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Artwork for Big Picture Science

Big Picture Science

Big Picture Science
Tyrannosaurus Rex
Humpback Whale
Asteroids
Color Perception
Space Junk
Archaeology
Lithium
Women's Health
The Universe
Hypnosis
Human Evolution
Paleontology
Biofluorescence
Heat Death
SETI Institute
Therapeutic Potential Of Hypnosis
Consumerism
Waste Management
Complex Communication
Salton Sea

The surprising connections in science and technology that give you the Big Picture. Astronomer Seth Shostak and science journalist Molly Bentley are joined each week by leading researchers, techies, and journalists to provide a smart and humorous take on science. Our regular "Skeptic Check" episodes cast a critical eye on pseudoscience.

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes649Founded20 years ago
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Artwork for Big Picture Science

Latest Episodes

In Brazil, leaders from across the globe are gathering for COP30, the premier climate summit in the world. For the first time, the U.S. is sitting it out, after exiting the Paris Agreement. There is, however, a ray of hope in the global efforts to re... more

What happens to us after we die is as much a question for anthropology and ecology as it is for theology.  Death and decay are not comfortable subjects, but some scientists study them unflinchingly, knowing that doing so yields valuable scientific in... more

Long before Orson Welles provoked a panic with his 1938 radio broadcast of a Martian invasion in War of the Worlds, we were fascinated with the possibility of life on the Red Planet. We may be a step closer to finding it after the Perseverance rover ... more

The tiny bean-shaped structures in your cells – mitochondria – are little powerhouses. Recent research suggests they may unlock overall good health, or, when they fail, cause diseases such as diabetes and Alzheimer’s. How strong is the science for th... more

Key Facts

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Recent Guests

Giovanna Vidoli
Director of the Forensic Anthropology Center at the University of Tennessee
University of Tennessee
Episode: The Decomposers
Dawnie Steadman
Professor of Anthropology and Director Emeritus of the Forensic Anthropology Center
University of Tennessee
Episode: The Decomposers
Melanie Beasley
Biological Anthropologist in the Department of Anthropology at Purdue University
Purdue University
Episode: The Decomposers
Janice Bishop
Senior Research Scientist at the SETI Institute
SETI Institute
Episode: Mad About Mars
David Baron
Science writer and author
Episode: Mad About Mars
Dr. Martin Picard
Professor of Behavioral Medicine and Mitochondrial Psychobiology
Columbia University
Episode: Skeptic Check: Health Fads
Mary Roach
Science writer known for her humorous and insightful takes on various scientific topics, including anatomy and body replacement technology.
Author of Replaceable You, Adventures in Human Anatomy
Episode: Spare (Body) Parts
Nathaniel Rich
Contributing writer for the New York Times Magazine and author
New York Times Magazine
Episode: Some Chemicals are Forever
Rachel Frazin
Energy and environment policy reporter for The Hill
The Hill
Episode: Some Chemicals are Forever

Hosts

Molly Bentley
Executive producer and co-host, known for her expertise in science journalism and engaging storytelling.
Seth Shostak
Senior astronomer and co-host, recognized for his insights into astronomy and science communication.

Reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars from 1.4k ratings
  • Delete

    Delete

    Apple Podcasts
    1
    MarkChicagoIL
    United States2 months ago
  • Silly Statement

    Why state that the Rubin Observatory is the first one named after a woman?

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    MarkChicagoIL
    United States3 months ago
  • Best podcast

    I listen to about a dozen podcasts. Big picture Science is by far the most informative and entertaining

    Apple Podcasts
    1
    R be l.
    United Statesa year ago
  • Enjoying the show

    Thanks for looking at social sciences as well as the traditional ‘hard sciences’.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    WDBonett
    Australiaa year ago
  • Intriguing & Educational

    Very balanced interviews with experts.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    ZosiaSar
    United Statesa year ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Some feedback reflects dissatisfaction with perceived political biases or advertising content, suggesting that the podcast has occasionally strayed from its core focus on science.
Many reviews highlight the variety of scientific topics covered, pointing out the podcast's strength in interdisciplinary connections and insights from experts.
Listeners praise the podcast for its informative and entertaining discussions, appreciating the hosts' ability to present complex topics in an engaging and understandable way.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Apple Podcasts
#93
United States/Science
Apple Podcasts
#102
Canada/Science
Apple Podcasts
#148
Australia/Science
Apple Podcasts
#27
Chile/Science
Apple Podcasts
#99
United Arab Emirates/Science
Apple Podcasts
#108
China/Science

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Mad About Mars
Q: How do these past examples and the process of science itself inform how we should consider the discovery of a possible biosignature?
This is going to be a long process, science is a long process, and if you want to answer the most important question that humanity has ever asked, you cannot expect it to be a three day exercise.
Mad About Mars
Q: What would it take for us to know conclusive evidence of life on Mars?
On Earth we have a lot of different instruments that would be able to tell us, so we need to get those samples home.
Skeptic Check: Health Fads
Q: Are you saying that reducing stress somehow affects the health of mitochondria?
Yes, repeated stress can damage mitochondria, but positive social interactions might enhance mitochondrial function.
Skeptic Check: Health Fads
Q: Can you clarify the difference between mitochondrial disease and the recent claims around mitochondrial dysfunction?
Mitochondrial disease is a genetic defect that impairs energy transformation, whereas mitochondrial dysfunction is often used incorrectly to describe energy transformation issues.
Spare (Body) Parts
Q: If you have a whole new body that belonged entirely, the entire body belonged to someone else and it's just your brain or your head, yes, is that you?
I think you could replace any number of parts as long as you leave the brain. I think the person is the person, really.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
Gender Skew
Location
Interests
Professions
Age Range
Household Income
Social Media Reach

Frequently Asked Questions About Big Picture Science

What is Big Picture Science about and what kind of topics does it cover?

This podcast presents a thoughtful exploration of diverse scientific topics, featuring engaging discussions with experts across various fields such as astronomy, environmental science, biology, and public health. Listeners can expect to hear about pivotal scientific issues, ranging from the intricacies of human movement and the significance of ecosystems to the implications of political decisions on scientific research. Each episode emphasizes a blend of humor and depth, hosted by a pair of knowledgeable figures who guide listeners through complex subjects in an accessible manner. Notably, the podcast addresses contemporary challenges and offers insights into pressing matters like climate change, disaster management, and the evolution of te... more

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Which podcasts are similar to Big Picture Science?

These podcasts share a similar audience with Big Picture Science:

1. Science Magazine Podcast
2. Science Friday
3. Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science
4. Astronomy Cast
5. SpaceTime: Your Guide to Space & Astronomy

How many episodes of Big Picture Science are there?

Big Picture Science launched 20 years ago and published 649 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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What guests have appeared on Big Picture Science?

Recent guests on Big Picture Science include:

1. Giovanna Vidoli
2. Dawnie Steadman
3. Melanie Beasley
4. Janice Bishop
5. David Baron
6. Dr. Martin Picard
7. Mary Roach
8. Nathaniel Rich

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

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