Stuff To Blow Your Mind

HowStuffWorks.com podcasts

Whether they're breaking down the science behind astronauts on drugs or examining life after death, you can count on Robert and Julie to bring you the latest -- and strangest -- Stuff To Blow Your Mind in this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com.

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Episodes

Mitochondrial Eve
5/24/2012
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Duration: 18:55

There’s something awe-inspiring about the prospect of a primordial mother figure. Scientists actually discovered such a woman – and her ghost resides in the genetics of every living human. In this episode, Julie and Robert get to know Mitochondrial Eve.
The Skin We Live In
5/22/2012
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Duration: 28:42

Our outer layer of flesh is beautiful, disgusting, painful and erotic. But what is it, exactly? What role does it play in anatomy and how will we change it in the future? In this episode, Robert and Julie take a close look at the skin we live in.
Nebula in a Box
5/17/2012
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Duration: 24:36

We've all heard about panspermia, in which the building blocks of life theoretically travel to Earth from elsewhere. But from where, exactly? In this episode, Julie and Robert glimpse inside the nebulae of creation. Also, Robert talks about "The Blob."
Three Minutes Till Impact
5/15/2012
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Duration: 28:26

Sure, your chances of going down in a plane crash are pretty slim -- but what if it actually happens? Without a parachute, how can you hope to survive a deadly drop to Earth's surface? In this episode, Robert and Julie discuss your survival plan.
Touching the Void: Psychedelics and Death
5/10/2012
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Duration: 35:03

Can psychedelic drugs help prepare terminal patients for death? Can MDMA ease the pain of dying through the ultimate transcendent experience? In this episode, Julie and Robert discuss what some researchers believe may be the future of end-of-life care.
Walls
5/8/2012
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Duration: 25:32

Civilizations surround themselves in walls. They raise walls against enemies, against the environment and against the spirit world. In this episode, Robert and Julie examine walls, from Ming Dynasty battlements to the galactic borders of our universe.
Hibernation: The Ultimate Suspended Animation!
5/3/2012
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Duration: 26:49

What is hibernation exactly? Is it the opposite of sleep? Is it the future of manned space exploration? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Julie and Robert enter the hibernacula and discuss this perplexing biologic state.
Space Junk in the Trunk
5/1/2012
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Duration: 25:04

How much junk can we accumulate in Earth’s orbit before we seal off our world? Before we cut the planet off from the cosmos and doom civilization to a new dark age? In this episode, Robert and Julie look skyward to space exploration’s garbage.
Contact Lenses of the Gods
4/26/2012
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Duration: 28:15

Imagine a contact lens that displays data against your eyeball, delivering everything from sports scores to soap operas. Contact lens display technology may make this a reality. In this episode, Robert and Julie explore this future augmented reality.
Oh the Lucid Dreams We Weave …
4/24/2012
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Duration: 39:15

" Whether we’re awake or dreaming our neocortex is always shuffling about data and creating stories. But what if you could enter your dream and become the master of your fate? Join Julie and Robert as they weave a tale about how and why we lucid dream.
Voyager and the Scale of our Solar System
4/19/2012
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Duration: 21:28

The Voyager probes continue their journey toward the edge of our solar system, but how much distance have they covered? In this episode, Julie and Robert wrestle with the scale of our solar system, from the atomic fires of our sun to the Ooort cloud.
The Odorous Language of Plants
4/17/2012
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Duration: 22:10

Do you speak the language of the carrots? From the screams of grass blades to the stink songs of carnivorous plants, the green kingdom is abuzz with the silent voices of plants. In this episode, Robert and Julie bend their ear to whispers in the leaves.
Illusions and Light
4/13/2012
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Duration: 17:27

The optical world we perceive is cast in illusion – and the properties of light itself dictate that reality. In this episode, Robert and Julie spin off a discussion of blue skies, sunlight and more.
The Seven Deadlies: Sloth
4/10/2012
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Duration: 23:51

When does mere laziness become moral failure? When does apathy descend into sloth? In this episode, Julie and Robert tackle one final deadly sin, traveling through both Dante’s purgatory and the neural pathways of the human mind.
Cat Parasites Conquer the World
4/5/2012
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Duration: 42:44

The most successful organisms hide in the shadows. The parasite Toxoplasma gondii is just such a puppet master, and its marionettes include rodents, cats and human beings. In this episode, Julie and Robert uncover Toxo’s neural-hijacking scheme.
The Seven Deadlies: Wrath
4/3/2012
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Duration: 37:53

Where does wrath arise from in the human brain and why do we malign it as one of the seven deadly sins? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Julie continue the buffet of vice in an examination of human anger.
Virtual Sex and Linked Dreaming
3/29/2012
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Duration: 35:42

Imagine a future in which astronauts engage in virtual encounters with Earth-bound spouses. What sort of technology will make this possible? In this episode, Julie and Robert discuss computer-mitigated sexual experiences and linked dreaming.
The Seven Deadlies: Lust!
3/27/2012
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Duration: 39:30

Are we slaves to our desire? Can we resist our passions, or should we go full-satyr and embrace the inner goat? Join Robert and Julie as they journey through the maelstroms of Dante’s Inferno and into a scientific discussion of the ""sin"" called lust.
Organisms: Heavyweight Division
3/22/2012
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Duration: 18:56

Just how big can an Earth organism get? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Julie and Robert look at some of the heavyweight contenders for the largest life form on the planet – and the answer isn’t “blue whale.” What is it? Tune in to find out.
Godzilla vs. Kong vs. Barbie
3/20/2012
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Duration: 28:56

Are you terrified of giant monster attacks? Well, this is the episode for you. Join Robert and Julie as they calm your fears with a healthy dose of science. Listen in as they examine the morphological limitations of gigantic creatures (and more).
Stendhal Syndrome: Kicked in the Brain by Art
3/15/2012
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Duration: 31:23

Imagine a work of art so beautiful that it causes heart palpitations and hallucinations. This Stuff to Blow Your Mind episode dives into the surreal world of Stendhal syndrome. What’s the science behind this psychosomatic illness? Tune in to find out.
The Seven Deadlies: Grasping Greed
3/13/2012
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Duration: 27:22

Would you like more money? Sure, we all would. But how does greed break down in the mind? Where’s the line between appreciating wealth and complete corruption? In this episode, Julie and Robert dive into the world of Scrooge McDuck, King Midas and more.
Novelty Junkies
3/8/2012
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Duration: 21:53

Do you love new experiences and fresh ideas? Join Julie and Robert as they examine neophilia, the love of novelty. How can this swell-sounding human attribute lead one person down the road to ruin and another through a life of success?
The Seven Deadlies: Glutton Chops
3/6/2012
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Duration: 35:44

When does appetite transform into disorder? What are we to make of competitive eating? Join Robert and Julie as they continue their science-guided tour of hell, chatting with gluttons in the Inferno’s third circle and considering modern forms of gluttony.
Tidally Locked Perpetual Darkness
3/1/2012
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Duration: 20:19

Why do we never see the moon’s backside? What would the Earth be like if one side always faced the sun? In this episode, Robert and Julie contemplate tidally locked planets and moons, where one side of the globe burns while the other freezes in darkness.
The Seven Deadlies: Green With Envy
2/28/2012
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Duration: 35:04

Guided by science, Julie and Robert continue their journey through the pleasures and perils of the seven deadly sins. This time the vice of choice is envy, so prepare to discover the neuroscience behind schadenfreude in this episode.
The Fantastic Voyage of Endoscopic Cameras
2/23/2012
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Duration: 30:27

You no longer have to turn yourself inside out to travel through your digestive track. Just swallow a camera-bot, grab some pop corn, and watch the kernels traverse your guts. Join Robert and Julie as they look into the world of capsule endoscopy.
The Seven Deadlies: Pride Cometh Before the Brain
2/21/2012
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Duration: 21:21

What is pride, and why is it considered such a bad thing? Is pride actually an evolutionary virtue? Join Julie and Robert as they take listeners on a guided tour of the so-called seven deadly sins. Tune in for a look at the science behind pride.
Absolute Disgust
2/16/2012
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Duration: 37:06

There’s plenty of stuff in this world to summon your disgust. But why do we feel this way? Is there logic behind repulsion, and if so what is your brain trying to say? In this episode, Robert and Julie enter a world of hacking coughs, dog feces and more.
Monogamy Shamogamy
2/14/2012
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Duration: 29:36

