Twenty Thousand Hertz

#116 | I'm Lovin' It Feb 24, 2021

Since its introduction in 2003, the McDonald’s “I’m Lovin’ It” jingle has become one of the most recognizable melodies in the world. This is the story of how a catchy five-note jingle conquered the planet, from its humble beginnings at a German ad agency, to being sung by globally famous pop stars. Featuring interviews with "I'm Lovin' It" composers Tom Batoy and Franco Tortora of Mona Davis Beat.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/imlovinit

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#115 | Sound 101 with Bill Nye Jan 27, 2021

What is sound, on a fundamental level? How did animals evolve to hear? And what happens when you go faster than sound itself? In this episode, we explore the physics of sound with the legendary Bill Nye.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/sound101

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#114 | Synesthesia Jan 13, 2021

Synesthesia is a neurological condition where one sensory experience gets combined with another, meaning someone might hear sounds when they eat, or see colors when they listen to music. So what exactly is synesthesia? And what’s it like to go through life with these unique sensory connections? Featuring the voices of neuroscientist Dr. Richard Cytowic and five people with synesthesia.

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Get your first month of hair loss treatment for free at keeps.com/20k.

Check out Dr. Richard Cytowic’s work at cytowic.net.

Check out Joel Salinas' book Mirror Touch: A Memoir of Synesthesia and the Secret Life of the Brain.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/synesthesia

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Introducing Twenty Thousand Hertz Jan 08, 2021

A lovingly crafted podcast that reveals the stories behind the world's most recognizable and interesting sounds. Subscribe now.

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#113 | Sing Gently Dec 16, 2020

After composer Eric Whitacre finished Virtual Choir number 5 in 2018, he thought the project might be done for good. But 2020 was just around the corner, and the Virtual Choir was far from over. For our last episode of the year, we've re-edited and remixed our episode about the Virtual Choir, and added a brand new section to bring the story up to the present.

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Visit our website to see all six virtual choirs.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/singgently

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#112 | Sounds Worth Saving Dec 09, 2020

Alan Lomax believed that the culture of poor Americans was important and worthy of saving. So he spent decades traveling the American South and recording obscure musicians on their front porches, in churches, even in prisons. Today, he's considered an American icon, but the road to becoming a legend wasn't an easy one. Featuring Southern Historical Collection archivist Chaitra Powell, American Folklife Center curator Todd Harvey, and filmmaker Rogier Kappers.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Archival recordings in this episode came from the Alan Lomax Collection at the American Folklife Center, courtesy of the Association for Cultural Equity.

Check out Rogier's documentary "Lomax the Songhunter" on Amazon.

For more information on the crowdsourcing project for transcribing Alan Lomax's notes, visit https://crowd.loc.gov/campaigns/alan-lomax/

Subscribe to The Wind where ever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/soundsworthsaving

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#111 | Conlang Dec 02, 2020

Sci-fi and fantasy creators often use constructed languages (or conlangs) to help us believe that the characters come from ancient times or distant galaxies. But what happens when a fictional language jumps off the screen and into the real world? This story comes from the Imaginary Worlds podcast.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Discover more at lexus.com/curiosity.

Subscribe to Imaginary Worlds wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/conlang

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#110 | Space Audity Nov 18, 2020

We've all heard the iconic recordings from the Apollo missions. But how exactly does NASA manage to run live audio between Earth and the moon? And how might we chat with astronauts on Mars and beyond? Featuring Astronaut Peggy Whitson, NASA Audio Engineer Alexandria Perryman, and Astrophysicist Paul Sutter.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out Ask a Spaceman wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/spaceaudity

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#109 | Sonic Utopia Nov 11, 2020

Technology has the power to transform the way our world sounds. It could even give us entirely new ways to experience our surroundings. In this episode, we explore the sounds of the future, and how can we use the tools we already have to build a better sounding world. Featuring Rose Eveleth, Creator and Host of the podcast Flash Forward, Acoustician Andrew Pyzdek, and Architect Chris Downey.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Subscribe to Flash Forward wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/sonicutopia

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#108 | Sound and Silence Oct 28, 2020

Sound surrounds us, even in the quietest moments. But depending on how we hear, the world can be a different auditory experience for each of us. This episode features four stories from the TED Radio Hour.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Discover more at lexus.com/curiosity.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/soundandsilence

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#107 | Dies Irae Oct 21, 2020

For hundreds of years, composers have been using a specific four-note melody to evoke death. It's appeared in dozens of famous movies, and you probably never even realized it. But once you hear it, you'll start noticing it everywhere. Featuring musicologist Alex Ludwig and Strong Songs Host Kirk Hamilton.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out Alex’s list of Dies Irae examples at alexludwig.net.

Subscribe to Strong Songs where ever you get your podcasts.

Check out The Graduale Project’s Youtube page for more Latin chants.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/diesirae

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#106 | Perfect Pitch Oct 14, 2020

People with perfect or "absolute" pitch hear every single sound as precise musical notes. Is this extraordinary talent a blessing or a curse? In this episode, we dive into the neuroscience, pluses and pitfalls of absolute pitch. Featuring neuroscientist Daniel Levitin and Grammy-winning musician Jacob Collier.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Discover more at lexus.com/curiosity.

Check out Barnaby Martin’s YouTube channel, Listening In.

Order Daniel Levitin’s book, This Is Your Brain On Music.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/perfectpitch

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#105 | Tyrannosaurus FX Oct 07, 2020

When you imagine the sound of a dinosaur, you probably think of a scene from the Jurassic Park movies. How do sound designers make these extinct creatures sound so believably alive? And what does modern paleontology tell us about what dinosaurs REALLY sounded like? Featuring Jurassic World sound designer Al Nelson, and paleontologist Julia Clarke.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Discover more at lexus.com/curiosity.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/tyrannosaurusfx

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#104 | Napster Sep 30, 2020

In less than two years, Napster became a global sensation... and then record labels and multi-platinum artists brought it crashing down. But in its short lifespan, Napster transformed our ideas about how we consume music, and how much we're willing to pay for it. This story comes from the podcast Spectacular Failures.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/napster

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#103 | Vocal Discords Sep 16, 2020

Musicians like Justin Timberlake, Adele, Björk and Rod Stewart have all had surgery to treat vocal nodes. Nodes are so widely discussed, they've almost become a boogeyman in the singing community. But is this condition really as common as people fear? And when nodes do develop, is all hope truly lost? Featuring vocal coach Katie Talbot and Professor and Chairman of the Ear, Nose, and Throat Department at Drexel University of Medicine Dr. Robert Sataloff.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Learn how you can protect your voice at nidcd.nih.gov.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/vocaldiscords

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#102 | Deepfake Dallas Sep 02, 2020

Using artificial intelligence, someone can make an algorithm that sounds just like you. And then they can say... whatever they want you to say. We're entering a brand new era: One where you can no longer trust your ears. Welcome to the world of audio deepfakes. Featuring deepfake wizard Tim McSmythurs, cybersecurity expert Riana Pfefferkorn and a brand-new host: Deepfake Dallas.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/deepfakedallas

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#101 | The City That Never Sleeps Aug 19, 2020

