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The Story Collider

607 EpisodesProduced by Story Collider, Inc.Website

Whether we wear a lab coat or haven't seen a test tube since grade school, science is shaping all of our lives. And that means we all have science stories to tell. Every year, we host dozens of live shows all over the country, featuring all kinds of storytellers - researchers, doctors, and engineers… read more

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Farewell

February 22nd, 2024

0:39

An important message from RadioPublic

Checking On You: Stories about concern for others

March 15th, 2024

30:22

There are many ways you can ask someone “Are you okay?” In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers navigate the complexities of human connection and how we show concern for those we love.

Part 1: Dave Kalema keeps …

Pi vs. Pie: Stories about Pi Day

March 8th, 2024

30:39

Happy Pi Day! In honor of upcoming Pi Day on March 14, this week’s episode features two stories about the nerdy celebration. Both of our storytellers will whisk you away on a journey filled with equal parts math and …

Temperature Rising: Stories about forest fires

March 1st, 2024

25:00

Wildfires can impact so many things, from ecosystems to the air quality, to even the economy. But in this week’s episode, both of our storytellers take a look at the more personal impacts of forest fires.

Part 1: In …

Am I The Problem?: Stories from CZI's Rare As One Project

February 23rd, 2024

30:18

The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI)'s Rare As One Network brings together rare disease patients and advocates in their quest for cures. Both of this week’s stories are from Rare As One grantees who are sharing their …

Love Story: Stories with a happily ever after

February 16th, 2024

24:39

In honor of Valentine’s Day, this week’s episode features two stories where love finds a way.

Part 1: Scientist Bruce Hungate yearns to find someone who cares about the tiny details as much as he does.

Part 2: Science …

Peer Review: Stories about other people's opinions

February 9th, 2024

26:23

In science, peer review plays a critical role in figuring out if research is good enough, robust enough. In this week’s episode, both of our …

Postpartum: Stories about postpartum depression

February 2nd, 2024

29:51

CDC research shows about 1 in 8 women with a recent live birth experience symptoms of postpartum depression. In this week’s episode, our storytellers …

Faith: Stories about religion and science

January 26th, 2024

39:48

Throughout history, the relationship between faith and science has been complex – a delicate interplay between the spiritual and the empirical, where questions of existence, purpose, and the unknown have often …

Failure: Stories about failing in science

January 19th, 2024

28:11

In science, failure is as important as success. In this week’s episode, our storytellers share times when they failed at science or science failed them.

Part 1: Samuel Scarpino is convinced that the paper he wrote about …

Hallucinogenics: Stories about tripping

January 12th, 2024

30:05

In this week’s episode, our storytellers delve into their personal encounters with psychedelics—moments where reality became a blur, perceptions began to shift, and the boundaries of consciousness expanded.

Part 1: While …

Life and Death: Stories about our relationship with death

January 5th, 2024

34:32

Happy New Year! In this week’s episode, our storytellers ponder the big questions about life and death.

Part 1: When Shannon Turner’s high school …

Fresh Start: Stories about new beginnings

December 29th, 2023

34:35

As we say goodbye to 2023 and ring in the New Year, this week’s classic episode is all about the novel.

Part 1: Feeling isolated in her new job as a …

A Child Is Born: Stories about labor and delivery

December 22nd, 2023

33:57

Happy Holidays! In this week’s classic episode, both stories explore the miracle of life.

Part 1: An expert in oxytocin, the hormone released during …

DIY: Stories about doing science oneself

December 15th, 2023

28:09

Science doesn’t always have to be in fancy labs with million dollar equipment and shiny beakers. Sometimes, science can be a bit more DIY. In this …

Bringing My Whole Self: Stories about being yourself in science

December 8th, 2023

27:06

In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers strive to be their authentic selves in academia.

Part 1: Raul Fernandez dreamed of going to …

Active Participant: Stories about being a research subject

December 1st, 2023

26:36

Research participants are sometimes the most important part of science. Without participants there is no data, and without data there are no findings. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers become an active …

Reality: Stories about one's perception of real life

November 24th, 2023

31:20

Everyone thinks they know the difference between fantasy and reality. But do we? In this week’s episode, our storytellers struggle to keep a firm grasp on the real world.

Part 1: Shawn Musgrave's seizures make him feel …

Career Path: Stories about career journeys

November 17th, 2023

25:05

While some people have straight forward career paths, in this week’s episode, both of our storyteller’s career paths are a little more complex.

Part 1: Witnessing mistakes health care professionals made after her dad …

Shame: Stories about things we hide

November 10th, 2023

39:33

In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers confront their secret shames and learn to accept themselves, warts and all.

Part 1: Comedian Amy Veltman doesn’t want to acknowledge her embarrassing gastrointestinal …

Politics: Stories about the political side of science

November 3rd, 2023

31:32

While many people believe science and politics should be kept separate, politics is deeply ingrained in science. Be it through funding agendas, …

Paradoxical: Stories about thoughts we shouldn't have

October 27th, 2023

33:42

We all have thoughts that can be seemingly absurd or self-contradictory. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers reckon with their conflicting thoughts.

Part 1: After surviving breast cancer, comedian Ophira …

Anxious Mind: Stories about troublesome worries

October 20th, 2023

34:15

Anyone can feel anxious, but when anxiety starts impacting your life, it can be problematic. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers confront their worries.

Part 1: Devon Kodzis thought they had their anxiety …

Helping Hand: Stories about the kindness of strangers

October 13th, 2023

23:09

Whether it’s a completing a lab, writing up a grant proposal, or just getting through everyday life, everyone needs a little help. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers share moments where they lent or …

New Normal: Stories about finding a new way of being

October 6th, 2023

30:53

In science, we’re constantly learning, adapting and evolving. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers need to reckon with a new normal.

Part …

Reclamation: Stories about setting something right

September 29th, 2023

30:45

We all know life isn’t perfect, but sometimes we get a do-over. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers get a chance to redeem a part of their past.

Part 1: When Barbara Todd isn’t with her dad when he passes, …

Mortified: Stories about embarrassing situations

September 22nd, 2023

30:40

In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers experience the most humbling of human experiences: being embarrassed.

Part 1: Emma Yarbrough feels in …

Searching: Stories about trying to find something

September 15th, 2023

34:21

If you think about it, science is one big act of searching. There's always something to look for, whether it's the answer to a hypothesis or the next …

Food Science: Stories about things we eat

September 8th, 2023

28:45

As famed Iron Chef Alton Brown once said: “Everything in food is science”. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers discover something about themselves through the science of food.

Part 1: Corn researcher Katie …

Break Ups: Stories about the end of a relationship

September 1st, 2023

32:39

Matters of the heart aren’t usually associated with science, but in this week’s episode, both of our storytellers turn to science to cope with heartbreak.

Part 1: When Anna Peterson gets dumped she takes a job with two …

Uncharted: Stories about disability in STEM

August 25th, 2023

29:41

People with disabilities are underrepresented in STEM fields, and all too often, they face isolation and ableism in academia. In this week’s episode, …

Job Search: Stories about finding employment

August 18th, 2023

34:26

Searching for a job in science or in another field is often a daunting task with plenty of challenges, both expected and unexpected. In this week’s episode, each of our storytellers embark on a job hunt that is anything …

Burn Out: Stories about mental exhaustion

August 11th, 2023

29:50

According to the APA Dictionary of Psychology, burnout is defined as “physical, emotional or mental exhaustion, accompanied by decreased motivation, …

Overthinking: Stories about repetitive thoughts

August 4th, 2023

33:05

If you’ve ever found yourself thinking about a problem or a situation over and over again, you might be an over-thinker like our storytellers. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers think about something too …

Fish Out of Water: Stories about feeling out of one's element

July 28th, 2023

28:32

When life throws you into unusual or unfamiliar situations, it’s hard to feel comfortable or confident in your skills. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers grapple with feeling like a fish out of water.

Part …

Standing Your Ground: Stories about sticking up for yourself

July 21st, 2023

31:48

Confrontation can be scary and speaking up for yourself takes courage. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers find their confidence to fight for themselves.

Part 1: When Luis Melo doesn’t see his name on a …

POV: Stories about others' point of view

July 14th, 2023

32:11

July is Disability Pride month, which is all about empowerment and visibility for those with disabilities. In honor of Disability Pride month, this …

Resurfacing: Stories about coming back to oneself

July 7th, 2023

30:17

Whether you’re in the lab or the field, not feeling like yourself sucks. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers find a way to feel like …

Extracurricular Activities: Stories about life outside of science

June 30th, 2023

31:06

Extracurricular activities aren’t just to look good on college applications. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers explore their passions …

Rich Tackenberg: A psychic in West Hollywood

June 23rd, 2023

33:16

In this week’s episode, we take a look at the mysterious and deceptive world of psychics.

Part 1: Rich Tackenberg is skeptical when a psychic tells him there’s something wrong with his car.

Part 2: Science journalist …

Fatherhood: Stories about dads

June 16th, 2023

30:11

In honor of Father’s Day, this week’s episode is an ode to all the dads out there who are doing their best.

Part 1: Pediatrician Ken Haller goes off script when a father comes into the exam room with his young son.

Part …

Unpleasant Sensations: Stories about being uncomfortable

June 9th, 2023

28:54

Science and the natural world offer us opportunities to experience a range of sensations -- some of them deeply unpleasant. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers share stories about some less than pleasant …

Systematic Errors: Stories about failed experiments

June 2nd, 2023

31:38

Many factors can lead to a failed experiment -- human errors, errors in measurement, and sometimes just random errors. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers share tales of when their experiments didn’t go as …

Initiations: Stories about proving oneself

May 26th, 2023

34:15

Whether it’s a new school or new job, there’s often some sort of “try out” to see if you cut the mustard. In this week’s episode, both of our …

Learning: Stories from our workshops

May 19th, 2023

33:09

In this week’s episode, we are highlighting two storytellers from The Story Collider's Education Program and the stories they crafted as a result of …

Motherhood: Stories about becoming a mom

May 12th, 2023

32:29

In honor of Mother’s Day, this week we’re sharing stories about the journey to becoming a mom.

Part 1: Discouraged by the medical approach to …

Expertise: Stories about knowledge

May 5th, 2023

33:17

Experts are a dime a dozen, but true expertise is hard to come by. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers – who shared their stories at our annual Proton Prom fundraiser this week – struggle with finding the …

Skin Deep: Stories about racial disparities

April 28th, 2023

32:16

In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers share stories about the problems of finding representation of diverse skin tones in science and medicine.

Part 1: While preparing for a lecture, Stacy Vasquez finds a …

Against the Odds: Stories from CZI's Rare As One Project

April 21st, 2023

35:10

In this week’s episode, both of our stories are from CZI's Rare As One Project. CZI’s Rare As One Project brings together rare disease patients and advocates in their quest for cures. Both of this week’s stories are …

Fear in the Lab: Stories about confronting danger

April 14th, 2023

34:16

You can tell a lot about a person by how they react in the face of danger. In this week’s classic episode, both of our storytellers must find the courage to brave the perils of life and the lab.

Part 1: Neuroscientist …

Observations: Stories about noticing the details

April 7th, 2023

40:15

Making insightful observations is a key component of being a good scientist, or journalist, or filmmaker. Come to think of it, many careers rely on …

Mariah Wilson: Anything To See A Forest Elephant

March 31st, 2023

30:19

In this week’s episode, we get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to film a wildlife conservation documentary.

Part 1: Documentary producer Mariah Wilson is days into making her film about the endangered Forest …

Road Not Taken: Stories about what could have been

March 24th, 2023

30:15

In science it’s completely normal to wonder what would happen if you altered one variable or another – that’s what you do when you test a hypothesis …

Lies: Stories about playing along

March 17th, 2023

35:08

There’s a ton of reasons to lie, but experts have found that lies are most beneficial when they’re not selfish. In this week’s episode, both our storytellers do their best to play along for the sake of others.

Part 1:

Community: Stories about finding a place to belong

March 10th, 2023

27:13

Finding community within science can be a challenge. In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers struggle with feeling out of place in science.

Part 1: After his mentor and chemistry teacher uncle is murdered, André …

Dogs: Stories about our furry friends

March 3rd, 2023

35:02

In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers share tales of man’s best friend, more scientifically known as canines.

Part 1: Dog trainer Chris Brown needs to up his skills when he adopts a former bait dog named …

Katie Moriarty: The Mystical Wolverine

February 24th, 2023

29:46

In this week’s episode, we learn all about the largest land-dwelling species of the family Mustelidae, the wolverine, and why they’re so special.

Part …

Discovery: Stories about uncovering something new

February 17th, 2023

32:15

In this week’s classic Story Collider episode, both our stories are about the thrill of exploration and discovering something new.

Part 1: Ecologist …

In the Name of Love: Stories about the romantic side of science

February 10th, 2023

27:37

While it might not have been until the 1940s that social scientists came up with tools to measure love, it is a lot more scientific than you might …

Extra Mile: Stories about going over and above

February 3rd, 2023

35:48

If you've thought that you've ever gone above what is expected in your life, you haven't heard this week's stories. In this week’s episode, both our storytellers give new meaning to going the extra mile.

Part 1: Jack …

Volunteered: Stories about unwanted jobs

January 27th, 2023

27:23

In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers share times where they got stuck with jobs they never signed up for.

Part 1: Ted Olds finds himself …

Evolution: Stories about our changing relationship with science

January 20th, 2023

23:47

In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers explore their ever changing relationships with science over the course of their lives.

Part 1: All throughout his life, Chris Wade has a love-hate relationship with …

Misinterpretation: Stories about misreading the situation

January 13th, 2023

26:44

To err is human, even if you’re a scientist. In this week’s episode, both storytellers share moments about a time when they got things a bit wrong.

Part 1: As a newly minted postdoc, Eric Jankowski has the perfect …

Trial and Error: Stories about problem solving

January 6th, 2023

30:19

The new year is the time to try something new and in this week’s episode, both our storytellers approach their scientific problems in the most science-y way possible – through trial and error. It’s also how Story …

Sport Science: Stories about the athletic side of science

December 30th, 2022

35:18

In this week’s episode, both our storytellers share stories about the science-y side of sports and physical recreation.

Part 1: Daniel Engber risks derailing his PhD by constant daydreaming, until his neuroscience …

The Road to Science: Stories about winding paths to science

December 23rd, 2022

37:55

The journey to science is rarely straightforward and clear cut. In this week’s episode, both our storytellers share their tales of how they came to science.

Part 1: With her truck stuck in the mud in the Serengeti, Aerin …

Flora: Stories from the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology

December 16th, 2022

33:03

Without plants, we wouldn’t have air to breathe, and we also wouldn’t have these great stories inspired by the leafy green vegetation. This week’s …

Body Image: Stories about physical appearance

December 9th, 2022

31:54

In this week’s episode, both our stories are about how we see our bodies and the often complex relationship we have with them.

Part 1: With the looming possibility of a double mastectomy, Connie Henderson considers her …

All-Star: Stories from our All-Star Slam challengers

December 2nd, 2022

38:59

In the lead up to our special Story Collider All-Star Slam on December 6, 2022, we’re featuring two past stories from our challengers on this week’s …

Unlikely Paths: Stories from the Institute for Genomic Biology

November 25th, 2022

26:59

There’s rarely an expected path in science. This week’s episode, produced in partnership with The Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, …

Borders: Stories about divisions

November 18th, 2022

32:29

In this week’s episode, both our storytellers explore the divisions and limits that influence how we understand and operate in the world and in science.

Part 1: César Nufio's childhood experience as a Guatamalan …

Pain: Stories about unpleasant physical sensations

November 11th, 2022

31:00

Pain is really weird, scientifically speaking. It’s not just a message from injured tissues to be accepted at face value, but a complex experience that can be influenced by your brain. In this week’s episode, both our …

Gross Science: Stories about the yucky parts of science

November 4th, 2022

28:58

Science isn’t always pretty. In fact, more often than not it’s kinda disgusting. In this week’s episode, both our storytellers share stories of the less glamorous side of science.

Part 1: In order to score extra credit …

Expect the Unexpected: Stories about unforeseen circumstances

October 28th, 2022

29:16

Often, the hypotheses scientists make at the start of an experiment turn out to be correct. But sometimes, the results end up as something completely …

Childhood Dreams: Stories about youthful aspirations

October 21st, 2022

36:10

When you’re a kid, anything seems possible, whether it’s becoming an astronaut or a princess, or even convincing your parents to get you that puppy. In this week’s episode, both our storytellers set themselves some …

Calling: Stories about one's vocation

October 14th, 2022

35:03

Sometimes a job is just a way to make a living, but for our storytellers it is much more than that. In this week’s episode, our stories are about the …

Blending In: Stories about trying to belong

October 7th, 2022

29:35

In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers are scientists struggling to feel like they belong -- in and out of science.

