
Talk Nerdy with Cara Santa Maria
Cara Santa Maria is a science communicator, television host, producer, and journalist. She is excited to present "Talk Nerdy," a place for conversations with interesting people about interesting topics.
Latest episodes

Jun 3, 2025 • 54min
Animal Illness w/ Liz Kalaugher
In this episode of Talk Nerdy, Cara is joined by science journalist and author, Liz Kalaugher. They discuss Liz’s newly released book, “The Elephant in the Room: How to Stop Making Ourselves and Other Animals Sick.” Follow Liz: @LizKalaugher

May 26, 2025 • 57min
Proteins & SciComm w/ Maggie Fink
In this episode of Talk Nerdy, Cara is joined by microbiologist, science communicator, Adjunct Professor at Indiana University South Bend and postdoctoral researcher at the University of Notre Dame, Dr. Maggie M. Fink. They discuss her newest co-authored book, “The Color of North: The Molecular Language of Proteins and the Future of Life.” Follow Maggie: @MaggieMFink

May 19, 2025 • 59min
The Intermediaries w/ Brandy Schillace
In this episode of Talk Nerdy, Cara is joined by author, historian, journalist and mystery novelist, Brandy Schillace, PHD. They discuss Brandy’s newest book, “The Intermediaries: A Weimar Story.” Follow Brandy: @bschillace.brandyschillace.com

May 12, 2025 • 59min
Intraterrestrials w/ Karen G. Lloyd
In this episode of Talk Nerdy, Cara is joined by microbial biogeochemist, Professor of Earth Science and Wrigley Chair in Environmental Studies at the University of Southern California, Dr. Karen G. Lloyd. They discuss Karen’s new book, “Intraterrestrials: Discovering the Strangest Life on Earth.” Follow Karen: @KarenLloyd

May 5, 2025 • 1h 6min
Historical Abortion w/ Mary Fissell
In this episode of Talk Nerdy, Cara is joined by Inaugural J. Mario Molina Professor of the History of Medicine in the Department of the History of Medicine at the Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Mary Fissell. They talk about her book, “Pushback: The 2,500-Year Fight to Thwart Women by Restricting Abortion.”

Apr 28, 2025 • 1h 5min
Education w/ John B. King, Jr.
In this episode of Talk Nerdy, Cara is joined by educator, civil servant, and the 15th Chancellor of the State University of New York (SUNY), John B. King, Jr. We discuss his new book, “Teacher By Teacher: The People Who Change Our Lives.” Follow John: @John.B.King

Apr 21, 2025 • 1h 14min
Wild Kingdom w/ Rae Wynn-Grant
In this episode of Talk Nerdy, Cara is joined by wildlife ecologist, TV presenter, author, and science communicator, Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant. They discuss Rae’s newest project co-hosting NBC’s original series Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild. This new series showcases wildlife success stories across the United States and inspires the next generation of conservationists. Follow Rae: @raewynngrant

Apr 14, 2025 • 1h 1min
Wild By Design w/ Laura J. Martin
In this episode of Talk Nerdy, Cara is joined by historian, ecologist, and environmental studies professor at Williams College, Dr. Laura J. Martin. They discuss her book, “Wild by Design: The Rise of Ecological Restoration.” Follow Laura: @Laura_J_Martin

Apr 7, 2025 • 1h 12min
History of the Female Body w/ Helen King
In this episode of Talk Nerdy, Cara is joined by Dr. Helen King. Helen is a Professor Emerita of Classical Studies at The Open University, and an elected member of the General Synod of the Church of England, where she is vice chair of Together. They discuss her newest book: “Immaculate Forms: A History of the Female Body in Four Parts.” Follow Helen: @helenking

Mar 31, 2025 • 1h 9min
Autism Spectrum w/ Gina Rippon
Gina Rippon, Emeritus Professor of Cognitive Neuroimaging, dives into the complex world of autism. She discusses her upcoming book highlighting the research gaps affecting women and girls on the spectrum. The conversation explores advancements in neuroimaging techniques like MEG, making assessments more accessible for young patients. Rippon also emphasizes the shift in viewing autism as a neurodivergent experience, the social dynamics at play, and the need for more inclusive environments. Her insights advocate for tailored interventions that embrace individuality.