When writer Paige Towers moved to one of the loudest cities in the world, she found herself overcome with anxiety and depression. She came to realize that the noise of the city itself, and the inability to escape from it, was making a huge impact on her mental health. With the help of the internet, Paige was able to discover a deceptively simple solution. But the negative health implications of noise pollution are anything but simple.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/citythatneversleeps

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#100 | Ta-dum! It's Netflix Aug 05, 2020

The Netflix ta-dum sound has quickly become one of the most iconic sound logos of our generation. I bet you can hear it in your head right now. This sound is heard countless times, every single day, all over the world. But the Netflix sound was almost very different than the one we know today. Hear the story of how one of the biggest sound logos of all time was made. Featuring Todd Yellin - VP of Product at Netflix, Tanya Kumar - Brand Design Lead at Netflix, and Lon Bender and Charlie Campagna from the Formosa Group.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/netflix

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#99 | McElroys, Mysteries and Me Jul 22, 2020

Join Dallas and the McElroy brothers (hosts of My Brother, My Brother and Me) as they compete to see which brother has the best ear. We dust off our old mystery sounds to test the McElroy's on their knowledge of pop culture, science, and the mundane. Which brother has the best ear? Find out, in this heated and hilarious game... of mystery sounds.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out the McElroy brothers' podcasts My Brother, My Brother, and Me and The Adventure Zone at themcelroy.family or wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/mcelroysmysteriesandme

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#98 | Hamilton Remix Jul 08, 2020

Broadway’s award-winning, record-breaking, smash hit, Hamilton, is a musical unlike any other. In this special episode, we have re-voiced, remixed, and remastered one of our shows about our favorite broadway musical! Featuring Nevin Steinberg, Hamilton’s Tony-nominated sound designer, Benny Reiner, Grammy-winning Hamilton percussionist, Anna-Lee Craig, Hamilton on Broadway A2, and Broadway sound design legend Abe Jacob.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/hamiltonremix

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#97 | Stop... Collaborate & Listen Jun 24, 2020

Can you steal from yourself? Can you copyright a mood? We look back on some important copyright cases that could have an impact on the entire future of music making. Featuring Adam Neely and Sandra Aistars.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out Adam’s Youtube channel.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/stopcollaborateandlisten

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#96 | Copyrights & Wrongs Jun 10, 2020

Most western music is built on the same 12 notes. Sometimes the arrangement of those notes sounds similar, which raises the question: Theft or Inspiration? We listen to some famous copyright disputes and try to decode them. Featuring Adam Neely and Sandra Aistars.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out Adam’s Youtube channel.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/copyrightsandwrongs

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#95 | Makin' Whoopee! May 27, 2020

Farts have been funny to humans for thousands of years. This basic bodily function has countless nicknames around the world, but our fascination with farts is probably best illustrated by the simple whoopee cushion. In this episode from the podcast Brought to You By, Charlie Herman reports on the history of the whoopee cushion and why we can't help but laugh when we hear that sound.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Subscribe to Brought to You By wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/makinwhoopee

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#94 | Pew Pew May 13, 2020

When you think about Star Wars, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Lightsabers? Spaceships? Alien creatures? What about all of the sounds that go with those things? How were those sounds made, and what makes them so good? In this episode, we explore how legendary Sound Designer Ben Burtt created the sonic universe of Star Wars from scratch, one sound at a time. Featuring Marshall McGhee.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out Marshall’s Youtube channel Waveform.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/pewpew

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#93 | That's All Folks! Apr 29, 2020

Mel Blanc is a legendary voice actor who voiced more than 400 distinct characters. But in 1961, Mel was involved in a potentially fatal car accident. In this episode, we discover the unlikely source that saved him and hear how Mel spent his later years. Plus, we explore what it takes to pass the torch. Featuring interviews with Mel’s son, Noel Blanc, and voice actor Bob Bergen.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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We’re nominated for two Webbys! Vote for us at vote.20k.org and voteagain.20k.org!

Discover Bob’s work at bobbergen.com.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/thatsallfolks

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#92 | Ehh... What's Up, Doc? Apr 15, 2020

Bugs Bunny, Barney Rubble, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Tweety Bird, and many more were all voiced by one man, Mel Blanc. Discover the incredible life and talent that helped to elevate the animation industry into big business. Featuring interviews with Mel’s son, Noel Blanc, and voice actors Debi Derryberry and Bob Bergen.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out more of Debi’s work at debiderryberry.com.

Discover Bob’s work at bobbergen.com.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/whatsupdoc

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#91 | Twenty Parts Per Thousand Apr 01, 2020

The stories behind the world's most recognizable and interesting smells.

Throughout history, humans have gone to great lengths to indulge their sense of smell. We explore the contemporary scent industry to see how modern creatives are utilizing works of olfactory art everywhere from Disney World to high-end museums. Featuring Disney Imagineer Gary Powell and former New York Times scent critic Chandler Burr.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out Chandler’s exhibits at chandlerburr.com.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/twentypartsperthousand

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#90 | Cremona Mar 18, 2020

There’s a town in northern Italy that’s home to the most famous violin makers in history. The museum there holds some of the most unique and prized violins in the world - but we’re in danger of losing their sounds forever. In this episode from the podcast This is Love, Phoebe Judge reports on how a town stayed quiet to preserve an instrument they love.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/cremona

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#89 | Satanic Panic! Mar 04, 2020

From the sixties to the nineties parents worried messages hidden in rock albums would make their children do drugs and worship the devil. The truth could only be revealed if these records were played backwards. Bryan Gardiner unveils the history behind the backmasking panic and Curiosity Daily’s Ashley Hamer explains why our brains hear hidden messages... even when they’re not there!

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out Curiosity Daily Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/satanicpanic

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#88 | Noise "R" Us Feb 19, 2020

From See ‘n Say to Speak & Spell, and beyond, toys provide the soundtrack of our childhoods. Huge advancements in computer technology in recent decades mean that today’s toys can make a wider variety of sounds than ever before. In this episode, “The Toy Guy” Chris Byrne takes us on a nostalgic look back at the recent history of recorded sound in toys; then, with Dr. Hamid Djalilian, we consider what all that technological advancement means for young ears in the 21st century.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out Chris Byrne’s podcast The Playground wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/noiserus

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#87 | Good Vibes Feb 05, 2020

We know that music has the power to affect our moods, but you might be surprised by just how deep the rabbit hole goes. Music can affect our brains and bodies in profound ways. Professor Jessica Grahn tells us how our love for music has shaped us as humans while Nate Sloan unpacks our appreciation of music, and reveals how it can be used to manipulate us, both for bad and for good.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out Switched On Pop wherever you get your podcasts.

Also, check out Nate Sloan’s new book, Switched on Pop, wherever you get your books.

Follow Jessica Grahn’s music and neuroscience research at the Twitter handle @Neurobeats.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/goodvibes

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#86 | 4′33″ Jan 22, 2020

John Cage was a respected composer when, in 1952, he created his “silent piece”, 4’33’’ - a piece that would have the music world scratching their heads. This episode asks whether 4’33’’ is really “silent”, and we explore the history of a piece musicians still talk about today - and speak to the man who campaigned to get it to the top the British charts in 2010. Featuring composers Kyle Gann and Nahre Sol, and artist Dave Hilliard.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out Kyle Gann’s No Such Thing as Silence: John Cage's 4'33" wherever you get your books.

