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Ryan Broderick, a writer and host, dives into the quirky world of Dubai chocolate and its cultural ripple effects. He brilliantly traces its origins to a craving, while exploring how Chinese social media trends are reshaping American culture. The conversation touches on the power of aesthetics in viral food content, the evolution of video consumption, and the challenges Gen Z faces with authenticity online. Broderick’s insights uncover the fascinating connections between niche trends and mainstream society.

Emily Oster, an economist from Brown University, known for her insightful take on parenting and health, dives into the hot debate over microplastics. She discusses historical health fears and how societal anxieties evolve over time. The conversation highlights the fine line parents walk between reasonable caution and overwhelming worry. Exploring the dual nature of plastic, she emphasizes the need for a balanced perspective on health risks, encouraging listeners to focus on significant threats while advocating for collective action against pollution.

In this engaging conversation, Zvika Krieger, a rabbi and leader of a progressive Jewish community, shares his fascinating journey from Orthodox roots in L.A. to exploring spirituality in Silicon Valley. He dives deep into how personal experiences shape one's faith and the ethical dilemmas faced in the tech world. Zvika discusses the complexities of defining God, the spiritual significance of mindfulness, and the importance of connection. The dialogue is filled with reflections on prayer, existential questions, and the dynamic nature of belief, making it an enlightening exploration of faith.

Joining the discussion is Peter Mara, Dean of the Earth Commons at Georgetown University, and co-author of 'Cat Wars.' The podcast dives into the controversial clash between cat lovers and bird conservationists. Mara explores the ecological impact of feral cats, from their role in disease transmission to their predation on birds. The conversation challenges listeners to consider responsible pet ownership and the urgency of bird conservation, emphasizing empathy amidst the heated debate surrounding this cuddly yet problematic species.

In this conversation, Bianca Harris, a trained pulmonary and critical care physician, shares her journey with ADHD medications and the impact of her childhood brain tumor. She reflects on the challenges of self-identity and pain recognition while navigating a medical career. The discussion unveils the underdiagnosis of ADHD in women and the transformative effects of stimulant medications. Bianca candidly explores the emotional complexities of medication reliance, personal growth, and the critical importance of individual agency in health decisions.

Nicholas Rasmussen, a historian specializing in the history of drugs and author of 'On Speed', shares a compelling narrative about the rise and fall of amphetamines in America. He reflects on his personal journey with ADHD and the transformative role of prescription stimulants. The discussion reveals how amphetamines evolved from little-known medications to societal staples, their use in WWII, and the cultural shift towards cocaine in the 1970s. Rasmussen also explores the implications of ADHD diagnoses and the complexities surrounding long-term medication use.

Dan Harris, author of "10% Happier" and host of its namesake podcast, dives into the fascinating intersection of skepticism and psychic phenomena. He shares his humorous journey from journalism to mindfulness, reflecting on transformative Buddhist teachings. Harris reveals how a chance meeting with a psychic sparked curiosity about the unseen, addressing both his skepticism and evolving beliefs. The discussion highlights the complexities of spirituality, personal growth, and the importance of embracing uncertainty in understanding our existence.

Queer Eye’s Antoni Porowski questions the safety of coffee served on airplanes, sparking a playful yet alarming discussion about onboard hygiene. The hosts share juicy anecdotes about health scares and the questionable quality of airplane water. They highlight shocking truths about infrequent cleaning of beverage systems and the presence of harmful bacteria. Expert insights reveal contrasting safety standards between home and airline water. Join them for a humorous yet eye-opening look at your next in-flight brew!

Amanda Hess, a New York Times critic and author of 'Second Life, Having a Child in the Digital Age', dives into her emotional journey through pregnancy in the digital era. She reflects on the anxiety and obsessive information-seeking triggered by medical events. Hess discusses the blend of superstitions and technology, revealing how pregnancy trackers shape our experiences. She candidly navigates the fear of genetic disorders and the quest for acceptance, ultimately shedding light on the joys and struggles of motherhood amidst uncertainty.

Reporter Garrott Graham shares a unique journey where a high school teacher prompts his skeptical students to delve into the motives behind an international yogurt brand. They uncover cultural differences in dairy consumption, exploring how French kids relate to yogurt compared to their American counterparts. The teens challenge a yogurt executive regarding sustainability claims, sparking a lively debate on corporate responsibility. With a blend of humor and critical thinking, they showcase the importance of engaging education and the quest for deeper understanding.