Wondros Podcast

Originally aired on September 13, 2023

The episode features an interview with Annette Kleiser, CEO of Dalan Animal Health, who has developed a vaccine for honeybees. The vaccine is administered to the queen bee through a sugar paste and is then passed on to her offspring, providing protection against diseases. The honeybee population plays a crucial role in pollination and food security, so the development of this vaccine is seen as a significant breakthrough. The CEO discusses the challenges of starting a new business in a niche market, gaining regulatory approval, and addressing the global need for bee health. The interview also touches on the importance of insects in ecosystems, the impact of diseases on bee colonies, and the potential for expanding this vaccination approach to other insect species.

What is the delivery mechanism for the vaccine?

• The vaccine is mixed with a sugar paste called clean candy.
• Beekeepers feed the vaccine-laced sugar paste to the queen bee, who then passes it on to her offspring.
• The liquid vaccine is taken up by the queen and passed onto her ovaries and developing eggs.

Why are honeybees important for food security?

• One-third of the world’s food depends on pollinators.
• Honeybees are the primary pollinators used in agriculture to boost crop yields.
• Losing honeybees would have a significant impact on nutrient-rich foods, biodiversity, and climate concerns.

How did the CEO get involved in developing a honeybee vaccine?

• The CEO met a researcher at the University of Helsinki who had the idea for a honeybee vaccine.
• Recognizing the importance of bees and the lack of solutions to address their decline, the CEO decided to form a company and make the vaccine a reality.
• The development of the vaccine began four and a half years ago.

What are the challenges in the beekeeping industry?

• Bee colonies face a multitude of stressors, including diseases, climate change, pesticides, and transportation.
• The lack of modern tools for disease protection puts bee colonies at risk.
• The goal of the vaccine is to make bees healthier and better equipped to handle these stressors.

How do clinical trials for the vaccine work?

• Clinical trials involve exposing the larvae to the disease to test if they become sick.
• High doses of the pathogen are used to observe the survival rates of vaccinated larvae.
• The initial responses from thousands of beekeepers who tried the vaccine have been positive, with no reported cases of disease.

What are the challenges in scaling the honeybee vaccine business?

• The company is facing a high demand for the vaccine but has limited resources to respond to inquiries and manufacturing requests.
• The focus is on targeting specific markets and establishing partnerships in different countries.
• Increasing awareness and investment in innovative solutions for bee health is essential.

Originally aired on September 6, 2023

In this episode of The Wondros Podcast, hosts Jesse and Priscilla speak with Dr. Daniel Kraft, a physician-scientist and expert in digital health and the future of healthcare. They discuss the future of preventative medicine and the advancements in technology that will revolutionize healthcare. Dr. Kraft explains how cancer treatment has evolved and the potential for personalized tumor vaccines and genomic medicine. He also discusses the importance of social determinants of health and how factors such as environment and community can impact longevity. Dr. Kraft emphasizes the need for a proactive approach to healthcare and the integration of technology and data to provide personalized, effective care. He explores the role of AI in healthcare and its potential to improve diagnostics and treatment. Overall, Dr. Kraft’s insights highlight the incredible progress and opportunities in the field of preventative medicine.

The Future of Cancer Treatment

• Advancements in immunotherapy and personalized tumor vaccines
• The potential of genomic medicine and precision oncology

Social Determinants of Health

• The impact of environment and community on health outcomes
• Designing healthier clinical spaces and communities

The Integration of Technology and Healthcare

• The influence of wearables and digital biomarkers on self-care
• The potential for genetic testing and risk stratification in preventive care

The Role of AI in Healthcare

• AI-enabled diagnostics and therapeutic tools
• The need for medical education to adapt to technological advancements

Originally aired on August 30, 2023

In this episode of Wondros, Dan Finnegan, the founder of Solar Shepherd LLC, discusses his innovative approach to utilizing solar farms for sustainable grazing. He highlights the benefits of combining clean energy and sheep farming, emphasizing how the sheep can help maintain the vegetation under the solar panels. By rotating the sheep in a grazing strategy, the land remains healthier, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and promoting carbon sequestration.  Finnegan explains how his background in corporate America and experience in the financial services industry led him to launch the solar grazing business. He also shares the challenges and opportunities of expanding the business, partnering with solar companies, and promoting local agriculture and clean energy.

The concept of solar grazing

• Solar farms provide wide open spaces for clean energy production
• Vegetation maintenance is crucial to ensure optimal solar panel performance
• Sheep can be used to graze the land between the solar panels, reducing the need for toxic herbicides like Roundup

Benefits of solar grazing

• Enhances soil health and carbon sequestration through rotational grazing
• Reduces the risk of damage to expensive solar equipment during maintenance
• Improves the aesthetics of solar farms by maintaining a green and lush appearance

Challenges and concerns of solar grazing

• Ensuring animal welfare and responsible grazing practices by experienced farmers
• Addressing potential conflicts with other wildlife and predators on the grazing sites
• Need for ongoing monitoring and training to maintain high standards

Business model and clients

• Solar Shepherd works with solar companies to manage vegetation on their sites
• Focuses on building relationships with solar companies through networking and marketing
• Offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for solar farm maintenance

Scaling and expansion of solar grazing

• Recognizing the need for additional pastures and land for expanding the sheep flocks
• Partnering with agriculture industry groups, solar companies, and the federal government to promote solar grazing
• Training and sharing best practices to ensure responsible and successful solar grazing operations

Future aspirations and industry growth

• Encouraging other farmers to explore solar grazing as a means to sustain their farms
• Fostering an industry of family farms and maintain profitability in the agricultural sector
• Promoting the benefits of solar grazing for the environment, economy, and local communities

Originally aired on August 23, 2023

In this episode of Wondros, Dr. Donald D. Hoffman, cognitive scientist and author of “The Case Against Reality,” discusses his theory that consciousness is fundamental and challenges the idea that space-time is the foundation of reality. He explains that space-time is merely a data structure, like a virtual reality headset, that conscious agents use to interact with each other. Dr. Hoffman compares his theory to ideas from Plato and Leibniz, highlighting how science has advanced to provide greater precision and scientific backing for these philosophical concepts. He also explores the limitations of the current standard model of particle physics and discusses the integration of consciousness into our understanding of physics.

The Standard Model of Particle Physics

• The standard model is an impressive achievement but has weaknesses and limitations.
• Physicists are questioning the fundamental nature of space-time, which the standard model relies on.
• The particles in the standard model are tied to the foundation of space-time, making the search for new structures beyond space-time necessary.

Consciousness and Physics

• The measurement postulate in quantum theory poses a challenge for physicalists who cannot explain how observation collapses wave functions.
• Reductionism fails in explaining conscious experiences and their relationship to particles and space-time.
• Dr. Hoffman argues that consciousness is fundamental, and current theories for deriving conscious experiences from computational processes lack scientific evidence.

The Simulation Theory

• Dr. Hoffman distinguishes his theory from the simulation hypothesis put forth by Nick Bostrom.
• The simulation hypothesis assumes space-time as fundamental and implies that computational systems can create conscious experiences, which has no scientific basis.
• Dr. Hoffman’s theory posits a vast social network of conscious agents beyond space-time, with space-time being a limited interface to navigate interactions.

Artificial Intelligence and Consciousness

• Dr. Hoffman initially pursued artificial intelligence and explored the possibility of creating consciousness through computational systems.
• He highlights the lack of scientific evidence that any computational system, including AI, can explain specific conscious experiences.
• The rigorous exploration of consciousness and its integration with AI and neuroscience is crucial for understanding the limits of computational systems.

Exploring the Nature of Consciousness

• Dr. Hoffman emphasizes the importance of exploring the connection between science and spirituality in understanding the fundamental nature of consciousness.
• The convergence of scientific rigor and spiritual ideas can lead to greater insights and progress in our understanding of consciousness.
• The mathematical model of conscious agents offers a potential bridge between science and spiritual traditions, improving the precision and exploration of consciousness.

Originally aired on August 16, 2023

In this episode of Wondros, hosts Jesse and Priscilla interview National Geographic Explorer and marine biologist, Luiz Rocha, who explores the deep sea reefs. Luis discusses his experiences diving to depths of 400-500 feet and discovering new species of fish and coral. He explains the excitement of discovering something new and the importance of protecting reefs for their ecological significance and beauty. The conversation also covers topics such as the process of diving at these depths, the impact of human activities on reefs, and the challenges of conservation efforts. Overall, the episode sheds light on the wonders and challenges of exploring and safeguarding the hidden secrets of the deep sea.

The thrill of discovery in deep sea diving

• The biologist is always surprised and excited to find new species during dives.
• Fish, coral, crustaceans, and nudibranchs are just a few examples of the diverse species they discover.
• The beauty and uniqueness of each new species make the experience of exploring deep sea reefs captivating.

The significance of deep sea reefs and the need for conservation

• Over a billion people depend on reefs for food, tourism, and coastal protection.
• Reefs also play a vital role in the production of bio compounds used in medicine.
• The biologist personally values reefs for their breathtaking beauty and believes they should be preserved.

The challenges of diving at extreme depths

• Technical diving at depths of 400-500 feet requires specialized training and equipment, including a rebreather for breathing helium.
• The gear is heavy, and swimming can be strenuous, which is why divers use scooters to navigate underwater.
• The process of decompression after a deep dive can take several hours, but the biologist and his team find ways to stay productive during this time.

The discovery of new species and their naming

• The biologist often encounters new species of fish during his dives, easily recognizable by their unique colors and attributes.
• When a new species is found, the team photographs and documents it, sometimes collecting samples for further study.
• The naming of new species has moved away from using Latin and Greek names and now prioritizes using local names, allowing communities to connect with the newly discovered species.

Conserving deep sea reefs in the face of human impacts

• Even in remote places, signs of human impact such as fishing lines, nets, and litter can be found on the deep sea reefs.
• Proper conservation requires finding a balance between protecting reefs and sustainable fishing practices.
• The biologist emphasizes the need for targeted conservation efforts, focusing on areas most vulnerable to destruction rather than meeting arbitrary targets.

The future of deep sea exploration and conservation

• The biologist believes there is still much to discover in the depths of the ocean and appreciates the opportunity to contribute to scientific knowledge.
• Collaboration with local scientists and building partnerships is essential for successful conservation efforts.
• Deep sea mining, though not widely observed at the depths explored, poses a potential threat that must be monitored and addressed to protect these delicate ecosystems.

Originally aired on August 9, 2023

In this episode of the Wondros Podcast, hosts Jesse and Priscilla interview Yu Ping Chan, the head of Rising Nations Initiative Secretariat at the United Nations’ Global Center for Climate Mobility. The interview focuses on the challenges faced by Pacific Islands due to climate change and rising sea levels. Yu Ping Chan discusses the potential impact on the islands, the loss of land and culture, and the urgent need for action. The conversation highlights the importance of raising awareness, preserving culture and heritage, and holding governments accountable for their commitments to combat climate change.

The Vulnerabilities of Pacific Islands:

• Pacific Islands, such as Tuvalu, are at the forefront of the climate crisis and face imminent existential threats.
• Rising sea levels are causing flooding, rendering parts of the islands uninhabitable.
• The islands’ small landmass and low elevation make them extremely susceptible to the impacts of climate change.

Preservation of Culture and Heritage:

• The connection between Pacific Islanders and their land is deeply rooted in their culture and heritage.
• Climate change poses a significant challenge to preserving their traditions, as the islands face the possibility of complete submersion.
• Efforts are being made to create digital repositories and online platforms to safeguard cultural artifacts, records, and traditions.

Impacts on People and Communities:

• Movement of people due to climate change is becoming a reality for Pacific Islanders.
• The loss of land and the need to relocate can have devastating effects on communities and their social fabric.
• The connections and communal gatherings integral to their culture become difficult to maintain when people are forced to move away.