See Nahre’s work at nahresol.com.

Find Dave Hilliard on Instragram at davehilliardart.

Listen to more of Martin Zalta Austwick’s music at palebirdmusic.com.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/433

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#85 | Seinfeld Jan 08, 2020

No bass for you!! In 1987, TV composer Jonathan Wolff was still trying to make a name for himself in Hollywood. Then one day, he got a call from Jerry Seinfeld, who needed music for his new sitcom. This is the story behind the unforgettable music of Seinfeld, and how Jonathan Wolff’s unique approach helped make Seinfeld a TV classic."

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Find Jonathan on Instagram and on Twitter.

You can reach Steve at stevelack.com

Check out An Arm and a Leg wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/seinfeld

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#84 | Sonic Wonderland Dec 16, 2019

There’s a reason we call tourists “sightseers”. As a society, we’re totally obsessed with the way things look. But our world is full of beautiful, fascinating and bizarre sounds. Join us on a sonic adventure around the world, as we climb up sand dunes, plunge into the Arctic Ocean, and even travel back in time. When we celebrate these treasures, we become better listeners and the world becomes a richer and more exciting place. Featuring Trevor Cox, author of Sonic Wonderlandand Now You’re Talking.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/sonicwonderland

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#83 | Historically Speaking Dec 02, 2019

Language is a uniquely human gift. We have shaped it to our individual and cultural needs, and it has shaped us in return. Professor Lera Boroditsky reveals how the sounds we make with our mouths influence what’s going on inside our brains. And podcaster Helen Zaltzmann shows us how important language can be to our identities, and what happens when those language identities are challenged.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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The Allusionist is on tour! Check dates and locations at theallustionist.org/events. And if you haven’t already, listen and subscribe to The Allusionist wherever you get your podcasts.

Check out and subscribe to Risk! wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/historicallyspeaking

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#82 | Vroom Vroom Nov 18, 2019

When was the last time you turned off your radio and just listened to your car? What’s really going on under the hood? We chat with our own Nick Spradlin about the simple force at the heart of every gasoline engine and talk with legendary recordist Watson Wu about how the sound of wild and powerful sports cars are captured.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out and subscribe to ZigZag wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/vroomvroom

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#81 I Baby Shark Nov 04, 2019

Baby Shark is a mega viral YouTube video, an unstoppable earworm, a top 40 hit, a Eurodance smash, a decades old campfire song, and the center of an international copyright dispute. In this episode from the podcast Decoder Ring, we explore the strange history of the song, what makes it so catchy, and who it really belongs to today.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out and subscribe to Decoder Ring wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/babyshark

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#80 I Virtual Choir Oct 21, 2019

Singing with others is a powerful form of expression. That's why the composer Eric Whitacre started the Virtual Choir; an experiment that connects singers from every corner of the globe. In this episode, we hear how a choir can unite people from different backgrounds to achieve a common goal - creating beautiful music.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/virtualchoir

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#79 I The Price is Right (Yeah, Yeah!) Oct 14, 2019

As a young composer, Edd Kalehoff was looking for his break. In the early 70s he struck gold, writing the theme song and music cues for The Price Is Right.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out The Price is Right Drum Cover on Youtube by RTDUMS2121.

Check out and subscribe to Just the Beginning wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/thepriceisright

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#78 | The Loudness Wars Oct 07, 2019

In part 2 of the story of mastering, we explore the consequences of the Loudness War and call out some of the worst offenders. We’ll also hear about the artists and mastering engineers who have been fighting back, and learn how modern listening habits might finally put an end to this sonic arms race.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out Ian Shepherd’s podcast The Mastering Show.

Check out Greg Milner’s book, Perfecting Sound Forever.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/loudnesswars

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#77 | The [COMPRESSED] History of Mastering Sep 23, 2019

Join us on a musical journey from the Golden Age of analog mastering to the digital methods of today. We’ll find out why the music industry became obsessed with loudness, and learn how the digital era transformed the way that music sounds. Featuring Greg Milner and Ian Shepherd.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out Ian Shepherd’s podcast The Mastering Show.

Check out Greg Milner’s book, Perfecting Sound Forever.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/historyofmastering

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#76 I You've Got Mail! Sep 16, 2019

How a simple soundbite on America Online became one of the most recognizable sounds of the internet age, plus the creation of a whole new musical instrument. This episode features Elwood Edwards, the man behind the famous AOL “You’ve Got Mail” soundbite, and Bosco and Maya Kante, inventors of the ElectroSpit.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out and subscribe to Gastropod wherever you get your podcasts.

Check out and subscribe to Just the Beginning wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/youvegotmail

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#75 I Speak Easy Sep 09, 2019

We rarely think about the way we speak. For most of us, it just happens. In this episode, we catch up with two professional voice artists and chat about their rituals and techniques that help them communicate. Featuring voice actor Harry Shearer and NPR vocal coach Jessica Hansen.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Subscribe to Harry's podcast Le Show.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/speakeasy

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#74 I Hear Here! Aug 26, 2019

Humans have been fascinated with acoustics since our earliest ancestors. From Roman amphitheaters to modern symphony halls, we’ve designed our spaces with sound in mind. But the relationship between acousticians and architects isn’t always smooth sailing. In this episode, we explore the way acoustics has shaped our history and what we might do to make our spaces sound better today. Featuring Emily Thompson, author of The Soundscape of Modernity and Professor of History at Princeton University, and Trevor Cox, author of Sonic Wonderland and Professor of Acoustic Engineering at the University of Salford.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/hearhere

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#73 I Stradivarius Aug 12, 2019

Stradivarius violins are reputed to have an exquisite sound that cannot be replicated or explained. Why is that? And what, exactly, is a Stradivarius violin anyway? This episode features interviews with The Strad magazine’s managing editor, Christian Lloyd, and violin maker Joseph Curtin.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Can you tell the difference between a Stradivarius violin and a modern violin? Take the informal test here!

