Episodes

The SciFri Book Club is back, with “Braiding Sweetgrass,” a book about rethinking our relationship with the living world. Plus, what will our third COVID winter look like? And why do cats purr?

In addition to intensifying hazards, climate change is already affecting mental health in a variety of ways. Plus, research at a sacred cultural site suggests no-fishing zones provide benefits outside their borders. And, asking for help can make you and others happier.

A game developer explains the consequences of allowing gaming principles to creep into so many corners of our lives. Plus, can new regulations help make dying more eco-friendly? And learn about an ancient form of beer—brewed with herbs and spices—making a comeback.

From adapting to extreme weather to funding STEM education, voters have a say in science policy. Plus, what are our infrastructure needs for the transition to electric vehicles? And, hibernating bear science might say something about diabetes.

How Bangladeshi farmers found a way to save massive amounts of water. Plus, how (and why) NASA successfully caused a collision between a small spacecraft and an asteroid. And how do you vaccinate a wild raccoon? Hint: Fish-flavored candy, and a few helicopters.

A professor of natural philosophy shows how everyday folks can learn the fundamentals of physics in his new book. Plus, deep sea rovers locate carbon at the bottom of the ocean. And, a Ukrainian teen invents a drone that finds landmines.

Scientists discuss what we do and don’t know about how antidepressants work, and discuss treatment using genetic testing. Plus, how AI can help doctors screen for breast cancer. And, an update from the Artemis mission about the challenges of going back to the moon.

Warming water temperatures in the Upper Midwest project a sharp increase in fish dieoffs. Plus, the move toward alternative energy sources may have an unanticipated side effect—sulfuric acid shortages. And, celebrating the life of prolific scientist Frank Drake.

With the overturn of Roe v. Wade, dozens of states are trying to decide where life truly begins. Plus, why you should thank your local wasp. And how Jordan Peele’s new film used inspiration from the oceans to make its new creature.

A growing body of openly autistic scientists are using their expertise and their own experiences to help shape the future of autism research. Plus, scientists are developing a new test for Lyme Disease. And why urban wildlife is so cool and how scientists study it.