
Big Brains explores the groundbreaking research and discoveries that are changing our world. In each episode, we talk to leading experts and unpack their work in straightforward terms. Interesting conversations that cover a gamut of topics from how music affects our brains to what happens after we die.
| Publishes | Twice monthly | Episodes | 226 | Founded | 8 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | ScienceEducation | |||

For decades, traditional cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation have targeted tumors directly—often with severe side effects and mixed results. But what if the key to treating cancer was already inside our bodies?
Prof. Thomas Gajewski, a... more
What if the secret to restoring your focus, improving your mental health, and even reducing crime rates wasn’t found in an app or a pill, but in a tree? In this episode, we speak with University of Chicago psychologist Marc Berman, whose research on ... more
As AI rapidly changes how we work, learn, and communicate, it also raises an urgent question: What does it mean to grow up in a world dominated by smart technology? From smart-baby monitors to stuffed animals embedded with LLMs, kids and parents are ... more
Every day, we throw things away, only to be forgotten forever. But society didn’t always work in the same way. In this episode, we speak with University of Chicago scholar and anthropologist Sarah Newman to discuss her book, Unmaking Waste: New Histo... more
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Loved this one! I'll only take a couple points with me, though.... One is confirmation of an isloated thought I've had for some years, that what I call "desaliencing" is a relevant skill, and can be clean and useful, or not. I had been thinking of it in terms of the forgotten commute, but I'm happy to hear the short-term memory log jam isn't unique to me.
One other is that cognitive skill testing is terribly lacking. I'm convinced people don't want to be pre-stratified with it.
The subtle music in the background is very distracting and takes away from what the guest is saying. It sounds overproduced for no reason.
Friends, This podcast is full of sound, well-researched advice from professional panels and interviews. Never a dull episode.
In the 19th century it was Phrenology.
In the 20th century it was Eugenics.
And now we have Polygenic Indices?
What a CROCK!
Very sophisticated STORY, but not science.
I don’t know how I found the Big Brains podcast, but I am so happy I did. High quality, concise, well researched, and edited content every episode. Guests are always interesting and I learn something every time I listen. 100% recommend!
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
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Apple Podcasts | #154 |
Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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The program features expert-led conversations spanning science, technology, policy, and education, with a strong emphasis on how cutting-edge research translates into practical implications for everyday life, business, and public understanding. Episodes frequently explore psychology, neuroscience, AI, quantum technologies, environmental science, and governance, often pairing university researchers with industry or policy perspectives. Listeners can expect rigorous explanations, clear takeaways for decision-makers, and thoughtful commentary on the societal impacts of advances in science and technology. A standout strength is the guest roster: top scholars and practitioners from a single research university ecosystem who unpack complex topics... more
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These podcasts share a similar audience with Big Brains:
1. Capitalisn't
2. The Pie: An Economics Podcast
3. Hidden Brain
4. People I (Mostly) Admire
5. Freakonomics Radio
Big Brains launched 8 years ago and published 226 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on Big Brains include:
1. Marc Berman
2. Dana Suskind
3. Sarah Newman
4. Marshini Chetty
5. Nadya Mason
6. David Awschalom
7. Fred Chong
8. Nicholas Epley
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