Shirtloads of Science

Science writer and journalist Marcus Chown returns for a shorter, more philosophical chat. When Einstein first proposed gravitational waves, atoms hadn't even been discovered, so who knows what the next century holds? We dig into the strange idea of the universe's "mathematical twin," and discuss the Standard Model of physics - a brilliant framework, but riddled with holes.

www.marcuschown.com

Science writer and former astrophysicist Marcus Chown joins us to discuss the elusive graviton - the theoretical particle behind gravity. In this chat we dig into the four fundamental forces of nature, why gravity is so uniquely hard to pin down, and why detecting a graviton would require a detector larger than Jupiter. Marcus also unpacks string theory, the only framework that manages to fold gravity in with the other forces, and why it's fallen out of favour with much of the physics community.

www.marcuschown.com/

A bonus episode straight from the audience at Geraint Lewis' book launch for "The Shortest History of Reality." Listeners fire off some big questions: where do we sit with the 95% of the universe we can't explain? What is dark energy? Why does time feel so different experientially? Along with other questions concerning the Theory of Everything, whether light really has a speed, what happens to our mass when we die, consciousness and the Twin paradox!

Join us for a special live episode of Shirtloads of Science, recorded at Willoughby Library for the launch of Professor Geraint Lewis' new book, "The Shortest History of Reality" - a compelling journey tracing the evolution of humanity's understanding of reality. In this live session, Geraint touches on a number of deep and puzzling concepts concerning reality (according to an astrophysicist) - from the baffling fact that 95% of the universe remains a mystery, to the clash between relativity and quantum mechanics, space and time, dark matter and dark energy, the mind-bending one-electron theory, and the ever-elusive Theory of Everything. https://www.geraintflewis.com/

Motor journalist Toby Hagon returns to Shirtloads of Science for round two on electric vehicles. Toby shares how he got into motoring journalism and what the job really involves. We break down 400V vs 800V batteries, charge cycles, and the reality of battery degradation, decode WLTP vs NEDC ratings, and marvel at just how powerful EVs really are. evcentral.com.au outbacktravelaustralia.com.au evcentral.com.au outbacktravelaustralia.com.au

Motor journalist Toby Hagon joins Shirtloads of Science to talk all things electric vehicles. We break down the often-confused difference between kilowatts and kilowatt-hours, compare EVs against petrol cars on performance, energy use, and cost, and explore everything from single to quad-motor setups.

Toby unpacks AC vs DC charging and battery basics, looks at how servicing costs stack up, and separates real EV fire statistics from the hype. This was a big one, so we split it in two - catch part two next week

evcentral.com.au outbacktravelaustralia.com.au

Associate Professor Anai Gonzalez-Cordero joins us on Shirtloads to explore the remarkable world of stem cells and how they can develop into almost any cell in the human body! She explains how her team is using stem cell technology to better understand and develop potential treatments for inherited retinal diseases, including Stargardt disease and Usher syndrome. We also discuss her work at the Children's Medical Research Institute and the importance of supporting genetic research through Jeans for Genes Day (coming up on the 7th of August!)

If you'd like to help fund life-changing genetic research, consider making a donation this Jeans for Genes Day www.cmrijeansforgenes.org.au/

What if evolution isn't just about the survival of the fittest? Rowan Hooper, senior editor at New Scientist, joins Shirtloads to discuss his new book Togetherness - a challenge to the idea that nature is defined purely by competition. From the fig and wasp's ancient partnership to the mycorrhizal fungal networks threading through forest soils, Hooper makes a compelling case that relationships and symbiosis are overlooked fundamental aspects of evolution.

This conversation was originally recorded and published in November, 2024. In light of Richard's passing, we wanted to share it again because his insights remain as inspiring and relevant as ever. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.

Dr. Ann Jones joins me to chat about her hilarious new What the Duck? series, Nature's Most Wanted, which dives into the wild world of criminal animals.

We investigate some of nature's strangest case files… a duck caught speeding (twice), drug-addicted parrots, an underwear-nicking cat, drunk elephants, and heavyweight hamsters!

A funny look at the surprising ways animals collide with the human rules we've created. What The Duck?! Nature's Most Wanted

Marine Ecologist Assoc. Professor Alex Campbell takes us into the wonderful, under-appreciated world of seaweed and makes the case that it might be one of our most powerful allies against climate change!

We dive into seaweed's evolutionary history and the troubling decline now underway: as ocean temperatures rise, marine organisms are shifting toward the poles at a rate of over 60km per decade to escape the heat, with Tasmania's once-thriving giant kelp forests shrinking by a staggering 90% since the 1990s due to devastating changes to their habitat.

But the story isn't all bad news. Seaweed also holds genuine promise as a climate solution - from carbon sequestration and biofuel production, to a renewable alternative to plastic, to livestock feed additives that can dramatically cut methane emissions. Alex makes a compelling case for why this humble marine organisms deserves a much bigger role in how we tackle climate change.

I'm joined by Dr Nick Fuller to dissect the long-term effectiveness of weight loss medications and why lasting results do actually require more than medication alone.

Nick explains why evidence-based behavioural weight management programs remain the first-line approach to weight loss built on three key pillars: diet, exercise and sleep (did you even know that sleep plays a big role in regulating hunger hormones?!) Drawing on his team's research, Nick shares why many people regain weight after stopping medication and why behavioural change is essential for sustainable success (and keeping weight off for good!)

