
Tumble Science Podcast for Kids
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.
Latest episodes

Dec 8, 2023 • 22min
Do Aliens Exist? [ENCORE]
Exploring the likelihood of intelligent alien life, discussing extraterrestrial civilizations, the Drake Equation, and how scientists might detect aliens. Also, the importance of considering alien ecosystems and the evolution of communication and technology for contacting aliens.

Nov 22, 2023 • 22min
How Do Toilets Work? [ENCORE]
Learn about the invention of toilets, the history of waste management, and the future of sanitation. Find out how toilets save lives and the potential of waste treatment to generate energy. Plus, listen for exciting birthday shoutouts and learn how to support the podcast on Patreon.

Nov 10, 2023 • 22min
What If There Were No Animals?
Rae Wynn Grant, ecologist and bear cub cuddler, discusses what a world without animals would be like. She explores the impact of animals on ecosystems and the consequences of human activities on animal habitats, focusing on birds. The significance of endangered species and the success of conservation efforts are also highlighted. The episode emphasizes the importance of preserving animal life and taking action to protect endangered species.

Oct 27, 2023 • 23min
The Mind Control Cat Parasite
A horror movie about a mind-controlling cat parasite is discussed, focusing on how it manipulates mice to lose their fear of cats. The correlation vs causation debate is explored, along with the life cycle of the parasite and potential treatments. The episode also delves into parasites' survival strategies and encourages listeners to create Scary Science movie trailers.

Oct 13, 2023 • 28min
How Do We Read?
How does reading work in the brain? It’s a question that has fascinated scientists for years. Could braille - the system of raised dots that blind and low vision people use to read - be the key to understanding how it works? We talk to writer Andrew Leland (“The Country of the Blind”) and neuroscientist Simon Fischer-Baum to learn about the invention of braille, and how it could be the key to learning how reading works - for everyone. And we might just solve a bedtime reading mystery along the way.
Learn more about braille on the bonus interview episode on our Patreon, at patreon.com/tumblepodcast.
We have more free resources about braille and the science of reading available on the blog on our website, sciencepodcastforkids.com
This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant Number # 2148711 - Engaging Blind, Visually Impaired, and Sighted Students in STEM with Storytelling through Podcasts.

Sep 29, 2023 • 24min
The Science of Fungi
Curator Lee Davies from the Fungarium discusses fascinating fungi facts with lots of puns. They explore how fungi breathe, the importance of fungi in ecosystems, discovering new species, and the creepy world of zombie fungi. Dive into the safety tips for fungi collection and get engaged in the world of mushrooms!

Sep 15, 2023 • 22min
Did Dinosaurs Burp?
"Did Dinosaurs Burp?" brings back Jessica Whiteside, an expert on dino gasses, and introduces David Wilkinson who explores the ecological impact. They discuss the digestive processes of dinosaurs, including stone-swallowing and food-chewing. They reveal the connection between dinosaur farts and the Earth's warm climate. Dave Wilkinson shares his study on animal emissions, discussing methane gas released by cows and potentially sauropod farts affecting climate change. The podcast highlights the effects of warm earth conditions on plant growth and emphasizes addressing global warming.

Sep 12, 2023 • 2min
Coming September 15th - Tumble Season 9!
A new season of Tumble is coming soon! Have you ever wondered whether dinosaurs burped? Or where the largest fungus collection in the world is? Or how braille was invented? Learn that and more in the newest season of Tumble!
Also, if you love our show, make sure to tell three people you know about how awesome you think it is. It really helps us out!

Sep 1, 2023 • 55min
The Great Cave Road Trip
Embark on a cave-themed road trip with episodes on bats, archaeology, and Neanderthal tools. Explore Bracken Cave's mesmerizing bat colony, discover the challenges of excavating hard cave floors, and learn about the striking similarities between Neanderthals and humans.

Aug 18, 2023 • 32min
Tumble Presents Girl Tales
A podcast called Girl Tales reimagines classic stories with a twist, empowering girls to be the heroes. In this episode, Meema tells a never-ending story about Narcissus and magic mirrors. The podcast explores a realm of possibilities and introduces Memory, the youngest muse. It also discusses a company called The If, challenges faced by its CEO, and a confrontation between Memory and Mima. The episode concludes with the closure of the idea factory and birthday shout outs to Patreon supporters.