Exploring the groundbreaking research and discoveries transforming our world

Award-winning podcast produced at the University of Chicago

MOST RECENT

Episode 183

How websites trick you using ‘dark patterns’

Computer scientist explores tactics used in apps and online to deceive users—from subscription traps to collecting data

Episode 182

Quantum technology, explained: A Big Brains live event

UChicago scientists demystify quantum, separate hype from reality, and explore potential applications—from cybersecurity to medical sensors to computers

Episode 181

Our untapped superpower: Connecting with others, with Nicholas Epley

Behavioral scientist explores how our health and happiness benefit from conversations with strangers, family or friends

Episode 180

Why the Fed matters now more than ever, with Douglas Diamond

Nobel laureate examines future of Federal Reserve leadership and independence—and how to address future financial crises

MORE EPISODES

Episode 179

Anxious? Avoidant? How to build more secure relationships, with Amir Levine

Neuroscientist explains how attachment styles change from childhood to adulthood—and how we can become more secure

Episode 178

Could AI models forecast extreme weather events? with Pedram Hassanzadeh

Climate scientist explains how models are being trained to predict heat waves, monsoons and even unprecedented ‘gray swan’ events

Episode 177

Are judges too powerful? The rise of universal injunctions, with Samuel Bray

Legal scholar discusses the expanding authority of single judges to halt federal policies and executive orders

Episode 176

Could data centers break our power grid? with Andrew Chien

AI demands are straining energy systems and the environment; scientist proposes a more sustainable solution

Episode 175

Remarkable new treatments for spinal cord injuries, with Mohamad Bydon

2-year-old’s recovery from severed spinal cord shows how surgery can help patients regain movement, even after paralysis

ALL EPISODES

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Hosted by Paul M. Rand, the award-winning Big Brains podcast was named the best university-produced podcast by CASE for the past four years. It’s also been honored by PRNEWS and Adweek.

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