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Send us Fan MailA parasite that lays eggs in wounds and eats living tissue sounds like something from a horror movie, but it is real and it is making headlines right now. We break down the New World screw worm outbreak in Texas, what it does to animals, and why ranchers and veterinarians treat it as an urgent livestock health emergency. We also talk through the bigger picture: how infestations spread through everyday cuts and bites, why wildlife can make control harder, and how trade disruptions can turn a regional outbreak into a North American economic shockwave.Then we switch gears to pet science with a deceptively simple animal behavior study that asks a great question: will your pet help you without being asked? Researchers hid a boring object like a dish sponge, offered zero rewards, and watched what happened when a familiar human “struggled” to find it. Dogs often step in like toddlers, pointing out the location or retrieving it, while cats tend to watch closely and decide it is not their problem unless there is something in it for them. We unpack what that says about prosocial behavior, domestication, and why “helping” is not the same thing as intelligence.Our guest is Dr. Laci Brock of Stellar Arts, an astrophysicist who turned her science communication skills into a full-time space art business. Lacey shares how she builds multispectral paintings using real telescope imagery across wavelengths (think Hubble plus James Webb Space Telescope), what it takes to produce high-quality limited edition fine art prints, and how viral moments like “Meteor Geese” and her Artemis mini paintings sparked real “moon joy” online. We also get candid about generative AI, artist consent, copyright, and why the conversation is bigger than just aesthetics.Dr. Brock's Art Page!Our Links!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.All our social links are here!
Send us Fan MailYour brain is way more flexible than your body. We start with a wild virtual reality study that asks a simple sci-fi question: could humans learn to fly if we had wings? After a week of VR training with motion tracking, participants don't just get better at flying through rings and hovering over cliffs, their brains begin responding to wings the way they respond to arms. We unpack what that says about neuroplasticity, body perception, and why “embodiment” is the real magic behind great human-tech interfaces.Then we shift to something you can try today with zero equipment: play with your dog for five extra minutes. A Royal Society study suggests short, focused interactive play like tug, chase, hide and seek, and rough-and-tumble can strengthen emotional closeness even more than adding extra training time. We share our own household chaos, the games that hype the dogs up, and why tiny daily interactions can matter more than you think.Our guest, Melly Byrd (Melly The Science Geek), brings the big energy and the big brains. We talk about building a science communication audience on TikTok and Instagram, choosing topics that genuinely spark curiosity, and going deep on the biology of cannibalism, prion diseases like Kuru and Creutzfeldt-Jakob, and what mad cow disease taught the world about the food chain. We also get real about generational divides, phones in schools, and the growing push to limit generative AI so students can actually learn the skills they're outsourcing.Melly on InstagramMelly's WebsiteAll our social links are here!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.All our social links are here!
Send us Fan MailA cruise ship, a rare virus, and a big question: when you hear “hantavirus outbreak,” what's the real risk and what's just scary headlines? We start by unpacking the MV Hondius hantavirus story, why hantaviruses can be so dangerous, and how infections usually happen through rodent exposure in dusty enclosed spaces. We also talk through what public health officials look for during an outbreak, including long incubation windows, fast testing, and why person-to-person transmission is typically very limited.Next, we shift into pet science and stress. We break down a meta-analysis on whether the presence of dogs reduces human stress responses during stressful tasks. We focus on what the data actually supports: heart rate reactivity and self-reported stress and anxiety show clearer benefits, while cortisol and blood pressure results are less consistent. If you care about therapy dogs, animal-assisted interventions, or just why your dog feels like a walking exhale, this section gives you a grounded, evidence-based take.Then we have a fun curveball guest: Matt Koff, an Emmy-winning writer for The Daily Show and the comedian behind the new YouTube special Cat Man (not for children). We talk comedy writing as a collaborative process, what it feels like to chase a bigger laugh, and Matt's very real cat stories, including pica, vet bills, and the weird stigma people still attach to men who love cats. Matt's Comedy Special Matt's SubstackOur linksSupport the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.All our social links are here!
Send us Fan MailA rare autoimmune disorder can feel invisible until it steals someone's movement, and stiff person syndrome is one of the starkest examples. We break down what's happening in the nervous system when GABA-driven “calm down” signals get disrupted by autoantibodies, why symptoms can escalate into severe spasms and rigidity, and why the condition has captured public attention through Celine Dion's story.Then we shift from symptoms to source: an experimental CAR T-cell therapy designed to eliminate the B cells that produce the harmful antibodies in stiff person syndrome. We walk through what a phase two clinical trial reported, including real-world changes like faster walking and fewer people needing walking aids, plus the caveats that matter for anyone following medical research such as side effects, small sample sizes, and unknown durability.Pet parents get a deep dive too. Chronic kidney disease in cats is common, progressive, and often detected late, so we cover a promising approach involving AIM protein and recombinant AIM therapy (RAIM) injections, including how researchers tracked toxins like indoxyl sulfate and what survival outcomes looked like over a year. Finally, plant scientist Dr. Vikram Baliga joins us to make botany feel urgent and strange in the best way, from ancient bristlecone pine “time capsules” to crown shyness and the science of how plants sense nearby competitors, plus a glimpse at nitrogen-fixing corn research that could reduce fertilizer dependence.Dr. Vikram's linksAll our social links are here!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.All our social links are here!
Mindfulness is a $2 billion industry. It's in apps, corporate programs, retreats, and workplace wellness modules. And men are more burned out, disconnected, and distracted than ever. So is mindfulness actually working?Sean Fargo is a former Buddhist monk who spent two years in a Thai monastery before deciding the world needed these teachings more than the monastery needed another monk. His platform, has reached over 20 million people. He trained under the teachers at Spirit Rock. And he's the man who certified Jon as a mindfulness meditation teacher.This conversation goes beyond the apps and the retreats into what's actually blocking men from presence — grief they've never acknowledged, purpose they've never defined, and values they've never chosen for themselves. Sean ends the episode with a live mindfulness practice. Don't skip it.IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN:Why the real problem isn't pace or tech — it's that most men are moving faster than they can feelThe difference between outer purpose and inner purpose — and why outer goals collapse under pressureHow grief is silently blocking thousands of men's meditation practice — and what to do about itWhat the Buddha called the most powerful mindfulness practice: awareness of deathWhy Sean wants to go out of business — and what that vision says about where mindfulness needs to goHow to ask yourself the one question that cuts through all the noise: what would I like for myself?FOLLOW SEAN FARGO:mindfulnessexercises.comLinkedInTOP 3 SIMILAR EPISODES FROM MTM:Ep. 140 — Can AI Meditations Replace Real Teachers and Be Effective? with Dr. Steve HaberlinEp. 93 — The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself with Dr. Kristin NeffEp. 73 — Dr. James Doty: Neurosurgeon & Author of Into the Magic ShopStart Your Mindful Journey:SUBSCRIBE - Thursday Three Things or Text MTM to 33777: newsletter.focusnowtraining.comFREE Training Content or Corporate Workshop: focusnowtraining.comMore Episodes & Resources: mentalkingmindfulness.comCoaching with Will: willnotfear.comBook Jon to Speak: jonmacaskill.comCo-produced by Robert Lopez | cratesaudio.comHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Sermon Notes: The Practice of Love: The Power for Victory Rev. Dr. Ebenezer Okronipa Main Scripture Focus: Galatians 5:6, Mark 11:23-25, 1 Peter 3:8-12, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. I. Love: The Engine of Faith The Activation of Power: Faith is not a standalone force; it is "activated, energized, and expressed" through love. The Cause of Stagnation: If your confessions of Scripture are not producing results, check your love walk. Bitterness and unforgiveness act as spiritual blockades to miracles. Maturity Over Gifting: The greatest measurement of spiritual growth is not the intensity of your tongues or the accuracy of a prophecy, but the depth of your love for others. II. The Danger of Offense and the "Gates of Hell" The Trap of Offense: Satan often uses offense as leverage to fight against the church. When you decide to leave a church or stop serving because of an offense, you are falling into a demonic snare. A "Hospital" Mindset: The church is not a place for perfect people; it is a place for the "sick, weak, and offended" looking for healing. We must accommodate each other's frailties. Selfishness in Conflict: Most offenses in the body of Christ are rooted in self-centeredness—being more concerned with one's own feelings than the unity of the body. III. Love as Divine Protection The Power of Forgiveness: Forgiveness is a spiritual decision, not an emotion. When you forgive, you close the doors that allow the enemy access to your life. The Consequences of Bitterness: Bitterness can cause physical sickness and spiritual blindness, leading a person to "not know where they are going". The "Eyes of the Lord": According to 1 Peter 3, long life, "good days," and divine protection are promised to those who keep their tongues from evil and seek peace. IV. Practical Love in Action The sermon outlines specific traits of Agape love that believers must practice: Suffering Long: Enduring difficult people with patience. Being Kind: actively seeking the welfare and happiness of others. Not Boasting or Being Proud: Operating without a sense of superiority or "puffing yourself up" over others. Keeping No Record of Wrongs: refusing to hold on to past hurts or using them against someone later. Protecting Others: Covering a brother or sister in private rather than exposing their weaknesses. V. Conclusion: The Victorious Walk Everything Else May Fail: Prophecies, tongues, and specialized knowledge are temporary and may fail or cease, but love is eternal and never fails. The Final Goal: The believer's "great quest" should be to attain a state where they speak the truth in love and grow into the full stature of Christ. Sermon Declaration: “I refuse to live a powerless or disconnected life. I choose to make love my great quest. From today, I reposition my life so that my faith is energized by love, my prayers are answered, and I walk in the total victory of God.”
