Science Friday

Helen Lewis, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of 'The Genius Myth,' delves into the societal implications of the label 'genius.' She challenges traditional notions of genius tied to IQ and innovation, emphasizing the importance of personal narratives and collaborative efforts. The discussion also highlights the historical marginalization of women in science and critiques how accolades like the Nobel Prize can overshadow collective achievements. Ultimately, Lewis calls for a broader understanding of intelligence beyond mere numbers.

Join Umair Irfan, a senior correspondent at Vox, and Becky Ferreira, science reporter and author of 'First Contact,' as they dive deep into our age-old fascination with extraterrestrial life. They discuss how human perceptions of aliens have evolved over centuries, well before Hollywood's influence. Umair shares insights on recent scientific discoveries, including the rising threats of vector-borne illnesses and revolutionary findings in brain decision-making. Together, they explore the complexities of our search for life beyond Earth.

Join Sandra Knapp, a Merit Researcher at the Natural History Museum, and Aishwarya Veerabahu, a fungal ecologist and PhD candidate, as they explore fascinating intersections of science and nature. They discuss the invasive golden oyster mushroom's unexpected rise in U.S. forests and its impact on local ecosystems, emphasizing the threat to native fungal diversity. Sandra shares insights on the evolutionary journey of potatoes and tomatoes, revealing how ancient crossbreeding shaped these beloved staples we enjoy today.

Anand Varma, an award-winning science photographer and National Geographic Explorer, shares his journey of capturing nature's hidden details. He delves into the emotional struggles behind photographing elusive subjects, like hummingbird wings, revealing the determination required for artistic excellence. Varma discusses how macro photography unveils the beauty of small creatures and reframes our perception of wildlife. He also explores the intersection of art and science, showcasing how photography fosters a deeper appreciation for the often-overlooked elements of nature.

Pieter Cohen, an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard and head of the Supplement Research Program, teams up with Colleen Derkatch, a rhetoric professor and author of 'Why Wellness Sells.' They dive into the booming $64 billion dietary supplement industry, discussing its appeal and the regulatory pitfalls at play. The conversation reveals the myths around popular supplements like CoQ10, the dangers of mega dosing vitamins, and the urgent need for transparency in the industry. Get ready for an eye-opening exploration of wellness culture!

In a fascinating discussion, Dr. Nicholas Bellono, a molecular biologist from Harvard, dives into the remarkable sensory systems of octopuses. He reveals how these creatures use their suckers not just for grabbing, but for 'tasting' their environment, especially to detect harmful microbes on crab shells. This unique ability impacts their feeding and reproductive behaviors. The conversation also touches on the intriguing sensory structures in their arms and how these adaptations redefine our understanding of octopus intelligence and interaction with their surroundings.

Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, former director of the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, shares insights on the fallout from the abrupt dismissal of CDC director Susan Monarez. He discusses the leadership crisis at the agency and the ensuing resignations that underscore tensions between science and politics. The conversation highlights growing skepticism towards vaccine guidance and the implications for public health. Daskalakis emphasizes the urgent need to restore trust in science and the challenges posed by dehumanization of scientists.

Join astrochemist Stefanie Milam from NASA, a key player in the James Webb Space Telescope mission, and Dr. Jessica Barnes from the University of Arizona, an expert on asteroid origins, as they dive into the intriguing interstellar object 3I/ATLAS. They discuss its rare composition and what it can reveal about planetary systems. They also explore groundbreaking findings from asteroid Bennu, including stardust that pre-dates our solar system, offering amazing insights into cosmic history and the formation of celestial bodies.

In this enlightening discussion, Nusrat Jung, a civil and environmental engineer at Purdue University, unveils the surprising dangers of indoor air pollution from common hair care products. She reveals how styling products can emit harmful nanoparticles that jeopardize our health, especially during heat styling. Jung also shares practical tips for improving indoor air quality, emphasizing the need for better ventilation and awareness around everyday routines. Her insights encourage a rethink of our grooming habits for a healthier home environment.

Nathalie Vriend, an associate professor in mechanical engineering at the University of Colorado, studies the fascinating world of sand dunes. She shares how sand dunes transition between solid and fluid states, revealing their unique physical properties. The podcast also explores the enchanting phenomenon of singing sand dunes and the scientific principles behind their sounds. Additionally, Vriend addresses the challenges posed by mobile dunes to nearby communities and discusses innovative methods like satellite tracking used to study these dynamic geological structures.