From black vultures to angler fish, the Earth is home to many monogamous species. Humans, however, don’t quite make the list. In this episode, Julie and Robert explore why humans have a hard time with the concept of monogamy. Are we hard wired to stray?
Can animals be gay?
2/9/2012
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Duration: 31:06

If you’ve ever pondered the existence of same-sex penguin couples, then this is the podcast for you. In this episode, Julie and Robert explore homosexuality among animals. Why does it exist? How much of our own human baggage do we drag into this question?
In the Lair of the Rat King
2/7/2012
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Duration: 28:23

In medieval Germany it was a dire omen of plague-ridden doom. Today, it remains more of a grotesque cultural reference. Join Robert and Julie as they enter the lair of the rat king, and prepare to be shocked by the reality of microbial rat kings.
Virgin Galactic: $200,000 Ticket to Ride
2/2/2012
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Duration: 29:36

Want to blast into space with celebrities? Virgin Galactic might just be your ticket to ride. Join Julie and Robert as they discuss the landmark space tourism venture and the future of space travel. Plus what might happen if Kanye ventured into space?
The Existential Horror of the Humanzee
1/31/2012
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Duration: 31:44

A Russian program to breed human/chimpanzee hybrids? Prisoners injected with animal testes? These grotesque tales shed light on the line between humans and chimpanzees. In this episode, Robert and Julie discuss humanity's attempts to create a humanzee.
We Are Stardust
1/26/2012
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Duration: 20:55

The atoms in your heart once burned in the fires of a dead star. Does this constitute an almost-spiritual connection to the cosmos or is it mere chemistry? In this episode, Robert and Julie discuss the billion-year-old carbon inside us.
Hug it Out
1/24/2012
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Duration: 41:06

Just what sort of hugger are you? Do you squeeze random strangers? Do you grapple your pals in a bear hug or go for the side-hug? In this episode, Julie and Robert discuss the science of hugging it out. Plus, you’ll learn about Robert’s most awkward hugs.
The Science of Arguing
1/19/2012
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Duration: 26:29

Why do we argue? How much bickering is ego sparring and to what extent our evolutionary heritage involved? Join Julie and Robert as they dive into the science behind arguing, from the argumentative theory of reasoning to the health benefits of squabbling.
The Magic Eight Ball of Your Existence
1/17/2012
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Duration: 35:00

Imagine a computer model of the entire world, one on which world leaders can test their decisions and gauge the ripple effect of their actions. Is such a simulation possible? In this episode, Robert and Julie discuss plans for a Living Earth Simulator.
Would You Rather: Bug Diet vs. Bacteria Diet
1/12/2012
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Duration: 34:51

So which would you choose: an exclusive diet of bugs for the rest of your life, or an endless string of fermented feasts? In this “Would You Rather?” episode, Julie and Robert present the facts and let you decide which diet you’d choose.
Black Blizzards of the Dust Bowl
1/10/2012
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Duration: 25:15

Just what was the Dust Bowl? In this episode, Robert and Julie travel back to the ruined farms and black blizzards of the Great Depression. How did we plant trees to combat ecological damage, and how do we hope to defeat the Gobi Desert today?
Cheating in the Name of
1/5/2012
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Duration: 33:32

Have you ever cheated on a test? You're not alone. But what goes on in a student's mind when they reach for the cheat sheet and how does it play out in various cultures? In this episode, Robert and Julie look at what science has to say about cheating.
The Way of the Sword
1/3/2012
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Duration: 31:29

From samurai blades to claymores, the sword is one of humanity's most iconic inventions, and they've cut a bloody swath across history. In this episode, Robert and Julie consider the way of the sword, from their manufacture to their use in film and more.
Anatomy of a Hangover
12/29/2011
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Duration: 36:21

Before your next New Year's hangover, let's explore what creates that splitting headache and the realization that you're wearing half a gorilla costume. Join Julie and Robert as they lead you through the effects of drinking and tips to cure the condition.
Newton: The Chuck Norris of Science
12/27/2011
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Duration: 28:21

You are unprepared for the awesomeness of Sir Isaac Newton. Sure, he contributed to science, but a deeper look into his life shows just how Chuck Norrisy the man was. Plug in your headphones and prepare to enter the obsessive mind of a scientific master.
Sunken Dangers
12/22/2011
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Duration: 24:01

What mysteries rest at the bottom of the sea? Which embody nature's diversity? Which tell the tale of humanity's darker side? In this episode, Robert and Julie look to the vessels lost beneath the waves, and the things that linger in their rusting hearts.
Spontaneous Human Combustion
12/20/2011
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Duration: 23:58

Do people really just go up in flames? Do grannies really flare up like roman candles in their rockers and is there anything in science that explains why a middle-aged bachelor might burn down to his sneakers without warning? In this episode, Julie and Robert enter the dubious world of spontaneous human combustion. Where does the science end and the nonsense begin?
The Santa Claus Machine
12/15/2011
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Duration: 21:31

How does Santa Claus make so many gifts? Clearly his elves have harnessed the power of nanomanufacturing. But what does this mean for the planet? In this episode, Robert and Julie consider the possibilities of limitless custom manufacturing.
Give the Gift of a Mystery Box
12/13/2011
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Duration: 19:29

Why are mystery packages so appealing? How do they improve our mental faculties and fuel our creativity? In this episode, Julie and Robert share tales of sealed envelopes, quantum thought experiments, virginity boxes and things Pandora should never have opened. You might even score a gift idea or two.
Nanohealthcare: The Tiny Doctors Inside Me
12/8/2011
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Duration: 33:53

Imagine a future in which replacement organs grow in magnetic fields and smart pills work for months. Thanks to advances in nanotechnology, this age of super medicine is nearly here. In this episode, Robert and Julie explore the world of nanohealthcare.
Pyromania: What's Your Relationship with Fire?
12/6/2011
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Duration: 36:46

When does an appreciation for fire turn into an obsession with the flickering, golden god? Who are firebugs, and what drives them to burn? In this episode, Julie and Robert slip into their best burn suits and hide the matches as they explore pyromania.
The Hashtag Heard Round the World
12/1/2011
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Duration: 32:09

Waves of protest continue across the globe, but modern protesters benefit from social media technology. In this episode, Julie and Robert discuss history's largest protests, the Arab Spring, Occupy Wall Street and the future of protest.
Why do we protest?
11/29/2011
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Duration: 38:26

Humans rarely seem to agree, but when we do the results can be staggering. How does the phenomenon called protesting actually work? In this episode, Robert and Julie examine the world of protest and share a few tips for surviving your next rally.
The Future of Stink
11/24/2011
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Duration: 32:55

Will smell-o-vision make a comeback? Will our zombie movies smell like rotten flesh and our video games reek of voided bowels and fear? In this episode, Robert and Julie discuss the history of scented media and the emerging technology of printable smells.
Living with Robots: Can we build a better bot?
11/22/2011
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Duration: 38:43

Our cohabitation with robotic servants is pretty much guaranteed. So what are we doing today to make sure these are the sort of robot we can tolerate? In this episode, Julie and Robert discuss how our robotic caretakers are shaping up.
Smells to Blow Your Mind
11/17/2011
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Duration: 25:43

Did you know that smell is the only one of your senses with a direct connection to your brain? Or that fancy cheese and David Beckham’s foot odor share the same molecular smells? In this episode, Robert and Julie break down the amazing science of smell.
Living With Robots: Worst Roomates Ever
11/15/2011
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Duration: 31:57

The robot invasion of our homes has begun, and the future is bright with robotic caregivers. But how to we plan to keep this cohabitation from feeling creepy? In this episode, Julie and Robert discuss “robot skin,” thought-anticipating machines and more.
Martyrdom: Transcendence on the Rack
11/10/2011
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Duration: 33:42

We've all seen images of saints and martyrs rising above their torments, but is it really possible to find transcendence on the rack? In this episode, Robert and Julie look into the connections between physical pain and religious experience.
This is Your Brain on Art
11/8/2011
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Duration: 43:52

Julie and Robert examine the neurological side of your trip to the museum. What happens when we lose ourselves in Mona Lisa's smile or the nightmare worlds of Hieronymus Bosch? Were artists the first neuroscientists?
The Science of Sports Fandom
11/3/2011
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Duration: 36:58

