
Unbiased Science
Dr. Jessica Steier, a public-health expert, and Dr. Sarah Scheinman, a neurobiologist, are the hosts of Unbiased Science, a podcast devoted to objective, critical appraisal of available evidence on health-related topics relevant to listeners’ daily lives. Follow them on Instagram at www.instagram.com/unbiasedscipod
Latest episodes

12 snips
May 29, 2024 • 48min
To Immunity and Beyond! Don't Toy Around With Vaccines
Serese Marotta, Director of Advocacy and Education at Vaccinate Your Family, shares her profound journey shaped by the loss of her son to a vaccine-preventable illness. She highlights the alarming resurgence of measles, the urgent need for vaccine education, and the role of empathy in combating misinformation. The conversation delves into vaccination as a community effort and the importance of storytelling to foster trust in vaccines. With personal anecdotes, Marotta underscores the essential nature of immunizations and the responsibility we share in protecting public health.

May 22, 2024 • 41min
Here Comes The Sun(screen), Little Darling
Esther Olu, The Melanin Chemist, discusses skincare chemistry, melanin-friendly sunscreens, hyperpigmentation treatments, glycerin benefits, avoiding marketing hype, in-flight skincare routines, lack of inclusivity in shade ranges, and exciting skincare trends. The podcast also delves into preserving products without preservatives, makeup inclusivity, and advancements in skincare for melanin-rich skin.

11 snips
May 15, 2024 • 59min
Can't You Biopsy That Cancer Trends Are Complicated?
Dr. David Robert Grimes and Jess discuss cancer trends, debunking myths like sugar causing cancer, screening importance, modifiable risk factors, mRNA vaccine potential, and critical evaluation of cancer information.

18 snips
May 8, 2024 • 1h 9min
Turn The Beet Around: Course Correcting on Diet
Formerly known as the Paleo mom, Dr. Sarah Ballantyne clears up past misinformation about the AIP diet and discusses her new approach to nutrition. She talks about Nutrivore and the pitfalls of diet scoring systems, addressing audience reactions and criticism. This raw and honest conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in dietary updates.

13 snips
May 1, 2024 • 57min
From A to Zinc: The Chemistry of What We Consume
Dr. Joe Schwarcz, a renowned chemist, discusses superfoods, vitamins, and the myth of vitamin C curing colds. He talks about the exploitation of indigenous cures, the toxicity of benzene, and the importance of evidence-based medicine. A fascinating conversation on science and everyday life!

Apr 24, 2024 • 59min
Yuka App Yummy or Yucky? Let's Dish on Nutrition
In this episode, Jess is joined by Dr. Joey Munoz to discuss various topics related to nutrition, including the monetization of expertise, the role of supplements, and the marketing tactics used in the supplement industry. They emphasize the importance of evidence-based claims and the need for individualized approaches to supplementation. The conversation covers the importance of dose and type of supplements, the limitations of marketing claims, and the Yuka app's oversimplification of food ratings. The hosts discuss the need for nuance and context in nutrition, the role of overall dietary patterns, and the potential for food anxiety and disordered eating caused by black-and-white labeling. They emphasize the importance of individual goals and habits, rather than focusing on good and bad foods. You do not want to miss this!All our sources from this episode are available at: https://www.unbiasedscipod.com/episodes/yuka-app-yummy-or-yucky-lets-dish-on-nutrition(00:00) Intros(08:53) The Role and Considerations of Supplements(24:00) Sports Nutrition and Supplements(27:55) Glycine(35:27) The Importance of Dose and Type of Supplements(38:11) The Yuka App(41:51) The Need for Nuance and Context in Nutrition(53:13) Final Thoughts: Contradictions and Financial Incentives in the Nutrition SpaceInterested in advertising with us? Please reach out to advertising@airwavemedia.com, with “Unbiased Science” in the subject line.PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional.Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. The information provided herein do not represent the views of our employers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

8 snips
Apr 17, 2024 • 49min
Fall Of The House Of Misinformation: Science At Work
Dr. Matthew Facciani, a social scientist, discusses media literacy, misinformation, and polarization with Jess. They cover susceptibility to misinformation, motivations behind spreading false information, tips for spotting red flags, the role of AI in debunking misinformation, challenges in quantifying misinformation, and the impact of political ideology on belief in misinformation. They emphasize humility and collaboration in addressing misinformation.

Apr 10, 2024 • 50min
Mo' Science, Mo' Problems? (with Mo News!)
Emmy-winning Executive Producer and Journalist Mosheh Oinounou discusses the challenges of remaining unbiased in news reporting, understanding multiple perspectives, and the impact of chemicals in our food. They explore the need for a toolkit in science reporting, balancing accuracy with clickbait, and the influence of algorithms on information spread. The conversation also touches on nuanced communication in climate change reporting and the introduction of First Stop News for children and media literacy.

7 snips
Apr 3, 2024 • 39min
Are You What You Eat? Digging Into The Docuseries
Megan Featherston, a sports dietitian and wellness coach, dives into the Netflix docuseries about the benefits of vegan diets. The conversation centers on the Stanford Twin Study, revealing how dietary choices impact health markers like cholesterol. They debunk popular myths around veganism and discuss the balance between personal preferences and nutrition. Key insights include the complexity of dietary impacts on heart health and the importance of critical thinking in understanding health research. It’s a fascinating look at the intersection of diet, science, and personal wellness.

11 snips
Mar 27, 2024 • 46min
Are Microplastics a Macro Problem?
Toxicologists discuss the prevalence and sources of microplastics, addressing concerns about their impact on human health. They explore detection technologies and limitations, as well as mitigation measures to limit exposure. Topics include risks in water and food, bioaccumulation, and potential policies for mitigating microplastic risks.