15 Best Science Podcasts to Expand Your Mind: Discover the Invisible Universe

15 Best Science Podcasts to Expand Your Mind- Discover the Invisible Universe

Time is an invaluable asset, perpetually advancing regardless of our actions. Therefore, investing our time wisely in enriching activities that broaden our knowledge and understanding is crucial. One such activity is listening to science podcasts. 

Science podcasts not only do they provide intriguing insights into the vast and mysterious universe, but they also allow us to delve into complex scientific concepts from the comfort of our homes. 

In the day and age of ubiquitous technology, podcasts have certainly emerged as a favorite pastime. Whether you’re on a lengthy commute or simply pottering around at home, tuning in to a podcast not only makes the time fly by but also provides an opportunity to learn something new entertainingly. Unlike the sometimes tedious classroom lectures, science podcasts are an excellent avenue to access the most riveting aspects of a subject directly. 

Particularly when it comes to science podcasts, they brilliantly encapsulate our universe’s weird and wonderful aspects, invariably piquing the listener’s curiosity and making learning an enjoyable endeavor. Science podcasts also provide an accessible platform for learning, appealing to both the science enthusiasts and the casually curious, making every second spent listening worthwhile. 

If you’re curious and keen on understanding exactly how the world around, inside, and beyond us works, you should try to listen to science podcasts. These captivating programs transform complex scientific theories into digestible content while keeping you thoroughly engrossed. They cover a wide array of topics, from astrophysics to zoology, thus offering something of interest to everyone. By immersing yourself in the world of science podcasts, you’re feeding your curiosity and expanding your knowledge on a plethora of fascinating subjects in an accessible and entertaining way.

Indeed, there are some cracking podcasts out there – brought to you by some of the science world’s favorite personalities. Brimming with compelling narratives, profound insights, and captivating discussions, these science podcasts are the perfect way to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of science without having to fix your gaze on a screen or flip through the pages of a book. 

So, it’s time you give your eyes a well-earned break and let your ears do the work. Picture yourself unwinding on a cozy, tranquil evening, a steaming cup of tea by your side, as you plunge into the enthralling depths of the cosmos, explore the intricacies of the human brain, or uncover the secrets of evolution, all through the power of auditory learning.

The Best Science Podcasts to Listen to Now!

If you’re looking for fresh scientific knowledge or just want to embark on a journey of discovery, consider my compilation of the 15 best science podcasts currently available. These science podcasts offer a treasure trove of information, presenting scientific ideas and breakthroughs in an easily digestible and enjoyable format.

These beautiful science podcasts blend education with entertainment, making learning a fun and engaging experience. Whether a science enthusiast or a novice, these science podcasts will ignite your curiosity and provide a deeper understanding of the world around us. 

So plug in your headphones, sit back, and let these podcasts guide you through the awe-inspiring realm of science.

