Polio: Then, Now, and Why It Matters

White, Pink, Brown: The Science of Noise Colors

White noise might be the most famous sleep sound, but it’s not the only one. This week, Hari and Dr. Priyanka explore the world of noise colors, including white, pink, brown, blue, and green noise. They break down how different sound frequencies affect the brain, what the research says about sleep, focus, ADHD, and tinnitus, and why some people find certain sounds calming while others can’t stand them. Plus, Priyanka shares the story of a rare ear condition that temporarily affected her hearing and changed the way she thinks about sound. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Understanding Herpes: Symptoms, Treatment, and Stigma

Herpes is one of the most common viruses in the world, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. This week, Hari and Dr. Priyanka break down the differences between HSV-1 and HSV-2, how herpes spreads, why many people never know they have it, and what outbreaks actually look like. They explore treatment options, common myths about testing and transmission, and why honest conversations and reducing stigma are essential for protecting both individual and public health. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Patient Advocacy and Reproductive Justice with Nikki Sapiro Vinkier

Dr. Priyanka and Hari take a hard look at the state of American healthcare and what it means to advocate for yourself in a system that often feels impossible to navigate. Joined by OBGYN physician assistant and We Deserve More author Nikki Sapiro Vinkier, they discuss medical gaslighting, reproductive justice, trauma-informed care, and why patients deserve more than the bare minimum. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Earwax, Hearing Loss, & Q-Tips

Earwax might seem gross, but it’s actually one of your body’s built-in defense systems. This week, Hari and Dr. Priyanka dive into the sticky science of cerumen: why your ears make it, why Q-tips feel so good, and why doctors desperately want you to stop using them. From impacted wax and hearing loss to ear candling and the surprising genetics behind body odor, this episode explores the strange world living inside your ears. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Common STIs: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trich & At-Home Testing

STIs are common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of. In this episode, Hari and Dr. Priyanka break down chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis, how they spread, why many people don’t have symptoms, and how at-home testing is changing sexual health. They also talk openly about stigma, partner communication, and why getting tested is a normal part of caring for yourself and others. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.