Lab rats face unexpected challenges, revealing that they might not be the best choice for scientific research. Discover innovative alternatives like organ-on-a-chip technology and organoids that could revolutionize drug testing. The conversation dives into ethical dilemmas and shifting paradigms in the quest for more humane options. Learn how recent legislative changes impact animal testing in drug trials, while the essential role of animal research in neuroscience remains crucial for understanding memory and disease mechanisms.

Dive into the fascinating world of handedness, where the mystery of why people are lefties or righties unfolds. Explore the complexities of spatial awareness and molecular chirality, illuminating the significance of left and right in nature. Discover groundbreaking research connecting handedness to the origins of life on Earth. Enjoy playful discussions, personal anecdotes, and the genetics behind our preferences. Plus, engage with fun songs and audience interactions that bring the science to life!

Brian Resnick, a former editor at Vox, delves into the surprising effectiveness of placebos, even when patients know they're receiving sugar pills. He discusses how this challenges traditional medical views, sparking debates on ethical implications. The conversation highlights open-label placebos, revealing that transparency can enhance healing. Resnick also explores the role of patient-doctor trust and the power of expectations in health outcomes. With a mix of humor and insight, they question if placebos should become a staple in modern medicine.

Mathias Clasen and Marc Andersen, co-directors of the Recreational Fear Lab at Aarhus University, dive into the thrill of horror. They explore why we both seek and avoid fear, discussing how haunted houses and roller coasters provide unique enjoyment. Their research reveals that mild fear can enhance curiosity and fun. They also highlight how horror can serve as a tool for stress management, especially during tough times like the COVID pandemic, suggesting therapeutic benefits in facing fear through storytelling.

Jonathan Lambert, a science journalist specializing in psychedelics and mental health, dives into the promising potential of substances like ecstasy and mushrooms in treating conditions such as PTSD and depression. He discusses the complexities of conducting unbiased clinical trials and the influence of participants’ knowledge on research outcomes. The conversation also emphasizes the vital role of therapeutic context, innovative study designs, and the need for a reevaluation of current research models to better understand the healing power of psychedelics.

Michael Gershon, a pathology professor at Columbia University, discusses the surprising connection between our gut health and emotional well-being. He explores how the gut microbiome affects mood and personality, suggesting that unseen microbial life might influence how we feel. Gershon examines fascinating studies linking gut bacteria to mental health issues like anxiety and depression. The conversation also touches on the potential of probiotics for enhancing mood, although they are not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Umair Irfan, a Vox correspondent, joins Joe Scuba, an insurance executive from New Orleans, and Carolyn Kuski from the Environmental Defense Fund, to explore the crisis in the insurance industry amid climate change. They discuss soaring premiums and the emotional toll on homeowners as properties become uninsurable. The conversation highlights the outdated risk models used by insurers, the dire need for policy reforms, and the potential for the insurance sector to invest in sustainable practices, offering a glimmer of hope amid the storm.

A groundbreaking exploration of using genetically modified pig organs for human transplants tackles the urgent organ shortage crisis. Hear about the pioneering surgeries that transplant pig hearts into dying patients, highlighting both medical advancements and personal journeys. Experts weigh in on the ethical dilemmas surrounding this practice, discussing the risks of disease transmission and the moral implications of using animals in medical research. This narrative captures the balance between innovation and ethical scrutiny in the quest for life-saving solutions.

Explore the critical state of climate change as scientists grapple with rising temperatures and the need for accurate climate modeling. Delve into the complexities of varied climate models and the controversial 'hot models' predicting drastic warming. The discussion includes solar geoengineering and its impacts, alongside recent shifts in evaluating climate predictions by experts. Finally, discover how navigating uncertainty requires collaboration and transparency in communicating future scenarios.

Join Wall Street Journal reporter Jeff Horwitz as he embarks on a wild experiment to see if eating poison oak can build tolerance. Hear about the outrageous consequences of foraging adventures and personal anecdotes that reveal the risks he took. Discover how this daring inquiry into allergens ties into the pursuit of scientific curiosity, blending humor and unexpected lessons. Jeff’s brave, if not reckless, journey sheds light on serious topics like digital security while maintaining a light-hearted approach to scientific exploration.