Comedian and podcaster Michael Regilio brings his skeptical wit to the intriguing world of dreams. He discusses the biological functions of dreams, highlighting their roles in problem-solving and emotional processing. The conversation dives into common dream themes across cultures, linking them to evolutionary purposes. Regilio breaks down the four sleep phases, especially REM sleep, and its connection to vivid dreaming. He also touches on sleep disorders like REM Behavior Disorder and explores the possibilities of lucid dreaming, offering tips for enhancing this fascinating experience.

This week delves into confronting childhood abuse and navigating the complexities of seeking justice while protecting future victims. Personal growth takes center stage as someone adjusts to a partner's newfound independence, sparking discussions about communication and intimacy. Resilience shines through the story of a small business owner battling post-injury challenges. The importance of setting boundaries and supportive relationships is highlighted alongside powerful narratives of overcoming emotional devastation. Empathy and accountability remain key themes.

Nina Aouilk, co-founder of End Honour Killings and survivor of severe domestic abuse, brings a powerful voice to the fight against forced marriage and honor killings. She shares her harrowing experiences, including an attempted honor killing by her family. Nina discusses the alarming prevalence of these issues in Western nations, emphasizing cultural pressures that silence victims. The conversation sheds light on how everyone can help disrupt violent situations and support victims, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and advocacy in these critical matters.

Nina Aouilk, a co-founder of End Honour Killings, shares her harrowing story of surviving an abusive childhood marked by forced marriage and honor-based violence. She delves into the chilling realities of modern-day slavery within families, recounting how she was traded to one of her rapists. Nina's resilience shines through as she discusses witnessing brutal cultural practices like bride burnings while emphasizing the need for community support and gender reforms. Now, she empowers others to break free from cycles of abuse and reclaim their lives.

In this engaging discussion, neuroscientist Dr. Helena Hartmann from University Hospital Essen dives into the fascinating dynamics of placebo and nocebo effects. She explains how our beliefs and expectations can trigger real physiological changes, impacting health outcomes significantly. The conversation reveals that positive expectations can enhance recovery, while negative ones might exacerbate symptoms. Hartmann also highlights how social factors and treatment perceptions can influence effectiveness, challenging common misconceptions about these powerful psychological phenomena.

Diving into family dynamics, the hosts tackle the delicate situation of addressing a nephew's Holocaust denial while maintaining family ties. The conversation shifts to a mother contemplating whether to warn her ex’s new partner about his abusive history. A family physician grapples with financial sacrifices for a fulfilling career in lifestyle medicine. They also discuss the darker side of digital privacy, revealing the tricks of scammers. Humor blends with serious topics, offering a mix of insightful advice and relatable experiences.

Renee DiResta, an author and expert on disinformation, delves into how misinformation twists online discourse for real-world consequences. She highlights 'audience capture,' where creators amplify extreme views to please followers. DiResta explains tactics like 'flooding the zone' to confuse truth and the 'liar's dividend' that allows people to deny facts. She emphasizes the importance of media literacy to combat misinformation and nurture a healthier public dialogue. This insightful conversation challenges our perceptions in the digital age.

Dave Farina, author of 'Is This Wi-Fi Organic?' and host of 'Professor Dave Debate', dives into the world of generic drugs. He reveals that generics have the same active ingredients as brand-name drugs but are significantly cheaper due to lower development costs. Dave discusses the impact of drug patents, the regulatory role of the FDA, and the often-overlooked variations in inactive ingredients. Understanding these factors empowers consumers to make informed decisions and potentially save on prescription costs while navigating the complexities of the pharmaceutical industry.

Engagement tensions flare when a surprising prenup request raises red flags about commitment. The hosts delve into the emotional complexities surrounding trust and financial disparities. Alongside this, a listener grapples with betrayal after a charity event falls through, prompting questions of revenge versus finding peace. There's also a discussion about recognizing red flags in client relationships for a carpenter, offering strategies for maintaining professionalism without compromising instincts. Personal growth and open communication are key themes throughout.

Tu Lam, a Green Beret and former refugee from Vietnam, shares his extraordinary life story. He recalls his perilous escape from Vietnam at a young age amidst danger and adversity. Tu discusses the racism he faced growing up and how it fueled his determination to join the military, becoming a special forces operative. He opens up about battling PTSD and finding healing through psychedelics. Tu's journey illustrates the power of resilience and the importance of seeking help, inspiring listeners to confront their own challenges with courage.