Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast

Randomness is a fundamental part of natural physical phenomena. Yet, it is often unappreciated how these stochastic processes affect our daily lives. On this program, Dr. Leonard Mlodinow discussed the random walk.

While most diamonds in the world are mined from natural sources, technological advances are now making synthetic diamonds a viable alternative. On this program, Ulrich Boser discussed the world of synthetic diamonds.

Animal research is fundamental to the remarkable advances in medical science. Yet, controversy continues to exist regarding the role of animals in medical research. On this program, Prof. P. Michael Conn discussed the animal research war.

The human brain is capable of remarkable tasks. But surprisingly, it is not optimally designed for solving most problems. On this program, Prof. Gary Marcus discussed how the brain is like a kluge.

Observing birds in nature is a rapidly growing past time for many birding enthusiasts, which is especially rewarding when combined with a holistic approach. On this program, Ted Floyd discussed holistic birding.

Toxicology tests have typically relied on outmoded and non-specific measures. On this program, Dr. Bruce Gillis discussed advances in genetic toxicology. In addition, Prof. Jerry Crabtree discussed transgenic technology.

Fructose in the diet is the cause of many health problems. On this program, Prof. Richard Johnson discussed the effects of high fructose consumption.

The normal decline of our cognitive abilities is one of the hallmarks of the aging process. But, what is the dividing line between normal and abnormal memory loss? On this program, Martha Weinman Lear discussed normal memory loss.

While sports may thrill fans and spectators, professional athletes continue to make use of the latest developments in science and technology to improve their performance. On this program, Davin Coburn discussed the science of sports.

While exercise is widely known to be beneficial for physical health, it can also greatly improve mental abilities as well. On this program, Dr. John Ratey discussed the effects of exercise on the brain.

Developing clean energy is a major challenge for policy makers and scientists. On this program, Dr. Lester Brown discussed clean energy technology. In addition, Prof. Diandra Leslie-Pelecky discussed the physics of NASCAR.

Solving complex problems can be aided by the use of visual tools. However, these methods are often unknown outside of the scientific and engineering arenas. On this program, Dan Roam discussed visual problem solving.

Developing alternative energy sources will require extensive capital resources. On this program, Matthew Feller discussed methods for carbon sequestration. In addition, Miriam Horn discussed developing capital infrastructure for alternative energy technology.

Effective negotiation is a skill that is necessary for resolving conflict peacefully, but the strategies and practices of negotiation are often not properly taught. On this program, William Ury discussed the power of a positive negotiation.

The current peak oil crisis has intensified the search for renewable energy sources. One possible option is nuclear power. On this program, William Sweet discussed kicking the carbon habit.

The kidneys are an often unappreciated organ in the human body. But, the importance of their function becomes readily apparent when something disrupts their normal operation. On this program, Dr. Steven J. Peitzman discussed a short history of failing kidneys.

Developing the infrastructure of poor urban environments remains a major challenge for sustainable growth. On this program, Dr. Timothy Campbell discussed capacity building and urban development.

The human body is regulated by multiple physiological processes that cycle throughout the day. On this program, Jennifer Ackerman discussed the science of body rhythms.

Astronomers searching for extrasolar worlds have recently discovered several fascinating planets orbiting other stars. On this program, Dr. Jason Wright discussed the science and technology behind the search for extrasolar worlds.

Alexander Graham Bell is widely regarded as the inventor of the telephone. However, few may know the story of Elisha Gray, who may have been the first inventor of the telephone. On this program, Seth Shulman discussed the controversy and history of the telephone.

The exploration of Egypt and the middle east remained largely unknown to European scientists until 1798. At that time, a group of scientists, engineers, and artists began exploring the region under the leadership of Napoleon Bonaparte. On this program, Nina Burleigh discussed Napoleon, his scientists, and the exploration of Egypt.

Degenerative diseases of the brain such as Alzheimers and Parkinsons have until recently been accepted as a normal possibility of old age. However, recent advances in modern medicine are changing this view. Preventative measures can reduce the chance of developing these diseases, and effective treatments are being developed. On this program, Dr. Marwan Sabbagh discussed methods for preventing Alzh...

Science and sports seem strangely dissimilar, but both strive to bring out the best in human endeavors. On this program, Rick Greenwald discussed the quest for such consilience in Quantum Hoops.

Malaria has often been regarded as a third world disease. Yet, it has been found worldwide, with socioeconomic factors largely contributing to its prevalence or absence in different regions. On this program, Prof. Randall Packard discussed the history and treatment of malaria.

As computers have become increasingly ubiquitous, so too has computer malware. How can we protect our computers from this onslaught of viruses, worms, and Trojan horses? On this program, David Perry discussed effective solutions to combat computer malware.