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Daniel Kolitz, a writer for Harper's Magazine, dives into the intriguing subculture of gooning, where young men bond over intense porn consumption. He shares his personal journey into this world, revealing the elaborate aesthetics of 'goon caves' and the fascinating dynamics of the community, including practices like 'wank battling.' Kolitz explores the implications of constant access to porn on youth sexuality and its connection to broader internet trends, shedding light on how these behaviors reflect our digital age.

Dan Wang, author and research fellow at the Hoover Institution, shares insights from his life in China and the contrasts with America. He reveals common misconceptions Americans have about China and discusses the country's rapid engineering prowess. Wang explains how China's governance relies on large-scale projects for legitimacy, while highlighting the U.S.'s legalistic approach that often hinders infrastructure. He advocates for a blended approach, suggesting the U.S. could benefit from more engineering focus while adopting stronger legal protections.

Pablo Torre, a journalist and host of 'Pablo Torre Finds Out,' delves into the bizarre MMA tickling scandal that shocked fans. He recounts the infamous fight between Mason Lewis and Tim Fargo, where foot-tickling became a surprising tactic. Torre discusses the cultural implications of such a seemingly ridiculous move, examining why it challenged MMA's serious image. With insights into the sport's evolution, Joe Rogan's influence, and fan reactions, the conversation highlights how a tickle could redefine strategies in mixed martial arts.

Casey Newton, a technology journalist and founder of Platformer, shares insights on OpenAI's new app, Sora, an AI-driven video platform reminiscent of TikTok. He explores the rapid rise of AI-generated content and the implications for social media dynamics. Casey discusses the innovative features of Sora, including its remix capabilities and engagement strategies. He also reflects on the ethical concerns around AI likenesses and predicts whether Sora can thrive in a competitive market, emphasizing the need for genuine connections in an AI-saturated world.

Terry Gross, the legendary host of Fresh Air, shares her journey through grief and creativity after losing her husband. In a heartfelt conversation with Sam Fragoso, she reflects on the power of autobiographical interviews and the nuance of connecting art with personal experience. Terry also recounts her early days in radio, the evolution of Fresh Air, and insights on public media's cultural significance. From hitchhiking adventures to profound wisdom about loss, she reveals how these experiences shaped her interviewing craft and life.

Nicholas Kulish, an investigative reporter for The New York Times, delves into the heated lawsuit surrounding 'The Pitt,' accused of being a copy of 'ER.' He explores the blurred lines between inspiration and copyright theft, sharing intriguing emails that hint at the creators' intentions. From Noah Wyle’s pitch for a darker take on his 'ER' character to the Crichton estate's protective measures, Kulish reveals how the case could reshape the future of medical dramas. Join him as he navigates this tangled web of creativity and legal challenges!

Alex Oliver, husband of the late Whitney, shares a harrowing and poignant story about grief and online harassment. After Whitney's sudden death, Alex discovers her obituary has been hijacked by conspiracy theorists, leading to abusive attacks on her legacy. He discusses the shocking involvement of anti-vaccine movements and the disturbing tactics of fringe platforms. Alex reflects on his legal battles against these trolls and honors Whitney's memory by highlighting her art career and their shared life, revealing the tragic intersection of love, loss, and misinformation.

Dive into a Bay Area community where a bold approach to parenthood unfolds. A member offers a prize for finding a mate, showcasing the quirky intersection of rationality and romance. Discover unconventional dating methods involving prediction markets and how social media reshapes relationships. The conversation touches on identity transformations from strict upbringings to modern careers, all while emphasizing the challenges of embracing failure and the search for truth in personal growth.

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.