

Dr Karl Podcast
triple j
Join Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, Lucy Smith and their scientific guests, with a bunch of curious triple j listeners for a weekly injection of science, myth-bashing and answers!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 25, 2025 • 29min
Bionic eyes, poop schedules and aphantasia
Does Halsey understand DNA properly? How long should we cryogenically freeze ourselves for? And can we learn how to remember everything?Join Lucy, Dr Karl and special guests for a look back on some of our favourite questions from this year all about the human body!

Dec 18, 2025 • 27min
The age of space, explosive planets and black hole portals
Explore the mysteries of space with fascinating questions! Discover how black holes might challenge our understanding of information. Learn what would happen if everyone jumped at once, and why it wouldn't affect Earth's rotation. Find out how music sounds on different planets and why Jupiter won't explode from rocket flames. Dive into the theories of our universe possibly existing within a black hole and the odds of intelligent life beyond Earth. Join in on this cosmic adventure for all space enthusiasts!

Dec 11, 2025 • 40min
Disappearing poos, capsaicin receptors and cane toads
What muscles are required for a yawn? How does jewellery affect our skin? And what's the connection between atoms and physical pain?Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith.

Dec 4, 2025 • 38min
The speed of darkness, sticky spider webs and drinking snow
How far into space could we hear the Js? What actually causes 'the runs'? And is drinking snow hydrating?Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith.

Nov 27, 2025 • 38min
Hair loss, bone density and body glitter vs. sunscreen
Can you taste with just a sense of smell? Is it possible for your immune system to reset? And what causes period shits?Dr Karl and Dr Theresa Larkin answer these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith.

Nov 20, 2025 • 40min
Hair of the dog, photographic memories and shingles
Where does all our energy go when we die? Why do humans laugh? And is rain water or tap water better for plant growth?Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith.

Nov 13, 2025 • 38min
Frozen vs fresh veggies, soap suds and nangs
Ever pondered if an invisible person would be blind? Dr Karl dives into the science of light scattering! Learn why ice cubes can develop surprising spikes and how frozen vegetables can often be just as nutritious as fresh ones. Discover the mysteries of pain tolerance, bees making honey, and the effects of nitrous oxide on vitamin B12. Plus, Dr Karl debunks fears about un-rinsed dish soap. Wrap it all up with tips on staying cool in extreme heat!

Nov 6, 2025 • 39min
Frisson, cryogenic freezing and thylacines
Zoe Keane, an evolution expert and science communicator from Tasmania, dives into fascinating topics. She explains why Neil the Seal has wandered into Hobart and how thylacines resemble dogs due to convergent evolution. Discover how sniffing a fart works (or doesn’t) and the science behind music giving us goosebumps, known as frisson. Zoe also discusses the potential of sniffer dogs in detecting disease, the possibilities of cryogenic freezing, and even why moist hay bales can catch fire. It's a captivating blend of ecology, evolution, and quirky science!

Oct 30, 2025 • 42min
Pollen peaks, jump scares and alcohol vs mood
Discover if giant ants could rule the world or if four-leaf clovers really hold any luck. Explore why hay fever worsens at certain times of day and the fascinating effects of alcohol on mood. Learn about the intriguing science behind jump scares and their surprising link to metallic tastes. Unravel the concept of albedo and its impact on climate change, and ponder if human bodies contribute to global warming. Join an entertaining dive into these captivating questions and more!

Oct 23, 2025 • 38min
Butt breathing, plovers and flammable water
How will the universe end? What makes weight lighter in the pool? And with enough helium, could we float?Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith.