Why do humans devote so much time to organized sports? As it turns out, the roots of sports run deep. In this episode, Julie and Robert explore the evolutionary, tribal and neurological reasons to cheer on the Cornish Hens against the Fighting Cloacae.
Humanity's Love Affair with an Apocalypse
11/1/2011
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Duration: 37:41

Human beings are in love with the end. Ruined cities fill our dreams, and fears steers our thoughts through landscapes of bones and zombie hordes. In this episode, Robert and Julie examine the cognitive science behind our apocalyptic love affair.
Frankenstein's Monster
10/27/2011
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Duration: 32:53

What are the ramifications of mad science? Frankenstein’s tortured creation has become an avatar for scientific horror. Join Robert and Julie as they explore the roots of Frankenstein’s monster. Learn more about the past and future of science-gone-wrong.
What's in a witches brew?
10/25/2011
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Duration: 41:46

Gather round the cauldron with Julie and Robert as they ladle out hefty servings of magical thinking, medieval psychedelics, feminist history and the power of ritual. Just what was old-school witchery all about? This episode has the answers.
The Candy Corn Menace
10/20/2011
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Duration: 38:25

Whether scarfing down gummy worms or pouring an endless cascade of sugar into their breakfast cereal, children's appetite for sweets seems insatiable. In this episode, Julie and Robert break down the science of childhood sugar madness.
The Creepy Cool World of Imaginary Friends
10/18/2011
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Duration: 28:55

Why do kids chat with invisible friends? Those creepy encounters are just part of how the human brain works. Even the average adult brain engages in something very similar. Join Robert and Julie as they enter the world of imaginary friendship.
Hulking Out With Hysterical Strength
10/13/2011
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Duration: 29:59

Can a grieving mother summon the strength of 12 Hulk Hogans and lift a full-sized automobile up off the ground to save her son? In this episode, Robert and Julie take on the subject of hysterical strength and discuss the science behind hulking out.
Evolution and the Orgasm Wars
10/11/2011
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Duration: 36:20

What would aliens make of the human orgasm? After all, science still hasn’t figured out exactly what the female orgasm is all about. In this episode, Julie and Robert examine the two warring factions in the debate over female orgasm evolution.
The Bystander Effect and You
10/6/2011
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Duration: 25:50

The next time your car breaks down, count the number of vehicles that pass you by. That’s the bystander effect in action. But why do people in crowds tend not to help those in need? Tune in to learn more about crowd apathy and what it says about humans.
The Science of Lucky Pants
10/4/2011
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Duration: 34:16

What do psychologists think about your lucky rabbit’s foot? In this episode, Robert and Julie break down the science of good luck rituals and charms. They look at what luck reveals about the human mind, as well as whether any of it actually works.
Splendid Isolation
9/29/2011
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Duration: 46:14

Do you ever want to live alone in the desert, or does an afternoon alone give you the chills? Either way, isolation can have a profound influence on our health. In this episode, Robert and Julie wade into their isolation chambers to sort it all out.
Science of Pet Peeves
9/27/2011
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Duration: 33:57

Can science explain why other people's phone calls are so annoying? Or why Julie hates fake lavender scents and Robert flies into a rage over turn signals? In this episode your hosts discuss why everything is the worst and what we can do to cope.
Interview: Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson
9/22/2011
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Duration: 28:41

In this episode, Robert and Julie interview astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. What does the planet’s leading science communicator have to say about the future of space travel, mind-blowing cosmology and the science in America? Listen in to find out.
Misophonia: Why Your Brain Hates the Sound of Gum Chewing
9/20/2011
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Duration: 22:52

Does the sound of someone smacking gum drive you crazy? It’s possible you’re just a cranky jerk, but science presents another possibility: misophonia. Tune in to learn more about the mysterious condition that makes some noises so difficult to cope with.
Is free will an illusion?
9/15/2011
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Duration: 39:49

Your life is filled with choices and first steps down – or is it? According to many neuroscientists, free will is a sham. In this episode, Julie and Robert have no choice but to take a sobering look at decision making and the unconscious brain.
What if Earth was a cube?
9/13/2011
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Duration: 26:54

Imagine life on a cubed Earth. How would this alter our experience of gravity? How would it affect global climate? In this episode, Robert and Julie step foot on the impossibly square planet to better understand our world's shape and properties.
Decision Fatigue: Death by 1,000 Choices
9/8/2011
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Duration: 38:45

Could fretting over insignificant choices decrease your decision making effectiveness later in the day? Join Robert and Julie as they look at the causes -- and effects -- of decision fatigue.
The Procrastinating Brain
9/6/2011
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Duration: 39:25

Why do we procrastinate? Why do we put off dreaded tasks and long-held ambitions for short-term pleasures? In this episode, Robert and Julie break down procrastination. Listen in and learn more about what you can do to cut down on procrastination.
The Science of False Memories
9/1/2011
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Duration: 39:02

We're the recorded information of all the experiences that came before the present moment. So how do we deal with the knowledge that some of the memories that compose us are fraudulent? Join Robert and Julie as they examine the world of false memories.
Don't Eat The Panda
8/30/2011
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Duration: 37:32

Humans have a complex relationship with other animals. Some are friends, and some are delicious. So why do we feel closer to some animals, while others are lunch? In this episode, Robert and Julie take a look at the world of eating and loving animals.
The Big Sting: Wasps vs. Bees
8/25/2011
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Duration: 33:00

Bees and wasps share a long history, and they’ve evolved into distinct forms. One hunts while the other farms. But which group would win in a war? Join Robert and Julie as they chronicle the battle between the honey masters and the sultans of sting.
Can my nightmares kill me?
8/23/2011
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Duration: 29:59

Can nightmares scare us to death? Join Robert and Julie as they discuss the CDC’s investigation of sleep deaths – deaths that inspired Wes Craven to create the “Nightmare on Elm Street” franchise. Tune in to learn more about Brugada syndrome.
The Science of Brain Wiping
8/18/2011
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Duration: 33:15

Imagine if you could choose to erase a particularly agonizing or embarrassing memory with a quick injection or a handy pill. Sounds nifty, but could this ever happen in real life? Join Robert and Julie as they explore brain wiping techniques.
Brood 13: Emergence of the Cicadas
8/16/2011
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Duration: 22:32

It might sound like the title of a horror movie, but make no mistake: Brood 13 is real. In this episode, Robert and Julie explore the bizarre life of the periodical cicada, insects that emerge from the ground every 13 or 17 years. Tune in to learn more.
Extreme Sleep: Parasomnias
8/11/2011
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Duration: 30:34

Most of us take sleep for granted, but there’s a world of bizarre slumbers out there that only parasomniacs understand. Enter the world of sleep walking, eating, paralysis, violence and snoregasms. Join Robert and Julie to learn more about extreme sleep.
The Lying Game
8/9/2011
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Duration: 39:30

Is a lie mere deception, an occasional un-truth or something deeper? Join Robert and Julie as they plunge into the cognitive depths of lies to examine our abilities to linguistically warp perception. Tune in to learn more about lying.
Into the Dyson Sphere
8/4/2011
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Duration: 29:33

When it’s not showing up in episodes of “Star Trek" or imprisoning Necron Star Gods, Dyson spheres are the brainchild of physicist Freeman Dyson. But what exactly are they are? Join Robert and Julie as they break down the nature of Dyson spheres.
The Cognitive Dissonance of Exorcisms
8/2/2011
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Duration: 35:52

Priests in horror flicks drive demons out of innocent victims. But what’s really happening in these apparent showdowns between good and evil? Join Robert and Julie as they look at this exorcism through the lens of cognitive dissonance and personification.
Sharks in Space
7/28/2011
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Duration: 18:21

Although there's no such thing as a shark in space (yet), sharks have provided invaluable information to NASA. In this episode, Robert and Julie take you from the ocean to outer space as they examine the relationship between NASA, science and sharks.
Electronic Music
7/26/2011
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Duration: 44:37

From Intelligent Dance Music to Auto Tune, electronic music is everywhere, but what’s really happening in the musical space shared by humans and machines? Join Robert and Julie as they discuss the authenticity, creativity and future of electronic music.
Bugs, Twinkies and Ancient Foods
7/21/2011
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Duration: 34:03

