Dope Labs

Semester 4 Finale Part II – Lab 084 Oct 27, 2022

In the second part of our season finale, Titi and Zakiya revisit more of their favorite labs from Semester 4 and hear updates on reproductive health, the economy, HBCU homecoming season, and more. Plus, we hear from some of you! You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at http://dopelabspodcast.com

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Semester 4 Finale Part I – Lab 083 Oct 20, 2022

The semester is nearly over, can you believe it? Titi and Zakiya revisit some of their favorite labs from semester 4 and hear updates on science denial, Monkeypox, the supply chain, cybersecurity, and more. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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In Your Feed: Social Media – Lab 082 Oct 13, 2022

Real talk: Did it really happen if it’s not on social media? Do you even exist if you’re not on the feed? These days, it seems like everyone and their dog has an IG or a TikTok account. But this ability to constantly socialize online is still relatively new for society. This week, Titi and Zakiya ask how social media may impact our well-being, attention spans, and the ways in which we communicate with one another. Guest: Dr. Jeff Hancock. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Good Tourist, Bad Tourist: The Impacts of Tourism – Lab 081 Oct 06, 2022

Is it just us, or did everyone travel this summer? The pandemic restricted far-off vacations for a while, but people seem to be flying everywhere again. Some have even set up their remote work “offices” in paradise. But before you pack your beach bag, you might want to think about how your wanderlust affects the locals. This week, Titi and Zakiya learn all about coastal tourism, the larger tourism economy, and their effects on local communities and ecologies. Guest: Sarah Stodola. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Jiggly: Shapewear Then and Now – Lab 080 Sep 29, 2022

Lizzo has Yitty, Kim has Skims, and even our favorite influencers are doing ads for waist trainers on Instagram. Shapewear is in. These aren’t your great-great-granny’s corsets…things have changed. This week, Titi and Zakiya learn about the history of shapewear and how the trends are impacting societal beauty standards. Guest: Dr. Wendy Burns-Ardolino. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com

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Dope Labs Archives: Cuffing Season Sep 22, 2022

Dope Labs will be back next week. In the meantime, here's one of our favorite Labs from the archives: Cuffing Season – Lab 001. In their very first lab ever, Titi and Zakiya dissect cuffing season using the sciences of biology, ethology, and ecology. What is it? How did it start? And how can we strategize the next time cuffing season rolls around? Guest: Dr. Paula Alejandra Trillo. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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The Current U.S. Economy: Recession, Inflation, and Interest Rates – Lab 079 Sep 15, 2022

Anyone else feel like everything is getting more expensive? That’s because it is. Inflation is driving up the cost of all our basic needs and lots of Americans are feeling the squeeze. This week, Titi and Zakiya are learning all about the current state of the U.S. economy. We’re unpacking everything from rising interest rates, to inflation, to why recessions are inevitable. Guest: Dr. Vanessa Perry. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com

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What About Your Friends Part II: Attachment Styles – Lab 078 Sep 08, 2022

We know friendship is important, but let’s be real – it gets harder to make new friends as we get older. In a follow up to What About Your Friends – Lab 026, Titi and Zakiya learn about romance in friendship, how people approach friendships differently, and how we can handle conflict with our besties. Guest: Dr. Marisa G. Franco. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Ticket Out of Town: Commercial Spaceflight – Lab 077 Sep 01, 2022

If you could go on a first-class trip to space…would you? Titi and Zakiya learn more about the history of space exploration and its origins, the rise of commercial space flights, and what we should consider as more people are going to space. Guest: Dr. Jordan Bimm. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Monkeypox: Fact vs Fiction — Lab 076 Aug 25, 2022

Monkeypox has been around for a long time. But with the recent increase in cases, the virus seems to be dominating our headlines and social feeds. Titi and Zakiya learn what Monkeypox is, how it got here, and why public health recommendations don’t always align with science. Guests: Dr. Angie Rasmussen and Kenyon Farrow. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at http://dopelabspodcast.com.

