In this soothing episode of The Restful Record, we explore the fascinating world of astronomy — from stars and galaxies to black holes, planetary motion, and the physics that shape our universe.
Designed to be both calming and deeply engaging, this episode blends storytelling with clear science, helping listeners understand the cosmos without needing a background in physics.

We'll cover: The mysteries of black holes, dark matter, and cosmic expansion, Why the night sky looks the way it does from Earth, How astronomers uncover the secrets of distant worlds and nebulae, The connections between space, time, and gravity

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Podcast cover art image by Eric Nopanen.

In this relaxing episode of The Restful Record, we dive into the fascinating world of economics—from John Maynard Keynes and Adam Smith to Yuval Noah Harari’s reflections on how humans ascribe value, trust, and belief to money itself. We’ll trace the evolution from gold-backed currency to fiat money, and explore how cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, and blockchain technology are reshaping our understanding of wealth and exchange. Perfect for listeners curious about how money works, where value comes from, and what the future of finance might hold, this episode blends economic theory, history, and modern innovation in a calm, story-driven journey through time and trade.

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Podcast cover art image by Eric Nopanen.

In this episode of Restful Record, we journey through the fascinating world of public health — exploring how science, policy, and community action come together to protect populations worldwide. From historic epidemics like cholera, smallpox, and the Spanish flu, to modern-day challenges such as COVID-19, Ebola,  we uncover the stories behind the greatest global health responses in history. Learn about the rise of epidemiology, the importance of vaccination programs, disease surveillance, and health promotion, and how public health professionals work to prevent outbreaks before they begin. Tune in to understand the systems that keep societies safe — and how lessons from past pandemics continue to shape our global public health future.

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Podcast cover art image by Eric Nopanen.

In this episode of The Restful Record: University 101, we explore the captivating world of psychology—the science of the mind and behavior. From Freud’s early theories of the unconscious to the rise of behaviorism and cognitive psychology, we trace how our understanding of human thought has evolved. We’ll revisit famous experiments like Asch’s conformity study, Milgram’s obedience test, and the Stanford Prison Experiment, uncovering what they reveal about human nature. Along the way, we’ll explore mental health, therapy, neuroscience, and the everyday applications of psychology in education, technology, and society. Settle in as we unravel what truly drives the human mind.

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Podcast cover art image by Eric Nopanen.

In this first episode of The Restful Record Season 2, we explore the fascinating world of anthropology. From the discovery of Lucy and the evolution of early humans like Homo habilis and Homo erectus, to the study of Neanderthals and human DNA, we trace the story of our species. We also delve into cultural anthropology, examining Margaret Mead’s groundbreaking research, the fight against scientific racism, and the principles of cultural relativism. Plus, we explore forensic and medical anthropology, uncovering how bones and culture reveal truths about identity, health, and history. Join us for a journey through human evolution, culture, and the methods that make anthropology a vital science.

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Podcast cover art image by Eric Nopanen.

In this calming episode of The Restful Record, we journey through the long and layered history of Baghdad, one of the world’s most storied cities. Once the dazzling capital of the Abbasid Caliphate and a center of learning, trade, and culture, Baghdad has endured centuries of transformation; from Mongol invasions to Ottoman rule, colonial entanglements, and the turbulence of the modern era.

You’ll hear about Saddam Hussein’s rise to power, the impact of the Gulf War, and the profound changes brought by the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq, all told at a slow, soothing pace designed to help you unwind. As we bring the story into Baghdad today, in 2025, we reflect on the city’s resilience and the enduring spirit of its people.

Perfect for history lovers, travelers, or anyone searching for a gentle bedtime story, this episode blends Iraq’s history, culture, and politics with a relaxing narration style that makes it easy to drift off to sleep.

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Podcast cover art image by Eric Nopanen.

On tonight's episode of The Restful Record, Unwind beneath the rhythmic pulse of Mumbai, India — a city where ancient traditions meet modern energy. 

Through soft storytelling, calming breathwork, and atmospheric soundscapes, you’ll explore Mumbai’s timeless blend of colonial history, bustling bazaars, and coastal beauty — all at a dreamy, unhurried pace. Whether you’re looking for a sleep podcast, a peaceful escape, or an introduction to Mumbai’s cultural landmarks, this episode is designed to carry you into deep rest.

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Podcast cover art image by Eric Nopanen.

In this episode of The Restful Record, we explore the layered history and lush geography of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Settle in as we drift through the city's ancient origins—its rich floodplains, pre-human ecosystems, and early Khmer settlements—before journeying through the rise of the Khmer Empire, the legend of Daun Penh, and the founding of the capital. We reflect on French colonialism, Cambodia’s independence in 1953, the U.S. bombing campaign (1969–1973), and the devastating civil war that led to the Khmer Rouge takeover. Hear about the evacuation of Phnom Penh, the genocide and killing fields, and the eventual liberation by Vietnamese forces in 1979. Finally, we bring you into the present day with stories of Phnom Penh’s urban growth, environmental challenges, and rising tourism industry. Whether you’re a traveler, history lover, or simply winding down, this episode offers a peaceful, factual journey through one of Southeast Asia’s most resilient cities.

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Podcast cover art image by Eric Nopanen.

Drift into a deep, restorative sleep with tonight’s journey to Hanoi, Vietnam — a city of misty lakes, ancient temples, and thousand year-old history. In this calming episode of The Restful Record, you’ll wander slowly through the Old Quarter’s winding streets, listen to the echoes of emperors past at the Temple of Literature, and rest by the tranquil waters of Hoàn Kiếm Lake.

From staving off Mongol invasions to French colonial rule, and the tragedy of he Vietnam War, Hanoi has ensured and flourished. Whether you're curious about Hanoi’s legends, planning a trip to Vietnam, or just need a peaceful way to fall asleep, this episode is your passport to serenity.

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Podcast cover art image by Eric Nopanen.

On tonight's episode of The Restful Record, we dive into the diverse history of New York City - first home to the Lenape people who hunted and gathered on its plentiful waterways and forests, then settled by the Dutch, who named it New Amsterdam, and finally the British. We explore the diversity engrained in the city since inception and the history of Wall Street and the 1929 crash. Finally, we experience the resilience of the city's inhabitants as they navigate the tragedies of both 9/11 and the Covid Pandemic, proving that there is no place like NYC. 

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Podcast cover art image by Eric Nopanen.