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Join journalist Ben Westhoff, author of "Fentanyl, Inc.," as he unpacks the disturbing rise of fentanyl in street drugs. He shares chilling recordings from a Chinese lab, revealing how dealers integrate this deadly substance into various drugs—often risking their own customers' lives. Westhoff discusses the dual legacy of fentanyl's creator and dives into the cultural narratives that led to the opioid epidemic. He also sheds light on the dangers of drug contamination and the stark realities of profit-driven practices in the drug trade.

Bill Fulton, an expert in urban planning and former mayor, dives into the intriguing world of transforming vacant offices into apartments. He discusses the paradox of empty workspace amidst a housing crisis, exploring zoning laws and community resistance. Fulton shares fascinating concepts, from backyard roller coasters to tiny apartments in malls, shedding light on the complexities of urban development. The episode also features a humorous debate about a viral zoo video that questions identity, keeping the discussion lively and engaging!

Andrew Leland, a writer and author of "The Country of the Blind," shares his profound journey of gradually losing his sight over two decades. He offers insights into navigating the emotional landscape of vision loss and discusses the importance of mindfulness and technology in coping with such changes. Andrew emphasizes the need for accessibility in digital spaces, highlighting the power of alt text. He also reflects on the identities shaped by blindness and the diverse perspectives within the blindness activism community.

Technology journalist Casey Newton, known for his insights into tech trends and Elon Musk, dives deep into Musk's recent eccentric behavior. They explore the evolution of Musk's public image from an innovative entrepreneur to a polarizing figure. Newton discusses the role of social media in shaping perceptions and the profound implications of Musk's acquisition of Twitter. A fascinating segment on simulation theory adds a philosophical twist, questioning our reality and the impact of generative AI on society's views. A must-listen for tech enthusiasts!

Kelefa Sanneh, esteemed writer for The New Yorker and author of Major Labels, shares his insights on staying connected to new music as we age. He dives into how nostalgia influences our musical tastes and the challenge of balancing old favorites with fresh sounds. The impact of platforms like TikTok on music discovery is explored, along with the emotional bonds we have with songs from our youth. Kelefa offers practical tips for finding new music in today’s digital landscape, making it accessible for all generations.

Nancy Keats, a former Wall Street Journal reporter, dives into the disconcerting truth about airplane coffee and water safety. She recounts her investigations that revealed alarming hygiene issues, including infrequent cleaning of water tanks. The conversation explores the implications of unsafe drinking conditions, shedding light on bacteria like E. coli lurking in the skies. Keats discusses regulatory changes prompted by her work, urging travelers to think twice before sipping that in-flight brew.

Dr. Laurel Braitman, a Stanford professor and author known for her work on animal behavior and mental health, shares fascinating insights into the emotional lives of zoo animals. She discusses how a history of misunderstood animal emotions impacts their well-being. Listeners will learn about the touching moments of joy and darker realities in elephant lives and the surprising ways animals respond to live music. The conversation challenges our ethical perspective on zoos, offering a new understanding for those questioning their moral implications.

Dive into a fascinating exploration of life's big and small questions! This new series blends humor with serious societal discussions. Listeners are invited to submit their own questions for future episodes, ensuring a relatable and interactive experience. Get ready to ponder everything from the mundane to the profound!

Traveling to Greenland sparks a deep conversation about climate change and cryptocurrency, all inspired by an unexpected airport encounter with Coolio. The discussion dives into Bitcoin's environmental impact, with a focus on energy consumption and the tension between eco-conscious initiatives and traditional practices. Explorations of ice cores reveal our historical footprint on the planet, while breathtaking glacier views provide a poignant backdrop for reflections on sustainability and technology's future.

Dick Doyle, a Hollywood talent manager with a keen eye on the intersection of entertainment and NFTs, dives into the wild world of digital assets. He discusses the recent downturn in cryptocurrency, exploring the implications for celebrities who jumped on the NFT bandwagon. Doyle critiques the superficial motivations behind these endorsements and unpacks the emotional stakes in the kidnapping of a high-profile NFT. With anecdotes about a stolen digital asset and insights into the investigative side of blockchain, this conversation unveils the dramatic future of digital ownership.