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Can You Change Someone’s Mind? – Lab 075 Aug 18, 2022

We’ve all seen things blow up in the comments section on social media! And this week, we’re asking ‘how do you change someone’s mind’? We’re asking how we make up our mind, what happens when someone tries to change it, and why we see strong reactions when debating topics big and small. Guest: David McRaney. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at http://dopelabspodcast.com.

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Forever Chemicals: PFAs in Food Packaging – Lab 074 Aug 11, 2022

This week we’re talking all about the chemicals found in food packaging and how they impact our bodies and the environment. Guest: Justin Boucher. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Oysters & Aquaculture: On the Half Shell – Lab 073 Aug 04, 2022

This week we’re celebrating National Oyster Day! We’re talking all about shellfish aquaculture and how cultivating oysters fits into our economy, environment, and our changing climate. Guest: Dr. Bill Walton. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Mind the Digital Gap – Lab 072 Jul 28, 2022

It feels like everyone is online these days, but is that really the case? In this lab, Titi and Zakiya discuss the state of internet access in the US, digital disparities in minoritized communities, and how algorithm bias affects us in real life. Guest: Dr. Nicol Turner-Lee. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Semiconductor Chip Shortage – Lab 071 Jul 21, 2022

There are chips in every computing device out there, from refrigerators to smart phones to cars. They are vital to how our world runs – and right now, there's a shortage. Titi and Zakiya learn what’s behind the shortage and what’s being done to close the gap. Guest: Al Thompson. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Full Set: Nails – Lab 070 Jul 14, 2022

Nail art and nail styling has been trending in mainstream culture, and this week we’re talking all about it! This week, Titi and Zakiya are discussing the history and culture behind nails, the intimate relationship between nails techs and their clients, as well as some of the health, safety, and labor issues affecting the industry. Guest: Crystal Kayiza. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

Watch See You Next Time: https://www.newyorker.com/video/watch/the-new-yorker-documentary-the-special-bonds-between-nail-artists-and-clients

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Dope Labs Archives: The Cookout – Lab 012 Jul 07, 2022

Dope Labs will be back next week. In the meantime, here's one of our favorite Labs from the archives: The Cookout – Lab 012. There is nothing Zakiya loves more than having a cookout and Titi… loves to eat. Especially Z’s spiral cut hotdogs. So grab a drink, put on your cookout best, and get comfortable. We are taking you through taste, flavor, and the science behind the perfect bbq method. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Dialects, Accents, and Linguistic Dexterity – Lab 069 Jun 30, 2022

Language is a huge part of culture, and this week we’re talking all about linguistics. We’re getting into the difference between accents and dialects, the linguistic history of Black American English, codeswitching, and more! Guest: Dr. John Baugh. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Black Music Month with Mark Anthony Neal & 9th Wonder – Lab 068 Jun 23, 2022

It’s Black Music Month! This week, Titi and Zakiya are celebrating Black music and getting into its history, culture, and politics. We’re diving into the roots of hip hop and jazz and tracing how Black music and artists have been at the forefront of music and popular culture. Guests: Professors Mark Anthony Neal & 9th Wonder. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Celebrating Juneteenth Through Food – Lab 067 Jun 16, 2022

Juneteenth is around the corner, and we can’t wait to celebrate! In this lab, Titi & Zakiya get into the history of Juneteenth, the food traditions behind the holiday, and the power that food has to connect people across families, communities, and cultures. Guest: Nicole Taylor. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Dope Labs Archives: The Science of Celebration - Lab 035 Jun 09, 2022

Dope Labs will be back next week. In the meantime here's one of our favorite Labs from the archives, Lab 035, all about the science of celebration. In this Lab from November 2020, Titi and Zakiya dissect the sociology of celebration, talking about why we celebrate. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Celebrating Pride in STEM – Lab 066 Jun 02, 2022

It’s June and it’s also Pride month! To celebrate, we’re passing the mic and hearing from you about the amazing work you all are doing in STEM: biology, astronomy, engineering, and more! Join us as we celebrate Pride in STEM. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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The Gamification of Life – Lab 065 May 26, 2022

From Chess to Wordle, people have been playing games since the beginning of time. This week, Titi & Zakiya are talking all about games, gamification, and the meaning of life. Turns out games are for everyone! Guest: Dr. C. Thi Nguyen. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Healing Through Art Therapy – Lab 064 May 19, 2022

