
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

May 22, 2024 • 7min
The World Is Ignoring the—Other—Deadly Kind of Carbon
Discover the alarming effects of black carbon emissions on health and climate, particularly in the Arctic where ever-fiercer wildfires are exacerbating ice melt. Learn about the importance of addressing black carbon alongside other greenhouse gases for climate mitigation efforts and the need for preventive measures like controlled burns and cleaner energy sources.

May 21, 2024 • 10min
Hydro Dams Are Struggling to Handle the World’s Intensifying Weather
Learn about the challenges faced by hydro dams worldwide due to intensifying weather, and the innovative strategies being implemented to adapt to erratic conditions. Discover how scientists are using advanced forecasting techniques and weather data to enhance dam operations and effectively manage water resources.

May 20, 2024 • 9min
City Trees Save Lives
Discover the importance of city trees in cooling urban areas and reducing heat-related health emergencies. Learn how increasing tree cover can significantly lower ER visits due to extreme heat, benefiting vulnerable populations. Explore urban tree planting strategies and initiatives in Los Angeles to combat the urban heat island effect.

May 19, 2024 • 10min
An Epic Fight Over What Really Killed the Dinosaurs
Exploring the debate between asteroid impact and volcanic activity as causes of dinosaur extinction, unraveling ancient climate patterns and extinction events, and discussing the uncertainties in their combined role in the extinction event.

May 17, 2024 • 6min
Lab-Grown Meat Is on Shelves Now. But There’s a Catch
Lab-grown chicken with 3% animal cells now available in a store in Singapore, discussing challenges, compromises, taste, texture, and implications for the cultivated meat industry. Also, exploring financial struggles, consumer adoption hurdles, and strategies of cultivated meat startups to secure investments and consumer interest.

May 16, 2024 • 9min
Saunas Are the Next Frontier in Fighting Depression
Discover how sauna therapy is being explored as a potential treatment for depression, backed by promising clinical trial results. Dive into the benefits of heat therapy on mood regulation, thermoregulation, and circadian rhythms, offering a new approach to mental health treatment.

May 15, 2024 • 4min
The First Person to Receive a Pig Kidney Transplant Has Died
Exploring the first genetically modified pig kidney transplant and its impact on addressing the organ shortage crisis. Discussing the use of pig organs in human transplants and the advancements in genetic engineering to mitigate rejection risks. Shedding light on the lasting impact of a patient's transplant journey on the medical community.

May 14, 2024 • 7min
These Artificial Blood Platelets Could One Day Save Lives
Discover the creation of synthetic blood platelets as a solution to platelet scarcity and their potential benefits in trauma treatment. Explore how these artificial platelets mimic natural behavior to avoid adverse reactions and abnormal clotting, offering exciting prospects for healthcare advancements.

May 13, 2024 • 8min
The Earth Is About to Feast on Dead Cicadas
Two rare cicada broods are emerging simultaneously after 221 years, providing a feast for birds, trees, and humans. The swarming behavior of the cicadas in Illinois is impacting local ecosystems. Learn about the beneficial role of cicadas in ecosystem health and how they engage citizen scientists through the Cicada Safari app.

May 10, 2024 • 6min
Sell Lab-Grown Meat in Alabama and You Could Go to Jail
Debate over selling lab-grown meat in Alabama and Florida with political and legal perspectives. Controversy on companies selling despite bans, highlighting conflicting viewpoints on consumer choice and innovation.