Radiolab

Molly Webster, a former intern turned reporter, and Becca Bressler, a Radiolab producer with a quirky take on mosquito bites, dive into the fascinating world of human anatomy. They tackle humorous misconceptions about our bodies, like 'butt breathing,' and explore serious topics like the evolutionary quirks of our respiratory system. Listeners will enjoy insights into the bizarre fate of lotion on our skin and an unexpected remedy for mosquito bites, blending lighthearted banter with intriguing science.

Ann Klein-Sniper, a high school English teacher battling Parkinson's disease, shares her gripping tale of a medication-induced gambling addiction. Deb Nolan, a statistics professor, illustrates the gap between perceived and actual randomness with a captivating coin-flipping experiment. Together, they unravel the complexities of stochasticity in our lives, exploring fate, chance encounters, and the chaotic dance between randomness and human behavior. Their stories highlight how unpredictable forces shape our experiences and decisions.

Joining the discussion is Steve Strogatz, a Cornell mathematician renowned for his insights into mathematical concepts. He highlights the age-old taboo of dividing by zero, explaining not just its historical context but its philosophical implications. Listeners are taken on a journey through the evolution of mathematical thought, exploring imaginary numbers and the existential dilemmas they provoke. The conversation challenges perceptions of value and existence, leading to a thought-provoking examination of freedom in a mathematically surreal 'zero world'.

Dive into the emotional journey of understanding numbers and how they influence our lives. Explore innovative research on infant cognition that reveals babies' intuitive grasp of numerical concepts. Discover the captivating Benford's Law, which uncovers hidden stories through mundane numbers. Reflect on the bonds formed in the math community through Erdős numbers and personal narratives. Finally, enjoy a heartfelt blend of music and mathematics, exploring how they intertwine with memories and relationships.

Blair Bigham, an ICU doctor and author of "Death Interrupted," shares his compelling journey from saving lives to confronting the complexities of death. He reflects on the emotional toll of working in emergency medicine and the ethical dilemmas of end-of-life care. Bigham candidly discusses his father's terminal pancreatic cancer diagnosis, navigating the tension between his professional insights and personal grief. He emphasizes the importance of accepting the inevitability of death and the need for compassionate conversations about mortality.

Bob Milne, a renowned ragtime pianist celebrated for his astonishing multitasking abilities, joins reporter Jessica Benko, who has highlighted his unique talents. They discuss a daring challenge posed by a neurologist that tests musical complexity against cognitive limits. As Bob reveals his uncanny ability to play intricate pieces while interacting, they dive into the fascinating connection between music, memory, and emotion. This whimsical exploration showcases how some individuals, like Bob, defy conventional neurological expectations.

In this discussion, writer Patrick Burleigh shares his unique journey with precocious puberty, experiencing physical changes like a mustache in middle school due to a rare genetic mutation. He delves into the emotional challenges of early maturation, including bullying and identity struggles. Patrick reflects on the recklessness of adolescence and a life-changing moment that led him to Dartmouth College. The conversation also touches on how these experiences influence his writing and thoughts on parenthood, mixing humor with poignant insight into growing up too fast.

Science writer Carl Zimmer, known for his engaging storytelling on evolutionary biology, joins the hosts for a deep dive into the world of giant viruses. They discuss how these colossal microbes challenge conventional definitions of life and blur the lines between living and non-living entities. Zimmer reveals fascinating discoveries like Mimivirus and Pandora virus, leading to questions about evolution potentially going backwards. The conversation is sprinkled with humor and insights, making complex topics accessible and intriguing.

Join Jenn Brandel, a radio reporter deeply involved in investigative storytelling, and Neil Theis, a pioneering liver pathologist who uncovered the interstitium. They explore the groundbreaking discovery of this formerly invisible network of fluid channels that connects our organs. The discussion delves into how this finding could revolutionize our understanding of cancer and bridge Eastern and Western medical practices. They also highlight the remarkable implications for anatomy and health arising from advanced imaging techniques, merging tradition with modern science.

A nostalgic childhood encounter with President John F. Kennedy sparks curiosity about the lasting effects of a handshake. The podcast dives into the quirky science of microbial exchanges, exploring how bacteria are shared during handshakes and their implications in forensics and health. Light-hearted conversations reveal the humorous side of our relationships with microbes, including discussions on armpit smells. It combines personal stories with unexpected scientific insights, offering a fun and fascinating look at our invisible companions.