Short Wave

Freelance science journalist Sushmita Pathak, an expert on tornado geography, joins guest host Berly McCoy to discuss Tornado Alley, home to around 1,200 tornadoes each year. They dive into why this region sees so many more tornadoes than other parts of the world, attributing it to geographical factors. Pathak contrasts conditions in Central South America, revealing intriguing disparities. The duo also examines the impact of climate change on tornado activity, highlighting the complexity of environmental influences beyond just increasing temperatures.

Jonathan Lambert, NPR reporter with a focus on evolutionary biology, dives into the astonishing story of how Fijian iguanas made their way nearly 5,000 miles across the ocean. The discussion reveals that these creatures might have traveled on floating tree clumps, a phenomenon observed after hurricanes in the Caribbean. Lambert shares insights from recent studies that counter conventional theories, highlighting the impact of rare events on evolutionary paths and the challenges scientists face in piecing together the iguanas' fascinating history.

Geoff Brumfiel, an NPR science editor and correspondent, shares insights from his visit to Stanford's IRIS lab, where cutting-edge AI is transforming robotics. He discusses how AI is set to revolutionize robots, moving from concept to real-world applications. Brumfiel highlights notable advancements, like teachable neural networks, allowing robots to learn through experience. The episode also dives into the challenges of training robots versus chatbots and explores both the optimism and hurdles in achieving greater autonomy in robotic technology.

Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR's science correspondent, dives into the enigmatic world of narwhals and their fascinating tusks. She discusses rare drone footage that has revealed new tusk activities, including their roles in social behaviors and hunting techniques. Personal stories from an Inuit community add depth to the conversation. Nell also highlights the challenges researchers face studying these elusive creatures and the implications of climate change on their habitat. Join her as she unveils the mysteries of the 'unicorn of the sea'!

Clara Hoppe, a biogeochemist at the Alfred Wegener Institute, dives into the fascinating world of Arctic microalgae. She reveals how these tiny organisms defy expectations during the extended darkness of winter, managing to photosynthesize and thrive. Clara shares insights from her research expeditions in the Svalbard Archipelago, illustrating their remarkable resilience and survival strategies. The discussion sheds light on how these microorganisms adapt to extreme conditions, reshaping our understanding of the Arctic ecosystem.

Frederic Bertley, CEO of COSI and an expert in science communication, joins to explore the fascinating intersection of baseball and physics. He discusses how climate change is impacting gameplay, specifically increasing home run distances as pitch speeds rise. Bertley dives into the science of hitting home runs, emphasizing the importance of angle and energy transfer. He also highlights the significance of precision hitting over home runs, drawing intriguing parallels with academic success. It's a must-listen for sports fans and science enthusiasts alike!

Sarah Zhang, a health writer for The Atlantic, dives into the unexpected twists of the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on how early predictions about the virus's mutation rate were fundamentally wrong. She reveals the plethora of mutations that emerged post-vaccine rollout and discusses the unique adaptations of the Omicron variant, which enabled it to dodge immune responses. The conversation sheds light on viral evolution and its future implications, particularly in tracking infections in immunocompromised individuals and enhancing disease surveillance.

Ever diagnosed yourself with a mental health disorder after watching TikTok? You're not alone! The discussion dives into the rise of ADHD representation on social media, revealing the pitfalls of self-diagnosis from viral videos. From there, the conversation shifts to fascinating studies on parakeets, uncovering brain activity that parallels human speech production. They also explore the role of animal communication in understanding human speech, linking innovative research to how we perceive mental health.

Ever wondered what's really in your lotions and shampoos? This podcast delves into the murky waters of personal care product safety. Discover the alarming lack of regulation by the FDA and the potential health risks posed by common ingredients like parabens and phthalates. Experts discuss the realities of ingredient labeling, guiding you on how to choose safer options. Tune in to learn how to audit your favorite products for harmful chemicals and consider paraben-free alternatives for better health.

Maria Godoy, NPR's health correspondent, shares critical insights into the recent measles outbreak, highlighting its extreme contagion—more infectious than even COVID-19. She discusses the alarming decline in vaccination rates contributing to this situation, particularly in West Texas. Godoy outlines symptoms and essential safety measures for communities at risk. The conversation also addresses the vital role of vaccination and the need to counteract misinformation surrounding vaccine safety and prevention.