The last places without human sounds (w/ Matt Mikkelsen)
Summary
Host Chris Hayes interviews Matthew Mickelson, a sound engineer and director of Quiet Parks International, about the critical need to preserve natural quiet from noise pollution. Mickelson distinguishes between physical silence and the emotional feeling of quiet, explaining how anthropogenic noise harms both human health and wildlife communication. He shares personal anecdotes, including recording coyotes and surviving a lightning strike, to illustrate how mindful listening can restore a sense of wonder and connection to the natural world.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and show introduction
Introducing Matthew Mickelson and noise pollution
Ad break: Best Western, Bombas, and Toyota
Defining quiet vs. silence and Matthew's background
The importance of preserving quiet spaces
Health impacts of noise pollution
Personal experiences with quiet and scientific criteria
Subjective perception of sound and natural environments
Noise pollution vs. useful information in soundscapes
Quiet Parks International mission and programs
Ad break: Wayfair, Kohler, and Ethos
Sound as a memory trigger and recording nature
Recording coyotes in Yellowstone and near-death experiences
What sounds resonate most with listeners
Listening with wonder and avoiding distraction
Practical tips for mindful listening in daily life
Favorite sounds: sexiest, loneliest, and happiest
Outro, audience survey, and final sponsors
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