Part 1: Neuroscientist Pardeep Singh feels more than out of place when he ends up as a …

Healing Power of Nature: Stories about finding peace outside

September 30th, 2022

26:23

Being in nature can have a powerful effect on our body and mind. It’s like a tonic for our well-being. Research has found that it reduces blood …

Overachieving: Stories about going above and beyond

September 23rd, 2022

35:29

This week we’re being the opposite of overachievers and re-running some classic Story Collider stories. In this week’s episode, both our storytellers …

Unconventional Friendships: Stories about unlikely pairs

September 16th, 2022

33:59

Science is filled with weird and wonderful bonds, like Bubbles the African Elephant and Bella the Black Labrador or potassium and argon. In this …

Strength in Numbers: Stories from Latasha Wright

September 9th, 2022

39:32

In this week’s episode, we have not one, but two stories from Story Collider’s board member Latasha Wright. This is her fourth story featured on our …

Phobias: Stories about fears

September 2nd, 2022

21:45

If someone tells you they’re not afraid of anything, they’re a liar. As the wise Nelson Mandela once said: "The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear." In this week’s episode, both …

Out of Place: Stories about feeling like an outsider

August 26th, 2022

32:51

Not to get too emo and Simple Plan lyrics on you, but have you ever felt out of place? Like somehow you just don't belong and no one understands you? Well, you’re not alone. In this week’s episode, both our storytellers …

Anomaly: Stories about rare diseases

August 19th, 2022

29:59

It's almost unbelievable that a change in something as small as a cell or a gene can lead to such big consequences. In this week’s episode, our stories are about rare childhood illnesses from different perspectives.

Part …

Taken Seriously: Stories about wanting respect

August 12th, 2022

32:31

While some people can fake it 'til they make it, others find that being taken seriously is a challenge, no matter what they do. In this week’s episode, both our storytellers share stories about trying to get the respect …

Story Collider En Español: Historias científicas en español

August 5th, 2022

35:19

En el episodio de esta semana, nuestros dos narradores comparten historias reales y personales sobre la ciencia en español.

Parte 1: Ro Moran nos …

Anxiety: Stories about feelings of worry

July 29th, 2022

26:52

As the great Greek philosopher Epictetus said: “Man is not worried by real problems so much as by his imagined anxieties about real problems”. It’s comforting to know that even in ancient Greece anxiety was a thing. In …

Good Intentions: Stories about meaning well

July 22nd, 2022

27:22

In this week’s episode, both our storytellers set out to do the right thing, but you know what they say about good intentions.

Part 1: During the pandemic, science journalist Maddie Bender signs up to be a contact tracer.

Anticipation: Stories about expectations

July 15th, 2022

36:10

In this week’s episode, both our storytellers will have you on the edge of your seat, shivering with anti…….ci……….PATION as they share stories of …

Healing: Stories about getting better

July 8th, 2022

39:05

In this week’s episode, both our storytellers share tales of getting back on their feet, both literally and figuratively.

Part 1: After Natalia Reagan gives up on her dreams of being a scientist, a devastating accident …

Bodies: Stories about anatomy

July 1st, 2022

33:09

The human body is fascinating and sometimes kinda gross. In this week’s episode both our storytellers are sharing tales of their blood, flesh, and bones.

Part 1: When Rachel Gross winds up with a chronic vaginal …

Tenacity: Stories about perseverance

June 24th, 2022

37:34

As the great Rocky Balboa once said about life: “it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it.” But in this week’s episode, both our storytellers share stories of their strength of will …

Father's Day: Stories about dads

June 17th, 2022

31:12

In honor of Father’s Day, this week’s episode features stories about dads. Also in honor of Father’s Day, here’s one of our favorite science Dad …

Prom Night: Stories from Proton Prom

June 10th, 2022

48:13

In this week’s episode we’re sharing some of the stories from our second annual fundraiser Proton Prom.

Part 1: Comedian Josh Gondelman is terrified when he gets a call that his father doesn’t remember there’s an ongoing …

Mysteries: Stories about enigmas

June 3rd, 2022

29:28

Usually mysteries are reserved for true crime podcasts and cop shows, but in this week’s episode, both our storytellers delve deep into a scientific puzzle in search of answers.

Part 1: Sabrina Imbler encounters strange …

Becoming: Stories about growing into yourself

May 27th, 2022

31:14

In this week’s episode, both our storytellers strive to realize their full, authentic selves in science.

Part 1: After being bullied for his sexuality …

Obsession: Stories about scientific fixations

May 20th, 2022

31:20

Science has a way of inspiring obsession. In this week’s episode, both our storytellers spiral deep into a personal all-consuming preoccupation.

Part 1: Curtis Chou becomes dogmatic in his quest to correct a person’s …

Proton Prom: Stories from our Proton Prom storytellers

May 13th, 2022

35:35

In anticipation of our upcoming Proton Prom, this week we’re re-airing the first Story Collider stories from two of the storytellers who will be …

DNA: Stories about genetics

May 6th, 2022

29:41

It’s almost magical how a combination of just A, C, T, and G entirely determine who we are. In this week’s episode both our storytellers look at how their genes impact their lives.

Part 1: Kristen Williams unexpectedly …

Fitting In: Stories about belonging

April 29th, 2022

30:16

In this week’s episode both our storytellers struggle to find their place.

Part 1: Heather Galindo studies her lab mates in hopes of understanding what it means to be a scientist.

Part 2: When Rob Ulrich leaves their …

Near Death Experiences: Stories about close calls

April 22nd, 2022

36:44

It’s not often people have a brush with death, but in this week’s episode both our storytellers are sharing stories about their near misses.

Part 1: When Abraham Norfleet’s dad asks him to clean an underwater pump on …

Passing the Test: Stories about making the grade

April 15th, 2022

28:58

In this week’s episode, both our storytellers are assessed and evaluated in ways they never expected.

Part 1: During a visit to her doctor, comedian Angel Yau finds herself answering “always” to every question on the …

Grief: Stories about dealing with loss

April 8th, 2022

42:07

In this week's episode, our storytellers' lives and careers in science are shaped by a great loss in their lives.

Part 1: When neuroscientist Macayla Donegan's partner is diagnosed with brain cancer, she's forced to make …

On the Spectrum: Stories about being neurodivergent

April 1st, 2022

28:17

In this week’s episode, both our storytellers share their experience with the autism spectrum. This episode is in honor of World Autism Awareness Day, April 2, which hopes to further people’s understanding and …

Science of Gender: Stories outside the binary

March 25th, 2022

33:07

In honor of International Transgender Visibility Day on March 31 this week’s episode celebrates storytellers who are transgender and gender nonconforming.

Part 1: Comedian Riley Silverman attempts to use science to …

Diabetes Awareness: Stories about dealing with diabetes

March 18th, 2022

34:07

In this week’s episode both our storytellers are sharing their experience with diabetes. More than 34.2 million Americans have diabetes, however, many people don’t know about the disease or that they even have it. This …

Pi Day: Stories about a very specific number

March 11th, 2022

25:47

In honor of Pi Day on March 14, this week’s episode features two stories about how a particular number has impacted the live’s of the storytellers.

The Miracle of Life: Stories about birth

March 4th, 2022

31:45

In this week’s episode both our storytellers share their experience of that beautiful and magical moment when new life is brought into this world.

Work: Stories about science as a job

February 25th, 2022

34:14

In this week’s episode both our storytellers give us a glimpse into how they make a living in science.

Part 1: After a gruelling residency shift, Natalia Khosla starts questioning how medical students are trained.

Part 2:

Unconventional Methods: Stories about finding a different way

February 18th, 2022

29:54

Wasn’t it Einstein who said: “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results”? In this week’s …

In & Out of Love With Science: Stories about relationships with STEM

February 11th, 2022

31:09

When you’re in love with science, it can be as messy and complex as any type of romantic relationship. In this week’s episode both our storytellers grapple with their complicated feelings for their discipline. Oh also, …

Representation: Stories about diversity in STEM

February 4th, 2022

46:39

In this week’s episode, both our storytellers examine the importance of diversity and representation in science – and not just in their research …

Validity: Stories about finding validation

January 28th, 2022

30:21

In this week’s episode, both our storytellers are seeking what all scientists are looking for: validity. If you want to check the reliability of this episode though, we suggest listening to it more than once.

Part 1:

Paradigm Shift: Stories about the moment when everything changes

January 21st, 2022

35:28

In this week’s episode, both our storytellers experience something that irrevocably alters their lives.

Part 1: Carl Zimmer learns he has a lot in common with bats hibernating in an abandoned mine.

Part 2: In the midst …

BUGS: Stories about creepy crawlies

January 14th, 2022

28:58

In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers had to deal with some minibeasts, AKA insects, and surprisingly neither of them moved or burned the …

Going Out: Stories about what makes the world scary

January 7th, 2022

34:54

This week, both of our storytellers are sharing stories about something that is pretty relatable at the moment — the challenges of leaving the house.

Part 1: As she goes blind due to a progressive eye disease, M. Leona …

A Magical Night: Stories about moments when science was magic

December 31st, 2021

33:37

In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers experience a magical night that changes everything. Here’s hoping that we all have a similarly magical night tonight, on New Year’s Eve!

Part 1: Growing up in Pakistan, …

A Little Help: Stories about needing support

December 24th, 2021

28:29

In this week’s episode, both of our storytellers are looking for a little help.

Part 1: Jitesh Jaggi keeps his struggle with trichotillomania a secret, until one day his wife catches him in the act.

Part 2: When Devan …

Respect: Stories about demanding to be seen

December 17th, 2021

31:09

This week, we present two stories about respect in science — how we get it and how we keep it.

Part 1: Meisa Salaita’s brand-new PhD in chemistry isn’t much help as she prepares to teach ninth-grade physics.

Part 2: Early …

Human Reproduction: Stories about how we learn about sex

December 10th, 2021

30:00

In this week’s episode, we share two stories about adventures in sex education.

Part 1: Kate Willet is frustrated by the gaps of information in her abstinence-based sex ed class.

Part 2: Sex ed instructor Charlie Blake …

Looking the Part: Stories about what a scientist looks like

December 3rd, 2021

38:36

This week we present two stories of people who struggled fitting in.

Part 1: After switching majors to anthropology, Edith Gonzalez struggles to dress …

Becoming a Scientist: Stories about what it means to be a scientist

November 26th, 2021

29:00

This week, we present two stories about the path to becoming a scientist and what makes a scientist a scientist.

Part 1: Andrea Jones-Rooy quits her job as a scientist in order to become a scientist.

Part 2: While …

Not Alone: Stories from CZI's Rare As One Project

November 19th, 2021

36:57

This week, both of our storytellers are navigating rare disease diagnoses and the feelings of fear, uncertainty, and loneliness that can often come along with them. This episode was produced in partnership with the Chan …

Inspiring: Stories about telling #MyScienceStory

November 12th, 2021

35:01

Please note: this episode’s stories contain discussion of suicide and mental illness.

This week, we present two stories about the people in our lives who inspired us not only to love science, but to find our place and …

Apprentices: Stories about mentors who shaped us

November 5th, 2021

29:59

In this week's stories, both of our storytellers are apprentices to mentors who have profound impacts on how they see the world, though in very …

What Now?: Stories about coping after loss

October 29th, 2021

41:35

This week we present two stories of people who had to figure out how to continue life after loss.

Part 1: Lawrence Green wakes up in a hospital room to find that he’s sustained devastating injuries in a motorcycle …

Hazards: Stories about encountering danger in the field

October 22nd, 2021

28:25

Part 1: In his early twenties, Jonathan Feakins goes above and beyond for his job as a West Nile virus mosquito technician

Part 2: While working as a …

Beauty of Science: Stories from Grow by Ginkgo

October 15th, 2021

28:44

Beauty is often considered a superficial quality, but it has tremendous power over us. This week’s episode, produced in partnership with Grow by Ginkgo, features two stories adapted from Grow's 2020 print issue on …

Stories of COVID-19: Uncertain Future

October 8th, 2021

30:54

This week, we conclude our final Stories of COVID-19 series with two stories about the lasting impacts of the pandemic. Both of these stories ask: Where do we go from here?

Part 1: Months after Howard Lieberman contracts …

Stories of COVID-19: Balance

October 1st, 2021

32:46

This week, we bring you two stories about the struggle to find balance during the COVID-19 pandemic, whether it’s as a scientist, a mother, or all of the above.

Part 1: Psychiatrist Xiaosi Gu studies COVID-19’s impact on …

Stories of COVID-19: Pandemic Love Stories

September 24th, 2021

30:39

In our fourth installment of this series, love conquers all, even the obstacles presented by COVID-19.

Part 1: Having planned to tie the knot in April 2020, Jared Waters finds himself separated from his fiancée by COVID …

Stories of COVID-19: Under the Same Roof

September 17th, 2021

30:09

This week, we bring you two stories about negotiating life under the same roof during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Part 1: When Gail Thomas moves in with her family during the pandemic, tensions brew between sisters.

Part 2:

Stories of COVID-19: Fear

September 10th, 2021

28:07

This week, in our final Stories of COVID-19 series, we bring you stories about managing the fear the pandemic introduced into our lives.

Part 1: A disagreement about COVID-19 precautions drives a wedge between Archy …

Stories of COVID-19: Before and After

September 3rd, 2021

33:37

This week, we introduce our third and final Stories of COVID-19 series, which will be airing for six weeks. We’ve decided to begin this series in the same way that we started our original Stories of COVID-19 series back …

Human Nature: Roots

August 27th, 2021

30:30

For the final episode of our Human Nature series, we, appropriately, go back to our roots.

Part 1: After a dangerous incident, Kalā Holiday begins to …

Human Nature: Stories about Humility

August 20th, 2021

31:09

In this week’s installment of Human Nature, our storytellers find humility in the natural world.

Part 1: After working in the Everglades, ecologist …

Human Nature: Stories of Resilience

August 13th, 2021

36:06

In this week’s installment of our Human Nature series, two storytellers find resilience on the high seas.

Part 1: Tragedy strikes suddenly while Lindsay Cooper is in the field studying right whales.

Part 2: Rachel …

Human Nature: Stories about Hope

August 6th, 2021

32:36

This week, our Human Nature series continues with stories of hope — something that can sometimes be hard to find when it comes to our relationship with the planet.

Part 1: A U.S. customs agent asks Canadian climate …

Human Nature: Stories about Perspective

July 30th, 2021

31:43

This week, as our Human Nature series continues, we’re sharing two stories from scientists whose experiences in the field changed their perspectives.

Human Nature: Courage

July 23rd, 2021

29:06

In this week’s installation of our Human Nature series, we’re sharing stories about times the natural world forces us to draw on our courage.

Part 1: Dorothy Tovar faces her fear of nature when she embarks on a …

Human Nature: Stories About Confidence

July 16th, 2021

33:37

This week, we present two more stories in our Human Nature series, this time about the nature of earning our stripes.

Part 1: An opportunity to chase a snake in Borneo gives Kasia Majewski a chance to find one in the …

Human Nature: Coming of Age Stories

July 9th, 2021

27:41

Our new series, “Human Nature,” begins today! Over the next seven weeks, we’ll share stories centered around our relationship with the natural world. In today’s episode, we’ll explore how our storytellers’ experiences …

Incarceration: Stories about science and prison

July 2nd, 2021

35:28

This week, we’re presenting two stories about incarceration, and its intersections with science.

Part 1: Looking to make an impact with science, Beverly Naigles and her fellow graduate students decide to teach a science …

Women in Science: Stories from women's scientific careers

June 25th, 2021

33:32

This week, we’re sharing two stories that were recorded before the pandemic, but that we’ve actually never shared on the podcast before. Both are from women in science, as our title suggests, and each one will bring us …

Trapped: Stories about being stuck

June 18th, 2021

26:05

Today, we’re bring you two stories about feeling trapped -- whether it’s at the border, or in the aftermath of an acid spill. Both of these stories were recorded live at our recent Proton Prom event on June 3.

Part 1:

Celebrating 11 Years: Our Founder's Favorites

June 4th, 2021

51:29

Story Collider co-founder Ben Lillie joins us on the podcast today to discuss some of his favorite stories from the past 11 years, and also share one …

Celebrating 11 Years: The Proton Prom

May 28th, 2021

28:23

This week, in anticipation of our first annual Proton Prom on Thursday, June 3, we’re sharing stories from two of our featured storytellers! Champion …

Celebrating 11 Years: Highlights from Our Online Shows

May 21st, 2021

33:16

This week, our host, Erin Barker, is joined on the podcast by the hosts of our online live shows, Gastor Almonte and Paula Croxson, to introduce two …

Celebrating 11 Years: Our Favorite Stories from Years Past

May 14th, 2021

37:55

In celebration of The Story Collider's 11th birthday, we’re sharing two of our most loved stories from years past. Next week, tune in for two more …

Stories of COVID-19: Neighbors

May 7th, 2021

30:42

In the final installment of this new five-part series of Stories of COVID-19, we present two stories that explore what it means to be a neighbor, or part of a community, during the pandemic.

