Radiolab

Maria Popova, writer and curator of 'The Universe in Verse,' takes listeners on a poetic journey through the cosmos. She explores the intersection of science and poetry, delving into themes like the singularity before the Big Bang and Emily Dickinson's deep connections to nature. The podcast highlights the inspiring story of a pioneering female astronomer and weaves together personal reflections with the legacy of poet Rebecca Elson, capturing the emotional ties we share with the universe through the beauty of language.

Robert Sapolsky, a Stanford neuroscientist known for his groundbreaking research on stress and baboon behavior, discusses the nature of violence through the lens of baboons, revealing how their social dynamics challenge our views on aggression. Former mayor Stu Rasmussen shares his journey as the first openly transgender mayor in the U.S., reflecting on the complexities of identity and community acceptance in Silverton, Oregon. Together, they explore how change is the only constant in defining what 'normal' truly is.

At any given moment, nearly 500,000 people are crammed together in a metal tube, hurtling through the air. In this episode, we look at the strange human experiment that is flying together. Special thanks to Natalie Compton, Julia Longoria, Mike Arnot, and everyone at Gate Gourmet.EPISODE CREDITS:  Reported by - Matt Kielty, Simon Adler and Rachael CusickProduced by - Matt Kielty, Simon Adler and Rachael CusickWith Production help from - Sindhu GnanasambandanOriginal music and sound design contributed by - Jeremy Bloomand mixing help from - Arianne WackFact-checking by - Natalie A. MiddletonEdited by  - Pat Walters CITATIONS:  Videos Lou Boyer, the animal-flying pilot from our episode, has a great plane-forward Instagram account (https://www.instagram.com/loub747/). As well as a whole YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@loub747/videos) dedicated to snakes and planes. (Luckily, not both at the same time.) Books Richard Foss's Food in the Air and Space: The Surprising History of Food and Drink in the Skies (https://zpr.io/KZyTPJkSENVq) Michael Heller's and James Salzman's Mine: How the Hidden Rules of Ownership Control our Lives (https://www.minethebook.com/)CHECK OUT:The Death, Sex and Money series Estrangement (https://www.wnycstudios.org/podcasts/deathsexmoney/projects/estrangement)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.  

Soren Wheeler, Editor for Radiolab, dives into the controversial concept of jury nullification, a hidden power in the U.S. legal system. He discusses whether jurors should have the right to ignore laws they feel are unjust. The conversation navigates the historic significance of this practice, highlighting its role in pivotal legal cases and social justice movements. From the emotional toll on jurors to the racial divides in perceptions of justice, Wheeler and reporter Tracie Hunte explore the delicate balance between law and personal morality.

Join mathematician Steven Strogatz, a professor at Cornell University, as he dives into a philosophical and mathematical inquiry sparked by a listener's question about the 'most average size' in the universe. They explore the fascinating concept of scale, wrestling with everything from the minuscule world of atoms to the grandeur of galaxies. Strogatz uncovers that the midpoint may actually relate to a large eukaryotic cell. This thought-provoking conversation highlights how mathematics intersects with our understanding of existence and identity.

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.