The Role of International Support:

• The International Community has been slow to respond adequately to the climate crisis faced by Pacific Islands.
• The Rising Nations Initiative aims to raise awareness of the situation and garner support for these vulnerable communities.
• Holding developed countries accountable for their commitments, addressing loss and damage, and providing financial support are crucial steps in assisting Pacific Islanders.

The Urgency of Action:

• The urgency of reducing carbon emissions and mitigating global warming cannot be overstated.
• Projections for the future indicate catastrophic impacts on Pacific Islands, necessitating immediate action to change the current trajectory.
• Awareness, activism, and governmental accountability are key components in addressing the climate crisis and supporting vulnerable communities.

Exploring Solutions and Future Scenarios:

• Potential solutions include exploring legal associations or treaties with other countries to facilitate movement while preserving cultural identity.
• Technology and digital platforms offer opportunities to preserve culture, heritage, and community connections.
• The engagement of civil society, artists, researchers, and international organizations is essential in supporting the Pacific Islands and advocating for action.

Originally aired on August 2, 2023

The Wondros episode focused on new research examining how a common parasite called Toxoplasma gondii (Toxo) affects the behavior of wolves in Yellowstone National Park. Jesse and Priscilla interviewed two scientists, Connor Meyer and Kira Cassidy, who conducted the study.

The researchers found that wolves infected with Toxo were more likely to disperse from their packs and become leaders of new packs compared to uninfected wolves. They theorize the parasite may increase boldness, helping infected wolves take more risks to find mates and start new packs. This benefits the parasite’s goal of reproducing and spreading to new hosts like mountain lions that roam the Yellowstone area.

To examine the parasite’s impact, the researchers tested blood samples from wolves in Yellowstone going back over 20 years. Around 25-40% of the wolves had Toxo antibodies, indicating past exposure. The parasite likely spreads when wolves ingest infected mountain lion scat while exploring territorial boundaries.

While Toxo may give infected wolves a behavioral edge for leadership, the researchers noted it could also increase risky behaviors that lower survival. Wolves dispersing to new packs face many threats alone before finding a mate. Still, the parasite seems to manipulate host behavior to further its spread, an evolutionary strategy seen in other species too.

The researchers plan to continue studying how Toxo may interact with wolf personality, relationships, and culture learned from pack mates. Their work sheds light on how a common parasite affects animal behavior and the ecosystem.

How does a common parasite change wolf behavior in Yellowstone?

• Researchers found the Toxoplasma gondii (Toxo) parasite makes wolves more likely to disperse and become leaders of new packs.
• They theorize Toxo increases boldness and risk-taking, helping wolves find mates and reproduce.
• Testing wolf blood samples, 25-40% showed past Toxo exposure. It spreads via mountain lion scat in territory.
• While aiding leadership, Toxo may also lower survival through risky dispersal from packs.
• The parasite manipulates host behavior to spread further, a common evolutionary strategy.
• Researchers will continue studying Toxo’s impact on wolf personality, bonds, and culture.

Originally aired on July 26, 2023

The Wondros podcast hosted by Jesse and Priscilla interviewed Noah Robinson, founder of the virtual mental health platform called Innerworld. Noah shared how his personal struggles with depression as a gay teenager led him to escape into the online video game RuneScape for 10,000 hours. While it trapped him in a virtual world, it also provided a supportive community. This experience inspired Noah to create Innerworld, which provides peer mental health support in a virtual environment using avatars. Innerworld offers support groups led by trained lay counselors on topics like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and hosts fun social events. The tools and visuals used make concepts like CBT more accessible. Members find the anonymity combined with the feeling of presence from being an avatar in a 3D space creates a safe space to open up. Many members share how the support and skills learned in Innerworld help them in their daily lives. Innerworld plans to expand support options as its community grows. The biggest obstacle currently is awareness. Innerworld wants to reach more people struggling with mental health issues who can benefit from its unique virtual support system.

How did the founder’s personal struggles lead him to create Inworld?

• Founder Noah Robinson escaped into the online video game RuneScape for 10,000 hours as a depressed gay teenager
• The game provided him an anonymous supportive community, though also trapped him avoiding reality
• This experience inspired him to create the virtual peer support platform IInnerworld to help others

What does Innerworld provide as a virtual mental health platform?

• Innerworld offers support groups led by trained lay counselors on topics like depression, anxiety, PTSD etc.
• It also hosts fun social events and hangout spaces for members
• The 3D environment and avatars create anonymity while retaining feeling of human presence
• Tools and concepts like CBT are presented visually to increase accessibility

How does Innerworld help its members?

• Members share how Innerworld provides a safe space to open up without judgment
• The skills and support in Innerworld help them face challenges in daily life
• Innerworld fills gaps in traditional mental health treatment with its unique approach

What are Innerworld’s growth plans and obstacles?

• Innerworld plans to expand support options as its community grows
• The biggest current obstacle is awareness – reaching more people who can benefit

Originally aired on July 19, 2023

Blurred Boundaries: Exploring the Intersection of Genetics and Psychiatry

How much of mental illness is influenced by our genes versus our environment and experiences? This question lies at the heart of Dr. Jordan Smoller’s fascinating research exploring the complex relationship between genetics and psychiatric disorders.

Dr. Smoller explains that while psychiatric conditions have long been known to run in families, it has only been in recent decades with advances in genetic analysis that researchers have been able to directly study the role of DNA variations. Early twin studies comparing identical and non-identical twins provided initial evidence that genetics substantially contribute to most psychiatric disorders.

However, unlike classic genetic diseases caused by single gene mutations, psychiatric conditions involve a more complex combination of small variations in thousands of genes that add up to increase risk. Environmental factors still play a key role as well. Dr. Smoller notes the boundaries between normal variation in human personality and behavior versus clinical definitions of mental illness remain blurry.