Our classical tracks came from Musopen. Check them out at musopen.org.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/stradivarius

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#72 | 808 Jul 29, 2019

The 808 is arguably the most iconic drum machine ever made. Even if you’ve never heard of it, you’ve definitely heard it. It’s in dozens of hit songs -- from Usher to Marvin Gaye, Talking Heads to The Beastie Boys -- and its sounds have quietly cemented themselves in the cultural lexicon. In this episode, we try to understand how that happened and follow the unlikely path of the 808. Featuring DJ Jazzy Jeff and Paul McCabe from Roland.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/808

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#71 | Soundmarks® Jul 15, 2019

Companies spend a lot of time and effort perfecting the look of their brands. But now what a brand sounds like matters just as much. We trace the history from songs to jingles to what's called sonic branding, following the creative process that led to AT&T’s iconic four-note sound logo. And we'll explore what comes next: multi-sensory marketing. Can sound change how beer tastes? This episode originally aired on Household Name.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/soundmarks

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#70 | Deaf Gain Jul 01, 2019

The last few decades have seen amazing improvements in cochlear implant technology. Professor Michael Dorman reveals what they really sound like, and how they can help out with more than just our hearing. But should we be advocating cochlear implants at all? We chat with deaf graphic designer Brandon Edquist about why he chooses not to use his implant, and why the Deaf community is up in arms against them.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/deafgain

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#69 | Plants that Sing Jun 17, 2019

Have you ever wondered what your dog or cat would say to you if they could talk? How about your plant? In this episode we explore the world of bioacoustics and cognitive ecology. Featuring MIDI Sprout creator, Joe Patitucci, and ecologist, Monica Gagliano, who is the author of Thus Spoke the Plant.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out Data Garden’s plant music at datagarden.org.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/plantsthatsing

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#68 | Sonic Illusions Jun 03, 2019

What we hear is incredibly personal and we all hear things differently. Sometimes our ears can even play tricks on us. Sonic illusions put a spotlight on the unique function of our hearing and how our backgrounds and biology affect how we process sound. Psychologist Dr. Diana Deutsch and neuroscientist Dana Boebinger explain why our hearing is a unique sense and why sonic illusions can fool us.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/sonicillusions

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#67 | Mother of Dragons(ounds) May 20, 2019

Game of Thrones is a global phenomenon that has redefined the fantasy genre. Viewers from around the world gather every week to anxiously watch what will happen next. The actors, writers, directors, and visual artists have all received well-earned recognition for their role in the show. But some heroes’ work goes largely unnoticed.

Paula Fairfield is the sound designer behind the more fantastical elements in Game of Thrones. She’s given a voice to dragons, direwolves, white walkers, and more. But the story behind these voices goes much deeper than you might think. Hear how Paula’s personal journey played a part in creating some of the most iconic fantasy sounds of the day, and how Game of Thrones helped restore her spirit.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/mother-of-dragonsounds

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#66 | Sound Escapes May 06, 2019

Over his long career, Gordon Hempton has mastered the art of truly listening. He’s known as the Sound Tracker. Some people call him an acoustic ecologist. His recordings and books have made him an international expert on the beauty and importance of undisturbed, natural soundscapes — and the ways human beings have changed them.

Now, Gordon Hempton is losing his hearing. But with that loss has come an intense urgency to share his life’s work — and his passion — with as many people as are willing to listen.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out the whole Sound Escapes series at BirdNote.org/SoundEscapes, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Check out Gordon’s work and buy recordings on his website soundtracker.com.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/soundescapes

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#65 | Voyager Golden Record Apr 22, 2019

In the late '70s, NASA launched Voyagers 1 & 2 to explore the furthest reaches of our solar system and beyond. But something amazing was included on those space probes... a 90-minute time capsule of sounds, language, and music from Earth called The Golden Record. Its intended recipient? Any intelligent extraterrestrial life that might stumble upon it. What did Carl Sagan and his team put on the record to represent all of humanity? How would aliens decode it?

For the first time ever, the album will be deconstructed track-by-track. Featuring Tim Ferris and Linda Salzman Sagan, two pioneers behind the record.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Get your copy of the Voyager Golden Record at ozmarecords.com.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/voyagergoldenrecord

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#64 | Birdsong Apr 08, 2019

When was the last time you stopped and really listened to birdsong? Ever wonder what they’re singing about? We chat to Kenn Kaufman and Dr. Irene Pepperberg about the extraordinary complexity to the avian arias, how they’re produced, what they mean, and how vocal acrobatics can reveal a surprising hidden intelligence.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound, and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out The Growth Show wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/birdsong

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#63 | Phone Tones Mar 25, 2019

We unpack how touch tone dialing changed communication forever. Join us on a deep, quirky dive into telephone history. We’ll also deconstruct these sounds and reveal their hidden brilliance. Featuring author Annabel Dodd and telephone aficionado Jim Hebbeln of the Telecommunications History Group.

20K is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out Pessimists Archive wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/phonetones

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#62 | The Booj Mar 11, 2019

Movie trailers have undergone a huge evolution. They’ve gone from those cheesy voice-of-God narrators in the ‘80s and ‘90s, to boojes and bwaas. Professor James Deaville delivers the history of trailers, and Youtuber Craven Moorhaus offers a hilarious takedown of the sounds and dialogue that are common in the modern trailer style. After you hear this episode, you’ll never be able to watch a blockbuster trailer the same way again.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Check out more videos from the Auralnauts at youtube.com/Auralnauts.

Check out Song Exploder wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/thebooj

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#61 | Dining on Decibels Feb 25, 2019

Have you noticed how loud it gets in restaurants these days? Have you found yourselves shouting just to keep a conversation going? Architecture critic Kate Wagner explains how changing design trends have led to dining experiences that aren’t just antisocial, but are negatively impacting our health as well.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced at the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Contribute your local restaurant noise to the SoundPrint app at soundprint.co

Check out Hi-Phi Nation at hiphination.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/diningondecibels

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#60 | Do Not Disturb Feb 11, 2019

Alarm sounds have been around almost as long as humans themselves. But as our world has transformed, so have they. Today’s alarms are having an unexpected effect on our minds and bodies, and can even be putting our lives at risk when we’re at our most vulnerable. Dr Judy Edworthy and Yoko Sen talk to us about our alarming sound environment, and how it can be improved.

20K is hosted by Dallas Taylor and made out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Visit mystery.20k.org to enter this week's mystery sound.

You can find HowSound at transom.org/topics/howsound or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Check out Moonshot at moonshot.audio or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/donotdisturb

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#59 | BLUE! 42! Jan 28, 2019

For decades, NFL strategy slowly evolved from each team running a dozen different plays, to rigid schemes with coaches sending in orders through codewords and secret signals. Then, one piece of audio technology revolutionized the game. Beginning in the early 1990's, the NFL allowed coaches to speak directly to their quarterbacks through radios in their helmets. What followed was an instant increase in excitement for the nation's most popular sport, spawning a high-scoring era of fast paced offenses. Featuring former Super Bowl winning coach, Dick Vermeil, current LA Rams Head Coach Sean McVay, Bose Senior Project Manager Matt Ruwe, and Bose Distinguished Engineer Dan Gauger.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is hosted by Dallas Taylor and produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Visit mystery.20k.org to enter this weeks mystery sound.

Subscribe to The Truth wherever you get your podcasts. Or go to the truthpodcast.com.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/blue42

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#58 | Silence Jan 14, 2019

Our world is filled with sound. It exists in even the quietest corners of the planet. But what happens when all that sound is taken away? What is silence? There are very few places on Earth where silence actually exists, but in this episode, Dallas experiences it for himself thanks to a special room called an anechoic chamber. How do our brains process the complete nothingness of silence? Find out as Dallas locks himself alone inside the chamber. Featuring David Alvord and Nick Breen from the Georgia Tech Research Institute.

20k is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/silence

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#57 | Space Remix Dec 26, 2018

What happens when we leave Earth's thin blanket of atmosphere, and what do other planets sound like? In this special episode, we have completely remixed one of our favorite shows! It's been re-written, re-edited, re-narrated, has new music, and even some new additional content. If you've heard the original, you'll definitely want to check out this remixed and remastered version. Featuring Dr. Lori Glaze, Dr. Keith Noll, Dr. Scott Guzewich from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.

