
Brains On! Science podcast for kids
Brains On!® is a science podcast for curious kids and adults from American Public Media. Each week, a different kid co-host joins Molly Bloom to find answers to fascinating questions about the world sent in by listeners. Like, do dogs know they’re dogs? Or, why do feet stink? Plus, we have mystery sounds for you to guess, songs for you to dance to, and lots of facts -- all checked by experts.
Latest episodes

6 snips
Dec 31, 2024 • 33min
Whirr. Zoom! Plink plink. It’s a Mystery Sound extravaganza
Shelley Roden, an award-winning Foley artist at Skywalker Sound known for her work in films like Guardians of the Galaxy, shares her insights into the art of sound effects. The hosts delve into the creative techniques used in Foley, showcasing how everyday objects can produce incredible sounds. They engage listeners with a fun mystery sound guessing game, and personal anecdotes make the experience delightful. It's a vibrant exploration of sound, creativity, and the magic behind the audio in movies, encouraging young listeners to engage their own imaginations.

7 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 29min
Is it true? Vikings, dogs, and twins edition
Jess Miller, a twin expert and intern on the show, brings her insights into the fascinating world of twins. The discussion explores whether twins can really feel each other's pain, revealing the truth behind this myth. They also dive into the popular misconception about Vikings wearing horned helmets, uncovering the historical reality. Lastly, the podcast investigates dogs' color vision, discovering that they see shades of blue and yellow. It's a playful mix of myth-busting and scientific exploration!

21 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 34min
Are whales communicating with their clicks and songs?
Tyler, a curious co-host, and Shane Gero, a biologist specializing in sperm whale communication, explore the mesmerizing world of whale sounds. They dive into the differences between baleen whales’ songs and toothed whales' clicks, shedding light on how these vocalizations serve as vital communication tools. Shane explains the complexity of sperm whale sounds, revealing that researchers are just scratching the surface of understanding these intricate messages. The discussion combines education and humor, making whale communication accessible and engaging.

Dec 6, 2024 • 1min
Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Bones On Mystery Sounds!
Join Mr. Bone Jangles as he sneaks into the studio for a late-night surprise! Instead of his new show, he faces a fun challenge guessing mystery sounds. The hosts dive into engaging games and the Smarty Pass, promising exclusive content for young listeners. It's an entertaining mix of playful banter and intriguing sound mysteries that keeps everyone guessing!

Nov 26, 2024 • 2min
We're back December 17!
Get ready for a thrilling return packed with mystery sounds and intriguing questions! The team dives into everything from the melodies of whale songs to the mysteries of Viking helmets. With a new season on the horizon, there's plenty of excitement to explore. Tune in for informative adventures that spark curiosity and fun!

Nov 11, 2024 • 1min
Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Mystery Animal Poetry Slam
Molly has caught poetry fever and is ready to share her rhymes! Join the fun as she challenges Marc and Sanden to guess the animals in her quirky poems. It's a hilarious clash of creativity and competition in the Mystery Animal Poetry Slam! Plus, discover a new subscription service for more exclusive content and ad-free listening adventures!

6 snips
Oct 21, 2024 • 8min
Smarty Pass Presents: Noun Noun
Ruby Guthrie, the producer of an engaging science podcast for kids, dives into the whimsical world of collective nouns. Join her and fellow producer Sanden Totten as they explore the joy of collecting unique terms and engage in a fun guessing game. They share hilarious animal group names and brainstorm creative alternatives with playful references to pop culture. It's a delightful mix of humor and learning, showcasing the captivating power of language and the fun of teamwork in the creative process.

6 snips
Oct 15, 2024 • 27min
The real vampires of the animal world
Dr. May Dixon, a vampire bat researcher from The Ohio State University, takes listeners on a fantastic journey into the world of bloodsuckers. She dispels myths about vampire bats and reveals their surprising social behaviors. The playful banter between a vampire squid and bat adds a whimsical touch, while listeners learn about the fascinating feeding habits of these creatures. The discussion blends humor with facts, encouraging young minds to appreciate the wonders of nature, from mosquitos to musical mystery sounds!

Oct 15, 2024 • 2min
Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Game Show Molly
Get ready for a sparkling adventure with Game Show Molly! The show features an exciting new rhyming game that keeps listeners on their toes. Tune in for a fun segment called 'Feast or Flee,' where creativity takes center stage. Plus, discover how the Smarty Pass enhances the experience with ad-free episodes and interactive games. This is a delightful mix of education and entertainment!

11 snips
Oct 8, 2024 • 27min
Achoo! How fast does a sneeze travel?
Sneezes are unique, much like snowflakes! Ever wondered how fast they travel? Spoiler: over 40 mph! Join the fun as the hosts unravel the science of sneezing while exploring the world of snot and boogers. Meet a daring booger trying to break the sneeze speed record and hear insights from a self-described 'professional snot sucker.' Discover how nasal mucus protects our health and share your own sneeze sounds! It's an entertaining whirlwind of facts, humor, and interactive challenges.