Emotional Contagion

The Jason & Mindy Podcast

In this episode of the Jason and Mindy podcast, the hosts discuss various topics including dogs smelling stress in humans, the comeback of CDs, and the perfect summer day. They also share a random question and end with a quote about courage.

https://www.lowtreestudios.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@lowtreestudios

- Dogs can smell stress in humans – and it alters their own behavior. University of Briston researchers say they found that our pet canines experience “emotional contagion” from the smell of human stress — leading them to make more “pessimistic” choices, and affecting their ability to learn. Previous research in humans suggests that the smell of a stressed person subconsciously affects the emotions and choices made by others near them, which led the researchers to wonder if the same is true with dogs.

- Are CDs on their way back? Well, they’re definitely on their way back into a new Subaru, as a “throwback” option. The latest generation WRX has a number of ‘finishing touches’ available, allowing buyers to add all manner of extras, such as mud flaps, an engine underguard, and a first aid kit. But the most interesting – at least for 90s kids – is the optional CD player, neatly fitted under the center console’s armrest. Of course, with the shift to downloads and streaming services, not many manufacturers even offer a CD option anymore, but if you still have some discs kicking around, Subaru’s $375 CD Player Kit might be worth splashing out on. On the other hand, you could instead select the “automatic transmission” option for just $300…

FUNNER SUMMER:

What does the “perfect summer” look like to you? Lots of road trips? Camping? Back yard barbecues? Golf? According to a new survey, the absolutely ideal summer must include the following: 14 days with loved ones, 8 sunrises watched, and 11 dips in the water. That’s from a poll of 2,000 adults in the US, which found that some of the most enjoyable things about summer include: spending time with family and friends (44%), enjoying BBQs (43%), longer days (42%), warmer weather (37%), and swimming (31%). On the down side, people were also asked about things that can ruin a beautiful summer. The top answer was too much heat, followed by being sick, or injured. And the average person expects to have to deal with one sunburn, and go through 2 bottles of sunscreen.