Part 1: Feeling more and more …

Stories of COVID-19: Masks

April 30th, 2021

27:13

This week’s episode is all about masks -- the many varied reasons we have for wearing them, the uncertainty many of us felt around them in the early days of the pandemic, and most of all, the very real and intense …

Stories of COVID-19: Separation

April 23rd, 2021

28:52

During the past year, we’ve all been separated from our normal lives, from our workplaces and colleagues, and worst of all, from the people we love. …

Stories of COVID-19: Teachers

April 16th, 2021

35:59

Few professions outside of medicine and research have played as pivotal of a role in the events of the past year as teachers have. In today’s …

Stories of COVID-19: On the Job

April 9th, 2021

36:07

This week, we begin sharing Stories of COVID-19 once again, starting with stories about the ways COVID-19 has impacted our working lives.

Part 1: When a bug gets stuck in her ear while she’s in the field tagging …

Two Sides Mini-Series, Part 3: On Time

March 26th, 2021

25:57

In this last installment of our “Two Sides” series, we’ll hear stories from a brother and sister, Susan Kay Maller and Dan Boyd. Despite being born 18 years apart, Susan and Dan have similar memories of growing up with …

Two Sides Mini-Series, Part 2: My Heroes

March 19th, 2021

28:28

This week's episode is part two of a special three-part mini-series centered around stories about mental health, told from two different …

Two Sides Mini-Series, Part 1: Two Apartments

March 12th, 2021

26:33

This week is the start of a very special three-part mini-series centered around stories about mental health, told from two different perspectives. …

BONUS: Migration

February 26th, 2021

21:16

In today’s bonus episode, we bring you two stories on the theme of migration.

Part 1: Ornithologist Dai Shizuka finds himself relating to an unusual …

BONUS: Champions

February 12th, 2021

21:27

This week, we’re sharing a very special bonus episode while we’re between series! This episode is titled “Champions,” because our storytellers today are just that. Our first storyteller, Kimberly Chao, was the winner of …

Stories of COVID-19: Love, Part 2

February 1st, 2021

22:20

In Part 2 of this episode, we’re sharing two more stories about the powerful love that has sustained us throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. As always, …

Stories of COVID-19: Love, Part 1

January 29th, 2021

37:12

Throughout the tragic events of the past few months -- and despite the tragic events still to come -- love still perseveres and flourishes. From an unlikely pandemic wedding to the bond formed between researcher and …

Stories of COVID-19: Clarity, Part 2

January 25th, 2021

30:39

In part 2 of Clarity, we’re sharing two more stories about the ways the pandemic has brought our lives into sharper focus.

In our first story, comedian Freddy G realizes just how much he relies on his wife’s support when …

Stories of COVID-19: Clarity, Part 1

January 22nd, 2021

39:03

The starkness and suddenness of the pandemic has forced many of us to stop and reconsider our lifestyles. In this episode, our storytellers will share tales of how their priorities and values have come into focus since …

Stories of COVID-19: Community, Part 2

January 18th, 2021

36:08

In Part 2 of this episode, we have THREE more stories about how our storytellers are finding community during the pandemic. Don't forget, you can …

Stories of COVID-19: Community, Part 1

January 15th, 2021

40:33

Right now, while we can’t safely gather together, it can be difficult to feel part of a community. When most of our interactions are through a …

Stories of COVID-19: Home, Part 2

January 11th, 2021

23:54

In Part 2 of “Home,” we’ll share two more stories about how storytellers are adapting their home lives during social distancing. Our first story is …

Stories of COVID-19: Home, Part 1

January 8th, 2021

35:24

Over the past few months, our homes have become workplaces, schools, and the backdrop for the majority of our lives. In this episode, our …

BONUS: "Except Me" by Sam Long

December 28th, 2020

14:09

We’re taking a break from our Stories of COVID-19 series until Jan. 8. But in the meantime, we have a fan-favorite story from one of our online live …

Stories of COVID-19: Generations, Part 2

December 21st, 2020

30:21

In Part 2 of this episode, we’ll share two more stories about the impact of COVID-19 across generations. Our first story is from two storytellers — science communicator Ian Haydon and his mother, retired writer and …

Stories of COVID-19: Generations, Part 1

December 18th, 2020

34:21

Each generation is experiencing the pandemic differently. For some, the trauma of the 1918 pandemic still echoes. Others worry about how to balance their own health and responsibilities with concerns about the health of …

Stories of COVID-19: Connection, Part 2

December 14th, 2020

27:34

In Part 2 of Connections, we share two more stories about finding new ways to connect during the pandemic. Our first story is from psychologist …

Stories of COVID-19: Connections, Part 1

December 12th, 2020

34:41

Note: Apologies for the glitch yesterday! This is an updated version.


By necessity, the pandemic is changing the way that we communicate with each …

Stories of COVID-19: Decisions, Part 2

December 7th, 2020

31:53

In Part 2 of Decisions, we’re sharing two more stories of difficult choices, one from a physician and another from the director of a public health …

Stories of COVID-19: Decisions, Part 1

December 4th, 2020

34:19

In the midst of a pandemic, almost every decision feels high stakes, and impossibly complicated. This episode will explore the difficult decisions …

Stories of COVID-19: Adaptation, Part 2

November 30th, 2020

26:25

In part two of this episode, we’ll hear two more stories about adapting to a new normal. Our first story is from bestselling author and champion storyteller Matthew Dicks. When life becomes monotonous during quarantine, …

Stories of COVID-19: Adaptation, Part 1

November 27th, 2020

32:48

The pandemic has forced us all to adapt in various ways, for the sake of our physical or mental health. The stories in this week’s episode will focus on the ways in which our storytellers have forged new lives and …

Stories of COVID-19: Cooperation, Part 2

November 23rd, 2020

32:12

In part 2 of this episode, we’ll explore the theme of cooperation further with two more stories, from a volunteer and an organizer.

Our first story is …

Stories of COVID-19: Cooperation, Part 1

November 20th, 2020

31:24

In this episode, we explore the ways in which we’re working together to help one another and get things done, despite the significant obstacles and social-distancing restrictions presented by COVID-19.

Today, in part one …

Stories of COVID-19: Contact, Part 2

November 16th, 2020

33:28

In part 2 of our first episode, we share two more stories on the theme of Contact.

In our first story, Tracey Segarra is laid off from her corporate job during the pandemic, but finds a new calling as a contact tracer. …

Stories of COVID-19: Contact, Part 1

November 13th, 2020

31:33

Our series begins in New York City, the center of the early days of the pandemic, with a story from Harvey Katz, one of the hosts and creators of Take Two Storytelling. In this story, Harvey, a brand-new nurse, is …

TRAILER: Stories of COVID-19

November 6th, 2020

3:26

Introducing our brand-new upcoming series, Stories of COVID-19! Stay tuned for our first episode on Nov. 13, and find out more here:

A Special Announcement

October 30th, 2020

6:16

A quick announcement from the Story Collider team about changes coming to our podcast! On Friday, November 13th, we will launch our new series, The …

Epidemic Response Part 2: Stories about past epidemics

October 23rd, 2020

29:37

This week we present two more stories from our back catalog about people who experienced epidemics of the past.

Part 1: Journalist Erika Check Hayden …

Epidemic Response Part 1: Stories about past epidemics

October 16th, 2020

37:40

This week we present two stories from our back catalog of people having to handle previous epidemics.

Part 1: As a pediatrician in the 1980s, Ken Haller comes across a disturbing X-ray.

Part 2: On her first day working in …

Spiraling: Stories of losing control

October 9th, 2020

30:31

This week we present two stories of people who spiraled out of control in their minds.

Part 1: Computer vision researcher Virginie Uhlmann struggles …

Ocean Discovery: Stories about what we discover at sea

October 2nd, 2020

27:21

This week we present two stories from people who had encounters with ocean animals.

Part 1: Stuck in the lab with buckets of jellyfish, Shreya Yadav must rethink why she's studying what she's studying in the first place.

Strangers: Stories about the people we don't know

September 25th, 2020

27:13

This week we present two stories from people who had experiences with strangers.

Part 1: Even though he's an excellent student, and later a doctor, Dale Okorodudu finds that strangers perceive him differently.

Part 2:

A Little Luck: Stories about needing luck to get by

September 18th, 2020

24:36

This week we present two stories from people who needed a little luck to get by.

Part 1: Studying Marine Biology in Florida, Philadelphian Kory Evans …

Childhood Experiments: Stories about being scientists before we were ready

September 11th, 2020

29:52

This week we present two stories from people who decided to experiment with science when they were still teenagers.

Part 1: In high school, Saad …

Family: Stories about the people we hold dearest

September 4th, 2020

29:20

This week we present two stories from people who were confronted with what it means to lose family.

Part 1: After leaving class early, Sonia Zárate gets a startling phone call about her daughter.

Part 2: An indoor kid at …

Research: Stories about becoming a part of the process

August 28th, 2020

28:53

This week we present stories from people who found themselves in sticky situations in the midst of doing research.

Part 1: Erik Vance's first job reporting on scientific research doesn't smell as much like success as it …

Coincidences: Stories about looking for a chance encounter

August 21st, 2020

28:08

This week we present two stories from people who found the improbable.

Part 1:

Part 2:

As a national park ranger, native South Floridian Gary Bremen has spent the past 33 years telling the stories of the places and people …

Animal Rescue: Stories about animals who need our help

August 14th, 2020

33:35

This week we present two stories from people who got called into action to save an animal they didn’t know they’d be called to save.

Part 1: While running an errand, Andrea Azarian happens upon a lost horse that needs …

Challenges: Stories about challenges we didn't know we needed to face

August 7th, 2020

35:25

This week we present two stories from people who experienced challenges in their travels.

Part 1: Transporting virginal fruit flies from Houston to …

Scientists in Love: Stories about the fantasies

July 31st, 2020

34:29

This week we present two stories from people for whom science and love were interconnected.

Part 1: When Saurin Choksi starts dating a neuroscientist, …

Shame: Stories about the judgment of others

July 24th, 2020

30:04

This week we present two stories from people who felt shamed by a diagnosis.

Part 1: Jamie Brickhouse's HIV-positive status becomes a point of tension at the dentist's office.

Part 2: Diagnosed with autism spectrum …

Help from Family Part 2: Stories about taking care of relatives

July 17th, 2020

34:26

This week we present two stories from people for whom science and their family crossed paths.

Part 1: After her mom's version of the sex talk confuses her, Khadija Aweis is determined to make sure her little brother has …

Help from Family Part 1: Stories about complicated relationships

July 10th, 2020

32:30

This week we present stories about two people who had to navigate the complicated process of helping their family when they were needed most.

Part 1: When his mother is diagnosed with breast cancer, Ian Anthony has to …

Out on my Own: Stories about going away from home

July 3rd, 2020

36:00

This week we present two stories from people who found adventure when on their own.

Part 1: Shawn Hercules is a successful gospel radio deejay in …

Navigating Whiteness: Stories from Black educators

June 26th, 2020

30:53

This week we present two stories from Black people who were dealing with the ramifications of our racist systems.

Part 1: As a science teacher, Mamoudou N'Diaye was supposed to have all the answers, but he struggles to …

Saving Dad: Stories about fathers who needed a helping hand

June 19th, 2020

33:00

This week we present two stories about people who sprung to action to help a dad.

Part 1: To cheer up her ailing father, Victoria Ruiz decides to smuggle a turtle into his hospital room.

Part 2: Stacey Bader Curry finally …

Rebirth: Stories about recovering from pain

June 12th, 2020

32:01

This week we present two stories from people who lost loved ones and had to rebuild themselves.

Part 1: Massih Moayedi survives cancer, but the …

BONUS EPISODE: Bias: A story about institutional racism

June 11th, 2020

14:11

This week we present a story from our back-catalogue that speaks to this current moment in time.

As a medical school student Roger Mitchell Jr. sees a …

Memories: Stories about memories left unformed

May 29th, 2020

26:15

This week we share two stories from people whose understanding of the use of memory was challenged.

Part 1: Padraic Stanley gets a fresh start when his abusive father gets diagnosed with Alzheimer's dementia.

Part 2:

Impressions: Stories about our relationships to data

May 22nd, 2020

27:16

This week we present two stories from people who used technology to understand their relationships.

Part 1: Digital consultant Phong Tran navigates …

Celebrating 10 Years: Our favorite stories

May 15th, 2020

1:07:08

This week we present four of our favorite stories of all time.

Part 1: Neuroscientist David Carmel tests his own understanding of the brain when his own father suffers a stroke.

Part 2: Ralph Bouquet goes off script …

Becoming Mom: Stories about wanting to mother

May 8th, 2020

32:18

This week we present two stories from two women who struggled to adopt.

Part 1: Inspired by her work as a parental behavior researcher, Bianca Jones Marlin and her husband decide to become foster parents.

Part 2: Raised …

Something's Not Right: Stories about needing to figure things out

May 1st, 2020

39:57

This week we present two stories from people who needed to decipher themselves.

Part 1: After some unfortunate night-time incidents, Keith Mellnick realizes he needs to better understand his sleepwalking before it starts …

When I Was a Scientist: Stories about an earlier life

April 24th, 2020

29:36

This week we present two stories from people who used to be scientists.

Part 1: Despite loving science, Ivan Decker's first exposure to field work doesn't go as planned.

Part 2: Nathan Min tries to pursue a 'respectable' …

Unprepared: Stories about unprepared parents

April 17th, 2020

42:59

This week we present two stories from people who found themselves without the tools they needed.

Part 1: When Jack Walsh finds out his first child …

Revelations: Stories about big reveals

April 10th, 2020

42:11

This week we present two stories from people who learned something about their childhood later in life.

Part 1: Growing up in the fifties and sixties, Jenice Matias senses there's more to her mother's occupation than she …

Emergency: Stories about urgent situations

April 3rd, 2020

36:13

This week we present two stories from people who deal with emergencies.

Part 1: As a first-generation pre-med student with no financial aid, Brooke …

Asking for Help: Stories about needing assistance

March 27th, 2020

31:37

This week we present two stories from people who didn’t ask for help until it was too late.

Part 1: Determined to fit in as a PhD student, Aparna Agarwal decides she'll never ask for help -- even if it means fitting in …

Desperate Times: Stories about resorting to desperate measures

March 20th, 2020

41:20

This week we present two stories from people who were at the end of their rope.

Part 1: After donating her kidney to a friend, Leah Waters struggles …

Math Class: Stories about adventures in math education

March 13th, 2020

32:27

This week we present two stories from the math classroom.

Part 1: High school math whiz Tori Ball has always hoped a boy would fall in love with her …

Barriers: Stories about what stood in our way

March 6th, 2020

38:32

This week we present two stories from people who were faced with barriers to their education.

Part 1: Eager to succeed in her Physical Chemistry class, Shaniece Mosley is thrown off by a professor's attempt at a …

Leap of Faith: Stories about finding and losing faith

February 28th, 2020

35:33

This week we share two stories from people who were confronted with their faith.

Part 1: Feeling like a loser after he fails to graduate on time with his degree in materials science, Len Kruger accepts a dinner …

A Whole New World: Stories about having to take on the challenge of a whole new existence

February 21st, 2020

44:19

This week we present two stories of people having to navigate a new world.

Part 1: Sean Bearden has never been interested in education, but when he's incarcerated at the age of 19, he finds a passion for physics.

Part 2:

Sex Ed: Stories about the education of sexuality

February 14th, 2020

32:26

Vote for your favorite Story Collider story of all time here: https://airtable.com/shreBxfsM5XYktIT5


This week we present two stories from people who …

Love and Technology: Stories about the technology that alters our lives

February 7th, 2020

35:14

Vote for your favorite Story Collider story of all time here: https://airtable.com/shreBxfsM5XYktIT5


This week we present stories from people who …

Mothers and Sons: Stories about the love between mothers and sons

January 31st, 2020

38:42

This week we present two stories from mothers who learned valuable lessons from the sons they birthed.

Part 1: Avi Caspe and his mother, Ariel Detzer, reckon with what the label of "autism" means for their family.

Part 2:

Code of Ethics: Stories about doing the right thing

January 24th, 2020

30:07

This week we present two stories of people struggling with what the “right” thing to do is.

Part 1: Catherine Macdonald always wanted to study sharks, but her first time tagging them in the field doesn't go as planned.

Identity Crisis: Stories about what makes us who we are

January 17th, 2020

30:34

This week we present two stories about people struggling with their identity.

Part 1: When science journalist Katherine Wu interviews a scientist about a new facial recognition algorithm, the conversation turns more …

Hypothesis: Stories about having a question that needs answering

January 10th, 2020

36:00

This week we present two stories from people who had hypotheses.

Part 1: Teaching sixth grade science becomes much more difficult when Xochitl …

Leaving Home: Stories about having to leave in order to find home

January 3rd, 2020

36:09

This week we present two stories of people who had to leave home to find a new home.

Part 1: When Ph.D student Ali Mattu's girlfriend tells him she is moving to New York City, he has to make some tough decisions about …

Shoot for the Stars: Stories about people who look to the night sky for inspiration

December 27th, 2019

36:50

This week we share two stories of people who were inspired by heroes of space.

Part 1: After watching a documentary about the moon landing, Kate Downey comes away with a love of all things Buzz Aldrin.

