Radiolab

Tracie Hunte, a reporter investigating AIDS activism, is joined by Peter Staley, a long-time AIDS and LGBTQ rights activist known for his role in ACT UP. They discuss the profound grief and anger that fueled activism during the AIDS crisis, recounting powerful protests and the creation of the AIDS quilt. Hunte's investigation reveals how these activists confronted a passive government and fought for change amidst loss. The emotional intertwining of personal narratives and collective action showcases a pivotal moment in history that resonates today.

The discussion dives into the surprising significance of the Baker v. Carr case and its ripple effects on the Supreme Court. It reveals how the case strained justices, leading to personal crises and pivotal changes in judicial philosophy. The hosts examine Earl Warren's legacy and the growing politicization of the judiciary, as well as the challenges faced by justices grappling with high-stakes decisions. Mental health struggles within the court are candidly explored, showcasing the human side of legal challenges and their far-reaching impact on American democracy.

Dive into the captivating world of a legendary voice actor whose talent brought iconic characters like Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck to life. Hear a heartfelt story of resilience as his son shares how his father's persona became a lifeline during a coma. Explore the powerful connection between memory and performance, showcasing the enduring impact of creativity even after trauma. This episode also reflects on love and legacy, marked by an emotional hospital visit that underscores the deep bonds between father and son.

Heather Radke, a contributing editor and author of "Butts: A Backstory," reveals the fascinating cultural and historical significance of buttocks. She discusses the eugenics movement of the 1930s, showcasing a contest aimed at the 'most normal girl' and how societal norms shape our identities. The conversation navigates the perplexities of clothing sizes, highlighting the garment industry's influence on body image. With a mix of humor and insight, Radke challenges listeners to rethink standards of beauty and embrace body acceptance.

This hour, we dive into the messy mystery in the middle of us. What's going on down there? And what can the rumblings deep in our bellies tell us about ourselves?  We join author Mary Roach and reach inside a live cow's stomach. Talk with writer Frederick Kaufman about our first peek into the wonderful world of human digestion that came about thanks to a hunting accident. And explore with show regular, science writer, and fellow water drinker, Carl Zimmer, about the trillions of microscopic creatures that keep us regulated, physically, but also, maybe, emotionally and spiritually. Our 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.

In this insightful discussion, Karen Clark, a trailblazer who created the first predictive hurricane computer model, shares her journey and its impact on the insurance industry. She highlights the importance of accurate weather forecasting, its historical significance, especially during D-Day, and the challenges of predicting climate change's effects. The conversation reveals how innovations in weather data, particularly through technology, are transforming our understanding and response to increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.

In this engaging discussion, Jesse Cox, grandson of renowned British radio entertainers Leslie and Sidney Pittington, explores the enchanting legacy of his grandparents. He shares their unique brand of entertainment, blending magic with storytelling. The conversation also unfolds themes of metamorphosis, prompting deep reflections on the nature of identity and consciousness. From the secrets of magic to the emotional depth of family history, listeners are invited to ponder the magic of perception and the mysteries that lie within the black boxes of life.

Avir Mitra, an ER doctor, teams up with Dr. Laura MacIsaac, a leading gynecologist, to discuss the evolving landscape of abortion care. They highlight how advancements in medication like misoprostol and mifepristone are changing the way abortions are administered. Avir was surprised by Laura's insights into progress, rather than despair, surrounding abortion practices. The duo also explores the impact of telehealth on access, especially during the pandemic, and emphasizes the importance of self-managed abortions as a key aspect of reproductive healthcare.

David Byrne, the iconic frontman of Talking Heads, teams up with neuroscientist Thalia Wheatley to explore the complexities of human perception in a fascinating discussion. They delve into Byrne's immersive 'Theater of the Mind,' challenging audiences' reality through art and science. From auditory experiments that manipulate sound perception to the intriguing dynamics of human interaction and synchronized minds, they uncover how our identities shape our experiences. Ultimately, they celebrate the transformative power of collaboration and the joy of embracing change.

Sheri Fink, an award-winning New York Times reporter and author of "Five Days at Memorial," dives into the profound ethical dilemmas of triage in crises. She shares harrowing accounts from Hurricane Katrina and other disasters, confronting the heart-wrenching choices medical professionals face when resources dwindle. Fink explores the emotional weight of deciding who lives and dies amidst chaos, illustrating how these decisions resonate in both historical and contemporary contexts. The discussion challenges listeners to ponder morality in life-and-death situations.