Episode Details

Why do some people wilt in warm weather while others barely notice it? This episode unpacks the surprising physiology of heat tolerance — from heat shock proteins and brown adipose tissue to the little-known way SSRIs can nudge your internal thermostat upward. We explore why air conditioning can actually decondition your body's heat-handling systems, how early childhood climate shapes your sweat glands for life, and why hydration alone isn't the answer. Whether you're curious about your own summer struggles or the science behind thermal resilience, this episode offers a deep look at the six interacting systems that determine how well you handle the heat.