It’s mental health awareness month, and we’re hearing a lot of buzz surrounding self care and wellness. This week, we’re talking all about art therapy, and how using the materials and methods of art with a trained therapist can help us access our subconscious, process trauma, and learn new skills on the path to healing. Guest: Professor Juliet King. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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The Maternal Healthcare System Part II – Lab 063 May 12, 2022

Last week, we learned that the US maternal healthcare system has some big gaps, despite being the biggest spender on maternal health. This week, we’re unpacking how we got here, some of the programs in place to support birthing people, and new policies that are expanding care and improving maternal health outcomes. Guest: Dr. Sarah Benatar. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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The Maternal Healthcare System Part I – Lab 062 May 05, 2022

Mother’s Day is around the corner and Rihanna is glowing! We’re kicking off a two-part series all about maternal health. In part one, we’re getting into the current status of the maternal health care system in the US, whether it’s working, and what we can do to better support birthing people. Guest: Simmone Taitt. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Sodium, Iron, Magnesium, Nickel... Why Metals Are So Important – Lab 061 Apr 28, 2022

Metals are everywhere. From iron to sodium, magnesium to calcium, metals are in our bodies and in the technology we use every day. In this week's Lab, we're doing a deep dive straight into the earth's crust to talk all about what metals are used for, why they're so important, and what plans are in place to preserve (or imitate) these limited natural resources. Guest: Dr. Kate Buettner. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Nuclear Energy: The Past, Present, and Future – Lab 060 Apr 21, 2022

Gas prices are up and this got us thinking about all the different energy sources we rely on. In this Lab, Titi and Zakiya dive into the science, the history, and the potential of nuclear energy. Guest: Dr. Mareena Robinson Snowden. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Biodiversity and Conservation: The Circle of Life – Lab 059 Apr 14, 2022

Spring has sprung, and we’ve been spending more time outside appreciating nature. In this lab, Titi and Zakiya are exploring biodiversity, conservation, and what steps humans can take to better coexist with animals and other living things. Guest: Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Hypochondria, Psychosomatic Disorder, and Placebo Effect: Mind Over Matter – Lab 058 Apr 07, 2022

Things are not always as they seem, and our minds & bodies are no exception. This week Titi and Zakiya examine the mind-body connection with Dr. Suzanne O’Sullivan, author of It’s All in Your Head: True Stories of Imaginary Illness. We’re talking all about psychosomatic disorders, hypochondria, and the path to diagnosis. Guest: Dr. Suzanne O’Sullivan. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Volcanic Winters, Microplastics, and More: Live from the Great Northern – Lab 057 Mar 31, 2022

This lab was recorded as part of The Great Northern's 2022 festival in Minnesota, and Titi & Zakiya are COLD. This drives them to talk about all things winter weather, touching on snowflakes, microplastics, and volcanic winters. They ask why winter is usually so challenging… and how the North is embracing and inspiring action around it with skating ponds, thermaculture, climate conversations, and more. You can find more from Dope Labs at DopeLabsPodcast.com and The Great Northern at TheGreatNorthernFestival.com

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Lab 056: The Right Match: Organ Transplants Mar 24, 2022

We’ve heard a lot of myths around organ donation and transplantation. Turns out it’s a lot more complicated than matching blood types. In this lab, Titi and Zakiya dig into the science behind organ transplantation, donor matching, and some of the recent research and advancements going on in this field. Guest: Dr. Dave Lowe. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 055: Don't Get Hacked Mar 17, 2022

From Inventing Anna to the Tinder Swindler, cybersecurity has been front and center in our collective consciousness. But what exactly is cybersecurity? In this Lab, Titi and Zakiya break down everything from cookies, to global ransomware attacks, and what we can do as users to keep our information safe. Guest: Christina Morillo. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 054: Say Ahhh Mar 10, 2022

We’re seeing a lot of teeth on our timelines – from veneers to DIY braces, teeth are everywhere! This week we’re taking a closer look at some of the recent trends and advancements in modern dentistry and the connections between our oral health and our overall health. Guest: Dr. Marcus Johnson. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 053: Unsustainable Mar 03, 2022

