Curiosity Weekly

Cells may be the building blocks of life (and highschool biology), but who knew they were so complicated? Dr. Samantha Yammine digs into different types of cells and their functions with editorial correspondent Teresa Carey as they discuss the difficulties in defining what a cell even is. Then, Sam speaks with Dr. Sébastien Calvignac-Spencer, a pathogen evolutionary biologist about his work investigating diseases from history. Finally, some curious researchers and entrepreneurs are cultivating actual salmon meat in bioreactors so Sam investigates the process behind growing fish in a lab including the potential ecological effects of cell-cultured salmon hitting the market.   Link to Show Notes HERE  Follow Curiosity Weekly on your favorite podcast app to get smarter with Dr. Samantha Yammine — for free! Still curious? Get science shows, nature documentaries, and more real-life entertainment on discovery+! Go to https://discoveryplus.com/curiosity to start your 7-day free trial. discovery+ is currently only available for US subscribers.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The new season of Naked and Afraid premieres Sunday, March 9, 2025 at 8pm EST on Discovery.   To celebrate, host Dr. Samantha Yammine talks to legendary survivalist Rob Nelson about his experiences thriving in some of the most extreme conditions on the planet. Rob also gets into some of the facts and myths behind common survival techniques. Then, Sam is joined by Naked and Afraid survivalist, Mandy Horvath. Mandy is the show’s first bi-lateral amputee contestant and she speaks on the physical, environmental, and emotional challenges of participating on the show. Sam also digs into the science behind what’s really going on with our bodies when trapped in the wilderness.   Link to Show Notes HERE  Follow Curiosity Weekly on your favorite podcast app to get smarter with Dr. Samantha Yammine — for free! Still curious? Get science shows, nature documentaries, and more real-life entertainment on discovery+! Go to https://discoveryplus.com/curiosity to start your 7-day free trial. discovery+ is currently only available for US subscribers.    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tiara Moore, a marine ecologist and founder of Black in Marine Science, dives into her inspiring advocacy for equitable systems in science. She discusses her groundbreaking research on biodiversity and the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems. The conversation highlights an innovative oil filter modeled after deep-sea sponges, aimed at addressing future oil spills. Tiara also shares her transformative experiences in Costa Rica and the importance of diversity in marine science, calling for collaboration and activism to empower underrepresented voices.

Dr. Jodi Halpern, a UC Berkeley professor and expert in AI ethics and bioethics, dives into the intriguing world of longevity tourism, exploring the lavish treatments aimed at extending life. She discusses the troubling mental health implications of rising AI technology, citing ethical dilemmas around privacy and emotional dependency. Additionally, Jodi sheds light on the alarming global mental health crisis, marked by increasing loneliness, while also addressing the controversial environmental impact of fracking on communities.

Dr. Lynn Rothschild is an astrobiologist who specializes in extremophiles—organisms thriving in extreme environments. She shares fascinating insights into how these resilient life forms can inform our search for extraterrestrial life. The discussion also includes the FDA's recent ban on Red Dye 3 due to cancer risks and the contrasting regulatory standards in the U.S. and Canada. Additionally, the episode explores the science behind feeling 'butterflies in your stomach' during moments of infatuation, connecting it to our body's stress response.

Dr. Janet Hoy-Gerlach, a licensed clinical social worker and director of veterinary social work, discusses her research on the mental health benefits of emotional support animals. She highlights the intriguing trend of dogs using soundboard buttons to communicate. The conversation also sheds light on the profound bond between humans and animals, particularly in mental health crises. Additionally, they explore the incredible capabilities of sniffer dogs, including their role in disease detection and search and rescue efforts.

Dr. Linda Charmaraman, founder of the Youth Media & Wellbeing Research Lab, examines the impact of social media on mental health and misinformation. She reveals that a staggering 92% of TikTok videos related to ADHD diagnoses are inaccurate, stressing the need for professional guidance. The discussion also highlights innovative tech for wildfire detection, utilizing AI to combat climate-related risks. Lastly, the abilities of individuals learning echolocation demonstrate incredible brain adaptability, showcasing the fascinating intersection of perception and technology.

In this discussion, Robert Lillis, a planetary scientist and head of NASA's ESCAPADE mission, shares his insights on Mars' atmosphere evolution. He explains how Mars transformed from a water-rich planet to its current desert-like state and the innovative ESCAPADE mission that will study atmospheric loss. Additionally, he introduces exciting advancements in electro-agriculture that could revolutionize food production using renewable energy. Lillis also touches on pioneering stem cell therapies aimed at restoring vision, highlighting the intersection of science and real-world applications.

Dr. Anastasia Buyalskaya, a behavioral scientist specializing in habit formation, challenges the popular 21-day myth, revealing that habit development is much more complex and variable. She discusses the role of contextual cues and flexibility in creating lasting habits. The conversation also explores a fascinating link between left-handed musicians and unique brain pathways activated through musical training. Plus, they delve into cosmic concerns with bacteria aboard the International Space Station adapting and potentially threatening human health.

Dive into the latest breakthroughs across a spectrum of scientific fields! Discover fascinating insights from neuroscience to climate tech, all explained in an accessible way. The host interviews experts while unraveling the research behind the most exciting advancements. Whether you’re curious about genetics or AI, there's something here for everyone to enjoy and learn!