The Pulse Archive
We can all use an assist every now and then — but asking for it can be tough. We hear stories about the struggles of asking for help.
Air Date: August 2, 2024
Listen 48:43Why megalodons have captured our imagination and what researchers have learned from their extinction
Before great white sharks, megalodons ruled the oceans. What researchers have learned about these apex predators and their extinction.
2 months ago
Listen 5:24Meet a shark fisherman who structured his life around catching, and saving, sharks
13 years ago, AJ Rotondella realized he could catch sharks from the beach. He’s been hooked ever since, even moving across states to chase sharks.
2 months ago
Listen 12:02Sharks — From Fear to Fascination
We take a deep dive into the secret lives of sharks — from their history, to the threats they face, to what makes them special.
Air Date: July 26, 2024
Listen 48:49Desperate for care, patients face the threat of ‘medical deportation'
Hospitals are legally required to care for undocumented patients in emergencies. But when a patient is too sick to be discharged, some turn to a controversial practice.
2 months ago
Listen 11:30Are financial incentives holding back cures?
A promising new cure sparked a wave of renewed interest in gene therapies about a decade ago — but it also set off alarm bells in the financial world.
2 months ago
Listen 11:55How money shapes our health care system — and our health — from doctor decisions, to medical debt, to the pharma industry.
Air Date: July 19, 2024
Listen 48:49Unearthing the Secrets of Volcanoes and Rocks
On this episode, we dive into Earth’s history with an exploration of all things geologic, from active volcanoes to the rock record.
Air Date: July 12, 2024
Listen 48:36How Amazon Revolutionized Shopping and Changed the World
Launched in a garage 30 years ago, Amazon has expanded from its humble beginnings to a global powerhouse. On this episode, we’ll explore the innovations fueling its growth.
Air Date: June 28, 2024
Listen 51:49How Amazon dominated the e-commerce market
Supply chain innovations helped the online juggernaut change the way we shop and achieve two-day delivery.
3 months ago
Listen 11:35Data centers transformed Northern Virginia’s economy, but residents are wary of more expansion
The largest concentration of data centers in the world are in northern Virginia. Amazon estimates that around 70 percent of global internet traffic goes through the area.
3 months ago
Listen 10:40When we see a familiar face, a flood of information comes rushing in. It’s an extremely important skill that we often take for granted.
Air Date: June 21, 2024
Listen 48:54Precision nutrition examines link between diet and inflammation
Diets have long been about calories, or an emphasis on different nutrients — but with precision nutrition, the approach is personalized.
3 months ago
Listen 9:00A neurologist took DIY treatments seriously. Has it sparked a breakthrough?
Rick Bedlack leads two programs dedicated to solving the mysteries of ALS.
3 months ago
Listen 13:48Want a digest of WHYY’s programs, events & stories? Sign up for our weekly newsletter.