Part 2: Richard …

Dating by the Numbers: Stories about the romantic side of numbers

December 20th, 2019

34:24

This week we present two stories from people who found an intersection between numbers and their sex life.

Part 1: When online dating isn't working out for him, Tristan Attwood decides to analyze the data himself.

Part …

A Scientist is Born: Stories that cross generations

December 13th, 2019

34:57

This week we present two stories that give us insight into the birth and life of a scientist.

Part 1: As a 16-year-old, Lily Be gets an unexpected …

Justice: Stories about righteous determination

December 6th, 2019

35:27

This week we present two stories from people who stood up against a system eager to tear them down.

Part 1: After a car crash alters Emily Winn's life forever, she must relive the trauma when she testifies in a …

BONUS: Behind the Scenes, Episode 1: Stage Fright

December 3rd, 2019

36:04

A sneak peek at our new BONUS podcast for Patreon supporters! Today's episode is the first of our Behind the Scenes series. Liz and Erin are joined …

Thankful: Stories about gratitude

November 29th, 2019

37:04

This week we present two stories from people who owe a debt of gratitude to somebody for their entrance into the science community.

Part 1: A chance meeting with a stranger on an airplane has a huge impact on Melanie …

Outsiders: Stories about seeing things from the outside

November 22nd, 2019

43:38

This week we present stories from two scientists who were confronted with their status as an “outsider.”

Part 1: After getting hit by a car, Ph.D. student Reyhaneh Maktoufi must navigate the recovery and paperwork as an …

Wild: Stories about humans and animals coexisting

November 15th, 2019

32:59

This week we present stories from two people finding their boundaries with the wild world of animals.

Part 1: Adam Selbst competes with tigers for the attention of his mother.

Part 2: Weighed down by the burden of …

Late Diagnosis: Stories about being diagnosed as an adult

November 8th, 2019

28:53

This week we present two stories about people who discovered a diagnosis late in life.

Part 1: As a child, TC Waisman is told that she is on the …

Crushes: Stories about scientists in love

November 1st, 2019

35:51

This week we present two stories from scientists searching for that special someone.

Part 1: Zoology student Devon Kodzis's strategy of attracting …

Cursed: Stories about superstitions

October 25th, 2019

37:18

This week we present two stories from people who let science lead them down a rabbit hole of curses.

Part 1: Science journalist Erik Vance decides to …

Leadership: Stories about responsibility

October 18th, 2019

17:09

This week we present two stories from people who had to become leaders whether they liked it or not.

Part 1: Eager to show off their new job testing water quality, Prof.Ound takes their friends out on a boat for the …

Silence: Stories about finding our voices

October 11th, 2019

34:31

This week we present two stories about the sounds that silence can take on.

Part 1: Kambri Crews attempts to smuggle a gift into prison for her father, who is deaf.

Part 2: As Kristine Lycke enters kindergarten, her …

My First Science: Stories about early experiences with science

October 4th, 2019

41:37

This week we present two stories from people telling the first time they crossed paths with science.

Part 1: In the third grade, Lylianna Allala finds …

On the Scene: Stories about showing up when disaster strikes

September 27th, 2019

36:03

This week we present two stories about being the one who is there when it happens.

Part 1: Journalist Sarah Kaplan normally covers the science beat, but when tragedy strikes in Las Vegas, she takes on an assignment …

BONUS: Before and After: Stories that evolve over time

September 24th, 2019

46:30

In this special BONUS episode, we unveil a brand-new addition to our podcast! To celebrate, we present new versions of classic stories from Story …

Miseducation: Stories about what happens in the classroom

September 20th, 2019

27:15

This week we present two stories from teachers dealing with wild experiences in the classroom.

Part 1:  When his students keep having “accidents" during nap time, kindergarten teacher Alvin Irby investigates

Part 2:  In …

Secrets: Stories about the things we keep to ourselves

September 13th, 2019

36:49

This week we present two stories about the the parts of ourselves that we keep under wraps.

Part 1: At 22 years old, Jenn Montooth is accepted to …

Proving Myself: Stories about fighting distrust

September 6th, 2019

28:07

This week we present two stories from people who have to prove themselves in science acedemia.

Part 1: When there's an explosion in the chemistry lab, graduate student Chanté Summers springs into action.

Part 2: When …

Labor Day: Stories about trying to make a baby

August 30th, 2019

24:59

This week we’re presenting two stories about people trying to become parents.

Part 1: After finally getting together in their forties, Chris Wade and …

Surgery: Stories about operations

August 23rd, 2019

43:34

This week we present two stories from surgeons who had complications with the knife.

Part 1: A routine procedure with one of the primates in her lab …

BONUS: Power of Patients: Stories about taking back the narrative

August 21st, 2019

47:26

The Story Collider is delighted to bring you an extra BONUS episode this week -- thanks to the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, a new kind of philanthropy …

The College Years: Stories about leaving home for university

August 16th, 2019

30:44

This week we present two stories from people who left home for university and discovered something unexpected.

Part 1: After Kenny Kinds begins lying to his parents about his grades, he has to question why he is in …

My Parent's Child: Stories about taking care of those who took care of us

August 9th, 2019

29:30

This week we share two stories from scientists who had to take on a new role with their parents.

Part 1: As the scientist in the family, Steve Scott …

Saving the World: Stories about trying to be the savior

August 2nd, 2019

28:50

This week we present two stories from people who ran into roadblocks trying to save the world.

Part 1: When pharmacy professor Lindsay Acree …

Dream Deferred: Stories about hitting roadblocks

July 26th, 2019

31:11

This week we present two stories about people who had to accept a delay in their personal journeys.

Part 1: Veterinarian Rodrigo Solis thinks he's …

Private Parts: Stories about the science of intimate areas

July 19th, 2019

31:48

This week we present two stories from people who had disastrous moments with their own genitals.

Part 1: Lonely after her move to New York City, Adrien Behn finds a friend in her copper IUD.

Part 2: While recovering from …

Concern: Stories about being worried

July 12th, 2019

31:05

This week we present two stories from people gripped with concern for others.

Part 1: When biologist Andrew Holding's new baby stops feeding, his …

Marriage: Stories about making it work

July 5th, 2019

35:29

Part 1:  After turning down a tenure position, Sarah Brady struggles to adapt to her new life as the spouse of a physician.

Part 2:  As he grows up, …

Youthful Indiscretions: Stories about being Young and Dumb

June 28th, 2019

26:44

This week we present two stories about people making choices informed by the naïvety of youth.

Part 1: On a dull night in Orlando, young Josh Flaum …

Strength: Stories about searching for what makes us strong

June 21st, 2019

32:08

This week we present two stories of scientists having to find a strength within themselves.

Part 1: BiologistH eather Hamlin leaves the safety of the …

Adventures with Dads: Stories about chasing down our fathers

June 14th, 2019

34:43

This week we share two stories from people who have go on wild goose chases to find their dads.

Part 1: In his last year of medical school in …

Underwater: Stories about swimming deeper

June 7th, 2019

35:16

This week we present two stories from people who were underwater both literally and metaphorically.

Part 1: Barbara Abernathy has always felt at home in the ocean, but when she undergoes a bone marrow transplant, her …

Plan B: Stories about people needing a backup plan

May 31st, 2019

33:03

This week we bring you two stories of people who had to reckon with the fact that their first choice wasn’t available.

Part 1: When the local science museum looks to hire performers, David Nett believes he's the perfect …

Mental Health: Stories about having crises of the mind - Part 2

May 24th, 2019

33:50

This week we present two more stories about people who need help to deal with mental health.

Part 1: Comedian Zack Stovall reevaluates his past battles with his mother in light of a new diagnosis.

Part 2: Audrey Kearns' …

Mental Health: Stories about having crises of the mind - Part 1

May 17th, 2019

30:25

This week we present two stories about people’s struggles with their own mental health.

Part 1: After passing out on the NYC subway, comedian Mike Brown is forced to take a deeper look at his mental health.

Part 2: Emily …

Moms of Science: Stories about being mothers and scientists

May 10th, 2019

35:15

his week we present two stories of scientists becoming mothers.

Part 1: Heather Williams trades in her physicist labcoat for motherhood, and wonders if she can return.

Part 2: Mary Garcia-Cazarin discovers she's pregnant …

Confidence: Stories about finding your voice

May 3rd, 2019

25:09

This week we present two stories about people finding strength in their own voice.

Part 1:  A parent-teacher conference leads Eugenia Duodu to …

The Joy of Cats: Stories about our feline friends

April 26th, 2019

30:12

This week, for National Pet Parents day, we bring you two stories of our relationships with our cats.

Part 1:  In a battle over her apartment's air quality, cat foster mom Tracy Rowland discovers how to use her kitten's …

Older and Wiser: Stories about growing up

April 19th, 2019

24:52

This week we present two stories of the children we used to be and how they grew up.

Part 1: As a sixth grader, Anna Neu decides she's going to fall in love at science camp.

Part 2: At age nine, Anicca Harriot plans to …

Limelight: Stories about being the voice of science

April 12th, 2019

31:44

This week we present two stories about scientists who became the face of the scientific community.

Part 1: When conservation scientist Laura Kehoe writes about a surprising chimp behavior, the media takes it wildly out …

Peace: Stories about searching for solace

April 5th, 2019

35:03

The week we present two stories of people being confronted with chaos and looking for peace.

Part 1: Overwhelmed by setbacks as she pursues her …

New Places: Stories about being somewhere new

March 29th, 2019

32:31

This week we present two stories about being the new one in a new place.

Part 1: After moving to a brand-new school in the seventh grade, Edith …

Ocean Adventures: Stories about the swashbuckling high seas

March 22nd, 2019

31:34

This week, we are presenting two stories from people who took to the open ocean.

Part 1: As an irresponsible 17-year-old, Brian D. Bradley volunteers …

Teamwork: Stories about working together

March 15th, 2019

26:25

Part 1: A power outage on campus leads physics student Zoya Vallari to take a stand against her university's female-only curfew.

Part 2: Firefighter Nick Baskerville is eager to prove himself when he arrives on the scene …

Circles: Stories about coming back around

March 8th, 2019

28:46

This week we present two stories about times in which everything came full circle.

Part 1: In the middle of a school day, science teacher Brittany …

Mentors: Stories about who helps us find our way

March 1st, 2019

35:43

Part 1: As a brand-new professor of physiology, John Redden is eager to help students, but soon realizes it’s more complicated than he thought.

Part 2:

Inspiration: Stories about what inspires us

February 22nd, 2019

31:21

This week, we’re presenting two stories from scientists about the people and places that inspired them.

Part 1: Just before she leaves for her dream opportunity to teach marine science on the Red Sea, Latasha Wright gets …

Heredity: Stories about where we come from

February 15th, 2019

25:33

This week, we present two stories about people understanding their links to their past.

Part 1: A question that Laura Spink asked her parents as a kid comes up again when her own child begins to ask similar questions.

In Love with Science: Stories about Loving Science

February 8th, 2019

33:42

This week, we’re presenting two stories from people who made science their one and only..

Part 1: Parmvir Bahia struggles to appease her parents’ desires for an Indian son-in-law while also satisfying her own desires to …

Danger: Stories about life-threatening situations

February 1st, 2019

29:03

This week, we’re presenting two stories from scientists who found themselves in potentially life-threatening situations.

Part 1: Ralph Bouquet goes …

Courage: Stories about standing up for yourself

January 25th, 2019

38:31

This week, we’re presenting stories about the courage to be the person you were meant to be.

Part 1: The lessons that Margaret Rubega learns from her dad about fighting back are put to the test when he becomes the one …

Acceptance: Stories about belonging

January 18th, 2019

36:10

This week, we’re presenting stories about the struggle to find acceptance — whether it’s at Space Camp or in the United States of America.

Part 1:  Computer scientist LaShana Lewis’s childhood dream of attending Space …

Stress: Stories about being under pressure

January 11th, 2019

30:19

This week, we’re presenting two stories about stressful situations in science.

Part 1:  Due to stress in her personal life, TV writer Joey Slamon …

Just a Number: Stories about age and science

January 4th, 2019

31:14

This week, we’re presenting two stories about age, and what it means to feel either too old or too young to become a scientist.

Part 1:  Miserable at …

Carpe Diem: Stories about seizing the day

December 29th, 2018

28:33

In our last episode of 2018, we’re presenting two stories about facing challenges head-on and seizing the day.

Part 1: .On the eve of his first big …

New Friends: Stories about unexpected connections

December 21st, 2018

38:59

This week, we’re presenting stories about unexpected friendships in science, whether they’re formed in the field or at Burning Man.

Part 1: Looking to connect with new people, mathematician Seth Cottrell sets up an ‘Ask …

Science vs. Love: Stories about the battle between head and heart

December 14th, 2018

34:19

This week, we’re presenting stories about times when science gets in the way of love — or vice versa.

Part 1: Jacqueline Trumbull is preparing for a …

Science Gets Personal: Stories about science getting real

December 8th, 2018

30:18

This week, we’re presenting two stories about times when science got personal and research started to hit home.

Part 1: After years of suffering, Phillip Comella discovers the cause of his “excessive bathroom breaks” …

Moments of Truth: Stories about pivotal moments

November 30th, 2018

25:12

This week, we’re presenting two stories about pivotal moments in science when everything suddenly becomes clear.

Part 1: When puppeteer Raymond Carr gets the opportunity of a lifetime, to work on a big-budget show about …

Parents: Stories about moms and dads

November 23rd, 2018

32:06

This week, in honor of the start of the holiday season, we're presenting stories about parents — and the ways our relationships with them intersect …

Getting In: Stories about making the grade

November 16th, 2018

26:50

It’s that time of year — application season. So this week, we’re presenting two stories about the (literal and figurative) struggle to be accepted.

Part 1: The only thing standing in the way of Jennifer Landa’s dreams of …

Pregnancy: Stories about the science of having a baby

November 9th, 2018

34:34

In this week’s episode, we’re presenting two stories about the science of pregnancy.

Part 1: An expert in oxytocin, the hormone released during birth,  Bianca Jones Marlin is determined to have a natural birth — even as …

Bodies: Stories About the Skin We're In

November 2nd, 2018

29:50

This week, we’re presenting stories about our relationships with our bodies, in all their shapes and sizes.

Part 1: Born without a right pectoral …

Fear: Stories of daring adventures in science

October 26th, 2018

32:42

This week, in honor of Halloween, we're presenting two stories about facing fears for science.

Part 1: As a newly minted PhD student in geology, Erik …

Rescue: Stories about taking care of others

October 19th, 2018

30:45

This week, we're presenting stories about times when science comes to the rescue — or not, as the case may be. 

Part 1: When science writer Kate Sheridan falls in love with a man who suffers from paralyzing headaches, …

Cancer Sucks: Stories from cancer survivors

October 12th, 2018

31:31

This week, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we're presenting two stories from cancer survivors.

Part 1: Gail Thomas clashes with her …

Sense of Touch: Stories about the power of contact

October 6th, 2018

27:07

This week, we're presenting two stories about the power of touch.

Part 1: While working on a book about the sense of touch, science journalist Sushma …

Overwhelmed: Stories about being in over our heads

September 28th, 2018

25:45

This week, we're presenting stories about times when science is just too much.

Part 1: Fiona Calvert is a crier — but when she starts her PhD, she …

Science Saved My Life: Stories about life-saving passion

September 21st, 2018

31:46

This week, we're presenting stories about passion for science that keeps us going, even in the face of overwhelming struggle. 

Part 1: When Cailin …

Following Directions: Stories about improvising

September 14th, 2018

31:01

This week, we're presenting stories about the difficulties of following instructions -- whether it's medical advice or a recipe. 

Part 1: Science …

Expectations: Stories about surprising discoveries

September 7th, 2018

39:08

This week, we're presenting stories about what happens when our expectations don't match up with reality.

Part 1: Married neuroscientists Susana Martinez-Conde and Stephen Macknik are surprised by what they learn when …

Trials by Fire: Stories about difficult paths to science

August 31st, 2018

30:52

This week, we're presenting stories from scientists who faced unusually difficult paths to science. We all know it's hard work to become a scientist. …

Abortion: Stories from doctors and patients - Part 2

August 29th, 2018

35:16

This week, we're presenting a special two-part bonus episode featuring the stories from our June 2018 show at Caveat in New York City, as part of the Underground Science Festival. Rather than the speeches we typically …

Abortion: Stories from doctors and patients - Part 1

August 28th, 2018

50:57

 This week, we're presenting a special two-part bonus episode featuring the stories from our June 2018 show in New York City, "Abortion: Stories from …

Leaving Home: Stories about the places we're from

August 24th, 2018

33:08

This week, we're presenting stories about leaving home in pursuit of science.

Part 1: After being raised as a creationist, Jennifer Colbourne falls in …

Help: Stories about desperate situations

August 17th, 2018

33:16

This week, we’re presenting stories about times when we’re overwhelmed and feeling alone. Sometimes, in science, we need help. Sometimes that help is hard to find. And sometimes it comes from an unexpected place.