This episode I'm joined by Dr Peter Lee, Head of Research at Microsoft, to explore the ideas shaping the future of technology. Leading 14 research laboratories globally and overseeing a research and development program that receives more than 10% of Microsoft's overall budget, Dr Lee shares his journey to the top of one of the world's largest innovation engines.

From AI tools transforming early cancer detection and predicting protein structures in hours (instead of years!), to discovering new battery materials and improving weather forecasting through deep learning, the conversation reveals how research is moving from possibility to real-world impact. We also explore Microsoft's investment in open-ended innovation, research not driven by immediate products, but by imagining entirely new experiences and technologies. Encrypted Spaces - Microsoft Research | Microsoft Research

In this episode, we speak with Dietmar Müller about the "Boring Billion", a seemingly quiet period in Earth's deep history that may have been crucial for the evolution of complex life. Drawing on his latest research, Müller explains how plate tectonics, passive continental margins, and volcanic outgassing shaped Earth's slow carbon cycle and gradually oxygenated the oceans during the mid-Proterozoic era.

Müller also reflects on how young the science of plate tectonics really is, and discusses the open-source EarthByte tools his team at the University of Sydney has developed to model Earth's ancient geological past. www.earthbyte.org/

Astronomer and soon-to-be Dr. Kovi Rose joins us to discuss his newly published Nature Astronomy paper on one of the universe's newest mysteries: strange repeating flashes of radio waves and X-rays coming form deep within our galaxy! His team's discovery of ASKAP J174 has helped identify the source as a pair of stars orbiting each other, with a white dwarf pulling or accreting material from its companion. This discovery could help unlock the origins of mysterious signals flashing across the sky, unlocking even more secrets of the universe.

Professor Clare Collins returns to the pod to answer a common question: does coffee raise your blood pressure? We also discuss how genetics influence whether you're a fast or slow caffeine metaboliser, the beneficial phytonutrients found in coffee, why decaf still has health benefits, and when people with high blood pressure may need to be more cautious with their intake. nomoneynotime.com.au

Friend of the pod Professor Clare Collins returns to dive down into the sticky depths of the surprisingly powerful world of honey - far beyond being "just a sugary liquid". From the hallucinogenic "mad honey" of the Rhododendrons to the science behind medical-grade honey dressings that can heal wounds days faster than conventional treatments, Dr. Clare explains why this ancient food deserves a second look.

We dive into honey's beneficial micronutrients, anti-inflammatory properties, and why the nutritional profile can vary dramatically depending on where bees source their pollen. Clare also busts the myth that honey is "bee vomit", revealing the fascinating biology behind how bees actually make honey and why these incredible insects deserve our respect!

nomoneynotime.com.au

What is the universe actually made of? Particle physicist Theresa Fruth join us at Shirtloads to explore one of science's greatest unsolved mysteries - dark matter! Making up roughly 85% of the universe, yet appearing in none of our known particles, dark matter is invisible, elusive and almost certainly the reason the universe (and us!) exist at all.

Theresa and her team are hunting for it anyway. Working 1.2 kilometres underground in a converted gold mine in regional Victoria, they're searching for WIMPs - weakly interacting massive particles - in one of the quietest, most interference-free environments on Earth. The lab is being built out now, and further experiments are on the horizon. We may be closer to one of the biggest discoveries in scientific history than we realise.

Professor Ollie Jay, a leading expert in heat and health, returns to Shirtloads to discuss the growing toll of climate change on human wellbeing and global economics. Insights drawn from the latest Lancet Countdown report show that over half a million people die from heat-related causes each year, and a million more from fossil fuel pollution - deaths that are largely preventable.

Rising temperatures are quietly reshaping our daily lives, from reducing physical and cognitive productivity, to costing the global economy an estimated trillion dollars annually. But it's not all bleak - Professor Jay highlights that meaningful change is within reach. With the right political action and long-term interventions, we can protect both public health and economic stability - the solutions are already in our hands.

In this episode, we speak with Professor Emmanuel Stamatakis about Vigorous Intermittent Lifestyle Physical Activity (VILPA) - short bursts of high-intensity movement built into everyday life, like walking briskly or carrying groceries. With only a quarter of adults exercising regularly, his research highlights how incidental activity, when done with enough intensity, can offer meaningful health benefits.

We discuss how VILPA is grounded in observational research and the idea of "exercise snacks" which describes quick, accessible moments of effort that add up. The focus is on helping people recognise and maximise these daily opportunities to improve fitness and support long-term health.

We're living through the great Space Boom and with great innovation comes a lot of whacky ideas... Astronomer and Associate Professor Michael Brown from Monash University joins me to discuss stupid things in space. The conversation dives into some of the more bizarre and ambitious ideas circulating the space industry, from firing villains and radioactive waste in to the sun to deploying giant orbital mirrors to light up Earth's dark side. Brown breaks down why many of these concepts are far less practical than they sound. With over 15,000 satellites circling earth, Brown also examines the promises and downsides of mega-constellations like Starlink, including how they operate and the challenges they pose for astronomers and the environment.

It's a fascinating and critical peek in to the intersection of innovation, risk, and imagination in the new space age.

In this episode I sit down with Professor Conny Aerts, a pioneering mathematician and founding figure of astroseismology, who reveals how scientists are "listenting" to stars to understand what's happening deep inside them. From oscillating stars to solar sunquakes, she explains how sound waves can measure the sun's size, age and activity.