Sermon Notes: The Practice of Love: The Power for Victory Rev. Dr. Ebenezer Okronipa Main Scripture Focus: Galatians 5:6, Mark 11:23-25, 1 Peter 3:8-12, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. I. Love: The Engine of Faith The Activation of Power: Faith is not a standalone force; it is "activated, energized, and expressed" through love. The Cause of Stagnation: If your confessions of Scripture are not producing results, check your love walk. Bitterness and unforgiveness act as spiritual blockades to miracles. Maturity Over Gifting: The greatest measurement of spiritual growth is not the intensity of your tongues or the accuracy of a prophecy, but the depth of your love for others. II. The Danger of Offense and the "Gates of Hell" The Trap of Offense: Satan often uses offense as leverage to fight against the church. When you decide to leave a church or stop serving because of an offense, you are falling into a demonic snare. A "Hospital" Mindset: The church is not a place for perfect people; it is a place for the "sick, weak, and offended" looking for healing. We must accommodate each other's frailties. Selfishness in Conflict: Most offenses in the body of Christ are rooted in self-centeredness—being more concerned with one's own feelings than the unity of the body. III. Love as Divine Protection The Power of Forgiveness: Forgiveness is a spiritual decision, not an emotion. When you forgive, you close the doors that allow the enemy access to your life. The Consequences of Bitterness: Bitterness can cause physical sickness and spiritual blindness, leading a person to "not know where they are going". The "Eyes of the Lord": According to 1 Peter 3, long life, "good days," and divine protection are promised to those who keep their tongues from evil and seek peace. IV. Practical Love in Action The sermon outlines specific traits of Agape love that believers must practice: Suffering Long: Enduring difficult people with patience. Being Kind: actively seeking the welfare and happiness of others. Not Boasting or Being Proud: Operating without a sense of superiority or "puffing yourself up" over others. Keeping No Record of Wrongs: refusing to hold on to past hurts or using them against someone later. Protecting Others: Covering a brother or sister in private rather than exposing their weaknesses. V. Conclusion: The Victorious Walk Everything Else May Fail: Prophecies, tongues, and specialized knowledge are temporary and may fail or cease, but love is eternal and never fails. The Final Goal: The believer's "great quest" should be to attain a state where they speak the truth in love and grow into the full stature of Christ. Sermon Declaration: “I refuse to live a powerless or disconnected life. I choose to make love my great quest. From today, I reposition my life so that my faith is energized by love, my prayers are answered, and I walk in the total victory of God.”
Host Edith welcomes returning guest Caroline Ailanthus to discuss her new epic fantasy novel The Elf, the Dwarf and the Telegraph: Book One, the first in a trilogy. Caroline explains the story's large scope and ensemble cast, centered on three protagonists including Gwen, a transgender half-elf with a sword, in a quasi-Roman world on the brink of civil war driven by environmental justice, conservation, science, and threats to democracy. She reads an excerpt depicting a republic's destabilization and autocratic takeover aided by oligarchs, noting historical inspirations from Sherman, Grant, Lincoln, and Julius Caesar and arguing that environmental problems and political instability are connected. Caroline describes her writing process, research-heavy historical models, spreadsheet character tracking, and structuring one arc into three books, and highlights deliberate Tolkien signals, immersive “history-like” worldbuilding, adult tone without explicit sex, and neurodivergent representation through human/elf/dwarven (“Deger”) neurological differences.00:00 Welcome Back Caroline00:54 What the Book Is About03:42 Fantasy Meets Politics08:59 Reading the Prologue11:09 Origins of the Trilogy15:09 Autocrats and History Rhymes22:44 Timeless Fantasy Themes27:47 Writing Process and Characters31:40 Being Kind to Readers32:35 Managing Character POVs33:47 From Standalone to Trilogy34:37 Civil War Research Scale37:53 Where to Split Books41:35 Is Tolkien Still King45:11 Dwarves and Representation48:26 Dark Ages and Paper53:42 Why Read This Book57:03 Neurodivergent Protagonists59:55 Closing Thanks and WrapIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee. You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanion Follow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/book_companion Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uA Feedback is always welcome: bookcompanioncontact@gmail.com Music: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
Send us Fan MailAI chatbots are everywhere now, and the real problem is not cheating or convenience. It is what happens to your brain when a tool offers a confident answer before you have wrestled with the evidence. We break down a fascinating study on generative AI and critical thinking that puts people in a city council scenario, forces a decision under time pressure, and tests how early versus late AI access changes argument quality, memory, and bias. The takeaway is practical for students, teachers, and anyone writing for work: timing matters, and “think first, then ask AI” is a stronger strategy than outsourcing the whole frame.Then we shift into pet science with a topic that hits right as spring arrives: flea and tick medication for dogs and cats. These antiparasitic drugs are effective, but new research suggests residues of common ingredients like isoxazoline can persist and enter the environment through pet waste. That raises uncomfortable questions about non-target insects, nutrient cycling, and the tradeoff between protecting our pets and protecting ecosystem health.Finally, volcanologist Dr. Sam Mitchell joins us for an Ask an Expert that moves from Antarctica to the ocean floor, where most of Earth's volcanic activity actually happens. We talk seafloor basalt, subduction zones, disaster movies worth watching, and the geology behind Olympic curling stones made from granite sourced on a tiny Scottish island. If you like science communication that connects daily life to big systems, this one is for you. Dr. Mitchell's LinksOur LinksAll our social links are here!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.All our social links are here!
In this encore episode, Kristen sits down with Dr. Kristin Neff to explore how self-compassion can help you break free from shame, quiet self-criticism, and build a more authentic and grounded relationship with yourself. You will learn: How to define self-compassion and the three core components that make it effective The difference between tender self-compassion and fierce self-compassion—and when to use each Why shame and self-criticism are so common (and how to break free from them) Practical tools and scripts to start speaking to yourself with kindness today How self-compassion impacts parenting, relationships, and your ability to set boundaries self-compassion.org If you'd like to buy any of Dr. Kristin Neff's books, please use the Amazon affiliate links below. Shopping through these links helps support the podcast at no extra cost to you! Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself Fierce Self-Compassion: How to Harness Kindness to Speak Up, Claim Your Power, and Thrive Subscribe HERE and get a free 5-day journal to begin closing the chapter on what doesn't serve you and open the door to the real you. Connect with Kristen: Get Kristen's newsletter, packed with tangible tools, resources, and inspiration Watch the episodes on YouTube Follow Kristen on Instagram Kristen's TikTok Have Kristen Speak at Your Event Disclaimer This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to you to educate you about ideas on stress management and as a self-help tool for your own use. It is not psychotherapy/counseling in any form. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. For counseling services near Indianapolis, IN, visit www.pathwaystohealingcounseling.com. Pathways to Healing Counseling's vision is to provide warm, caring, compassionate and life-changing counseling services and educational programs to individuals, couples and families in order to create learning, healing and growth.
