This podcast episode explores the fascinating world of the microbiome, the community of trillions of bacteria that live on and in the human body. The microbiome is immensely important for human health and is implicated in various diseases, from obesity to Crohn's disease. The episode discusses the microbiome's role in childbirth, how bacteria are transferred between individuals through everyday interactions, and how certain bacteria can disrupt the microbial balance of the recipient. The episode also highlights a scientific breakthrough that allows researchers to track the movement of bacteria through a handshake, unveiling the surprising dynamics of bacterial exchange and its implications for understanding microbial communities and human health.