Not only do they often get the science wrong, politicians sometimes fail to communicate the nature of scientific inquiry and the goals of the scientific process itself. In his book, journalist Dave Levitan takes us through 12 repeating patterns that politicians fall into when they talk about scientific research. Some are nefarious and intentional, some are based on ignorance, and some are just part of the normal business of politicians managing their public image or trying to appeal to their bases.

On this episode, journalist Kate Leaver talks about her new book, in which she explores the crippling, damaging, life-threatening impact of loneliness and the severe mental health costs of living a life disconnected from a support network of close contacts. But…as she explains in the episode, there is a cure…learning how to connect with others and curate better friendships.