Send us Fan MailThe most convincing health claims are the ones that feel personal, and few topics are as personal as medical cannabis for mental health. We take on a huge Lancet meta-analysis that pulled together 54 trials and thousands of participants to ask a simple question: does medical cannabis actually help anxiety, depression, and PTSD more than placebo? The answer is uncomfortable, especially given how common “medical marijuana for mental health” has become, and we walk through what the evidence says, where the risks may be, and why this can lead to hard but necessary conversations between patients and doctors. Then we shift to pet science based on listener requests and break down diabetes in dogs in plain language. We cover what canine diabetes mellitus is, what causes it, which dog breeds may be higher risk, and the classic symptoms owners report like increased thirst, frequent urination, increased appetite, and weight loss. We also flag diabetic ketoacidosis as an emergency, explain how diagnosis works through blood and urine testing, and outline what treatment often looks like with insulin, diet, exercise, and routine vet checkups. If you learn something, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review so more science and pet lovers can find the show.Our LinksAll our social links are here!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.All our social links are here!
Send a textSeventy thousand digits of pi is impressive, but the number that stuck with us is much scarier: about one in four high school students now reports sleeping five hours or less. We dig into the latest teen sleep deprivation data, what it means for learning, mental health, and emotional regulation, and why “just go to bed earlier” ignores adolescent circadian rhythm biology. When melatonin shifts later during puberty, early school start times can become a daily clash between the clock and the teen brain.From there we head outdoors for pet science, exploring dog sledding and mushing through a surprising lens. A survey-based study from the Czech Republic frames mushing as a human-dog partnership shaped by empathy, ecology, and even spirituality. We connect those ideas to the Iditarod, its roots in the 1925 serum run, the extreme athletic demands placed on sled dogs, and the real ethical questions that come with a dangerous sport people feel deeply about.Our Ask An Expert guest is Dr. Alex Dainis, a geneticist and science communicator who makes biochemistry unforgettable by taste testing amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. We talk sweet glycine, candy-like lysine, sulfur-packed cysteine, and why showing the process of science matters as much as the results. Alex also shares how ACS Reactions builds curiosity by running experiments where nobody knows the outcome at the start, plus her strongest argument for using honest uncertainty in science communication.If you like science news, practical context, and a few weird facts you'll repeat to your friends, hit play. Subscribe, share this with a fellow science lover, and leave a review telling us what topic you want us to tackle next.Dr. Alex Dainis' LinksTwittertwitter.com/AlexDainisInstagraminstagram.com/alex.dainisPatreonpatreon.com/AlexDainisTikToktiktok.com/@alexdainis?lang=enOur LinksAll our social links are here!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower. All our social links are here!
Send a textThink space is fast? Try outrunning time. We kick off with a clear-eyed breakdown of Project Hail Mary's core science.Using the Parker Solar Probe as our real-world speed limit, we map the math of interstellar distances to compare to the ability for Ryan Gosling to get to Tau Ceti in Project Hail Mary.Then we turn to biology's unforgiving rules. Could a years-long medically induced coma carry a crew through deep space? We explain how coma differs from sleep, why weeks mark a dangerous threshold, and the cascade of complications ICU teams fight daily—muscle wasting, clots, pneumonia, pressure injuries, and dysregulated hormones. We sketch what a future-ready, autonomous critical-care system would actually need to stabilize a human body for years, and why today's medicine isn't there yet.Our pet science segment shifts from galaxies to living rooms, dissecting a viral claim about Sweden “banning” leaving cats home alone. We clarify the Swedish Animal Welfare Act, the twice-daily human check-in guideline for cats, and why cameras don't count. You'll hear how these rules protect animal welfare without criminalizing a normal workday, and why enforcement stories online deserve a healthy fact-check. It's the same habit we apply to sci-fi: verify the source, understand the standard, and do right by the beings who rely on us.If you enjoy smart science, grounded skepticism, and practical takeaways—from relativistic travel to responsible pet care—follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a review. Your notes help more curious minds find us.Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower. All our social links are here!
Send a textA baby macaque clutching an orange plush shouldn't teach us this much about biology, but Punch does. His quiet hold on a stuffed orangutan opens a door into attachment science, stress, and how primate societies enforce rules we often mistake for cruelty. We walk through why zookeepers reached for a surrogate object, how tactile comfort supports motor development and emotional regulation, and what happens when a first-time mother and a heat wave collide with the unforgiving math of survival. Along the way, we examine the “bullying” clips through a scientific lens—dominance, submission cues, and the essential role of maternal coaching—while celebrating glimmers of recovery as grooming and real hugs begin to replace the plush.Then we shift from the enclosure to our living rooms. Flat-faced dogs remain wildly popular, but a new UK study across 14 brachycephalic breeds quantifies the toll: widespread BOAS, exercise intolerance, snorting, sleep disruption, and heat sensitivity tied to extreme skull shapes. We break down the grading scale, the stark numbers for pugs and Pekingese, and the three big drivers of risk—short muzzles, narrow nostrils, and excess fat around the airway. Not all breeds scored the same, and that's the hopeful part: careful selection can nudge beloved lines toward open airways and stronger health without abandoning them.Across both stories runs a single thread: love is better when it listens to evidence. From managing crowds around Punch to resisting the exotic pet impulse, from breeding away from extremes to helping current dogs breathe easier with weight control and heat care, small choices add up to real welfare gains. If this mix of heart and hard data resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a review so more curious minds can find us. What did you learn that changed how you see animals today?Our links - you'll find all of our social links and website links hereSupport the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower. All our social links are here!
Send a textA newborn brain can feel the pulse before it knows the tune—and that single insight opens a door into how early our minds start to organize the world. We kick off the new season by exploring two studies that hit close to home: one revealing that infants build visual categories and detect musical rhythm far earlier than many assumed, and another mapping the real‑world challenges older adults face when caring for pets they deeply love. The data is surprising, the implications are practical, and the thread running through it all is how we turn evidence into everyday decisions.Our guest, Dr. Raven the Science Maven, brings sharp insight and contagious energy to the bigger question: how do we bridge science and public life? From molecular biology to a PhD focused on communication, from catchy vaccine tracks to hosting Pfizer's Science Will Win, Raven shows how storytelling, music, and personal narrative make complex ideas land. We talk institutional barriers, the pandemic's hard lessons, why every science degree should include communication training, and how her nonprofit, The Science Haven, sparks curiosity with projects like Stellar Dreams.If you enjoy smart, human stories that connect lab findings to daily choices, tap play, subscribe, and share with a friend who loves science and pets. And if you care about better SciComm in higher education, go to make science make sense.com and add your name. Your voice helps science reach the people it's meant to serve.Dr. Baxter's Website - you'll find her podcast link and social media links hereOur links - you'll find all of our social links and website links hereSupport the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower. All our social links are here!
