From shelf life to shelf appeal, Jessica Wynn explores the science and psychology of food packaging on this week's Skeptical Sunday!

• Food packaging evolved from natural containers (shells, leaves) to complex materials, fundamentally changing how we store and consume food. The industrial revolution particularly accelerated this evolution.
• Modern food packaging is heavily regulated, with strict requirements for nutritional labeling, ingredients lists, and safety standards. The FDA didn't mandate standardized nutrition facts panels until 1990.
• Package design psychology significantly influences consumer behavior — colors (red/yellow stimulate appetite), placement, and imagery affect purchasing decisions within 90 seconds of viewing.
• Smart packaging technology is emerging, with developments like RFID tracking and nanosensors that can detect food freshness, contamination, and proper storage conditions.
• Consumers can make a positive impact on this industry by supporting companies using sustainable packaging alternatives and staying informed about packaging innovations — this helps drive industry change while maintaining food safety and convenience.
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Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1082

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Co-parenting with a narcissistic ex in prison wasn't part of the plan. Now he wants phone calls with your son. What could go wrong? This is Feedback Friday!

And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in!

• You're co-parenting with your ex who is currently in prison for multiple crimes including drugs, guns, and stolen property. Your young son misses his dad and wants phone calls, but you're concerned about your ex's narcissistic tendencies and potential for retaliation. How do you protect both your son's heart and your safety?
• You've been a loyal employee for 11 years, but after your company was acquired, you discovered new hires are making significantly more than you. With a recent acquisition of an Indian company making everyone nervous about job security, how do you advocate for fair pay without rocking the boat?
• Your nephew's friend fell victim to a devastating online scam involving compromising photos, leading to tragic consequences. As these scams targeting young people become more prevalent, what can parents and communities do to prevent similar tragedies?
• Your fiancée bought a house without your input, following her parents' wishes rather than your shared plans. Now she wants to live alone first and might not give you space for your belongings. Is this just about the house, or is there something deeper going on?
• Recommendation of the Week: Portuguese Reggae Music
• You're torn between joining the Marine Corps and pursuing graduate studies in Milan, Italy. Having experienced both the military culture and European life, you're struggling to choose between duty and adventure. Which path leads to your authentic self?
• Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com!
• Connect with Jordan on Twitter at @JordanHarbinger and Instagram at @jordanharbinger.
• Connect with Gabriel on Twitter at @GabeMizrahi and Instagram @gabrielmizrahi.

Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1081

Technology is rewiring our brains and relationships. Dr. Alok Kanojia explains how modern conveniences make us less resilient and what we can do about it!

• Technology and apps have become like an invasive species — our brains haven't evolved to handle them properly, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and difficulty forming relationships.
• Cultural conditioning that only validates male anger while dismissing other emotions results in psychological difficulties and destructive behaviors.
• The proliferation of convenience apps and services is diminishing our natural resilience and problem-solving abilities.
• Many young people struggle with purpose because external pressures and technology have drowned out their internal signals and emotional awareness.
• The good news is these issues can be addressed through intentional work on social skills, emotional awareness, and reducing technology dependence. Studies show even small interventions like watching educational content can improve mental health outcomes by ~10%, and more structured programs can show significant improvement in just three or four months.
• And much more...

Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1080

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