Radiolab

Exploring stories of bravery, the podcast delves into individuals who defied their groups for conscience. From Sophie Scholl's resistance to Martin Luther King Jr.'s complexities, the episode highlights sacrifices and courage in the face of tyranny and oppression.

Freya Harrison, a research fellow at the University of Nottingham, blends her expertise in bacterial evolution and Anglo-Saxon history in a captivating exploration. She and a historian dive into ancient remedies, revealing a 1000-year-old medical text and its peculiar treatments. Their refreshing dialogue blends humor and insight as they tackle antibiotic resistance. A surprising culinary experiment with an ancient recipe proves effective against staphylococcus bacteria, raising intriguing questions about the intersection of old and modern medicine.

Discover the fascinating journey behind 988, a mental health hotline meant to provide support but often leaves callers in limbo with hold music. Hear about the pioneers of suicide prevention and the innovative minds tackling the challenges of response times. Explore how hold music is not just background noise but crucial in shaping a comforting experience. Dive into personal stories of resilience, creativity, and the healing power of connection as we unravel the complexities of mental health support in this impactful narrative.

Join Dan Engber, a science writer known for his critiques of animal intelligence research, and Laurel Braitman, an expert on sperm whale social structures. They are joined by Tracy Clayton, who boldly defends the smarts of crows, and comedian Jordan Mendoza, who champions slime molds. The lively discussion covers the emotional intelligence of animals, hilarious competitions between species like raccoons and quokkas, and thought-provoking insights into how we define intelligence. Prepare for an entertaining showdown to crown the world's smartest animal!

Maria Paz Gutiérrez tackles the universal truth of death with a mix of humor and philosophy. A chess match with Death sparks deep reflections on mortality and the unpredictability of life. The paradox of aging is explored, comparing humans to aging vehicles while questioning identity. Cellular fragility and the quest for longevity reveal nature's marvels, including the immortal jellyfish. The podcast balances the allure of immortality with the richness of fleeting experiences, emphasizing the profound connection between life and death.

In this intriguing discussion, Rachel Cusick, a co-reporter, dives into her investigation of Einstein's brain, which was taken against his wishes. Stephen Levy shares his experiences uncovering its whereabouts, while Thomas Harvey, the pathologist, recounts the ethical dilemmas of preserving Einstein's brain. Katrina Haslip offers a unique perspective on resilience in the face of AIDS activism within women's prisons. Together, they explore the complex legacy of Einstein’s intellect, the science behind genius, and the human stories intertwined with it.

The puzzling name 'Zoozve' sparks a whimsical exploration of celestial misnomers. A humorous mix-up leads to a deeper investigation of a quasi-moon's surprising orbit, showcasing the unpredictable nature of heavenly bodies. The conversation touches on the quirks of asteroid naming, including the creative chaos that comes with it. Listeners also get a taste of the excitement and tension in naming contests, revealing our collective desire for connection with the cosmos. Ultimately, it reflects on how we perceive our place in the universe.

Vivid storytelling reveals the power of radio in capturing intimate moments. The narrator shares a humorous yet emotional peek into the lives of a neighboring couple, sparking reflections on jealousy and freedom. Emotional observations of a young man in distress highlight themes of isolation and concern. The complexities of grief unfold as friends say goodbye to a loved one, revealing deep connections. Witnessing distant personal growth evokes protectiveness and admiration, culminating in a vibrant invitation to a live storytelling event.

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.