Learn about “tin whiskers,” the mysterious reason why your gadgets suddenly stop working; threat simulation theory and how your nightmares might be helping you survive; and why every map is lying to you.

Learn about whether “text speak” harms your literacy skills; why the s’mores recipe isn’t as old as you think; and what lead does to the human body.

Learn about the truth behind Rosalind Franklin’s contributions to science; a mental model called “forcing functions” you can use to be more thoughtful and produce better results; and, whether dogs can smell fear.

Learn about how the overview effect changes your perspective when you leave Earth; why the Calder Mercury Fountain in Barcelona pumps out pure liquid mercury; and, how researchers came up with a set of core beliefs that measure how you feel about the world.

Learn about how you’ve probably eaten glass, with Netflix’s “Blown Away” host Nick Uhas. You’ll also learn about how to tap into a positive kind of stress called eustress; and, how your unique screams can identify you.

Learn about how the ancient Greeks knew the Earth was round; why being passionate about your job can backfire; and why you shouldn’t worry if you find a hair in your food.

Learn from Cornell University physicists Paul McEuen and Itai Cohen how cell-sized robots actually communicate with each other and move around. You’ll also learn about the “uncanny valley” and how scientists figured out what part of your brain gets creeped out by human-like robots.

Learn about the truth behind harmful myths about sharks to help you celebrate Shark Week; the surprising purpose of the spiral on airplane engines; and how you can supercharge your relationships with research that shows you really do have a “type.”

Learn about what happens after your life is "fully optimized" from a special guest: Professor Joseph M. Reagle Jr., author of the new book “Hacking Life: Systematized Living and Its Discontents.” You’ll also learn why white holes could explain some of the universe’s most unexplainable characteristics — at least, if they exist.

Learn about the factors that determine how other people see you with special guest Vivian Zayas, Director of the Personality, Attachment, and Control Laboratory at Cornell University. Plus, learn about why it’s possible to ask for too much advice.

Learn about ploonets, which are moons that leave their planets; the unbelievable true story of D.D. Palmer, the first chiropractor; and, why humans kiss.

Learn about how studying ancient cities can help us plan modern cities from author Monica L. Smith, an archaeologist and professor in the department of anthropology at UCLA. Plus, learn what happens to light when you turn off the light switch.

Learn about a new phonon laser that uses sound instead of light; a counterintuitive trick to get your kids to eat vegetables; and a cognitive bias that explains why most people think they’re better than other people.

Learn about how social structures can shape how we think and behave from Matthew O. Jackson, the William D. Eberle Professor of Economics at Stanford University. Also in this podcast, Cody Gough and Ashley Hamer discuss a simple technique that will instantly make you a better listener, from this story on Curiosity.com: https://curiosity.im/2unmjoN

Learn how to make an excuse without ruining your friendships; why we’d all move a lot faster if nobody walked on the escalator; and why you might not really know whether you’re a morning or a night person, along with a questionnaire to help you figure it out.