Unexplainable

Hillary Frank, host of The Longest Shortest Time, and Rachel E. Gross, science writer and author of Vagina Obscura, dive into the intriguing world of vaginas. They explore historical misconceptions surrounding female anatomy, including the clitoral structure and misguided medical practices. The conversation reveals surprising topics like the 'wandering womb' and new research into vaginal health. With humor and insight, they highlight the importance of understanding female pleasure, health, and the need for better research in women's reproductive systems.

Discover how childhood bedtime stories shape our narratives today. The whimsical tale of 'The Lorax' highlights nostalgia and environmental consciousness, linking personal memories with industrial change. Explore the life of a rabbi with mystical experiences and humorous lore, revealing profound insights from Talmudic stories. Delve into the enigma of dark energy, mixing scientific discovery with storytelling. The discussion also touches on innovation in production and the joy of communal traditions, rounding out a captivating exploration of life and meaning.

Two researchers debate whether a little alcohol is harmful, yet both acknowledge the challenges in getting clear answers. They discuss the complexities of alcohol research, highlighting often conflicting findings about its health effects. Personal stories emphasize moderation in a society where alcohol use is common. The conversation also explores the nuanced relationship between moderate drinking and heart health, calling for better research methodologies to discern the true impact of alcohol on well-being.

Richard Alley, a renowned geoscientist from Pennsylvania State University, dives into the secrets of the Camp Century ice core, linked to a U.S. Army project in the '50s. He reveals how this underground city holds a 100,000-year climate history and uncovers vital lessons about past environmental changes. The discussion highlights the implications of rising sea levels and the necessity for public investment in climate research, all while showcasing the thrill of scientific discovery and its relevance to our changing world.

In this enlightening discussion, Benji Jones, senior correspondent at Vox, unpacks the intriguing phenomenon of shrinking animal sizes, particularly among birds. He highlights how climate change is altering species adaptability and even envisions a future where ecosystems evolve post-humanity. The conversation also touches on the potential of introducing slime molds to Mars and the imaginative prospects of giant insects returning. It's a captivating exploration of evolution and the unpredictable future of life on Earth and beyond!

Adam Riess, a Nobel laureate and astrophysicist at Johns Hopkins University, dives into the mysteries of dark energy, the elusive force that dominates the universe. He discusses the emotional impact of our cosmic fears and how childhood nightmares about the universe's end conflict with groundbreaking scientific discoveries. Riess also explores new findings from the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument, challenging previous assumptions and calling into question the very fabric of cosmology. Get ready for a mind-bending journey through the cosmos!

Annie Lowrey, an Atlantic writer and author of *I Fought Plastic. Plastic Won*, discusses the pervasive role of plastic in our lives and its alarming health risks. She highlights the hidden dangers of microplastics, even in seemingly safe foods. Lowrey shares her personal quest to reduce plastic use while addressing the challenges involved in adopting a plastic-free lifestyle. The conversation also delves into practical tips for minimizing plastic intake and the urgent need for awareness about plastic's contamination in our bodies and environments.

Ton van der Bremer, an associate professor of environmental fluid mechanics, dives into the haunting mystery of rogue waves. He reveals how these towering giants can arise unexpectedly, shattering myths of folklore. The conversation explores the bizarre dynamics that allow smaller waves to collide and form these colossal forces, along with experimental attempts to replicate their behavior. With a blend of science and storytelling, Ton paints a vivid picture of the ocean's unpredictable nature and the challenges that come with predicting such phenomena.

In this captivating discussion, Bryan Walsh, senior editorial director at Vox and the voice behind the Good News newsletter, tackles the challenge of finding positivity in a sea of negativity. He explores why uplifting stories struggle to gain traction in the media and reveals surprising improvements in societal trends, like declining murder rates. The conversation also delves into the power of storytelling as a tool for resilience, urging listeners to embrace a more hopeful perspective amidst the chaos.

Richard Lenski and Zachary Blount, evolutionary biologists from Michigan State University, dive into the captivating world of bacterial evolution. They discuss their groundbreaking experiment creating 12 parallel universes of E. coli to observe unexpected evolutionary adaptations. Surprising convergences in traits challenge conventional notions of predictability in evolution. They also reveal a fascinating case of E. coli acquiring the rare ability to metabolize citrate, highlighting how randomness and historical events significantly shape evolutionary paths.