Radiolab

Simon Adler, a producer and reporter with a focus on drone warfare, dives into the surprising resilience of Ukraine in the ongoing conflict. He discusses the revolutionary use of commercial drones on the battlefield, transforming them from mere gadgets to critical tools for tactical advantage. The episode explores the emotional dilemmas faced by soldiers seeing their enemies up close, questioning whether this visibility fosters empathy or desensitization. Adler also raises thought-provoking concerns about the future of autonomous drones in warfare.

Jason De León, an anthropologist known for his research on migrant deaths in the Sonoran Desert, shares chilling insights about the human cost of border policies. He recounts the haunting discovery of a woman's body, Maricela, during his fieldwork and the emotional journey to connect with her family. The podcast explores the profound impact of U.S. immigration deterrence strategies on individual lives, delving into stories of loss, resilience, and the sacrifices made by migrants seeking a better future.

Silvestre Reyes, former Border Patrol chief in El Paso, shares insights on the controversial Operation Hold the Line, a significant policy shift in border enforcement. Jason De León discusses the grim reality of migrant deaths in the Sonoran Desert, tracing the rise in fatalities to harsh border policies. Doris Meissner reflects on the political climate influencing immigration policies during the Clinton administration. Together, they uncover the human stories behind border enforcement, ethical dilemmas, and the urgent need for reform.

In this thought-provoking discussion, anthropologist Jason De León shares his shocking discovery of a human arm in the Sonoran Desert while investigating migrant deaths. He explores how U.S. Border Patrol's 'Prevention Through Deterrence' policy has led to a tragic rise in fatalities since the late 1990s. Joined by Radiolab reporter Tracy Hunt, they narrate powerful stories from the border, shedding light on the harrowing experiences of those crossing in search of a better life, and the complex effects these policies have on communities.

Sindhu Gnanasambandan, an innovative producer, embarks on a quest to make a week feel like two, aiming for a richer life experience. She discusses how our perception of time can be stretched through memorable moments and new experiences. By recounting an adventurous week filled with surfing and moonrise escapades, Sindhu reveals how joy and nostalgia affect our sense of time. She emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in appreciating everyday moments, encouraging listeners to break free from routine and see beauty in the mundane.

In this engaging discussion, reporter Brena Farrell, who dives into her experiences as a new mom, shares a harrowing yet relatable story of her frantic call to poison control when her young son had an accident with diaper ointment. She explores the fascinating history of poisons and the evolution of poison control in America, highlighting the importance of this safety net. The conversation also uncovers the hidden dangers in everyday products and the emotional toll of parenting, all while emphasizing the comforting role of poison control as a trusted resource during crises.

Hank Green, a passionate environmentalist and renowned science educator behind SciShow and Crash Course, discusses the alarming climate situations of summer 2023. He highlights how the reduction of sulfurous smog from cargo ships might have unexpectedly warmed ocean waters. Hank shares insights on balancing fear and hope in addressing climate change. He dives into the intriguing yet contentious topic of geoengineering, exploring its risks and ethical dilemmas while emphasizing the need for collective action amidst ongoing environmental challenges.

Moral dilemmas collide with technology as the age-old Trolley Problem is reexamined in the context of driverless vehicles. Can a machine make life-or-death decisions? Explore the ethical complexities facing programmers and the emotional struggle involved in these choices. The discussion highlights the impact of automation on society, including potential job loss and innovative possibilities. Neuroscience sheds light on how our brains adapt in life's moral quandaries, making us question our instincts and learnings in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

In this engaging discussion, Matt Kielty, a Radiolab reporter, delves into the compelling origins of the 'born this way' idea alongside Dean Hamer, a geneticist known for his research on a potential genetic link to male homosexuality, and Joanna Wuest, a political scholar exploring the historical context of this concept. They tackle the complexities of sexual orientation, the interplay of genetics and identity, and the societal implications of advocating for inherent traits. The conversation also reflects on evolving narratives within LGBTQ+ rights and the fluidity of attraction.

Diana Deutsch, a psychology professor specializing in sound and music, dives into the fascinating interplay between language and musicality. She reveals how certain languages enhance musical perception and discusses the phenomenon of perfect pitch, highlighting its cultural nuances. The conversation takes a turn to explore how sound serves as a tactile connection, shaping emotional responses. Finally, the tumultuous debut of Stravinsky's 'The Rite of Spring' is analyzed, illustrating how dissonance can provoke powerful reactions in listeners.