You are what you eat, which poses an interesting conundrum for omnivores. In this episode, Robert and Julie take a fascinating look at humanity's earliest meals. How did we learn which berries could kill us? When did fire enter the picture?
The Pooping Duck: When Robots Digest
7/19/2011
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Duration: 31:12

Jacques de Vaucanson's fabulous digesting duck was a clockwork miracle capable of reproducing the processes of ingestion, digestion and defecation. Join Robert and Julie to learn more about robotic digestion from the pooping duck to the modern day.
Walt Disney the Futurist
7/14/2011
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Duration: 44:01

When you hear Walt Disney's name, chances are you think of cartoons and theme parks. But do you know about Walt Disney the futurist? Join Robert and Julie as they examine Disney’s dreams for the future and his “conditional optimism” for the human race.
Microdrone Soup
7/12/2011
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Duration: 28:28

What's that buzzing around the room? A bird? A plane? Nope, it's just a robotic insect sent by some shadow government. Join Robert and Julie as they check in on drone technology, the rise of biomimetic bird-bots and just how the future may shake out.
Funny or Die
7/7/2011
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Duration: 43:45

We all know "funny" when we encounter it, but what's going on inside the human mind when we feel amused? Join Robert and Julie as they discuss long-standing -- and more recent -- theories about humor's evolutionary purpose.
Gimme That Old Time Space Religion
7/5/2011
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Duration: 38:59

Will humans leave religion behind when they become an interplanetary species? Not hardly. Join Robert and Julie as they discuss how belief systems may change as a result of space exploration, on off-world colonization or extraterrestrial contact.
Math, Music and Mayhem
6/30/2011
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Duration: 24:56

Whether it’s Art Garfunkel’s mathematics degree or the structure of the chromatic scale, it’s easy to correlate music and math. But why are so many musical minds also well suited for number crunching? Tune in to learn more about music and math.
Poking Einstein's Brain
6/28/2011
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Duration: 28:21

How did Albert Einstein's brain wind up on a road trip to hang with the author of “Naked Lunch?” In this episode, Robert and Julie give Einstein’s head cheese a serious poking to discuss the secrets of all the brain matter inside that skull of yours.
Welcome to the Memory Palace
6/23/2011
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Duration: 28:11

Stroll into the memory palace, an imagined location that just might expand your brain power. In this podcast, Robert and Julie discuss the Method of Loci, a mnemonic device that allows mental athletes to perform astounding acts of recall.
Do-it-yourself Organs
6/21/2011
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Duration: 30:33

We’d all like to replace our failing organs with spare guts, but when will it be possible? Join Robert and Julie as they explain why the day is fast approaching. Tune in to learn how stem cells and organ scaffolding may change the future of medicine.
Fathers of the Wild: The Good, Bad and the Ugly
6/16/2011
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Duration: 34:20

What makes a dog a lousy father and a wolf a stellar patriarch? Join Robert and Julie as they anthropomorphize the animal kingdom in an effort to find out why some species are more like Cliff Huxtable while some are more like Darth Vader.
Are you ready for a neo-evolution?
6/14/2011
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Duration: 21:42

Humans have spent ages evolving into the charming specimens we are today. But what if we could accelerate the pace of evolution, giving our future progeny super-human attributes? Join Julie and Robert as they discuss if evolution as we know it is over.
Invasion of the iPod People
6/9/2011
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Duration: 25:50

What happens when we plug into our gadgets and tune out the rest of the world? In this episode, Robert and Julie discuss the so-called Walkman Effect and the manner in which our precious music and personal electronics alter the reality we live in.
The Brilliant and Terrifying Future of Toilets
6/7/2011
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Duration: 36:57

Although the subject makes some people very uncomfortable, sanitation is enormously important. But what kind of technology will we find in the toilets of the future? Join Robert and Julie as they investigate the future of sanitation.
Night of the Platypus
6/2/2011
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Duration: 23:07

With a duck's head and a beaver's body, the duck-billed platypus is often the butt of jokes. Yet this oddity helps us understand how creatures evolve. Join Robert and Julie as they investigate the unique anatomy of the platypus.
Technology of the Ancients
5/31/2011
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Duration: 42:34

The notion of Vedic nuclear weapons is a more than a bit far-fetched. Yet from the Antikythera mechanism to Archimedes’ death ray, people are fascinated by the idea of ancient advanced technology. Join Robert and Julie as they separate fact from fiction.
Day of the Dolphin
5/26/2011
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Duration: 33:22

In 1793, moviegoers watched dolphins carry out assassination plots in “The Day of the Dolphin,” part of the dolphin fever stirred up by John C. Lilly. But just how smart are these mammals? Join Robert and Julie as they enter the world of the Dolphin.
This is Your Brain on Meditation
5/24/2011
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Duration: 29:34

People around the world practice meditation, but what exactly is it, and how does it affect our brains? Join Robert and Julie as they look at the science behind meditation.
Robots and Morality
5/19/2011
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Duration: 27:13

Can robots be programmed to behave ethically? It's possible that future robots may possess emotions like empathy or guilt. Join Robert and Julie as they interview Dr. Ronald Arkin, a leading expert on the study of robotic consciousness modeling.
Is math a human invention or a human discovery?
5/17/2011
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Duration: 38:40

In this episode, Robert and Julie take a sweeping look at math, addressing several important questions. For example: What is math? Where does math come from? What mathematical skills are we born with and how much can we understand?
999 Birthday Candles
5/12/2011
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Duration: 34:46

The Hayflick limit posits that we can live for 120 years. But recent research suggests we could live to for 1,000 years. Enter maverick biogerontologist Aubrey de Grey, who has pulled the rug out from under his entire field. Tune in to learn more.
Atomic Bomb Parties and Nuclear Fallout
5/10/2011
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Duration: 30:59

In the 1950s, residents of Las Vegas partied hard, and their booze-fueled parties sometimes included a special treat -- the observation of nuclear tests. So what happened next? Tune in as Robert and Julie breakdown the science behind nuclear fallout.
Crimes of Paleontology
5/5/2011
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Duration: 42:37

It's no secret that the history of paleontology is replete with hoaxes and incorrect conclusions -- but how many can be chalked up to honest mistakes, and how many were scams? Tune in to learn more about the storied, sketchy history of paleontology.
The Placebo Effect: Brain Over Pain
5/3/2011
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Duration: 33:50

A placebo is a fake medicine included in drug trials to show, through contrast, the benefits of the real medicine. Yet sometimes the patients taking the placebo still experience improvements -- why? Tune in to learn more about the placebo effect.
Change Your Mind the Hard Way
4/28/2011
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Duration: 37:57

When an iron rod shot through Phineas Gage's head, it destroyed the majority of his left frontal lobe. He survived, but his personality and behavior changed -- why? Tune in as Robert and Julie explore the relationship between the brain and the mind.
Tyrannosaurus Sex
4/26/2011
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Duration: 24:17

Although scientists still aren't sure exactly how dinosaurs reproduced, fascinating (and surprising) conjectures abound. Join Robert and Julie as they explore the procedures experts use to recreate the lives of dinosaurs, from the fossil record to DNA.
The Quest for Cyberimmortality
4/21/2011
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Duration: 32:53

Is it possible that human evolution is on the verge of transcending its organic roots? And, if it is possible, how could it actually occur? Join Robert and Julie as they explore the mind-blowing concept of cyberimmortality.
Is privacy an illusion?
4/19/2011
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Duration: 32:17

Are computers approaching singularity? Join Robert and Julie as they discuss the quest for cyberimmortality.
Five-fingered Evolutionary Discount
4/14/2011
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Duration: 24:36

Mickey Mouse gets along just fine with four digits on each hand, so why do humans have five of these digits? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Julie ask why so many creatures evolved with a five-fingered discount.
Neuromyths: What You Think You Know About Your Brain
4/12/2011
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Duration: 23:44

We all know the myth that we use only 10% of our brains, but how we know it’s a myth in the first place? In this episode, Robert and Julie interview neurosurgeon Dr. T. Glenn Pait and learn how neuroscience is changing the way we think about our brains.
Does your dog really love you?
4/7/2011
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Duration: 38:22

It's often said that dogs are man's best friend -- but does science support this claim? In this episode, Robert and Julie examine the science behind human-canine relationships. Tune in to learn whether or not your pooch is sincere.
Lying Robots and the Lies They Tell
4/5/2011
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Duration: 39:51