20K is hosted by Dallas Taylor and made out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/spaceremix

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#56 | Boots 'n Cats Dec 10, 2018

Beatboxing began as an imitation of a drum machine, but over the decades it has evolved as a means to emulate any number of percussive sounds. Now beatboxing is being studied by scientists who are fascinated by the vocal dexterity of artists. By examining beatboxing scientists are hoping to unlock mysteries behind language formation, brain function, and the capacity of humans to recreate sound. Featuring Hip Hop Artist and Beat Boxer, Baba Israel and USC Engineering Professor, Shri Narayanan.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is hosted by Dallas Taylor and produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

Check out Shri Narayanan and his SPAN team’s MRI videos of beatboxers at sail.usc.edu/span/beatboxingproject

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/bootsncats

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#55 | Being George Clooney Nov 26, 2018

Hollywood films are huge internationally. But how are these films adapted for foreign languages? We delve into the not so talked about process of dubbing. Featuring the world's most popular voice actors, directors, and producers.

Featuring: Andre Sogliuzzo, John Ptak, Shaktee Singh, Debra Chinn, Martin Umbach, Tamer Karadagli, Francesco Pannofino, Detlef Bierstedt, Marco Antonio Costa, Paul Dergarabedian, Rajesh Khattar, Christian Brückner, Emanuela Rossi, Chiara Barzini, Irene Ranzato, Claudia Urbschat-Mingues, Alexandre Gillet, Ezra Weisz, Vanessa Beltran, Samuel Labarthe, Ashwin Mushran, Chuck Mitchell, Christoph Bregler, Gabrielle Pietermann, Luise Helm, Claudia Gvirtzman Dichter, Guilherme Briggs, Samuel Labarthe, Hester Wilcox, Malavika Shivpuri, Viraj Adhav, Mona Shetty, Sheila Dorfman.

20K is hosted by Dallas Taylor and made out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

A huge thanks to Director Paul Mariano for allowing us to create this adaptation of documentary!

Thanks to APM Music for all of the music in this episode. Find out more at apmmusic.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll love the full documentary. You can find it on iTunes or on Amazon.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/beinggeorgeclooney

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#54 | Xbox Startup Sound Nov 12, 2018

The Xbox startup sound is an audio logo that’s become synonymous with the game console. But its origins are rooted in solving a logistical problem; how to entertain gamers while they wait for their machines to finish booting up. Featuring Sound Designer and Composer Brian Schmidt and Sound Designer, Composer and Berklee Professor, Michael Sweet.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is hosted by Dallas Taylor and produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/xboxstartupsound

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#53 | Theater for the Mind Oct 29, 2018

The "golden age of radio drama" may have been a stellar period for storytelling -- but the stories weren't all golden bright. Sci-fi and horror radio dramas explored deep anxieties people felt from the Depression through the Cold War, and set the stage for later stories that couldn't be told yet without special effects. Eric Molinsky of the podcast Imaginary Worlds co-hosts this episode as we hear from historians like Neil Verma and Richard J. Hand, and radio drama veterans like Dirk Maggs and Richard Toscan. Plus Emory Braswell recalls the day he thought Martians invaded New Jersey.

20K is made out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/theaterforthemind

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#52 | The Theremin Oct 15, 2018

If you've ever watched an old sci-fi or horror film, you've probably heard the hair-tingling, alien sounds of the Theremin. It's a spooky, strange instrument that's played without being touched, and has become a staple for classic horror movies. This is the story of the Theremin's mysterious journey. Featuring Thereminist Rob Schwimmer, Michelle Moog-Koussa, daughter of Bob Moog and Executive Director of the Bob Moog Foundation, and Albert Glinsky, courtesy of Moog Music.

20K is made out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/leontheremin

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#51 | Classic Cartoon Sound Effects! Oct 01, 2018

Cartoon sound effects are some of the most iconic sounds ever made. Even modern cartoons continue to use the same sound effects from decades ago. How were these legendary sounds made and how have they stood the test of time? Featuring Oscar-winning sound designer Mark Mangini of the Formosa Group, and Advantage Audio’s Heather Olsen.

20K is made out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/cartoon

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#50 | Twenty Thousand Hertz Sep 17, 2018

50 episodes! When we launched this podcast two years ago, we never imagined our passion project would come this far. To mark the occasion, we’re taking a peek behind the scenes of the show. Join the Defacto Sound team as they take you into the inspiration, creation, and people behind Twenty Thousand Hertz.

Check out Defacto Sound, the studios that produced Twenty Thousand Hertz, hosted by Dallas Taylor.

If you're looking for another great podcast, check out Moonshot.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/50th

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#49 | Jingles Sep 04, 2018

Odds are if we asked you sing your favorite advertising jingle from when you were a kid, you’d be able to recall every single lyric. Yet we don’t hear many advertising jingles these days. Why is that? This is the story of the rise, fall, and brain science of the jingle. In this episode we talk to UCLA’s Timothy D. Taylor, author of The Sounds of Capitalism, and Durham University’s Kelly Jakubowski.

20K is hosted by Dallas Taylor and made out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/jingles

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#48 | Sonic Branding Aug 20, 2018

We are constantly exposed to sonic branding in television, radio, and web commercials. We deconstruct some of the most impactful audio logos in history and explain how the brain interprets them. Featuring Scott Simonelli, CEO of Veritonic and Walter Werzowa, founder of Musikvergnuegen.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is hosted by Dallas Taylor and produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/sonicbranding

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#47 | Loop Groups Aug 06, 2018

Invisible actors create worlds of sound in everything you watch - from Jaws to The Wire. With special guests, Carl Gottlieb, screenwriter and author of "The Jaws Log"; Dann Fink, loop group director and co-owner of Loopers Unlimited; Stuart Stanley, Sound Supervisor; loop group members Eboni Booth, Dennis Carnegie, Axel Avin, Jr., Shannon Burkett, Daphne Gaines, and Rashad Edwards; and Will Ralston, supervising sound editor for The Wire, The Deuce, and Treme.

20K is made out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

This episode was a feature of the incredible podcast Every Little Thing. Go subscribe!

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/loopgroups

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#46 | Slot Machines Jul 23, 2018

What do you hear when you walk into a Casino? It can feel like chaos, but each sound is carefully curated to draw you in and make you stay. One collection of sounds are scientifically and artistically designed to keep the gambler, gambling. Slot machines. This episode features interviews with Willie Wilcox, Chief Sound Designer at Scientific Games in Las Vegas, Laura Taylor, composer and sound designer for a number of slot machines across the US, and Karen Collins, who has led extensive research into the sound and music behind these games. Is it addiction or entertainment? Maybe it's both. Pull the lever and listen for yourself.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/slotmachines

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#45 | Misophonia Jul 09, 2018

The way our brains process sound affects the way we respond to sound. This episode is about why that happens in those who suffer from misophonia, the hatred of certain sounds. Featuring researcher Dr. Phillip Gander, psychologist Dr. Ali Mattu, and misophonics Meredith Rosol and Josh Furnas.