Beyond the science, she shares her remarkable journey from a small rural town in Belgium where she had to attend an all-boys school, the only school near her family home. She was expected to become a seamstress but Conny's dreams were beyond this planet, leading her on a path toward becoming a highly acclaimed asteroseismologist.

We're scared to say the D word! But why is talking about death such a taboo? Dr. Hannah Gould, a cultural anthropologist at the University of Melbourne, joins me to discuss the topic in the wake of the release of her new book 'How To Die in the 21st Century'. The discussion dives in to the modern experience of dying, from the pressures of having a 'good death' to the reality of overly medicalised, 'prolonged dwindling'. Hannah unpacks how death isn't just biological but also cultural and legal, raising the question: When does death officially occur? The conversation is an invitation to rethink death - not as something to fear, but as something we can approach with openness, intention, and maybe even a sense of celebration

https://www.hannahgould.com/

When a problem with the James Webb Space Telescope left its images frustratingly out of focus, the solution wasn't fixed in space... it was fixed from Earth. At the University of Sydney, PhD students Dr. Louis Desdoigts and Max Charles spent two years rewriting and refining code to recalibrate a critical instrument designed by Professor Peter Tuthill: the Aperture Masking Interferometer.

Their breakthrough sharpened the telescope's infrared vision unlocking clearer views of distant worlds, including volcanic activity on Io, one of Jupiter's moons. In a fitting tribute, the pair even got matching tattoos of the hardware they helped fix! Not only did their work restore clarity to one of humanity's most powerful observatories, it also saved NASA the immense cost and impossibility of repairing the telescope in space.

This episode features Dr. Linzi Wilson-Wilde and Hannah Jarman discussing the realities of forensic science beyond shows like CSI. Through cases such as the Phantom of Heilbronn case and Lindy Chamberlain-Creighton, they explore how flawed evidence and forensic myths have contributed to wrongful convictions. They also examine common misconceptions around techniques like bite mark analysis, fire investigation, and glass evidence. The conversation emphasises the importance of approaching forensic science holistically, recognising it as just one piece of the broader investigative puzzle. www.epistemicsolutions.com.au/

Pharmacist and science communicator Kate Thomas shares how a viral debunking video launched her into the world of online health education. In this episode we explore the booming "wellness woo" economy and sift through the weeds on why misleading short-form content spreads so easily and the risks of unregulated wellness influencers. Kate breaks down the truth about supplements, the power of placebo, and why accessible, personalised health advice is so hard to find online. She also highlights the important role pharmacists play in helping consumers make informed choices.

TikTok & Instagram: @PrescribeOrPass Linkedin: Kate Thomas

***Prof Lucas would like to provide the following clarification in regards to comments relating to prenatal BPA exposure and male autism spectrum disorder: "A positive association between high prenatal BPA exposure and ASD diagnosis was only seen in male offspring with a genetic predisposition to low aromatase enzyme activity." Professor Michaela Lucas, an Immunologist and Immunopathologist researching the health impacts of plastics, joins me to explore what microplastics and plastic-associated chemicals may be doing inside our bodies. We discuss how compounds like bisphenols and phthalates can act like hormone-mimicking molecules, the evidence linking plastic exposure to developmental and fertility concerns, and why some estimates of microplastics in the body may have been overstated. Professor Lucas also shares insights from her ongoing study in Perth examining how everyday exposures, particularly ultra-processed foods packaged in plastic, may contribute to microplastics in the body. Listeners can subscribe to receive the study results when they're released via www.uwa.edu.au/projects/the-perth-trial.

Linkedin: @prof-michaela-lucas/

I'm joined by Dr. Anna Broinowski - Senior Lecturer and Director of the Master of Film and Screen Arts at Sydney College of the Arts, University of Sydney - to unpack the rise of deepfakes and synthetic media.

We discuss the emergence of deepfake pornography in 2017, the fact that around 90% of deepfake content targets women and girls, and the growing use of AI in propaganda. From political manipulation to fake ads impersonating me (!), this episode explores how deepfakes are eroding trust, and what that means for the future of media, filmmaking and truth more broadly.

Nitrous oxide (better known as "laughing gas") is widely used in medicine as a safe anaesthetic and pain reliever. It's also found in whipped cream canisters and even used in car engines. But Angela Chiew, toxicologist and Associate Professor at UNSW, joins me to set the record straight: the growing recreational misuse of this easily accessible gas is causing serious long-term harm, including nerve damage, cognitive damage, weakening of the spinal cord and mobility impairments. Cases of misuse are rising globally, likely driven by how easy it is to legally purchase the drug in many countries. This episode unpacks the hidden dangers behind a gas many once thought was just a harmless high. Linkedin: Angela Chiew X: AngelaChiewA

In the final episode of the Great AI Safety Debrief series with Dr. Petr Lebedev, we discuss job eradication, AI alignment and the rise in cases of AI deceiving humans. Petr unpacks ideas like AI scheming, situation awareness, parasitic relationships between humans and machines, and even the possibility of AI developing belief systems of its own. We end by zooming out to existential risk, Alan Turing's early warnings, and why aligning AI with human values may be one of the most difficult (and urgent) challenges humanity must face.

