

The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe
Dr. Steven Novella
The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe is a weekly science podcast discussing the latest science news, critical thinking, bad science, conspiracies and controversies. -The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe: Your escape to reality - Produced by SGU Productions, LLC: https://www.theskepticsguide.org
Episodes
Mentioned books

22 snips
Sep 13, 2025 • 0sec
The Skeptics Guide #1053 - Sep 13 2025
Dive into the discovery of Earth's quasi-moon and the fascinating concept of microbots powered by light, revolutionizing drug delivery. Caution is urged around Tylenol's links to autism, while the evolution of musical preferences showcases generational shifts. Explore the innovative wearable device allowing silent communication, and wrestle with the alarming decline in science education scores. Finally, enjoy playful insights into otters and groundbreaking discussions on gravitational waves that may confirm Stephen Hawking's theories.

6 snips
Sep 6, 2025 • 0sec
The Skeptics Guide #1052 - Sep 6 2025
George Robb, a familiar voice in the skeptic community, shares his insights on critical thinking and interactive games. He delves into the fascinating debate surrounding interstellar technosignatures and the need for scientific rigor. The discussion also touches on groundbreaking advancements in CRISPR technology, including delivery systems that could revolutionize genetic editing. Additionally, Robb explores the dynamics of romantic attraction influenced by mental health, creating a blend of science, humor, and engaging dialogue throughout.

28 snips
Aug 30, 2025 • 0sec
The Skeptics Guide #1051 - Aug 30 2025
Discover the fascinating world of fast radio bursts from galaxies far away and the groundbreaking biochar solution to food waste. Learn about the humorous mispronunciations of Uranus while debating chiropractic practices. Delve into the alarming decline of reading for pleasure in America and explore skepticism surrounding paranormal beliefs. Plus, enjoy a fun guessing game of mystery sounds with listeners and debunk viral myths about mammograms, all while embracing the joy of learning in various skills.

6 snips
Aug 23, 2025 • 0sec
The Skeptics Guide #1050 - Aug 23 2025
In this engaging discussion, the hosts delve into the fascinating intersection of historical alchemy and modern science, exploring the unlikely fusion of mercury into gold. They also highlight the surprising adoption of AI by older Americans, showcasing how tech engages different generations. Groundbreaking advancements in non-surgical vision correction and semi-solid state batteries for electric vehicles are discussed, alongside the complexities of online discourse and navigating logical fallacies. The fun guessing game 'Who's That Noisy?' adds an entertaining twist!

24 snips
Aug 16, 2025 • 0sec
The Skeptics Guide #1049 - Aug 16 2025
The hosts share thrilling tales from Alaska, including insights on grizzly and brown bears. A heartfelt tribute honors astronaut Jim Lovell and the Apollo 13 mission. The potential of lithium for Alzheimer's treatment sparks a deep discussion about funding and ethical challenges in research. Meanwhile, the buzz surrounding ChatGPT-5 reveals both its advancements and user concerns. The show also covers the intriguing realm of mini nuclear reactors and unverified celebrity health claims, blending humor with education throughout.

13 snips
Aug 9, 2025 • 0sec
The Skeptics Guide #1048 - Aug 9 2025
This conversation delves into fascinating innovations like a new tech that can extract water from air, addressing global water scarcity. It also tackles the development of depleted uranium batteries and their potential impact on energy storage. A captivating examination of the Shroud of Turin raises questions about its origins. Additionally, they explore cosmic wonders, including the extraordinary speed of a star near a black hole, while dissecting pandemic theories and the future of Web 3.0 standards. Packed with humor and critical insights, it's an engaging exploration of science and technology.

11 snips
Aug 2, 2025 • 0sec
The Skeptics Guide #1047 - Aug 2 2025
The hosts share their Alaska adventure and debate climate change urgency. They delve into the need for nuclear energy in the renewable transition and discuss coronary artery calcium scans as crucial for heart health. Innovations in geothermal drilling with gyrotron technology and the construction of the massive Windrunner cargo plane for wind power logistics are highlighted. They also examine dental floss vaccines, ape communication, and challenge popular misconceptions about science, emphasizing critical thinking and the clash between belief and empirical evidence.

7 snips
Jul 26, 2025 • 0sec
The Skeptics Guide #1046 - Jul 26 2025
Discover the quirky world of 'fossil words' and how language evolves over time. Dive into groundbreaking weight loss innovations with the injectable CBL514, targeting belly fat. Explore the intersection of social media and healthcare, alongside the spine-chilling tales of the haunted doll Annabelle. Engage in a lively game of 'Science or Fiction,' testing your knowledge on Malta's mysteries. Finally, mix laughter with skepticism as the hosts dissect extraterrestrial claims and ghost-hunting legends.

10 snips
Jul 19, 2025 • 0sec
The Skeptics Guide #1045 - Jul 19 2025
Explore the bizarre exoplanet KELT-9b, a gas giant heating up the cosmos! Discover the thrilling revival of Voyager 1's thrusters, enabling communication after years of dormancy. Dive into the ethical dilemmas of vaccine approvals and the need for better media platforms. Navigate the booming space tourism industry, questioning the distinction between astronauts and tourists. Plus, enjoy a playful game involving real and imaginary creatures linked by 'pig' and contemplate cultural perceptions of meat flavors.

Jul 12, 2025 • 0sec
The Skeptics Guide #1044 - Jul 12 2025
In a lively mix of topics, the hosts tackle the absurd concept of banning left turns to improve traffic safety. They dive into the alarming potential of the H5N1 bird flu outbreak and what it could mean for global food security. A fascinating look at interstellar comets, including the newly discovered Atlas, highlights our cosmic neighborhood. Therapeutic beekeeping emerges as a surprising mental health booster, while a critique of AI in tech support underscores the need for human touch in customer service. Plus, a breakthrough in kidney transplants raises hopes for patients!