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Unexplainable

Latest episodes

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38 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 28min

Mysteries we can’t stop thinking about

Dive into captivating mysteries that challenge our understanding of identity and relationships with a deep look at microchimerism. Explore the urgent organ shortage crisis and innovative solutions like genetically modified pig organs. Discover the ethical dilemmas around transplanting these organs and the emotional intricacies faced by families. The discussion also ventures into the challenges of long-term space exploration, revealing what astronauts truly endure as humanity pushes the boundaries of the unknown.
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40 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 26min

Who let the wolves in?

Dogs were the first domesticated animal in history, emerging from wolves some 20,000 years ago. But how did wolves become dogs? To find the answer, scientists have to play with a lot of puppies. (First published in 2023.)Guest: Kathryn Lord, evolutionary biology researcher at UMass Chan Medical SchoolFor show transcripts, go to vox.com/unxtranscriptsFor more, go to vox.com/unexplainableAnd please email us! unexplainable@vox.comWe read every email.Support Unexplainable by becoming a Vox Member today: vox.com/members Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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38 snips
Dec 4, 2024 • 31min

Where to meet a Neanderthal

Neanderthals and early modern humans had quite the complicated relationship, with intriguing genetic links discovered. Fossil finds, like a baby tooth, reveal moments of coexistence between these groups. The podcast takes a journey through archaeological challenges, highlighting key sites that shed light on human evolution. Campfire soot offers clues to ancient lives, while the study of Neanderthal remains brings forth new scientific techniques revealing their mysteries. It's a captivating exploration of our prehistoric past!
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9 snips
Nov 20, 2024 • 23min

Pinky and the (lab-grown) Brain

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.
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15 snips
Nov 13, 2024 • 30min

Why are there lefties and righties?

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!
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29 snips
Nov 6, 2024 • 28min

Placebos work. Why?

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.
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8 snips
Oct 30, 2024 • 22min

Why is horror so fun?

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.
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12 snips
Oct 23, 2024 • 27min

Are psychedelics breaking science?

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.
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29 snips
Oct 16, 2024 • 30min

Your gut’s feelings

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.
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24 snips
Oct 9, 2024 • 31min

Is insurance doomed?

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.

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