Unbiased Science

On this week's episode of the pod, we give an update on the state of Covid-19, the latest statistics, and trends. We briefly review transmission routes and high-risk behaviors, as well as the different types of tests currently available. We try to drive home that tests should never be used as immunity passes! We give an update on our most promising vaccine candidates and remind you that though it'...

On this week's episode of the pod, we continue our discussion of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). We debunk common misconceptions and myths about GMOs, particularly with regard to the food industry. We spend some time discussing the labeling of foods as "non-GMO" and the different genetic modification techniques included under this umbrella term. We address the common misconception (that we...

On this week’s episode, we are shifting gears to talk about GMOs. We set the stage by discussing the meaning of the term genetically modified (GM), and some of the different ways organisms are genetically modified, including historical methods such as selective breeding and hybridization. We provide an introduction into genetics and the idea of traits that can be inherited, and how that paved the...

On this week's episode, we apply what we discussed about research studies, specifically clinical trials, to COVID-19 research into vaccines and treatments. We quickly review the phases of clinical trials, and provide a brief overview of the number of vaccine trials in each phase currently. We outline in more detail some key phase 3 vaccine trials that are ongoing, including a review of the status...

In this episode we geek out over research study design. We kick-off the episode with a primer on how research studies work and the factors that strengthen and weaken the validity of a study. We set the stage with a discussion of the "counterfactual" which guides the selection of study design. We talk about how research is hypothesis driven and seeks to address specific, measurable, and answerable...

In this episode, we discuss whether or not it is possible to “boost” our immune system. We start things off with a primer on immune system basics, including the different components of the immune system. We briefly touch on conditions where the immune system is overactive, in the case of allergies and autoimmune disorders. We then introduce 8 key micronutrients necessary for proper immune function...

On this week's episode, we talk all about the flu! We start off with the basics of influenza and the different strains and mutations of the virus (and why they necessitate our getting an annual shot). Next, we answer our "Heard from the Herd" question about the need to get a flu shot even if you've never had the flu (lucky you!). We present recent population health estimates of disease burden and...

In this two-part episode, we do a deep dive into the evidence-based do’s and don’t’s for being safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Part 1 focuses on hygiene and infection prevention, and part 2 focuses on behaviors and best practices. In Part 1, we briefly discuss modes of transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. We then focus on mask wearing, describing what mask types are most...

In this two-part episode, we do a deep dive into the evidence-based do’s and don’t’s for being safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Part 1 focuses on hygiene and infection prevention, and part 2 focuses on behaviors and best practices. In Part 2, we discuss general considerations for making decisions about potentially risky activities. We discuss restaurant dining and other indoor activities, school...

In this episode, we take a break from COVID-19 to discuss vaccines: specifically, what they are, how they work, and how they provide immunity to disease. We describe the different types of vaccines and some examples of the diseases they provide protection for. We comment on some population health case studies on vaccine trends and local outbreaks and wrap up with a primer on why it is important to...

Welcome to the Unbiased Science Podcast! Join Dr. Jessica Steier, a public health expert, and Dr. Andrea Love, an immunology expert, as they dive into the science behind pertinent health-related topics. Former college classmates, these two esteemed scientists join forces as a dynamic duo bringing you trustworthy and reliable information, while simultaneously dispelling many common misconceptions....

In this short teaser, co-hosts Dr. Jess Steier and Dr. Andrea Love provide a brief glimpse of what you can expect from the Unbiased Science podcast.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.