Being kind to your enemy is one of the most countercultural and healing choices we can make. I've come to understand that kindness does not mean approval, passivity, or self-betrayal. It means refusing to allow resentment, anger, or bitterness to take root within us. When we choose kindness, paired with healthy boundaries, we reclaim our peace and protect our emotional and physical well-being. I will share how this kind of living invites freedom, clarity, and strength, reminding us that how we respond to others ultimately shapes our own health, mindset, and capacity to live fully. Now you can listen commercial free at your leisure…Click here and let's grow together: Lillian McDermott, Being Kind to Your Enemy If you love this podcast episode, share it with a friend. The Lillian McDermott Radio Show/Classroom ~ When You Need a Friend… PREMIERE: Telegram, Facebook, YouTube, WhenYouNeedaFriend.com SUBSCRIBE, LIKE, & FOLLOW: Facebook, Instagram, X, Website, Odysee, BitChute, YouTube! LISTEN: Amazon Podcast, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, Spotify, Pandora, TuneIn, iHeartRadio! CALL or TEXT: 407-373-5959 “You can take a pill, or You can take Responsibility!” ®
Dr. Kristin Neff, pioneering self-compassion researcher, author, and teacher, talks about the power and benefits of practicing self-compassion as parents to differently wired children. In our conversation, Kristin shares what she has learned about self-compassion, both through her research and her own experiences parenting an autistic child. She goes deep into what self-compassion really looks like, why we are often more compassionate to others than ourselves, and shares some strategies for strengthening that self-compassion muscle both for ourselves and our kids. ABOUT DR. NEFF Kristin Neff is an Associate Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin. She is a pioneer in the field of self-compassion research, conducting the first empirical studies on self-compassion over fifteen years ago. She has co-developed an empirically supported training program called Mindful Self-Compassion, and is author of the books Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself, Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook, and Teaching the Mindful Self-Compassion Program: A Guide for Professionals. THINGS YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How Dr. Neff got into the work of self-compassion research What it looks like to practice self-compassion Why we judge ourselves so harshly and what keeps us from being a better self-friend What it means to practice self-comfort Strategies parents can use to accept and BE with their suffering How to teach kids and teens about self-compassion RESOURCES MENTIONED: Dr. Kristin Neff's website Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Dr. Kristin Neff The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook: A Proven Way to Accept Yourself, Build Inner Strength, and Thrive by Kristin Neff: Teaching the Mindful Self-Compassion Program: A Guide for Professionals by Kristin Neff and Christopher Germer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode, I sit down with Simon Jeffries, a former Royal Marine and Special Forces operator turned performance coach for CEOs and founders. We talk about stress, discipline, and why your thoughts and emotions are something you can train, just like your body. Simon explains how building a strong routine and personal “operating system” is what really creates control and consistency in life. This is a powerful episode for anyone who wants to perform better under pressure and take real ownership of how they show up every day.02:15 Royal Marines to Special Forces Journey05:40 Why Stress Is About Your Response, Not Events09:30 Thoughts and Emotions Are Just Data13:10 Training Your Mind Like the Gym17:45 Performance Under Pressure Explained21:30 Military Lessons for Everyday Life25:10 Building a Personal Operating System28:55 Discipline vs Motivation32:20 Handling Negative Self Talk36:05 Being Hard vs Being Kind to Yourself39:40 Celebrating Wins and Building Confidence43:15 Why Successful People Still Feel Stressed46:50 Alignment, Purpose, and Fulfilment50:40 Leaving the Military and Finding Direction54:10 Control, Freedom, and Starting Your Own Path57:30 Morning Routines of High Performers01:01:10 Phone Addiction, Focus, and Dopamine01:04:30 Setting Boundaries and Deep Work01:08:20 Mindset as a System, Not a Hack01:12:00 Training Consistency and Long-Term Change01:15:20 What Real High Performance Looks Like01:18:30 Final Lessons on Control and Discipline__________
Send us a textA father that gives birth, a horse that says “no,” and an ER doctor who wants to keep you out of the hospital—this episode brings science and everyday choices into sharp focus. We start with a mind-bending dive into seahorses, where males carry the pregnancy and build a placenta-like environment from skin. New research shows familiar pregnancy genes at work inside the brood pouch, but with an unexpected hormonal switch: androgens, not estrogens, drive gestation. It's evolution repurposing its toolkit—and a powerful reminder that sex roles in nature are more flexible than we think.From there, we move into animal-assisted therapy and the role of consent in touch. A new study comparing dogs and horses found that forced interactions with horses raised heart rate and lowered HRV, signaling more stress, while choice calmed people down. Dogs showed no significant difference between conditions, suggesting human perception and species-specific behavior shape outcomes. If you run therapy programs, the insight is simple and humane: build animal choice into sessions, especially with horses, and track long-term welfare alongside human benefits.Then ER physician Dr. Shazma Mithani joins us to turn insight into prevention. We talk helmets for anything on wheels or snow, why e‑scooters drive more severe injuries per use than bikes, and how regular checkups and screening prevent emergencies before they start. We break down wildfire smoke—how particulates inflame lungs and harm the heart and brain—plus when to wear a well-fitted N95 outside and how to upgrade home air with MERV 11–13 filters or HEPA purifiers. Finally, we tackle measles: an airborne virus that lingers for hours, demands 95% vaccination for herd immunity, and is best stopped with two doses of MMR. Unsure where to get trusted answers? Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or public health nurse, and lean on credible sources rather than influencers.If this helped you think differently about biology, safety, or public health, tap follow, share it with a friend, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway—we'll feature our favorites next week.Dr. Shazma Mithani's links:Her websiteHer PodcastInstagramOur links!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower. All our social links are here!
Send us a textCoffee may nudge biology, but only within limits. We dig into new research suggesting that three to four cups a day align with longer telomeres for people with severe mental illness, then challenge the hype with the caveats that matter: observational design, smoking as a confounder, wildly different cup sizes and brew methods, and the reality that more caffeine can erase potential benefits. We translate the science into practical guidance—why moderation beats megadoses, how 400 mg per day became a sensible upper bound, and where sleep and stress fit into the bigger picture of healthy aging.Then we pivot to a feline mystery that spans millennia. Long before house cats padded through Chinese homes, leopard cats were the stealthy mousers around early settlements, drawn by grain and the rodents it attracts. Using mitochondrial DNA from ancient remains—paired with clues from art—we trace the species shift around the eighth century as domestic cats, descended from the African wildcat, traveled the Silk Road and found their place beside people. Tameness, tolerance, and a knack for living close to humans helped them outcompete their wild cousins in a world reshaped by trade and urban life.Across both stories runs one thread: human routines create niches that biology rushes to fill. Our cups change our days at a cellular level, and our granaries and roads alter which animals share our spaces. If you love clear science, a bit of myth-busting, and the unexpected link between breakfast and ancient history, you'll feel right at home here. If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves coffee or cats, and leave a quick review—what surprised you most?Here is the link to all our socials and stuff!!!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower. All our social links are here!
In Episode You Will Discover: Why ADHD impatience happens in the brain and body How "trying harder" actually makes impatience worse The mindset shift that helps everything Four ADHD-friendly strategies to build real-world patience Work With Me:
Send us a textWhen the brain gets knocked, it fights back—at least for a while. We open with new research that uses ALPS MRI to watch the glymphatic “waste rivers” of the brain as they surge after repeated head impacts and then falter when the system is pushed too far. That real-time look at fluid flow explains why early symptoms can be misleading and why rest, recovery windows, and better sideline calls aren't just policy—they're neuroprotection. We talk sports protocols, long-term risk, and how biomarkers could warn athletes before decline sets in.Then we lean into joy with rigor. Our pet science segment dives into a Cambridge study of more than a thousand golden retrievers showing that genes tied to trainability, fear of strangers, energy, and dog-to-dog aggression overlap with human genes for anxiety, depression, and intelligence. It's not destiny; it's sensitivity. We unpack how emotional regulation genes shape learning and coping, why some “bad” behavior is actually distress, and how training plans can be kinder and more effective when they support the nervous system, not just reward the behavior.To cap it off, we welcome John Reider,, the chief bubble dude behind Atomic Bubbles, for a whimsical masterclass in safe, scented bubbles for pets. He breaks down cosmetic-grade ingredients, water-soluble fragrances, and machine-friendly formulas that make durable bubbles dogs and cats actually chase. We explore lavender and pheromone-infused bubbles as floating diffusers for calming anxious pets, plus practical notes on storage, allergy concerns, and why bacon and peanut butter scents work without real allergens.Curious about brain health, dog behavior, and the science of pure fun? Hit play, subscribe for more smart, warm conversations, and share this episode with a friend who loves science—and their pets.ATOMIC BUBBLES with links to their socials!Here is the link to all our socials and stuff!!!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower. All our social links are here!