With modern big data analysis and machine learning, Dr. Smoller’s team strives to improve prediction of serious psychiatric outcomes like suicide risk and matching patients to optimal treatments. They have developed algorithms analyzing electronic health records that show promise to identify individuals in need of early intervention. He cautions about the ethical use of such tools, as biases can inadvertently be embedded in the data.

Social connection and physical activity consistently emerge from their studies as protective factors that can overcome even high genetic risk for depression after trauma. The pandemic’s spotlight on mental health offers opportunities to advance research and expand access to care. While optimism exists about developing more targeted treatments based on genetic pathways, Dr. Smoller stresses a balanced, holistic approach remains key.

How has research enhanced our understanding of the genetic basis for psychiatric disorders?

• Twin studies first demonstrated high heritability of mental illness
• Genetic analysis now identifies DNA variations that increase risk
• Combination of small gene variations rather than single mutations

What are some of the ethical concerns when applying big data to mental health?

• Prediction algorithms can inadvertently embed societal biases
• Must ensure responsible use of individuals’ data and predictions
• Important to involve diverse perspectives

How might insights from genetics guide more precise psychiatric care?

• Predict individuals at highest risk for suicide or other adverse outcomes
• Match patients to optimal medication based on genetic profile
• Develop treatments targeting specific biological pathways

What emerged as protective factors against depression in the research?

• Social connection lessened depression risk even with high genetic risk
• Physical activity also lowered odds of developing depression
• Findings highlight need for holistic approach beyond just medication

How has the pandemic shifted perspectives on mental health challenges?

• Mass trauma increased public awareness of mental health crisis
• Creates opportunities to advance research and expand care access
• But must maintain balanced view incorporating social and biological factors

Originally aired on July 12, 2023

In this episode of Wondros, Jesse and Priscilla with Dr. Christopher Stimpson, a zoologist and archaeozoologist, about his research on ancient Egyptian bird paintings found in a room called “The Green Room” in the ruins of the city of Amarna.

The Green Room is located in the northern palace ruins in Amarna, the capital city built by Pharaoh Akhenaten in the 14th century BCE. It was named by early 20th century excavators for the green painted walls that were found there. Stimpson became interested in studying the bird paintings after corresponding with archaeologist Barry Kemp about excavated bird bones from the Amarna site. Stimpson noticed that there didn’t seem to be any definitive identifications made previously of the bird species depicted in the Green Room paintings.

Using his background in ornithology, Stimpson analyzed the paintings in detail and made identifications of the species portrayed based on distinctive characteristics that were represented. The majority of the identifiable birds appear to be rock pigeons, which prefer cliff habitats rather than the marshes depicted in the paintings. Other species identified include a pied kingfisher, a redback shrike, and a white wagtail.

The prominence of rock pigeons in the paintings is interesting because there is limited archaeological evidence of rock pigeons being widely consumed as food sources at Amarna during the period these paintings were made. However, there is some pictorial evidence that rock pigeons may have been offered as votive offerings to the deity Aten, who was promoted by Akhenaten. Stimpson speculates that the inclusion of rock pigeons in the marsh scenes may be more symbolic, representing wild nature and the surrounding desert cliffs rather than the actual habitat preferences of the birds.

The redback shrike and white wagtail identified in the paintings are migratory species that would have appeared seasonally in the area when the Nile floodwaters receded. This flooding event deposited nutrient rich black silt ideal for agriculture along the Nile banks. Stimpson theorizes that the distinctive markings depicted on these migratory bird species may represent a temporal element, intentionally highlighting this important seasonal period for sowing crops.

Stimpson is careful to emphasize that his interpretations of the bird species and symbolic meaning of their depictions is not definitive. He aimed to make reasonable cases for species identification based on artistic characteristics and considers his perspective an ornithological one meant to complement standard Egyptological analysis.

There is still quite limited context available for interpreting the purpose and overall significance of the Green Room within the palace complex. The room itself likely belonged to royal residents of the palace, potentially being used as living quarters or studio space. But the wall paintings may have been created purely for decorative purposes, with no elaborate symbolic meaning intended.

Stimpson has an interdisciplinary academic background that combines interests in zoology, paleontology, and archaeology. This enables him to utilize methods from all these fields to study ancient human-animal relationships and gain perspective on long-term ecological changes over millennia. His PhD research involved extensive excavation and analysis of bat populations and environmental changes in large cave sites in Borneo spanning 50,000 years. This work allowed Stimpson to reconstruct bat population changes and contextualize the impacts of modern human activities like deforestation and agriculture in Borneo within a deeper time scale.

In general, Stimpson believes that studying the deep past and ancient evidence of human and animal life satisfies human curiosity and helps situate current global environmental and social issues within a much longer framework of hundreds of thousands of years of planetary history. He advocates maintaining an attitude of open curiosity about past ecosystems and life on Earth, even when it may not have immediate applicability to modern research goals or conservation efforts.

Bullet point summary:

What ancient bird paintings were found in the Egyptian ruins at Amarna?

• Paintings found in “The Green Room” depict species like rock pigeons, a kingfisher, shrike and wagtail

Why did the rock pigeons painted in The Green Room raise questions?

• Rock pigeons prefer cliff habitats yet were painted in marsh scenes

• Limited archaeological evidence of pigeons being consumed for food at Amarna

How did Stimpson approach analyzing the bird paintings?

• Used an ornithological perspective to identify species from artistic characteristics

• Aimed to complement standard Egyptological analysis

What theory does Stimpson have about symbols on some birds?

• Markings on migratory birds may represent seasonality and the Nile flood

Why is context limited for interpreting The Green Room paintings?

• Purpose of the room itself remains unclear

• Paintings may have been purely decorative

How does Stimpson’s background inform his perspectives?

• Combining zoology, paleontology and archaeology provides long-term view

• Studies past ecosystems and human-animal relationships

What is Stimpson’s view on the value of studying the deep past?

• Satisfies human curiosity and contextualizes modern issues

• Maintaining curiosity about the world is important

Originally aired on July 5, 2023

In this episode of Wondros, Kiersten E. Todt, former Chief of Staff at the United States Government’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), discusses the future of cybersecurity with quantum computing and AI, China as both an ally and adversary, the use of platforms like TikTok as weapons, and the regulation of AI by the U.S. government.

