On Today's Podcast
Creating 'world models' for robots + An AI math shakeup
How do you create a model to help AI understand the physical world? Plus, the latest AI-driven advancements in math.
Listen NowAugust 14, 2026
At the peak of linguistic diversity, humans may have spoken up to 10 times as many languages as we do today. An immunologist who’s been on both sides of vaccine hesitancy talks about what drives it, what gets missed, and how to build trust. Plus, a new journal documents species “lost to science,” and a conservation project aims to locate lost firefly species in the U.S. and Canada.
11:29
Why Are Honey Bee Colonies Collapsing?
Researchers are trying to figure out why bee colonies across the country are collapsing.
17:28
How To Approach The Risks Of Socializing During A Pandemic
States are opening up. Should you expand your social life? How to assess and manage your risk during the pandemic summer.
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.
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.