Linkedin: Petr Lebedev palisaderesearch.org/

In part two, Dr. Petr Lebedev and I dive deeper into how modern AI systems are grown, not programmed, and the emergence of Shutdown Resistance. We explore AI performance in math and coding competitions, the rapid evolution of ChatGPT models, and why companies are already letting AI write the majority of their code. Petr explains how huge investments globally are pushing these systems forward faster than we can fully understand or control. The final episode in this 3 part series drops next week! Linkedin: Petr Lebedev palisaderesearch.org/

Intelligence is emerging from sand and less than 1% of the population seems to care! Physicist and science communicator Dr. Petr Lebedev joins the podcast following his SXSW talk to explore the rapid advancement of AI and how it's dramatically shifting the global status quo. From completing a PhD in physics and writing for Veritasium, to leading science communication at Palisade Research, Petr steps in to bring some clarity to the weird, wild, and worrying sides of AI. Did you know that no one truly understands how large language models actually work? We go deep on misaligned systems, humanoid and dog robots, and why many experts believe AI could pose a serious global risk. Is AI our greatest tool? Or something we're slowly losing control of? This conversation is big, so we've split it into three parts. Part two drops next week.

A mysterious glow from the centre of the Milky Way has scientists intrigued. Astrophysicist Geraint Lewis explains how this gamma-ray excess, first detected in 2009, could be evidence of dark matter particles interacting deep in our galaxy. With dark matter believed to make up a vast, invisible halo that holds galaxies together, uncovering the source of this glow may bring us closer to understanding what the universe is really made of.

www.geraintflewis.com/ Linkedin: geraint-lewis-4a499b1

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Andy Reisinger, an internationally recognised expert in climate change science and policy, with a focus on mitigation and agricultural emissions. Together, we unpack the concept of climate overshoot - why the world is set to exceed the 1.5°C warming limit within the next five years, and what that means for people and the planet. Dr. Reisinger explores whether the damage already done is reversible, what it would take to get back on track, and, hypothetically, the bold actions he would take if he had the power to drive real societal change to combat climate change. Linkedin: Andy Reisinger

Consumer technology expert Ashley Iredale returns for part two, bringing more surprising facts about everyday household appliances. We break down why your fridge actually contains more heaters than coolers, demystify the Energy Star rating system, and settle the debate on whether front-loading or top-loading washers are more efficient at cleaning clothes.

This episode i'm joined by Ashley Iredale, a consumer technologist and content producer whose winding career through industrial design has armed him with a trove of quirky tips and practical wisdom. Ashley breaks down the real efficiency of hand-washing versus dishwashers, explains how a dishwasher can double as an oven, and settles the age-old question of how toilet paper should hang. We also dig into his non-linear career journey and how it led to his deep well of surprising insights. There was so much to cover that Part Two lands next week!

Linkedin: Ashley Iredale

In this episode, I'm joined by the legendary Dame Susan Jocelyn Bell Burnell - the pioneering astrophysicist who discovered pulsars, launching an entirely new field of astrophysics. She began her PhD searching for quasars, but soon noticed a strange, repetitive signal appearing night after night - so peculiar she jokingly labelled it LGM ("Little Green Men"). That signal would become one of the most important astronomical discoveries of the century, though the credit and Nobel Prize were controversially awarded to her supervisor. Dr Bell Burnell also shares why she donated $4.3 million of her own prize money to support underrepresented researchers in physics, especially women and girls, and the work she's doing to make the field more inclusive. We dive into her views on religion, her life in science since that landmark discovery, and her mission to help more young women pursue careers in physics.

This week I'm joined by John Staton, one of Australia's leading sunscreen-testing experts, to unpack the big headlines surrounding sunscreen safety. A recent Choice report revealed that 16 out of the 20 tested sunscreen products failed to meet their advertised SPF rating by a significant figure. John helps us to understand what is really going on. He breaks down how sunscreens actually work and the science behind SPF testing and why so many products fell short.

In this episode, friend of the show and astrophysicist Professor Geraint Lewis returns to help me wrap my head around one of the strangest ideas in modern physics: Time Crystals.

After stumbling across a Nature article that left my brain pleasantly scrambled, I called up Geraint for a deep-dive into what time crystals are and why physicists are so excited about them. We explore why Time Crystals don't have real-world applications yet, but how they could open entirely new frontiers in future technology.

In this episode, futurist and award-winning scientist Dr Catherine Ball dives into the state of science in Australia, uncovering the good, the bad, and the overlooked. From humanoid robotics and wearable exoskeletons transforming healthcare, to Australia's lagging space economy, Ball offers an unflinching look at where we stand. She also highlights world-class cancer detection research happening in Australia, like PROCAN and early ovarian cancer screening innovations that deserve far more recognition. Passionate about inspiring the next generation, Ball shares her advice for young Australians ready to shape the future of science ww.drcatherineball.com/

In this episode, I'm joined by Professor Clare Collins, Australian dietitian and Professor of Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Newcastle. Clare is my go-to expert when it comes to all things nutrition, and today she's here to unpack the often confusing world of processed and ultra-processed foods.

We dive into what really separates the two, explore the role of additives, emulsifiers, and flavour enhancers, and discuss how some of these ingredients, designed to make foods more appealing, may be doing our health more harm than good. Plus, she shares practical, no-nonsense tips to help you make smarter choices next time you're wandering the grocery aisles.

