The problem with modern avocados — and the ancient solution
This episode of NPR's Shortwave delivers a biweekly roundup of fascinating science discoveries, from ancient avocados and warrior princesses to universal patterns in birdsong, all while emphasizing the importance of scientific curiosity and public support for independent journalism.
**PR
Sign up to read the full summary
Free AI-powered recaps of every episode, delivered to your inbox.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.
Guest
Elsa Chang
narrative on Short Wave
Mentions
Books, people, and resources mentioned in this episode.
People
Research & Papers
Topics
Listen to This Episode
More from Short Wave
Plot twist: We're probably way undercounting insects on Earth
Could air pollution make your memory worse?
Salty Clouds aren’t the only strange thing about this object in space
A chemical found in fish could help reinvent your sunscreen
Never had the flu? Scientists may know why
The magic — and science — of synchronous fireflies
Related episodes
From other shows on similar topics.
NPR News: 06-06-2026 10PM EDT
NPR News Now
Israel lays out conditions for any Iran nuclear deal
Global News Podcast
Human Evolution and the Power of the Mind: Science Compilation
The Why Files: Operation Podcast
What we'll eat on a warmer planet
TED Radio Hour
Things We Believed Before the Scientific Method
Stuff You Should Know
Has Therapy Gone Too Far? & The Hidden Genius of Birds
Something You Should Know
Get summaries like this every morning.
Free AI-powered recaps of Short Wave and your other favorite podcasts, delivered to your inbox.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.