Will robots of the future eventually surpass the intellectual plane of humanity? This event (which, as far as we know, hasn't happened yet) is known as the robot singularity. Listen in to learn more about the growing role of robotics in society.
Why Your Brain Like Conspiracy
3/31/2011
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Duration: 33:19

The human brain strives to organize and classify sensory information. But what happens when new information conflicts with pre-existing data? Tune in as Julie and guest host Ben explore the fascinating phenomenon known as cognitive dissonance.
Pope on a Cosmic Rope
3/29/2011
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Duration: 21:16

Should extraterrestrials be converted to Catholicism, or are they somehow free from sin? In this episode, Julie and Robert contemplate the Vatican’s current stance on the cosmos and what it means for the future of belief on planet Earth.
Germ-free Dirty Hippies
3/24/2011
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Duration: 28:11

It's been said that cleanliness is close to godliness, but is it possible for a person to be too clean? In this episode, Julie and Robert analyze the relationship between hygiene, bacteria and health. Tune in to learn more.
Symbiosis: My So-Called Parasitic Life
3/22/2011
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Duration: 29:20

In the process known as symbiosis, two organisms of different species exist in close physical contact to the benefit of both organisms. But how does that work? Listen in to learn more about the process of symbiosis, and how it can affect human beings.
To Terraform or Not to Terraform?
3/17/2011
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Duration: 29:04

Think of terraforming as a planet-wide renovation project: By creating a more Earth-like atmosphere on Mars, some scientists hope to make more space for Earth's burgeoning population. But could we really do it? Tune in to learn more about terraforming.
(Kick)Astrobiology
3/15/2011
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Duration: 18:32

Astrobiology is a lot more than sitting around wondering what aliens look like -- instead, this discipline draws on multiple fields to study the basic building blocks of life in space or on other worlds. Join Robert and Julie as they explore astrobiology.
Woolly Mammoths For Sale
3/10/2011
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Duration: 28:54

You haven't misread the title; rest assured that woolly mammoths are still extinct. However, there are several scientists trying revive mammoths -- and they might just succeed. Tune in to learn more about mammoth cloning.
Musical Hallucinations Gone Wild
3/8/2011
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Duration: 16:22

Have you ever had a musical hallucination? Not a song stuck in your head - but a genuine hallucination, real enough to completely fool your senses? Join Robert and Julie as they explore the causes of musical hallucinations.
Attack of the Creative Brain
3/3/2011
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Duration: 37:09

Creativity is one of humanity's most crucial skills, and it is also one of the least-understood. In this episode, Robert and Julian explore the science, myths and theories surrounding creativity.
Eat Popcorn. Eat Popcorn. Eat Popcorn.
3/1/2011
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Duration: 33:13

Subliminal messaging dates back to 1957, when James Vicary slipped images of popcorn and soda into films at a New Jersey theater. It spooks some consumers, but does it actually work? Tune in to learn more about the science behind subliminal messaging.
Planet Neanderthal
2/24/2011
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Duration: 38:59

For 200,000 years Neanderthals roamed Eurasia, yet over time the population dwindled and disappeared. In this podcast, Julie and Robert explore the story of Neanderthals, comparing them to modern humans and dispelling some popular myths along the way.
Defeat Your Doppelgangers
2/22/2011
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Duration: 36:32

Most people are familiar with the idea of a doppelganger -- some mysterious copy or clone of another human being -- but what's the science behind this phenomenon? Tune in as Julie and Robert take a closer look at doppelgangers.
Are you smarter than an ant swarm?
2/17/2011
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Duration: 25:57

A single ant might not be Mensa material, but a colony of ants can produce some amazingly clever decisions. Tune in as Robert and Julie explore the study of swarm intelligence -- and how it compares to human intelligence.
Children of Tomorrow, Raised by Machines
2/15/2011
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Duration: 41:32

Will tomorrow's school systems be dominated by infallible robotic instructors? Tune in as Julie and Robert explore the bounds of education, artificial intelligence and human-robot relationships in this podcast.
Love, Hate and Robots
2/10/2011
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Duration: 32:44

Will the hopeless romantics of the future fall in love with robots? In this episode, Robert and Julie explore the line between love and hate -- and what a world of beautiful robots may mean for the future. Tune in to learn more.
Scientists in Love
2/8/2011
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Duration: 34:19

Regardless of how brilliant they may be in the lab, scientists are still only human. With Valentine's Day on the horizon, Robert and Julie recount the interactions between love and science. Tune in to learn more.
Underground Robotic Highways
2/3/2011
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Duration: 29:11

As cars become increasingly sophisticated, more and more experts are contemplating the possibility of self-driving vehicles on automated highways. But how close are we to actually achieving this futuristic dream? The answer might surprise you.
You're Such a Tool (User)
2/1/2011
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Duration: 28:15

Tool use isn't unique to human beings -- many other organisms have proven capable of learning to use tools in both wild and captive environments. In this episode, Julie and Robert take a closer look at Earth's tool using life forms.
The Werewolf Principle: Adapting Humans for Space
1/27/2011
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Duration: 37:40

Will astronauts of the future be able to adapt their physiology for long-term space travel and life on other planets? In this episode, Robert and Julie explore the ideal physical modifications that could theoretically create the world's best astronaut.
Are computer viruses alive?
1/25/2011
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Duration: 30:12

Computer viruses can permanently damage the files of unprepared computer users, but does their behavior mean that they are living entities? Join Robert and Julie as they explore the similarities between organic life and the behavior of computer viruses.
The Life Aquatic
1/20/2011
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Duration: 35:22

The oceans cover the majority of Earth's surface -- that's quite a bit of potential real estate. But what would it be like to live as an underwater denizen? Can people even do it safely? Tune in as Julie and Robert fill you in on life beneath the waves.
The Future of Pain
1/18/2011
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Duration: 29:44

Pain is a fundamental sensations. While it is by no means pleasant, it is certainly useful. In this podcast, Robert and Julie look at the newest scientific research and experimentation designed to exploit the biological responses to pain.
Inception: I Dream of Science
1/13/2011
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Duration: 39:31

Modern science still hasn't completely figured out what purpose dreams. In this podcast, Julie and Robert tackle the mysterious realm of dreams. Tune in to learn more about the nature of dreams and the way dreams relate to your waking life.
Junkies of the Animal Kingdom
1/11/2011
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Duration: 42:04

Human beings aren't the only organisms with a predilection for mind-altering substances. In fact, the natural world is filled with bingers and boozers. Listen in and learn more about junkie animals.
Solar Sail Hobos Ride the Laser
1/6/2011
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Duration: 33:19

NASA has been experimenting with solar sails that could become the future of spaceflight. But how do they work, exactly? Tune in as Julie and Robert break down the science of solar sails in this podcast.
Beyond Human: Accessorize!
1/4/2011
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Duration: 37:11

It's no secret that humanity's strong suit is making tools -- we certainly don't have the best physical adaptations for swimming or flying. But could we use technology to mimic the superior traits of other organisms? Tune in and find out.
Is your gut a genius?
12/30/2010
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Duration: 29:22

Each week, you can count on Robert and Julie to blow your mind with the latest -- and strangest -- stories from the world of science. Tune in and learn more in this episode.
Fine Young Cannibals
12/28/2010
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Duration: 43:43

Each week, you can count on Robert and Julie to blow your mind with the latest -- and strangest -- stories from the world of science. Tune in and learn more in this episode.
Life on the 500th Floor
12/23/2010
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Duration: 40:48

By 2050, experts believe approximately two-thirds of the world's population will live in cities. How will this urbanization change life for individuals, and how will it affect the world? Listen in and learn more about life on the 500th floor.
The Rock Star Weirdo Lives of Scientists
12/21/2010
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Duration: 30:02

It's no secret that genius and eccentricity are related, but scientists can be downright weird. In this episode, Julie and Robert explore the bizarre lives of history's greatest scientists. Tune in to learn more about clairvoyant dwarves, Tesla and more.
Ladies' Night on Planet Earth
12/16/2010
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Duration: 32:01

James Brown said that "it's a man's world," but he may have changed his tune if he'd seen the recent studies on gender and evolution. In this podcast, Julie and Robert ask what makes a person male or female -- and why the days of males may be numbered.
The Overview Effect: Tripping Out in Space
12/14/2010
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Duration: 31:43

