On Today's Podcast
Into the Woods, From Chestnut Genetics To Tiny Forests
Genetic research could speed the restoration of the American chestnut tree. Plus, "rewilding" small spaces with fast-growing miniforests.
Listen NowFebruary 27, 2026
A new simulation shows large amounts of hydrogen in our planet’s core. Scientists report on what they found in 290-million-year-old vomit. Plus, a comedic play and a 20-year neurology study explore what we can do to prevent dementia and cognitive decline. And, a federal law aims to close the legal loophole that lets stores sell THC products from hemp.
Artemis Program Faces More Delays
The Artemis II rocket was rolled off the launchpad this week, and NASA rescheduled the program’s larger goal of landing humans on the moon.
The Art And Science Of Staving Off Cognitive Decline
A new comedic play and a 20-year neurology study explore what we can do to prevent dementia and cognitive decline.
Earth’s Ancient Hydrogen, And Fossilized Vomit
A new simulation shows large amounts of hydrogen in our planet’s core. And, what scientists found in 290-million-year-old vomit.
Into the Woods, From Chestnut Genetics To Tiny Forests
Genetic research could speed the restoration of the American chestnut tree. Plus, “rewilding” small spaces with fast-growing miniforests.
The Miniforest Movement Gains Ground In The U.S.
A 50-year-old planting method from Japan is jump-starting native forest ecosystems in small plots, from schoolyards to parking lots.
EPA Rescinds The Legal Basis For Regulating Greenhouse Gases
The endangerment finding forced the EPA to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. Now, the agency says it doesn’t have the authority to do that.
Are My THC Gummies Going Away?
A federal law aims to close the legal loophole that lets stores sell THC products from hemp. Why are laws around cannabis so confusing?
What’s Accumulating In The Dirty Snowbanks Of NYC?
One intrepid reporter dug into some of NYC’s dirty sidewalk snow and found a combination of poo, heavy metals, and other unsavory items.
Exploring The Natural World With Elizabeth Kolbert
On March 27, meet the Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist of “Life on a Little-Known Planet” during a SciFri Book Club livestream Q&A.
Why Aren’t There Biomarkers For Mental Illness?
Despite major advances in neuroscience, there are no blood tests or scans to confirm the diagnosis of a psychiatric disorder. Why not?
Autism Rates Appear To Be Even Across Sexes. Diagnosis Is Not
Autism has long been thought of as a condition that mostly affects boys—but data suggest that’s not true.
AMA Joins Effort To Launch Independent Vaccine Review Panel
The American Medical Association and Vaccine Integrity Project are partnering to create a vaccine review process independent from the CDC.
What A Snow Drought In The West Means For The Rest Of 2026
States like Utah and Colorado have had abysmal snow totals this winter. It’s not a good sign for a region struggling to maintain its water.
Jump, Spin, Glide: The Science Of Figure Skating
What’s the secret to landing a quadruple lutz, or speeding your death spiral? A figure skating researcher weighs in.
How Are State-Run Psilocybin Therapy Programs Going?
How are the first state-run psilocybin therapy programs going? Plus, psilocybin clinical trials for cancer patients dealing with anxiety.
Mating, Marriage, And Monogamy In The Age Of Apps
An evolutionary biologist weighs in on mating and dating in the age of apps. Is pair bonding passé? Is single the new married?
A Little Grime Can Boost Kids’ Health. But What Kind?
Researchers are homing in on how kids reap long-term health benefits from getting dirty, whether cuddling furry pets or playing with friends.
What A Tea Party With A Bonobo Taught Us About Imagination
Is the capacity to imagine unique to humans? Scientists thought so—but a pretend tea party with a bonobo named Kanzi suggests otherwise.
How Dating Apps Challenge Our Human Nature
“The Intimate Animal” explores how dating apps cause people to raise their expectations—and walk into first dates with preconceived notions.
How Is Screen Time Affecting My Kid?
Researchers have correlated brain and behavioral changes in kids to increased time on phones and other screen devices.