Gül Dölen, a neuroscientist from UC Berkeley, dives into the fascinating world of critical periods in brain development. She reveals how certain life stages allow for rapid learning, akin to a sponge soaking up knowledge. Dölen discusses the groundbreaking potential of psychedelics like MDMA to reopen these critical windows, offering hope for PTSD recovery and even stroke rehabilitation. She makes captivating connections between childhood learning and adult mystical experiences, sparking curiosity about the brain's hidden abilities.

Explore the haunting journey of a man grappling with loneliness after losing his parents. He finds his childhood home filled with memories and a few ghostly surprises when paranormal investigators arrive. Delve into eerie encounters, as they attempt to communicate with spirits through flashlights, revealing emotional ties to the past. The narrative weaves nostalgia with the mysteries of the afterlife, ultimately leading to poignant revelations about lingering connections with loved ones who have passed.

In this captivating discussion, Canadian anthropologist and journalist Annie McKeown dives into the complex legacy of Senator Birch Bayh. They explore Bayh's groundbreaking efforts to abolish the Electoral College, revealing why past reforms failed despite public support. McKeown shares fascinating insights on the historical roots of the Electoral College and its implications for democracy today. The podcast also sheds light on the surprising alliances formed in the pursuit of electoral change, prompting listeners to reflect on the legitimacy of their vote.

Back in 2018, when this episode first aired, there was a feeling that democracy was on the ropes.  In the United States and abroad, citizens of democracies are feeling increasingly alienated, disaffected, and powerless.  Some are even asking themselves a question that feels almost too dangerous to say out loud: is democracy fundamentally broken?  Today on Radiolab, we ask a different question: how do we fix it?  We scrutinize one proposed tweak to the way we vote that could make politics in this country more representative, more moderate, and most shocking of all, more civil.  Could this one surprisingly do-able mathematical fix really turn political campaigning from a rude bloodsport to a campfire singalong? And even if we could do that, would we want to?Special thanks to Rob Richie (and everyone else at Fairvote), Don Saari, Diana Leygerman, Caroline Tolbert, Bobby Agee, Edward Still, Jim Blacksher, Allen Caton, Nikolas Bowie, John Hale, and Anna Luhrmann and the rest of the team at the Varieties of Democracy Institute in Sweden.And a very special thanks to Rick Pickren, for allowing us to use his rendition of State of Maine, Maine’s state anthem. Check that out, and all his other state anthems on Spotify or Youtube.EPISODE CREDITS: Reported by - Latif Nasser, Simon Adler, Sarah Qari, Suzie Lechtenberg and Tracie HunteProduced by - Simon Adler, Matt Kielty, Sarah Qari, and Suzie LechtenbergOriginal music and sound design contributed by - Simon AdlerOur newsletter comes out every Wednesday. It includes short essays, recommendations, and details about other ways to interact with the show. Sign up (https://radiolab.org/newsletter)!Radiolab is supported by listeners like you. Support Radiolab by becoming a member of The Lab (https://members.radiolab.org/) today.Follow our show on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @radiolab, and share your thoughts with us by emailing radiolab@wnyc.org.Leadership support for Radiolab’s science programming is provided by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Science Sandbox, a Simons Foundation Initiative, and the John Templeton Foundation. Foundational support for Radiolab was provided by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.

Brooke Gladstone, a seasoned journalist and host of On the Media, dives deep into the intriguing transformation of political scandals. She discusses how Gary Hart's 1987 affair marked a pivotal shift in media coverage. The conversation illuminates why sex scandals have lost their potency in contemporary politics and examines the ethical dilemmas journalists face when scrutinizing candidates' personal lives. Gladstone also reflects on the evolution of political discourse and how personal character has become central to reporting.

Amanda Thomson, a Scottish author and expert on tree ecosystems, takes listeners on a captivating journey exploring the hidden significance of tree stumps. She reveals how these seemingly simple remnants play crucial roles in supporting wildlife and preventing erosion. Through whimsical stories, she connects stumps to fascinating ecological interactions, including prairie falcons and survival tales. The discussion highlights the often-overlooked beauty in nature's remnants, igniting wonder about the mysteries of trees and their impact on our environment.

Bruce Robison, a renowned deep-sea expert, shares his captivating experience documenting an octopus known as 'Octomom.' He reveals how a simple act of motherhood transformed into an astonishing four-year saga of survival and sacrifice, as she selflessly guards her eggs without eating. The discussion explores her unique behaviors, the emotional weight of her vigil, and the fragility of marine life. Vivid descriptions of the deep-sea environment and insights into octopus intelligence highlight the extraordinary journey of this remarkable creature.

In this discussion, classicist Steven Tuck unravels the enigma of survival following the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Tuck challenges the myth that all Pompeiians perished, diving into archaeological evidence and personal accounts. He raises intriguing questions about potential survivors and their fates in the aftermath. Culinary expert Chef Samin Nosrat joins in, introducing the forgotten flavors of Roman fish sauce, garum, making the historical narrative deliciously relatable. Together, they paint a vivid picture of life, loss, and resilience in ancient times.

Join renowned paleontologist Neil Shubin, science communicator Emily Graslie, and natural science expert Paul Mayer as they delve into the fascinating world of ancient coral calendars and their surprising revelations about time. Discover how Earth's year was once over 40 days shorter, all thanks to a cosmic waltz with the moon. The discussion playfully explores time travel possibilities, including a humorous trip to Venus with Usain Bolt and a rooster. Prepare for mind-bending insights and a laugh as they challenge our understanding of time and nature.

Evan Ratliff, a veteran journalist, dives into a fascinating experiment where he gradually replaces himself with an AI voice clone. He explores the implications of this technology in everyday tasks, like making phone calls and even going to therapy. Each interaction reveals quirky outcomes, exposing both humorous and eerie sides of AI's role in our lives. The podcast raises ethical questions about identity and authenticity, as Evan's AI struggles to replicate genuine human connection amidst its digital mimicry.