On Today's Podcast
Into The Woods, From Chestnut Genetics To Tiny Forests
Genetic research could speed the restoration of the American chestnut tree. Plus, "rewilding" small spaces with fast-growing miniforests.
Listen NowFebruary 27, 2026
A new simulation shows large amounts of hydrogen in our planet’s core. Scientists report on what they found in 290-million-year-old vomit. Plus, a comedic play and a 20-year neurology study explore what we can do to prevent dementia and cognitive decline. And, a federal law aims to close the legal loophole that lets stores sell THC products from hemp.
15:02
Would More Technology Mean Safer Trains?
Seventy thousand miles of track will need to be outfitted with “positive train control” technology by 2015.
14:32
Speech Science: Tongue Twisters and Valley Girls
Unraveling the speech patterns behind tongue twisters and Valley girls. . .and boys.
17:06
Dissecting America’s $3 Trillion Medical Bill
Steven Brill discusses “Bitter Pill,” his investigation of skyrocketing healthcare costs.
Backstage at ‘The Big Bang Theory’
Being on set at the popular show left me starstruck.
Airplane of the Future?
This plane looks blue under ultraviolet light, but it’s designed to be green.
10 Questions for Mark Mello, Moth Man
The zoologist attributes his affinity for nature to a childhood of tromping outdoors.
The Choreographic World of Elizabeth Streb
Ira’s conversation with Action Architect Elizabeth Streb continues.
48:03
Annual Prizes Honor the Stranger Side of Science
The IgNobel Prizes salute unusual research, such as an investigation of dung beetle navigation.
22:47
Eating ‘Wilder’ Foods for a Healthier Diet
Author Jo Robinson digs up tips on how to get the most nutrition out of our fruits and vegetables.
23:29
At STREB Action Lab, Dance and Physics Collide
Choreographer and gravity-junkie Elizabeth Streb pushes the boundaries of physics—with dance.
A Monarch Retreat
For Californians, Thanksgiving is prime time for butterfly counting.
All About Apples: Some History, a Recipe, and Recommendations
An excerpt from “Eating on the Wild Side,” complete with apple crisp recipe.
Mapping Microbes in California Wine Country
Wine grapes have distinctive microbial patterns based on growing conditions, environmental features, and the fruit itself.
22:17
Using Modern Ballistics to Crack ‘Cold Case JFK’
Fifty years later, forensic scientists apply modern tech to the JFK assassination.
19:46
How To Avoid ‘Food Failures’ This Thanksgiving
Jeff Potter, author of “Cooking for Geeks,” dishes up a few cooking hacks for Turkey Day.
4:15
When Water Flows Uphill
Researchers test ridged surfaces in order to control the movements of hot water.
12:09
ISON: The Comet of the Century . . . or Is It?
As Comet ISON skirts the sun, it could be destroyed—or emerge, even more spectacular than before.
7:55
Stores May Be Snooping Into Your Smartphone
Stores can tap into your smartphone’s Wifi signal to track your in-store movements.
9:43
A Handful of Nuts, a Lifetime of Benefits?
Researchers linked daily nut consumption to a lower risk of dying from major chronic diseases.
16:31
Budget Cuts Leave Curiosity and Cassini in Limbo
Under NASA’s proposed 2013 budget, planetary science would receive $1.217 billion.