Part 1:

Bright Ideas: Stories about inspiration

August 8th, 2018

28:33

This week, we're presenting stories about unconventional solutions and things that seemed like a great idea at the time!

Part 1: Author Kate Greathead …

Me vs. My Brain: Stories about losing your self

August 3rd, 2018

38:27

This week, we're presenting stories about what happens when our own brains keep us from being fully ourselves.

Part 1: When storyteller Sandi Marx …

Loneliness: Stories about finding friends

July 26th, 2018

34:23

his week, we're presenting stories about the struggle to find friends. Science can be a lonely job -- but it can also connect us to others in ways …

Surprises: Stories about the unexpected

July 20th, 2018

34:33

This week, we're presenting stories about surprising revelations or events in science.

Part 1: When he receives a call from the vet, writer Matthew Dicks is startled to learn that his dog is in surgery -- and that he …

Mortality: Stories about confronting death

July 13th, 2018

33:44

This week at The Story Collider, we're presenting two stories about confronting death.

Part 1: Science communicator Anthony Morgan receives an …

The Science of Dating: Stories about sex and romance

July 6th, 2018

33:36

This week, we're presenting two stories about the science behind dating, ranging from a neuroscientist's attempts to use brain scans and personality tests to determine her compatibility with a rapper to a comedian's …

Responsibility: Stories about leadership

June 29th, 2018

35:33

This week, we're presenting two stories about responsibility in science. Whether we're working in a classroom or the White House, we all have some level of responsibility for others. And sometimes we have to ask …

Pride: Stories about coming out in science

June 27th, 2018

29:41

To close out Pride Month this week, we're sharing a special bonus episode featuring stories about coming out in science!

Part 1:  Science educator Charlie Cook experiments with coming out to students.

Charlie Cook is a …

Unfamiliar Territory: Stories about journeys to new places

June 22nd, 2018

29:49

In this week's episode, we're presenting stories about venturing into unfamiliar territory, whether it's an isolated community in Alaska or the Costa …

In Honor of Father's Day: Stories about complicated dads

June 15th, 2018

35:51

This week, we're celebrating Father's Day by sharing stories about complicated relationships with dads.

Part 1: After her father, a well-known …

Forever: Stories about unbreakable bonds

June 8th, 2018

30:11

This week we're sharing stories about love that stands the test of time, transcending illness, differences, and even death. In other words -- break out that box of tissues, y'all.

Part 1: Writer Alison Smith reconnects …

Coming of Age: Stories about growing up

June 1st, 2018

27:02

This week, we're presenting stories about coming of age. Bildungsroman, if you will. (Thank you, eleventh-grade Honors English!) These storytellers will share stories about growing up and finding their identities -- …

Science Fiction: Stories about aliens and zombies

May 25th, 2018

30:55

This week, we take a journey into science-fiction to find out if aliens can master the science of empathy and zombies can bring a couple closer …

Different: Stories about standing out in a crowd

May 18th, 2018

29:04

This week, we present two stories about being different, and the ways our differences can become our strengths.

Part 1: Growing up, Amanda Gorman is determined to eliminate her speech impediment.

Part 2: An aspiring …

In Honor of Mother's Day: Stories about moms

May 11th, 2018

28:33

This week, in honor of Mother's Day, we present two stories about science and moms!  Part 1: Marine biologist Jessica Hoey tries to keep her …

Identity: Stories about figuring out who we are

May 4th, 2018

29:36

This week, we’re presenting stories about identity, whether its an external sense of cultural identity or an internal sense of self.

Part 1: 

Challenges: Stories about overcoming obstacles

April 27th, 2018

32:56

This week, we’re presenting stories about overcoming obstacles and breaking down barriers -- whether those barriers are institutional or written into our genetic code.

Part 1: Aletha Maybank's childhood experiences with …

Dreams: Stories about ambition

April 20th, 2018

27:50

This week, we're presenting stories about scientific ambitions and dreams -- and the ways in which they meet reality.

Part 1: Planetary geologist …

Fight or Flight: Stories about confronting threats

April 13th, 2018

31:23

This week, we present two stories about confronting threats -- whether it’s actual physical danger or a threat to your career.

Part 1: Climate scientist Kim Cobb is exploring a cave in Borneo when rocks begin to fall.

Science Communication: Stories about spreading the word

April 6th, 2018

28:28

This week, we present two stories about communicating science, whether it's through journalism or over a fragile Skype connection. Part 1: Science journalist Judith Stone worries about causing conflict when she writes …

New Beginnings: Stories about starting over

March 30th, 2018

25:46

This week, we present two stories about fresh starts and new beginnings in science.

Part 1: Mari Provencher's family is rocked by changes -- starting …

Women in Science: Stories about defying expectations

March 23rd, 2018

31:11

This week, in honor of Women's History Month, we're presenting two stories about women in science and the unique challenges they face. Follow us on …

Generations: Stories about passing science down

March 16th, 2018

30:23

This week, we present two stories about science and wisdom passed down through generations. Part 1: Ted Olds fears he’ll fail to graduate after his …

In Honor of Pi Day: Stories about math

March 9th, 2018

30:24

This week, in honor of Pi Day on March 14, we're presenting two stories from mathematicians.

Part 1: After a reluctant start, mathematician Ken Ono makes an unexpected discovery.

Part 2: Mathematician Piper Harron deals …

Innovation: Stories about creative ideas

March 2nd, 2018

30:45

This week, we present two stories about original ideas and creative solutions in science -- from a Rube Goldberg machine to using hookworms to treat …

Double Lives: Stories about loving both science and art

February 22nd, 2018

27:25

This week, we present two stories about being torn between love of science and a love of art.

Part 1: Saad Sarwana tries to juggle careers in physics and comedy. 

Part 2: Jean Zarate is torn between science and music …

Black Holes: Stories about dark times

February 16th, 2018

29:20

This week, we present two stories about dark moments in science.

Part 1: Astrophysicist Jesse Shanahan tries to uncover the mysteries behind both the …

Heartbreak: Stories about times science breaks our hearts

February 9th, 2018

26:59

This week, in honor of Valentine's Day, we're presenting two stories about heartbreak in science.

Part 1: Rattled by a recent heartbreak, …

Recovery: Stories about responding to crises

February 2nd, 2018

34:00

This week, we're p​resenting stories about the ways we respond and recover to dire situations in science, whether it's cancer or sexual …

Good and Evil: Stories about the science of gray areas

January 26th, 2018

30:45

This week, we bring you two stories about the science of morality. Or morality in science. Either way you want to look at it.

Part 1: Political …

Bad Days in the Field: Stories about fieldwork frustrations

January 19th, 2018

25:32

This week, we bring you two stories about frustrations in the field, whether it's a failure to find dinosaur fossils or a struggle with a painful …

Origin Stories: Stories about paths to becoming a scientist

January 12th, 2018

32:40

This week we present two stories about the inspiration behind scientists' careers.

Part 1: Kate Marvel's dream of being a genius takes her to Cambridge to study astrophysics.

Part 2: When Joe Normandin begins to …

Math Problems: Stories about struggles with math

January 5th, 2018

28:43

This week, we present two stories about the struggles "math people" face. Part 1: Lew Lefton tries to succeed as both a math professor and a math comedian. Part 2: Vanessa Vakharia faces her first day as student teacher …

Home: Stories about science and community

December 8th, 2017

33:33

This week, we present two stories about finding community with science.

Part 1: Keoni Mahelona leaves his home in Hawaii in pursuit of science.

Part …

The Science of Growing Up: Stories about coming of age

December 8th, 2017

29:06

This week, we present two science stories about becoming the people we're meant to be. 

Part 1: Research technician Jean Ansolabehere finds herself …

Life and Death: Stories of loss and resilience

December 8th, 2017

34:58

This week, we're presenting two stories about loss and resilience in science.

Please note: Our first story this week contains graphic depictions of …

Doubt: Stories about moments of uncertainty in science

December 8th, 2017

25:01

This week, we present two stories of doubt in science, from a mysterious illness to imposter syndrome. 

Part 1: A sudden illness casts doubt on whether Maia Pujara will be able to finish her neuroscience PhD.

Maia …

Psychotropic Substances: Stories about altered states

December 1st, 2017

30:54

This week, we present two stories about psychotropic substances, from a study on the impacts of magic mushrooms on cancer surivors to a comedian's spiritual epiphany. Part 1: Actor Gail Thomas is invited to take part in …

The Bats and the Bees: Stories about winged wildlife

November 24th, 2017

26:28

This week, we present two stories about the challenges of studying winged wildlife, from bats to honey bees.

Part 1: Cylita Guy finds unexpected adventure when she studies bats in the field.

Part 2: Rachael Bonoan …

Reflection: Stories about our sense of self

November 17th, 2017

31:44

This week, we present two stories about the things that make up our sense of self, from our appearance to our memories.

Part 1: On the verge of …

DNA: Stories about family

November 10th, 2017

32:11

This week, we bring you two stories about science and family, from a biochemist and a neuroscientist.

Part 1: Biochemist Katie Wu is lactose …

Maternal Bond: Stories about moms and their kids

November 3rd, 2017

31:44

This week, we present two stories about the mother-child relationship intersecting with science, from a daughter and a mother.  Part 1: Actor and writer Erica Silberman tries to find a place for her mother with …

Pressure: Stories about stressful situations

October 27th, 2017

29:02

This week, we present two stories of scientists under professional and academic pressure, both in the field and in the lab.

Part 1: In China, …

Adaptation: Stories about survival

October 20th, 2017

29:04

This week, we present two stories of adapting to survive, from a cancer survivor's creative solution to the after-effects of his treatment to an …

Invisibility: Stories about hiding in plain sight

October 13th, 2017

29:51

This week, we bring you two stories of invisibility, from a man looking to escape his identity to a marine biologist who feels invisible to her …

Perception: Stories about tricks of the mind

October 5th, 2017

25:09

This week, we present two stories from science journalists about the ways the ways we perceive -- or misperceive -- the world around us. 

Part 1: When science journalist Eli Chen begins to have doubts in her …

Migration: Stories about journeys home

September 28th, 2017

29:26

This week, we bring you two stories about long journeys home, from an Iranian-American biologist and a psychologist who survived Chernobyl. Part 1:

Attachment: Stories of powerful bonds

September 22nd, 2017

28:50

In this week's podcast, two chemists try to balance their love and their science, and a mother must choose her newborn daughter's surgeon.

Part 1: Heather Abbott-Lyon falls in love with another physical chemist, but can …

Identification: Stories about who we are

September 15th, 2017

42:04

This week, we present two stories about identity, from a neuroscientist's encounters with racism to an OB-GYN's struggle with her feelings about …

Chemistry: Stories about falling in love

September 8th, 2017

39:05

This week, we present two stories about science intersecting with love -- in both fortunate and unfortunate ways.

Part 1: Nothing can come between Lindzi Wessel and her new boyfriend, David -- except maybe herpes.

Part …

Metamorphosis: Stories of radical change

September 1st, 2017

32:23

In this week's episode, we bring you two stories of scientists experiencing radical change, whether at home or in 1980s Berlin.

Part 1: Nadia Singh decides she doesn’t want children, believing it will detract from her …

Exploration: Stories about facing new challenges

August 25th, 2017

28:02

This week, we present two stories of exploring new territory, from communicating with chimpanzees to swimming in the Red Sea.

Part 1: While working …

Boiling Point: Stories of reaching points of crisis

August 18th, 2017

28:06

This week, we bring you two stories of scientists reaching points of crisis.

Part 1: Rashawn Ray’s trajectory as a sociologist is forever changed by …

Zoology: Stories about wild animals

August 11th, 2017

37:00

This week, we present two stories of encounters with wild animals, from a seal named Crystal in Antarctica to a flatulent rhino in South Africa. Part …

Epidemic: Stories about medical crises

August 4th, 2017

30:21

This week, we present two stories of medical crises, from New York in the 1980s to the present-day opioid epidemic.

Part 1: During his residency training, pediatrician Ken Haller comes across a disturbing X-ray.

Part 2:

Magnetism: Stories about attraction

July 28th, 2017

33:07

In today's episode, we bring you two stories about attraction, from the neuroscience of prairie voles to a physics love story. Part 1: Neuroscientist …

Death: Stories about untimely ends

July 21st, 2017

27:19

This week, we present two stories about death in science, from a university lab to a crime lab. Part 1: To make ends meet as a student, Cris Gray takes a high-paying job in a lab… and finds out why it’s so high-paying. …

Evolution: Stories about evolving as people

July 14th, 2017

27:17

Part 1:  Adam Andis was raised as a creationist, but grows up to become an evolutionary biologist. Part 2: In grade school, Angel Yau excels at …

Friction: Stories of difficult relationships in science

July 7th, 2017

32:12

This week, we bring you two stories of difficult professional relationships in science, whether in the field or in the lab. Part 1: As a young …

Independent Research: Stories of setting off on our own

June 30th, 2017

29:21

This week, we present two stories about young scientists setting off on their own. Part 1: As an undergrad, Frank Stabile lands an exciting summer research position in D.C., but soon he starts to notice something’s not …

Oil: Stories from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill

June 23rd, 2017

30:38

This week, we bring you two stories from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010, one from a native Louisianian scientist and the other from a fourth-generation Louisiana fisherman.  Part 1: Louisianan scientist Estelle …

Paternal Bonds: Stories about dads

June 16th, 2017

32:53

This week, we present stories of science and fatherhood. Part 1: As a teenager, comedian Gastor Almonte seeks answers about some of the scientific …

Symbiosis: Stories about teamwork

June 9th, 2017

29:04

This week, we present two stories about working together, whether it's to accomplish a scientific mission or save a life. Part 1: Yael Fitzpatrick and her theater technician friends attempt to save a sea turtle. Part …

Early Childhood Development: Stories about growth

June 2nd, 2017

28:25

This week, we present two stories of learning experiences connected to early childhood, from an expert in maternal and infant health discovering the reality behind her research to a first-grader striving to be one of …

Working Memory: Stories about how memory shapes us

May 26th, 2017

41:19

This week, we present two stories of how memory impacts our lives, our families, and the way we see ourselves. Part 1: When Jirard Khalil is twelve …

Standard Deviation: Stories about unusual encounters

May 19th, 2017

26:17

Part 1: Late one night in the ER, doctor Bess Stillman treats a patient with an interesting dilemma. Part 2: As a teenager, science writer Brendan …

Maternal Instinct: Stories about moms

May 12th, 2017

34:16

In this week's episode, we present two stories of science and motherhood, just in time for Mother's Day. Part 1: Developmental biologist Pam …

Hard Science: Stories about journeys into physics

May 5th, 2017

23:04

Part 1: When Sarah Demers gets a work-study job working on a particle detector, she has no idea what she's in for. Part 2: After being discouraged from pursuing science, Katy Rodriguez Wimberly searches for her place in …

Syzygy: Stories of celestial alignment

April 28th, 2017

24:07

Part 1: Bryony Tilsley and her husband are planning a local astronomy event when their family undergoes a big change. Part 2: Eclipse chaser David …

Resistance: Stories about fighting oppression

April 21st, 2017

27:03

Part 1: Environmental engineer Siddhartha Roy is baffled when the state of Michigan insists the water in Flint is safe to drink despite his …

Transformation: Stories about changing states

April 14th, 2017

29:22

Part 1: Geneticist Sebastian Alvarado reconnects with his love of comic books by attempting to shrink ants. Part 2: Inspired by his favorite novel, third-grade Danny Artese attempts to turn himself into a plant. …

Technological Advancements: Stories about the ways technology impacts our lives

April 7th, 2017

30:39

Part 1: Blind athlete Simon Wheatcroft finds a way to run marathons by himself. Part 2: Worried she won't ever be able to commit to one field of study, Dale Markowitz decides to go all in on a neuroscience project. …

Observational Error: Stories about the overlooked

March 31st, 2017

32:42

Part 1: Neuroscientist Qi Lin struggles to connect with friends and colleagues when she can’t escape her scientific mindset. Part 2: When defense …

Isolation: Stories about loneliness

March 24th, 2017

40:13

Part 1: On an expedition to Antarctica, journalist Alok Jha ends up trapped on the ice for days. Part 2: Neuroscientist Rita Tavares attempts to analyze her romantic problems with science. Alok Jha is a …

Habitat Loss: Stories of changing environments

March 17th, 2017

42:08

Part 1: Ecologist Evon Hekkala travels to Madagascar to help protect a village from a man-eating croc. Part 2: Criminologist Stan Stojkovic receives …

In the Field: Stories about venturing into the wild

March 10th, 2017

31:53

Part 1: As a grad student, Liz Neeley falls in love with the order of science, but when she heads into the field, she’s forced to confront messy …

Natural Habitats: Stories of finding where we belong

March 3rd, 2017

28:51

Part 1: Born and raised in Brooklyn, naturalist Helen Cheng leaves the comfort of the city to venture out into the field. Part 2: Ecologist Thom …

Predators: Stories about confronting danger

February 24th, 2017

31:39

Part 1: Drew Prochaska decides to confront his fear of sharks -- by going swimming with them. Part 2: Attorney Heather Cucolo must navigate the …

