The Pulse

We all have digital footprints — unique trails of data based on our online activities that corporations use to predict our behavior and influence our choices. Sometimes, it can be helpful; other times, it can feel creepy and intrusive. On this episode, we talk with computational scientist Sandra Matz about what makes up our digital footprints, what they reveal about us, and how they're being used....

When we don't like how we look, or are hypercritical about our appearance, it can really do a number on our mental health. On this episode, we explore the connection between how we look and how we feel, from the unexpected emotional consequences of cosmetic surgery, to why dermatologists and psychologists have joined forces to form a new field. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoi...

For more than 15 years, bipolar disorder defined Abigail Kafka's life. Abigail was heavily medicated, unable to work, or have a social life. Then a therapy session introduced a startling question: What if this diagnosis was wrong? On this episode, we'll discuss what contributed to an explosion of bipolar diagnoses, and why experts disagree whether this disorder is over-or underdiagnosed. Learn mor...

We trace the ripple effects of both scientific breakthroughs and public health disasters — understanding the long-term consequences of decisions and events — ranging from peanut allergies, to the invention of a life-changing new drug, to the lasting impact of intergenerational trauma. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Whether we're talking about something as small as our work habits, or as big as public health policy, change can be tough. It requires energy, courage and persistence, that, a lot of the time, can feel impossible to muster. On this episode, we explore what it is that motivates individuals to change — both themselves and the world around them. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoice...

Ahead of Valentine's Day, we explore the modern world of dating — and why so many people are frustrated with it. We talk with a behavioral scientist and dating coach Logan Ury about best practices for online dating, learn about researchers building a new dating app, and hear stories about successful and not-so-successful efforts to find love. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoice...

Every day, our bodies come in contact with all kinds of potentially harmful things that we can't always see or smell — but which can have real consequences for our environment and health. On this episode, we explore exposure from sunlight to black plastic to hazardous chemicals from the East Palestine train derailment, and ask how we can protect ourselves. Learn more about sponsor message choices:...

In college, Olivia Walch was a self-described "sleep deprivation cowboy." She would go days with only 3 to 4 hours of sleep and then binge sleep at other times. But soon, it all caught up with her. Now, she's a sleep researcher at the University of Michigan with a simple message: Sleep regularity is key — as is darkness. She joins host Maiken Scott to discuss her new book "Sleep Groove: Why Your B...

DIY culture is all about teaching yourself new skills to do things on your own. But what happens when the DIY approach extends to something as complicated as medicine? We hear about a man who developed a cure for his persistent infection in his garage, find out why so many people are flocking to DIY medicine, and learn how one researcher carefully evaluates his patients' DIY approaches. Learn more...

Humans have long dreamed of communicating with other species, from plants and animals to extraterrestrials. On this episode, we explore different efforts to break down the communication barrier with other forms of life. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

We often think of the future as some unknowable horizon, fueled by sudden discoveries and inventions — but in reality, the future is constantly being created, pushed forward little by little by an army of innovators and tinkerers. On this episode, we explore what it takes to create the future, and how we can shape our own destiny. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoi...

Great origin stories aren't only for superheroes or villains in movies and comic books, lots of fascinating tales shed light on how places or people got their start. Origin stories connect us to the past, and speak to what makes us unique, or shaped us. On this episode, we'll listen back to our favorite origin stories; everything from the beginnings of the ICU to Facebook and a famous conman. Lear...

You've heard that music is the language of the soul — but could it also be a treatment for the body? On this reissued episode, we explore the latest science on the healing power of our favorite tunes, how they affect our brains, to why they improve our workouts, to the promise they show in treating illnesses like epilepsy and Parkinson's. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.co...

We turn to first responders for help during emergencies. We expect them to stay calm and cool, and to know exactly what to do. In scary, dangerous, or life-threatening situations, they're the ones tasked with saving us. But their work can have a major, negative impact on their mental and physical health. So who's looking out for them? On this episode: First responders, the toll the job takes — and...

When we're feeling morally outraged — over politics, global conflicts, or violence, like the recent murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson — what's at the root of this feeling? Psychologist Kurt Gray argues that moral outrage is tied to fear and perceived harm. He joins us to discuss his forthcoming book "Outraged: Why We Fight About Morality and Politics and How to Find Common Ground." Le...

For thousands of years, we've thought of language as one of the key features that makes humans unique. But with the rapid evolution of large language models, the line between human communication and AI is starting to blur. On this episode, we explore the possibilities and limits of AI-generated language, how it's changing the way we communicate, and the implications for what it means to be human....

What does it mean to be 'gifted'? Who qualifies and how should we teach and treat gifted children? And, where do the limits of their talents lie? On this encore episode, we hear stories about the challenges of growing up gifted, how musical prodigies are made — and identified, and what a chess wunderkind has to teach us about the value of raw talent vs. experience. Learn more about sponsor message...

Thanksgiving is a lovely holiday — a time for food, family, and counting our blessings. But let's face it: The festivities don't always go as planned. On this episode, we explore the full range of holiday catastrophes, from travel hiccups to cooking disasters, and offer expert advice on how to avoid them. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

We not only love trees for their beauty — we need them for our survival. But around the world, some trees, and even entire forests, are facing numerous existential threats. On this episode, we explore why we need trees, the dangers they face, and new efforts to help them survive and thrive. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

How does nature make durable materials like corals and seashells without a heat or a kiln? How do peacock feathers get their beautiful colors? Scientists are trying to understand these processes and to replicate them for sustainable human products and design. The field of biomimicry is growing. We'll explore its origins and hear about some of the latest innovations. Learn more about sponsor messag...

Circadian rhythms affect more than our sleep — they can shape all aspects of our health, and are in turn shaped by the rhythms of our lives. We explore the intricate mechanics of our internal clocks, and how they affect our health. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

With a contested presidential election looming, we explore what's at stake for health and science, from fertility medicine to cyber security with voting machines, and efforts by scientists to protect themselves from political influence. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

It's that time of year when we celebrate something we usually hate: fear. We visit haunted houses and corn mazes or binge-watch the scariest horror movies. In its most primitive form, fear is about survival — so we can face or escape serious threats. In other settings — where there's no danger — fear can feel exhilarating or fun. On this episode, we explore our complicated relationship with fear....

Your face flushes hot, maybe your fists clench, your heartbeat speeds up and your blood pressure rises. It's rage and it can go from zero to red-hot in seconds. It's normal to feel angry when you or somebody else has been wronged, mistreated, or hurt. But even justified rage can become destructive. How do we handle these fiery emotions when they erupt? Learn more about sponsor message choices: pod...

Police generally aren't trained to deal with mental health crises — and yet they constantly find themselves called to intervene in these challenging situations, sometimes leading to disastrous results. On this episode, we explore efforts to change how law enforcement and health care work together. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy