Unexplainable

Marlena Fejzo, a geneticist and Research Director at the HER Foundation, dives into the intriguing world of hyperemesis gravidarum. She discusses the genetic factors behind extreme pregnancy nausea and how misconceptions have shaped perceptions of morning sickness. Listeners are taken on a historical journey, exposing the medical myths surrounding nausea and the emotional toll it takes on expectant parents. The exploration of a gene linked to severe vomiting reveals unexpected scientific breakthroughs while challenging outdated beliefs about this common condition.

Rob Dunn, an ecologist at NC State University and author of 'Never Home Alone', explores the hidden worlds of bugs in our homes. He reveals the surprising ecological importance of household pests, urging us to view them as valuable ecosystem players rather than mere nuisances. The fascinating camel cricket is highlighted, showcasing its unique traits and contributions to the environment. Dunn also delves into how our living spaces harbor rich biodiversity and even connects household insects to intriguing smells from the International Space Station.

In this engaging discussion, Francis Collins, the former director of the NIH and a pivotal figure behind the Human Genome Project and COVID vaccine development, shares his reasons for resigning from a position of influence in science. He reflects on the crucial need for adaptability in research amidst political pressures and funding cuts. Collins dives deep into the challenges of vaccine hesitancy, emphasizing the delicate balance between faith and science. He also addresses shifting public trust and the future of biomedical research in a complex world.

Adam Richman, a perfusionist at the Mayo Clinic and dedicated Unexplainable listener, delves into the evolving definition of death shaped by medical technology. He explores the complexities of brain death and advanced surgical techniques, shedding light on the critical role of temperature management during procedures. Richman also discusses the ethical dilemmas we face in life support scenarios, revealing the intricate balance between life and death. His insights challenge our traditional perceptions and highlight the miraculous nature of modern medicine.

Rae Robertson-Anderson, a physics professor at UC San Diego and soft matter expert, explores the curious world of everyday materials like yogurt and ranch dressing. She explains how these substances behave like both solids and liquids, challenging our understanding. The discussion dives into the role of soft matter in biological systems, inspiring innovations like dynamic bulletproof vests and self-healing materials. Rae's light-hearted analogies and insights invite listeners to appreciate the science behind everyday wonders and the mysteries of life.

Stephon Alexander, a theoretical physicist at Brown University and a jazz musician, explores the fascinating relationship between music and the cosmos. He discusses how vibrations shape both the universe and musical expression. Delving into concepts like the inflaton field and multiverse theory, he likens the universe to a self-playing instrument and draws parallels between jazz improvisation and scientific inquiry. Alexander also reflects on the fine-tuning of the cosmos and how creativity merges science and philosophy, highlighting their interconnectedness.

Doyne Farmer, a physicist and Director of Complexity Economics at Oxford, delves into the fascinating world of roulette. He explains how physics can be applied to beat the game, arguing that winning might be more about calculation than luck. The discussion ventures into the chaos theory behind roulette mechanics and shares thrilling heist narratives showcasing strategic risks. Farmer also explores how these techniques translate to financial markets, enhancing trading outcomes through scientific predictions.

Umair Irfan, a Vox climate science correspondent, sheds light on the complex interplay between climate change and hurricanes. He discusses how warmer ocean temperatures might intensify storms while acknowledging the challenges in firmly linking human influence to hurricane frequency and severity. Irfan highlights the critical role of NOAA’s funding cuts on hurricane forecasting and examines the uncertainties surrounding climate change's impact on storm behavior. This conversation reveals the intricate factors at play in understanding our changing climate and its effects.

Emily Oster, a professor of economics at Brown University and CEO of ParentData, dives into the hot-button issue of fluoride in drinking water. She discusses the polarized views on fluoride's risks versus its dental benefits and the difficulties in reaching consensus in public health debates. Oster reflects on the historical context of fluoride, the challenges in communicating effectively about public health, and the necessity of addressing public concerns in a transparent manner. The conversation navigates fears, misinformation, and the importance of trust in health communication.

Benji Jones, Vox's environmental correspondent, along with Sam England from Berlin's National History Museum, dives into the quirky world of butterflies and static electricity. They discuss the innovative and whimsical experiments that involve walking butterflies on leashes to study the role of electrostatics in pollination. The conversation reveals how these fascinating insects interact with their environment in ways that are vastly different from humans, blending humor with groundbreaking scientific inquiry. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of creative methodologies in advancing ecological research.