Fear Response: Stories about conquering fear

February 17th, 2017

34:55

Part 1: Mark Pagán combats his phobia of flying in an unusual way. Part 2: Military surgeon Rob Lim must perform surgery in the middle of a sandstorm in Iraq. Mark Pagán is an award-winning storyteller, comedian, …

Oxytocin: Stories of love gone wrong

February 10th, 2017

28:45

Part 1: MIT Museum education coordinator Faith Dukes wonders if there’s something wrong with her when she fails to couple up. Part 2: Cara Gael O'Regan is startled when she tests positive for syphilis. Faith Dukes is …

Research: Stories about the places studies take us

February 3rd, 2017

30:13

Part 1: As a teenager, Bri Riggio struggles to understand her eating disorder and connect with her psychologist father. Part 2: Seth Baum, an expert …

Outliers: Stories of unusual outcomes

January 27th, 2017

32:17

Part 1: A series of unfortunate events reveals something off about molecular biologist Maryam Zaringhalam’s sense of smell. Part 2: Hillary Savoie’s …

Baseline: Stories about starting points

January 20th, 2017

29:29

Part 1: Bioethicist Elizabeth Yuko tries to use her science training while reporting her sexual assault. Part 2: Engineering student Selam Gano …

Excited State: Stories about exhilerating experiences

January 14th, 2017

24:45

Brian Mackenwells tries to smuggle something onto the vomit comet, and Jess Thom learns the best way to explain her Tourette's to someone new. Brian Mackenwells currently works at the Wellcome Trust Centre for Human …

Exposure: Stories about new experiences

January 6th, 2017

30:27

Part 1: Journalist Erika Check Hayden travels to Sierra Leone and sees ebola up close and personal for the first time. Part 2: As a child, …

Adam Becker: The Solar System

December 30th, 2016

17:26

Though Adam Becker loved science as a kid, he struggled in school -- until he met first-grade teacher Mrs. Brown. Adam Becker is a writer, …

Mary Ann Allen: My Friend Lovey

December 23rd, 2016

16:06

When biologist Mary Ann Allen gets a chance to study Down syndrome, the disorder her dear childhood friend had, she jumps at the chance, but the …

Rebecca Brachman: Deadly Mistake

December 16th, 2016

19:11

Neuroscientist Rebecca Brachman is working late one night alone in the lab when she accidentally sticks herself with a needle full of deadly toxin. …

Emily Grossman: Crying in Science

December 9th, 2016

16:09

When geneticist and science communicator Emily Grossman is invited to discuss women in science on TV, she doesn't know she'll be debating a legendary …

Amanda Buch: My Father's Brain

December 2nd, 2016

14:30

When Amanda Buch's beloved father is diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, it sparks a passion in her for neuroscience. Amanda Buch is a budding neuroscientist and visual artist who draws inspiration from the intersection …

Matt Hartings: My Bacon Number

November 25th, 2016

17:14

Chemist Matt Hartings is excited -- and a little frantic -- when he receives an unexpected invitation to talk about the science of bacon on The Today Show. Matt Hartings is a chemist who works at American University. …

Chiara Mariottini: Lost in Translation

November 18th, 2016

14:55

Italian neuroscientist Chiara Mariottini struggles to fit in when she moves to New York City. Chiara Mariottini has a PhD in Neurophysiology from the …

Wes Hazard: Everything Is Wrong

November 11th, 2016

15:15

Standup comedian Wes Hazard's dangerous chronic illness rears its head while he's on stage one night. Wes Hazard is a Boston-based comic & storyteller who was named 1 of '5 Boston Comics to Watch' by the Boston …

Amy Oestreicher: Life Without a Stomach

November 4th, 2016

20:05

Amy Oestreicher is a normal teenage theater nerd... until the day her stomach explodes. Amy Oestreicher is a PTSD peer-to-peer specialist, artist, author, writer for The Huffington Post, speaker for TEDx and RAINN, …

Jana Watson-Capps: Shark-Infested Waters

October 28th, 2016

17:16

Biologist Jana Watson-Capps struggles with feeling in over her head in her scientific career. Jana Watson-Capps is an Associate Director of the …

Herman Pontzer: Burning Calories

October 21st, 2016

17:04

Anthropologist Herman Pontzer spends time living among a Hadza hunter-gatherer tribe in order to see if they burn more calories than a typical …

Layne Jackson Hubbard: Still Myself

October 14th, 2016

13:51

Layne Jackson Hubbard wakes up in a hospital room with a head wound and no memory of how she got there. Layne Jackson Hubbard is a PhD student in …

Aparna Nancherla: By Any Means Necessary

October 7th, 2016

16:18

When comedian Aparna Nancherla's science fair project goes awry, she and her fellow students make some unethical choices. Aparna Nancherla is a standup comedian and writer who has written for “Late Night with Seth …

Patrick Freeman: Elephant Time

September 30th, 2016

15:01

Patrick Freeman is studying elephants in Namibia when he receives terrible news. Patrick Freeman is a Research Assistant at the Carnegie Institution …

Rachel Yehuda: Cause and Effect

September 23rd, 2016

19:04

To discover why some survivors of trauma experience PTSD and some don't, scientist Rachel Yehuda must convince a community of Holocaust survivors to …

Ira Flatow: The Sound of the Falls

September 16th, 2016

24:00

As a young science reporter at NPR, Science Friday's Ira Flatow accepts a challenge to record what it sounds like to go over Niagara Falls. Award winning science correspondent and TV journalist Ira Flatow is the host of …

Wyatt Cenac: Driving Drunk for Science

September 9th, 2016

17:15

While completing a community service requirement in high school, comedian Wyatt Cenac puts a drunk driving simulation to the test. Wyatt Cenac is a …

Paula Croxson: How Cold Is Too Cold?

September 2nd, 2016

17:05

Neuroscientist Paula Croxson is determined to finish her first open-water swimming race -- despite the dangers. Paula Croxson is a neuroscientist at …

Ben Lillie: The Truth About My Grandfather

August 26th, 2016

19:34

After his grandfather passes away, Ben Lillie learns the surprising truth about his life -- from Wikipedia. Ben is a high-energy particle physicist who left the ivory tower for the wilds of New York's theater district. …

Elana Lancaster: The Egg & the Equinox

August 19th, 2016

14:09

In grade school, Elana Lancaster gets into trouble when he questions his student teacher's science. Elana Lancaster is a health educator and …

Skylar Bayer: The Hummingbird of Doom

August 12th, 2016

16:51

Skylar Bayer's dreams of a career in scientific scuba diving are put in jeopardy when her heart begins acting strangely. Skylar Bayer is a PhD candidate studying the secret sex lives of scallops in the great state of …

Aaron Wolfe: The Inseminator

August 6th, 2016

14:11

Aaron Wolfe seeks meaning through labor at a kibbutz dairy farm -- and finds himself tackling some rather unexpected tasks. Aaron Wolfe is a moth …

Jo Firestone: A Sex Education

July 29th, 2016

11:24

When comedian Jo Firestone goes to college, she starts to worry she has an STD -- even though she's never had sex.

Learn more about your ad choices. …

MaryAnn Wilbur: Two Pregnancies

July 22nd, 2016

11:48

While she's 26 weeks pregnant, OB-GYN MaryAnn Wilbur treats a woman who is also 26 weeks pregnant -- and about to go into labor. MaryAnn Wilbur is currently an editorial fellow at the New England Journal of Medicine and …

Henry Duffy: 97 Days On Pitcairn Island

July 15th, 2016

13:43

As a student, Henry Duffy jumps at a chance to do research...on the second most remote island in the world. Henry Duffy is a conservationist with a …

Nathan Boll: What Else Is Out There?

July 8th, 2016

12:59

Nathan Boll was an excellent physics student -- up until the day he suddenly dropped out. Nathan Boll is a Christine Mirzayan Science and Technology …

Nitin Ron: Babies and Mountains

July 1st, 2016

13:31

Newborn and premature baby specialist Nitin Ron learns a surprising lesson from one of his young patients. Nitin Ron is a neonatologist (baby doctor) …

Emily Mullin: Losing My Voice

June 24th, 2016

16:31

In high school, Emily Mullin dreams of becoming a broadcast journalist -- until her voice mysteriously begins to disappear. Emily Mullin is a …

Jeff Sparr: Obsession

June 17th, 2016

13:48

Jeff Sparr finds an unexpected purpose after his life is torn apart... by a case of jock itch. PeaceLove co-founder Jeff Sparr is a man on an …

Amanda Duffy: A Picture of My Brain

June 10th, 2016

13:08

Neuroscientist Amanda Duffy gets some surprising news about her brain when she volunteers to be a control in an MRI study. Amanda Marie Duffy is a …

David Russell: In The Name Of Love

June 3rd, 2016

19:06

In high school, David Russell joins a hospital apprentice program in order to get close to his crush. David Russell is a librarian, bookseller and …

Rochelle Williams: Potential

May 29th, 2016

17:03

As a PhD student, Rochelle Williams faces barriers to a career in engineering. Rochelle Williams is a Louisiana girl, Spelman woman, and lover of all things football. No stranger to implicit and institutional biases, …

Steve Crabtree: Painting A Nuclear Submarine

May 20th, 2016

19:44

Steve Crabtree gets an unusual start to his career: watching paint dry. Steve Crabtree left school aged 15 in 1985 and started work as a painter …

Brion Randolph: Curiosity Saves The Cats

May 14th, 2016

12:55

Brion Randolph's journey to becoming a doctor begins with a box full of kittens. Dr. Brion Randolph is currently the Chief of Medical Oncology at …

Dawn Fraser: The Mission

May 6th, 2016

14:19

While working as a census taker in 2010, Dawn Fraser is taken by surprise when her partner asks her for a favor. Dawn J. Fraser is a storyteller, educator and and nationally acclaimed speaker based out of New York City. …

Bill Harwood: How A Chemist Becomes A Cop

April 29th, 2016

14:12

As a young chemist working for the state crime lab, Bill Harwood is unexpectedly called to a crime scene. Lt. Bill Harwood is the director of the …

Nneze Akwiwu: The First Female President Of Nigeria

April 22nd, 2016

18:14

A chance conversation gives Nneze Akwiwu a chance to study in the United States. Nneze Akwiwu is currently a senior Biology major at Spelman College. …

Chris Duffy: A Comedian Walks Into Some Neuroscience

April 15th, 2016

12:42

After reading about scientific theories of humor, comedian Chris Duffy decides to see if those principles can make his act better. Chris Duffy is a NYC-based comedian who performs across the country. His shows have been …

Kia Salehi: Control

April 8th, 2016

11:05

A young neuroscientist seeks control through an eating disorder. Kia Salehi is a recent graduate of Wellesley College, where she majored in …

Amanda Stockton: The Girl With The Big Nose

April 1st, 2016

13:36

Growing up on a cattle ranch, Amanda Stockton dreams of searching for life elsewhere in the universe. Dr. Amanda Stockton is an assistant professor in the Chemistry and Biochemistry department at the Georgia Institute …

Dan Daneshvar: Making The Death Call

March 26th, 2016

12:08

To study a dangerous disease, Dan Daneshvar asks families to consider donating their loved one's brains. Dan Daneshvar received an S.B. from the …

Joe Palca: 175 Riverside Drive

March 18th, 2016

15:01

A series of incidents propels Joe Palca to a career in sleep research. Joe Palca is a science correspondent for NPR. He comes to journalism from a …

Erika Engelhaupt: Fear Of Flying

March 12th, 2016

13:32

Erika Engelhaupt gets a dream reporting assignment. There's just one problem--she has to take a small prop plane just like the one that she almost crashed in years ago. Erika Engelhaupt is a science writer and editor. …

Maryam Zaringhalam: Cheating My Way To Smart

March 5th, 2016

13:33

Maryam Zaringhalam's scheme to cheat her way into the smart class makes clear a huge flaw in the education system. Maryam Zaringhalam is a molecular …

Jonaki Bhattacharyya: Losing Control

February 26th, 2016

19:20

Jonaki Bhattacharyya ventures out into rugged Canadian wilderness to research wild horses — but can does she have what it takes to survive? This story was produced as part of the Springer Storytellers series. Hear and …

David Putrino: Medical Records

February 20th, 2016

15:17

While working at a hospital, David Putrino finds a surprise in his own medical records. David is a Physical Therapist with a PhD in Neuroscience. He has worked as a clinician in the US, UK and Australia, studied …

Saad Sarwana: The Math Test

February 12th, 2016

11:12

Saad Sarwana is finally about to win a high school award, but in his way is a math problem even the teacher got wrong. Saad Sarwana grew up in …

Rachel Fairbank: Scientist Or Subject?

February 5th, 2016

14:08

While being treated after an accident, Rachel Fairbank struggles with not being the researcher. Rachel Fairbank received her bachelor's in biology …

Abhishek Shah: Waste Disposal

January 29th, 2016

11:38

Abhishek Shah takes a simple job to pay for school--toxic waste disposal. Being a biomedical engineer, Abhishek Shah knows everything about physics, …

Brian Kennedy: The Back-Up Plan

January 22nd, 2016

13:30

Brian Kennedy is forced to take a job in his local pharmacy to finance his theater dreams. Brian Kennedy is a writer/storyteller living in NYC. He's written for The Huffington Post and performed improv and sketch comedy …

Kaća Bradonjić: The Nature Of Space And Time

January 17th, 2016

14:25

Physicist Kaća Bradonjić's view of time is shaped by her experience as a war refugee. Originally from the former Yugoslavia, Kaća Bradonjić is a theoretical physicist living and working in Massachusetts. Her research on …

Ali Mattu: My Brother The Trekkie

January 8th, 2016

18:02

Psychologist Ali Mattu didn't know what he wanted to be as a kid, but his older brother helped him find inspiration in Star Trek. Ali is a clinical …

Anna Nicanarova: Playing Sick

January 1st, 2016

10:32

Anna Nicanarova pretends to be sick to get out of a test, but how far will she take the ruse? Anna Nicanorova is Director of Annalect Labs -- space for experimentation and rapid prototyping within Annalect. Anna is …

Tom Levenson: Henry

December 25th, 2015

19:05

Used to the controlled uncertainties of his work, science writer Tom Levenson is forced to confront the dramatic uncertainty of whether he’ll be able …

Adam Foote: The Sea Urchin Massacre

December 18th, 2015

22:57

Adam Foote confronts the problem of obtaining sea urchins in land-locked Pittsburgh...during a polar vortex. Adam recently graduated with a Master's …

Neer Asherie: The Milk Heist

December 11th, 2015

12:39

When he discovers his milk has been stolen from the dorm fridge, Neer Asherie has to resort to extreme science measures to find the culprit. Neer …

Rachel Pendergrass: A Bad Day At The Aquarium

December 4th, 2015

11:54

Rachel Pendergrass gets her dream job: talking to visitors in an aquarium, but dealing with the questions are not what she expected. Rachel Pendergrass is a storyteller, writer, actor, and science communicator native to …

Alan Guth: Stumbling To Inflation

November 28th, 2015

19:20

Alan Guth is working on a fairly typical research paper, when he accidentally makes a huge discovery about the origin of the universe. Alan H. Guth …

Adam Rogers: Separating Cells

November 22nd, 2015

15:44

Adam Rogers gets an exciting opportunity to work in a marine biology lab, and see if he really wants to be a biologist. Adam Rogers is articles …

April Salazar: The Heart Adapts

November 13th, 2015

15:12

Facing an incredibly important decision, April Salazar is infuriated by way scientific information about reproduction is distorted. April Salazar is a writer and storyteller. She's written for The New York Times and has …

Jimmy Wohl: Calmfidence

November 6th, 2015

17:28

As a musician and writer Jimmy Wohl thought he was the ultimate creative, then he encounters a pharmaceutical marketing campaign. Jimmy Wohl is a …

Erik Vance: Is This Biology?

October 31st, 2015

14:12

Erik Vance searches for the real meaning of biology while chasing porcupines. Erik Vance is a native Bay Area writer replanted in Mexico as a …

Aerin Jacob: Lessons From The Man With A Machine Gun

October 23rd, 2015

18:55

With her truck stuck in the mud in the Serengeti, Aerin Jacob learns three important lessons. This story was produced as part of the Springer Storytellers series. Hear and read more at www.beforetheabstract.com/ Aerin …

Nicole Ferraro: The Summer Of West Nile

October 16th, 2015

12:19

A remote disease comes very close to home for Queens resident Nicole Ferraro. Nicole Ferraro is a writer, editor, and storyteller living in NYC. Her …

Teppei Katori: Becoming American

October 9th, 2015

18:24

A Japanese particle physicist struggles to find his place (and learn English) in the American midwest. Teppei Katori is an experimental particle physicist and a lecturer at Queen Mary University of London. His major …

John Rennie: The Downside Of Being The Boss

October 2nd, 2015

20:24

John Rennie finds it’s great to be editor in chief of Scientific American, but not when all the ingredients of sarin gas are in his office. John Rennie is a science writer, editor, and lecturer based in New York. …

Adriana Salerno: A Different Kind Of Problem

September 25th, 2015

16:27

As a mathematician, Adriana Salerno is used to solving problems, but depression is something else entirely. Adriana Salerno is originally from …

Brittany Bushnell: A Neuroscientist With A Brain Tumor

September 18th, 2015

13:33

Just after beginning a graduate program in neuroscience, Brittany Bushnell gets an unexpected look at her own brain. Brittany Bushnell has a BS in …

Nate Charles Troisi: Family Chemistry

September 11th, 2015

13:59

A chemistry set is the perfect opportunity for Nate Charles Troisi to connect with his engineer father. Nate Charles Troisi is an award winning …

David Moinina Sengeh: Whose Story Is It?

