Lauren Sommer

Lauren Sommer, NPR science correspondent and expert on animal breeding, tackles the contentious issue of bulldogs in this engaging discussion. She reveals how a breeding ban in Norway has ignited debates about the ethics of prioritizing looks over health. The conversation dives into the severe health challenges bulldogs face, linked to inbreeding and low genetic diversity. Sommer also highlights innovative breeding practices, such as outcrossing, that aim to improve the overall health of purebred dogs. It’s a thought-provoking journey into animal welfare and breeding ethics.

Lauren Sommer, an NPR science correspondent, joins the conversation about orcas and their dual identity as top predators and marine park stars. She discusses groundbreaking research documenting orcas attacking a blue whale, highlighting their intelligence and hunting prowess. The podcast also explores how human perceptions of these creatures have evolved, reflecting more on society than on the orcas themselves. From their complex social structures to their dominant role in the ocean, Sommer sheds light on the nuanced reality of killer whales.