Radiolab

Heather Radke, a contributing editor and author of "Butts: A Backstory," reveals the fascinating cultural and historical significance of buttocks. She discusses the eugenics movement of the 1930s, showcasing a contest aimed at the 'most normal girl' and how societal norms shape our identities. The conversation navigates the perplexities of clothing sizes, highlighting the garment industry's influence on body image. With a mix of humor and insight, Radke challenges listeners to rethink standards of beauty and embrace body acceptance.

This hour, we dive into the messy mystery in the middle of us. What's going on down there? And what can the rumblings deep in our bellies tell us about ourselves?  We join author Mary Roach and reach inside a live cow's stomach. Talk with writer Frederick Kaufman about our first peek into the wonderful world of human digestion that came about thanks to a hunting accident. And explore with show regular, science writer, and fellow water drinker, Carl Zimmer, about the trillions of microscopic creatures that keep us regulated, physically, but also, maybe, emotionally and spiritually. Our newsletter comes out every Wednesday. It includes short essays, recommendations, and details about other ways to interact with the show. Sign up (https://radiolab.org/newsletter)!Radiolab is supported by listeners like you. Support Radiolab by becoming a member of The Lab (https://members.radiolab.org/) today.Follow our show on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @radiolab, and share your thoughts with us by emailing radiolab@wnyc.org. Leadership support for Radiolab’s science programming is provided by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Science Sandbox, a Simons Foundation Initiative, and the John Templeton Foundation. Foundational support for Radiolab was provided by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.

In this insightful discussion, Karen Clark, a trailblazer who created the first predictive hurricane computer model, shares her journey and its impact on the insurance industry. She highlights the importance of accurate weather forecasting, its historical significance, especially during D-Day, and the challenges of predicting climate change's effects. The conversation reveals how innovations in weather data, particularly through technology, are transforming our understanding and response to increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.

In this engaging discussion, Jesse Cox, grandson of renowned British radio entertainers Leslie and Sidney Pittington, explores the enchanting legacy of his grandparents. He shares their unique brand of entertainment, blending magic with storytelling. The conversation also unfolds themes of metamorphosis, prompting deep reflections on the nature of identity and consciousness. From the secrets of magic to the emotional depth of family history, listeners are invited to ponder the magic of perception and the mysteries that lie within the black boxes of life.

Avir Mitra, an ER doctor, teams up with Dr. Laura MacIsaac, a leading gynecologist, to discuss the evolving landscape of abortion care. They highlight how advancements in medication like misoprostol and mifepristone are changing the way abortions are administered. Avir was surprised by Laura's insights into progress, rather than despair, surrounding abortion practices. The duo also explores the impact of telehealth on access, especially during the pandemic, and emphasizes the importance of self-managed abortions as a key aspect of reproductive healthcare.

David Byrne, the iconic frontman of Talking Heads, teams up with neuroscientist Thalia Wheatley to explore the complexities of human perception in a fascinating discussion. They delve into Byrne's immersive 'Theater of the Mind,' challenging audiences' reality through art and science. From auditory experiments that manipulate sound perception to the intriguing dynamics of human interaction and synchronized minds, they uncover how our identities shape our experiences. Ultimately, they celebrate the transformative power of collaboration and the joy of embracing change.

Sheri Fink, an award-winning New York Times reporter and author of "Five Days at Memorial," dives into the profound ethical dilemmas of triage in crises. She shares harrowing accounts from Hurricane Katrina and other disasters, confronting the heart-wrenching choices medical professionals face when resources dwindle. Fink explores the emotional weight of deciding who lives and dies amidst chaos, illustrating how these decisions resonate in both historical and contemporary contexts. The discussion challenges listeners to ponder morality in life-and-death situations.

Sy Montgomery, an acclaimed author and naturalist, shares the captivating tale of Inky, an ingenious octopus who cleverly escaped captivity. The discussion highlights Inky's remarkable intelligence and survival tactics, challenging traditional views on animal smarts. Listeners are enchanted by the notion of octopuses 'kissing' with their suction cups and their unique underwater behaviors. This adventure into marine intelligence encourages both kids and adults to appreciate the wonders of the natural world and invite exploration of animal consciousness.

Quicksand once haunted our childhood imaginations, but its fear factor has faded with today's youth. A journalist dives deep into why kids aren't scared anymore, exploring quirky niches like quicksand fetishism. Historical portrayals transform from genuine peril to comedic relief, revealing a cultural shift. The metaphor’s significance from the 1960s echoes societal anxieties, while humorous ties to iconic franchises like Star Wars add a playful twist. Ultimately, quicksand reflects our evolving fears and narratives, making it a fascinating topic.

Two scientists invent an AI tool meant for drug discovery, only to discover it can also create deadly chemical weapons. The ethical dilemmas surrounding such dual-use technologies come to the forefront. They grapple with the devastating implications of creating toxins more potent than any known nerve agents. Their decisions are further complicated by a tense dialogue with government officials about sharing sensitive research. The podcast also highlights advancements in chemical weapon destruction, showcasing a bittersweet contrast between healing and harm.