Brains On! Science podcast for kids

Dr. Paula Cushing, senior curator and 30-year spider researcher, explains spider and wasp interactions. She describes how spiders trap, venomize, and externally digest wasps. The show also covers wasps that hunt and paralyze spiders, like tarantula hawks. Short segments highlight specialized hunters and surprising spider strategies.

Philip Messersmith, a materials scientist and professor at UC Berkeley, talks about the science behind adhesives and medical patches. Short segments explain how glue fills microscopic bumps and why pressure helps stickers stick. There’s a dive into scratch-and-sniff tech and the challenges of making stickers that work inside the body.

Lucy Cooke, a zoologist and founder of the Sloth Appreciation Society, shares her passion for sloths, discussing their unique adaptations and fascinating behavior. She reveals why sloths are energy-efficient movers and even faster swimmers than crawlers! Jonathan Pauli, an ecologist, solves the mystery of sloths descending to the ground to poop, highlighting their quirky relationships with sloth moths and algae that enhance their camouflage. The conversation also touches on other slow animals, showcasing the art of taking things slow.

Have you heard the myth about Lake Natron turning animals to stone? The Hoax Hunters dive into this viral claim and uncover the truths behind it. They chat with Neovitus Sianga, who reveals that calcification takes time, not instant petrification. Learn about the vibrant flamingo population and the ecological threats the lake faces. Plus, there's a fun mystery sound game to enjoy! Tune in as they debunk myths and explore the wonders of this unique ecosystem.

Skunks are notorious for their stink, which actually serves as their superpower! Discover how skunk spray is made and its role in deterring predators. Learn from experts about the fascinating behavior and evolution of these critters. Get a fun recipe for a de-skunking potion, complete with a catchy mnemonic to help remember the ingredients. Plus, enjoy a mystery sound challenge and hear creative ideas from kids about animal defenses. It’s an engaging exploration of skunks that’s both informative and entertaining!

Join Joy and Elsa as they dive into the incredible history of the 'Fellow Lady Astronaut Trainees.' Discover how these pioneering women, like Jerry Cobb and Wally Funk, challenged gender norms by proving their astronaut potential through rigorous tests. Learn how their efforts faced political hurdles but ultimately paved the way for future female astronauts. The story unfolds in a playful setting, highlighting the significance of their legacy amid the competitive backdrop of the space race. Get ready for an inspiring journey into space history!

In this thrilling debate, Mark Sanchez, co-creator of Smash Boom Best, takes the wheeled world by storm, arguing for the awe-inspiring Monster Trucks. Meanwhile, his creative counterpart Sanden Totten champions the speedy charm of Hot Wheels, discussing their role in imaginative play. Young judge Archer provides insightful critiques and humor throughout. Topics include the origins and thrills of monster trucks and the eco-friendly, portable appeal of Hot Wheels. Who will reign supreme in this battle of wheels? Tune in to find out!

Exciting live shows are on the horizon, promising fun with singing, dancing, and science demonstrations. Discover the magic of Mystery Sounds, along with unique VIP experiences featuring games and photo ops. The crew is set to visit cities like Newark, San Diego, and Vancouver, with more locations possibly on the way. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that blends science and entertainment!

Join Dylan Thuras, co-founder of Atlas Obscura, as he delves into the transformative impact of metal wires on communication. Discover how the telegraph opened new channels for people to connect across vast distances. Dylan shares fascinating tales of early electric experiments, the challenges of laying the first transatlantic cable, and how this technology paved the way for modern communication. Plus, there’s a new Mystery Sound to solve and exciting news about the opening of Brains On Headquarters!

Join Dylan Thuras, co-founder of Atlas Obscura and co-author of a guide on historical inventions, as he unveils the fascinating world of metal. Discover how Japanese swords are meticulously forged and the ancient techniques using iron sand and charcoal. Learn about the game-changing invention of steel wire ropes that revolutionized mining safety. From swinging methods to mechanized wire production, Dylan paints a vivid picture of how mastery over metal has shaped industries and saved lives throughout history.