Radiolab

David Fajgenbaum, a doctor and professor at the University of Pennsylvania, shares his incredible journey of surviving idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease by finding his own cure. He discusses the flaws in current drug discovery processes and introduces his AI-driven tool that aims to connect untreatable diseases with potential treatments. The conversation highlights the challenges of navigating pharmaceuticals, the importance of personalized care, and the ethical implications of using technology in medicine, particularly in life-or-death situations.

A journey to Michigan reveals the beautiful yet complicated world of the endangered Kirtland’s warbler. The fight against invasive cowbirds leads to heartbreaking consequences and raises ethical dilemmas about conservation. A tragic prescribed burn that spirals out of control opens a debate on the value of human life versus the life of a species. Through personal stories, the podcast explores the emotional toll of conservation efforts and the deep connections between people and nature, all while reflecting on loss and legacy.

Heather Radke, a contributing editor and insightful storyteller, discusses the surprising role of menopause in killer whales and chimpanzees. She reveals how older female whales support family pods post-reproduction, challenging traditional views of women's worth. Kevin Langergraber, a chimpanzee researcher, shares captivating insights on a post-reproductive chimp named Garbo, highlighting parallels in aging species. They explore the evolution of menopause, redefine female value, and celebrate the wisdom gained in later life.

Charity Woodrum, an extragalactic astronomer and NASA postdoctoral fellow, delves into the life and death of galaxies. She reveals the processes of galaxy quenching, exploring why some galaxies fade while others shine. Blending her grief over personal loss with cosmic phenomena, she shares how her journey through trauma parallels the struggle of dying galaxies. As she works with the James Webb Space Telescope, Charity reflects on mentorship, hope, and the cosmic connections that intertwine personal experiences with the universe.

Join Jim Holt, author of 'Why Does the World Exist?', as he dives into the perplexing nature of reality and matter. He and Robert Krulwich explore the mind-boggling concept that our world may be mostly nothing, challenging what we perceive as solid. The conversation spirals through philosophical debates about existence, raising questions about the essence of physical objects and the implications of multiple universes. Holt’s insights lead to a captivating blend of humor and deep existential inquiry.

Elie Mystal, a legal editor known for his incisive takes on social justice, dives into the contentious debate around free speech. He confronts the limits of the First Amendment in our digital era, weighing the necessity of government regulation against the importance of unrestricted expression. Mystal and his co-debaters tackle online hate speech, the responsibility of social media platforms, and the complexities of moderating content. Throughout the discussion, they reveal the tension between protecting civil liberties and ensuring public safety.

Marcelo Gleiser, a physicist from Dartmouth, dives into the fascinating world of symmetry and its role in our existence. He explores ancient philosophies about love and connection, revealing their ties to scientific concepts. Gleiser discusses how symmetry shapes our perception and the universe, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections and shared experiences. The conversation also touches on the intriguing imbalance of matter and antimatter, blending humor and profound insights that challenge our understanding of reality and identity.

Katie Thornton, a freelance journalist and creator of The Divided Dial, sheds light on the fascinating yet complex world of shortwave radio. She discusses its historical significance as a global communication tool and its transformation into a propaganda weapon. The conversation delves into the allure of late-night radio listening and the rise of amateur operators. Thornton also explores how shortwave became a platform for extremists and the parallels between its evolution and the internet's impact on politics today.

Dive into a tangled tale of love, betrayal, and legal drama! Discover how a jilted woman's quest for revenge led to a Supreme Court case that questions the balance of state and federal power. Explore the quirky connections between poison, duck hunts, and the U.S. Constitution. Tensions rise as the discussion shifts to the historical backdrop of hunting regulations and the ongoing debate about jurisdiction. It’s a fascinating look at personal motives intertwining with political frameworks!

Dive into the mysterious world of baby sharks and their remarkable reproductive methods, from viviparous to ovoviviparous births. Discover a passionate conservationist’s innovative efforts in Malta, including the thrilling find of a viable shark egg. Experience the emotional journey of nurturing shark embryos with AI's help, and witness the heartwarming release of a baby shark back into the ocean. Lastly, explore the shift in society's view of sharks, advocating for appreciation over fear, and uncover the vital role these creatures play in our ecosystems.