleasure, where societal guilt meets joy! Discover how the brain's intricate mechanisms drive our desire to indulge in guilty pleasures like reality TV or video games. Explore the difference between 'wanting' and 'liking,' and how guilt can sometimes enhance enjoyment. Learn about the neuroscience behind pleasure, its biological necessity for survival, and the importance of self-acceptance in navigating our cravings. Unpack the pleasure cycle and find ways to build a healthier relationship with what makes us feel good!