15 Best Science Podcasts to Expand Your Mind
The world of science is endlessly fascinating, and one podcast that showcases this is “The Weirdest Thing I Learned This Week.” Each episode is filled with bizarre and unexpected facts that leave listeners amazed at the strangeness of the universe. From learning about glow-in-the-dark sharks to the origins of the word “ghoul,” this podcast is the perfect combination of education and entertainment. The hosts’ infectious curiosity and delight in discovering oddities make it a must-listen for anyone interested in the...
The Ask Us Anything podcast by Popular Science is the perfect opportunity for listeners to satiate their curiosity about the world around them. Each episode features experts in a particular field who take on a barrage of questions submitted by curious listeners. From dinosaur biology to the physics of black holes, the podcast covers topics that are as fascinating as diverse. What’s more, the hosts do an excellent job of breaking down complex concepts into bite-sized, easy-to-understand chunks. So, whether...
For those who can’t get enough of the enigmatic world of food, Gastropod is the perfect podcast for satisfying our curiosities. By deeply diving into the science and history behind our favorite dishes, this show truly delves into the essence of what makes food so darn interesting. From learning about the spiritual significance of tea ceremonies to brushing up on the latest research into the microbiome, Gastropod mixes the perfect blend of bite-sized facts and lengthy explorations to keep you...
Have you ever stopped to think about all the sounds around you, both natural and man-made? The podcast Twenty Thousand Hertz does just that, exploring the fascinating world of sound in each episode. This podcast covers everything from the intricacies of audio engineering to the psychology behind our emotional responses to sounds. One of my favorite episodes delves into the creepy world of sound design and its ability to evoke fear in even the bravest of us. If you’re a...
If you’re someone who’s constantly pondering strange and thought-provoking questions, then the Every Little Thing science podcast might be your new favorite source of entertainment. This podcast has covered you, from unraveling the mysteries of why news anchors seem to talk the same way to investigating the long-standing myth about wolves howling at the moon. Each episode offers a unique and fascinating opportunity to discover the compelling answers to questions you never knew you had. And the best part? All...
In an age where scientific discoveries are happening at an astonishing rate, it doesn’t seem easy to keep up with the ever-evolving intersection of science and society. Enter NPR’s Short Wave, a podcast that tackles the tough questions and mysteries of science while being the perfect length to enjoy during a quick coffee break. Hosts Emily Kwong, Aaron Scott, and Regina Barber offer their diverse perspectives on the day’s subject matter, ranging from the future of AI in medicine to...
Tired of dry clinical science programs? Well… That’s Interesting might be just the podcast you need. Through an endearing mix of adorkable nicknames and naughty language, host Jill ChaCha and her team explore the lighter side of science. Their topics range from the bizarre (ever heard of a swimming pool full of saliva?) to the endlessly fascinating (why everyone should love bees). But it’s not all just fun and games; ChaCha has an insatiable curiosity and a delightful narrative style....
Science is all about asking questions, but with the ever-evolving nature of knowledge, there are always new inquiries to be made. And while some may believe in bizarre conspiracy theories, that doesn’t mean we should discredit scientific inquiry altogether. The Unexplainable podcast dives into the mysteries of science and the mind-bending questions that don’t quite have answers. Following a journalistic ethos, the show presents topics in a way that is accessible and engaging to a broad audience. If you’re seeking...
The world of science can be stuffy and serious, but the hosts of The Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe have found a way to make it both informative and hilarious. With nearly a thousand episodes, they’ve honed their critical thinking skills to a razor-sharp edge, calling out pseudoscience and conspiracy theories left and right. Even better, they manage to do it in a witty and engaging way. If you’re looking for a science podcast that will make you laugh as...
Houston We Have a Podcast, the official podcast of the Johnson Space Center, is the ultimate destination for space enthusiasts. With its mesmerizing content, the show will take listeners on a journey through NASA’s rich history, give them insights into the latest missions, and even allow them to hear from astronauts themselves. What’s more, this podcast is for everyone, regardless of their age. Whether you’re looking for informative discussions or simply want to indulge in some space-related inspiration, the show...
Science Friday is the perfect way to kickstart your weekend, offering an in-depth look into the latest scientific discoveries and innovations. This engaging podcast provides fascinating insights into topics ranging from astronomy and evolution to neuroscience and artificial intelligence. Through interviews with experts in their respective fields, Science Friday explores the fascinating world of Science, bringing you thought-provoking discussions that will stimulate your mind. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or just looking to expand your knowledge, Science Friday is essential...
For those looking for a science podcast that isn't afraid to get creative, Radiolab is the perfect pick. This show has long been hailed as the grandfather of science podcasting, and for good reason. Since its early days, Radiolab has made a name for itself by experimenting with storytelling and sound design, establishing itself as a genre pioneer. What truly sets Radiolab apart, however, is its ability to strike a delicate balance between hard facts and human connection. Hosted by...
If you’re a science enthusiast or just curious about the world around us, the Ologies science podcast is a must-listen. Hosted by science journalist and humorist Alie Ward, each episode dives deep into a different “ology” – from microbiology to volcanology to ornithology – featuring interviews with experts in those fields. But what separates Ologies is Ward’s infectious enthusiasm and humor, making even the most niche subjects accessible and entertaining. You’ll come away from each episode with a newfound appreciation...
For those who are curious about the future, the Flash Forward podcast is a must-listen. Hosted by the talented and humorous Rose Eveleth, this podcast takes you on a journey through various possible futures. From a world where we all live in underwater cities to a future where we are able to upload our consciousness to the cloud, every episode will leave you wondering and contemplating the possibilities. Through interviews with experts and creative storytelling, Eveleth brings to light the...
Are you tired of feeling like you can’t trust the information you’re being presented? Enter Science Vs, the podcast that uses scientific research to investigate and debunk common misconceptions. Hosted by Wendy Zukerman, each episode tackles a controversial topic with humor, storytelling, and much data. From vaping to astrology to the keto diet, Science Vs has you covered. Not only is the podcast informative, but it’s also incredibly engaging, making even the most complex information easy to understand. So, if...

What makes a good science podcast?

A good science podcast strikes a delicate balance between being educational and entertaining. It demystifies complex scientific concepts, transforming them into digestible, easy-to-understand narratives that keep the listener engaged and intrigued. The hosts play a crucial role in this process, with their ability to present the subject matter in a way that appeals to both the novice and the seasoned science enthusiast. Furthermore, the quality of the audio, the pacing of the content, and the occasional use of humor all contribute to making a podcast enjoyable. Importantly, a good science podcast is updated regularly, offering fresh insights and news from the scientific community. Additionally, it often features interviews with experts, which not only lends credibility to the information but also provides listeners with a direct line to the cutting-edge of scientific research.

Why are science podcasts important?

Science podcasts play an essential role in democratizing knowledge and making complex scientific concepts accessible to everyone. They offer an opportunity for people to engage with science in a casual, non-intimidating environment, breaking down the barriers that might otherwise prevent people from learning about scientific topics. In a world where misinformation is rife, science podcasts provide accurate, research-based knowledge, helping to increase scientific literacy among the general population. Additionally, they inspire curiosity and foster a love of learning, encouraging listeners to continually seek out new information and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. By bringing science into our daily lives in an entertaining and engaging way, science podcasts help to cultivate a scientifically informed society.

Are science podcasts reliable?

Science podcasts, like any information source, can be a reliable resource depending on their origin and credibility. Reputable science podcasts often feature experts in the field, cite research studies, and provide accurate and up-to-date information. They adhere to ethical standards and usually undergo a rigorous review process to ensure reliability and accuracy of content. However, like all things on the internet, it’s important for listeners to exercise critical thinking and discernment. Cross-checking information with other reputable sources and considering the qualifications of the host or guest speakers can help ensure the reliability of the information presented. Not all science podcasts are created equal, so it’s crucial to select ones produced by credible organizations or trusted scientific communities.

What is the highest listened to podcast?

As of 2021, “The Daily” from The New York Times is often cited as one of the most popular podcasts, with millions of downloads per month. This podcast provides a deep analysis of the biggest stories of our time, hosted by Michael Barbaro. However, podcast popularity can vary greatly depending on the region, platform, and audience demographic. It’s important to note that the highest listened to podcast in a specific category such as science might be different. For instance, “Science Vs” from Gimlet Media is a highly popular choice among science enthusiasts, taking on fads, trends, and the opinionated mob to find out what’s fact, what’s not, and what’s somewhere in between.

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Ali Kaya

Author

Ali Kaya

This is Ali. Bespectacled and mustachioed father, math blogger, and soccer player. I also do consult for global math and science startups.