On Today's Podcast
Should Ultraprocessed Foods Be Off The Menu?
New USDA dietary guidelines tell us to “eat real food.” Should policymakers get highly processed foods out of our stores and school lunches?
Listen NowJanuary 30, 2026
A flu variant called subclade K emerged too late to be fully covered by this year’s vaccine. But the flu shot can still help protect you. Plus, a new study suggests dogs began to diversify about 11,000 years earlier than we thought. And, in turbulent times, it helps to hear stories of resilience. What can we learn from 3.5 billion-year-old bacteria that eat light?
34:43
Making The Outdoors Great For Everyone
How racism pervades public places meant for everyone.
16:49
Naked Mole Rats May Unlock Secrets About The Human Brain
Naked mole rats are unique in the mammal world. But their brains may have valuable clues for our own.
29:08
The Best Summer Science Books Of 2020
Our summer science book list will take you swimming with eels and unlock the mysteries of bird behaviors.
Introducing: Science Friday Summer Institute
From August 3-6, join Science Friday Education, STEM researchers, and STEM educators from around the country for a virtual conference and co-creation institute.
11:42
The First Wave Of COVID-19 Is Still Surging
States reckon with reopening as case numbers climb, plus a new signal in a Italian dark matter detector.
11:29
Why Are Honey Bee Colonies Collapsing?
Researchers are trying to figure out why bee colonies across the country are collapsing.
17:28
How To Approach The Risks Of Socializing During A Pandemic
States are opening up. Should you expand your social life? How to assess and manage your risk during the pandemic summer.
16:02
The Man Who Couldn’t See Numbers
A rare disease sheds light on how the human brain processes visual information.
33:56
COVID-19 Is Taking A Toll On Young People’s Mental Health Too
Uncertainty is hard for everyone. Here’s how caretakers can support kids and teens during social distancing.
12:12
PG&E Guilty Plea Sets A Precedent For Climate Change Culpability
Plus, why we shouldn’t count on lockdowns to work again.
17:05
Insights From International Doctors On The Frontlines Of The Pandemic
Two international resident physicians in the Bronx share their experiences treating COVID-19 patients.
24:24
Protests Shine Light On Facial Recognition Tech Problems
As big tech steps back from facial recognition for police, some AI experts want an end to its use entirely. Here’s why they say reform isn’t enough.
9:35
A NASA Rover Is Catching A Private Ride To The Moon
The rover is designed to explore for the large stores of ice scientists suspect may be frozen in lunar polar regions.
17:21
A Crisis Of Health In Healthcare Workers
The global pandemic and national protests are adding to the mental and emotional burden of taking care of others.
Seeking Algorithmic Justice In Policing AI
AI researchers and advocates discuss abolishing facial recognition tech—and why gradual reforms aren’t enough.
Cephalopod Week Postponed
Science Friday will still celebrate Cephalopod Week later this year, but we’ve decided that now is not the time.
Anthony Fauci Gives Advice On How To Reopen The United States
From second waves to vaccines, “America’s doctor” gives advice on how the country should reopen after COVID-19.
12:06
Calling Out Racism In The Scientific Community
Plus, some companies are stepping back from facial recognition tech.
22:57
The Police’s Impact On Public Health
Researchers are investigating the physical and mental health impacts of stop-question-and-frisk policing.