Best NSFS Podcasts (2025)

1
Built Environment Materials 22:16

1d ago22:16

22:16

Concrete is the most widely used construction material in the world. Sabbie Miller, an Associate Professor at the University of California, Davis, discusses the built environment and optimizing infrastructure materials.By U.S. National Science Foundation

1
Translational Research 18:57

8d ago18:57

18:57

Fundamental science can have a profound impact when discoveries and research are developed into tangible solutions that benefit the public. Ximena Bernal and Pablo Zavattieri, professors at Purdue University, discuss how their research into mosquitoes may translate into bio-inspired sensors that could help save lives.…

1
What Happens When The Well Runs Dry: Navigating Spiritual Drought 1:10:20

8d ago1:10:20

1:10:20

Are you feeling spiritually drained, disconnected, and lost? In this episode, we explore what it means to experience a spiritual drought—a season where prayers seem muted, the familiar presence of hope dwindles, and even the most steadfast beliefs begin to waver. We dive deep into personal narratives, timeless wisdom, and practical insights that re…

1
The Role of Artificial Intelligence with Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan 20:16

15d ago20:16

20:16

While artificial intelligence-driven technology is promising practical solutions to global challenges, AI-driven research advances the frontiers of knowledge and propels American ingenuity. Sethuraman Panchanathan, the 15th director of the U.S. National Science Foundation, discusses the current state of AI and the many ways it may be used in the fu…

1
Fentanyl and Illicit Trafficking 18:49

22d ago18:49

18:49

The sustained influx of fentanyl and other illicit drugs has had a profound impact on the lives of Americans. Louise Shelley, a professor emerita at George Mason University, discusses fentanyl, illicit trafficking networks and work on how criminal supply chains are being interrupted by scientific research.…

1
Divine Dollars: Master Your Money in 2025! 1:12:37

22d ago1:12:37

1:12:37

Are you seeking financial guidance that aligns with your faith? In this thought-provoking video, we delve into the intersection of faith and finance and discover how to make informed choices that honor your values and principles. Whether you're struggling with debt, seeking financial freedom, or simply looking for a more mindful approach to money m…

1
Betrayed by Faith? Exploring Church Hurt and Healing 1:19:10

1M ago1:19:10

1:19:10

Have you ever felt hurt, betrayed, or rejected by the church or its leaders? In this powerful episode, we delve into the raw and unspoken realities of church hurt—the moments when the place meant to bring spiritual healing becomes a source of deep pain. From personal stories of betrayal to the ripple effects on faith and identity, we uncover the st…

1
Is Trump's White House Return a MASSIVE Success or EPIC Failure? 1:02:36

2M ago1:02:36

1:02:36

Has Trump's return to the White House been a recipe for disaster or a winning strategy? Join the NSFS crew as they explore both sides of the argument. In this episode, we dive into the possibilities and implications of a second Trump presidency. From economic policies to foreign relations, we weigh the pros and cons of Trump's White House return. W…

1
97: 🚀 Starship Fails Again, Firefly’s Moon Success, & More Space Drama! 23:09

2M ago23:09

23:09

This week in spaceflight: Firefly Aerospace makes history with a successful Moon landing, while Intuitive Machines’ Athena mission doesn’t go as planned. Meanwhile, SpaceX’s Starship Flight 8 suffers another major failure, and rumors swirl about a Chinese rocket explosion at the launch pad. With NASA missions failing, ESA retiring old spacecraft, a…

1
CULTURAL CHAOS: From The Superbowl to the Pulpit! 1:14:14

2M ago1:14:14

1:14:14

In this riveting episode, we tackle the heated debate surrounding the Super Bowl Halftime Show and explore the broader cultural implications it represents. Did the performance ignite your passion, or did it leave you feeling disillusioned? Our hosts break down the cultural narratives that divide opinions and delve into the symbolism and artistry be…

1
The Intersection of Tech, Policy, and Leadership with Evan Burfield & Miles Taylor 44:16

2M ago44:16

44:16

Evan Burfield and Miles Taylor discuss the dynamic interplay between technology, policy, and leadership in Washington, DC. They offer distinct but complementary perspectives on the intersection of technology and policy. Evan, a startup enthusiast turned policy advocate, shares his journey from founding tech companies to fostering collaboration betw…