This week we’re talking about sustainability in fashion. Last week (Lab 052) we talked about how much more we’re buying, but what happens to all that clothing when we’re done wearing it? What does it mean to be ethically sourced? Sustainable? Upcycled? Plus, the perils of greenwashing in clothing retail. Guest: Drew Heifetz. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 052: Retail Apocalypse Feb 24, 2022

Shopping is easier to do than ever these days. In Lab 039: Add to Cart, we talked about what happens after you buy something with one click. Today, we start our two-part fashion series by talking about what happens BEFORE you buy. So much has changed since going to the mall was a social activity in the 90s (remember the mall?!!). In this Lab, and right on the heels of all the major fashion weeks, Titi and Zakiya talk about how we make decisions about what we buy, how retail has changed, and the state of fashion today, including the idea of ‘affordable luxury.’ Guest: Dr. Barbara Kahn. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 051: BHM: HBCUs Edition Feb 17, 2022

It’s Black History Month and we are celebrating by talking about Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) with special guest Xavier Jernigan! In this episode, Titi and Zakiya talk with X about community, mentorship, Homecoming, and what makes the HBCU experience so special. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 050: Gold Medal Physics Feb 10, 2022

The 2022 Winter Olympics are in full swing and we are glued to the TV (go Nathan Chen!). But it takes more than just discipline and guts to be an Olympic athlete - you’ve got to know your physics! In this episode, Titi and Zakiya talk to Dr. Sophia Nimphius about how athletes harness the power of physics to go for the gold in ski jumping, curling, luge, figure skating, and more. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 049: The Habit Equation Feb 03, 2022

For our final lab in the New Years series, Titi & Zakiya want to learn all about the science behind habit formation. Dr. Wendy Wood, author of “Good Habits, Bad Habits,” tells us why bad habits are easier to make than good ones, and how to form new habits that stick. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 048: Your Daily Dose Jan 27, 2022

We have seen the custom supplement packs on IG and it looks like a lot of you are increasing your Vitamin C, but is that the BEST way to help our bodies? In the next installment of our New Year’s series, Titi and Zakiya talk to Dr. Alice Lichtenstein about vitamins, minerals, and supplements and how to make sure it all balances out! You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 047: All (Immune) Systems Go Jan 20, 2022

We are continuing our wellness series and the next topic is at the root of our overall wellness, our immune systems. So we are diving into to all of the complexities of our super-powered systems. Titi & Zakiya talk with Dr. Payel Gupta about how the immune system works to keep us well. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 046: Do Not Disturb Part II Jan 13, 2022

We continue our two-part episode on Sleep with Dr. Giardin Jean-Louis, focusing on the environmental factors associated with poor sleep, different sleep disorders, and treatments and tips for getting a better night's sleep. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 045: Do Not Disturb Part I Jan 06, 2022

We’re kicking off our New Years series with a two-part episode on sleep, featuring renowned sleep expert Dr. Giardin Jean-Louis. We all know sleep is important, but WHY? In Part I, we’re diving into the health benefits of sleep, what it means to get “quality” sleep, and why certain people, especially communities of color, aren’t getting enough of it. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 044: Our 2021 Mixtape Dec 30, 2021

So much happened in 2021 that we didn’t get to talk about, so in this episode, Titi and Zakiya bring back a favorite tradition: the end of the year mixtape! From BBL’s to the metaverse, we’re breaking down all the science behind the year's biggest moments. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 043: Understanding HIV Part II Dec 23, 2021

We’re continuing our conversation on the HIV vaccine with Dr. Christine Daniels. There was just too much for one Lab! This week, we’re shifting the lens from the science to the people, and talking about HIV, and a potential vaccine, in a cultural and anthropological context… because science does not happen in a vacuum! You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 042: Understanding HIV Part I Dec 16, 2021