Check out Defacto Sound, the studios that produced Twenty Thousand Hertz, hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/misophonia

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#44 | THX Deep Note, Part 2 Jun 25, 2018

Whether you're 6 years old, or 96 years old, one of the most memorable parts of going to the movies for the last three decades has been the THX "Deep Note" trailer. Unfortunately, they lost the original sound file. What happened? Also, what do sound designers & musicians think about it? Featuring Andy Moorer, creator of “The Deep Note” and global director of marketing for THX, Rob Cowles. The episode also features Musician, Producer and Professor Thomas Dolby, and Scott Simonelli, the founder of Veritonic.

20K is hosted by Dallas Taylor and made out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/thxdeepnote2

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#43 | THX Deep Note, Part 1 Jun 11, 2018

Since 1983 one of the most memorable parts of going to the movies has been the THX certification played during the previews. The accompanying sound logo called “The Deep Note” has fascinated, terrified, and mystified audiences for over three decades. What is THX really? How was “The Deep Note” created? And why does it elicit such a reaction from those who hear it? Featuring Andy Moorer, creator of “The Deep Note” and global director of marketing for THX, Rob Cowles.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is hosted by Dallas Taylor and produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/thxdeepnote

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#42 | Amen Break May 29, 2018

There’s a sample of music that’s been heard in over 2,000 songs. Odds are you’ve heard it many times and didn’t even realize you were listening to the same breakbeat. The amen break might be the most sampled piece of music in history. Where did it come from? This episode features interviews with artist Nate Harrison and Grammy-winner Richard Louis Spencer.

20K is made out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/amenbreak

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#41 | Ultrasonic Tracking May 14, 2018

Did you know your phone is a really good listener? Apps on your phone might be sending and receiving data over ultrasound. Ultrasonic communication is used for everything from tracking your daily habits to enabling light shows at music festivals. We hear from Yale Privacy Lab's Sean O’Brien and Michael Kwet, and privacy and technology counsel Katie McInnis. We also discuss the more positive uses of data over sound with LISNR CEO and co-founder Rodney Williams.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/ultrasonictracking

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#40 | ASMR Apr 30, 2018

Do certain sounds give you the head tingles? If yes, this episode is full of ear candy for you! In this episode, we learn all about the phenomenon called autonomous sensory meridian response—or ASMR for short. This soothing episode features researchers Giulia Poerio (University of Sheffield), Craig Richard (ASMRuniversity.com), and ASMR artists Gentle Whispering, Jellybean Green, and Somni Rosae - as well as the team at Defacto Sound!

Check out Defacto Sound, the studios that produced Twenty Thousand Hertz, hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/asmr

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#39 | Live Theater Apr 16, 2018

Amazing concerts, Broadway musicals, Cirque du Soliel performances, and other live shows live and die on their sound design. This is the story of how sound design for live performances went from zero to speakers in the seats and where the industry might go next. This episode features interviews with sound design legends Abe Jacob and Jonathan Deans.

20K is hosted by Dallas Taylor and made out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/livetheater

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#38 | The Music in Speech Apr 02, 2018

The way you speak has rhythm, timbre, and pitch. It’s more like music than you might think. We chat with The Allusionist host Helen Zaltzman, Martin Zaltz Austwick from Song by Song, Music Psychologist Dr. Ani Patel of Tufts University, and Drum Composer David Dockery on how musical our speech really is.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is hosted by Dallas Taylor and produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/themusicinspeech

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#37 | Seizure Sonification Mar 19, 2018

Brant Guichard has heard "The Music" for as long as he can remember. Brant has a particular type of epilepsy where he hears what are called "musical auras" whenever he has a seizure. Brian Foo, aka the Data Driven DJ, introduces a different musical element to Brant's experience of seizure.

20K is made out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/seizuresonification

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#36 | Hamilton Mar 05, 2018

Broadway’s award-winning, record-breaking, smash hit, Hamilton, is a musical unlike any other. Get the story from people in the room where it happens of how sound helps tell the musical’s story eight times a week. We talk to Nevin Steinberg, Hamilton’s Tony-nominated sound designer, Benny Reiner, Grammy-winning Hamilton percussionist, Anna-Lee Craig, Hamilton on Broadway A2, and Broadway sound design legend Abe Jacob.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/hamilton

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#35 | Emergency Alert System Feb 19, 2018

When people in Hawaii were falsely alerted of a Ballistic Missile threat, the first thing they heard was the sound of an emergency alert. For decades, this tone has alerted us to local weather emergencies and other important events, but it has never been used for its original purpose. In this episode, we explore the history of the Emergency Alert System and its predecessors. Featuring Kelly Williams, from the National Association of Broadcasters, Frank Lucia former EAS advisor for the FCC, and Wade Witmer from FEMA.

Check out Defacto Sound, the studios that produced Twenty Thousand Hertz, hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/emergencyalert

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#34 | Muzak Feb 05, 2018

“Elevator music” was once the sound of restaurants, offices, and elevators in mid-20th century America. But ironically these bland, string-driven instrumental tracks are never heard in elevators anymore. In this episode, we speak with Joseph Lanza, the author of “Elevator Music,” and Julian Treasure, chairman of The Sound Agency, about the sound of Muzak -- the company that changed the way we think public spaces should sound.

20K is hosted by Dallas Taylor and made out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/muzak

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#33 | Six O'Clock Soundtrack Jan 22, 2018

Ever wonder how the music on your favorite news stations is created? Dive in with news music appreciator + journalist Victor Vlam; Composer Matthew Kajcienski, Composer Irad Eshel, Composer Adarsh Thottetodi, Composer David Lowe, Musicologist James Deaville, Film and TV studies Professor Deborah Jaramillo to find out.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is hosted by Dallas Taylor and produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/sixoclocksoundtrack

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#32 | 3149146093 Jan 08, 2018

A mysterious Tweet from one of the most famous people on Earth: A single phone number, zero context. What does it mean? Why was it posted? Would you call it to find out? For commercial director Duncan Wolfe, this hypothetical became a very real social experiment when his cell phone number was accidentally posted on a very public Twitter account—Former First Lady Michelle Obama!

20K is made out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/3149146093

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#31 | The Gift Dec 25, 2017

The science behind sound reproduction has been studied for centuries. But what will research uncover in the centuries to come? One man made it his life’s mission to find out, and a gift he made to the world will continue that mission for the foreseeable future. Explore the extraordinary life of Dr. Amar Bose in this special holiday episode of Twenty Thousand Hertz. Featuring Ken Jacob from Bose.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/thegift

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#30 | The Bleeps, the Sweeps, and the Creeps! Dec 11, 2017

There are sounds we interact with every single day and never give a second thought. Our phones, computers, cars, and other devices are constantly communicating with us through user interface sounds and it’s their job to be heard, but not distracting. In this episode, we speak with Will Littlejohn, Facebook’s Director of Sound Design, and Conor O’Sullivan, Sound Design Lead at Google, about the sounds they create that help connect families, friends, and communities.

