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A curious team ventures into the mystery of why chicken bones are scattered across urban streets. They share personal stories and insights on community efforts to tackle this phenomenon. The journey takes a historical turn, exploring the evolution of domestic chickens and their significance in American culture. Humor abounds as they investigate potential culprits, from raccoons to rats, and consider societal attitudes toward littering. Expect light-hearted anecdotes and creative investigations that promise to uncover more about this quirky urban mystery.

A.J. Daulerio, a writer and creator of "The Small Bow," shares his compelling journey through recovery and personal growth. He candidly discusses the pivotal question of when to stop drinking and the emotional discomfort tied to initiatives like Dry January. A.J. reflects on his chaotic media career at Gawker, revealing how external success can coexist with struggle. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, self-love, and the unique joys found in sobriety, providing listeners with insightful perspectives on addiction and recovery.

Dr. Don Schaffner, a distinguished microbiology expert from Rutgers University, joins the discussion about a sushi restaurant scandal in NYC. They reveal shocking DNA test results that challenge trust in seafood. The conversation dives into food safety myths, such as the infamous five-second rule, while examining the intricacies of fish fraud in the sushi scene. Plus, they tackle personal reactions to sushi and the broader implications of foodborne illnesses, shedding light on the complexities of what we eat with humor and insight.

Peter Marco, a marine life genetics expert from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, exposes shocking seafood fraud. He discusses the notorious mislabeling of fish, such as escolar being passed off as tuna, and the health risks this poses. The conversation dives into the dark world of black market fish sales and endangered species trafficking, highlighting the complex journey from ocean to plate. Marco also shares insights on sushi safety and the challenges consumers face with misleading labeling in the seafood industry.

Casey Newton, a journalist and author of the tech-focused newsletter Platformer, dives into the recent chaos at OpenAI, including the surprising dismissal of its CEO. He discusses the delicate balance of power between corporate governance and the democratic principles that should guide AI oversight. Newton highlights the importance of responsible governance amidst AI's evolving landscape and emphasizes the dual nature of this technology: its vast potential paired with significant risks. It's a thought-provoking conversation on the future of AI leadership.

Hannah Goldfield, food critic for The New Yorker, joins the discussion, bringing her adventurous palate to the forefront. They kick things off with a whimsical inquiry from a child about why humans don’t eat each other. The conversation dives into the fascinating taboos surrounding cannibalism, the cultural perceptions shaping our food choices, and the peculiarities of historical practices. Insights into ethical dilemmas combine with a light touch, exploring everything from the Foray tribe’s traditions to unique culinary recommendations, making for a savory mix of humor and thought.

In this engaging conversation, Christopher Bonanos, city editor at New York Magazine and author focused on photography, dives into the fascinating world of the Charging Bull sculpture in Manhattan. He explores its significance as a symbol of capitalism and how it’s become a tourist magnet. Bonanos shares intriguing stories about the artist Arturo De Modica’s journey and the vibrant Soho art scene of the 70s, while reflecting on the transformation of public art in the age of social media.

Bianca Harris, a trained pulmonary and critical care physician, opens up about her 20-year battle with ADHD and the long road to diagnosis. She shares profound insights from her childhood challenges, including a brain tumor, that shaped her struggles with identity. The conversation dives into the highs and lows of long-term medication use, the impact of ADHD on her academic life, and the emotional complexities of medication in family planning. Bianca's heartfelt journey highlights the path to self-acceptance and the evolving understanding of mental health.

Nicholas Rasmussen, a historian and author of "On Speed," dives into his personal journey with ADHD and prescription stimulants like dexedrine. He analyzes how amphetamines evolved from a medical breakthrough to a common treatment. The podcast highlights their role in WWII and the complexities surrounding their use for mental health. Rasmussen reflects on societal perceptions, marketing influences, and the normalization of stimulants, ultimately questioning how such drugs became integral to American life.

Ezra Klein, a prominent writer for the New York Times and host of The Ezra Klein Show, dives into the challenge of using the internet wisely. He explores the tension between accessing valuable information and battling social media's addictive distractions. Klein shares insights on leaving Twitter for better mental health and the struggle for quality journalism in a click-driven world. He emphasizes the need for meaningful connections and intentional habits to navigate the digital landscape without losing oneself.