We’ve all been learning a LOT about vaccines this year, and it got us thinking, what about vaccine development for other viruses? Currently, almost 40 million people worldwide have HIV, and scientists have been working on a vaccine for four decades. In Part I of this two-part series, Titi and Zakiya talk to Dr. Christine Daniels, a cell biologist who works on developing novel vaccines for HIV, about the progress we’ve made so far, how the HIV virus is similar and different to SARS-CoV-2, and why designing an effective vaccine for HIV has proven so elusive. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 041: Out of Control Dec 09, 2021

Reproductive health has been in the news a lot lately, most recently with the Supreme Court hearing Dobbs v Jackson Women’s Health Organization last week. So in this Lab, we talk to Dr. Elizabeth Ruzzo, the founder of Adyn, all about birth control. It’s proven very effective at preventing pregnancy, as well as treatment for symptoms of some reproductive health issues like uterine fibroids and PMDD, but can come with some pretty nasty side effects. Birth control has not changed much since the 60's so we're talking about how scientists are using endocrinology and genetics to make more personalized medicine for individuals. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 040: Money Moves Dec 02, 2021

The holiday season is upon us and that means more online shopping but this doesn't mean that we have to put our accounts in the negative to get the things we need or the things we want. In this lab we talk to Natalia Brzezinski, head of strategy at Klarna, about how fintech can save our pockets. You can find more Dope Labs, show notes, and cheat sheets at dopelabspodcast.com

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Lab 039: Add to Cart Nov 25, 2021

With Black Friday and Cyber Monday coming up, and the holiday shopping season right around the corner, there’s going to be a lot of people clicking “Add to Cart” over the next few weeks. This year has been full of headlines about labor shortages, trucker strikes, and stalled cargo ships. In this crazy economic climate, how are companies managing to source, ship, and deliver goods? We’re talking to Christopher Mims, author of “Arriving Today,” on the complex choreography of getting products from the factory to your doorstep.

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Lab 038: So Anxious Nov 18, 2021

The holiday season is here, and with that, comes a lot of anxiety. In her new book, “Good Anxiety: Harnessing the Power of the Most Misunderstood Emotion,” guest Dr. Wendy Suzuki traces the origins of anxiety, why it’s so prevalent today (spoiler alert: EVERYONE has it), and how to make it work for us.

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Lab 037: In Denial Nov 11, 2021

Dope Labs is BACK and WEEKLY! And so much has happened since our last Lab, it’s hard to even know where to start. So we’re kicking off Semester 4 by talking about science denial with Dr. Gale Sinatra and Dr. Barbara Hofer. Their book, “Science Denial: Why it Happens and What to Do About It,” explores the psychological issues that keep folks from having a broad understanding of science.

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Semester 4 Sneak Peek 👀 Nov 10, 2021

Semester 4 kicks off brand new, weekly episodes on November 11th. But we couldn’t wait that long to show you what we’ve got cooking! Here’s a little sneak peek. Don’t forget to follow us on Spotify!

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Semester 4 is WEEKLY Starting November 11! Oct 25, 2021

Hello, friend. It’s been a minute. We’ve missed you. But we have some exciting news! Dope Labs is back November 11th, with new episodes every Thursday. Follow us on Spotify so you don’t miss a beat!

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Lab 036: Shoot Your Shot - A COVID Update Dec 03, 2020

In the final Lab of Semester 3, Titi and Zakiya give a highly requested coronavirus update. They’ll highlight the advances in science and the public health plans with guests Dr. Rupali Limaye and Molly Sauer from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Read Titi and Zakiya’s editorial in Scientific American here: https://bit.ly/3mz060I

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Lab 034: Presently Futuristic Oct 29, 2020

Like everyone else on the planet, Titi and Zakiya have been obsessing over Lovecraft Country. It’s the latest in what could be called a renaissance in Afrofuturism and Black horror, along with Watchmen, Get Out, and Black Panther. In Lab 034, they do a deep dive on all things Afrofuturism, and how to distinguish it from other popular genres like science fiction and horror with our guest Dr. Kinitra Brooks. Actor Levar Burton also drops in to give his perspective on the importance of developing diverse stories in media. For more info visit dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 033: Supermarket Sweep Oct 15, 2020