The Future of Cybersecurity with Quantum Computing and AI

• Kiersten E. Todt shares insights on the role of quantum computing and AI in shaping the future of cybersecurity.

China as an Ally and Adversary

• The discussion delves into China’s dual nature as both an ally and adversary in the realm of cybersecurity.

Threats posed by TikTok and Fentanyl

• The conversation explores the use of platforms like TikTok and the opioid epidemic fueled by fentanyl as potential weapons.

Regulating AI: U.S. Government Perspectives

• Kiersten E. Todtaddresses the U.S. government’s approach to regulating AI and the challenges it faces in this area.

New Threats on the Horizon

• The podcast touches upon the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and the emergence of new threats that need to be addressed.

Originally aired on June 28, 2023

In this episode of the Wondros Podcast, Josh Bongard discusses xenobots, which are biological robots that reproduce in an unusual way. He explains his interest in biomimicry and how it influenced the development of xenobots.

What are xenobots?

• Xenobots are biological robots that have the ability to reproduce.
• They are created using a combination of biology and artificial intelligence.
• Xenobots are designed to mimic natural biological systems.

How did the idea for xenobots come about?

• Josh Bongard was inspired by his study of biomimicry and the development of natural biological systems in nature.
• He wanted to explore how these natural systems could be utilized in a different scale, leading to the concept of xenobots.

What is biomimicry?

• Biomimicry is the study of natural systems and processes, and using them as inspiration for designing technologies.
• It involves observing and imitating the structures, functions, and behaviors found in nature.

How do xenobots reproduce?

• Xenobots reproduce through a process of self-healing and regeneration.
• When a xenobot is damaged, it can repair itself by utilizing its biological components.
• The ability to reproduce sets xenobots apart from traditional robots.

Originally aired on June 21, 2023

In this episode of the Wondros podcast, journalist and data scientist Thomas Hargrove discusses the lack of comprehensive data on murders in the United States, and how his organization is suing the federal government over their failure to report murders as mandated by law. He also talks about his algorithm for identifying serial killers and the connection between procedural justice and a surge in unsolved murders.

What is causing the recent surge in murders in the United States?

• The murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis by a white police officer was the spark that ignited the surge in murders
• The spike occurred exactly in the week of Floyd’s murder, and relates to the theory of procedural justice

What is procedural justice and how does it relate to unsolved murders?

• Procedural justice is the criminological concept that when a growing number of people decide that the system is not procedurally fair, there becomes a growing suspicion that police are not legitimate
• This lack of legitimacy prompts people to take justice into their own hands, which leads to a surge in unsolved murders

Why doesn’t the United States keep comprehensive data on murders?

• There is no national database of murders in the United States
• The FBI’s Uniform Crime Report includes only those murders reported to the police, and is therefore incomplete
• There is no incentive for local police departments to report murders to the federal government.

Originally aired on June 14, 2023

This podcast episode features Michael Reynolds discussing his work on sustainable, autonomous housing that does not harm the environment. He talks about his 55 years of experience in developing these homes that partner with the Earth and the challenges faced in making them more accessible to people.

What is Michael Reynolds’ work on sustainable, autonomous housing?

• Michael Reynolds has been working on sustainable, autonomous housing for 55 years.
• The houses he designs partner with the Earth and do not cause harm to the environment.
• The goal is to create affordable housing that is accessible to more people.

Originally aired on June 7, 2023

Jesse talks with Co-founder and COO of Metagood, Amanda Terry. Metagood is a company building NFTs on Bitcoin and building a better future for Web3 that empower communities to be catalysts for positive collective action.

Amanda Terry, co-founder and COO of Metagood, talks about their NFT collection, OnChainMonkey, and the community they have built around it. She explains the difference between Web2 and Web3 and how Web3 creates wealth for the community, while also doing real-world good.

How does Metagood’s OnChainMonkey create wealth and do real-world good?

• OnChainMonkey was the first profile pic collection all on chain in a single Ethereum transaction
• They made history again as the first 10,000 NFTS inscribed on Bitcoin
• They have a passionate community that believes in the ability of Web3 to create wealth and do real-world good
• NFT token holders are contributing to and are stakeholders in the community, rather than just being monetized through their attention
• As the value of their NFTs goes up, holders benefit
• Metagood donates a portion of their profits to charitable causes

Originally aired on May 31, 2023

George Veni talks about how he became interested in cave exploration, the mission of the National Cave and Karst Institute, and the importance of understanding karst water.

Why is understanding karst water important?

• Karst water is a unique type of water found in underground caves and systems that is vulnerable to contamination and depletion.
• Many regions rely on karst water for drinking, agriculture, and industry, so understanding its properties and vulnerabilities is crucial for sustainable management.
• Karst water also plays a significant role in shaping the landscape and can be a key indicator of environmental changes.

Originally aired on May 24, 2023

Catlin Langford talks about her interest in autochromes, early color photography, and her work as a photography conservator at the Getty Museum.

The fascination with autochromes

• Langford was fascinated by the early color photography process of autochromes.
• Autochromes are a collection of about 2,500 plates at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

Photography conservatorship and her work

• Langford discusses her job as a photography conservator at the Getty Museum.
• She explains the process of conserving photographs, including cleaning, repairing, and archival framing.

Originally aired on May 17, 2023

Jesse and Priscilla talk with mathematical physicist Dr. Grant Deane about his giant indoor ocean wave and his research on ocean dynamics.

How is the machine that Grant built and can recreate ocean storms in a lab?

• The ocean in a lab allows scientists to study the interactions between the ocean and atmosphere during a storm.
• The machine is 100ft long, 8ft wide, and can create waves and simulate wind blowing over the ocean.
• It allows researchers to study the complex interactions of the ocean and atmosphere during a storm in a controlled laboratory setting.
• Grant Deane’s work is important for understanding and predicting the effects of climate change on our oceans and the planet overall.
• The lab-created ocean storms provide insights into the behavior of real-world ocean storms, leading to better predictions and preparation for natural disasters.
• Grant Deane’s work has been recognized with an Emmy Award for outstanding science and environmental programming.