Check out Clare's free online resource, No Money No Time, for simple, budget-friendly recipes and nutrition advice - nomoneynotime.com.au/ Follow Clare on X: @ProfCCollins and LinkedIn: Clare Collins.

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Renee Goreham, a physicist and nanotechnologist at the University of Newcastle, and passionate science communicator. Renee is an experimental physicist exploring how our breath could hold the key to detecting lung cancer early—by identifying specific proteins as biomarkers. We also delve into her PhD student's exciting research into a new red-light laser diagnostic tool for breast cancer. Along the way, Renee breaks down the basics of cell biology and shares her inspiring, non-linear journey through physics, nanotech, and beyond. A brilliant example of multidisciplinary science in action.

Follow Renee on TikTok: @dr_renee_goreham

In this episode, we speak with Associate Professor Leszek Lisowski, Head of the Translational Vectorology Unit at the Children's Medical Research Institute (CMRI), about the cutting-edge world of gene therapy. He explains how viral vectors are engineered to deliver life-saving treatments for rare genetic diseases - many of which are so uncommon, they're only known by the name of the affected gene. Despite being often overlooked, genetic diseases impact 10% of adults and 30% of children in hospitals. Leszek sheds light on the challenges of diagnosis, the promise of emerging genetic testing, and how his work is paving the way for more accurate, effective therapies.

Linkedin: Children's Medical Research Institute, Leszek Lisowski

Facebook: @jeansforgenes

Instagram: @jeansforgenesau

In this episode, we're joined by Associate Professor Sharna Jamadar, a cognitive neuroscientist at Monash University, to explore how the brain uses energy, and how that changes across the lifespan. Did you know that a 10-year-old's brain uses over 50% of the body's total energy, compared to just 20% in adults? We dive into why younger brains work harder, the role of synaptic pruning and proliferation, and how the brain's organisation impacts cognitive efficiency. We also touch on the importance of glucose metabolism and its connection to age-related disorders like Alzheimer's. A fascinating look at the energy demands of our most complex organ!

Bluesky: @SharnaJamadar Linkedin: Sharna Jamadar www.sharnajamadar.com Email: Sharna.jamadar@monash.edu

My go-to guy for all cosmic things Prof. Geraint Lewis, astrophysicist at the University of Sydney, returns to unpack a fascinating New York Times article on a newly observed "onionlike" space explosion that may reveal a new type of supernova. We dive into what actually happens when a star dies, the onion-layer buildup of elements through nuclear fusion, and how these cataclysmic blasts forge the building blocks of life on Earth. Plus, we explore what this might mean for the ultimate fate of our own Sun. www.geraintflewis.com/ Linkedin: Geriant Lewis

In this episode, friend of the show Geriant Lewis, Professor of Astrophysics at the Sydney Institute for Astronomy within the University of Sydney, joins us to unpack a fascinating New Scientist article theorising on how a strange line of dwarf galaxies may have formed. We explore how high-speed collisions between dwarf galaxies can scatter gas and stars across space, sometimes giving rise to entirely new tidal galaxies. Geraint explains the latest thinking on where these dwarf galaxies come from and how these cosmic smash-ups might even shed light on one of the biggest mysteries in physics: the true nature of dark matter. www.geraintflewis.com/ Linkedin: Geriant Lewis Bluesky: cosmic_horizons

In part two, Associate Professor Marian-Andrei Rizoiu from the University of Technology Sydney explains how misinformation and toxic online cultures spread. We dive into the "manosphere pipeline" targeting boys as young as 10, its real-world impacts on schools and families, and how it can escalate into radicalisation. Rizoiu outlines his team's six-stage pipeline - from passive curiosity to active involvement - and why simply giving people facts doesn't solve the problem. Instead, this is a human challenge, and his lab is exploring new ways to diffuse and counter online misinformation before it turns dangerous. Linkedin: Marian-Andrei Rizoiu

In this episode, I sit down with Marian-Andrei Rizoiu, Associate Professor and head of the Behavioral Data Science Lab at the University of Technology Sydney. Drawing on a three-year research project into the misinformation ecosystem, he reveals that online conspiracies aren't just about false facts. Instead, they meet deep human needs for belonging and identity.

We explore the idea that misinformation is less a content problem and more a human problem, fueled by the attention economy. Rizoiu also weighs in on the growing debate around restricting social media use, such as proposed bans for under-16s, unpacking the potential benefits and drawbacks.

Keep your ears peeled for Part 2 next week Linkedin: Marian-Andrei Rizoiu

In this episode, we sit down with two of today's most prominent defenders of science: Professor Michael Mann, world-renowned climate scientist, and Professor Peter Hotez, vaccine researcher and advocate for global health equity. Together, they've co-authored Science Under Siege, a powerful new book exposing the forces behind the global anti-science movement.

We explore the surprising parallels between climate denial and vaccine misinformation, and how both Mann and Hotez have faced personal attacks simply for standing by the evidence. They break down the five key drivers of anti-science - plutocrats, professionals, propagandists, petrostates, and the press - and reveal how these forces shape public discourse and policy.

This conversation is not just about diagnosing the problem, but about pathways forward: the urgent role of science communication, strategies to counter misinformation, and reasons to remain hopeful in the fight to reclaim trust in science.

www.michaemann.net

www.peterhotez.org

www.scribepublications.com.au/books-authors/books/science-under-siege-9781761381669

In part two of our conversation with Professor Carolyn Hogg, Research Manager of the Australasian Wildlife Genomics Group at the University of Sydney, we dive deeper into the science and strategy behind threatened species management.

Carolyn shares how her team is developing crucial genetic data to guide conservation, including breed-and-release programs with species like the Tasmanian devil. We discuss the vital role of biodiversity in sustaining planetary health, and the ambitious Earth Biogenome Project, which aims to map the genomes of all 12 million species of eukaryotic life on Earth.

Beyond the lab, Carolyn reveals how genetic insights are shaping real-world decisions—bridging the gap between cutting-edge science, social change, and the policies that determine the future of our ecosystems. Linkedin: Carolyn Hogg X: @HoggCarolyn, @BioplatformsAus, @ThreatenedSpGen https://wildlife-genomics.sydney.edu.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/bioplatforms-australia/

From collecting urine samples in Antarctica to sampling whale snot to study reproduction, Dr. Carolyn Hogg's career is anything but ordinary. In this episode, she shares how her passion for protecting threatened species led her down some unexpected paths, including earning the nickname 'Dr. Snot'.

We chat about her PhD on whale behaviour, wild whale facts, and the creative ways scientists gather data in the field. There was so much to cover, we had to split it into two! Part 2 dives into her groundbreaking work in conservation genetics.

Linkedin: Carolyn Hogg X: @HoggCarolyn, @BioplatformsAus, @ThreatenedSpGen https://wildlife-genomics.sydney.edu.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/bioplatforms-australia/

In this episode, Professor PJ Cullen, Chemical Engineering expert from the University of Sydney, breaks down the global nitrogen challenge. We explore why nitrogen is essential for life, the history of fertiliser - from the Guano Wars to the energy-intensive Haber-Bosch process - and how today's nitrogen production is harming the planet. Cullen introduces PlasmaLeap, his startup using non-thermal plasma to mimic lightning and fix nitrogen sustainably. We also dive into the risks of nitrogen storage, the 2020 Beirut explosion, and the urgent need to electrify chemical industries.

https://www.plasmaleap.com/ Linkedin: PJ Cullen

In part two with Online Safety Consultant Troy Hunt (Have I Been Pwned), we unpack the risks of online age verification in light of Australia's social media ban, including the personal data (often times photos or government documents) sites may demand, and how these security practices can be questionable. Troy explains why we should be thinking more about data minimisation and the dangers of unnecessary data retention. We go through the safest multi-factor authentication methods, from SMS to physical keys, and Troy shares a personal phishing story, reminding us that no-one is immune to hacking thanks to increasingly sophisticated phishing techniques. https://haveibeenpwned.com/ Linkedin: Troy Hunt

In this episode, we're joined by Troy Hunt, Australian online security consultant, creator of Have I Been Pwned, and one of the world's leading voices on data breaches. He breaks down the key differences between encryption and hashing, and what they mean for keeping your data safe. We dive into infamous data breaches, including the Ashley Madison case, and explore the often hidden, long-term impacts these leaks can have on people's lives. With online scams and breaches costing Australians over $3 billion every year, we also look at the rising threat of ransomware and why it's so hard to fight. This conversation opened so many cans of worms, we had to save the rest for part two. https://haveibeenpwned.com/ Linkedin: Troy Hunt

In this episode, we sit down with Australian climate scientist Professor Sarah Perkins-Kirkpatrick to explore the story of climate science, how we first discovered the planet was warming, and what we now know about the forces driving it. Sarah breaks down the role of carbon dioxide in trapping heat like a planetary blanket and shares insights from her cutting-edge research on long-term climate modelling. What would happen if we stopped emitting CO₂ today? The answers are sobering, yet they also offer hope, underscoring why optimism remains essential in the fight for a livable future.

Linked in: Sarah Perkins-Kirkpatrick

https://www.21centuryweather.org.au/

I had the honor of sitting down with Professor Donna Strickland, Nobel Prize-winning physicist the third woman in history to receive the prestigious award in physics. In our conversation, we discuss her groundbreaking work in laser physics and the journey that led her there. From her early academic interests to the moment she received the life-changing call from the Royal Swedish Academy at 5AM (?!), Donna shares insights into her discovery of chirped pulse amplification (CPA), a revolutionary technique that changed the field of high-intensity lasers. We discuss the science behind CPA and the moment she accidentally broke the fibre optic cable required for her PhD research. Donna reflects on the role of perseverance, collaboration, and the underestimated metric of "luck" in scientific discovery.

I'm joined by Dr. Heather Ford, ARC Future Fellow and Professor in the School of Communications at UTS, to explore the fascinating world of Wikipedia. Inspired by her article "We analysed 35,000 Wikipedia entries about Australian places. Some of them sanitise history" in The Conversation, we dive deep into the strengths and shortcomings of one of the internet's most beloved resources.

We unpack how Wikipedia works behind the scenes: who edits it, how "edit wars" break out, and why it remains such a radical platform — a place where history can be written in real time, sometimes even before events unfold.

Together, we question whether Wikipedia offers an honest account of Australia's past, particularly when it comes to Indigenous history.

This is a two-parter so be sure to tune in next week for part 2.

Connect with Dr. Heather Ford on Linkedin https://hblog.org/

In part two of my conversation with Dr. Graham Wild, we dive deeper into the fascinating world of hypersonic machines. We explore how sound waves behave at extreme speeds, the significance of the boundary layer, and what materials are best suited for these ultra-fast aircraft.