Remember in the beginning of the pandemic when grocery stores ran out of a lot of pantry staples? We also saw a lot of food waste during that time, for example, farmers dumping a lot of produce that had gone bad. In Lab 033, Titi and Zakiya explore the complexities and scale of the United States food system to understand how these things are all connected. Guest: Dr. Marie Spiker. For more info visit dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 032: Life Avalanche Oct 01, 2020

All the stress we are feeling in 2020 is leading to what feels like worldwide burnout. In Lab 032, Titi and Zakiya talk about what causes burnout, most common burnout behaviors, and how you can recognize burnout when it happens to you. Guest: Dr. Anne Helen Petersen. For more info and show notes, visit dopelabspodcast.com

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Lab 031: Persuadables Sep 17, 2020

Are you seeing political ads everywhere? We are! This week we talk to guest experts Dr. Chryl Laird and Jenna Golden about the advertising machine behind the 2020 elections. Listen to learn about ad strategy, the resulting political behavior, and how social media is making you a prime target . Check out dopelabspodcast.com for more info.

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Lab 030: Signed, Sealed, Delivered Sep 03, 2020

It’s time to support the USPS, whether it’s buying stamps, or writing more handwritten letters. In this Lab, Titi and Zakiya unpack the benefits of writing by hand, how reading handwriting is different than reading type, and what happens in the brain when you see and process letters. Guest: Dr. Robert Wiley. For more info and show notes visit dopelabspodcast.com.

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Lab 029: The Roof is on Fire! Aug 20, 2020

In Lab 029, we’re talking about how COVID-19 has magnified the housing shortage into a housing crisis with our guest, Michael Neal from the Urban Institute.

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Lab 028: There’s Something in the Water Aug 06, 2020

The ocean covers 70% of the earth's surface, but we know so little about it and how it affects our lives. In this Lab, Titi and Zakiya bring the ocean to your front door, exploring how the ocean is impacted by climate change and how it fights back. Guest: Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson

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Lab 027: Here Comes the Boom Jul 23, 2020

To add to the list of reasons why 2020 is trash: fireworks have been keeping us up all night. We may not be able to stop the fireworks from happening, but at least we can understand more about how they work. Guest: Fran Scott

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Lab 026: What About Your Friends? Jul 09, 2020

Friendships are especially hard when we're all socially distanced. So join Zakiya and Titi as they explore the psychology behind being a good friend. This lab features a special appearance from the hosts of the podcast Call Your Girlfriend, Aminatou Sow and Ann Friedman, who talk about their new book, Big Friendship. Guest Expert: Dr. Marisa G. Franco.

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Lab 025: Skin Deep Jun 25, 2020

Titi and Zakiya kick off Semester 3 by holding up a mirror to the scientific community, unpacking the history of science and racism. Guest: Angela Saini

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Semester 3 Starts June 25th! Jun 19, 2020

Who needs some good news? Dope Labs is coming back for Semester 3 on Thursday, June 25th! 2020 has been a YEAR and there is a lot to unpack. If you have an idea for an upcoming Lab, call us at 202-567-7028 and leave a message.

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Lab 024: BHM: STEM Edition Feb 20, 2020

It's the one year anniversary of Dope Labs AND it's Black History Month. To celebrate, Titi and Zakiya are turning the microphone on YOU, our amazing Dope Labs listeners, who are doing some incredible things in all areas of STEM: engineering, biology, management and more! Join us for our Semester 2 finale as we celebrate all things Black and STEM.

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Lab 023: Don’t Pass the Corona Feb 06, 2020

The Coronavirus is in the front of everyone’s minds and misinformation is being spread faster than the virus itself! In this lab Titi and Zakiya breakdown what the coronavirus is, where it came from, and what we can all do to help prevent its spread. Guest: Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett.

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Lab 022: This is NOT a Drill Jan 23, 2020

The fires in Australia are raging and a lot is being lost. In this lab, Titi and Zakiya discuss how the fires started, why they are different from ones in the past, and how climate change has played a role. Guest: Dr. Sarah Perkins-Kirkpatrick.

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Lab 021: New Bank Account, Who Dis? Jan 09, 2020

It’s a new year and there are plenty of broken resolutions to go around. One common resolution is getting your finances in order. In this lab, Titi and Zakiya discuss some of the latest “fintech” available to help you achieve your 2020 financial goals. Guest: Dr. Bill Maurer.