1
Breaking the Silence and Spicing Things Up: Conquering Porn and Restoring Faith 1:20:13

3M ago1:20:13

1:20:13

Join us in this honest and heartfelt episode as we dive deep into the sensitive yet critical topic of pornography and its impact on us all. We uncover the startling reality that most men, even within the church, grapple with this pervasive issue. Through open conversations, we explore the struggles, shame, and secrecy surrounding pornography and ho…

1
Battling Idols: Overcoming the Modern-Day Struggles That Undermine Our Faith 1:09:50

3M ago1:09:50

1:09:50

What idols have we created in our own lives? Join the NSFS crew as we uncover the timeless battle of idolatry, from biblical times to today's subtle distractions. Discover how ancient idols have morphed into modern-day temptations like money, technology, and success. Learn practical steps to recognize and overcome these hidden devotions and realign…

1
Alvin 14:29

3M ago14:29

14:29

Since 1964, the deep submergence vehicle Alvin has played major roles in sea discovery, from lost hydrogen bombs to hydrothermal vents and the first survey of the wreck of the RMS Titanic. Kaitlyn Beardshear, electrical engineer at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and a pilot of Alvin, discuses the submersible's history, sea exploration and dis…

1
Redefining Leadership and Organizational Culture with Dov Seidman 1:11:21

3M ago1:11:21

1:11:21

In this episode, we welcome Dov Seidman, founder of LRN and one of the leading thinkers on moral leadership, organizational culture, and ethics in business. Dov shares his insights on the role of inspired leadership in shaping behavior, navigating challenges with values, and how businesses can thrive by focusing on humanity. From lessons on patienc…

1
NSF Engines FARMS 27:54

4M ago27:54

27:54

The U.S. National Science Foundation Regional Innovation Engines program was established to advance collaborative, use-inspired and translational research and technology development in key technology focus areas across the United States. In this episode of the "NSF's Discovery Files" podcast, Hollie Mackey, CEO of The North Dakota Advanced Agricult…

1
The Discipleship Dilemma: Why Modern Churches are Missing the Mark 1:11:16

4M ago1:11:16

1:11:16

In this compelling episode, we tackle the pressing issue of discipleship within the modern church. Join us as we explore why many churches are struggling with discipleship and what can be done to turn the tide. We'll dive into the reasons behind the failures, from the lack of personal connections to the overemphasis on attendance and the cultural s…

1
A Look Back at 2024 19:46

4M ago19:46

19:46

From advances in the use of artificial intelligence and new guidance into its research to breakthroughs in biological treatments and approaches to healing to how we measure time, discoveries in many areas were revealed by U.S. National Science Foundation-supported researchers in 2024. As we start a new year, we're looking back at memorable moments …

1
MXenes 24:46

4M ago24:46

24:46

Innovation in materials science allows for the improvement of technologies and the exploration of new ones. In this episode of the "NSF's Discovery Files" podcast, Yury Gogotsi, professor at the Drexel University College of Engineering, discusses how MXenes were discovered and some of the ways they may be used in the future.…

1
Anxiety Unpacked: Strategies for Overcoming Fear and Finding Peace 1:11:38

4M ago1:11:38

1:11:38

Feeling weighed down by anxiety? Your path to peace begins here! Discover the transformative power of faith in this uplifting episode. Join the boys and their special guest as they explore how trusting in God's promises can bring peace and strength to your life. Hear inspiring personal stories of overcoming anxiety. Learn about the comfort that can…

1
Treating Drinking Water 21:21

4M ago21:21

21:21

Modern Americans benefit from centuries of improvements in drinking water safety. In this episode of the "NSF's Discovery Files" podcast, Julian Fairey, associate professor in the University of Arkansas Department of Civil Engineering, discusses how drinking water is treated and how he helped identify a disinfection byproduct.…

1
Advancing Laser Technology 17:47

4M ago17:47

17:47

New and advanced lasers are necessary to understand the complicated high energy, fast bursts of light occurring at the most extreme conditions in the universe. Franklin Dollar, professor of physics and astronomy at the University of California, Irvine, discusses lasers, how they're used to understand physics and how powerful the next generation of …

