Short Wave

Dallas Haselhuhn, a biologist specializing in tarantula migration, reveals how climate change influences the intriguing mating rituals of these misunderstood spiders. As male tarantulas emerge in Colorado, he discusses their perilous journey driven by temperature changes, and how this annual migration leads to a community celebration. The podcast highlights cultural perceptions of tarantulas and their resilience in a warming world, shedding light on the delicate balance of nature and the impact of climate change on these fascinating creatures.

Freelance science journalist Diana Kwon explores the intriguing link between stress and aging. She discusses groundbreaking research showing how stress alters our DNA, mimicking aging effects. The conversation uncovers 'zombie cells'—aging cells that sap resources from healthier ones—and their role in cognitive decline. Kwon highlights GDF-15, a key molecule involved in cellular stress signaling, and hints at potential lifestyle changes and treatments that could reverse stress-related aging. It’s a captivating look at how science may unlock healthier aging!

Hannah Chin, a producer at NPR, dives into the captivating world of deep-sea giants as she shares insights from her research on these fascinating creatures. Discover the mystery of deep-sea gigantism and the extraordinary adaptations allowing these animals to thrive in the dark depths. Hannah discusses the challenges of studying colossal squids and giant isopods and highlights the urgent need to protect these ecosystems amid climate change. Tune in for a thrilling exploration of the ocean's most elusive denizens!

Join Yasmin Tayag, a food, health, and science writer at The Atlantic, as she unpacks the dire effects of climate change on the chocolate industry. Tune in to discover how extreme weather is contributing to a cocoa shortage and soaring candy prices. Yasmin discusses the socio-economic challenges faced by cocoa farmers while highlighting innovative alternatives like oat-based chocolate. Plus, don’t miss the fun chocolate alternative taste test and fascinating insights into the cacao-to-confection journey!

Susana Martinez-Conde, a renowned professor specializing in ophthalmology and neurology, shares her insights on the captivating world of visual illusions. Discover how our brains interpret motion through astonishing examples, including award winners from her Illusion of the Year contest. The conversation dives into the science behind perception, revealing how illusions shape our understanding of reality. Martinez-Conde highlights the unique interplay of art and neuroscience, illustrating why these quirks of perception aren't flaws but fundamental features of the brain.

A retiree in Arizona shares his worries about escalating summer heat, reflecting broader climate challenges. The podcast dives into rising heat wave statistics and their alarming link to climate change. It explores the role of greenhouse gases and their impact on our atmosphere. Solutions for urban heat crises are discussed, including cooling centers and greening efforts. The future implications for ecosystems and human health paint a sobering picture of what rising temperatures mean for us all.

This time, Noelle Bolin, a fisheries biologist at NOAA, dives into the ocean's twilight zone, revealing its secrets. She discusses the diel vertical migration, where marine creatures rise nightly to feed, marking the largest migration on Earth. Bolin explains how squishy organisms adapt to this unique habitat and their crucial role in carbon cycling. The conversation also highlights urgent challenges facing these ecosystems, including fishing pressures and climate change, stressing the need for ongoing research and awareness.

Discover the surprising evolutionary history of spiders, revealing that their ancestors may have originated in the ocean rather than on land. Dive into groundbreaking studies on fossilized marine arthropods and their similarities to modern arachnids. Explore the intriguing connections between maternal age and child gender ratios, and learn about the phenomenon of sex clustering in large families. Plus, uncover the celestial wonders of star clusters and their growth patterns in the night sky.

Join pediatrician Eva Trujillo, President of the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals, as she discusses the alarming rise of eating disorders among teenagers during the pandemic. She highlights the brain's changes associated with these illnesses and the critical role of proper treatment for recovery. Alongside teen mental health advocate Moorea Friedman, they explore the pervasive influence of diet culture and share compassionate strategies to aid recovery, emphasizing the need for awareness, support, and identity reclamation.

The podcast discusses the proposed 24% budget cuts to NASA, the largest in history. It highlights concerns about halted projects like the Mars sample return and the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope. Experts warn of a potential brain drain as funding reallocations favor human spaceflight over essential scientific research. Insights into ongoing congressional discussions offer hope for a less drastic outcome. The connection between basic science and future Mars missions is also explored, emphasizing the critical need for continued investment in space science.