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Lab 020: Our 2019 Mixtape Dec 19, 2019

It’s the end of the year, so Dope Labs is giving you a special treat for Lab 020: a mixtape to celebrate all of Titi and Zakiya’s top pop culture moments of 2019! From Megan Thee Stallion’s knees to social media apps aging us 50 years, they are breaking down the science behind it all.

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Lab 019: What's Beef? Dec 05, 2019

Plant-based meat substitutes have come a long way since frozen veggie patties with big chunks of carrots and sharpie grill marks. Now, companies like Impossible Foods are making plant-based burgers that look, smell, taste and bleed like real meat. In this Lab, Titi and Zakiya learn about what new ingredients are making these burgers more like real meat, and the scientific process of mass producing those ingredients using biology, genetics, and engineering. Guest: Dr. Christina Agapakis.

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Lab 018: Truth Pie Nov 21, 2019

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, Titi and Zakiya discuss the huge impact of European colonialism in North America, not only from the severe depopulation of Indigenous peoples, but also the relationships they cultivated with the plants, animals, and the environment around them. Guest: Dr. Nicholas Reo.

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Lab 017: Fall Back Nov 07, 2019

Daylight Saving time has just ended and we are NOT happy! In this lab Titi and Zakiya take a closer look at this yearly practice to find out whose bright idea this was, what time is, and if anything is REALLY saved with daylight saving. Guest: Dr. Laura Grant.

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Lab 016: Haunt Me Oct 24, 2019

It’s officially Titi and Zakiya’s favorite time of year! SPOOKY SEASON! So they called on the hosts of the Travel Channel’s Ghost Brothers: Haunted Houseguests to walk them through the tech they use for hunting ghosts, and then break down the science of paranormal activity. Guests: Juwan Mass, Marcus Harvey, and Dalen Spratt.

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Lab 015: Big Poll Energy Oct 10, 2019

The primary election is in full swing, and our feeds are full of political polls that are surveying everything from who’s on top, to each candidates favorite comfort food. In this episode, Titi & Zakiya dive into polling to understand survey methodology (how polls are designed) and how to make sense of the results. Guest: Dr. Rachel Bitecofer.

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Lab 014: Art of Con Sep 26, 2019

Whether it’s robocalls, catfishing, Tekashi 6ix9ine, or Aunt Becky - it seems like everyone is out here scamming!! But why do WE keep falling for them? We turned to Dr. Lasana Harris to help us understand human motivations and interpersonal behaviors making us susceptible to these schemes.

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Lab 013: Predator Sep 12, 2019

Our city boy/hot girl summers are coming to a close, and while we will miss summer, there’s one thing we won’t miss - mosquitoes. We all were bitten by mosquitoes…A LOT. But mosquitoes don’t just make us itchy - a recent New York Times article called them “the deadliest human predators on the planet.” In this episode, we put mosquitoes under the microscope - why do they need our blood in the first place, what kind of illnesses do they carry, and why do some people (Titi) get bitten more than others.

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We're Back! Sep 05, 2019

Dope Labs is back for Semester 2 on September 12, with a whole new batch of episodes dropping every other Thursday. And we want to hear from you! Call us at 202-567-7028 and tell us what you think we should dissect this semester.

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Lab 011: I Look Like Bae Jul 04, 2019

From the BET awards to the NBA awards folks are coming out looking GOODT from head to toe! Getting dressed up is easy, but Titi and Zakiya want to know how everyone's faces look so flawless. So, in this episode they dive into the chemistry, material science and biology of looking like BAE. And for a little help, they enlist all-star beauty expert Joanna Simkin, whose clientele includes Issa Rae, Marsai Martin and Regina Hall.

Show Notes: https://www.dopelabspodcast.com/podcast-episodes/2019/7/3/lab-011-i-look-like-bae

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Lab 010: It Was All a Dream Jun 20, 2019

Titi and Zakiya take a trip down memory lane but... it seems like their recollections are VERY different! In this episode they dive into the psychology and sociology or memory and try to understand why their memories of the same thing are so different.

