

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

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!

11 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 25min
Why Do Animals Play?
Why do some animals engage in play while others do not? Discover the surprising science behind playful behaviors in species like dogs, bonobos, and even Komodo dragons. Experts share why play is crucial for social skills and development, especially in young rats. The podcast invites listeners to ponder how we can study animal play behavior and even encourages family involvement in scientific exploration. This blend of fun and education ensures that play is recognized as serious science!

Feb 14, 2025 • 23min
Why are Capybaras So Big?
Discover the fascinating world of capybaras, the largest rodents known for their friendly nature and intriguing size. Experts delve into why these gentle giants have such big teeth and their unique adaptations in the ecosystem. Explore the adventurous side of capturing capybara DNA, from cowboy lassoing to zoo methods. The discussion highlights intrigue around genetic mutations that contribute to their impressive size, sparking curiosity about evolution and encouraging young minds to ponder their own animal ideas.


