Word of Mouth Past Shows

Today on Word of Mouth, research shows that smart phone apps pitched at toddlers can aid learning. And scientists studying the effects of neuroenhancing drugs discover that brain-boosted mice can wind their way through complicated mazes, but lose the ability to cope with simple problems over time. And, the making of a candidate: a profile of the transgendered leader of the San Francisco Police Commission, now launching a campaign for city supervisor. Plus, immigrant teenagers in Lowell, Mass., are leaving gang life behind to grow flowers for a local CSA.

Today on Word of Mouth, is the media following the pipers or calling the tune of the nation’s health care debate? A journalism watchdog grades the coverage. Then Yoda invades the conference room. Researchers take a cue from Star Wars to develop 3D technology that beams life-like holograms to meetings far, far away. Plus, the ultimate smart city. An exhibition in New York imagines a future of computer chips in every trash can, and park benches that kick you off for sitting too long. And writer Paul Auster joins us to discuss his new novel, Invisible.

Today on Word of Mouth, researchers use mathematical modeling to determine just how long the human race could survive during an attack of killer zombies. Plus, NHPR's Sheryl Rich-Kern visits one of the largest haunted houses in the country to find out why some people love being scared. And if you can’t make it to Hollywood for Screamfest L.A., we’ll help you roll out your own red carpet with a creepy film festival fit for your living room.

Today on Word of Mouth, scanning for criminals: the FBI is teaming up with the DMV to use biometrics to scan drivers licenses in North Carolina. The agency says this is an important tool to track down suspects, but privacy advocates aren’t so sure. We hear both sides of the story. Then the diva of ambient cello: cellist Rena Jones weaves a tangled web of classical music and electronic beats that gamers love. If you’ve ever played Dance, Dance Revolution, you’ve heard her pulsing, rhythmic tracks. We learn how she loops her beautifully complex music.

Today on Word of Mouth, the government of Saudi Arabia is using art therapy and religious education to reform militant extremists, even buying them cars and helping them find wives. They boast impressive recidivism rates, so should the U.S. consider following the Saudi’s lead? Plus, in this dizzying world of Twitter and Facebook posts, how is language changing? We’ll examine the next generation of Schoolhouse Rock with the star of the Grammar Girl podcast. And will 2009 be remembered as the year that hip-hop died?