The Curiosity Desk

August 4th, 2026

First up, Amherst College environmental historian Edward D. Melillo discusses the role that bird poop played in establishing America’s global dominance in the 19th century – and how it all ties back to the Strait of Hormuz. 

Then, we welcome back Gal Tziperman Lotan with Four Things to Know for Tuesday, August 4th. 

Lastly, its National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day – Edgar meets ​David Leite, founder of Leite's Culinaria to talk about the cookie’s local origins and how to perfect the recipe. We’ll also open up phone and text lines to hear from callers.