Check out Defacto Sound, the studios that produced Twenty Thousand Hertz, hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/the-bleeps-the-sweeps-and-the-creeps

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#29 | Let It Beep Nov 27, 2017

For over two decades, every time you turned on a Mac, you were greeted by a familiar sound. It’s appeared as a punchline in The Simpsons, and in movies like WALL•E. It’s a sound some of us tried to hide from our parents as we turned on the computer in the middle of the night. It’s a sound that’s transcended technology; the sound that makes a Mac feel like a Mac. But no longer; the iconic Mac startup chime is going away.

But, while we all recognize the sound, we rarely think of who made it. On the eve of the boot beep's retirement, Mark Bramhill, from the podcast Welcome to Macintosh talks with creator Jim Reekes about the most fun and iconic sounds he designed during his time at Apple.

20K is hosted by Dallas Taylor and made out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/letitbeep

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#28 | Disney Parks Nov 13, 2017

Theme parks have a way of transporting us to magical places, and sound is crucial in maintaining the illusion. From the most action-packed attractions to the background music playing between park areas, theme park sound designers have thought of it all. In this episode, we speak to Joe Herrington and Mike Fracassi, two Disney Imagineers who work to maintain the magic for guests of Disney Parks.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is hosted by Dallas Taylor and produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/disneyparks

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#27 | Spooky Sounds Oct 30, 2017

We uncover how scary sound effects are created in horror films as well as dissect how sound triggers the fear mechanisms in humans. Featuring Formosa Group Senior Sound Editor/Sound Designer Trevor Gates and Dan Blumstein, professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at UCLA.

20K is made out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/spookysounds

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#26 | Acoustical Umbilical Cord Oct 17, 2017

Many animals, humans included, are natural-born criers. It’s the most basic form of communication from right when we come into the world. But us humans are unique: we keep on crying until the day we die. What was born as a survival mechanism, develops a deeper fundamental need as we grow older. In this episode, we discover the hard-wiring in our brains that reach across species, and how our tears into adulthood make us distinctively human. Featuring Dr. Susan Lingle, Behavioral Ecologist at the University of Winnipeg, and Dr. Ad Vingerhoets, Research Psychologist at the University of Tilburg.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/acoustical-umbilical-cord

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#25 | Level Up Oct 03, 2017

Video games are a growing industry and every play-controlled experience is defined by its harmony of music, sound effects, and voice acting. In this episode, we reveal how these elements of a video game's soundscape are crafted and come together to tell an interactive story. The most sophisticated sound design in video games allows those without the ability to see a chance to engage with some of our greatest modern entertainment. Featuring Microsoft Sound Designer, Zachary Quarles, and ArenaNet Technical Sound Designer, Damian Kastbauer.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/levelup

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#24 | Watergate Sep 19, 2017

Watergate might be the most widely-referenced scandal in our nation’s history. The actual word itself has been appropriated in order to name many later scandals. But for a new generation of Americans, the word Watergate might not mean much. What was it? Who was involved and why was it important? Featuring Luke Nichter, author of The Nixon Tapes, and founder of NixonTapes.org.

20K is hosted by Dallas Taylor and made out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/watergate

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#23 | Sonic Seasoning Sep 05, 2017

Taste is one of our most subjective of the five senses. A flavor that elicits delight in one individual may evoke strong disgust in another. And while we all have a basic understanding of flavor, we rarely think about the other sonic factors that may be affecting how we interpret different tastes. In this episode, we consider the relationship between sound and taste, and the power certain sounds can have over our taste buds. Featuring Charles Spence, head of the Crossmodal Research Laboratory at Oxford University.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is hosted by Dallas Taylor and produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/sonicseasoning

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#22 | Fight or Flight Aug 22, 2017

Are you afraid to fly? Does even the thought of boarding an airplane make you anxious? You’re not alone. Millions of Americans suffer from clinical aviophobia. While some manage to distract themselves long enough to endure a flight, countless others avoid flying altogether. What are those mysterious sounds that trigger our fears on airplanes? And how do we keep our anxieties from interfering with our lives? Featuring Dr. Devika Fiorillo, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist who specializes in anxiety disorders, and Tom Finnegan, a commercial airline pilot with more than 20 years in the air.

20K is made out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/flight

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#21 | Sound Firsts Aug 08, 2017

What is the oldest recorded sound in history? For over 100 years researchers thought they knew until a mind-blowing discovery by historians found something new - and technological advances allowed it to be played back for the first time in history. What is the oldest recording of a musical performance, president, battlefield, television broadcast, cell phone call, and more? Featuring Patrick Feaster, co-founder of FirstSounds.org, three-time Grammy nominee, and Ph.D. in Musicology as well as Lynn Novick, award-winning filmmaker, and co-directing partner of Ken Burns.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/soundfirsts

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#20 | Noise Pollution Jul 25, 2017

Noise pollution is something we’ve all experienced. Road construction, motorcycles, passing aircraft - the list goes on and on. Other than being just plain annoying, what effect does noise pollution have on our lives? In this episode, we take a look at the physical and psychological effects of noise pollution on humans, as well as the wider and equally devastating environmental repercussions. Featuring Les Blomberg, executive director of the Noise Pollution Clearinghouse, and Rachel Buxton, acoustic ecologist, conservation biologist, and postdoctoral researcher at Colorado State University.

Check out Defacto Sound, the studios that produced Twenty Thousand Hertz, hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/noisepollution

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#19 | 20,000 dBs Under the Sea Jul 11, 2017

71% of the Earth is covered by water. And most of us imagine it to be a serene, almost silent world. But why should we have all the fun up here? Discover what sound is like just below the surface and all the way down to the ocean's depths. And see how mankind might be making it unpleasant for everyone and everything that calls the oceans home.Featuring underwater acoustician Al Jones, Professor John Hildebrand from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, and Christophe Haubursin from Vox.com on special assignment.

20K is hosted by Dallas Taylor and made out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/underthesea

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#18 | Evolution of Accents Jun 27, 2017

When you describe yourself to others you might mention your height, hairstyle, or maybe your build. But one of the most telling things about you is something you can’t even see, yet it defines you more than you realize. Your accent tells others where you’re from, who you identify with, and maybe even where you’re going. How did accents evolve and why are American accents so different from British accents? Featuring Hollywood Dialect Coach Erik Singer and Linguistics Professor Dr. Walt Wolfram.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is hosted by Dallas Taylor and produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/accents

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#17 | Forensic Audio Jun 13, 2017

You might not realize it, but audio can be just as crucial to solving a case than video or eyewitness testimony. But understanding how to interpret audio evidence, or having the ability to enhance it to a point of intelligibility, requires highly-specialized training and expensive software. Meet Kent Gibson, one of the country's leading forensic audio experts, who's done audio analysis for the FBI, the Secret Service, and the Department of Homeland Security, among many others, and get his take on audio evidence from the missing Malaysian Airlines flight, the Trayvon Martin case, and Mel Gibson's infamous domestic dispute.

