On Today's Podcast
How El Niño shapes the world’s weather trends
The cycle of El Niño and La Niña is a powerful shaper of weather trends worldwide. What could a "super" El Niño bring?
Listen NowMay 8, 2026
Your personal biometric data—from your face, to your gait, to your weight—is constantly being collected and sold. Who’s buying it, and why? Plus, the sci-fi thriller “Hole in the Sky” imagines an alien first-contact scenario set in the heart of Cherokee Nation. And, the SuperCDMS SNOLAB experiment, located deep in a nickel mine, aims to detect signs of dark matter particles passing through the Earth.
Mining For The Phosphorus Locked In Ancient Poop
Scientists once looked to fossilized feces to help fertilize new agriculture fields. But do the costs outweigh the benefits in the longterm?
The Power Of Phosphorus: ‘The Devil’s Element’ Author Q&A
On April 27, join our event with the author of ‘The Devil’s Element’ about our long history with elemental phosphorus.
11:25
Despite Superconductor Breakthrough, Some Scientists Remain Skeptical
The new superconductor has exciting potential uses, but the team behind the breakthrough recently had another superconductor study retracted.
8:16
Can Utah’s Great Salt Lake Be Saved Before It’s Too Late?
The lake’s water level has significantly declined since the 1980s. But local scientists and politicians are optimistic they can save it before it’s too late.
25:15
Exploring A New Theory About Dark Energy’s Origins
Astrophysicists are divided over a new theory suggesting dark energy comes from supermassive black holes.
42:20
Tips And Tricks To Grow Your Garden In A Changing Climate
Horticulturists weigh in on how you can best adapt your garden to new extremes.
How Utah Scientists Rang The Alarm About The Great Salt Lake
The shrinking Great Salt Lake puts Utah at risk of an ecological and public health emergency. Local scientists are stepping up, sharing actionable steps to help save it.
Celebrate Our Planet At An Interactive Science Fair For Kids
On April 18, join the SciFri team at WBUR CitySpace in Boston for a science fair for the climate, designed for kids and families.
11:57
Insulin Maker Eli Lilly Finally Caps The Drug’s Cost
The drug will be capped at $35, making it more accessible to the people who need it most.
17:27
The Lasting Allure Of Shackleton’s ‘Endurance’
The maritime archeologist who found the storied wreck discusses the mission and his new book.
12:18
Inside The ‘Chaos Machine’ Of Social Media
Author Max Fisher takes a deep dive into how big tech has accumulated so much unchecked power.
8:51
Taking On Renewables’ AC/DC Disconnect
A project aims to make large-scale solar plants more efficient and reliable.
8:17
Are These Ancient Galaxies Too Big For Their Age?
Tiny red dots observed by the Webb telescope have some astronomers pondering theories of galactic formation.
7:22
How These Russian Wasps Could Help Save Ash Trees
Scientists recruited the help of the emerald ash borers’ natural predator to keep their population in check.
10:15
Vocal Fry Serves Up Treats For Toothed Whales
A new study shows the creaky voice effect some people love to hate is important for echolocation in the deep ocean.
16:28
It’s Spacetime And Science Season At The Oscars
From multiverses to volcanoes, this year’s Academy Award nominees include many pictures where science drives the plot.
How Big Tech’s Obsession With Engagement Destabilized Society
Investigative journalist Max Fisher chronicles how social networks prioritized profits and ideals over society’s wellbeing.
What Makes A Superbloom So Super?
A super bloom a desert phenomenon where massive amounts of wildflowers bloom at exactly the same time. How is it possible?
Sustainable Tech For The City Of Ember
The classic young adult novel The City Of Ember is a dystopian struggle for survival underneath the surface of the Earth. But what if they had made use of aquaponics and geothermal power? Find out in this claims, evidence, and reasoning STEM challenge that lives up to this novel’s compelling premise.
Science Friday in Traverse City: Great Lakes Stories with IPR
On April 26, join Ira Flatow and the Interlochen Public Radio Points North team in Traverse City, MI for an evening of local science stories.