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.
17:13
Thanksgiving Calls For A Dash Of Science
America’s Test Kitchen authors explain the surprising science behind 50 popular ingredients.
16:58
America Has A Food Disparity Problem
It’s not just that poorer neighborhoods have fewer grocery stores. Making healthy food takes emotional and energy resources.
17:01
Happy (Holiday) Testing Season!
With so many test options on the market, what tests are best—and when should you use them this holiday season?
How Racism Shapes Our Perception Of Healthy Food
In her new book, Priya Fielding-Singh writes about how race, culture, and media complicate what we choose to eat.
How Climate Change Is Giving Maine’s Wild Blueberries The Blues
Climate change is threatening Maine’s native blueberries. These researchers are looking to provide solutions—and help farmers in the process.
11:54
Could Psychedelics Help Treat Depression?
Psilocybin, the psychedelic component of magic mushrooms, may be effective for some patients for whom other antidepressants haven’t worked.
16:44
”Dopesick” Takes On The Opioid Crisis
The writer of the new Hulu show joins Ira to discuss the ongoing legal saga of elusive accountability for Oxycontin’s misuse.
16:56
Squirrel-Nut Economics And Other Agility Tricks
Researchers are learning about memory, learning, and economics from our bushy-tailed neighbors.
18:00
As Wildfire Intensity Rises, So Does The Human Toll Of Blazes
Wildfire season in the West is now year-long, thanks to climate change. Listen to residents and rescuers as they grapple with the new normal.
17:01
What Will We Reap Without Topsoil?
Soil erosion continues at record pace around the world. Soil scientist Jo Handelman explains the good news: The solutions are simple and well-understood.
17:26
Activists And Vulnerable Nations At COP26 Seek More Than Promises
Action on climate change is slower than many activists would like. And why payment for “loss and damage” is crucial for vulnerable nations.
More Erosion Is Happening Globally. Here’s What It Means For Farms.
Jo Handelsman, Obama’s former science advisor, explains why more farms are experiencing erosion, and how it reduces crop yields.
How Puffins On The Gulf Of Maine Act As ‘Sentinels Of Climate Change’
Learn how conservationists live on an isolated island to study Maine’s puffin population, and how the birds are dealing with warming seas.
The Voices That Shaped 30 Years Of Science Friday
For three decades, Science Friday has connected scientists with the public. Listen to the voices that have shaped our show.
Donate To Science Friday For Our 30th Anniversary!
Science Friday is back in the studio! Celebrate our return to live broadcast today with a donation.
11:57
Behind The FDA’s Decision To Vaccinate Kids Under 12
No severe adverse effects were found in the study vaccinating younger kids against COVID-19 with Pfizer’s shot, according to the FDA.
8:06
What’s Next For Kansas After 20 Years Of Wind Power?
After two decades, wind farms in Kansas take stock of how the state has changed—and what challenges lie ahead.
29:24
Fact Check My Feed: More Kids Can Get COVID-19 Vaccines. Now What?
Pfizer’s vaccine is now approved for kids aged 5 to 11. Plus, which adults need which booster, and preparing for another pandemic holiday season.
5:18
The Science Friday Theme Song That Got Lost In The Mail
23 years ago, Ira dared Steve Allen, the first host of The Tonight Show, to write a Science Friday a theme song. Allen obliged—so why didn’t it make it on the show?
11:11
In First Real-World Experiment, Red Seaweed Cuts Methane In Cows By More Than Half
Researchers fed a working dairy’s cows red algae. It had a stunning impact.