The Quanta Podcast
Quanta Magazine
Exploring the distant universe, the insides of cells, the abstractions of math, the complexity of information itself, and much more, The Quanta Podcast is a tour of the frontier between the known and the unknown. In each episode, Quanta Magazine Editor-in-Chief Samir Patel speaks with the minds behind the award-winning publication to navigate through some of the most important and mind-expanding questions in science and math. Quanta specifically covers fundamental research — driven by curiosity, discovery and the overwhelming desire to know why and how. Join us every Tuesday for a stimulating conversation about the biggest ideas and the tiniest details.(If you've been a fan of the Quanta Science Podcast, it will continue here. You'll see those episodes marked as audio edition episodes every two weeks.)
Episodes
Mentioned books
41 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 25min
How Amateurs Solved a Major Computer Science Puzzle
Ben Brubaker, a notable computer science staff writer for Quanta Magazine, dives into the fascinating world of the Busy Beaver puzzle. He shares how a diverse online community came together, solving a computer science conundrum that baffled experts for over 40 years. The discussion reveals insights about Turing machines, the collaborative dynamics behind amateur problem-solving, and the implications of Busy Beaver numbers. Brubaker also reflects on the passion that drives enthusiasts to tackle such intricate challenges in computation.
30 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 26min
The Mysterious Math of Turbulence
In this lively discussion, Joe Howlett, a math writer for Quanta, delves into the complex world of turbulence. He explains the concept of superdiffusion and its significance in understanding fluid dynamics. With vivid anecdotes from the historic Gordon Bennett Cup balloon race, Joe illustrates the unpredictability faced by pioneers—a metaphor for the chaos in mathematics today. The conversation also touches on the elusive Navier-Stokes equations, revealing profound mathematical insights that connect to real-world applications like weather forecasting and kayaking.
44 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 20min
Audio Edition: Concept Cells Help Your Brain Abstract Information and Build Memories
Explore the fascinating world of concept cells in the brain that respond to specific ideas and play a key role in memory formation. These unique neurons, famously known as 'Jennifer Aniston cells,' illuminate how we think and imagine. Delve into the evolution of our understanding of these cells and their importance in processing abstract concepts. Unravel the mystery behind how our brains construct personal narratives and retain memories.
24 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 20min
Birds' Migratory Mitochondria
Hannah Waters, a biology editor at Quanta and seasoned science journalist, dives into the remarkable adaptations that allow birds to undertake epic migrations. She discusses how changes in mitochondrial characteristics provide the needed energy for these journeys. The conversation highlights the efficiency of migratory birds' mitochondria and their intriguing role in energy production and cellular communication. Waters also touches on the potential applications of these findings for enhancing human athletic performance, bridging the gap between avian endurance and human capabilities.
26 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 24min
Singularities Are Hard to Kill
Charlie Wood, a physics writer for Quanta Magazine, dives into the challenges of singularities in black holes and the Big Bang. He discusses how these cosmic phenomena break our current understanding of gravity, pushing physicists to explore extreme conditions at the edges of space and time. The conversation highlights the struggle to unify general relativity with quantum mechanics, revealing both the scientific hurdles and philosophical implications. Wood even adds a humorous twist by discussing the concept of sonifying black hole data for a truly unique auditory experience.
21 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 9min
Audio Edition: Heat Destroys All Order. Except for in This One Special Case.
Discover the groundbreaking concept of heat-resistant magnetism that defies the usual destructive properties of heat. Scientists unveil a theoretical substance capable of retaining magnetic order at extreme temperatures. This unexpected resilience could reshape our understanding of cosmology and open doors to advanced quantum technologies. The podcast explores the collaborative journey behind this revolutionary idea, igniting excitement for future applications in superconductivity and beyond.
75 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 19min
In Computers, Memory Is More Useful Than Time
In this engaging discussion, Ben Brubaker, a staff writer at Quanta Magazine, dives into the intriguing relationship between memory and time in computing. He unveils a groundbreaking proof that sheds light on a 50-year-old question in computer science. The conversation highlights how prioritizing space can revolutionize problem-solving and improve computational strategies. Brubaker also connects theoretical math to real-world applications, illustrating how everyday challenges mirror algorithmic efficiency. Expect insightful analogies and a glimpse into the future of computational theory!
50 snips
May 27, 2025 • 21min
Math and Beauty in the Age of AI
Jordana Cepelewicz, Math editor at Quanta Magazine, dives into the evolving landscape of mathematics amidst AI advancements. She discusses how mathematicians are adapting to new tools, questioning if AI enhances or hinders creativity. The conversation delves into the philosophical beauty of proofs, likening them to cathedral building. Jordana also examines the role of large language models in education and the mixed feelings mathematicians have about AI—ranging from trepidation to collaboration opportunities.
48 snips
May 22, 2025 • 19min
Audio Edition: Can AI Models Show Us How People Learn? Impossible Languages Point a Way.
Delve into the intriguing world of artificial languages that defy known grammatical rules. Discover how linguists are leveraging AI models to unravel the mysteries of language learning. The conversation highlights groundbreaking experiments that challenge our understanding of how both humans and machines acquire language. Prepare for a fascinating exploration of the parallels and divergences in language acquisition, as AI reveals insights into the learning process.
57 snips
May 20, 2025 • 19min
AI Is Nothing Like a Brain, and That’s OK
Yasmin Sapulakolu, a Quanta staff writer, dives into the captivating differences between AI and the human brain. She discusses how neural networks mimic yet fall short of the brain's incredible complexity. The conversation touches on merging biological neurons with digital networks, shedding light on the groundbreaking cooperation between neuroscience and AI. Yasmin also explores alternative intelligences and our emotional connections with AI, concluding with a unique musical fusion inspired by their discussion.
