Science Friday

In a lively discussion, linguist and TikTok creator Adam Aleksic, known as the 'Etymology Nerd', explores the fascinating world of algospeak and how social media redefines language. He breaks down terms like 'unalive' that dodge censorship while discussing the surge of slang driven by trending algorithms. Adam highlights how middle schoolers are the forefront of linguistic change and the evolving role of emojis as words. With insights from his book, he makes a case for algospeak as a vital cultural phenomenon worth studying.

In this conversation, Sean Carroll, a theoretical physicist and author, dives deep into the mysteries of our universe. He discusses black holes, revealing recent observational progress, including the Event Horizon Telescope. The nature of time is explored, along with the complexities of Schrödinger's Cat and quantum entanglement, which, surprisingly, can't transmit information faster than light. Carroll also sheds light on dark matter and the universe's expansion, leaving listeners pondering the biggest questions in modern physics.

In a captivating discussion, health psychologist Dr. Kari Leibowitz, author of 'How to Winter', shares her journey from a winter skeptic to an advocate for embracing the season. She reveals how Arctic cultures leverage their harsh climates to thrive, employing practices like saunas and cold plunges. Dr. Leibowitz emphasizes the power of small pleasures—like cozy rituals and playful outdoor activities with pets—to reframe winter positively. She also discusses strategies for cultivating a joyful mindset and rebranding winter through uplifting language.

In this engaging discussion, neurologist Bruce Dobkin, a professor at UCLA Health, shares his personal journey with musical hallucinosis following a cochlear implant. He vividly describes hearing a relentless choir singing the 'Star-Spangled Banner' and how it connects to Oliver Sacks’ observations. Dobkin explains the brain's tendency to impose musical structure on sounds, the surprising prevalence of this condition, and shares coping strategies. His insights into sensory processing and neuroplasticity make for a captivating exploration of how our brains perceive music.

Join paleozoologist Dr. Darren Naish and paleoecologist Dr. Emily Lindsey as they dive into the fascinating world of Ice Age megafauna. They discuss the challenges of recreating strange creatures using CGI, like koalas with lion bodies and 8-foot-tall sloths. Emily shares discoveries from the La Brea Tar Pits, revealing a lush ecosystem filled with giant mammals. The duo also explores the reasons behind the extinction of these colossal animals, touching on the roles of climate change and human impact.

Jackie Fortiér, a health policy reporter at KFF Health News, and Arthur Allen, a senior correspondent and vaccine expert, delve into the drastic vaccine policy shifts of 2025. They discuss the CDC's controversial decision to alter hepatitis B recommendations and the implications for newborns. Both guests highlight the confusion around COVID vaccine guidance, practical barriers in pediatric vaccination, and worrying drops in overall vaccination rates. Their insights paint a picture of a changing landscape in public health, driven by new skepticism.

Join Dr. Stefanie Milam from NASA, who studies comets as a project scientist for the James Webb Space Telescope, and Dr. Hakeem Oluseyi, an astrophysicist and CEO of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific. They discuss the excitement surrounding comet 3I/Atlas, a rare interstellar visitor. Topics include its chemical makeup, the challenges of observing it, and the diversity of planetary systems it represents. They also explore the impracticality of sending the ISS into deep space and why public interest in aliens isn't all it's cracked up to be.

Angela Oliverio, a microbiologist from Syracuse University, shares the thrilling discovery of Incendiamoeba cascadensis, a heat-tolerant amoeba thriving at a scorching 145°F. She explains its unique survival traits and implications for the search for extraterrestrial life. Meanwhile, Johanna Teske, a planetary scientist, delves into the lava planet TOI-561b, noting its unexpectedly low density and potential atmosphere as observed by the James Webb Space Telescope, and discusses the scientific significance of studying such extreme worlds.

James Vincent, a tech journalist known for his work with The Verge and The Guardian, dives into the world of humanoid robots. He discusses the hype surrounding viral robot videos and reveals the truth about teleoperation and selective editing. Vincent also explores why humanoids are gaining traction thanks to advances in AI and challenges with data transfer from language models. He contrasts industrial robots with the privacy concerns of home use, shares his awe from personal encounters with these machines, and quantifies the current gap between industrial arms and humanoid deployments.

Join Rosemary Mosco, an author and illustrator known for her bird-themed work, and Corina Newsome, a conservation scientist with a passion for bird behavior, as they explore the fascinating world of common birds. They discuss the surprising history of house sparrows introduced in the 1800s, investigate the clever mimicry of blue jays, and share delightful insights into titmouse vocalizations. Plus, learn about the majestic blackbird murmurations that defy superstitions and the heroic stories of wartime pigeons. Discover why ordinary birds deserve extraordinary appreciation!