Connect with Dr. Graham Wild on LinkedIn

Twitter/X: @AerospaceDoctor

Aviation expert Dr. Graham Wild returns to take us beyond the basics of flight and into the high-speed world of subsonic vs. hypersonic aircraft. We break down the engine mechanics behind these incredible machines, and I squeeze in a humblebrag about sitting in an SR-71 (yes, okay, it was grounded).

It's a theory-packed episode, so we've split it into two parts. Catch Part 2 next week.

Connect with Dr. Graham Wild on Linkedin Twitter/ X - @aerospacedoctor

In 2020, Scientific American made waves with the provocative headline: "No One Can Explain Why Planes Stay in the Air." But is that really true? Dr. Graham Wild, senior lecturer in aviation science and technology at the University of New South Wales in Canberra, joins us to set the record straight.

In this episode, we dip our toes into the complex of flight. We scratch at the very surface of the topic in an episode that could easily take over 20 hours.

Connectt with Dr. Graham Wild on Linkedin Twitter/ X - @aerospacedoctor

Most of us throw our clothes in the wash without a second thought, but what if that habit is doing more harm than good? In this episode, Dr. Holly Kaye-Smith, social change expert and communications specialist, challenges the way we think about cleanliness, climate action, and everyday laundry.

From surprising stats (over 90% of washed clothes aren't even dirty!) to the hidden environmental cost of every wash cycle, we dive into the myths, microplastics, and mindsets that shape our laundering routines. Holly shares practical refreshing techniques that save water, and why she recommends everyone have a "rewear chair." Connect with Dr Holly Kaye Smith on Linkedin Instagram - www.instagram.com/drhollyphd/ Youtube - www.youtube.com/@drhollyphd

Are ice baths really the recovery miracle they're made out to be? We plunge into the science with Dr. Hunter Bennett, lecturer at the University of South Australia, exploring the pros and cons of ice baths, when they're helpful, and when they might actually hinder your gains. We also unpack health misinformation online and Dr Hunter shares five evidence-based tips for anyone curious about cold plunges.

Connect with Dr Hunter Bennett on Linkedin Dr Bennett's article on Ice Baths in The Conversation https://theconversation.com/ice-baths-are-popular-for-exercise-recovery-and-general-wellness-but-what-does-the-science-say-250649

Dr. Brooke Nickel dives into the murky world of health misinformation on social media, exposing how overdiagnosis and unverified health claims are thriving in a mostly unregulated space. We explore the influence of online personalities, the power of personal anecdotes, and the urgent need for evidence-based guidance in digital health conversations.

🔗 Connect with Dr. Brooke Nickel on LinkedIn

Award-winning author and investigative journalist Alice Driver joins me to discuss her powerful new book, Life and Death of the American Worker. Her investigation exposes the deeply unethical practices within the meatpacking industry in the United States.

For Alice, this story is personal. She grew up in Arkansas, one of the country's poorest states and home to Tyson Foods, the largest meatpacking plant in America.

We delve into the harsh realities faced by the industry's workforce, many of whom are undocumented immigrants, with estimates suggesting that up to 30% of the labor force lacks legal status. Our conversation explores the severe health consequences these workers endure and the broader implications for workers' rights in America today.

Find Alice's book at https://www.alicedriver.com/ IG: @alice__driver

In this episode, Prof. Boris Kuhlmey and Prof. Peter Tuthill join me to discuss the Toliman Mission, a space telescope project focused on detecting Earth-like exoplanets around Alpha Centauri, our nearest star system, using precise astrometric measurements. We discuss logistics, the costs involved and the success rate of such an astronomical project.

Developed by a collaboration including the University of Sydney, NASA's JPL, and Breakthrough Initiatives, it aims to launch by 2026.

University of Sydney, Faculty of Science

Toliman: https://toliman.space/

Boris Kuhlmey www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/our-people/academic-staff/boris-kuhlmey.html linkedin: https://au.linkedin.com/in/boris-kuhlmey-48b45615 Peter Tuthill www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/our-people/academic-staff/peter-tuthill.html Bluesky: https://blueskydirectory.com/profiles/spiralstar.bsky

Almost all of the regional and remote communities in Queensland do not have fluoridated drinking water, so why is this a problem? Dentist Dr Michael Foley debunks the infamous NTP report which suggested that fluoridated drinking water lowered IQ and breaks down how fluoride actually works and why it's so important for our dental health.

Dr Karl uncovers a lifelong Australian quest to restore comfort and hearing with custom made eardrum transplants. Called Cleardrums, Professor Marcus Atlas is close to passing regulatory hurdles for human trials. Ep407 [Repeat]

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Dr Karl (former father of the year) talks with Dr Nick Fuller (recent dad) about teaching children how to eat. The good habits learned early lead to healthy lives. Ep396 [Repeat]

Healthy Parents Healthy Kids by Nick Fuller

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Why use a balloon to hunt the most elusive suff in the Universe? Dr Sirks takes Dr Karl through the history of Dark Matter and why astronomy is only part of the solution. Ep379 [Repeat]

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Dr Sirks

Atmospheric Carbon is burning us up. CO₂ is the big culprit but what about methane? Industry calls it "natural gas" but sheep and cattle belch millions of tons. Australian scientists have a very cool answer with seaweed.