Originally aired on May 9, 2023

Jesse and Priscilla talk with two-time Grammy Nominee and archivist Gordon Skene. Skene runs The Gordon Skene Sound Archive and Past Daily, a resource for preserving and sharing audio and sounds from historic news, events, and cultural highlights and treasures.

Originally aired on May 3, 2023

Jesse and Priscilla talk with librarian and information scientist, Joe Janes, author of the article Everything Dies, Including Information.

Why does the future of libraries hold the potential for a digital dark age?

• Libraries have been evolving for centuries, but some things remain the same.
• The amount of digital information being created is overwhelming and there is a danger of losing access to it in the future.
• Questions about what information should be saved and who decides are complicated and require ongoing discussions.
• Collaboration between libraries and other organizations is necessary to address challenges and ensure access to information for future generations.
• Libraries have an important role to play in preserving and providing access to information for present and future generations.

Originally aired on Apr 26, 2023

Jesse and Priscilla talk with Marin Carthy, the renowned English folk singer-guitarist who significantly influenced the 1960s folk revival and the genre of social change protest anthems. Carthy was awarded “Most Excellent Order of the British Empire” (MBE), a British order of chivalry that acknowledges key contributions in art and science, and BBC Radio 2 Folk Lifetime Achievement Award.

How was Martin Carthy’s introduction to folk music and how it influenced the folk revival?

• Martin Carthy’s interest in folk music started early on
• Seeing Sam Larner sing was a transformative experience for Carthy
• Larner’s arrangements of traditional songs were musically and lyrically different
• Carthy’s passion for traditional music influenced the folk revival in the UK
• Carthy’s contributions and influence on folk music were recognized with awards and honors

Originally aired on Apr 19, 2023

Jesse and Priscilla talk with artist, designer, and scholar Christine Checinska, Ph.D., about missing design histories, the relationship between cloth, culture, and race, and her work as the curator of African and African Diaspora Fashion at the Victoria and Albert Museum. They also discuss the meaning and significance behind the expression “cloth is to the African what monuments are to Westerners.”

What is Christine Checinska’s interest in fashion and aesthetics, and how it sparked her fascination with the histories of cloth and African diaspora textiles?

• Christine’s parents were snappy dressers with a keen eye for style and the latest gadgets.
• Christine’s interest in the aesthetics of cloth grew from her visits to museums with her father and her own exploration of African diaspora textiles.
• Christine notes the importance of understanding cloth histories from diverse cultural perspectives and recognizes the erasure of non-Western textile histories in mainstream fashion and textile industries.
• Christine is currently the curator of African and African diaspora fashion at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and advocates for greater representation of these collections in museums and fashion exhibitions.
• Christine believes that understanding textile histories can inspire innovation and sustainability in fashion and hopes to encourage more collaboration and dialogue across cultures and disciplines.

Originally aired on Apr 12, 2023

In celebration of the 200th episode, Jesse and Priscilla talk with Laura Silber, Vice President for Advocacy and Communications at the Open Society Foundations. They discuss the global landscape of authoritarianism and the hope and future of open societies.

Originally aired on Apr 5, 2023

This episode discusses Facebook’s use of euphemisms to describe various teams and their work, as well as the platform’s impact on societal issues such as genocide and mental health. It also features an interview with whistleblower legal defender, Libby Liu.

Highlights

• Facebook’s team that studies their impact on societal issues such as genocide is called “social cohesion”
• The platform’s algorithm has been implicated in causing mental health issues such as teen suicide
• Facebook must deal with the world as it is today and take responsibility for the effects of its innovations
• Signposts existed along the way for Facebook to recognize the harmful impacts of its algorithm
• Interview with whistleblower legal defender, Libby Liu, discussing the importance of protecting and defending whistleblowers
• Defining whistleblowers as truth-tellers, not traitors
• Calls for increased protections and support for whistleblowers in both the public and private sectors

Jesse and Priscilla talk with Mina Martinez-Hoshino, an animal rights activist who runs the animal sanctuary AnimO (Animal Oasis) where she rescues wildlife, pets, exotic animals, and “”rejects”” from the pet trade. Animo addresses the lack of animal rights in Japan.

Animo addresses:

• The lack of animal rights in Japan.
• Mina has 11 dogs in her home.
• Mina cares for and releases animals in Japan, with a fluctuating total of 80 to 100 animals.
• She is located in Chiba.
• Mina’s focus is on animal rescue and sending them back to the wild.
• She has worked with a variety of animals, including rabbits and hedgehogs.
• Mina also works with marine animals and has rescued sea turtles.
• Her goal is to reduce needless killing of animals in Japan.

Jesse and Priscilla talk with Sheri Wells-Jensen, a linguist who specializes in psycholinguistics (psychology and language) and xenolinguistics (alien languages). She is also an ambassador for AstroAccess, a project dedicated to access and inclusion in space exploration.

This podcast discusses the importance of designing for accessibility in space travel, as there will be people with disabilities in space due to its inherently dangerous nature.

Why is accessibility in space important?

• Space travel is dangerous and can cause disabilities, so designing for accessibility is crucial.
• People with disabilities will be part of space travel and exploration.
• Accessibility is necessary for all aspects of space travel, from transport to living quarters.
• Ignoring accessibility in space can have consequences for individuals and the mission as a whole.
• Changing perceptions about disability and accessibility is important for progress in space exploration.
• AstroAccess is working to promote accessibility in space and encourage inclusivity.
• The future of space travel depends on prioritizing accessibility for all individuals.

Originally aired on Feb 15, 2023

Jesse and Priscilla talk with medieval scholar Dr. Lisa Fagin Davis, who identified a page at an estate sale that turned out to be a lost fragment of a medieval manuscript from around 1285 that she had been studying for 15 years.

