Endless Thread

Riley Black, a science journalist and dinosaur expert, dives into the surprising connections between dinosaur emojis and contemporary social issues, particularly in the realm of trans rights. The discussion humorously highlights how these emojis have become symbols of identity, inclusion, and even controversy. Black reveals the vibrant intersection of paleontology and LGBTQ culture, while reflecting on the emoji's journey from political appropriation to a proud community emblem. Tune in for a fascinating exploration of digital symbols and their societal implications!

The hosts dive into viral rants from Reddit, tackling everything from the woes of modern home design to the quirky dynamics of escape rooms. They humorously critique how hard surfaces impact comfort in our living spaces, revealing a nostalgic longing for carpeted areas. The conversation takes a turn to explore family tensions during escape room adventures, showcasing both the stress and humor of teamwork. With wit and insight, they ponder how design trends affect our lives and the hilarious lessons that arise from rants.

Discover how the Find My app has transformed from a privacy concern to a social media tool among friends. Explore hilarious personal stories about college life and the ethical dilemmas of tracking friends. Uncover the evolution of location-based services, from the early days of Dodgeball to the practicality of modern apps. Delve into the balance of safety, privacy, and connection in our digital relationships, all while celebrating the community and belonging nurtured by sharing our whereabouts.

Todd Bookman, a reporter for New Hampshire Public Radio, dives into the captivating tale of Sergeant Tibbs, a 19-year-old cat who goes missing and stirs up a whirlwind of community emotions. He discusses how this incident reveals deeper issues of pet responsibility and neighborly conflicts. The investigation highlights the unexpected power of internet outrage and community activism. Through poignant stories of love and loss, Bookman uncovers what we owe our pets and our neighbors in times of crisis.

A conspiracy theory is heating up Reddit, claiming the platform is censoring posts linked to Luigi Mangione's controversial act. The humor in Luigi memes intertwined with a serious narrative raises eyebrows about online moderation. The hosts explore how 'nothing violent' captions reflect the absurdity of content policies. There's a deep dive into social media's evolving landscape, including reactions to Elon Musk's influence and Reddit's shifts in moderation. The podcast wraps up with an invitation for listener interaction, discussing ownership in business.

Kayla, a 24-year-old victim of deepfake pornography, shares her harrowing experience navigating the emotional fallout of having her images manipulated and shared online. She highlights the psychological turmoil faced by victims, particularly young women. The conversation delves into the urgent need for legal protections like the 'Take It Down' Act, while also exploring the challenges of identity in the digital age. Kayla's narrative weaves through themes of empowerment, parental love, and the dark reality of online harassment, making a compelling case for justice in today's cyber world.

Explore the unexpected journey of the Toyota Hilux from commercial truck to a key player in conflict zones. Discover firsthand accounts from those who faced battles while relying on this rugged vehicle. Learn about its durability and significance that made it the truck of choice among various military factions. Delve into the cultural fascination with the Hilux and its dual role in both civilian life and warfare, revealing why it's more than just a mode of transport but a symbol of resilience.

Todd Wallack, an investigative reporter for WBUR and former member of the Boston Globe Spotlight team, dives into the intricacies of responsibly leaking information to the press. He explores the implications of secure messaging apps like Signal in sensitive discussions among officials. Wallack discusses safeguarding sources, responsible communication, and the risks facing whistleblowers today. A fascinating debate on the intersection of journalism, safety, and legal repercussions unfolds, touching on the need for confidentiality in an evolving media landscape.

Adrián Simancas, a 23-year-old technology manager from Punta Arenas, Chile, shares his jaw-dropping encounter with a humpback whale during a kayaking trip. He describes the surreal moment of being engulfed by the creature, captured on video by his father, which quickly went viral. Adrián reflects on the thrill of unexpected adventures and the profound connection to nature that followed. He discusses the emotional aftermath of the event and how it reshaped his perspective on life, coaxing him towards new creative endeavors.

Last week, we introduced you to the wildly popular, albeit controversial, streamer and self-declared socialist Hasan Piker — what he’s all about, how he’s delivering his message to millions of followers, and who he’s reaching and resonating with. When we talked to him in November, Hasan had a lot to say about the Democratic Party, about the streaming platform Twitch, and about what’s further dividing Americans right now. So here's more of our conversation with him.