
Dr Karl Podcast
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!
Latest episodes

Nov 14, 2024 • 41min
UV ratings, anxious sweats and morning people
Explore the quirky physics of how dogs shake off water and its links to skin sensitivity. Discover the unsolved mysteries behind anxiety-induced sweating and the surprising science of flatulence smells in the shower. Tune into the unique relationship between music and plant growth, including a plant serenaded by an orchestra. Delve into the challenges of UV radiation and personal sunburn tales, alongside the secrets of snakes staying clean in dirty environments. Engaging listener questions and humor make for a delightful scientific journey.

Nov 7, 2024 • 36min
Terraforming Mars, intergalactic travel and the Perseverance Rover
What impact would living on Mars have on our bodies? Could we ever have 'Earth' on our identification? And how are the astronauts stuck on the International Space Station going?Dr Karl and special guest Dr Adrian Brown answer these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith.

8 snips
Oct 31, 2024 • 42min
String theory, Benford's Law and the discovery of Pi
Matt Parker, a mathematician and engaging YouTuber known for his bestselling book "Love Triangle," dives into captivating discussions on whether math is invented or discovered. He explores the intriguing Benford's Law and its role in spotting tax fraud. The chat also unpacks string theory with squid analogies and the impact of microplastics, highlighting innovative mathematical solutions. Finally, Parker delves into the significance of Pi and how time dilation reveals cosmic mysteries, blending humor and deep insights into the mathematical universe.

Oct 24, 2024 • 41min
Breath work, species adaptations and peak solar energy
How realistic are shark attacks in movies? Why are there no monkeys in Australia? And how important are breathing exercises? Science communicators Zoe Kean and Ruben Meerman answer these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith.

Oct 17, 2024 • 42min
Shark repellants, going grey and the sixth sense
Zoe Kean, a Tasmanian science communicator and author, teams up with Ruben Meerman, the 'surfing scientist' known for his physics expertise, to explore fascinating scientific concepts. They discuss the effectiveness of shark repellents for surfers and whether humans might evolve cancer immunity. The duo also dives into the intriguing nature of shadows and the reasons for premature greying, incorporating engaging personal stories and insights on wildlife. A lively conversation that balances humor with thought-provoking science!

Oct 10, 2024 • 40min
Hurricane Milton, the shadow biosphere and preventing CTE
Why do some people have a higher caffeine tolerance? How common is shingles in people under the age of 30? And why don’t any mammals have green fur? Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Jordan Barr.

Oct 3, 2024 • 42min
Moo Deng, koala contraception and de-extinction efforts
Do animals get jet lag? How do snakes dig holes if they have no arms? And what impact would the reintroduction of extinct animals have on existing species? Dr Karl and special guest Dr Marissa Parrott answer these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith.

Sep 26, 2024 • 40min
Latchkey incontinence, sleep cycles and targeted pain relief
Why do I need to pee every time I get to my front door? How long could you survive in a car with just air conditioning? And does your sleep schedule matter as long as it's eight hours?Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith.

Sep 19, 2024 • 41min
Chemo curls, tinnitus and Bluetooth explained
Are electric vehicles still better for the environment if you charge them with a non-renewable energy source? What happens if you hold your urine for too long? And can you get the physical symptoms of anxiety without feeling anxious? Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith.

Sep 12, 2024 • 39min
Nocturnal teens, space hygiene and Chernobyl fungus
How much air pollution do space launches cause? Why don’t babies get bad breath in the morning? And is it true your immune system doesn’t know you have eyes? Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith.