The Age of Aquaticus
25 April 2025 - 43 minsFor years, scientists thought nothing could live above 73℃/163℉. At that temperature, everything boiled to death. But scientists Tom Brock and Hudson Freeze weren’t convinced. What began as their simple quest to trawl for life in some of the hottest natural springs on Earth would, decades later, change the trajectory of biological science forever, saving millions of lives—possibly even yours.
This seismic, totally unpredictable discovery, was funded by the U.S. government. This week, as the Trump administration slashes scientific research budgets en masse, we tell one story, a parable about the unforeseeable miracles that basic research can yield. After that, a familiar voice raises some e...
Series Episodes
23 Weeks 6 Days
A tiny baby, born at 23 Weeks and 6 days—roughly halfway to full term. And a whole universe of medical and moral questions.
1 hour 3 mins
11 September Finished
60 Words
It’s been 25 years since 9/11. Today we talk about the 60 words that ushered in everything that came after.
58 mins
4 September Finished
Dolly Parton's America: Sad Ass Songs
We will always love you, Dolly.
1 hour 4 mins
28 August Finished
Patient Zero
The greatest mysteries have a shadowy figure at the center, Patient Zero. We hunt for Patient Zeroes from all over the map.
51 mins
21 August Finished
Nigel and the Real Gannet
A love story about a rogue bird and his concrete lover.
25 mins
14 August Finished
