Dava Sobel, author of 'The Elements of Marie Curie,' delves into the remarkable legacy of the iconic scientist. She highlights how Curie shaped the careers of 45 women in her lab, breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. Sobel shares anecdotes that reveal Curie's nurturing mentorship amid societal challenges. She also discusses Curie's personal struggles, including her affair and media scrutiny, alongside her groundbreaking work in mobile x-ray units during WWI, emphasizing Curie's enduring impact on women in science.

Dr. Sing-Yi Feng, a pediatric emergency physician and medical toxicologist from the North Texas Poison Center, shares vital insights on keeping kids safe during the holiday season. She discusses common toxic exposures, emphasizing the risks of prescription medications, THC-infused edibles, and household cleaning supplies. The talk dispels myths about holiday plant toxicity, stressing that while some plants can irritate, they’re not usually dangerous. Dr. Feng also provides tips for childproofing homes and recognizing signs of poisoning.

Mahnaz Dar, the young readers’ editor at Kirkus Reviews, and Carrie Wolfson, a collection development librarian at the Boulder Public Library, dive into the world of children's science literature for 2024. They highlight captivating titles like 'The Observologist' and 'Oliver's Great Big Universe' that spark curiosity and creativity. The duo also addresses listener questions, recommending books that blend fun with learning across various themes, from nature to STEM, ensuring kids' imaginations soar. Perfect for gift-giving!

Rachel Feltman, host of Popular Science's "The Weirdest Thing I Learned This Week," dives into scorching topics like the Supreme Court's looming decision on FDA regulations for flavored vapes, which could reshape the landscape for youth nicotine addiction. She also sheds light on startling advancements in AI that predict lithium-ion battery explosions, addressing their potential dangers. Additionally, the conversation touches on impressive cervical cancer rate declines thanks to the HPV vaccine and surprising insights about Venus's ancient climate.

Mark Abrams, Editor of the Annals of Improbable Research and mastermind behind the Ig Nobel Prizes, shares the joy of celebrating quirky science. They discuss hilarious award winners, including studies on coin flipping and the movements of a dead trout. The theatrical highlights from the awards showcase the humorous side of research, from plants mimicking plastic to mammals breathing through their anus. Abrams emphasizes how laughter can enhance learning, making even the most bizarre studies captivating and entertaining.

Marty Beller, the drummer for They Might Be Giants, shares insights about their educational album 'Here Comes Science.' They discuss how music can simplify complex scientific concepts, making them fun and accessible. The conversation dives into their creative process behind catchy tunes like 'Meet the Elements' and a vibrant song about the sun. They also talk about their upcoming tour and exciting collaborations, all while emphasizing the importance of art in youth engagement and the joy of merging science with music.

Explore the dramatic aftermath of the asteroid impact that ended the age of dinosaurs. Discover how extreme conditions triggered rapid extinction for some species, while others adapted by retreating underwater or underground. Learn how certain bird species thrived in the post-impact world due to their plant-based diets. Witness the ecological shifts that allowed new habitats to emerge and various species, including mammals, to evolve, paving the way for the development of life as we know it today.

Carolyn Bertozzi, a 2022 Nobel Prize laureate in Chemistry and Stanford professor, dives into the revolutionary world of bioorthogonal chemistry. She unpacks how this technique allows targeted drug delivery in cancer treatment without harming healthy cells. Bertozzi shares insights on the significance of cellular sugars and their role in disease detection, recounting a breakthrough moment in visualization technology. The conversation also touches on click chemistry and the importance of diversity in scientific fields, driving a passion for inclusive chemistry education.

In a heartfelt discussion, Alan Alda, famed actor and science communicator, shares his journey living with Parkinson’s disease. He emphasizes the importance of hope and positivity, encouraging open conversations about the condition. Alda highlights how staying active—like playing tennis and boxing—can improve life quality. He also explores the balance between health management and identity, advocating for the power of personal stories in communication, which can foster connection and understanding in the face of adversity.

Dr. Rhett Spear, an assistant professor in plant sciences at the University of Idaho and potato expert, delves into the fascinating world of potatoes. He shares nutritional insights, debunking myths and highlighting the benefits of colorful varieties. The conversation shifts to the challenges of reproducing the textural marbling found in real meat for plant-based alternatives. Dr. Spear discusses innovative techniques like 3D printing that could enhance the sensory appeal of plant-based meats, aiming for a sustainable and delicious future.