

Tumble Science Podcast for Kids
Tumble Media
A Common Sense Selection! Exploring stories of science discovery. Tumble is a science podcast created to be enjoyed by the entire family. Hosted & produced by Lindsay Patterson (science journalist) & Marshall Escamilla (teacher). Visit www.tumblepodcast.com for educational content.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 25, 2025 • 29min
Tumble Mailbag: Four-Leaf Clovers, Brains, Fish & Infinity!
Do you know why four leaf clovers are so rare? Or if just one side of our brain can fall asleep? Why do fish have different colors, and how big is infinity? Lindsay & Marshall dig into the Tumble mailbag to answer listener questions with the help of Tumble’s science advisors, and respond to reviews! (Yes, we’ll talk about cats.)
We want to hear from you! Send us YOUR science questions, and let us know what you think of this mailbag episode! Here’s how to do it:
Email Lindsay & Marshall at tumblepodcast@gmail.com
Upload a voice recording on our website sciencepodcastforkids.com
Donate to Central Texas Flood Relief: bit.ly/tumbletexasfloods
Support Tumble on Patreon: patreon.com/tumblepodcast
Stream Science Songs Vol. 1 here!

Jul 11, 2025 • 41min
Summer Episode: Science Songs and Games!
In this lively chat, Erica Fink, the singer behind 'Sometimes But' from the band 'Eric and Erica', shares the excitement of their new album, Science Songs Vol. 1. The conversation is a delightful mix of catchy songs and fun games, exploring topics like the speed of capybaras and playful interactions with pets. Listeners are invited to engage in quizzes about fossils and planets, while also diving into the whimsical world of dinosaurs. Erica's infectious enthusiasm brings science to life through music, making learning an adventure!

Jun 27, 2025 • 19min
The Volcanic Eruption Adventure
Dive into the thrilling world of volcanology with tales from volcanologist Helena Buurman, who faced a looming eruption at Mount Redoubt. Discover the fascinating signs that precede eruptions, from seismic shakes to unusual smells. Explore the treacherous 'Ring of Fire' and learn how volcanologists monitor these natural giants. Hear about the daring missions to install sensors amidst the chaos of seismic activity, all while encouraging young inventors to create their own volcanoes! The excitement of science shines through!

Jun 6, 2025 • 20min
The Plastic Pollution Patrol
Dive into the world of nurdles—tiny, almost invisible plastic pellets spreading across our beaches! Follow environmental scientist Jace Tunnell on his mission to combat plastic pollution. Learn about grassroots initiatives like the Nurdle Patrol, where communities join forces to make a difference. Discover how kids can engage in this movement while also gaining valuable educational insights. Get inspired to turn awareness into action and help create a cleaner future for our planet!

May 23, 2025 • 25min
Did Dinosaurs Burp?
To support the Tumble Joke-ha-thon and win awesome prizes, go here!
“Did dinosaurs burp?” Tune into our Season 9 premiere to find out the answer to this stinky question. We’ll hear about dino gasses from returning guest Jessica Whiteside and their potential ecological impact from David Wilkinson. Our dive into dinosaur digestion will lead us to a smelly look at gas in Earth’s past!
Listen to our bonus interview episode with Dave to learn more about how he studies the past without a time machine. You can hear it when you support us for just $1 on Spotify or on Patreon on patreon.com/tumblepodcast.
Free resources, including a transcript, are available on the blog on our website, sciencepodcastforkids.com
Check out our new Tumble t-shirts and merch: https://tumblepodcast.dashery.com/

May 9, 2025 • 24min
Tumble Sonic Saturday May 10th! Featuring the Science of Ocean Sounds
Join oceanographer Amy Bower, a senior scientist at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, as she dives into the fascinating world of ocean sounds. Discover how she uses sound technology to study ocean currents and make marine science accessible for blind and visually impaired individuals. The podcast features an interactive sound scavenger hunt, innovative data sonification, and showcases unique methods for mapping ocean currents. Amy's insights reveal the mysteries of the underwater realm while making science engaging for everyone!

Apr 25, 2025 • 23min
Why Is It Calm in the Eye of a Hurricane?
Join meteorologist Shirley Murillo, a real-life hurricane hunter from NOAA, as she journeys into the eye of the storm. Discover why it’s eerily calm there while chaos reigns outside. Shirley shares thrilling tales from her flights into hurricanes, including invaluable lessons learned during Hurricane Katrina. With a fun analogy comparing hurricanes to a bundt cake, listeners will grasp the science of hurricane formation and the critical data collection that enhances storm safety. Buckle up for an exhilarating exploration!

Apr 11, 2025 • 23min
Was There Ever Nothing?
Jessica Esquivel, a particle physicist at Fermilab, dives into the extraordinary idea of 'nothing' and what existed before our universe. She reveals how quantum particles may have burst forth from this void, likening it to an electrifying dance party sparking the Big Bang. Esquivel also discusses particle detectors and their vital role in unveiling the universe's subatomic secrets. The conversation challenges listeners to rethink existence and embrace the failures inherent in scientific discovery.

Mar 28, 2025 • 22min
What If Trees Didn't Exist?
What if trees didn’t exist? This intriguing question sparks a journey into the vital roles trees play in our world. Explore how they produce oxygen, support wildlife, and maintain clean water. Learn about tree migration due to climate change and the shocking method scientists use to study them—shotguns! Dive into the impacts of deforestation and wildfires, and discover how trees adapt and thrive. Get ready for a leafy adventure filled with surprising facts and eco-friendly insights!

Mar 14, 2025 • 25min
How To Be An Inventor
In this discussion, inventor and scientist Josh Miele shares insights from his journey creating tactile maps for the blind. He reveals his five key steps to invention, emphasizing the importance of understanding user needs. The conversation dives into innovative solutions for accessibility, delving into how personal experiences shape inventive ideas. Listeners will also be amused to hear about the quirky topic of whether birds enjoy wearing denim. Join Josh as he navigates the fascinating world of invention and creativity!