20K is made out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/forensicaudio

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#16 | The Wilhelm Scream May 30, 2017

When it comes to movie screams, what’s the first one you think of? Is it a scream that evokes a sense of fear, pain, or maybe even… humor? Perhaps you immediately think about a famous “Scream Queen” or a specific scene from a movie. But you may not realize that the most famous scream in Hollywood has a name—and it’s been used over and over and over in countless films, television shows, and commercials. What makes it so good? And how did it become a filmmaker favorite? Featuring Steve Lee, sound designer, film historian, and creator of the Hollywood Sound Museum.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/wilhelmscream

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#15 | Voice Acting May 16, 2017

We hear disembodied voices all the time, in everything from cartoons and anime to commercials and trailers. It seems easy, but it's actually an intricate craft involving a great amount of training. What does it take to create multiple, unique personalities using only a voice? Featuring voice actors Christopher Sabat (Dragonball Z, One Piece) and Cissy Jones (Firewatch, The Walking Dead).

Check out Defacto Sound, the studios that produced Twenty Thousand Hertz, hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/voiceacting

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#14 | Hearing Loss May 02, 2017

Our ears are sensitive, but we often don’t treat them that way. We are born with the ability to hear up to 20,000 Hz. As we age, our hearing range diminishes. On top of that, the more exposure we have to loud sounds, the greater the impact it has on our ability to hear. Find out what happens once we start to lose our hearing. Featuring Lindsay Prusick and Shaheem Sanchez (Instagram).

20K is hosted by Dallas Taylor and made out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/hearingloss

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#13 | The Good, the Bad & the Irritating Apr 18, 2017

Some sounds are like rug burn for your ears, while others are pleasant and soothing. We explore these sounds and get to the bottom of why we might interpret them as “good” or “bad”. Featuring Tommy Edison and David Poeppel.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is hosted by Dallas Taylor and produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/good-bad-and-irritating

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#12 | Foley Apr 04, 2017

When you listen to a movie, everything the actor touches sounds crisp and clean. However, none of it was recorded on the movie set. Go behind the scenes with some of the unsung heroes of our movie experience. Featuring Fred Newman and Skywalker Sound’s Foley Team, John Roesch, Shelley Roden, and Scott Curtis.

20K is made out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/foley

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#11 | Space Mar 21, 2017

When we think about sound, our only reference is what it’s like here on Earth. What happens when we leave this thin blanket of atmosphere, and what do other planets sound like? Featuring Dr. Lori Glaze, Dr. Keith Noll, Dr. Scott Guzewich from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

Consider supporting the show at donate.20k.org

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/space

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#10 | Dolls That Talk... And Some That Listen Mar 07, 2017

Talking dolls have been around for over a century, but the fascination with making inanimate objects seem human reaches back into our early history. What is it about creating a companion that can interact with us, especially for a child, that fascinates us so? And what will that look like as our technology continues to advance? Featuring Carlene Stephens, Curator for the Smithsonian National Museum of American History and Claire Gartland of the Electronic Privacy Information Center.

Check out Defacto Sound, the studios that produced Twenty Thousand Hertz, hosted by Dallas Taylor.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/dolls

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#9 | Cars Feb 21, 2017

Some car sounds are more obvious like the horn or engine... but what about the not-obvious-until-you-point-them-out sounds like the hollow thud of a trunk or the click of a latch? The sounds a car makes are so closely associated with quality, so how, exactly, do car makers handle this aspect of the driving experience? Featuring Car Enthusiast & Sound Mixer Brian Garfield, David Zenlea from Road & Track, and Tom Teknos from Ford.

20K is hosted by Dallas Taylor and made out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

Consider supporting the show at donate.20k.org

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/cars

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#8 | Audio Descriptions Feb 07, 2017

Did you know there might be a track of audio on your favorite movies and television shows that describe all of the actions on screen? This technology was designed for the visually impaired, but it could be used for the masses. It’s still not as widely provided as some would hope. Meet the consumers and activists fighting for a better-described tomorrow. Featuring Tommy Edison, Robert Kingett, and Colleen Connor.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is hosted by Dallas Taylor and produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

Consider supporting the show at donate.20k.org

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/audio

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#7 | Movie Soundtrack Jan 24, 2017

When you think of a movie soundtrack, you probably think music. And sure, that’s one of the many, many things going on there. What else goes into making a scene sound “natural”? It isn’t what you’d think. Meet a major motion picture sound designer who unpacks all the layers of sound that go into your favorite movies and a woman who gets tigers to sing... on tape. Featuring Sound Designers, Chris Aud and Ann Kroeber.

20K is made out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

Consider supporting the show at donate.20k.org

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/movie

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#6 | From Analog to Digital Jan 10, 2017

Did we lose anything when we transitioned from analog to digital? Learn about the Jedi skills old radio DJs had to have to spin vinyl on the radio, and meet a man who’s found himself trapped in a digital world and learn what he does to escape. Featuring Rick Adams and Craig Crane.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

Consider supporting the show at donate.20k.org

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/analog

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#5 | Sound of Extinction Dec 27, 2016

When was the last time you heard a dial-up modem? A dot matrix printer? A CD dropping into its plastic tray? Did you know it would be the last time? We talk to Rick Adams, a British reporter, about the impact of Big Ben being silenced for repairs next year and Madeline Ashby, a futurist, who has some pretty wild ideas of what sounds we’re about to lose... and have already lost but haven’t realized it yet.

Check out Defacto Sound, the studios that produced Twenty Thousand Hertz, hosted by Dallas Taylor.

Consider supporting the show at donate.20k.org

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/extinction

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#4 | Mystery Hum Dec 13, 2016

There's this place right at the border between Detroit, MI, and Windsor, ON where there's this hum… It rattles dishes, makes people sick, it's even making people move away. And the government does not want you to know what's making it. Explore the mystery of the Windsor Hum with the man who is working to get to the bottom of this strange government secret. Featuring documentarian Adam Makarenko.

20K is hosted by Dallas Taylor and made out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

Consider supporting the show at donate.20k.org

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/mystery

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#3 | 8-bit Nov 29, 2016

Primitive, yet iconic, 8-bit audio defined a generation through video game sounds and music. Discover the history and innovation behind those audio marvels that still fascinate today. Featuring Microsoft Sound Designer, Zachary Quarles, and David Murray, The 8-Bit Guy.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is hosted by Dallas Taylor and produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound.

Consider supporting the show at donate.20k.org

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/8-bit

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#2 | NBC Chimes Nov 15, 2016

NBC’s three little chimes didn’t just define a television network, they defined a generation. Where did they come from and what is the surprising impact they have had on current and future media? Featuring the last person to play the NBC chimes on the NBC radio network, broadcaster Rick Greenhut, and radio historian, John Schneider.

20K is made out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

Consider supporting the show at donate.20k.org

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/nbc

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#1 | Siri Nov 01, 2016

When Siri launched in 2011, she permanently changed the way people interacted with their technology. What was it like to be the voice behind that voice? And how did they make that voice come to life? Featuring the original voice of Siri, voice actor Susan Bennett, and Director of Speech to Text Technology for Nuance, Dr. Andrew Breen.

Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced out of the studios of Defacto Sound and hosted by Dallas Taylor.

Consider supporting the show at donate.20k.org

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/siri

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