Looted medieval manuscripts are difficult to track and conserve. Efforts to restore and repair them are important to recover some of the loss.

• Many books, art, and sculptures from the medieval period have been destroyed, making the restoration work valuable.
• Lost manuscripts may never be known until they are found.
• As a medievalist, any effort to restore some of the loss is valuable to someone.
• The fire at Notre Dame is an example of how significant works of art can be lost.
• Medieval manuscripts are difficult to track and are often stolen.
• Looters sell manuscripts to collectors, making them difficult to retrieve.
• Efforts to restore and repair looted medieval manuscripts are important to recover some of the cultural loss.

Originally aired on Mar 15, 2023

Brain and cognition researcher, Shrey Grover, talks about his experiments stimulating the brain with electric currents to see how people think, remember, and behave.

Brain stimulation devices are being developed to cater to different memory functions.

• Memory function is not a single entity but consists of different types.
• Alzheimer’s disease affects episodic memory more than procedural memory.
• Brain stimulation tools are being developed for each memory function.
• Understanding the brain is key to developing effective brain stimulation devices.
• Brain stimulation can potentially aid memory retention.
• Different memory functions may be impacted by different conditions.
• Memory function can be enhanced with the right brain stimulation.

Originally aired on Mar 8, 2023

Jesse and Priscilla talk with Peter Kant and Lauren Bacon Smith of Enabled Intelligence about their employees, veterans, and people on the Autistic spectrum with special skills and abilities for data labeling and AI technology.

Neurodiverse populations in Israel were enlisted in the military and deployed to cybersecurity, code evaluation, quality assurance, and analysis. This program resulted in an extremely low turnover rate and high performance.

• Neurodiverse soldiers were deployed by IDF in cybersecurity, code evaluation, quality assurance, and analysis.
• The program resulted in extremely low turnover rate and high performance.
• This program can be a model for any industry, especially a startup.
• Hiring neurodiverse individuals enables companies to prevent AI bias.
• Collaboration between neurodiverse and neurotypical individuals can enhance problem-solving and innovation.
• This program can promote inclusivity and diversity in the workforce worldwide.
• The potential of neurodiverse individuals can be tapped by providing them with the right support and opportunities.

Originally aired on Mar 1, 2023

Jesse and Priscilla talk with Oxford professor of philosophy of theoretical physics, Owen Maroney, about whether it’s more likely that each moment of our experience bursts in and out of existence out of nowhere.

What is the Boltzmann Brain Paradox?

• The Boltzmann Brain Paradox questions the formation of intelligent life in the universe by suggesting that it might simply be a random fluctuation of entropy.
• Maroney discusses the implications of this paradox for the nature of reality and consciousness.
• The Boltzmann Brain Paradox suggests that complex systems, such as intelligent life, might be a result of random fluctuations of entropy rather than natural processes.
• The paradox challenges the traditional view that intelligent life arises through evolution and natural selection, and suggests that we might simply be living in a temporary fluctuation of the universe’s entropy.
• The paradox raises questions about the nature of reality and consciousness, and whether our understanding of the universe is limited by our own cognitive biases.
• Maroney suggests that the paradox may be a result of our own limited understanding of the universe, and that we may need to rethink our conception of entropy and information.
• The paradox also has implications for the search for extraterrestrial life, as it suggests that the formation of intelligent life might be far less probable than we currently believe.
• Ultimately, the Boltzmann Brain Paradox challenges us to question our assumptions about the universe and our place in it, and to remain open to the possibility that our understanding of reality may be far more complex and mysterious than we can currently imagine.

Originally aired on Feb 22, 2023
Meet Erik Villard, the Digital Military Historian at the U.S. Army Center of Military History who created a Google Earth-based map system.

This episode discusses the need to understand the experiences of Vietnam veterans and their families, as many of them returned home to an indifferent or hostile reception.

Erik Villard, shares how his personal experiences and conversations with veterans inspired him to help shed light on their stories.

• Villard was inspired to help shed light on the experiences of Vietnam veterans after hearing their stories.
• He wanted to serve Vietnam veterans and their families, who had often been met with indifference or hostility upon their return.
• It is important for people to understand what these veterans went through and to move past negative associations with their service.
• Villard has written books and curated exhibits to help share the stories of Vietnam veterans.
• He believes that these efforts to honor and recognize their service have helped change attitudes towards Vietnam veterans.
• Villard also notes that it is important to continue recognizing and honoring the service of all military personnel, not just those in high-profile conflicts.
• This podcast episode provides a unique perspective on U.S. military history that is not often seen or highlighted.

Jesse and Priscilla talk about using machine learning to forecast conflict and social uprisings with Philip Schrodt, mathematician and senior research political scientist of statistical consulting firm Parus Analytical Systems.

Jesse and Priscilla talk with Dr. Spiros Michalakis, CalTech quantum physicist and consultant for Holllywood blockbusters Ant-Man, Captain Marvel, and Bill & Ted 3. What would happen if scientists were considered as important to sci-fi filmmaking as the director, the writer, and the actors?

Originally aired on Feb 8, 2023

Jesse and Priscilla talk with Allison Sesso, CEO of RIP Medical Debt, a nonprofit organization that buys and forgives medical debt.

The United States has an industry for buying and selling debt, including medical debt, which hospitals sell to for-profit debt buyers. Once purchased, the debt can be collected on, often with the power of the court system to hold individuals accountable. Unfortunately, medical debt is a type of debt that individuals have little control over.

What is the state of medical debt in the United States?

• There is a marketplace for all types of debt, including medical debt.
• Debt is a foundational part of the economy in the United States.
• At least $195 billion of medical debt exists worldwide.
• Hospitals can sell medical debt to for-profit debt buyers.
• Debt buyers have the right to collect on the debt, often with the power of the court system.
• Medical debt is a type of debt individuals have little control over.
• This system has created a big problem for those who struggle with medical debt.