Send us a textA vaccine built for a virus might be whispering a powerful message to cancer care. We dig into a new Nature paper suggesting that mRNA COVID shots could enhance the effectiveness of checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy—especially in non‑small cell lung cancer and melanoma—by acting as an immune alarm that sharpens anti‑tumor responses. The data is retrospective, not causal, so we break down why the signal is exciting, where confounders can hide, and what the next generation of trials must test: timing, vaccine type, biomarkers, and who stands to benefit most.From there, we switch gears to the first weeks of a dog's life. A small but detailed study of Australian breeders maps nine practical socialization steps—novel objects, varied surfaces, calibrated sound exposure, hands‑on handling, human visitors, other animals, off‑site trips, car rides, and rotating environments—that build confident, adaptable companions. We compare three rearing strategies, from uniform protocols to individual puppy plans, and connect these choices to fewer fear issues, better training outcomes, and smoother vet and grooming visits down the line.Journalist and author Melanie Kaplan joins us to share Hammy's story—a beagle rescued from a research lab—and the deeper reporting behind her book, Lab Dog: A Beagle and His Human Investigate the Surprising World of Animal Research. We talk about why beagles became the default lab dog, the emotional toll and resilience of retired animals, and the promising rise of non‑animal alternatives like organs‑on‑chips, human cell models, and computational toxicology. With FDA and NIH signaling support for methods that are more humane and more predictive, there's a real path to better science with less harm.If this conversation moved you or made you think, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves science and animals, and leave a quick review to help others find us.Links to Melanie's Book and SocialsHere is the link to all our socials and stuff!!!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower. All our social links are here!
This week we're discussing The Truth We Don't Want to Face. When betrayal, ongoing conflict, or a child's escalating behavior keeps reopening old wounds, it's easy to reduce people to their worst moments. That mindset feels protective, yet it shrinks our capacity for peace, models bitterness to our kids, and keeps us tethered to pain. Marissa Lee, author and single parent, joins Robert and Elizabeth to unpack how learning to separate a person's worth from their actions helps us heal, set clearer boundaries, and stay grounded in dignity—ours and theirs. Today, we cover three main points: Contempt dehumanizes. What contempt looks like, how it spreads in our homes and culture, and why it leaves relationships stuck. Compassion expands our capacity. How extending dignity to others softens the shame within us and frees our energy for what matters. Practical ways to see worth. Simple, repeatable steps to move from judgment to curiosity, from reactivity to agency, including naming our feelings, resetting expectations, and choosing actions that align with our values. Seeing someone's humanity isn't excusing harm—it's refusing to let contempt define you. Curiosity builds bridges; ask "why" before deciding "who" someone is. Your children feel how you speak about the other parent, and honoring their other parent protects your child's sense of self. Boundaries require agency—state what you will do and follow through. Resources Mentioned In This Episode The Gottman Institute – Research from Dr. John Gottman on how contempt is one of the strongest predictors of relationship breakdown. Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Kristin Neff – A book exploring how self-compassion can heal shame and foster emotional resilience. Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend – A guide to setting healthy limits that protect your peace and relationships. Dr. Becky at Good Inside – A parenting resource offering practical tools for setting structure, building connection, and guiding kids through emotional growth. We want to answer any Solo Parent questions you may have. Submit your listener questions HERE. Full Show Notes Learn more about Solo Parent Follow us on Instagram
Send us a textEver wonder how a pumpkin could help clean a toxic field—and why your dog might boost your mood as much as a wedding ring? We unpack both, starting with fresh research from Kobe University that reveals how a small amino acid tag on major latex-like proteins pushes pollutants into plant sap. That single routing decision explains why some gourds move stubborn chemicals like PCBs all the way to their fruits, illuminating both the promise of phytoremediation and the risk if contaminated soils meet our dinner tables. We talk practical implications for agriculture too—how breeders and bioengineers could tune protein binding and secretion to create safer crops while using separate plots for soil cleanup.Then we turn to the science of happiness with a study that estimates cats and dogs can elevate life satisfaction on par with being married or seeing friends often. The researchers used instrumental variables to tease causation, not just correlation, and the findings match what many of us feel: pets reduce loneliness, add structure, and get us moving. We dig into the nuance—pets offer deep comfort and presence, while people bring complex emotional and intellectual support—and why the best lives layer both.If this mix of plant science, pet happiness, and real-world tips resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more curious listeners can find us.Here is the link to all our socials and stuff!!!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower. All our social links are here!
Sometimes, forgiving ourselves can be really hard. And not only the process, but also the long-lasting repercussions of not being able to accept our human flaws and move forward, to let go of a painful past and move forward with more hope and light. In this episode we are talking about how to forgive ourselves and what to do when the other person doesn't forgive you. Thanks for listening! Want to learn more about this concept? Check out these podcasts: #33 Forgiving Yourself on Apple on Spotify #55 Don't Should Yourself on Apple on Spotify #83 Self-Honesty on Apple on Spotify #113 Self-Acceptance on Apple on Spotify #116 The Peace of Imperfection on Apple on Spotify #179 Being Kind to Yourself on Apple on Spotify #217 Self-Respect and Being Wrong on Apple on Spotify #225 Shame, Blame, and Disempowerment on Apple on Spotify #272 Stay In Your Lane on Apple on Spotify #274 When We Behave Badly on Apple on Spotify #327 Learning to Love Your Human Self on Apple on Spotify #331 Sense of Self on Apple on Spotify #332 Sense of Self – It's All In Your Head on Apple on Spotify #351 Grace, Shame, and Letting Yourself Off the Hook on Apple on Spotify Are you curious about what it would be like to work with me? Here are three options: Group coaching classes are available at tanyahale.com/groupcoaching Talk with Tanya is a free monthly webinar where you can ask me anything and we can have a great discussion. You can sign up for that at tanyahale.com/groupcoaching Interested in a free 90-minute coaching/consult with me? Access my calendar at: https://tanyahalecalendar.as.me/
Send us a textA top predator that “wastes” food and ends up feeding an entire ecosystem? That paradox sits at the heart of our latest exploration into polar bear behavior and the hidden scaffolding of the Arctic food web. We unpack new research estimating that each polar bear leaves roughly 300 kilograms of edible remains annually—amounting to millions of kilograms across the region—and why those leftovers are vital calories for Arctic foxes, ravens, gulls, snowy owls, and even wolves. By focusing on blubber for maximum energy return, polar bears inadvertently act as providers in a landscape where every calorie matters, and we trace how shrinking sea ice threatens not just bears but the scavengers who depend on their kills.From icy shores to living rooms, we then tackle a beloved belief: can dogs judge human character? A Kyoto University study with 40 pet dogs put that idea to the test using a generous-versus-selfish setup. The result: no reliable preference for the kind human, even after direct interaction. We break down what this means for canine social cognition, why food-based tasks may miss the mark, and how ethics limit what scientists can test. Rather than a simple moral radar, dogs may rely on a complex blend of context, prior reinforcement, and human cues that are hard to capture in a two-choice experiment.Along the way, we share field notes from polar bear country, practical insights for interpreting your dog's behavior without overreading the wag, and a clear view of how climate change reshapes energy flows you rarely hear about. If you care about wildlife science, animal behavior, or how small choices ripple through entire systems, this one offers fresh data and useful takeaways.Enjoy the show? Follow, share, and leave a quick review to help more curious listeners find us. Got a story or question we should cover next? Drop it in the comments and join the conversation.Here is the link to all our socials and stuff!!!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower. All our social links are here!
