
Science, Spoken
Get in-depth coverage of current and future trends in technology, and how they are shaping business, entertainment, communications, science, politics, and society.
Latest episodes

Feb 27, 2024 • 9min
What Would Happen if Every American Got a Heat Pump
Explore the benefits of heat pumps over gas furnaces, including emissions reduction and cost savings. Learn about federal and state initiatives to promote heat pump adoption. Discover the impact of heat pumps on emissions reduction, public health, and energy usage in the US. Dive into the financial incentives and efficiency improvements driving heat pump usage and the electrification benefits.

Feb 26, 2024 • 7min
A New Startup Wants to Turn the Sugar You Eat Into Fiber
A startup, Zya, is working on a way to turn sugar into fiber in the digestive system, potentially changing how we view dietary habits. Enzyme technology is being used to convert sugar to fiber in food products, with companies like Kraft Heinz also embracing this innovation for healthier eating options.

Feb 23, 2024 • 2min
The Transport Companies Leaving Fossil Fuels Behind
Exploring hydrogen-powered planes, fuel-efficient aircraft designs, and the shift towards electric parcel delivery services in the transport sector. Experts emphasize the need for government support for cleaner transport and address challenges like EV infrastructure and market fragmentation.

Feb 22, 2024 • 10min
Metal Prices Are Soaring. So Is Metal Theft
Explore the rising global metal theft incidents and infrastructure damage, from stolen highway fencing in India to a full bridge theft in 2022. Learn about the surge in metal theft driven by soaring metal prices and the extreme measures individuals take for metal scavenging. Address the resurgence of metal theft with preventative policing and crime prediction, advocating for measures like mandatory seller photos and increased penalties.

Feb 21, 2024 • 4min
Tech Still Isn’t Doing Enough to Care for the Environment
Priscilla Chomba-Kinywa, CTO of Greenpeace, emphasizes the need for tech companies to prioritize environmental responsibility. She calls for investments in green platforms, ethical practices, and collaboration with impacted communities.

Feb 20, 2024 • 6min
Los Angeles Just Proved How Spongy a City Can Be
Exploring Los Angeles' sponge infrastructure that gathered 8.6 billion gallons of water, showcasing the city's commitment to sustainability. Adapting urban hydrology from concrete to sponges, managing stormwater through green spaces and aquifer recharge. Innovative stormwater management techniques in LA using spreading grounds and green spaces to replenish aquifers and enhance resident well-being.

Feb 19, 2024 • 9min
Kyiv Is Using Homegrown Tech to Treat the Trauma of War
Exploring how Kyiv is addressing mental health impact of war with homegrown tech, leveraging digital tools for support, and tackling trauma with ongoing initiatives post-crisis.

Feb 16, 2024 • 5min
The Leading Lab-Grown-Meat Company Just Paused a Major Expansion
Leading lab-grown meat company, Upside Foods, pauses expansion of Illinois factory, focusing on existing plant. Lab-grown meat industry faces challenges with funding and revenue generation without significant investment.

Feb 15, 2024 • 4min
Why Fake Caviar Could Be the Solution to Plastic Pollution
The podcast explores the solution to plastic pollution using fake caviar made from seaweed, with the CEO of Nautpla discussing the advantages of this sustainable packaging solution over plastic and their implementation plans.

Feb 14, 2024 • 8min
Farming Prioritizes Cows and Cars—Not People
Farmers and scientists prioritize high crop yields instead of plants people eat, exploring the National Corn Yield Contest and sustainable methods of feeding the world, while discussing stagnant rice yields and suggestions to increase productivity.