Celebrate Pluto Day with a light-hearted dive into the quirky classification of dwarf planets. Explore the surprising findings on indoor air quality and its health implications, particularly regarding abortion bans and infant mortality rates. Rethink black holes as new research challenges traditional singularity concepts. Unpack the myths surrounding chemtrails and their political repercussions. Plus, stay informed on tax scams and their impact on the elderly, while demystifying genetically modified organisms in agriculture.

Explore the commercialization of Valentine's Day and the importance of genuine expressions of love. Dive into the rise of misinformation and the perils of fake research that misleads scientific progress. Discover the dangers of synthetic opioids and their impact on the drug trade. Unpack the intriguing discovery of a nearby super Earth and the speculative allure of investing in reverse-engineered alien technology. Finally, enjoy a whimsical quiz on scientific milestones and a light-hearted discussion on two flamingos.

Discover innovative asteroid deflection strategies using nuclear blasts in a light-hearted yet serious discussion. Explore how modern technology may be affecting our memory, amid urban challenges like the alarming rise of rat populations. Delve into the fascinating theory of mind in bonobos and watch the humor unfold around UFO claims and their lack of evidence. Plus, enjoy playful banter over medical news items in a lively game of 'Science or Fiction,' offering insights into hernias and space debris.

Discover the stunning scenery and rich folklore of Iceland, from the northern lights to geothermal wonders. Dive into the implications of self-replicating AI and the urgent need for regulation as technology evolves. Unpack the fallout from PEPFAR's funding cuts on global health. Explore innovative chemical looping combustion for sustainable energy. Delve into the symbiotic relationship between giant clams and algae while enjoying humorous anecdotes on animal mimicry. Finally, engage with the mysteries of the moon's geology and the narratives shaping our understanding.

Andrea Jones-Roy, a founding director of Notacon, joins the discussion to explore fascinating topics around trust in scientists and surprising research findings. They analyze a global study revealing variable trust in science, especially in countries like Egypt and India. The episode critically examines controversial claims about telepathy in nonverbal autistic children, emphasizing the need for evidence-based approaches. Listeners are also treated to insights on the Andromeda galaxy and its inspiring cosmic story, all while engaging in playful challenges like guessing animal sounds.

Nick Tiller, an exercise scientist and author of "The Skeptic's Guide to Sports Medicine," shares insights on the importance of critical thinking in sports and health. He tackles health misinformation and the popular myths surrounding nutrition and exercise recovery. The conversation also critiques the wellness industry's quick-fix mentality, advocating for sustainable lifestyle changes. Additionally, Tiller discusses fascinating advancements in nuclear electric propulsion and the innovative potential of building materials as carbon sinks to combat climate change.

Explore the alarming rise of wildfires in Los Angeles and their environmental impact. Delve into the fascinating evolution of primate reproduction and the technological advances in NASA's Mars Sample Return mission. Discover the complex role of glacial microbiomes amid climate challenges and the ambitious idea of a transatlantic tunnel. Highlight the Surgeon General's new alcohol consumption advisory linking it to cancer risks. Engage in playful discussions on listener sounds and cultural quirks surrounding cryptids, alongside amusing tech inventions showcased at CES 2025.

The hosts humorously dissect the vague psychic predictions for 2024, poking fun at notable psychics. They delve into endangered species conservation, celebrating triumphs and highlighting challenges. Exciting upcoming space missions for 2025 are explored, alongside intriguing discussions on advances in fusion energy. A tragic tale of Bigfoot enthusiasts reminds listeners of wilderness safety. The crew also reflects on memorable moments, holiday experiences, and the impact of Hedy Lamarr in tech, all while gearing up for an exciting convention.

This engaging discussion reviews the most memorable moments of 2024, celebrating significant milestones and scientific breakthroughs. The hosts delve into the hilarious and bizarre aspects of modern skepticism, including the misinterpretation of historical artifacts and the oddities of social media virality. Highlights include emotional insights on climate change communication and the critical role of effective dialogue in addressing controversial topics. They also honor notable contributions from skeptics while sharing witty anecdotes and reflecting on the intriguing mysteries of our universe.

Live from Washington D.C., the hosts dive into the complex world of digital tipping, exploring how cultural differences shape our practices. They discuss the infamous JonBenet Ramsey case and the media's role in public perception. Scientific wonders emerge with the analysis of primordial black holes and their connection to dark matter. An archaeological breakthrough reveals the earliest known alphabet, while surprising insights into Neanderthal artistry redefine our understanding of ancient humans. The lively Q&A session adds a touch of humor and curiosity throughout.