
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

Jan 16, 2024 • 9min
The Real Problem With the Boeing 737 Max
Discussion on recent incident with Boeing 737 Max, potential causes of door plug blowout, concerns about plane safety checks, impact on Boeing's reputation and finances

Jan 15, 2024 • 10min
Norway’s Deep-Sea Mining Decision Is a Warning
Explore Norway's decision to allow deep-sea mining and the arguments for and against it. Learn about the concerns regarding environmental impact and geopolitical issues. Discover the challenges and implications of the decision, including potential consequences for marine life and ecosystems. Delve into the potential impact on fishing stocks and global pressure for a moratorium on deep-sea mining.

Jan 12, 2024 • 10min
Why Humans Are Putting a Bunch of ‘Coal’ and ‘Oil’ Back in the Ground
The podcast discusses startups converting plant waste into concentrated carbon for burial underground. It explores the use of reactors to prevent microbes from releasing greenhouse gases. Biochar and liquid carbon are also examined as methods of carbon sequestration. The chapter further explores the strengths and challenges of carbon removal technologies and the moral implications of relying on them instead of emissions reduction.

Jan 11, 2024 • 7min
There’s a Huge Covid Surge Right Now and Nobody Is Talking About It
The podcast discusses the current surge in COVID infections in the US, the challenges of tracking infections without proper testing, and the impact of co-circulation of respiratory viruses. It emphasizes the importance of vaccinations and staying up-to-date on vaccines, and discusses the efficacy of the 2023-2024 COVID booster and its potential benefits in reducing the risk of long COVID.

Jan 10, 2024 • 11min
How Your Body Adapts to Extreme Cold
Scientists explore human body adaptations to extreme cold and the potential impact of climate change. Topics include the effects of climate change on extreme weather events, thermoregulation during winter backpacking, and a research project studying body adaptations to cold climates.

Jan 9, 2024 • 7min
Yes, the Climate Crisis Is Now ‘Gobsmacking.’ But So Is Some Progress
Exploring the challenges of communicating climate urgency without overwhelming the public. Scientists as objective observers and the importance of effective communication. Emphasizing progress in climate action: government initiatives and decreasing costs of clean energy.

Jan 8, 2024 • 8min
Critical Infrastructure Is Sinking Along the US East Coast
The podcast discusses the issue of land subsidence along the US East Coast and its implications for critical infrastructure. It highlights the increased vulnerability to flooding and the need to protect coastal cities and infrastructure. The chapter explores the risks posed to roads, railways, and communities, emphasizing the importance of data collection and management strategies to mitigate subsidence-related risks.

Jan 5, 2024 • 7min
A Gel Injected Into the Scrotum Could Be the Next Male Contraceptive
Contraline, a biotech company, has developed a reversible vasectomy gel that blocks sperm from getting into semen. They have safely implanted it in 23 men. The podcast explores the effectiveness and composition of the gel, as well as other forms of male contraceptive being developed.

Jan 4, 2024 • 6min
Former NBA Star Rick Fox Is Making a Play for Carbon-Neutral Concrete
Carbon-neutral concrete could transform construction’s footprint—if it can scale in time. At Partanna Global, Bahamian basketball star and actor Rick Fox is trying to speed things up.Read this story here.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

4 snips
Jan 3, 2024 • 8min
Your Eco-Friendly Lifestyle Is a Big Lie
Eating organic and switching to low-energy light bulbs feels like the green thing to do, but are people missing the bigger opportunities right in front of them?Read this story here.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices