June 27, 2025
In his new book, a former FDA commissioner unpacks the latest science on metabolism, weight loss, and how GLP-1 drugs actually work. Plus, the first images from the brand new Vera C. Rubin Observatory have finally been unveiled. And, researchers have observed a population of orcas that use kelp tools to scratch their backs.
16:28
In a New Play, Trusty Sidekick Is a Supercomputer
Madeleine George’s new play explores our dependency on technology—and each other.
22:35
The Best Science Books Of 2013
Journalist Deborah Blum and Maria Popova of Brainpickings.org share their top science books of 2013.
24:30
Reggie Watts Builds a Synthesizer, Bit by Bit
How do synths work? Reggie Watts shows off a synthesizer you can build yourself.
Where Do the Geminids Come From? (Hint: It’s Not a Comet)
Evidence suggests that these fireballs don’t come from a comet, but an asteroid with a tail.
Building a Synth, Bit by Bit
A new tool and toy from littleBits teaches you how synthesizers work while you make electronic music.
Fritz Kahn’s Fantastical Journey Through the Body
The German graphic designer was a pioneer of popular science communication, using familiar objects as metaphors for biological processes.
The ‘Bunny Girl’ on the Moon
In 1969, the Apollo 11 astronauts heard about a mythical goddess who lives on the moon with her rabbit companion.
‘The Simpsons’ Has Been Drip-Feeding Us Math
An excerpt from “The Simpsons and Their Mathematical Secrets.”
12:03
China Shoots ‘Jade Rabbit’ Rover to the Moon
BBC science editor David Shukman talks about the motivations behind China’s moonshot.
34:17
The Simpsons’ Secret? It’s Written by Math Geeks
The secret behind “The Simpsons”‘ math jokes? A writers’ room full of ex-mathematicians.
15:02
Would More Technology Mean Safer Trains?
Seventy thousand miles of track will need to be outfitted with “positive train control” technology by 2015.
14:32
Speech Science: Tongue Twisters and Valley Girls
Unraveling the speech patterns behind tongue twisters and Valley girls. . .and boys.
17:06
Dissecting America’s $3 Trillion Medical Bill
Steven Brill discusses “Bitter Pill,” his investigation of skyrocketing healthcare costs.
Backstage at ‘The Big Bang Theory’
Being on set at the popular show left me starstruck.
Airplane of the Future?
This plane looks blue under ultraviolet light, but it’s designed to be green.
10 Questions for Mark Mello, Moth Man
The zoologist attributes his affinity for nature to a childhood of tromping outdoors.
The Choreographic World of Elizabeth Streb
Ira’s conversation with Action Architect Elizabeth Streb continues.
48:03
Annual Prizes Honor the Stranger Side of Science
The IgNobel Prizes salute unusual research, such as an investigation of dung beetle navigation.
22:47
Eating ‘Wilder’ Foods for a Healthier Diet
Author Jo Robinson digs up tips on how to get the most nutrition out of our fruits and vegetables.