Noam Hassenfeld

Join Noam Hassenfeld, a host and reporter for Vox's Unexplainable series, and Pascal Walsh, a professor of data science and neuroscience at NYU, as they dive into the intriguing world of tinnitus. They explore how our brains create the sounds we hear and the implications of this 'superpower.' Discover how auditory illusions illustrate our brain's editing process, and learn about treatments that can help retrain our perception. Walsh emphasizes the brain's balancing act between speed and survival, reminding us to remain humble about our sensory experiences.

Noam Hassenfeld, podcast host and musician behind Vox's Unexplainable, explains his musical approach to audio storytelling. He discusses why silence can feel uncomfortable and how he plans and scores stretches of silence. They talk anechoic chambers, John Cage's 4'33", and techniques for easing listeners into long silent passages.

Jeff Horwitz, a Wall Street Journal reporter with a flair for the unusual, shares his wild experiment of consuming poison oak to build immunity. Alongside Noam Hassenfeld, they discuss the surprising culinary potential of this notorious plant. The duo dives into the humorous and perilous world of foraging, poking fun at the absurdity of trying to eat your way to immunity. They also explore the controversial views on poison oak consumption and unravel historical treatments for poison ivy, blending science and adventure with a side of humor.