Adrien Plouffe, a factory automation engineer at GlobalFoundries, dives into the fascinating world of robotics and automation in microchip manufacturing. He explores how robots work, their design decisions, and the processes behind microchip production. Listeners learn about the functions of robots in manufacturing, from transporting materials to their programmed movements. The discussion also touches on whether robots can be considered alive and encourages kids to explore their interests in robotics and STEM education, sparking curiosity and inspiring future innovators.

Zoologist Arik Kirschenbaum, author of *Why Animals Talk*, dives into the captivating world of animal communication. He discusses why animals can't speak human language and explores the unique ways different species convey messages. Discover how parrots mimic human speech while other birds don’t, and learn about the communicative talents of dolphins and wolves. Arik also shares insights into the evolutionary roots of language and the complexities behind animal interactions, sparking curiosity about the communication of our furry and feathered friends.

Mary Roach, the witty author of Gulp: Adventures on the Alimentary Canal, dives into the fascinating world of digestion. She unpacks why we poop and the science behind poop's brown color and smell. Listeners learn why fiber is crucial for digestion and how astronauts tackle bathroom breaks in space. Roach also highlights the surprising roles of poop in nature, discussing its benefits for flies and bacteria, making this a playful yet informative conversation on a topic that’s often avoided.

Clinical psychologist Eileen Kennedy-Moore, known as Dr. Friendtastic, dives into the complexities of anxiety in children. She explains how moderate anxiety can be a useful survival mechanism, while excessive worry may hinder growth and enjoyment. Eileen offers practical tips for managing anxiety, including the 'badness scale' to assess fears and emphasizing small acts of courage to build confidence. She reassures young listeners that they're not alone, as even adults face similar feelings, fostering a sense of shared experience.

Join Vermont's Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas, who oversees statewide elections, and South Burlington City Clerk Holly Reese, who prepares the voting equipment. They dive into the voting process, explaining how ballots are counted in Vermont and the stringent protocols ensuring election integrity. Discover how kids can engage by observing voting machines and counting processes. Plus, learn about the importance of transparency and the balance between security and access to voting—a fascinating peek into the electoral system!

Bridgett King, a political scientist from the University of Kentucky, dives into the world of elections and voting systems. She explains why kids can’t vote and unpacks the meaning behind red and blue states. The discussion reveals how someone can win the popular vote but still lose the presidency, and she debates the significance of the Electoral College. King also emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and understanding voting rights, making complex topics fun and accessible for young listeners.

A brand new food-focused podcast encourages kids to get creative in the kitchen. Celebrate the versatility of corn, from raw cobs to delicious tacos, while uncovering fun facts and agricultural insights. Dive into the ancient art of nixtamalization and learn how to make homemade tortillas. Discover the science behind popcorn popping through a fun demonstration and enjoy stories about cooking adventures. With recipes and joyful anecdotes, this podcast makes cooking with corn an exciting experience!

Melissa Raddatz, a family nurse practitioner specializing in bone health, dives into the fascinating world of bones. She answers why we have bones and how many we actually possess. Listeners learn about the differences in bone structure from infants to adults and what happens when we break them. Raddatz explains the healing process and the significance of casts. With statistics revealing that nearly half of kids will break a bone, she also shares valuable tips on injury prevention that every parent should know.

In this engaging discussion, Josh Castonguay, a representative from Vermont utility Green Mountain Power, sheds light on the fascinating world of wind turbines. He explains how these giants convert wind into electricity and the essential role of blade size. The conversation dives into the integration of wind energy with other renewables, emphasizing the benefits of a diverse energy portfolio. Josh also touches on future innovations in clean energy, including advances in turbine technology and the growing demand for sustainable energy careers.

Join earthworm detective Sam James, who uncovers the hidden wonders of earthworms, and a young composting enthusiast managing her family’s food scraps. Discover how these fascinating creatures communicate without eyes and why they come out in the rain. Learn about the role of slime in their movement and the importance of earthworms for soil health. Plus, get tips on starting your own worm farm and cultivating nutrient-rich compost for gardening. It's a wiggly adventure filled with fun facts!