Jesse and Priscilla sit crooked and talk straight with musician @Moby about veganism and our collective cognitive dissonance for how much suffering we cause the creatures and planet we love.

Premiered Feb 1, 2023

Jesse and Priscilla talk with journalist Jamie Kalven, journalist and founder of The Invisible Institute, about his award-winning muckraking exposing police corruption in Chicago.

How police abuse in Chicago is not just the result of individual officers but rather a systemic issue rooted in racism and inequality.

• Police abuse in Chicago is a systemic issue that can’t be solved just by expelling individual bad actors from law enforcement.
• Society’s consignment of certain populations to inferior status creates space for official actors, including police, to abuse and prey on those populations.
• Journalists have a responsibility to uncover and report on police abuse, despite pushback from law enforcement.
• The use of body cameras has revealed the extent of police abuse in Chicago, but there is still a long way to go in terms of accountability and transparency.
• To address systemic issues, we must consider the root causes of inequality and racism in our society.
• Police unions often protect abusive officers, creating a culture of impunity that perpetuates abuse.
• Communities affected by police abuse must have a voice in the reform process in order to create meaningful change.

Originally aired on Jan 25, 2023

Jesse and Priscilla talk with Dr. Spiros Michalakis, CalTech quantum physicist and consultant for Hollywood blockbusters Ant-Man, Captain Marvel, and Bill & Ted 3. What would happen if scientists were considered as important to sci-fi filmmaking as the director, the writer, and the actors?

How Hollywood movies can promote scientific literacy and the importance of slowing down to have conversations and ask questions in understanding complex scientific concepts.

• Hollywood movies can be a valuable tool for promoting scientific literacy.
• Slowing down to have conversations and ask questions is important in understanding complex scientific concepts.
• Euphoria comes from learning and providing challenges that refine ideas and conversations.
• There is much hidden in the universe, which can be explored through scientific inquiry.
• The complexity of the universe can be found in an infinitesimally small point.
• Being the dumbest person in the room can be exciting when striving to learn and understand.
• The full structure and complexity of the universe can be found in even the smallest things, such as a grain of sand.

Originally aired on Jan 25, 2023

Jesse and Priscilla discuss using machine learning to forecast conflict and social uprisings with Philip Schrodt, mathematician and senior research political scientist of the statistical consulting firm Parus Analytical Systems.  Philip explains the inherent complexity of political systems and the challenges of predicting significant events.

Can using machine learning help to predict political unrest and revolution?

• Philip Schrodt became interested in predicting significant events during his joint degree in mathematics and political science.
• The study of political systems is complex and requires input from various fields.
• Machine learning can help identify patterns and possible triggers for political unrest.
• Predicting significant events is challenging due to the dynamic nature of politics and the emergence of unexpected factors.
• The application of machine learning to predicting significant events is still in the early stages and requires further development.
• Policymakers can use machine learning techniques to better anticipate and prepare for potential crises.
• Machine learning can help inform decision-making and guide resource allocation to areas most at risk of political unrest.

Originally aired on Nov 30, 2022

Jesse and Priscilla talk with the all-star team of physicists and technologists making traversing wormholes possible, and their discovery helps confirm String theory. These quantum pioneers include Maria Spiropulu, the senior investigator at CERN who oversaw the discovery of the Higgs boson particle.

Read more about the fascinating work this team is doing in the articles below:

Jesse and Priscilla talk to the man behind Scam School, Hacking the System, The Modern Rogue, and The World’s Greatest Con, Brian Brushwood, about social engineering, magic, comedy, and the art of the con.

Jesse and Priscilla talk to Aidan Meller, gallery director of the leading art dealership in Oxford and creator of Ai-Da, the world’s first humanoid AI robot artist.

Ai-Da is a robot artist that creates artwork and questions technology’s rise in the 2020s.  At first, Ai-Da faced skepticism from robotics companies but Aidan, persisted in making this robot artist.

Highlights

• Ai-Da creates art and critiques technology’s rise in the 2020s.
• Ai-Da was created by Aidan Meller, who faced skepticism from robotics companies.
• Aidan Meller persisted in making Ai-Da, the robot artist.
• Ai-Da’s creation upset the art world and garnered media attention.
• Ai-Da’s artwork raises questions about the relationship between technology and art.
• Ai-Da is an innovative blend of robotics, artificial intelligence, and art.
• Ai-Da’s role as an artist challenges traditional notions of creativity and authorship.

Jesse and Priscilla talk with Pietro Moran of The Giving Block about how to leverage crypto for philanthropic causes.

Jesse and Priscilla talk with attorney, author, and law professor, Josh Fairfield, about how law can keep up with technology, human rights, and threats to democracy.

Jesse and Priscilla talk with Dr. Carolyn Kurle, professor of Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution about what happens to islands that become overrun with rats.

Jesse and Priscilla talk with Andrew Hessel, author of the book “The Genesis Machine: Our Quest to Rewrite Life in the Age of Synthetic Biology.”

Jesse and Priscilla talk to infectious disease epidemiologist Steffanie A. Strathdee and her husband Thomas Patterson about the race to save Tom’s life from an antibiotic-resistant superbug… that turned him into a snake. Superbugs are expected to kill more people than cancer later this century. The miracle cure turned out to be a bacterial virus called a Phage. Phages are now being explored for their incredible potential to combat superbugs.

Jesse and Priscilla talk with secret society scholar and expert Richard B. Spence about the history and ethos of secret societies.

Jesse and Priscilla talk with Cambridge Zoologist Arik Kershenbaum about clues in animal communications that might help us make meaningful contact with aliens.

Jesse and Priscilla talk with iconic Herblock Prize-winning cartoonist & political satirist, Lalo Alcaraz, about his many syndicated political cartoons including “La Cucaracha,” and human rights activism through art.

Jesse and Priscilla talk with forest biotechnologist and environmental scientist, William Powell, about the citizen-scientist fight to save and repopulate the American Chestnut. The American Chestnut is an “almost perfect” tree because of its numerous benefits to humans, animals, and the environment.