Episodes

When you touch someone else’s skin, it often feels softer than your own — but that can’t be true for everyone. What’s really happening is a fascinating illusion rooted in how your brain perceives touch. I’ll explain this stra...

Ever notice that every restaurant kitchen has a giant exhaust fan above the stove? There’s a reason it’s required by law — and it’s not just about smoke. You probably have one at home too, but chances are you’re not using it ...

We’ve all done it — used a big fancy word to sound smarter or more impressive. But does it actually work? Research says no. In fact, the secret to sounding intelligent and confident has nothing to do with big words at all. I’...

When you’re stuck on a multiple-choice question, should you change your answer or trust your gut? Most people swear your first instinct is best — but science says otherwise. Listen as I reveal what research really shows about...

Why are the numbers 1, 2, and 3 across the top of a phone keypad but across the bottom of a calculator? It’s not random — and once you hear the logic, you’ll never look at a keypad the same way again. That’s just one of three...

Hooters has no male waiters. Isn’t that discrimination? Or could it be that men just don’t want to work there? The answer is no to both questions. Listen as I explain the answer and why it is perfectly legal. https://www.busi...

People who live the longest aren’t always the ones with the “perfect” body weight. In fact, research suggests that being slightly overweight can actually increase your life expectancy. It sounds counterintuitive, but the scie...

Your grandmother was right — you should sit up straight. Posture affects far more than your appearance. It influences your mood, productivity, and even how well you think. I begin this episode with surprising research showing...

When you ask someone to recall something from deep in their memory, watch their face — they’ll probably do something that actually helps them remember. You might do it too without realizing it. Listen as I reveal what it is a...

When you want to reach out to someone — to ask them on a date, invite them to an event, or simply connect — what’s the best way to do it? Text? Email? A phone call? Research shows one option is far more effective, and it’s no...

As people age, forgetfulness often creeps in — but not all memory loss is inevitable. In fact, some of the most common causes are preventable, and with the right strategies, memory can be protected and even improved. I’ll exp...

What really happens when two people kiss? Far more than you think. From the brain chemistry it triggers, to the subtle information you’re exchanging, to the dozens of muscles involved — kissing is a complex act with fascinati...

We are sharing an episode of On Point with Meghna Chakrabarti . On Point is a rare public space where you hear nuanced explorations of complex topics live and in real time. Meghna leads provocative conversations that help mak...

Ever notice how weekdays feel different from one another? Mondays carry a heavy vibe, while Fridays seem lighter and more exciting. Science has a fascinating explanation for why certain days have a stronger “feel” than others...

Ever wondered if there’s really a difference between hitting Restart and Shutdown on your PC? Turns out, there is — and knowing which one to use could save you a lot of frustration the next time your computer is acting up. I’...

Expiration dates aren’t always what they seem. While most packaged foods carry them, some foods — like salt — can last virtually forever. In fact, there’s a surprising list of everyday staples that can outlive the labels and ...

How you walk doesn’t just reflect your mood — it can actually shape it. Research shows that adjusting your stride can boost happiness, and even a short walk outside could be the smartest thing you do today. https://www.scienc...

If you’re stocking up on Halloween candy, do you know which treats kids actually want the most? This episode opens with a list of the top 10 most popular Halloween candies — and it may not be what you expect. https://www.cinc...

What really happens when you stand or sit up straight? More than you think. Posture affects your body and your mind in surprising ways. This episode begins with the science-backed benefits of tuning in to your posture. Sourc...

Vacations are supposed to be relaxing, but did you know there are proven ways to make them even better? Research shows that with a few simple strategies, you can maximize the happiness and memories you take away from your tri...

If you walked into your backyard and scooped up just a pinch of dirt, you’d be holding an entire underground universe in your fingers — one teeming with life and mysteries you’ve probably never imagined. I’ll reveal what’s re...

Why do people cheat when they know it’s wrong? Whether it’s on a test or in a relationship, the answer may lie in your hormones. This episode begins with surprising research that reveals the powerful role biology plays in dis...

If I showed you some photos of yourself and asked you to pick out the one that most accurately represented what you really looked like – could you do it? Listen as I begin this episode by explaining why you most likely could...

We’ve all heard the test-taking advice: “ If you’re stuck, trust your first answer.” But is that really the smart move? Research says no — and I begin this episode by explaining why going with your gut on exams might actually...