On Point | Podcast

Gokhan Khotumishlegil, a Harvard physician scientist exploring metabolism's role in chronic diseases, and Marsha McNutt, president of the National Academy of Sciences and geophysicist, tackle the alarming impact of Trump's funding cuts on American science. They discuss how these policies may spark a brain drain, with young scientists considering relocation due to bleak funding prospects and regulatory challenges. The conversation highlights the urgent need for supportive infrastructure to keep the U.S. competitive in global scientific innovation.

Join Jun Lee, an independent sports journalist and founder of Morning Announcements, as he dives into the mounting costs of being a sports fan. He discusses how complex streaming platforms and skyrocketing ticket prices can set fans back thousands each year. The conversation touches on the cultural significance of sports and addresses the erosion of community connections due to financial barriers. Jun also explores the impact of blackouts on viewership, especially for fans in specific regions like Iowa, revealing a shifting fandom landscape.

In this engaging discussion, sound recordist Matt Mikkelsen, director of Wilderness Quiet Parks, explores the urgent need to preserve our planet's dwindling natural soundscapes. He takes listeners on a journey through the auditory richness of the Ecuadorian Amazon and the serenity of Wilderness Quiet Parks. Matt highlights the impact of noise pollution on ecosystems, human health, and social equity. Personal anecdotes, including a thrilling encounter with lightning while recording, emphasize the beauty of silence and the importance of protecting our quietest places.

Tamsin Mather, a volcanologist and professor at the University of Oxford, shares her adrenaline-fueled adventures studying active volcanoes. She recounts her thrilling experiences at Mount Etna, emphasizing the beauty and dangers of volcanic eruptions. Mather reflects on the historical significance of volcanoes like Vesuvius and their dual role in creation and destruction. She also discusses the challenges of predicting eruptions, the emotional impact on communities, and the profound connection between humans and these powerful natural phenomena.

Bethany Samuelson-Banno, a hematology expert at Oregon Health and Science University, and Emily Hoppus, a menstrual health researcher at FHI 360, dive into the underexplored world of menstrual health. They discuss the historical neglect of menstrual research, emphasizing the untapped potential of menstrual fluid for diagnosing conditions like endometriosis. Innovative techniques for analyzing menstrual blood may revolutionize women's health diagnostics. The conversation also advocates for breaking the stigma around menstruation and enhancing funding for research.

Jonas Olofsson, a psychology professor and director of the Sensory Cognitive Research Lab, shares fascinating insights about the power of smell. He discusses how scents can unleash vivid memories and manipulate emotions, highlighting the often-neglected importance of olfactory research. Olofsson explores the evolutionary significance of our sense of smell, the heightened olfactory perception during pregnancy, and the emotional impact of losing this sense during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also advocates for a richer olfactory vocabulary to enhance our sensory experiences.

Jasmin Graham, a marine biologist and co-founder of Minorities in Shark Sciences, brings her decade-long shark research experience to light. She emphasizes the necessity of diversity in marine biology while sharing captivating stories of hammerhead sharks. Jasmin delves into the historical context of race and access at Myrtle Beach, connecting it to community identity. She also explores myths surrounding sharks and their vital ecological roles, advocating for sustainable fishing practices that benefit both people and ecosystems.

Zeke Fox, an investigative reporter for Bloomberg Businessweek and author of 'Number Go Up,' joins Barry Eichengreen, a professor at UC Berkeley, to discuss the GENIUS Act. They delve into how the act could revolutionize banking by allowing banks to issue their cryptocurrencies tied to stable assets. However, they also highlight the potential economic chaos it might unleash, echoing fears of past financial crises. Their conversation navigates the implications for regulation, the rise of stablecoins, and the historical context shaping today's financial landscape.

Jack Beatty, an On Point news analyst known for his insights into historical and literary contexts of current events, dives into pressing topics surrounding immigration enforcement. He discusses the explosive growth of the ICE agency under the Trump administration, highlighting the potential for human rights violations and authoritarianism. Beatty also critiques the media's role in shaping political narratives and reflects on the implications of mass deportation on American freedoms, urging listeners to reconsider what it truly means to be American.

Amit Singh Baga, a Democratic strategist and former advisor to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, joins Kate DeGroiter from the centrist think tank Third Way. They dive into the recent rise of Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani in New York City, igniting debates on populism's role in the party's future. The discussion covers housing crises, food affordability, and the ideological divides between populist and traditional Democratic strategies. They also analyze the party's generational tensions and the importance of connecting with diverse voter concerns.