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Exploring the groundbreaking research and discoveries transforming our world

Award-winning podcast produced at the University of Chicago

MOST RECENT

Episode 156

Can you really die of a broken heart? The hidden dangers of grief with Mary Frances O'Connor

Psychologist examines the stress that loss has on the body—and how society can help

Psychologist examines the stress that loss has on the body—and how society can help

Episode 155

The science behind raising successful kids, with Ariel Kalil

Developmental psychologist explains how parents can best invest time to close the education gap

Developmental psychologist explains how parents can best invest time to close the education gap

Episode 154

Do animals understand death?, with Susana Monsó

In ‘Playing Possum,’ philosopher examines whether animals can grasp mortality—from dogs mourning owners to orcas grieving young

In ‘Playing Possum,’ philosopher examines whether animals can grasp mortality—from dogs mourning owners to orcas grieving young

Episode 153

Why measles is resurging—and the rise of vaccine hesitancy, with Adam Ratner

Infectious disease expert examines the latest outbreaks—and the uncertain future of children’s health

Infectious disease expert examines the latest outbreaks—and the uncertain future of children’s health

MORE EPISODES

Episode 152

The little-known secrets to a good life, with Shigehiro Oishi

Psychologist argues to look beyond happiness and meaning to find fulfillment

Psychologist argues to look beyond happiness and meaning to find fulfillment

Episode 151

How bioelectronics could heal our bodies and minds, with Bozhi Tian

Scientists design living devices to fight infections, power the heart and regulate the brain

An abstract illustration depicting bioelectronics

Scientists design living devices to fight infections, power the heart and regulate the brain

Episode 150

Could a fungal pandemic be “The Last of Us?” with Arturo Casadevall

Scientists warn against a potential health threat due to climate change, resistance to drugs

Scientists warn against a potential health threat due to climate change, resistance to drugs

Episode 149

What’s the truth about alcohol’s benefits and risks? with Tim Stockwell

Research on red wine and moderate drinking were skewed, scholar claims

Research on red wine and moderate drinking were skewed, scholar claims

Episode 148

What happens when we die? with Sam Parnia

Research on consciousness sheds new light on the line between life and death

Abstract illustration depicting "lucid dying"

Research on consciousness sheds new light on the line between life and death

ALL EPISODES

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About Us

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.