Short Wave

Ken Carter, a psychologist from Oxford College of Emory University, specializes in thrill-seeking behavior. In this lively chat, he explores why some people love getting scared, revealing the psychological allure of fear during experiences like haunted houses and horror films. Carter discusses the peak of thrill-seeking in adolescence and how environmental factors shape our appetites for risk. With personal anecdotes, they uncover the curiosity surrounding scary scenarios and the unique traits of high sensation seekers.

Curious about how muggy weather affects your comfort? The discussion reveals why dew point temperature deserves more attention than relative humidity. Learn how humidity and temperature interplay to impact your outdoor activities, like running or biking. Discover the critical role of dew point in assessing heat stress and its effects on the body. With the increasing severity of heat-related health issues tied to climate change, understanding these weather metrics could enhance your daily life and well-being.

Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR science correspondent, sheds light on the dire situation of sunflower sea stars, a keystone species disappearing from our oceans. She shares the inspiring story of a passionate biologist working to save them through innovative breeding and rescue efforts. Greenfieldboyce discusses the critical ecological role these sea stars play and the challenges posed by disease in their decline. Listeners learn about the emotional connections caregivers form with these lab-grown stars as they strive to restore balance to marine ecosystems.

James Factora, a trans journalist and author of "A Beginner's Guide to Hormone Replacement Therapy" for Vice, dives deep into hormone replacement therapy (HRT). He discusses the obstacles faced by transgender individuals within the U.S. healthcare system, including discrimination and insurance issues. Factora emphasizes the importance of community support when starting HRT and dispels common myths about its effects on reproductive health. He also highlights the significant mental health benefits this therapy offers, ultimately empowering individuals on their transition journey.

Dive into the fascinating world of states of matter beyond what you learned in school. Discover how particles behave during transitions and why water is a remarkable example. The conversation shifts to superfluid states that form at ultra-low temperatures, revealing mind-bending phenomena. Explore the creation of Bose-Einstein condensates and the unique laboratory conditions required. Finally, learn about the groundbreaking research in ultracold matter and its potential impact on future technologies and educational advancements.

Lauren Sommer, NPR's climate correspondent, dives into the pressing dilemma local governments face about urban development amidst rising sea levels. She discusses Sunnyvale, California, where expansion plans by Google collide with environmental risks. The conversation touches on the balance between urban growth and ensuring resident safety in flood-prone areas, exploring sustainable practices. The debate over who should bear the costs of climate adaptation — taxpayers or private landowners — adds another layer to this complex issue.

Dive into the science of sandcastle building and discover the perfect water-to-sand ratio for those towering creations. Learn about the origins and types of sand, and enjoy personal anecdotes from childhood beach days. Hear expert insights on how sediment properties affect structural stability. Plus, explore the fun and quirky aspects of vibration impacts while building! Whether you're a seasoned sand sculptor or just looking for tips, this conversation promises to inspire creativity on the shore.

Lauren Sommer, NPR's climate correspondent, dives into the pressing issues of climate change adaptation in the San Francisco Bay Area. She discusses who should bear the financial burden of protecting coastal regions—taxpayers or deep-pocketed tech companies like Facebook. The conversation touches on the vital role of marshes, restoration projects, and the stark inequalities faced by vulnerable communities. As sea levels rise, Sommer raises ethical questions about funding and responsibilities in safeguarding both people and property.

Join Nizar Ibrahim, a National Geographic Explorer and paleontologist, as he discusses the groundbreaking discovery of Spinosaurus, the first known swimming dinosaur. He shares exhilarating tales of his team's explorations in Morocco, revealing the challenges faced in unearthing these ancient fossils. The podcast dives into the unique anatomy of Spinosaurus, showcasing its crocodile-like features that challenge conventional views on dinosaur behavior. Ibrahim also emphasizes the significance of local representation in paleontology, advocating for inclusive narratives in science.

Allison Aubrey, NPR's health correspondent, highlights the recent 40% surge in COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and its overwhelming impact on hospitals, particularly in Mississippi. She discusses the urgent need for children's vaccination as pediatric hospitalizations rise and explores the push for booster shots among the immunocompromised. With predictions of a peak surge expected in mid-October, Allison emphasizes the critical nature of healthcare access and ongoing vaccination efforts in this fast-evolving situation.