Does life in space permanently alter an astronaut's mind? Join Robert and Julie as they analyze the physical and mental changes human beings experience in outer space, including the overview effect.
If a tree falls in a forest, does it make a sound?
12/9/2010
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Duration: 26:29

If a tree falls in an empty forest, does it make a sound? Originally this question was made for meditative purposes, but answering the question incorporates several fascinating ideas about human perception and psychology. Tune in to learn more.
Probing Questions About Alien Abduction
12/7/2010
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Duration: 35:32

Why are so many people convinced that they were abducted by aliens? In this episode, Julie and Robert explore the history of alleged abductions, along with the scientific explanations for the experiences of the witnesses. Tune in to learn more.
Can music rebuild my brain?
12/2/2010
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Duration: 31:34

It's been said that music has the power to soothe savage beasts, but what scientific impact does music have on humans? In this episode, Julie and Robert explore the influence of music on human brain cells -- and whether it can actually rebuild your brain.
Evolutionary Hangover
11/30/2010
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Duration: 32:32

Vestigial traits are common in animals across the globe, but why? In this episode, Julie and Robert take a look at the genetic leftovers that lost their usefulness during evolution. Tune in to learn more about evolution, atavism and vestigial traits.
Stuff to Literally Blow Your Mind
11/25/2010
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Duration: 21:36

Each week, Robert and Julie bring you fascinating, mind-blowing stories about the strangest things in the natural world -- but how could your mind literally be blown? Tune in and learn more in this podcast.
Has science explained life after death?
11/23/2010
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Duration: 32:39

Humans have believed in the soul for millennia, and the evolution of science hasn't stopped the search for ghosts and the soul. In fact, modern scientists still search for proof of life after death. Tune in to learn more about the latest research.
You're So Vain, Earthlings
11/19/2010
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Duration: 30:02

How do individuals relate to reality? How has humanity attempted to interpret its position in the universe? From navel-gazing to the geocentric universe and beyond, the search for humanity's place has become a long -- and mind-blowing -- enterprise.
Alien Etiquette 101
11/16/2010
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Duration: 35:39

People from different cultures often interpret gestures and etiquette differently, and this can lead to serious misunderstandings. So how should humans interact with extraterrestrials? Tune in as Julie and Robert explore the nuances of alien etiquette.
The Podcast that Turns People Inside Out
11/11/2010
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Duration: 27:30

Inspired by Robert's childhood fear of being turned completely inside out, our podcasters attempt to answer the age-old question: Can people really be turned inside out? Listen in and learn more in this episode.
Shush! The Creatures are Sleeping
11/9/2010
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Duration: 38:37

Not all animals need the same amount of sleep. Some people get by on five hours a day, while other animals (cats, for instance) can easily sleep upward of ten hours a day. So what is sleep, and why don't animals need the same amount? Tune in to find out.
Man Vs. Flu
11/4/2010
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Duration: 28:55

Influenza is a virus that causes the flu, and it shares a long, lethal history with the human race. In this episode, Robert and Allison explore what's made the flu such a successful disease, and what you can do to avoid an infection.
Cuddling up to the Cuttlefish
11/2/2010
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Duration: 25:03

Would you like a pet that can change its appearance and create decoys from ink? What if it also shot through the water via jet propulsion? Then the cuttlefish is the pet for you. Listen in as Robert and Allison take a closer look at the cuttlefish.
Into the Graveyard
10/28/2010
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Duration: 27:15

Many people find graveyards creepy, but what makes them so unsettling and spooky? In this special Halloween episode, Robert and Allison take you into the graveyard as they explore our cultural fears about cemetaries and share a little graveyard science.
Hanging with Hawking
10/26/2010
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Duration: 23:14

Stephen Hawking is one of the world's most famous physicists, but why is he so famous? In this episode, Allison and Robert take a closer look at the fascinating career of Stephen Hawking.
Mad Scientists: Frankenstein and the Fly
10/21/2010
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Duration: 29:34

Today mad scientists are common in fiction, and they appear in everything from comedies to science fiction. But they're also relatively recent. What made them so popular? Tune in and learn more about mad scientists in the public consciousness.
How Military Snipers Work
10/19/2010
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Duration: 30:39

Military snipers use sophisticated technology and specialized techniques to wreak tremendous damage on enemy forces. But how do they work? In this episode, Robert and Allison break down the science behind snipers.
We Love the Periodic Table
10/14/2010
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Duration: 30:08

The periodic table is an invaluable tool for scientists across the planet -- but how does it work? In this episode, Allison and Robert explore the creation of the periodic table. Tune in to learn more about the history and structure of the periodic table.
Science vs. Monsters!
10/12/2010
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Duration: 28:48

For thousands of years people across the world have frightened (and entertained) each other by swapping monster tales, but how do these monsters hold up in the eyes of science? In this podcast, Robert and Allison break down the science behind monsters.
Monarchs Head for the Border
10/7/2010
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Duration: 20:21

Each year, monarch butterflies fly south across North America, returning north in the spring. Normally the butterflies would never live long enough to complete the journey -- yet these are not normal times. Tune in to learn more about monarch butterflies.
Noise Pollution: Pipe Down, People!
10/5/2010
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Duration: 28:50

Like any other form of pollution, loud noises can seriously affect your health over time -- and that's just the beginning. As Robert and Allison break down the science behind noise, they also explain how noise pollution affects the natural world.
Flat Stanley Across the 11th Dimension
9/30/2010
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Duration: 20:50

The world famous globetrotter Flat Stanley is used to encourage literacy in children. Since Flat Stanley is two-dimensional, he's a perfect jumping-off point for Robert and Allison's exploration of string theory and our multidimensional universe.
Will California fall into the ocean?
9/28/2010
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Duration: 21:42

Earthquakes are an inevitable part of living on Earth, and some places are far more prone to earthquakes than others. In this episode, Robert and Allison tackle the idea that California might sink into the ocean due to the San Andreas fault.
The Scientific Method
9/23/2010
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Duration: 26:59

Nowadays most people have heard of the scientific method, but what exactly is it? More importantly, how does it work? In the second segment of this two-part series, Robert and Allison explore the history (and application) of the scientific method.
A Thing Called Science
9/21/2010
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Duration: 17:42

Civilization relies on science and couldn't exist without it -- but what exactly is science? In this episode, Allison and Robert explore the definition of science, from the questions it can tackle to the methods scientists use in their experiments.
Altruism is Alive and Well
9/16/2010
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Duration: 28:49

If a person helps someone else without receiving an award, then that person has committed an act of altruism. Or have they? In this episode, Robert and Allison explore the science behind altruism in humans and other animals.
What did that bacterium say?
9/14/2010
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Duration: 25:28

Bacterial life is one of the most hardy life forms on Earth. But the impressive talents of bacteria aren't limited to durability. Tune in to learn more about the strange bacterial ability to sense quorums and communicate with other bacteria.
The Wow Signal
9/9/2010
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Duration: 19:09

In 1997, researchers at Ohio State University detected an extraordinary signal from space. Could it have been a message from another civilization? Tune in as Allison and Robert break down the science behind the search for extraterrestrial intelligence.
Packing for Mars with Mary Roach
9/7/2010
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Duration: 19:34

As a science writer, Mary Roach has penned books on everything from cadavers to astronauts. In this episode, Allison and Robert interview Mary Roach about the future of space exploration. Listen in to learn what you'll need to pack for a trip to Mars.
Emoticons Saved My Life
9/2/2010
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Duration: 26:23

An emoticon is a series of punctuation marks used to draw a picture and convey an emotion. But how did these emoticons come about, and why do they seem so universal? In this podcast, Robert and Allison explore the science behind facial expressions.
Mulling over Maggots
8/31/2010
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Duration: 28:44

Maggots have a distinctive (and, some would say, repulsive) appearance. But throughout history doctors and healers have used maggots to treat ulcers and wounds. In this episode, Allison and Robert take a closer look at maggots and maggot therapy.
Latching on to Leeches
8/26/2010
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Duration: 29:11

There are hundreds of different leech species, but they're all built for one thing: sucking blood. Join Allison and Robert as they take a closer look at the leech's adaptations, and the role these parasites may play in modern medicine.
Drilling for Offshore Oil
8/24/2010
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Duration: 23:22

