On Today's Podcast
A Look Back At 2025 In Science, From Federal Cuts To Space Junk
There was major science news in 2025. Plus, underreported developments in geoengineering and a triumph for furniture rearrangement.
Listen NowDecember 26, 2025
Physicist Sean Carroll takes on black holes, Schrödinger’s cat, and other big physics concepts. Plus, we revisit some of our top stories of 2025, covering research into how death metal singers safely produce extreme vocalizations, how algorithms and social media are changing language, and what we can learn from people thriving in the coldest parts of the world.
24:25
From Splenda to Aspartame: Are the Artificial Sweeteners We Use Hurting Us?
The science behind the WHO’s declaration of aspartame as a “possible carcinogen,” and the effects of artificial sweeteners on human health.
Evolution: The Roots Of Our ‘Tree Of Life’
Author Prosanta Chakrabarty leads us through the basics of evolutionary change, and explains how evolution doesn’t mean “perfection.”
11:45
No, The Gulf Stream Is Not Collapsing
A separate set of currents, called the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC), is weakening.
12:52
The Kākāpō Parrot Returns To New Zealand
The critically endangered kākāpō haven’t lived on the mainland for nearly 40 years—until now.
4:14
Far Beyond Their Native Habitat, Parrots Rule The Roost
Brooklyn’s parrots are just one example of how the ingenious bird has learned to thrive in strange places.
12:03
What Is Your Cat’s Meow Trying To Tell You?
A biologist’s new book explores the evolution of our bond with our favorite four-legged felines.
5:23
Researchers Quantify The Navajo Nation’s Water Crisis
Two researchers are conducting a household water study to illuminate how many people lack access to clean water on the reservation.
11:56
Chumash Tribe Champions National Marine Sanctuary
After decades of advocacy, a 7,000 square mile area off the central coast of California may soon be protected.
8:17
Where The Rubber Meets The Road For Electric Cars
Compared to traditional combustion vehicles, some EV owners report their tires wearing quickly.
8:52
Is The Plastic In Your Old Barbie Toxic?
The Barbie movie updated Barbie’s image for today’s world. But if your Barbie doll was made before 2007, her plastic body might not be safe for kids.
17:17
The State Of Reproductive Health, One Year After Dobbs
After the overturning of Roe v. Wade, state abortion bans are impacting access to reproductive health care nationwide.
The Paradox Of The Modern Cat
If your house cat were the size of a lion, would it try to eat you? Author Jonathan B. Losos explores just how domesticated cats really are.
Do Cells, Tissues, And Organs Give Super Athletes An Edge?
What does it take to be a super athlete? Take a close-up look at cells, tissues, and organs to see if their biology gives them an advantage.
How Star Trek Incorporates Real-Life Science
Astrophysicist Dr. Erin Macdonald talks about consulting on the famous series and the real (and fictional) science on screen.
11:52
Astronomers Spy A Two-Faced Star
The unusual white dwarf star appears to be made of hydrogen on one side and helium on another.
47:19
Revisiting The Nuclear Age With ‘Oppenheimer’
In Christopher Nolan’s new film, moviegoers will face the United States’ contentious nuclear history.
33:40
How Does The Brain Control Your Every Move?
A new chapter for the ‘homunculus’ could lead to breakthroughs in brain injury treatments.
Use Engineering To Design The Perfect Ice Cream
Create your perfect scoop in this ice cream science activity! All you need is a bag, some milk, and the engineering design method.
Ancient Skeletal Remains: Sex, Gender, And Archaeology
Ancient skeletal remains are more than just bones–archaeologists use them to determine the gender, sex, and roles of ancient peoples.
11:52
The Oceans Are Getting Hotter—And Greener
It’s not just your imagination: the ocean has changed color in the past twenty years.