Raccoon intelligence is one of the most colloquially accepted ideas in North American wildlife, and one of the least formally studied. There are 167 known types of blood cancer. There is almost no peer-reviewed research on how raccoons think. One PhD candidate at UBC is trying to change that.

The puzzle box had three problems on it and one marshmallow inside. The raccoon solved a problem, retrieved the marshmallow, confirmed by sight and touch and probably smell that the box was empty, and kept solving. That is the result Hannah Griebling did not fully expect and cannot entirely explain yet.

They are not bears. They are weasels. They do not have a true opposable thumb despite everything those hands can do. The gap between what we assume about raccoons and what science has actually confirmed is wider than almost anyone realizes.

Topics: raccoon intelligence, animal cognition, raccoon problem solving, urban wildlife behaviour, UBC research, trash panda

GUEST: Hannah Griebling

Originally aired on 2026-04-13

Raccoon intelligence is one of the most colloquially accepted ideas in North American wildlife, and one of the least formally studied. There are 167 known types of blood cancer. There is almost no peer-reviewed research on how raccoons think. One PhD candidate at UBC is trying to change that.
The puzzle box had three problems on it and one marshmallow inside. The raccoon solved a problem, retrieved the marshmallow, confirmed by sight and touch and probably smell that the box was empty, and kept solving. That is the result Hannah Griebling did not fully expect and cannot entirely explain yet.
They are not bears. They are weasels. They do not have a true opposable thumb despite everything those hands can do. The gap between what we assume about raccoons and what science has actually confirmed is wider than almost anyone realizes.
Topics: raccoon intelligence, animal cognition, raccoon problem solving, urban wildlife behaviour, UBC research, trash panda
GUEST: Hannah Griebling
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-04-13

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.