DeepSummary
The episode begins with Amy Poehler promoting her new movie, Disney and Pixar's Inside Out 2. Molly Bloom then introduces the episode's theme of exploring the dark with co-host Sasha from New York City. They discuss why people are afraid of the dark, explaining that this fear likely evolved as an adaptive mechanism for early humans when darkness posed more dangers. Psychologist Dr. Sandy Pimentel explains that being afraid of the dark is normal for over 70% of kids. She suggests ways to gradually overcome this fear, such as practicing being in the dark for short periods or making it fun with glow stick parties.
The episode also highlights the benefits of darkness, like helping maintain our circadian rhythms and allowing better perception of other senses. Mister Bonejangles, a quirky skeleton character, advocates for embracing the dark and presents reasons why nighttime is "neat." Producer Nico Gonzalez Whistler then takes listeners to Cherry Springs State Park for the Black Forest Star Party, where attendees can fully experience and appreciate the beauty of a dark night sky filled with stars.
Towards the end, Molly and Sasha summarize the key takeaways, emphasizing that while the fear of darkness is natural, the dark also serves important purposes and offers opportunities to witness the wonders of the universe. They encourage listeners to face their fears gradually and find ways to enjoy the unique experiences darkness provides.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Being afraid of the dark is a common and normal experience, especially for children, as it likely evolved as an adaptive mechanism for early humans when darkness posed more dangers.
- Overcoming the fear of the dark can be achieved gradually through practice, exposure, and finding ways to make the experience fun and enjoyable.
- Darkness serves important purposes, such as helping maintain our circadian rhythms and allowing for better perception through our other senses beyond sight.
- Experiencing true darkness offers opportunities to witness the beauty of the night sky and appreciate the wonders of the universe.
- While the fear of darkness is natural, it is beneficial to face this fear and find ways to embrace the unique experiences and advantages that darkness provides.
- Engaging with darkness can be a source of awe, imagination, and a deeper connection with the natural world.
- Stargazing events and dark sky preserves provide opportunities to fully immerse oneself in the beauty of a truly dark night and appreciate the vastness of the cosmos.
- Finding a balance between respecting our natural fears and embracing the positives of darkness can lead to personal growth and a deeper appreciation for the world around us.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “When we avoid, we don't give ourselves the opportunity to learn, you know, that the anxiety itself gets better or the fear goes away or goes down. And the more important thing, I think, is that we don't learn that we can handle it, even if it's scary.“ by Sandy Pimentel
- “It looked like somebody was on the moon, and they took diamonds out of a box, and instead of throwing them, they just flew out.“ by Olivia
- “Reason number two. Being in the dark can help you notice things you might not otherwise, because it heightens your other senses.“ by Mister Bonejangles
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Episode Information
Brains On! Science podcast for kids
American Public Media
10/24/23
Explore the dark with Molly and co-host Sasha! They’ll chat with psychologist Dr. Sandy Pimentel about why it’s totally normal to be afraid of the dark and hear from Mr. Bonejangles about why it’s the bone-a-fide best! To round out their adventure, producer Nico Gonzalez-Wisler will whisk them off on a starry, overnight field trip. The light at the end of the tunnel? An all-new mystery sound!
This episode was sponsored by:
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IXL (IXL.COM/FIELDTRIP) to get a 20% off an IXL membership.
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