Last week, Robert and Allison broke down the science behind oil exploration. In the second segment of this series, the hosts explore the process of drilling for oil once a potential well is found. Tune in to learn more about drilling for oil.
In Search of Offshore Oil
8/19/2010
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Duration: 22:37

In an economy driven by fossil fuels, oil exploration is big business -- but how do scientists actually find oil? In this podcast, Allison and Robert break down the techniques and technologies used to find offshore oil.
Are you mosquito bait?
8/17/2010
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Duration: 24:03

Why do mosquitoes love biting certain people (and ignore others)? In this podcast, Robert and Allison take a closer look at the science behind mosquito bait. Tune in and learn why insects love -- or loathe -- biting you.
Prehistoric Monsters of the Deep
8/12/2010
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Duration: 34:06

The Blue Whale is the largest living animal on Earth, but it isn't the first gigantic sea creature. In this podcast, Allison and Robert examine the prehistoric dinosaurs of the deep. Tune in to learn more about real-life sea monsters.
Are lefties better at sports?
8/10/2010
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Duration: 23:27

Roughly 10 percent of the human population is left-handed. This minority lives in a right-handed world, and many tools are made for right-handed people. But do left-handed people have any advantages over the righties? Tune in and find out.
Evolution in Action
8/5/2010
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Duration: 18:06

Charles Darwin's revolutionary study of evolution isn't even two hundred years old yet. In terms of evolutionary processes, this is a miniscule amount of time. Yet is is possible to observe evolution within our lifetimes? Tune in and find out.
Diamonds Are a Scientist's Best Friend
8/3/2010
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Duration: 19:48

Although diamonds are incredibly expensive, they're only lumps of concentrated carbon (one of the most common elements on earth). So how do these diamonds form -- and how big can they grow? Tune in and learn why the largest diamonds may be in space.
The Smelly Science of Perfume
7/29/2010
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Duration: 21:32

Designed entirely to cater to the sense of smell, perfume occupies a unique position in fashion and society. But when we catch the whiff of a passing perfume enthusiast, what are we really smelling? Tune in and learn more about the science behind perfume.
Smells like Science
7/27/2010
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Duration: 27:59

Smells surround us: Astronauts say that space and the moon possess unique aromas, and many animals also have their own unmistakable odors. In this episode, Robert and Allison explore the science behind smells, from space to your local cow pasture.
The Great Space Elevator
7/22/2010
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Duration: 23:49

It's no secret that space shuttles need a vast amount of fuel to escape the pull of gravity -- but are space elevators a better alternative? In this episode, Robert and Allison explore the merits of literally building an elevator from Earth into space.
The Kardashev Scale
7/20/2010
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Duration: 20:57

When Nicolai Kardashev began searching the universe for intelligent life, he built an energy-based scale to measure the progress of any given civilization. Tune in to discover how this scale works -- and why humanity's place on the scale may surprise you.
What is the smart grid?
7/15/2010
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Duration: 24:50

Think of the U.S. power grid as one gigantic (and outdated) machine. This system works relatively well, but it has a lot of drawbacks. In this episode, Robert and Allison take a look at smart grid technology and how it may just save the U.S. power system.
Growing a Green Roof
7/13/2010
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Duration: 24:41

Are you stuck in the city, sweltering under the summer heat and missing the trees and grass of the natural world? Then why not transform the nearest rooftop into a garden or a park? Tune in and learn more about green roofs in this podcast.
Prosthetic Limbs
7/8/2010
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Duration: 24:54

Prosthetic limbs have been around for thousands of years, but could they eventually become superior to organic appendages? In this episode, Allison and Robert break down the latest -- and future -- developments in prosthetic technology.
Predators, Reapers and Robotic War
7/6/2010
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Duration: 26:18

We know that robots are taking over more and more tasks traditionally performed by humans -- but assembling cars isn't the same thing as waging war. In this episode, Allison and Robert explore the current unmanned robots used by the U.S. military.
World-Changing Science Experiments: Part Two
7/1/2010
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Duration: 16:39

In the second installment of Robert and Allison's two-part series on history's world-changing science experiments, your favorite science writers take a look at everything from primordial ooze to modern psychology. Tune in and learn more.
World-Changing Science Experiments: Part One
6/29/2010
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Duration: 17:49

Science experiments aren't just for high school students. In the first installment of this special two-part series, Allison and Robert take a look at some of history's most important science experiments. Tune in and learn more in this episode.
Science and Wine
6/24/2010
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Duration: 24:09

Is the sense of taste subjective? Why are some wines bad news for people with particular allergies? If you're anxious for the answers, never fear: In this episode, Allison and Robert take a look at science and wine.
Death on Ice
6/22/2010
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Duration: 21:20

Is it possible to freeze a body and bring it back to life? Through cryonics, scientists preserve bodies at extremely low temperatures, hoping to revive them in the future, when advanced technology may prolong their lives. Tune in and learn more.
Time Travel: Hey, Grandpa
6/17/2010
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Duration: 17:49

In the second episode of this two-part series, Robert and Allison check out the possibilities of travelling into the past. From wormholes to the grandfather paradox, there are many arguments for -- and against -- time travel. Tune in and learn more.
Time Travel: Hey, Future Self
6/15/2010
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Duration: 13:47

Everyone's familiar with the idea of time travel -- but how would it work? This week Robert and Allison explore time travel, and this episode focuses on traveling to the future. So tune in and learn why you should -- or shouldn't -- meet your future self.
Galactic Youngsters
6/10/2010
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Duration: 12:44

It's difficult -- some would say impossible -- to comprehend the sheer size of one galaxy, much less the universe. But how do these gargantuan galaxies form? Tune in as Allison and Robert break down the science behind the formation of galaxies.
Will aliens destroy us?
6/8/2010
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Duration: 15:00

In science fiction, aliens are usually either incredibly benevolent or incomprehensibly evil -- but how would real extraterrestrials behave? Learn more about aliens -- and why Stephen Hawking thinks they may destroy us -- in this podcast.
What's the dirt on composting?
6/3/2010
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Duration: 25:39

If you're concerned about generating waste in your household, why not start composting? Breaking solid waste down with some help from microorganisms is a sure-fire way to decrease your waste, and it's easier than you might assume. Tune in and learn more.
Are robots alive?
6/1/2010
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Duration: 16:51

With each year, scientists are building increasingly complex robots, leading to one vital question: At what point does a robot become defined as a living thing, rather than a mechanical device? Tune in to learn more about living robots in this podcast.
Road Trip: FIRST Robotics
5/27/2010
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Duration: 19:25

In this episode, Robert and Allison take a road trip to the Georgia Dome, where they grab an exclusive look at the FIRST Robotics competition. Tune in and learn more about the world's largest grade-school robotics competition.
Birth of a Planet
5/25/2010
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Duration: 13:30

To most people, planets are one of the most familiar of astronomical objects. After all, we do live on one. But how do these massive spheres get their start? Tune in to learn more about the birth of planets -- including our own -- in this podcast.
A Star is Born
5/20/2010
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Duration: 14:31

Like most things in the universe, stars begin as particles floating around in massive clouds of dust and gas. But what forces these particles to coalesce and form a star? Tune in and learn more about the birth of stars in this podcast.
Why Science Fiction Matters
5/18/2010
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Duration: 32:57

Even people who don't care for science fiction know about the genre -- thousands of new science fiction stories come out every year. But why does science fiction matter? Tune in and learn the answer in this podcast.
Toilets in Space
5/13/2010
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Duration: 21:42

Every astronaut knows that life in space requires numerous adjustments -- after all, things just aren't the same without gravity. So how exactly does a toilet work in space? Learn more about the science behind space's supertoilets in this podcast.
Immunocontraception and You
5/11/2010
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Duration: 19:24

Immunocontraception is a humane type of birth control that's used to control wild animal populations. In this episode, Allison and Robert discuss the pros and cons of immunocontraceptives -- and whether they'll ever be used to control human reproduction.
Regenerate This!
5/6/2010
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Duration: 15:21

According to Richard J. Goss, "If there were no regeneration, there could be no life. If everything regenerated, then there could be no death." But how does this process work? Join Robert and Allison as they explore the science behind regeneration.
Save the Bats!
5/4/2010
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Duration: 17:46

As the only flying mammals, bats play unique roles in our world's ecology. Yet in caves across North America more than a million bats have fallen prey to a mysterious affliction known as white nose syndrome. Tune in and learn more in this podcast.
Death By Volcano
4/29/2010
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Duration: 24:48

