On Today's Podcast
Terence Tao on how AI math solutions miss the point
Terence Tao says mathematics is about understanding, not just right answers, and quick AI solutions are forcing soul-searching in the field.
Listen NowOctober 23, 2026
CRISPR pioneer Jennifer Doudna discusses the evolution of gene-editing technology and what it takes to be a good scientist. Timekeepers around the world voted to stop using leap seconds, but what does that mean for us? Plus, how "problem bears" help test engineers evaluate consumer products, author Kazuo Ishiguro on emotional truth in our age of AI, and the science of apple varieties.
29:58
The Wild And Wonderful World Of Mammals
Author and paleontologist Steve Brusatte explains how mammals almost disappeared with the dinosaurs, but today reign supreme.
17:39
A Squid-tastic Night Out
Ira and undersea experts tackle audience questions at a Cephalopod Week celebration at Norwalk’s Maritime Aquarium.
How Mammals Came to Dominate The World
From reptile-like ancestors to humans, the new book The Rise and Reign of the Mammals tackles the diversity of mammals like us.
12:13
Americans’ Knowledge Of Reproductive Health Is Limited
As the nation awaits a momentous Supreme Court decision, a poll looks at opinions of and knowledge about reproductive health issues.
9:51
Some Doctors Want To Change How Race Is Used In Medicine
Race is often conflated with biology in medicine. A more nuanced approach is emerging: using culturally competent care in treatment.
7:32
How A $2 Billion U.S. Plan To Save Salmon In The Northwest Is Failing
Despite billions of federal subsidies, salmon survival is predicted to decline by 90% in the next four decades.
16:42
How A Facebook Group Helps People Identify Mysterious Mushrooms
Over 200 international mycologists and botanists volunteer their time to help identify poisonous plants and mushrooms in a Facebook group.
12:08
Are Invasive Jumping Worms Taking Over?
This destructive earthworm may not harm your garden, but scientists are worried about its impacts on ecosystems.
17:29
Plastic Surgery, Born In The Trenches
A new book explores the surprising roots of facial reconstruction surgery—the battlefields of World War I.
17:33
The Strange, Scrambled Genomes Of Squids And Octopuses
For Cephalopod Week, two researchers explain the newest science about the fancy tricks and ineffable weirdness of these animals.
World War I’s Operation Face Lift
Medical historian and author Lindsey Fitzharris explores the history of facial reconstruction surgery, starting with a ballerina’s rump.
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12:13
Scientists Found The Biggest Known Plant On Earth
Scientists discovered that a 49,000 acre seagrass meadow off the coast of Australia is actually one giant plant.
11:26
Building A Better Battery… Using Plastic?
A startup is trying to launch new battery technology that could help store renewable energy. But don’t expect one in your cell phone.
6:11
Bug Off: Why Mosquitoes Have An Annoyingly Amazing Sense Of Smell
When scientists tried to mess with mosquitoes’ sense of smell, these pesky insects found another way to sniff out their next meal.
12:48
So You Think You Know About Sex
A new book, “Been There, Done That: A Rousing History of Sex,” will make you question what you thought you knew about sex.
4:43
Processing Postpartum With AI And Synthetic Breast Milk Art
Using synthetic breast milk and a 3D-printed pig uterus, artist Ani Liu processes her postpartum period—and the people that helped her through it.
12:06
20,000 Viruses Under The Sea: Mapping The Ocean’s Viral Ecosystem
A motherlode of RNA viruses collected from the ocean contains thousands of new species and vast genetic diversity.
6:24
How Recreational Weed Transformed A Small California Town
Woodlake, CA has no stoplights, one fast-food restaurant, and seven cannabis businesses.
25:55
Meet The Doctor Trying To Bring Medical Marijuana Into The Mainstream
Dr. Kogan is trying to inform doctors about cannabis’ potential as a medical treatment for illnesses ranging from cancer to Alzheimer’s.