On Today's Podcast
A Delicious But Invasive Mushroom Could Affect Fungal Diversity
Golden oyster mushrooms have escaped from home growing kits into the wild. Plus, the ancient origin story of the humble potato plant.
Listen NowSeptember 5, 2025
A sand dune is much more than just a big pile of sand. But how do sand dunes work, and what else do scientists want to know about sand? Plus, candles, hairstyling products, and other common items can produce toxic air pollution that lingers in our homes. And, former CDC scientist Demetre Daskalakis left his post, citing political interference and a lack of science in decision-making at the agency.
16:02
The Man Who Couldn’t See Numbers
A rare disease sheds light on how the human brain processes visual information.
33:56
COVID-19 Is Taking A Toll On Young People’s Mental Health Too
Uncertainty is hard for everyone. Here’s how caretakers can support kids and teens during social distancing.
12:12
PG&E Guilty Plea Sets A Precedent For Climate Change Culpability
Plus, why we shouldn’t count on lockdowns to work again.
17:05
Insights From International Doctors On The Frontlines Of The Pandemic
Two international resident physicians in the Bronx share their experiences treating COVID-19 patients.
12:04
Hummingbirds See Beyond The Rainbow
These speedy fliers see way more than red.
24:24
Protests Shine Light On Facial Recognition Tech Problems
As big tech steps back from facial recognition for police, some AI experts want an end to its use entirely. Here’s why they say reform isn’t enough.
9:35
A NASA Rover Is Catching A Private Ride To The Moon
The rover is designed to explore for the large stores of ice scientists suspect may be frozen in lunar polar regions.
17:21
A Crisis Of Health In Healthcare Workers
The global pandemic and national protests are adding to the mental and emotional burden of taking care of others.
Seeking Algorithmic Justice In Policing AI
AI researchers and advocates discuss abolishing facial recognition tech—and why gradual reforms aren’t enough.
Cephalopod Week Postponed
Science Friday will still celebrate Cephalopod Week later this year, but we’ve decided that now is not the time.
Anthony Fauci Gives Advice On How To Reopen The United States
From second waves to vaccines, “America’s doctor” gives advice on how the country should reopen after COVID-19.
12:06
Calling Out Racism In The Scientific Community
Plus, some companies are stepping back from facial recognition tech.
22:57
The Police’s Impact On Public Health
Researchers are investigating the physical and mental health impacts of stop-question-and-frisk policing.
22:45
Being Social Takes ‘Good Chemistry’
A psychiatrist explains the mental health impacts of social distancing.
33:56
Anthony Fauci Explains How To Make It Through His ‘Worst Nightmare’
‘America’s Doctor’ provides public health lessons from the AIDS epidemic, and strategies to make it out of the COVID-19 crisis.
On Twitter, Black Scientists Call Out Racism In Academia
Using #BlackInTheIvory, Black scientists speak out on the pervasive racism in academia by sharing their experiences with repeated microaggressions, gaslighting, and physical threats.
12:03
Research Shows Peaceful Protest Depends On Police Behavior
Fifty years of research suggests police behavior makes the biggest difference in how safe protests are for everyone. Plus, how tear gas ups COVID-19 risk.
16:31
Using Chemistry To Get The Perfect Cup Of Coffee
How understanding water flow, particle size distribution, and water chemistry can help you brew the perfect cup of coffee.
28:49
‘Radical’ Explores The Hidden History Of Breast Cancer
Did you know the ubiquitous pink ribbons were almost peach-colored? Or that the DOD has spent three billion dollars on breast cancer research?
16:49
With Butterfly Wings, There’s More Than Meets The Eye
New research suggests living cells on the butterfly wing help it regulate temperature.