Radiolab is on a curiosity bender. We ask deep questions and use investigative journalism to get the answers. A given episode might whirl you through science, legal history, and into the home of someone halfway across the world. The show is known for innovative sound design, smashing information into music. It is hosted by Lulu Miller and Latif Nasser.
This podcast episode intricately examines the dynamic and active nature of sleep, debunking the myth of a dormant brain during slumber. Featuring insights from experts like Dr. Carlos Schenck and Dr. Robert Stickgold, it reveals how sleep serves critical evolutionary and cognitive functions through studies on unihemisp...
This podcast episode introduces Terrestrials, a family-friendly nature podcast, by delving into the captivating story of a trio of bald eagles, reshaping our understanding of these majestic birds. Through the eyes of wildlife biologist Ed Britton and the insights of cultural perspectives, the narrative challenges conve...
This podcast episode explores the history and controversy surrounding the Olympics, with a focus on unexpected events and the ethical considerations of intentional losing in sports. It discusses the quirky prizes awarded in the early Olympics and the evolution of the games into a well-organized event. The episode delve...
This podcast episode explores the fascinating history of attempts to revive hearts that have stopped beating, as well as the importance of immediate and effective CPR in increasing chances of survival during cardiac arrest. The episode highlights the shocking statistics of low survival rates outside of a hospital and t...
This podcast episode explores Dr. Oliver Sacks' journey in the field of neurology, starting with his discovery of a group of encephalitis lethargica patients at Beth Abraham Hospital and his use of L-DOPA to improve their condition. It also delves into the tension between quantitative data and descriptive accounts in m...
This podcast episode explores a tragic fire in Pittsburgh in 1995 that resulted in the deaths of three firefighters. The investigation reveals that the fire was intentionally set, leading to the arrest and trial of Greg Brown Jr. and Darlene for arson, insurance fraud, conspiracy, and triple homicide. The defense highl...
This podcast episode explores the history, roots, significance, controversy, and inclusivity of square dancing in America. It delves into the origins and evolution of square dancing, from its association with Anglo-Saxon heritage to its modern-day inclusion of various music genres. The episode also discusses the effort...
This podcast episode explores the power of imagination and mental imagery in shaping our perception and experiences. It highlights the role of listener support in funding the show and emphasizes the dependence on audience contributions. The conversation covers various topics, including visualizing objects like apples, ...
This podcast episode explores the empire of Argentine ants, highlighting their territorial nature and brutal battles. The ants' loyalty, brutality, and fluid network of nests contribute to their global domination. They maintain their identity and loyalty as they spread over vast distances, facilitated by the constructi...
This podcast episode explores the transformative power of the Sony Walkman and cassette tapes, from their impact on personal music listening to their influence on the self-help movement and the Apollo 11 mission. It delves into how the Walkman revolutionized personal technology and allowed individuals to curate their o...
This podcast episode explores radical experiments and the intimate relationships some people have with wild animals. It discusses stories of chimpanzees, such as Barbara Smuts' encounter with a chimp over a raincoat, the adoption and experiment of raising Lucy as a human, Lucy's abilities to learn sign language, and th...
This podcast episode explores the theme of flight and delves into various stories and reflections surrounding this topic. The hosts of Radiolab step outside of their typical nonfiction format and venture into the realm of fiction to push the boundaries of knowledge. They share stories about hummingbirds, the blue whale...
This podcast episode explores the intricacies and malleability of memory. It challenges the traditional view of memory as a static storage system and highlights its dynamic and creative nature. The podcast delves into the formation and erasure of memories, the role of neurons in memory creation, and the potential appli...
This podcast episode explores the concept of finding beauty and significance in ordinary objects and experiences. It begins by introducing the Museum of Everyday Life, a unique museum that showcases everyday objects in an innovative and thought-provoking way. The speakers discuss the importance of appreciating the smal...
This podcast episode explores the origin and relationship between the Earth and the Moon through the lens of Italo Calvino's Cosmic Comics and the story "The Distance of the Moon." The story depicts a time when the Moon was closer to Earth, allowing people to climb onto its surface and collect moon milk. As the Moon gr...
This podcast episode explores the often overlooked role of the moon in the upcoming solar eclipse and delves into the mysteries and significance of our closest cosmic neighbor. The speakers discuss the formation of the moon and its impact on the Earth, as well as its unique characteristics such as sharp soil and extrem...
This podcast episode discusses the concept of palindromes and explores the experiences of immigrants in forging new lives in foreign lands. It highlights the beauty and complexity of palindromes in language and music, as well as the yearning to return to one's homeland. The episode also delves into personal stories of ...
This podcast episode follows the extraordinary journey of Emilie Gossiaux, a young woman who suffered a tragic accident and lost her sight. Despite the bleak prognosis, Emilie's resilience and the power of love and communication led to her miraculous recovery. Through innovative technologies like the Brain Port device,...
This podcast episode goes beyond simply recalling the past but rather brings up stories of Malcolm X, Sophie Scholl, White Rose, and Martin Luther King Jr. to highlight the painful difficulties of speaking up against your own group and the big domino effect that one person's action can have in such circumstances.
This podcast episode explores the history of antibiotics and the current crisis of antibiotic resistance. It highlights the discovery of penicillin, the first true antibiotic, and the subsequent development of antibiotic resistance. The episode also discusses the challenges of developing new antibiotics and the potenti...
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