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seaforest.com.au

Weight loss medicines are never easy. What happens when your brain says you're full? Dr Karl and Professor Clare Collins explore the promises and pitfalls plus the ones that occasionally kill.

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Dr Karl consults with circular economy expert, experienced waste manager, change maker and garbologist Belinda Chellingworth. Waste is expensive so well-designed product cycles makes it better for us all. drkarl.com

BC Consulting

Dr Karl talks with the Australian working on the surface of Mars, Dr Adrian Brown from NASA. Hear how AI saved "Percy" the Rover, what those leopard-spotted rocks could mean and Dust devil strategies.

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Dr Adrian J Brown

In this repeat episode, Dr Karl uncovers a lifelong Australian quest to restore comfort and hearing with custom made eardrum transplants. Called Cleardrums, Professor Marcus Atlas is close to passing regulatory hurdles for human trials.

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Prof Puckett from the US explains how America lost its fire ant war and Jess Ward-Jones on the struggle to learn what is killing our Alpine Eucalypts (Snow Gums).

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Our warming world means more humidity. You can't see it but you can feel it. Professor Ollie Jay introduces Dr Karl to wet bulb thermometers, how sweating works and why humidity gets you down.

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Prof Ollie Jay

Author and astrophysicist Marcus Chown tells of the forgotten Australian female astronomer who helped discover the first black hole. Dr Karl digs deeper into Marcus' latest book on black holes "A Crack in Everything".

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@marcuschown

Author and astrophysicist Marcus Chown is a great explainer. A British stargazer, he studied under Richard Feynman in California. Dr Karl puts him to the test talking about Marcus' latest book on black holes "A Crack in Everything".

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@marcuschown

When Artificial Intelligence is everywhere what should be the rules? Dr Karl and Natasha Blycha test Isaac Asimov's Laws of Robotics and find they need updating.

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Stand-up comedian, ex-maths teacher and author Matt Parker chats about his bestselling book on three-sided figures called Love Triangle. Dr Karl explores what fascinates us about trigonometry.

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matt parker

What will our human space colonies look like? Dr Karl checks with research spanning more than 10,000 years. Meet University of Sydney's Professor Roland Fletcher.

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Prof Fletcher

Feelings live in our brain. Some are painful like anxiety and addiction and can ruin lives. So why aren't hypnotherapy treatments more widely used? Dr Karl asks Stanford University psychiatrist and leading researcher on hypnosis Dr David Spiegel with 50 year's experience.

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Dr Spiegel

Dr Frederic Bertley is a leading educator, President and CEO of the Center for Science and Industry (COSI), one of America's top-ranked science museums. Dr Karl explores tactics in the war on Pseudo and Anti-science.

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Cosi.org

Global Warming is caused by burning fossil fuels. "Slick: Australia's Toxic Relationship With Big Oil " is journalist Royce Kurmelovs' account of our role. Dr Karl and Royce and explore how the science was silenced Down Under.

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Summer heat waves are increasing - so AC or fan, what is best? The answer becomes unclear when air temperatures are in the high 30s. Professor Jay takes Dr Karl inside your sweat glands to discover the physics of keeping cool.

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Prof Ollie Jay

Physics on both galactic and personal scales are explored and answered with Dr Jessica Bloom and Dr Karl.

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We are so lucky to be alive. Dr Sara Webb's 'The Little book of Cosmic Catastrophes' looks at dangerous galactic neighbours. So what are the chances of finding Earth 2.0 ?

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dr sara webb

A shameless piece of cross promotion for ABC podcast 'What the Duck' with Dr Ann Jones about plant and animal reproduction. Contains names of body parts, fluids, graphic descriptions and one swear word.

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What the duck podcasts

Professor Richard Scolyer is the 2024 joint Australian of the Year. Dr Karl probes skin cancer therapies and immunotherapies with a researcher who has put his life on the line.

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https://twitter.com/ProfRScolyerMIA

https://www.facebook.com/ProfRScolyer

https://www.instagram.com/profrscolyer/?hl=en

Phones made today are super smart. Fast and versatile they can be so powerful to be spooky. Dr Matt joins Dr Karl to peel back the AI layers for a set of rules for the future.

Mining Engineer, Reality TV star, Astrophysicist, Author - What's left for Dr Matt?

If we need to fully understand space we need more time - lots of it. Beyond the Hubble sphere things gets lumpy.

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Dr Karl asks a fellow physicist for the telltale signs when powerful people spread untruths. They are easy to spot and nasty.

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The graph points skywards. A thousand of years of data says "stop burning carbon". Prof Mann tells Dr Karl of how the USA responded to his articles in the early 1990s.

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Dr Karl interviews Dr Bloom in NYC on the ethics of Artificial Intelligence. If AI delivers misinformation, how could we tell?

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At the moment there are two G's in AI. Dr Karl gets the 360 tour of both with Dr Jessica Bloom in New York City.

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Edwin Hubble is world famous. What about Henrietta Swan Leavitt? She found a way to measure and classify the universe. In Dava's book "The Glass Universe" she references the half million glass slides Henrietta and other women used to document both the northern and southern skies.

Observe, Ask, Explain, Predict , Test. These are the steps scientists use to improve our knowledge. Dr. Suzie Sheehy is a particle physicist. She talks with Dr Karl about twelve significant experiments that changed the modern world. Ep288 [Repeat]

https://drkarl.com https://suziesheehy.com