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.

Curiosity takes center stage as listeners explore the joy of asking life's big and little questions. Hear a whimsical story of a rain-soaked wedding DJ and a family's mysterious encounter with a glowing orb during a storm. Delve into dragon myths and their emotional significance across cultures, while also laughing at quirky marital memes. Discover the science behind milking humor and microwave sparks, all while contemplating how unique environments shape our experiences. It's a delightful mix of personal tales and scientific inquiry!

Jody and Jay Upright provide firsthand accounts of the chaotic aftermath of a catastrophic flight crash in Nebraska. Heather Talbott shares the intense challenges faced when medical help was urgently needed. Dr. Ron Simon and Dr. Paul Collicott discuss how the incident led to revolutionary changes in emergency response protocols. The conversation explores the creation of the ABCs of trauma care, the emotional turmoil for families during crises, and the delicate balance between robotic precision and human empathy in emergency medicine.

Dive into the complex journey of the Second Amendment, from its obscure origins to its current explosive relevance. Discover how the Black Panthers influenced the gun rights movement and the NRA's dramatic evolution into a political powerhouse. Explore key court cases that shaped perceptions, especially the pivotal District of Columbia v. Heller. The discussion delves into personal narratives of those affected by gun laws and the ongoing debate over individual rights versus government control. It's a thought-provoking look at America's fraught relationship with firearms.

In the midst of intense wildfires, a doctor grapples with strange infections in burn patients while an ecologist studies the smoke. Both uncover startling links between smoke and microbial mysteries. The narrative reveals how smoke harbors fungi that affect health and the environment, sparking important questions about ecological adaptation and public health. Personal anecdotes intertwine with groundbreaking scientific exploration, shining light on the dark complexities of fire and its unexpected consequences.

Sleep is a universal puzzle, explored through fascinating cases like iguanas sleeping with one eye open and dolphins using unihemispheric sleep. The podcast dives into the dark side of slumber, revealing stories of sleep disturbances and their dangers. Parenting challenges during sleep deprivation are poignantly addressed, showing the emotional toll on family life. The connection between sleep, dreams, and memory is highlighted, showcasing how rest impacts both creativity and cognitive function. It’s a captivating investigation into the vital role of sleep in our lives.

Ed is a park ranger celebrated for uncovering the secret life of bald eagles. He shares the fascinating dynamics of a unique eagle family featuring two fathers, Valor 1 and Valor 2, who nurture their eaglets through courage and teamwork. The conversation highlights surprising eagle behaviors, their cultural significance in America, and the joy of observing nature via a webcam. Ed also entertains with humorous anecdotes on bold mice claiming nests, stirring intrigue for wildlife enthusiasts and educators alike.

Exploring a badminton match where players strategically try to lose, the podcast delves into the ethical dilemmas of intentional losses in sports. It also covers the impact of social media on mental health and the chaos of prize systems in the history of Olympic medals.