On Today's Podcast
After CDC Director Is Ousted, More Senior Officials Resign
Former CDC scientist Demetre Daskalakis left his post, citing political interference and a lack of science in decision-making at the agency.
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.
12:15
These Artists Serve Up Environmental Crises Through Food
May we interest you in a smog-infused cookie? The Center for Genomic Gastronomy is making foods that capture environmental crises.
17:28
How Are AI Chatbots Changing Scientific Publishing?
Generative AI is boosting production of fake scientific papers. How are journal publishers adjusting to this new reality?
16:45
Former NIH Director Reflects On Public Mistrust In Science
In his new book, Dr. Francis Collins explores how the pandemic increased skepticism of the scientific process and what to do about it.
25:04
Surgeon General Takes On Parental Stress And Mental Health
In his latest advisory, US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy adds parents’ wellbeing to his agenda of improving the nation’s mental health.
How A Diver And Artist Brought A Mysterious Octopus To Light
In 1990, diver Arcadio Rodaniche’s findings about a highly social octopus were dismissed. Decades later, his work was validated.
11:33
SpaceX Crew Completes First Citizen Spacewalk
Two citizen astronauts on SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn mission left their capsule and returned safely.
16:56
What Research Shows About Smartphone Bans In Schools
Researchers, educators, and parents discuss smartphones in school. Plus, why research on how social media affects teens defies easy answers.
12:05
The First Successful Whole-Eye Transplant, Over A Year Later
While Aaron James can’t see out of his new eye, it remains viable after more than a year. His surgeons say it’s a massive success.
17:02
Q&A: Updated COVID-19 Vaccines For Fall 2024
Immunologist Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett-Helaire answers audience questions about when to get the latest COVID shot, rapid test efficacy, and more.
11:49
Physicists Create Heaviest Antimatter Nucleus Yet
The heaviest antimatter nucleus to date was spotted in a particle accelerator. It could provide new insights into the nature of matter.
5:36
Different Bird Species May Team Up For Migration
Research indicates songbird species might intentionally travel together during migration, giving each other a possible boost in survival.
17:33
To Confront Climate Change, Imagine Getting It Right
In her new book, climate policy expert Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson explores what ideal climate solutions look like to a lineup of experts.
Climate Solutions Don’t Need “Hope”
In her book, Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson explains why “hope” doesn’t quite describe her simmering passion for solutions to climate change.
Sign Up For ‘Tiny Nature Triumphs’
This fall, we bring you a six-part newsletter about creative ways people are preserving and protecting nature.
Down To Earth: Space Science For Community Change
Use innovation from the International Space Station to solve real-world environmental challenges in your community.
12:00
An Asteroid Impact, Spotted In Advance
ESA officials said it was only the ninth time an asteroid was spotted before reaching Earth’s atmosphere.
17:17
Using DNA To Boost Digital Data Storage And Processing
Researchers are harnessing DNA’s incredible capacity for information storage by turning genetic code into binary code.
6:52
Fishing For—And Saving—Sharks off the Jersey Shore
Shark fishing is alive and well, but the fishermen who do it are increasingly prioritizing conservation.
10:16
Scientists Identify The ‘ManhattAnt’ Spreading Across NYC
An unknown ant was spotted in Manhattan in 2011, and it quickly spread through New York City. We now know what it is.
12:14
Extreme Heat Is Making Learning—And Teaching—More Difficult
As the climate changes and summer temperatures linger, educators are increasingly worried about keeping kids safe from heat exhaustion.