September 4th, 2015

13:22

When reporters call to cover David Moinina Sengeh's work, that should be a good thing, but it depends on what story they want to tell. David Moinina …

Tara Lagu: Quitting The Lab To Save The World

August 28th, 2015

15:00

Tara Lagu's passion for beating her high school rival in the science fair turns into an unusual medical career. Tara Lagu, M.D., M.P.H, is an …

Karen James: I Could Be an Astronaut

August 21st, 2015

16:34

A surprise email leads a biologist to NASA. Dr Karen James (@kejames on Twitter) is a biologist at the MDI Biological Laboratory, where she combines …

Erica Ferencik: My Dad & His Mice

August 15th, 2015

14:19

Erica Ferencik's father left his family to pursue his obsession with finding monogamy in the animal kingdom. Award-winning novelist, screenwriter, and essayist Erica Ferencik is the author of the comic novel, Cracks in …

George Church: Playing With Fire

August 7th, 2015

12:36

George Church learns a lesson on the power of nature the hard way. George Church is Professor of Genetics at Harvard Medical School, Director of NIH …

John Dimandja: The First Day Of Class

July 31st, 2015

15:08

Professor John Dimandja is confused when his class begins snickering on the first day -- until he realizes it's because they weren't expecting him to be black. John Dimandja is an Associate Professor of Chemistry at …

Diana Reiss: Who is training who?

July 27th, 2015

11:36

Early in her career researching dolphin intelligence Diana Reiss began wondering, "Who is training who?" Diana Reiss, a cognitive psychologist and a …

Uzma Rizvi: Being an Archaeologist

July 19th, 2015

16:14

At a checkpoint in Iraq, not knowing if she'll get through, Uzma Rizvi reflects on what it means to be an archaeologist. This story was produced as …

Brian Wecht: The Littlest Experiment

July 13th, 2015

17:23

For physicist Brian Wecht, his new baby is the perfect opportunity--to do experiments. Brian Wecht studies theoretical particle physics and string …

Jessica Henkel: Stuck

July 6th, 2015

18:01

Ecologist Jessica Henkel finds the keys to her research truck missing, as it's parked on a remote beach with one of the biggest tides of the season …

Carter Edwards: Brontosaurus Claus

June 27th, 2015

18:31

Not even the truth about Santa Claus and George Washington could prepare Carter Edwards for what happened to Brontosaurus. Carter Edwards' work has …

Rose Eveleth: Looking For Help

June 19th, 2015

13:06

Rose Eveleth always wanted to be fiercely independent. But sometimes being too independent has its downsides. Rose Eveleth is a writer, producer, and designer based in Brooklyn. She's dabbled in everything from research …

Virendra Singh: Farm To School

June 12th, 2015

17:11

Virendra Singh is responsible for carrying on his family's farm, but he begs his parents to be allowed to go to school. Virendra was born in a …

Sean Carroll: What Would Stephen Hawking Do?

June 4th, 2015

14:04

Sean Carroll gets a fabulous job offer—to work with Stephen Hawking—twice. Sean Carroll is a Research Professor of theoretical physics at the …

Carl Hart: My Cousin's Meds

May 27th, 2015

15:27

When neuroscientist Carl Hart meets with his cousin he wonders about what he now knows about psychiatric medication and society, and whether his own …

David Kipping: Falling To Other Worlds

May 19th, 2015

13:23

A near-fatal accident on a mountain leads exoplanet hunter David Kipping to a new goal. David Kipping is an astronomer based at the …

Chris Gunter: My Prosthetic

May 11th, 2015

14:39

Geneticist Chris Gunter worries about passing on a rare condition to her son. Chris Gunter is a human geneticist by training, and a science communicator by choice. She earned her Ph.D. at Emory University and then moved …

Bradford Jordan: The Brain In The Trunk

May 1st, 2015

12:54

Bradford Jordan finds there's more to the brain his dad brings to show his class than just how cool it is. Bradford Jordan is an actor, improviser, …

Renee Hlozek: Who Looks Like A Scientist?

April 24th, 2015

11:35

An offhand sexist comment enrages Renee Hlozek, and leads her to dig into how her colleagues really view people who aren't the stereotypical …

Elin Roberts: The Bacon Sandwich

April 17th, 2015

17:31

A simple interview about a bacon sandwich turns into a national, then international nightmare. Elin Roberts is Head of Public Engagement at the Centre for Life in Newcastle. She is a passionate science communicator …

Jon Ronson: Jon Ronson Vs Jon_Ronson

April 11th, 2015

18:27

When Jon Ronson discovers a twitter account pretending to be him, he sets off to find it's creators. Jon Ronson is a British nonfiction author, documentary maker and screenwriter. His books, Them: Adventures with …

Molly Payne Wynne: An Accomplice To Fish Murder

April 3rd, 2015

13:14

A summer job in Yellowstone National Park isn't quite what Molly Payne Wynne had been expecting. Molly is the Monitoring Coordinator for the …

Bianca Jones Marlin: It's Because She's Black

March 27th, 2015

12:44

On the first day of grad school for her PhD, a fellow student tells Bianca Jones Marlin that she doesn't really belong there. Bianca Jones Marlin is …

Hillary Rea: A Standard Pregnancy

March 16th, 2015

13:38

Hillary Rea enjoys her job as a "standard patient" helping to train medical students, until she's asked to sub in on a birth gone quite wrong. Hillary Rea is a Philadelphia dwelling comedian and storyteller, and the …

Adam Becker: How To Save Your PhD Supervisor

March 6th, 2015

18:53

When Adam Becker realizes a visiting film crew is made up of geocentrists, he has to prevent them from exploiting his adviser's work. Adam Becker is …

Erin Barker: Plants And People

February 27th, 2015

14:59

Erin Barker's attempt to save a college relationship leads her to a plant biology class where the professor brought an ax to class. Erin Barker is …

Obehi Janice: Gather And Murmur

February 20th, 2015

12:20

Obehi Janice's family struggles to understand a death their doctors can't explain. Obehi Janice is a writer, actress, and comedian. She is a graduate of Georgetown University and has trained with Shakespeare & …

Indre Viskontas: The Man Chart

February 12th, 2015

14:12

Neuroscientist Indre Viskontas and her friends turn to science to find the right way to date. Indre Viskontas is a neuroscientist and opera singer. She is also the host of Inquiring Minds, an in-depth exploration of the …

David Epstein: Holographic Supplements

February 4th, 2015

13:08

Sports writer David Epstein tracks down some surprising health claims circulating in the football world. David Epstein is author of the recent New …

Tara Clancy: Adventures In Babymaking

January 29th, 2015

19:00

The joys and dangers of getting pregnant for Tara Clancy and her wife. Tara Clancy is a writer and performer. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times Magazine, The Paris Review and The Rumpus. She is also a …

Suze Kundu: A New Pair Of Shoes

January 22nd, 2015

13:39

Suze Kundu is forced to abandon dancing for materials science, until materials science comes to the rescue. Suze Kundu is a Teaching Fellow at …

Bethany Brookshire: A Perfect Mentor

January 12th, 2015

13:09

Lost after arriving at grad school, Bethany Brookshire is happy to finally find a perfect mentor. Bethany Brookshire has a B.S. in Biology and a B.A. …

Justin Cameron: A Dangerous Trick

January 3rd, 2015

23:03

Sword swallower Justin Cameron gets an unexpected lesson in anatomy and medicine. Justin is a product manager and mobile app designer who works on search engines and secure email products. Before that, he was an …

Alex Bellos: Your Favorite Number

December 26th, 2014

17:53

Alex Bellos is surprised that people ask him what his favorite number is, so he decides to ask everyone what theirs is. Alex Bellos is the author of …

Ed Yong: Questioning A Hero

December 16th, 2014

20:18

Ed Yong is ecstatic to get an interview with his hero, Sir David Attenborough, but he's not prepared for a lesson in what having a science hero really means. Ed Yong is an award-winning science writer. His blog Not …

Annalee Newitz: Honoring The Dead

December 11th, 2014

14:19

Annalee Newitz comes to terms with grief while exploring the remains of a mysterious ancient city. Annalee Newitz is the editor of io9, and author most recently of Scatter, Adapt, and Remember: How Humans Will Survive a …

Steve Zimmer: Less Than One Percent

December 2nd, 2014

12:18

Against the odds, animal-loving kid Steve Zimmer attempts to rescue tadpoles in jeopardy. An aging yuppie from the midwest, Steve Zimmer was …

Shayle Matsuda: My First Expedition As A Man

November 25th, 2014

14:36

Marine biologist Shayle Matsuda adapts to his new identity as a transgender man while on assignment in the Philippines. Shayle Matsuda researches sea …

Brian Fisher: Living With The Pygmies

November 16th, 2014

13:08

Alone in the African rainforest and on the brink of death, entomologist Brian Fisher finds help from an unexpected source. Dr. Brian Fisher is a …

Matineh Eybpoosh: Being Good

November 4th, 2014

16:56

Married young and used to giving up her own dreams, Iranian student Matineh Eybpoosh moves to the U.S. to study civil engineering—and a whole new …

Jeffrey Schell: Caught In The Rip Current

October 27th, 2014

19:37

Oceanographer Jeffrey Schell finds himself in a race against time when he encounters swimmers stuck in a dangerous rip current. Jeffrey M. Schell is an associate professor of oceanography with Sea Education Association, …

Nisse Greenberg: What's In A Name

October 19th, 2014

12:51

While teaching a math class, Nisse Greenberg is troubled by his student's name, and his own. Nisse Greenberg is an educator and storyteller who eats mostly vegetarian. Sometimes he eats wings because wings are really …

Karen Hopkin: Who's The Donor?

October 9th, 2014

15:35

A panicked day leads Karen Hopkin to wonder if her sperm donor really is the father of her child. Karen Hopkin is a freelance writer and the creator of the Studmuffins of Science calendar. Karen received a PhD in …

John Rennie: Crazy Mail

September 27th, 2014

21:44

As an editor at Scientific American John Rennie delighted in the weird correspondence they received, but then one letter crossed a line. John Rennie is a science writer, editor, and lecturer based in New York. Viewers …

Edward Frenkel: The Test

September 21st, 2014

21:29

When Edward Frenkel is told he won't be accepted to a Russian university because his father is Jewish, he decides to take the admissions exam anyway. …

Meredith White: How To Write A Testimony

September 13th, 2014

14:11

Marine scientist Meredith has to navigate a whole new world when she's called upon to testify in front of the Maine legislature in support of a …

Nelson Lugo: A Simple Magic Trick

September 5th, 2014

13:00

Nelson Lugo has a brilliant idea for his grade school talent show -- use chemistry to do a simple magic trick. It did not go over well. Nelson Lugo …

Emily Caudill: Fading Notes

August 29th, 2014

18:43

Musician Emily Caudill's life-saving chemotherapy treatment causes her to lose her hearing. Emily Caudill is a songwriter and musician from Louisville, Kentucky. In 2011, while she was working in special education, and …

Erika Engelhaupt: The Science Of Speeding

August 22nd, 2014

18:04

Erika Engelhaupt is on a road trip out to DC when suddenly they're pulled over and her boyfriend is arrested. She'll need science to vindicate her …

Stephon Alexander: Physics Dreams

August 15th, 2014

14:20

Physicist Stephon Alexander feels overwhelmed until the father of quantum gravity himself helps him find inspiration in his subconscious. Stephon Alexander is the Ernest Everett Just 1907 Professor of Physics and …

Daniel Miller: Black Holes

August 8th, 2014

18:06

At four years old, Daniel Miller became one of the youngest people in the state of Texas ever to testify in court -- against his own mother, for …

Daniel Engber: Distracting Mark Cuban

August 1st, 2014

18:33

Daniel Engber risks derailing his PhD by constant daydreaming, until his neuroscience research gives him a idea that will revolutionize the NBA. …

Eugene Lim: Colliding Universes

July 25th, 2014

20:36

Cosmologist Eugene Lim is pulled into another world when he goes to help teach after the earthquake in Haiti. One day, Eugene Lim decided to dump his …

Ainissa Ramirez: Science Vs Football

July 18th, 2014

16:21

Materials scientist Ainissa Ramirez never connected with her brothers' love of football until she unexpectedly ends up writing a book about it. Ainissa G. Ramirez, Ph.D. is a science evangelist, who is passionate about …

Annalise Kaylor: A Room Full Of Odds

July 11th, 2014

14:50

A cancer diagnosis is only the start of the collapse for Annalise Kaylor, but she finds support in an unexpected community. Hailing from the …

Allison Hartshorn: Common Ground

July 4th, 2014

13:14

A relationship bridging the divide between scientists and artists is reflected in a fight over where to store tomatoes. Alison graduated with a BSc in Astrophysics from Newcastle University. Leaving for London to seek …

Jodi Beggs: Kindergarten tycoon

June 27th, 2014

21:31

Jodi Beggs's mother greatly underestimates how well her kindergartener understands economics. Jodi Beggs is an economist and writer whose focus is on making economics accessible and interesting to both students and a …

Kathleen Raven: Hearing

June 20th, 2014

14:44

Science writer Kathleen Raven's unexpected loss of hearing takes her on a journey with modern technology. Kathleen Raven writes for Reuters Health …

Moran Cerf: Finding Fear

June 13th, 2014

16:26

When he misses the opportunity to work with one of the most famous patients in neuroscience, Moran Cerf takes an unorthodox approach. Moran Cerf is a neuroscientist at NYU and Northwestern University. Prior to his …

Sarah Schlesinger: Experimental Treatments

June 5th, 2014

21:16

Immunologist Sarah Schlesinger must try to save her mentor's life with his own work in cellular immunity. Sarah J. Schlesinger MD is a clinical …

Marjorie Winther: Lighting A Fire

May 29th, 2014

12:33

As a science teacher, Marjorie Winther has both entertaining and troubling times with her students, but when she brings them to the South she …

Margaret Geller: Mapping The Universe

May 22nd, 2014

18:05

As a grad student, Margaret Geller is invited to a private island off the coast of Maine by legendary physicist John Wheeler and his wife, for a trip she'll never forget. Margaret Geller is an astrophysicist at the …

Carl Zimmer: Safety Carl Versus Gamera

May 14th, 2014

25:42

Science writer Carl Zimmer grew up loving monster movies, but he never guessed a real monster would show up in his own backyard. Carl Zimmer is a …

Abby Rabinowitz: Surrogate storytelling

May 7th, 2014

19:36

Journalist Abby Rabinowitz embarks on a journey through India's burgeoning surrogacy industry in search of a missing baby. Abby Rabinowitz teaches …

Sara Seager: A New Search For Life

May 1st, 2014

17:17

In the midst of her search for life on other planets, astrophysicist Sara Seager's own world is shattered when her husband is told he has stage three …

Jack El-Hai: Too Close To The Subject

April 23rd, 2014

18:08

Writer Jack El-Hai worries about his own state of mind when he spends time in the files of the psychiatrist who examined Nazi leaders. Jack El-Hai is the author of The Nazi and the Psychiatrist: Hermann Goring, Dr. …

Baratunde Cola: The Comeback

April 16th, 2014

14:49

Doomed to be the waterboy after tearing his ACL, engineering student Baratunde Cola is determined to make it back to his college's football team. …

Nick Hud: The Origin Of Life

April 9th, 2014

14:32

For years, chemist Nick Hud struggles to share his work with his Catholic mother, until he finds help from a surprising source. Nicholas Hud was born …

Amy Cuddy: Passing As Myself

April 2nd, 2014

24:00

After a terrible head injury, Amy Cuddy wakes up in the hospital to find she's a different person. Amy Cuddy is a social psychologist and Harvard …

Shannon Cason: The perfect solution

March 26th, 2014

13:25

Shannon Cason turns to science to save his tumultuous marriage. Shannon Cason is a writer and storyteller. He has shared his stories on large stages, …

Deena Walker: Just Like My Sister

March 18th, 2014

15:42

When anxiety begins to overtake her, biology student Deena Walker begins to worry she'll end up just like her mentally ill sister. Deena Walker is a …

Charles van Rees: Suffering For Science

March 12th, 2014

15:12

Charles Van Rees desperately pursues a bird through the desert for the sake of data. Charles van Rees is a conservation biologist and PhD student at …

Amy Dixon: The Caretaker Look

March 4th, 2014

16:31

Amy Dixon is passionate about becoming a hospice nurse, but finds she can't fully understand what the families she works with are going …

Rabiah Mayas: Identical Twins

February 25th, 2014

12:47

An accidental revelation causes Rabiah Mayas to question her identity. Rabiah Mayas, PhD, is madly in love with science and driven by life’s questions, large and small. As Director of Science and Integrated Strategies …

Jesse Dunietz: Star of the science team

February 18th, 2014

16:22

Jesse Dunietz wasn't thrilled to be the one assigned to the music portion of his high school science team -- the one part of the team that was …

Skylar Bayer: Phoning Home From Alvin

February 11th, 2014

15:46

Marine biologist Skylar Bayer faces her fears to go on a deep-ocean dive aboard the Alvin submersible, and ends up getting more than she expected. …

Tonia Pinheiro: Double dose

February 4th, 2014

14:34

Tonia Pinheiro is conflicted when her doctor's instructions seem dangerous. Tonia (tone-ya) Pinheiro is a Wake Up! Artist (sm) and founder of Wake Up! Works and ISEEU Theater. She's a diverse and dynamic improvisational …

Brad Lawrence: The end of the world

January 29th, 2014

13:46

For a young Brad Lawrence, fears of a nuclear apocalypse are put into perspective by his mother, at first intentionally. Brad Lawrence is a host of And I Am Not Lying, Best In Show, and has also hosted for The Moth. He …

Rowena Fletcher-Wood: Diffraction

January 21st, 2014

18:49

As a chemistry student, Rowena Fletcher-Wood has to reconstruct the structure of chemicals, and a relationship with a friend, by interpreting complex data. Rowena Fletcher-Wood is a keen science communicator and …

Kishore Hari: We will rock the Earth

January 13th, 2014

16:35

When Kishore Hari is hired to run a new science festival he thinks he has the perfect plan, but the reality was much more than he expected. Kishore Hari is the Director of the Bay Area Science Festival, an annual …

Julian Parker: A plane nerd

January 6th, 2014

13:31

After abandoning a love of flying, a former military officer gets behind the controls of a plane for the first time. Growing up in an army family, …

Anna Wexler: A crucial choice

December 30th, 2013

15:41

There is one rule more important than any other in an fMRI experiment: no metal. But a stuck piercing makes aspiring neuroscientist Anna Wexler make …

Saad Sarwana: A muslim, a physicist, and a comedian...

