FULL EPISODE: The Math Says to Bluff - June 23, 2026

Nutrition professor Vasanti Malik reveals how drinking juice and soda during childhood may increase the risk of high blood pressure later in life. Mathematician Emma Zajdela goes over the mathematics of poker and how bluffing is an essential part of a winning strategy. Emily the Recruiter (Emily Durham) explains why so many people aren't taking their paid time off, and why "unlimited" vacation policies are a bit of a scam. (Check out Emily's book Clock In: No-BS Advice for Getting Ahead in Your Career (Without Losing Your Mind) here.) Cognitive neuroscience professor Effie Pereira outlines how attractive faces draw our gaze but fail to hijack our peripheral attention. Sociologist Jessie Ford discusses resilience among gender and sexually fluid people, straight men as a vulnerable sexual health population, and how sexual pleasure is overlooked and important for our health. Sleep neurologist Dr. Rachel Salas chats about when you should have your last cup of coffee for a better night's sleep and the importance of a good mattress. Psychology professor Eva Pomerantz illustrates how parents helping kids enjoy math may boost achievement as much as content support. Segments: (00:00) Introduction (01:09) Vasanti Malik (10:00) Emma Zajdela (20:00) Emily the Recruiter (30:00) Effie Pereira (39:50) Jessie Ford pt. 1 (49:50) Jessie Ford pt. 2 (59:50) Dr. Rachel Salas (1:09:50) Eva Pomerantz (1:19:04) Sign-off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices