Unexplainable

In a daring experiment, Wall Street Journal reporter Jeff Horwitz steps into the wild world of poison oak, seeking to answer a bizarre question: can eating it build immunity? He shares his hilarious and harrowing foraging escapades, showcasing the skin reactions that accompany his unconventional method. Joined by Mahmoud ElSohly, they dive into the history and challenges of poison oak treatments, reflecting on both personal anecdotes and scientific insights. Together, they explore the absurd lengths some go to in the pursuit of immunity and relief.

Alycia Smith, a deep sea ecologist at Heriot-Watt University, reveals groundbreaking research about 'dark oxygen' being generated without sunlight on the ocean floor. This finding could revolutionize our understanding of life on Earth and beyond. The discussion shifts to the role of deep-sea nodules in oxygen production and the environmental risks associated with their extraction. Smith emphasizes the need for further scientific exploration amidst corporate interests, shedding light on the fragile balance of our ocean ecosystems.

Paul Doherty, a search and rescue researcher, discusses the evolution of finding lost individuals in the wilderness using digital maps and data analysis. He shares insights from analyzing over 300,000 missing persons cases, revealing distinct behaviors critical to search strategies. The conversation highlights the blend of traditional methods and innovative technology in rescue missions. Additionally, the emotional toll on families and the importance of learning from past cases to enhance efficiency in searches are emphasized.

In this engaging conversation, Nicola Twilley, host of the Gastropod podcast and author of "Frostbite," dives into the fascinating world of phage therapy. She discusses the rise of antibiotic-resistant infections and how phages—viruses that target bacteria—may be the key to combating this crisis. Twilley shares compelling stories, including a young man's battle with a drug-resistant infection, while highlighting the promise and challenges of integrating phage therapy into modern medicine. The discussion also touches on the ecological importance of understanding viral dark matter.

Delve into the fascinating world of bacteriophages, viruses that target bacteria and are essential to our microbiome. Discover how phages can serve as alternatives to antibiotics and their surprising role in coral health. Learn about the newly found mucosal layers in our intestines and lungs that protect us against harmful bacteria with the help of phages. Explore groundbreaking research on their potential to combat antibiotic resistance and improve conditions like cystic fibrosis. Stay tuned for upcoming discussions on the intersection of phage research and history.

Explore the shift of MDMA from a party drug to a potential PTSD treatment as the FDA gears up for a landmark decision. Hear moving personal stories from veterans grappling with trauma and their journey through MDMA-assisted therapy. Discover the passionate advocacy efforts driving change amid political hurdles. The evolving views on psychedelics reveal the complexities of mental health and drug policies, shedding light on a powerful new path to healing.

Dinosaurs may not have roared like lions; instead, their sounds were likely much weirder and more complex. Scientists are piecing together ancient vocalizations using fossil evidence, despite the challenges posed by the lack of sound-producing structures. Unique dinosaurs like Parasaurolophus might have communicated in ways Hollywood doesn’t portray. Innovative sound design techniques are employed to recreate these sounds, drawing inspiration from modern animals. The podcast also dissects how popular media often misrepresents dinosaur sounds, blending creativity with scientific inquiry.

James Beacham, a particle physicist at CERN, discusses the intriguing possibility of our universe existing inside a black hole. The conversation explores building a giant collider around the moon to investigate this theory. Topics also include gravity, multiverse, and the creation of miniature black holes in labs.

Beth Linker, author of 'Slouch: Posture Panic in Modern America', explores the historical perspectives on good posture and health. She challenges the common belief that good posture leads to good health, highlighting shifts in perceptions over time. The podcast delves into the evolution of ideas surrounding posture, the cultural influences on this concept, and the myth of good posture's correlation with back pain.

Dr. Andrew Gallup discusses the mysteries of yawning, including its contagious nature, role in brain temperature regulation, and evolutionary history across different species. The podcast challenges misconceptions about yawning, explores its medical implications, and highlights its benefits for cognitive functioning and social bonding.