
New discoveries, everyday mysteries, and the science behind the headlines — in just under 15 minutes. It's science for everyone, using a lot of creativity and a little humor. Join hosts Emily Kwong and Regina Barber for science on a different wavelength.If you're hooked, try Short Wave Plus. Your subscription supports the show and unlocks a sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/shortwave
| Publishes | Daily | Episodes | 1819 | Founded | 6 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | Life SciencesScienceAstronomy | |||

Wanna know where tech is headed this year? MIT Technology Review has answers. They compile an annual list called "10 Breakthrough Technologies". Today, host Regina G. Barber speaks with executive editor Amy Nordrum about the list, and they get into e... more
There’s this idea that something happens in the human brain when we turn 25. Suddenly, we can rent a car without fees. Make rational decisions. We may even regret some of our past… indiscretions. All because we’re developed…right? Well, a recent pape... more
In the mid-1980s, scientists published a startling finding–a giant hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica. That’s the protective shield that blocks large amounts of harmful UV radiation. And without it, the rate of cancer, cataracts and crop failure... more
Microbes are little alchemists that perform all manner of chemical reactions. A team of microbiologists co-founded a non-profit to try to harness those abilities to solve some of the world’s big problems — from carbon capture to helping coral reefs t... more
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Terrific writing, terrific guests! Thank you! However, Regina Barber’s condescending demeanor and frequent exclamations of “Oh!” “Wow!” “Really?!” sounds like she’s addressing an audience of very young children. Please don’t.
I’ve learned so much by listening to this treasure trove of science!
There aren’t many podcasts (or music choices) I can find that two teenagers and adults all want to listen to - except shortwave. Instead of sitting on their phones in the back of the car, everyone listens and comments, it’s actual family time and we love the topics and hosts. That’s worth all npr+ subscriptions right there!
Love all the science and interesting topics. Always seem to learn something.
Lovely overviews of a broad variety of science topics, including those you didn’t know existed. It’s great that they get experts from around the world too.
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 | #14 |
Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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Content across episodes focuses on a wide array of scientific topics ranging from the impact of technology on daily life to the natural world and health. The discussions are designed to be digestible and engaging, making complex subjects accessible to a general audience. Each episode typically features expert guests who bring their insights into diverse scientific inquiries, from AI data centers and climate change to the psychological aspects of everyday phenomena like disagreement and nightmares. The unique format allows for brief, informative explorations of scientific mysteries and discoveries, appealing to listeners who appreciate learning something new in a short time frame.
Rephonic provides a wide range of podcast stats for Short Wave. We scanned the web and collated all of the information that we could find in our comprehensive podcast database. See how many people listen to Short Wave and access YouTube viewership numbers, download stats, audience demographics, chart rankings, ratings, reviews and more.
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These podcasts share a similar audience with Short Wave:
1. The Indicator from Planet Money
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3. Throughline
4. Consider This from NPR
5. Science Friday
Short Wave launched 6 years ago and published 1819 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 Short Wave include:
1. James Henrickson
2. Braden Tierney
3. Yasemin Saplakoglu
4. Kimberly Nicholas
5. Alessandra Rahm
6. Elizabeth Bechard
7. Jade Sasser
8. Jo Lambert
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