Send us a textThe sky went dark at midday, the temperature dipped, and a continent held its breath. We chased the total solar eclipse to Texas and came back with more than a memory—fresh science on how birds react when day vanishes and returns a few minutes later. Leveraging a blend of community observations, autonomous recorders, and BirdNET machine learning, researchers tracked behavior from Mexico to Canada and found a clear pattern: movement slowed during totality while vocalizations spiked, followed by a pseudo-dawn burst when the light returned. Some species, like American Robins and Barred Owls, showed dramatic shifts; others didn't budge, pointing to species-specific sensitivity to light.That sudden flip from light to dark is more than a spectacle—it's a powerful biological cue. We connect the dots to artificial light at night, from migration disruptions to window strikes, and explore how city lighting policies and dark-sky practices can protect wildlife without sacrificing safety. When the whole sky changes at once, you see how deeply behavior is tuned to brightness. It's a rare, elegant experiment you can't reproduce in a lab, and it gives us practical guidance for urban design and conservation.Back on the home front, we turn to a concern every family with pets and kids faces: children often misread dog body language. New data show that four- to seven-year-olds frequently mistake angry dog faces for happy ones, with high error rates even at seven. Most bites happen at home, during child-initiated contact, and without supervision. We share simple, actionable steps—teach a few key cues, keep greetings calm, supervise play, and give dogs guaranteed safe spaces—to preserve the empathy and comfort dogs bring while lowering risk.If you love science, animals, and practical insights that make life better, this one's for you. Our links!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower. All our social links are here!
Send us a textA newborn with higher pTau217 than an adult with Alzheimer's—what would that mean for how we detect, define, and treat dementia? We dive into a startling new finding that reframes tau phosphorylation as a dynamic, reversible process rather than a one-way street. From the costs and tradeoffs of PET scans and CSF analysis to the promise of new blood tests, we lay out how clinicians navigate biomarkers and why context matters. If babies and even hibernating animals can toggle tau safely, we might be looking at a new horizon for Alzheimer's research—one that prioritizes regulation over blunt suppression and respects the difference between signals and symptoms.Then we turn to our dogs and a different kind of brain science: play that looks a lot like behavioral addiction. In a study of high-drive pets, some dogs pursued play so intensely they ignored food and struggled to settle once the toy disappeared. The kicker? It's not the toy—it's the play. We unpack how anticipation and reward loops shape behavior, why shepherds and terriers tend to lean in hard, and how to channel that energy with structured games, clear start/stop cues, and decompression routines that protect both joy and well-being.Our guest, Dr. Nancy Kay—veterinarian and small animal internal medicine specialist—brings practical wisdom to family life with pets. She explains how to choose a dog that truly fits a home with kids, why supervision and respect rules beat wishful thinking, and how to steer clear of puppy mills and dog auctions with two simple safeguards: never buy from pet stores and never purchase sight unseen. We talk about her middle-grade novel, “A Dog Named 647,” her advocacy guide “Speaking for Spot,” and the unforgettable cases that come with a life in medicine—from swallowed treasures to high-stakes rescues. It's science that matters, compassion that lasts, and stories that stick.Enjoy the conversation? Follow, share with a friend, and leave a quick review to help more curious listeners find the show.Dr. Nancy's Links:A Dog Named 647Her WebsiteOur links!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
Send us a textImagine fixing a fracture with a steady hand and a smart pen. We open the lab door on a handheld “bone printer” that lays down bio‑ink directly at the injury site, promising faster healing, fewer imaging steps, and the chance to customize strength and shape in minutes. If you've ever waited days for scans and fabrication, the appeal is obvious: hydroxyapatite to encourage bone growth, PCL as a biocompatible scaffold that melts at low heat, cools fast, and slowly yields to living tissue. Early tests on rabbit femurs outperformed bone cement and showed no infections over 12 weeks, and the potential to embed antibiotics or growth factors hints at on‑the‑spot, personalized implants that could transform orthopedics, trauma care, and remote medicine.Then we pivot from bones to benevolence with one big question: do pets change how people give? Using a decade of 787,877,198 donation transactions, we map the patterns. Non‑pet owners tend to donate larger totals, yet pet owners give more frequently, keeping support flowing between big gifts. Cat owners spread donations across more causes and contribute more overall than dog owners, while dog people still outpace non‑owners in cadence. A machine‑learning model puts pet ownership as the fourth strongest predictor of giving—behind income, education, and gender—suggesting pets reflect social ties and daily acts of care that nudge generosity. We also unpack identity signals and what they mean for smarter, kinder fundraising that respects budgets and habits.It's a journey from bio‑materials to behavioral data, but the throughline is practical empathy: tools that speed healing, and insights that make community support steadier and more inclusive. If you enjoy science that touches daily life—medicine you can hold, and generosity you can measure—this one's for you.Our all links to social media and more!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
Send us a textAfter a two-week hiatus dealing with shipping challenges and postal strikes, Jason and Chris return with exciting scientific breakthroughs and heartwarming pet insights. Their absence was filled with stuffy reshipping adventures and a memorable Comic-Con appearance with their super-dog companions.The episode features a remarkable development in Huntington's disease treatment – a devastating neurodegenerative condition affecting 7 in 100,000 people worldwide. A pioneering gene therapy trial using microRNA delivered via viral vectors directly to the brain has shown unprecedented success in slowing disease progression. Patients receiving the highest dose demonstrated 75% less decline in cognitive and motor symptoms compared to untreated individuals. While invasive and still pending regulatory approval, this breakthrough offers genuine hope for patients and families who've endured decades of despair. Beyond Huntington's, this approach could potentially revolutionize treatments for other neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's.The pet science segment reveals fascinating research about canine cognition, particularly how "gifted" dogs mentally categorize toys by function rather than appearance. Border collies demonstrated an ability to classify toys based solely on how they're used in play – whether for throwing or tugging – without relying on verbal cues. This suggests dogs possess cognitive flexibility comparable to human toddlers, understanding not just words but concepts. The study highlights how our canine companions don't merely memorize but actually comprehend and apply knowledge functionally, raising profound questions about their cognitive abilities.Our all links to social media and more!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
Send us a textFascinating new research reveals how catching a common cold may provide surprising protection against COVID-19, reducing infection risk by 50% and viral load by tenfold. We explore the science behind this finding and why children might experience milder COVID symptoms thanks to their frequent colds.• Recent study shows having a cold in the previous month led to 50% lower risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2• Participants with recent colds showed tenfold lower COVID-19 viral loads• Common colds trigger production of airway defense proteins that stay active and help fight other infections• Children have higher activation of these defense proteins and catch colds more frequently• "Cross protection" may explain why kids often had milder or asymptomatic COVID cases• This was an observational study before vaccines were availableWe also dive into canine obesity research, examining why 50% of US dogs are overweight and what pet parents can do about it:• Overweight dogs may live 2.5 years less than dogs at ideal weight• Retrievers and spaniels show 10% higher food motivation than average• Labrador retrievers have a genetic mutation (POMC gene) that prevents feeling full• Multi-dog households and urban environments increase food motivation• Body condition scoring (BCS) is an underutilized clinical tool for monitoring weight• Structured feeding times, measured portions, exercise, and food puzzles help manage weightOur all links to social media and more!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
