Radiolab

Heather Radke, a reporter and author of 'Butts', teams up with Matt Kielty, Radiolab producer, to dive deep into the fascinating world of the human posterior. They discuss its cultural history and evolutionary significance, revealing how our butts have played a role in what makes us human. The conversation takes a thrilling turn as they explore the 'Man Against Horse' race, showcasing an incredible personal story and the enduring competition between humans and horses in the rocky Arizona desert.

In this engaging discussion, former producer Rachael Cusick shares her unique perspective on Feynman's cataclysm sentence—what essential wisdom to pass on if all knowledge were lost. The conversation spans emotional farewells, the interplay of science and art, and the quest for humanity's legacy. Cusick reflects on childhood apocalyptic fears and their influence on growth, underscoring resilience and connection across generations. The dialogue weaves humor with profound insights, leaving listeners to ponder their own parting messages.

Julia Longoria, a reporter and new host of 'More Perfect,' dives into the complexities of U.S. citizenship as it relates to territories like Puerto Rico and American Samoa. She shares insights from her journey in covering landmark Supreme Court cases and highlights the unique identity challenges faced by American Samoans. Through engaging narratives, Julia explores community perspectives on citizenship, tradition, and belonging, shedding light on the intricate social and legal dynamics within these territories.

Sabrina Imbler, a columnist at Defector and author of "How Far the Light Reaches," dives into the wild side of marine life, focusing on peculiar creatures like the sand striker. Throughout the discussion, she weaves together scientific facts with personal stories, exploring complex themes of predation and human relationships. Imbler examines how animal behaviors reflect deeper issues around consent and trauma, encouraging a thoughtful dialogue on vulnerability. Her insights offer a unique perspective on the connections between the animal kingdom and human society.

In this engaging discussion, Manoush Zomorodi, the host of Note to Self, dives into the world of surveillance with Ross McNutt's groundbreaking technology. She explores the ethical implications of persistent surveillance, particularly its transition from military use in Iraq to urban crime prevention in cities like Dayton, Ohio. The conversation delves into critical questions about privacy, community safety, and the societal impact of advanced surveillance in volatile areas like Juarez, Mexico. These themes prompt a provocative examination of our future relationship with technology.

In the 1970s, scientists uncovered female seagull couples raising chicks together, challenging traditional views on homosexuality. This groundbreaking discovery opened up conversations about what is considered 'natural' in both animals and humans. The podcast discusses similar behaviors in other species and their connections to societal norms and LGBTQ+ rights. Personal stories illustrate the emotional impact of these findings on queer families, highlighting how nature can reflect and celebrate diverse identities.

Surya Bonaly, a groundbreaking French figure skater, defied norms in a sport often bound by tradition. She shares her journey from a rebellious athlete challenging racial biases to her unforgettable 1998 Olympic performance featuring an unprecedented move. Bonaly's outspoken nature and stunning athleticism created a stir, shaking the very foundations of figure skating. The discussion delves into the intense rivalry she faced, the evolution of judging criteria, and her lasting influence on future generations, especially for black athletes in the sport.

In this intriguing discussion, genealogist Nicka Sewell-Smith assists editor Alex Neason in unearthing her family history after discovering her grandfather's name was not what she thought. They explore the compelling significance of names and what they reveal about personal identity. Alex navigates through cemeteries and archives, digging into the mysteries of her lineage, including the challenges faced by African-American families in documenting their heritage. Emotions run high as they uncover powerful stories connecting past to present.

Nick Farrago and Karen Duffin, reporters uncovering hidden wartime stories, share fascinating insights from World War II. They discuss the eerie phenomenon of balloon bombs that silently drifted onto U.S. soil, causing chaos and fear. Karen elaborates on the complex lives of Nazi POWs, revealing their surprisingly humane treatment in America, which challenges conventional narratives. Together, they explore the moral dilemmas of wartime ethics, encouraging listeners to reflect on empathy and the human experience in the midst of conflict.

Dive into the fascinating realm of 'ologies' where quirky fields like Testudinology and Zymology are explored. Listen as a theoretical physicist unravels the mysteries of dark matter, revealing its significance in our universe. Engage with compelling anecdotes highlighting pivotal figures like Dr. Vera Rubin. The narrative also reflects on shifting theories in particle physics and the groundbreaking discovery of the Higgs boson. It’s a playful yet profound journey through the science that shapes our understanding of everything!