Show Notes: https://www.dopelabspodcast.com/podcast-episodes/AllADream

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Lab 009: How NOT to Get Away with Murder Jun 06, 2019

If you are into true crime this lab is for you! For decades, the “Golden State Killer” case had zero leads. Then, in 2018, investigators found a suspect using an online genealogy database. In today’s Lab, Titi & Zakiya dive into all things commercial genetic testing to find out how all of these at-home DNA kits are getting your 3rd cousins locked up! Guest: Erin Murphy, JD

Show Notes: https://www.dopelabspodcast.com/podcast-episodes/2019/6/6/lab-009-how-not-to-get-away-with-murder

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Lab 008: Fair Play May 23, 2019

Caster Semenya lost her case against the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF). Titi & Zakiya take a deep dive into the world of hormones, specifically testosterone. What makes it so special? How does it affect performance? How does the IAAF decide cutoff values? What in the policing women’s bodies hell is going on here?!? They have questions and want to see the IAAF's lab notebooks! Guest: Dr. Anthony Hackney

Show Notes: https://www.dopelabspodcast.com/podcast-episodes/2019/5/23/lab-008-fair-play

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Lab 007: Show Me the Money May 09, 2019

Prompted by Elizabeth Warren's bold proposal, the 3,582 Democratic Primary candidates are starting to get serious about addressing the student loan crisis. T & Z use economics and policy (yes, it's science!) to better understand the root of the problem, and what we can do to fix it. Guest: Colleen Campbell

Show Notes: https://www.dopelabspodcast.com/podcast-episodes/2019/5/9/lab-007-show-me-the-money

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Lab 006: Starchella Apr 25, 2019

Beyonce just dropped Homecoming, basically forcing us all to bow down to the EPITOME of a star. But Titi and Zakiya want to know, what do the stars in our galaxy have in common with the biggest star on Earth? Guest: Amy Steele

Show Notes: https://www.dopelabspodcast.com/podcast-episodes/starchella

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Lab 005: Wakanda Forever Apr 11, 2019

We want vibranium and we want it now! Titi and Zakiya explore the depths of vibranium's capabilities and try to find things in the world that come close. Guest: Dr. James Kakalios.

Show Notes: https://www.dopelabspodcast.com/podcast-episodes/wakanda

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Lab 004: Protect Ya Neck Mar 28, 2019

After being eradicated in the US in 2000, measles is back with a vengeance. There are already over 250 confirmed cases in 2019. What's next, the Black Plague is back?! In this week's lab, Titi and Zakiya apply the sciences of epidemiology, medicine, and communication to better understand all of the back and forth that's happening around viruses and vaccines, and how various influences, including celebrity (ahem, Jenny McCarthy) and social media can affect our health behavior. Guest: Dr. Rupali Limaye of Johns Hopkins University.

Show Notes: https://www.dopelabspodcast.com/podcast-episodes/2019/3/29/sq9i2u5cg7owxvxvobfmten973s8cs

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Lab 003: Lie to Me Mar 14, 2019

The internet has become a petri dish for lies and we are SHOOK. So we decided to unpack all kinds of scientific theories around why we lie, and what we can do to stop it. Guest: Iyamide House of Sabanoh Mental Health. To learn more, visit sabanoh.com.

Show Notes: https://www.dopelabspodcast.com/podcast-episodes/2019/3/15/lab-003-lie-to-me

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Lab 002: Edges Snatched Feb 28, 2019

<p>It’s not just women wearing weaves and wigs! Thanks to Safaree and Tyga, men are no longer keeping their hair restoration procedures a secret. Titi and Zakiya use psychology, biology and genetics to get to the root of what’s going on with our hair, or lack thereof. Guest: Dr. Monte Oyd Harris. To learn more about Dr. Harris, visit here .</p>

<p>Show Notes: https://www.dopelabspodcast.com/podcast-episodes/2019/3/1/lab-002-edges-snatched <p>

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Welcome to the Lab! Feb 13, 2019

Dope Labs premieres on February 14th, with new episodes dropping every other Thursday. Follow us on Spotify, or wherever you get your podcast fix.

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