
Into the Impossible With Brian Keating
Think like a physicist. Wonder like a human. Into the Impossible is where Cosmic Conversations happen — uniting Nobel Prize winners, iconoclasts, authors, and technologists to explore reality’s deepest questions. From AI to aliens, from biophysics to the brain, from the cosmos to the multiverse, Brian Keating, Chancellor’s Distinguished Professor of Physics at UC San Diego covers it all.If you’ve ever asked What’s out there? or What’s next?, this is where curiosity meets clarity.Learn to think like this. 🎙 Full episodes, notes & more: briankeating.com/podcast
Latest episodes

May 29, 2025 • 29min
The Scientists: The Giving Valve (inspired by Richard Dawkins' Selfish Gene)
Dive into a thought-provoking reflection on what we truly leave behind. Explore the intriguing idea of the 'giving valve,' emphasizing the importance of values over genetic legacy. Consider whether passing on knowledge and wisdom holds more weight than our genes. Personal anecdotes blend with philosophical insights, challenging us to rethink our influence on future generations. This discussion also contrasts career accomplishments with how we are remembered, urging a deeper connection to our ethical frameworks.

5 snips
May 28, 2025 • 1h 14min
Astrobiologist Says We’ve Been Searching for Aliens the Wrong Way with Nathalie Cabrol
Join Dr. Nathalie Cabrol, director of the Carl Sagan Center at SETI, as she challenges our assumptions about extraterrestrial life. With a focus on Earth’s extreme environments, she questions whether life is dependent on our traditional ideas like water and warmth. The discussion touches on the rarity of intelligent life, the implications of broadcasting our existence, and the possibility of non-carbon-based life forms. Cabrol compellingly argues that we may be looking for aliens in all the wrong places and reflects on the survival of our own civilization.

23 snips
May 23, 2025 • 56min
Did Eric Weinstein Just Delete Einstein’s Cosmological Constant - Confirmed by DESI?
In this engaging discussion, Eric Weinstein, an investor and host of The Portal, revisits his groundbreaking unified theory of physics proposed in 2013. He critiques Einstein's cosmological constant and advocates for geometric unity to tackle dark energy's mysteries. Delving into complex topics like quantum gravity and higher-dimensional space, Weinstein challenges traditional views and suggests a fresh framework for understanding the universe. His insights promise to reshape perspectives on the fundamental forces at play.

18 snips
May 22, 2025 • 27min
The Scientists Ep. 3: Isaac Asimov -- Atomic Habits
Dive into the remarkable life of Isaac Asimov, where science meets storytelling. Explore how his unique ability to make chemistry accessible has inspired countless aspiring scientists. From the drama of the periodic table to the tales of groundbreaking discoveries, find out how Asimov transformed complex concepts into captivating narratives. Discover the lasting impact of his nonfiction works, and learn why his contributions to science writing continue to shine brightly today. Uncover the hidden gems of science through the lens of this legendary figure.

29 snips
May 19, 2025 • 1h 5min
How Black Holes Break Reality | Marcus Chown [Ep. 493]
In this enlightening discussion, Marcus Chown, a renowned science writer and broadcaster, delves into the bewildering nature of black holes and their paradoxical ability to erase information. He shares stunning insights on the historical journey of black hole research, spotlighting key scientists who unraveled their mysteries. Chown provocatively poses whether black holes are cosmic destroyers or creators, suggesting they might even foster life. With humor and depth, he explores the profound implications these enigmatic entities hold for our understanding of reality.

4 snips
May 15, 2025 • 25min
The Scientists Ep. 2: Pure Genius - The Feynman Method: How a Physicist Rewired the Way We Learn
Discover the fascinating life of Richard Feynman, a physicist who played a key role in the Manhattan Project while grappling with moral dilemmas. His playful genius shines through stories of safe-cracking and an insatiable curiosity. Delve into his unconventional character, marked by anti-authoritarianism and personal struggles. Explore the unique Feynman Method of teaching that encourages understanding over memorization, leaving a lasting impact on future generations of scientists. His legacy is as complex as it is inspiring!

9 snips
May 13, 2025 • 1h 3min
Can the West Survive? Douglas Murray [Ep. 491]
Douglas Murray, Associate Editor at The Spectator and bestselling author, discusses the ideological crisis facing the West. He examines how skepticism towards foundational beliefs threatens our understanding of truth in various fields. Murray explores the moral implications of empathy, particularly in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and critiques the politicization of academia. He emphasizes the need to uphold objective truths amid growing ideological battles, warning that the real threats to our civilization may come from within.

May 8, 2025 • 20min
The Scientists Ep. 1: Flatland -- Einstein's Muse
Explore the intriguing world of 'Flatland,' a revolutionary Victorian novel that redefined our understanding of dimensions. This discussion uncovers how its themes influenced Einstein's theories and challenged societal norms. Navigate the struggles of the protagonist, a square, as he encounters higher dimensions, illustrating the clash between intellectual conformity and scientific rebellion. Alongside a special segment from Carl Sagan, the conversation invites you to broaden your perspective on reality and the unseen dimensions that lurk beyond our comprehension.

May 8, 2025 • 19min
The Scientists Ep. 0: Obsessive Geniuses
Dive into the extraordinary lives of iconic scientists and the obsessions that fueled their groundbreaking discoveries. Explore the intense human experiences behind monumental scientific breakthroughs. Uncover the transformative influences of revolutionary thinkers like John Wheeler and Emmy Noether. Discover how the messy realities of failure and complexity shape the scientific journey. It’s a captivating look at the minds that changed our world and how their relentless curiosity drove innovation.

12 snips
May 4, 2025 • 1h 1min
He Used Quantum Entanglement to Explain Where the Aliens Are [Ep. 490]
Latham Boyle, a renowned theoretical physicist, dives deep into the Fermi Paradox and cosmic symmetries. He proposes an intriguing theory of a mirror universe that may hold answers to why we don't hear from extraterrestrial civilizations. The conversation explores quantum entanglement's role in potential alien communication, challenging our understanding of dark matter and the universe's beginnings. Boyle's insights suggest we may be missing signals from advanced civilizations simply because we’re not looking in the right way.