On Today's Podcast
‘Fire Amoeba’ Likes It Hot, And A Faraway Lava Planet
A newly identified amoeba can survive at the temperature of a medium-well steak. Plus, a distant lava planet shows signs of an atmosphere.
Listen NowDecember 12, 2025
Over the past century, most cancer research has focused on the tumor itself. Rakesh Jain focused on the tumor’s environment instead. Plus, a glacier’s edge can be a dangerous place to do research. One team is using robots and sound samples to monitor the melting ice. And, when cases of plague pop up in the US, it can feel straight up medieval. It’s treatable, but how and why does it persist?
Lithium May Have A Role In Causing—And Treating—Alzheimer’s
This important breakthrough and other research projects have lost funding because of Trump’s cuts to the NIH.
Why Self-Driving Cars Are The Perfect Heel In ‘The Naked Gun’
Car crashes aren’t very funny. Unless, apparently, it’s a self-driving car. Researchers on public perception of these new vehicles explain why.
A Nagasaki Survivor And Physician Recounts His Life’s Work
Dr. Masao Tomonaga was 2 years old when the US bombed Nagasaki. Eighty years later, he reflects on a lifetime of treating other survivors.
Breast Milk Is Understudied. What Are Scientists Learning Now?
There are a lot of claims about breast milk, but we know little about this sophisticated substance. Two researchers update us on the latest.
17:12
The Uncertain Science Behind What We Understand As ‘Truth’
In a new book, mathematician Adam Kucharski traces our relationship to truth, from the ancient Greeks to our AI reality.
12:07
Are Cold Plunges Actually Good For You?
A researcher who studies the effects of extreme cold on the body throws a few drops of icy water on the social media trend.
16:36
Why Is Working Out Good For Your Mental Health?
A workout can be a mental health boost—or a psychological strain. Two exercise researchers discuss what physical activity does to your mind.
17:04
65 Genomes Expand Our Picture Of Human Genetics
Researchers closely examined the genomes of 65 individuals to paint a more complex, and more complete, picture of human genetic diversity.
When ‘Proof’ Isn’t Enough
In 1990, Marilyn vos Savant riled up scores of mathematicians with her solution to the “Monty Hall Problem.” But she was right.
EPA Seeks To Revoke Scientific Basis For Greenhouse Gas Rules
The “endangerment finding” is the basis for regulations on emissions from cars, power plants, and more. Plus, a robot performs surgery.
17:26
A Reptile’s Baffling Backfin And The Math Of Dashing Dinos
Paleontologists identified a new ancient reptile appendage. And, how fast did dinosaurs run? A longstanding equation for dino speed may be wrong.
12:18
NASA Employees Protest Cuts In Formal Dissent Letter
Retired astronaut Cady Coleman explains why she felt compelled to sign “The Voyager Declaration.”
17:24
Where Are We On The Science Of Menopause?
Menopause research began in earnest about 30 years ago. Two experts want you to know that we’ve actually learned a lot—and it’s not all bad.
12:03
EPA To Shut Down Scientific Research Arm
The EPA’s Office of Research and Development studies things like PFAS, air pollution, and chemical safety to develop environmental standards.
16:41
Parker Solar Probe Captures Closest-Ever Images Of The Sun
The newly released images from a December flyby are so detailed that scientists can see explosions and the flow of solar winds.
Why Do Cyclists Shave Their Legs?
Does it make you faster—or just help you fit in? We asked four cycling experts what leg-shaving actually does for athletes.
What The Sigma Is Algospeak?
You might think sticking out your gyatt for the rizzler is chopped, but “Algospeak” author Adam Aleksic says we should let Gen Alpha cook.
17:30
How Agatha Christie Used Chemistry To Kill (In Books)
A new book explores the poisonous concoctions in Agatha Christie’s murder mysteries and the science behind how they kill.
17:30
Climate Change Is Upending The Home Insurance Market
Across the country, premiums are rising and insurers are pulling out of markets that are most at risk for climate change-fueled disasters.
12:29
How Millions Of Flies Can Help Stop The New World Screwworm
The New World Screwworm is creeping north, threatening cattle in Mexico and the US. Fighting flies with flies has worked before.