

BrainStuff
iHeartPodcasts
Whether the topic is popcorn or particle physics, you can count on BrainStuff to explore -- and explain -- the everyday science in the world around us.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 13, 2017 • 4min
Do We Need to Redefine the Four Seasons?
As climate change affects the planet's weather patterns, some parts of the world will see the seasons bleed together. Tune in to learn how we define the seasons now, and how some researchers think that should change. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 12, 2017 • 3min
Did Giant Crabs Eat Amelia Earhart?
No, really, it's a serious question. In this episode, learn why -- and how -- researchers have investigated giant land crabs' potential role in the famous pilot's ultimate demise. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 11, 2017 • 5min
How Much Does Getting Stuck in Traffic Cost Us?
When you add up all the wasted time and gasoline, traffic hotspots cost drivers billions of dollars. Learn how researchers are using technology to measure the problem -- and hopefully make it better. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 8, 2017 • 3min
How Fast Can We Take a Picture of the Entire Sky?
A new robotic camera is set to change what we know about outer space by capturing huge images of the night sky. Learn more on BrainStuff. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 7, 2017 • 5min
Why Do We Find Symmetry So Pleasing?
What is it about the arrangement of petals on a flower or a perfectly symmetrical display of soup cans that catches our eye? Our brains seem wired for it, but why? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 6, 2017 • 3min
How Does Salt Prevent Food Spoilage?
Salt has kept entire civilizations alive thanks to its abilities to preserve food and protect it from harmful germs. But how? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 5, 2017 • 3min
Do Monkeys Have Superstitions?
We share a lot in common with monkeys, but are they just as superstitious? And could the belief in winning streaks carry an evolutionary advantage? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 4, 2017 • 5min
What Is (and Isn't) Terrorism?
When is -- and isn't -- a crime considered terrorism? The legal, political and moral definitions are often at odds. We explore why on BrainStuff. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 1, 2017 • 5min
Why Are Leaf Blowers So Irritating?
If the sound of leaf blowers makes you angry, you're not alone -- and there's science behind why. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 30, 2017 • 4min
Pretending To Be Batman Helps Kids Focus
The Batman Effect, as researchers have dubbed it, allows kids to separate themselves from temptation and stay on task. Learn more on BrainStuff. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