People often think of volcanoes as conical mountains erupting ash, smoke and lava into the air. But how do they work? Why are they so dangerous? Listen in to learn more about volcanoes (and all the ways they can kill an unlucky bystander) in this podcast.
How old is that artifact in the window?
4/27/2010
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Duration: 18:06

Carbon dating is a way of determining the age of organic matter up to 50,000 years old. But how does it work? Listen in as Allison and Robert explore the uses of carbon dating, as well as the controversial artifacts dated by this method.
What drugs are astronauts on?
4/22/2010
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Duration: 18:02

Make no mistake: Space is a very hostile environment. Astronauts in orbit suffer from conditions caused by the lack of gravity, small living quarters and other factors. So how do these astronauts cope? Tune in to learn more about the drugs used in space.
The Virtues of Venom
4/20/2010
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Duration: 23:49

Sure, venom could kill you -- but it could also cure you. The medicinal use of venom dates back thousands of years and continues to the present day. Tune in as Allison and Robert break down the science behind venom and medicine in this podcast.
Tetris vs. PTSD
4/15/2010
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Duration: 19:57

Everyone knows that video games are entertaining -- but could they have therapeutical value? Tune in and learn how Tetris may help victims of post-traumatic stress syndrome.
Velociraptor Awareness Day
4/13/2010
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Duration: 14:00

Dinosaur appreciation days are few and far between -- but the Velociraptor is a special case. Listen in as Allison and Robert explore the amazing abilities and physiology of the Velociraptor in this podcast.
Black Hole Bonanza
4/8/2010
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Duration: 11:48

A black hole forms when a star's core collapses, increasing in density until its gravitational pull becomes too powerful for light to escape. This creates a singularity -- and it happens in less than a second. Learn more about black holes in this podcast.
Weapons that Changed the World
4/6/2010
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Duration: 18:18

Here's the crazy thing about war: It breeds innovation. Since the dawn of civilization, human beings have searched for ways to kill each other. Join Robert and Allison as they explore the weapons that changed the world, from the horse to nuclear weapons.
What can gravity do for you?
4/1/2010
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Duration: 22:01

Gravity is a pervasive and ambiguous force -- we still don't understand everything about it. Yet every physical act on our planet involves gravity. Join Allison and Robert as they explore exactly how gravity affects the average person in this podcast.
Book Sniffers and You
3/30/2010
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Duration: 11:29

You can learn a lot from a book's smell. For example, the books of heavy smokers tend to smell of smoke. When you smell a book, you're encountering more than 200 individual components combining to produce an olfactory fingerprint. Tune in to learn more.
5 Strange Things Written in Your Genes
3/25/2010
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Duration: 13:56

Genetic polymorphism describes a basic fact of human life -- that every set of genes is unique. However, scientists have been able to detect many physical traits from genetic markers. Tune in to learn more about five fascinating genetic markers.
Weighing the Human Soul
3/23/2010
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Duration: 14:28

In the early 1900s, Duncan Macdougall set out to prove the existence of the soul. By placing consumption patients on a scale as they died, he tried to find a difference between the weight of a person before and after death. Learn more in this podcast.
How To Get Lost in the Bermuda Triangle
3/18/2010
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Duration: 19:16

Stretching from Miami to Bermuda and Puerto Rico, the notorious Bermuda Triangle has a bad reputation for wrecking ships and planes. But how much of this legend is based on science? Tune in and learn more in this episode.
Can I survive a nuclear winter?
3/16/2010
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Duration: 23:25

In a nuclear war, the smoke, ash and other particulates swarming into the atmosphere could actually block the sun. This nuclear winter could obliterate life across the globe. Tune in as Robert and Allison give you the tips you'll need to survive.
Are you smarter than a dolphin?
3/11/2010
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Duration: 20:58

Dolphins are one of Earth's smartest animals. In fact, scientists still aren't sure exactly how smart a dolphin is in relation to the average human being. Join Robert and Allison as they break down the science behind dolphin intelligence in this podcast.
Why do whales beach themselves?
3/9/2010
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Duration: 20:30

When whales or other aquatic mammals wash onto the shore, they are usually unable to return to the sea without help. What exactly causes a whale to beach, and how can scientists prevent it? Tune in and learn more in this episode.
Running with Parasites
3/4/2010
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Duration: 15:31

Are you a fan of running outside without shoes? Many people enjoy walking barefoot, especially in warmer weather. Yet there's a dark side to the joy of a shoe-free life: parasites. Listen in and learn more about parasites in this episode.
How Hurricane Killing Works
3/2/2010
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Duration: 14:06

When hurricanes hit land, they can cause enormous damage over a short span of time -- but how can scientists stop these roving natural disasters? The answers may surprise you. Listen in and learn more in this episode.
Topsy Rides the Lighting
2/25/2010
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Duration: 08:04

What do Edison, Tesla and an unfortunate elephant named Topsy have in common? They were all involved in "The War of Currents," an ongoing battle over the standardization of electricity. Tune in and learn more about Topsy's fate in this episode.
Fight Fire with Fire
2/23/2010
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Duration: 09:53

We've all heard the saying "fight fire with fire," but could it actually work? Tune in as Robert and Allison break down the ways in which firefighters actually do use fire and explosives to fight fires in this episode.
Those Crazy Komodos
2/18/2010
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Duration: 15:57

Located in Indonesia, Komodo dragons are one of nature's fiercest living reptiles. They're also the world's largest lizard. Tune in as Robert and Allison investigate the unique lifestyle -- and brutal dining habits -- of the Komodo dragon.
How well do you know the T. Rex?
2/16/2010
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Duration: 16:46

The Tyrannosaurus rex is one of history's most well-known, feared and misunderstood dinosaurs. Children often learn that this dinosaur was a ferocious predator ... but this might not be the whole story. Listen in and learn more in this podcast.
What exactly is a gene bank?
2/11/2010
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Duration: 15:46

A gene bank is a repository used to preserve genetic material for the future. Gene banks are not a modern concept -- the idea dates back thousands of years. Tune in as Allison and Robert explore gene banks, from Noah's Ark to the Doomsday Vault.
What can blood spatter tell us?
2/9/2010
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Duration: 09:31

To forensic scientists, a bloodstain is more than just a grisly ornament at a crime scene -- so what exactly do they do with it? Turn in and learn more about bloodstain pattern analysis in this episode.
Dinner in Space!
2/4/2010
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Duration: 16:15

Let's say you're an astronaut: Each day you wake up, conduct research and make adjustments to your orbit. Eventually you grab some chow -- but what kind of food do you eat, and why? Join Robert and Allison as they explore the science behind space food.
Do I live next to a Grow House?
2/2/2010
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Duration: 17:39

When drug dealers want to grow marijuana without getting caught, they often set up a "grow house." These buildings look like any other building, and they often fool bystanders. Tune in and learn how to tell if your neighbors are running a grow house.
Are we better off in the dark?
1/28/2010
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Duration: 17:33

Most city dwellers are familiar with contaminated water and smoggy air -- but have you heard of light pollution? Listen in as Allison and Robert explore the effects of light pollution -- and whether humans are better off in the dark.
Mining the Moon
1/26/2010
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Duration: 12:30

Since helium-3 can be used to power the fusion reactors of the future, it may be one of the world's most important fuel sources. It's rare on Earth, but experts believe the moon may have an abundant supply. Tune in and learn more about moon mining.
How Exploding Lakes Work
1/21/2010
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Duration: 13:43

During 1986, an unusual thing happened in Cameroon: Lake Nyos exploded, expelling a toxic cloud that killed roughly 1700 people. How could this happen? More importantly, could it happen again? Learn more about exploding lakes in this episode.
How Fighting Asteroids Works
1/12/2010
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Duration: 17:41

Asteroid impacts are inevitable. As they hurtle toward Earth, experts race against the clock to build an effective asteroid deterrent. Will they succeed in time? Learn more about asteroid fighters -- and their plans to save the world -- in this episode.
Amazing Infestations!
1/12/2010
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Duration: 24:35

From hordes of caterpillars in Liberia to the Australian mice plagues, infestations can occur in almost any part of the world. Join Robert and Allison as they explore some of the world's largest -- and strangest -- infestations.

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