This week, one of our assignments was to listen to the latest podcast episode from Radiolab, called "Loops." This episode delved into different manifestations of "loops" in the world around us- be that in nature, in manufactured products, or in certain health conditions. Things that repeat, things that exist in a cycle, what it looks like to seemingly "break" a loop... It was a fascinating episode, presented in a really dynamic, engaging way that incorporates interviews, recordings, sound effects, music, and conversation between the hosts. It is successful in clear presentation of information, but not so focused on properness or professionalism that it acted as a lullaby. It is really entertaining in its approachable casualness and sense of humor, but doesn't push that so far as to discount its reliability.
This episode was really neat in the way its factual foundation works alongside its attention to perfectly subtle, engaging entertainment. The hosts explore a handful of accounts or occurrences of so-called "loops," and challenges listeners to process these things with an open mind and ready imagination. The producers overlayed different layers of audio on top of each other with elegance and skill, which I think that is an art form in itself.
There is an authority within the hosts' and interviewees' voices and their qualifications, but the stories and conversations are presented casually, not excluding laughter, long pauses, or corny jokes. The way they share stories, by means of the hosts' conversation mixed with recordings of events and interview audio, somehow finds a way to be relaxing and energetic at the same time and create a really nice headspace for listeners. It is a beautifully crafted podcast with a lot to offer within just an hour-long episode.
It is safe to say I think I might have become a soon-to-be Radiolab frequent listener. I highly encourage you to check them out!
Thanks for reading!
This is the link to the "Loops" episode: https://www.wnycstudios.org/story/radiolab-loops
{Today's mind/heart/soul-healthy challenge: Find a new song that makes your heart smile.}
*MAKE TODAY STORY-WORTHY.*