How we care for ourselves is inextricably connected to how we lead.In a culture where we moralize health and sell wellness as a symbol of worth, where we're obsessed with productivity and optimization, our relationships with food and our bodies go beyond personal struggles.They shape how we lead, how we show up for others, and how we define success. When leaders model extreme routines, restrictive regimens, or performance-based wellness, they may unintentionally perpetuate shame and comparison–even if they intend to inspire or be helpful.This isn't a dismissal of health. Caring for our bodies, feeding ourselves well, and seeking movement that feels good and helps our bodies be strong are powerful acts of self-respect. But when an obsession with performance and purity–whether through hustle culture or “clean” living–erodes our self-trust and amplifies our inner critics, it becomes a leadership issue.Today's guest is an eating disorder specialist who understands how shame, perfectionism, and chronic striving get tangled up in how we feed and care for ourselves, and how we show up in the world. Unburdening our relationship with food and body isn't just about health; it's a powerful leadership move.As a clinical psychologist, Dr. Jeanne Catanzaro has specialized in treating eating issues and trauma for close to 30 years. She trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) before discovering the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model. Dr. Catanzaro served as the director of a day treatment program for eating disorders for two years and is currently the Vice President of the Internal Family Systems Institute. She is the author of the book, Unburdened Eating: Healing Your Relationships with Food and Your Body Using an Internal Family Systems Approach.Listen to the full episode to hear:Why unburdening our relationship with food and body is a continual process, not a three-step planHow to approach your motivations for how you eat and exercise with curiosity and compassionHow diet culture isn't just about weight, but reflects wider cultural and systemic beliefs about bodies, health, beauty, and worthHow value judgments about how we and others eat protect us from vulnerability and reinforce hierarchiesWhy it's impossible to fixate on your own body without your self-judgment rubbing off onto othersCommon wellness traps that can feed our inner managers and protectors at the expense of our core self-knowledgeLearn more about Dr. Jeanne Catanzaro:WebsiteUnburdened Eating: Healing Your Relationships with Food and Your Body Using an Internal Family Systems ApproachLearn more about Rebecca:rebeccaching.comWork With RebeccaThe Unburdened Leader on SubstackSign up for the weekly Unburdened Leader EmailResources:Health Food Junkies Orthorexia Nervosa: Overcoming the Obsession with Healthful Eating, Steven Bratman, David KnightHealth At Every Size: The Surprising Truth About Your Weight, Lindo BaconHealth at Every Size® (HAES®) Principles – ASDAHSelf-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself, Dr. Kristin NeffJessica WilsonSonya Renee TaylorSabrina StringsDa'Shaun HarrisonJessica KnurickEvelyn TriboleWhy Can't Americans Sleep? - Jennifer Senior, The AtlanticOriginal Sin: President Biden's Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again, Jake Tapper, Alex ThompsonCeleste, Pete KuzmaLincoln's DilemmaThe Great British Baking ShowThe Breakfast ClubThe Buggles - Video Killed The Radio Star
Being Kind to All People | This Is Us – Week 4 |
Send us a textThe Science Podcast explores surprising research that challenges conventional wisdom about dietary protein and cancer mortality while also examining how cats with dementia could unlock mysteries of human Alzheimer's disease. Water expert Cydian Kauffman reveals shocking truths about drinking water safety standards and the presence of "forever chemicals" in our water supply.• New study shows animal protein may have a slight protective effect against cancer mortality• Research contradicts previous findings that animal protein increases death risk• Plant protein showed no association with mortality rates from any cause• Cats naturally develop amyloid beta plaques similar to those in human Alzheimer's patients• Studying feline dementia could lead to breakthroughs for both species• EPA's legal limits for water contaminants are higher than health limits due to cost considerations• PFAS "forever chemicals" present in water at extremely low but harmful concentrations• Reverse osmosis systems now more affordable for home water treatment• Water access directly impacts gender equality in developing regions• Testing well water crucial as dangerous contaminants like arsenic are odorless and tastelessPure Water NorthwestOur all links to social media and more!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
Oath and Pledge Share! Josh Roe and John Ballinger: The Power Behind Getting Veterans to Share Their Stories, Being Kind, Leadership, Wearing Masks, and MUCH MORE! THIS IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE CONVERSATIONS SO FAR! A podcast centered around our soldiers, veterans, and the civilians they protect! Through conversations, questions, and stories - we will address topics like healthcare, lessons learned, relationships, combat, the transition out of the military, and more! Our veterans take an oath - we say a pledge - what does that mean and why are they important?! Co-hosted by Eric Buchanan - Navy / Josh Roe - Marines / John Ballinger - Army / Jason Smith - Army Powered by: Kubota of Chattanooga - https://kubotaofchattanooga.com/ ALL THINGS JEFF STYLES: www.thejeffstyles.com PART OF THE NOOGA PODCAST NETWORK: www.noogapodcasts.com Please consider leaving us a review on Apple and giving us a share to your friends! This podcast is powered by ZenCast.fm
Send us a textWe explore fascinating examples of mutualism in nature and therapeutic relationships between humans and animals through two distinct scientific studies.• Squamillaria plants in Fiji function as apartment buildings for up to five different ant species• These plants have internal chambers with separate entrances preventing deadly conflicts between rival ant colonies• When chamber walls are broken, ants engage in fatal battles lasting only 30 minutes• The plant benefits from ant waste providing nutrients while ants receive safe housing• Some ant species even plant seeds in nearby bark, acting as farmers for their future homes• Facility dogs in physical therapy settings help patients persist 2.6 minutes longer in rehabilitation tasks• Participants without dogs at home showed even greater improvement with a facility dog present• Dogs may improve therapy outcomes through positive distraction and emotional support• First tasks with dogs present showed lower pain and heart rate measurements• Our own pets Bunsen, Beaker, and Bernoulli would need training before becoming therapy animalsOur all links to social media and more!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
Send us a textOn this episode we look at the tsunamis that weren't from the Russian megaquake, and which dog breeds are super super hungry all the time.• Earthquake occurred in the Kural Kamchatka subduction zone where the Pacific plate slides under the Okhotsk plate at 75mm per year• Logarithmic earthquake scales mean each magnitude increase represents 10x more energy• Despite the earthquake's strength, the rupture didn't reach the seafloor, limiting tsunami development• Hawaiian and California coasts saw modest waves of 1-1.5 meters, far less than feared• Historical tsunamis like the 2004 Indian Ocean disaster (227,000+ deaths) demonstrate the potential danger• Texas A&M study of 15,000 dog owners reveals which breeds have highest "food motivation scores"• Sporting breeds like Labs and Golden Retrievers are 10% more likely to overeat than mixed breeds• Hound breeds (beagles, dachshunds) follow at 5.3% higher likelihood• City dogs and those in multi-dog households more prone to weight issues• Maintaining healthy dog weight reduces risks of diabetes, arthritis, and skin diseaseIf you enjoy our content, consider joining our Patreon community at the Top Dogs level to support the Science Podcast.Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
Send us a textPet Chat today has a special guest: Wildlife rehabilitator Janie Girardin who shares her experiences caring for orphaned and injured animals at Spicy Paws Wildlife Sanctuary, explaining the delicate process of rehabilitation and eventual release back to nature.• Specializes in rehabilitating squirrels, rabbits, songbirds, and fawns• Currently caring for eight baby squirrels, five rabbits, and six fawns• Animals typically come into care when orphaned, injured, or showing distress signals• Uses a "soft release" approach, allowing animals to transition gradually back to the wild• Minimizes human contact to ensure animals retain their wild instincts• Explains how to tell when wildlife truly needs human assistance• Debunks myth that touching baby birds causes mother rejection• Advises keeping distressed wildlife "warm, dark and quiet" until professional help arrives• Warns against feeding baby animals without professional guidance• Becoming a rehabilitator requires specific training, testing, and licensingIf you'd like to support Spicy Paws Wildlife Sanctuary, visit their Facebook page.Our links:Our Website! www.bunsenbernerbmd.comSign up for our Weekly Newsletter!Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:Bunsen and Beaker on TikTokSupport the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
Send us a textIn this episode we explore scientific findings about optimal daily step counts, genetic predispositions for having children of the same sex, and how dogs perceive and interact with television.• Research shows 7,000 steps per day is the health "sweet spot," not the commonly cited 10,000• At 7,000 steps, studies found 25% reduced cardiovascular disease risk, 37% lower cancer risk, and 38% decreased dementia-related deaths• Even modest increases from baseline (2,000 steps) show significant health benefits• Genetic study reveals some families may be predisposed to having children of primarily one sex• Older mothers showed strongest patterns of same-sex children, possibly due to biological mechanisms• Two gene variants identified that correlate with having all male or all female children• Modern LED TVs allow dogs to see continuous motion unlike older TVs• Dogs primarily see blue and yellow colors and 45% react to other dogs on screen• A dog's personality, not breed or age, determines their interest in television• Anxious dogs may find TV overstimulating rather than enrichingOur links:Our Website! www.bunsenbernerbmd.comSign up for our Weekly Newsletter!Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:Bunsen and Beaker on TikTokSupport the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
