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Dr Karl Podcast

Latest episodes

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Jun 12, 2025 • 39min

Aphantasia, smelling to survive and bionic vision

Why is it colder the closer we get to the Sun? Are stiff drinks or soft drinks better for fighting sickness? And can we recreate the human brain?Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith. 
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Jun 5, 2025 • 43min

Plastic sweat, alien life and how to be a morning person

Discover how cockatoos master urban challenges like figuring out water bubblers! Delve into the science behind laughter's physical effects and explore the allure of having an exoskeleton. The conversation also tackles the mysteries of alien life and the intriguing concept of 'revenge sleep.' Learn how dietary choices influence taste perception, and why some experience nasal dripping while hiking. Engage with fascinating insights that blend humor, science, and audience curiosity.
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May 29, 2025 • 41min

Colder temperatures, dog lookalikes and colour perception 

How scientifically accurate is Bee Movie? What would happen if the Earth had a twin? And what is Dr. Karl's favourite story?Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith. 
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May 22, 2025 • 39min

Slow-mo animals, breathing powers and the science of cat scratches

Can we sniff our farts away? Are birthday twins just a coincidence? And why do menstrual cramps hurt more than stomach aches?Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Bec Charlwood. 
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4 snips
May 15, 2025 • 39min

The origins of BBQ, fecal bacteria and the Seven Sisters

Zoe Kean, a science communicator and evolutionary expert, dives into fascinating topics with Dr. Karl. They discuss how living together can make us resemble our roommates, linking it to environmental factors and deep bonds. The conversation highlights the origins of cooking and its impact on human evolution. Zoe also sheds light on the significance of ancient fossils like Lucy, revealing new insights into our evolutionary journey. Plus, they tackle the intricacies of hygiene in everyday life and the science behind sound perception.
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May 8, 2025 • 39min

Smoke alarms, airplane mode and chemtrails 

Does blending ingredients in a smoothie destroy their nutrients? How do we distinguish between phantom smells and real smells? And are infrared saunas safe?Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith.
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May 1, 2025 • 44min

Meat glue, cold remedies and roadkill 

What influences intelligence? Does the earth's rotation affect flight time? And what temperature will de-fog your windscreen?Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith.
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Apr 24, 2025 • 39min

Rollercoaster retirement, winking, and zombie stars

Why am I always running out of conditioner before shampoo? How come mozzies bite some people and not others? And does a dog's sense of smell give it a better memory?Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Jaimee Taylor-Nielsen.
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Apr 17, 2025 • 38min

Alien planets, sea sickness 101 and the perfect chocolate

Is it possible to breathe through our ears? Why do we always queue in a snake form? And what's hiding in the rest of the ocean?    Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Jaimee Taylor-Nielsen 
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Apr 10, 2025 • 40min

Jet lag, dire wolves and scented farts

What if the Moon was larger than Earth? Explore the intriguing impact of jet lag on our bodies and ways to ease its effects. Discover the fascinating relationship between bees and timber while diving into the science of scents and memories. Learn the secrets behind making sandpaper and the mysteries of glue drying in space. Plus, ponder the possibilities of resurrecting extinct species like dire wolves. Packed with humor and scientific insights, this discussion is a delightful blend of curiosity and knowledge.

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