December 23rd, 2013

11:08

Pakistan-born physicist Saad Sarwana gets a visit from the FBI. Saad Sarwana grew up in Pakistan, and moved first to Canada and then eventually to …

David Epstein: A turn on the track

December 16th, 2013

13:19

When tragedy strikes his high school friend, David Epstein vows to find out what happened. David Epstein is author of the recent New York Times …

Danielle N. Lee: Working twice as hard

December 9th, 2013

16:06

As a woman of color working in science, Danielle N. Lee has always encountered challenges. But she doesn't expect the email she receives one morning, …

Pete Etchells: The next level

December 1st, 2013

15:52

Psychologist Pete Etchells' father inspired him -- to hate neurons. Pete Etchells is a lecturer in biological psychology at Bath Spa University, UK, …

Craig Lehocky: Do you always talk like that?

November 24th, 2013

15:39

While studying bioengineering, Craig Lehocky discovers he's different from the other students. Craig Lehocky's tinkering runs deep. He currently develops surgical robots as an M.D. / Ph.D. student at CMU and University …

Special Episode - Outtakes! (And a request for help)

November 22nd, 2013

9:15

The Story Collider needs your help! Our initial funding is coming to an end, and we need your help to keep going. It doesn't take a lot, $1/podcast …

Saswato R. Das: Wrong number

November 18th, 2013

17:37

A wrong number to a friend in Sri Lanka leads Saswato Das to the final interview with a famous science fiction writer. Saswato R. Das has written …

Jim O'Grady: You, me, and the monkey

November 10th, 2013

13:12

Jim O'Grady's attempts to woo his housemate are stymied by the monkey she's training to help quadriplegics. Jim O'Grady is a reporter for WNYC Radio and a Moth GrandSLAM champ. He has worked as a reporter for The New …

Deborah Blum: A taste of nature

November 3rd, 2013

15:07

At age 7, Deborah Blum starts a mystery when she interrupts her parent's dinner party. So their guest, famed biologist E.O. Wilson, investigates. …

Victor Hwang: Spacecraft are never late

October 28th, 2013

14:23

What's the worst that can happen when you let a recent college grad command a $330 million spacecraft? Victor Hwang is a New England born nerd. After …

Eliza Strickland: Lost in the deep

October 20th, 2013

17:01

Science writer Eliza Strickland discovers that in the race to the bottom of the Mariana Trench the most important thing is what they leave behind. Eliza Strickland is an editor for the magazine IEEE Spectrum, where she …

Emily Graslie: From landscapes to taxidermy

October 14th, 2013

12:59

How does a landscape artist become the host of a popular science show on YouTube? For Emily Graslie it started with pictures of a wolf head on …

Alan Lightman: More than just the equations

October 6th, 2013

15:02

From a (mostly) successful model rocket launch to a missed opportunity by Richard Feynman, Alan Lightman learns that the equations aren't the whole …

Robin Dessel: Sex and the nursing home

September 29th, 2013

16:31

When two residents of her nursing home fell in love, sexual rights advocate Robin Dessel had to decide how the staff would handle their rendezvous. …

Stephanie Nothelle: A last cup of coffee

September 22nd, 2013

15:12

Stephanie Nothelle loves volunteering at her local nursing home, but she doesn't know what to do when one of the residents says, "I die today" and …

Aviva Hope Rutkin: Sensory substitution

September 15th, 2013

15:17

For her masters thesis in science writing, Aviva Hope Rutkin starts writing about sensory substitution -- a way of swapping in one sense for another. …

Richard Pollack: The wobbly table

September 8th, 2013

16:55

Richard Pollack finds himself moderating an uneasy negotiation between Israelis and Jordanians, as part of an international effort to stem a scourge …

John Rennie: The lab safety officer

September 1st, 2013

19:32

After he's named lab safety officer, John Rennie must recover a precious sample from the bottom of a vat of liquid nitrogen. So he reaches in. John Rennie is a science writer, editor, and lecturer based in New York. …

Darcy Burke: The mountain lion book

August 24th, 2013

14:10

Darcy Burke's mother gave her a book on mountain lions, and it had the effect that every science writer wishes their book will have. Kind of. Every …

Aditi Nadkarni: How to impress your graduate advisor

July 28th, 2013

16:47

As a new, super competitive, graduate student Aditi Nadkarni thinks she has the perfect way to impress her advisor and labmates ... until one night …

Kimberly Rae Miller: Let's fix dad

July 21st, 2013

13:20

Kimberly Rae Miller's family had a secret: her dad was a hoarder. But when she begins digging into the research on hoarding, she finds it's not nearly as simple to fix as she'd hoped. Kimberly Rae Miller is a writer …

Sara Peters and Peter Aguero: Praying for a seizure

July 16th, 2013

18:46

Sara Peters has epilepsy, but no drugs seem to help. So she agrees to be hooked up to a machine at the hospital for days, in hopes of inducing the one thing she and her husband, Peter Aguero, dread the most: a seizure. …

Ben Moskowitz: Cheating the snake

July 15th, 2013

13:04

When Ben Moskowitz gets to take special classes in elementary school, he's excited at first, but then he starts to realize there might be something …

Alex Brown: The nature of time and meningitis

July 7th, 2013

14:09

Science writer Alex Brown's philosophical education becomes very practical when he is diagnosed with meningitis. Every week the Story Collider brings …

Susannah Cahalan: Patient #217

June 30th, 2013

14:07

Three years after a mysterious illness nearly drove her insane and took her life, Susannah Cahalan visits a patient with the same rare, dangerous …

Elna Baker: Nerd day

June 24th, 2013

15:22

Elna Baker's grade school reputation faces it's greatest threat: her engineer father's enthusiasm for homework. Every week the Story Collider brings …

Justin Werfel: Robotics lessons from termites

June 17th, 2013

14:21

A physicist decides that the best way to make progress on his robotics project is to go to Namibia to study termites. Every week the Story Collider …

Seth Mnookin: Science vs. feelings in the fight over vaccines

June 10th, 2013

16:49

Science writer Seth Mnookin set out to write a book on whether vaccines were dangerous, but discovered the issue was more complex than he'd thought. …

Mike Nitabach: I was supposed to be a lawyer

June 3rd, 2013

13:05

As grad school for neuroscience wears on, Michael Nitabach feels the pull of law school, and goes. But he had another surprise coming. Every week the …

Esther Perel: Science & sexuality

May 27th, 2013

11:47

Esther Perel's career gets an unexpected boost from the Bill Clinton/Monica Lewinsky scandal. Every week the Story Collider brings you a true, …

Mara Wilson: A love affair of a lifetime (with science)

May 20th, 2013

16:59

As a kid, Mara Wilson is decidedly uninterested in science, but as she grows up she starts to look for answers in new places. Every week the Story …

Meehan Crist: My mother's brain

May 13th, 2013

22:18

When Meehan Crist was a child, her mother hit her head. It was only as an adult that she discovered that her mother was covering up something far …

Daniela Schiller: A new last memory

May 5th, 2013

14:53

Neuroscientist Daniela Schiller studies the emotional components of memory. In her previous story her research helped her begin to understand her …

Moran Cerf: Being dead while being alive

April 21st, 2013

16:14

Moran Cerf's life is spun around when a computer glitch declares him dead -- but that's nothing compared to what happens when a real funeral comes around.

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Andrew Revkin: My lucky stroke

April 14th, 2013

16:54

When he begins showing strange symptoms on a jog though the mountains, science writer Andrew Revkin discovers just how close to death he is.

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Sarah Everts: Bitten in a foreign country

April 7th, 2013

14:32

While visiting Guatemala Sarah Everts is bitten by a dog, so she goes looking for a rabies shot. But coming home to Canada is when the real problem started.

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Stuart Firestein: A mentor with a nose for science

March 31st, 2013

16:47

After a career as a theater manager, Stuart Firestein takes a biology class, which leads him to a completely new life, and a lot of salamander noses.

Paula Croxson: When your grandmother forgets who you are

March 24th, 2013

14:05

When Paula Croxson began to study memory as a neuroscientist, she also learned a new way of thinking about her grandmother's failing memory.

Learn …

Jess Zimmerman: The Gorilla In the Room

March 16th, 2013

13:38

Writer Jess Zimmerman discovers the dangers of dating a philosopher of neuroscience who thinks he knows what's really happening in her head.

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Jon Ronson: A journalist interviews a robot

March 10th, 2013

16:11

Journalist Jon Ronson is excited when he hears about some 'sentient' robots, but when he goes to interview them he finds both less and more than he ever expected.

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Andre Fenton: The twisting road from basic brain research to helping malaria patients

March 3rd, 2013

15:24

André Fenton always wanted to do research at the most fundamental level -- to uncover basic truths about memory and how it works, never mind how …

Robin & Samantha Henig: The rules of writing with your daughter

February 24th, 2013

15:45

Robin Marantz Henig and her daughter, Samantha, decided to write a book together about life as a twentysomthing. There was just one problem -- how to handle the bits you don't want to talk about with your mother?

Learn …

Colin Jerolmack: How a sociologist became The Pigeon Guy

February 17th, 2013

18:04

Colin Jerolmack was floundering in grad school until he found deep insights into human nature... from pigeons.

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Kelly & Zach Weinersmith: Two nerds fall in love

February 10th, 2013

16:52

Biologist Kelly Smith and comic artist Zach Weiner were having trouble dating, until they met online and realized what they each needed was another …

Anica Rissi: Confessions of a fourth-grade science fraud

February 3rd, 2013

12:38

Anica Rissi realizes the true purpose of her science project: to increase her popularity. But how far is she willing to go?

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Tara Clancy: A bartender from Queens learns theoretical physics

January 27th, 2013

11:25

Tara Clancy's worry over making bad life choices leads her to think about all the things she doesn't know -- and from there, obviously, to theoretical physics.

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Heather Berlin: Can a scientist believe in life after death?

January 20th, 2013

13:22

Her grandmother's death forces neuroscientist Heather Berlin to think hard about what she believes, and why.

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Anna Rothschild: Feeling love in your gut

January 6th, 2013

11:54

Anna Rothschild tells the most adorably gross love story you'll ever hear.

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Robin Abrahams: A rabbit's personality

December 16th, 2012

9:47

A neighbor's gift of two baby rabbits leads Robin Abrahams to a new view of, and fascination with, personality. "Do you not understand that I am a …

Lawrence David: An extreme self-study

December 9th, 2012

15:01

Having lost his ambition to be a scientist, Lawrence David embarks on one more research project -- to collect and study his poop. Every day. For a …

Abby Pond: A quiet moment

December 2nd, 2012

17:05

When her dad is diagnosed with cancer, Abby Pond is sent on a journey home, across the world, and into a new science. "He said, 'Why are you sitting here waiting for me to die. This is dumb.' So he kicked me out."

Learn …

Arran Frood: A therapeutic trip

November 25th, 2012

14:10

Arran Frood is a science writer who specializes in writing about studies of psychedelic drugs, but a routine story turns personal when he finds himself in a study of MDMA and therapy.

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Adam Wade: Volcanic chemistry

November 18th, 2012

14:55

In high school, Adam Wade falls for his lab partner, but is led astray by dreams of golf team greatness.

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Heather Swain: The last hours of a rabid woman

November 11th, 2012

14:03

When Heather Swain is told she has rabies, that turns out to be the least strange part of her experience. "Who wants to grow up saying their mother …

Steve Mirsky: Why would you have a masters in chemistry?

November 5th, 2012

16:40

Questions arise when Steve Mirsky is introduced to his friend's new girlfriend, and he relies on his past experience to help -- specifically his degree in chemistry. "It's almost like you're army buddies.... It's …

Ari Daniel Shapiro: Narwhal tagging in the arctic

October 28th, 2012

16:21

As a grad student, Ari Daniel Shapiro has to tag some narwhals to collect data. The problem: it's in the arctic, the devices have never been tested, …

Brooke Borel: My dog's heart

October 21st, 2012

13:18

A science writer is challenged when her dog comes down with a case of heartworm -- and then the medication goes wrong. "As I'm leaving, the vet says, 'Oh, by the way: Don't go on the internet. It'll only freak you out.'"

Rory Scholl: What I want is to smile again

October 14th, 2012

12:50

Rory Scholl has to show up on day one to a new job -- with a severe case of Bell's Palsy. "When I said this to one of my co-workers I slurred my …

Christine Gentry: Four lessons from my dad

October 7th, 2012

17:46

Christine Gentry's rural, Vietnam vet father rarely talked about important issues, but a series of remarkable moments with animals and nature teach her four lessons she'll never forget. "Lesson number 2: Aint no use …

Diane Kelly: Confronting death on the road

September 30th, 2012

20:53

After turning to a unique field of study -- erections -- Diane Kelly turns to an even more unique source for her research material -- roadkill. "When you open up an animal, there is all kinds of awesome in there."

Learn …

Caroline Howe: A life in trash

September 23rd, 2012

15:29

A trip to India to work for an environmental program leads Caroline Howe to a new passion: trash. "I was the first to arrive, so obviously I was the …

Greg Walloch: A walk in the park

September 16th, 2012

15:09

A late-night excursion to a party turns absurd and then terrifying as Greg Walloch, who has cerebral palsy, can't jump the fence around Tompkins Square Park.

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Sara Peters: Waiting for a seizure

September 9th, 2012

16:05

With her epilepsy medication failing, Sara Peters checks into a hospital with one goal: make the scariest thing in her life happen again.

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Tim Manley: A superhero goes to the hospital

September 2nd, 2012

13:01

As a six-year old, Tim Manley has to go to the hospital with a mysterious illness. Fortunately, he has his superpowers and his trusty sidekick -- his …

Love in a biophysics lab -- in memory of Michelle Dobrawsky

August 30th, 2012

13:30

We just heard the terrible news that Michelle Dobrawsky passed away last night after a long battle with cancer. Michelle was one of our first storytellers and a great friend of the show and we’re devastated by the loss. …

Margot Leitman: The last thing I heard

August 13th, 2012

12:26

Margot Leitman faces down doctors, friends and uncertainty when she suddenly loses hearing in one ear. "If I’ve gone deaf, for real, that means the …

George Lombardi: Don't go in the water

July 29th, 2012

18:29

In the Indian Ocean, doctor George Lombardi makes use of the most important lesson his mother ever taught him: floating. "Let me give you one of the morals early on: No bonding experiences with somebody you're about to …

Madeline Huberth: The turtle and the fish

July 22nd, 2012

10:49

Madeline Huberth confronts the imminent death of a classroom goldfish while navigating the dangerous social waters of junior high. "Why could …

Christopher Roussi: Sufficiently advanced magic

July 15th, 2012

13:11

After becoming ill during a trip to Ecuador, DARPA researcher Chris Roussi seeks medical advice from a local expert: a shaman. "Here I am, an engineer-scientist, and here's this educated man spouting the worst kind of …

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