Send us a textJohnny Heim, pet artist extraordinaire, shares his journey from childhood drawings of Snoopy to creating art that has raised thousands of dollars for animal rescues worldwide.• Started drawing as a child in Winnipeg, perfecting his Snoopy technique during long winters• Won a shrine circus poster contest in grade six, realizing art could bring tangible rewards• Drew attention with his "Shark Attack" clothing line while in university• Used drawing skills in advertising career to help visualize concepts for clients• Reconnected with art during COVID and began focusing on pet portraits• Raised over $10,000 with his "We're All Made of Stars" portrait series in memory of Kuno• Creates all artwork traditionally with ink and paper, no digital tools• Lives by the motto "I draw because they can't" as motivation for his work• Collaborates with rescue organizations to raise funds through his artwork• Helps tell the stories of rescue animals through projects like "Unleashing Tales" books• Currently lives with Olive, his 8-year-old French Bulldog who "lets him live in her house"• Finds the most joy when people connect emotionally with his portraits of their petsEmail johnny.heim@gmail.com to inquire about commissions. Find his work on X @JohnHeim or Instagram @art_by_heim.Our links:Our Website! www.bunsenbernerbmd.comSign up for our Weekly Newsletter!Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:Bunsen and Beaker on TikTokSupport the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
Send us a textWe dive into the environmental impact of AI technologies and explore the science behind how pet touch affects human well-being.• Generative AI consumes significant energy with a ChatGPT query using approximately 10 times more energy than a Google search• By 2028, data centers could account for 12% of US energy use, up from 4.4% currently• Companies rarely disclose the true energy costs of training and running AI models• Smaller AI models can achieve similar results with dramatically lower carbon footprints• Practical solutions include choosing efficient models, using AI during off-peak hours, and minimizing unnecessary words in prompts• Recent study of 443 pet owners shows both giving and receiving touch contributes to owner well-being• Stroking pets shows stronger positive effects on well-being than hugging or holding• Pet leaning behavior (like when dogs press against their owners) is particularly beneficial for emotional health• The act of giving touch to pets may be more beneficial than receiving touch from them• The physical mechanisms of touch involve specialized nerve fibers that respond differently in hairy versus non-hairy skinOur links:Our Website! www.bunsenbernerbmd.comSign up for our Weekly Newsletter!Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:Bunsen and Beaker on TikTokSupport the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
Send us a textWe explore groundbreaking science developments from space discovery to environmental innovation and canine intuition. The James Webb Space Telescope has directly imaged an exoplanet for the first time, marking a pivotal moment in our quest to understand distant worlds.• JWST captures first direct image of an exoplanet orbiting star TWA7, 111 light-years away• The Saturn-sized planet orbits 52 astronomical units from its star within a gap in the star's dusty debris disk• Scientists used a coronagraph to block the star's light, enabling them to see the much dimmer planet• Researchers genetically engineered E. coli bacteria to convert plastic waste into acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol• The bacteria achieved 92% conversion efficiency in 48 hours, offering potential solutions for plastic pollution and sustainable pharmaceutical production• Though promising, this process is not yet scalable for industrial applications• Study reveals 65% of participants noticed behavior changes in their dogs during pregnancy• 27% reported these changes occurred before they knew they were pregnant• Dogs showed increased attention-seeking, guarding behavior, and anxiety around other dogs• Canines can detect changes in human biochemistry, emotions, and scent during pregnancyIf your dog detected your pregnancy before you knew, we'd love to hear your story! Check out our Patreon at the link in show notes to support the podcast and join our Paw Pack community.Our links:Our Website! www.bunsenbernerbmd.comSign up for our Weekly Newsletter!Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:Bunsen and Beaker on TikTokSupport the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
Send us a textJason an Kris share updates on their dogs Bunsen, Beaker, and Bernoulli, as well as cat Ginger, covering health updates, socialization progress, and hilarious escape stories.• Bunsen has recovered better than expected from his health issues but remains on-leash for safety• Ginger was a rescue whose name felt perfect without needing a science-themed replacement• Beaker has overcome socialization challenges through regular visits to doggy daycare• Bernoulli has discovered an unexpected friendship with miniature horses at a new care facility• Ginger has mastered multiple escape techniques, including using Bernoulli as an unwitting accomplice• Beaker provided comfort to students during final exams, showing her progress with strangers• The Fun Facts with Bernoulli book is completed and will soon be available in the store• The Bernoulli pre-sale stuffy opportunity remains open until the end of JunePet Chat will be on hiatus for the next two weeks, returning July 19th with special guest artist John Heim.Our links:Our Website! www.bunsenbernerbmd.comSign up for our Weekly Newsletter!Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:Bunsen and Beaker on TikTokSupport the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
Send us a textWe celebrate a milestone of 200,000 Instagram followers, reflecting on how their platform has grown from a "ghost town" into a thriving community where cute dogs help deliver science education.• The hosts share updates about their dogs, including Bunsen's recovery progress• Jason shares exciting wildlife footage captured on their trail cam, featuring a great horned owl• Community member Holly recounts the story of her cat Toby escaping through an unlatched door• Paula shares her experience rescuing a robin fledgling and connecting with a wildlife rehabilitator•Kris tells the story of rescuing a great horned owl that was later rehabilitated and released• The hosts and community members discuss the importance of proper wildlife rescue protocols• Bunsen and Ginger's "Operation Beauty and the Beast" team-up to raid the cat foodJoin us next Saturday for another episode of Pet Chat, and Paw Pack members can catch us tomorrow for our special community chat.Our links:Our Website! www.bunsenbernerbmd.comSign up for our Weekly Newsletter!Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:Bunsen and Beaker on TikTokSupport the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
NEW EPISODE: "Why Chasing Excellence Might Be Wrecking Your Life" Today on Newberg Pod, I'm talking about the toxic pressure to be perfect — and why it's okay to just be... okay. I dig into the myth of constant self-improvement, how being nice to yourself might actually get you further, and why your flaws are often your funniest strengths. Plus: why comedy shows with "themes" usually are weird, and how pretending to play war as a kid is wildly different from watching adults turn it into a job. This one's sharp, funny, and might actually make you feel better about being human. Checkout Newberg Pod wherever you stream or https://youtu.be/KA8Xsxvh-YE
Send us a textInnovations in science are making daily life better through passive cooling paint and insights into pet interactions. In the Science News section we explore technologies that could transform how we maintain comfortable living spaces and manage our emotions at work.• Cement-based cooling paint from Nyang Technological University uses three cooling strategies: radiative cooling, evaporative cooling, and solar reflection• The specialized paint maintains effectiveness after two years of testing, reflecting 88-92% of sunlight while conventional paints yellow and lose performance• Buildings using this paint required 30-40% less electricity for air conditioning, potentially reducing urban heat islands• Research shows looking at photos of your own dog (not random dogs or cats) significantly reduces anger and aggressive intentThe Guest in Ask an Expert...• Dr. Lori Palen discusses how data communication bridges the gap between scientific discovery and real-world impact• Data Soapbox helps scientists translate complex findings into accessible, engaging content that drives positive change• Science communication needs to be planned from the outset rather than treated as an afterthoughtDr. Palen's linksData Soap Box: https://datasoapbox.com/Dr. Palen on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/loripalen.bsky.socialOur links:Our Website! www.bunsenbernerbmd.comSign up for our Weekly Newsletter!Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:Bunsen and Beaker on TikTokSupport the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
Send us a textWe explore the physics behind making the biggest splash in pool jumping and examine a promising new non-opioid painkiller that could revolutionize pain management without addiction risks. Our investigation into canine health reveals which dog breeds are most prone to diarrhea—with some surprising findings for particular designer breeds.• The science of Manu jumping reveals a precise 45-degree entry angle with V-shaped body posture creates the biggest pool splash• Underwater backward roll and leg extension forms an air pocket that collapses to create maximum splash height• New experimental drug SBI-810 targets pain pathways without causing addiction or euphoria• This non-opioid painkiller outperformed newer opioids in animal testing and could reduce reliance on addictive pain medications• Study of 2.25 million dogs shows breeds with names ending in "poo" have highest diarrhea rates• Cavapoos (14.95%), Maltese (14.6%), and Miniature Poodles (14.26%) top the list for diarrhea incidence• Most canine diarrhea cases (92%) involve only one event per year and resolve with a single vet visit• Common treatments include probiotics, dietary management, and sometimes antibiotics for more severe casesHere's a link of Manu jumping! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ogkRgkf4YAoOur links:Our Website! www.bunsenbernerbmd.comSign up for our Weekly Newsletter!Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:Bunsen and Beaker on TikTokSupport the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd
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