1
Christmas Gone Wrong - Not Safe for the Holidays 1:02:27

4M ago1:02:27

1:02:27

In this festive and laughter-filled episode, your favorite podcasters dive into our Christmas memories, traditions, and side-splitting stories! Get ready to laugh along with us as we recount all of our favorite parts of the Christmas season. Josh hides the pickle, Spencer has a Christmas bush, and we reminisce about the special moments, and traditi…

1
Ann Dunkin on Leadership, Innovation, and Building a Sustainable Future 58:16

5M ago58:16

58:16

By Bob Johnston

1
Perovskites and Materials Science 19:08

5M ago19:08

19:08

Materials scientists and engineers are working to develop and advance materials and devices that harvest energy from light, resulting in more efficient solar cell technologies. In this episode of the "NSF's Discovery Files" podcast, Aram Amassian, a professor at North Carolina State University, discusses light technologies and developing more effic…

1
Futurist and Author David Mattin on Technology, AI, and Human Behavior 1:12:44

5M ago1:12:44

1:12:44

In today’s episode, futurist David Mattin, co-founder of The Exponentialist, discusses the evolving role of technology in shaping human behavior. From AI to robotics, David shares insights into how these innovations fulfill timeless human desires and the ethical challenges they bring. Whether you’re leading a business or exploring future trends, Da…

1
Bioengineering Kidneys 22:17

5M ago22:17

22:17

Kidneys are essential for keeping the body functioning but one in seven Americans suffer from kidney disease. Alex Hughes, assistant professor of bioengineering at the University of Pennsylvania, discusses the kidney's role in the body, its structure and how his lab is working to grow new kidney tissues.…

1
Holy Smokes: The Debate About the Devil's Lettuce 1:07:20

5M ago1:07:20

1:07:20

You wanna smoke...What does the Bible say about marijuana? On this episode the NSFS team debates the nuanced pros and cons of cannabis, examining its medical, recreational, and ethical implications. Join us as we explore scriptural interpretations, uncovering how religious teachings shape individual views on this controversial topic. Expect to hear…

1
History Trapped In Ice 19:31

5M ago19:31

19:31

Ice cores allow scientists to reconstruct climate conditions far into the past. Peter Neff, an assistant professor in the University of Minnesota Department of Soil, Water, and Climate, discusses the process of collecting ice cores, how data is obtained from them and what the past may teach us about the future.…

1
Leonid Meteor Shower 11:12

5M ago11:12

11:12

Every fall, the Leonid meteor shower puts on an amazing display with observers counting numbers from thousands to tens of thousands of meteors per hour. Joe Pesce, an astrophysicist with the U.S. National Science Foundation, discusses meteor showers, why they occur and how to view the Leonid meteor shower.…

1
Mega Scandals In Mega Churches and the Moral Failure Coverup 1:06:01

5M ago1:06:01

1:06:01

Brace yourselves for a jaw-dropping episode of the Not Safe for Sunday Podcast! We're pulling back the curtain on the shocking sexual sins of pastors that have rocked the media recently. Join the NSFS crew as they uncover the dark truths behind the headlines. We'll delve into the most recent and shocking revelations about pastors who have fallen fr…

1
Perspectives in STEM 21:38

6M ago21:38

21:38

The future of science, technology, engineering and mathematics will require many perspectives to achieve its utmost potential. Keivan Stassun, professor of physics and astronomy at Vanderbilt University, discusses astronomy, his efforts in expanding diversity in STEM and some of the discoveries that are resulting from it at the Frist Center for Aut…

1
Concrete Designs 21:45

6M ago21:45

21:45

Advances in materials science and rapidly developing technologies are leading to new approaches to engineering concretes and building infrastructure. Reza Moini, assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering at Princeton University, discusses his work with concrete, 3D-printing techniques and how his lab takes inspiration from nature a…

1
2024 Election Drama: Navigating the Chaos with Faith and Wisdom 1:18:34

6M ago1:18:34

1:18:34

Buckle up, folks! This episode is diving headfirst into the whirlwind of the 2024 elections. Join us as we unpack the drama, the debates, and the dilemmas facing Christians this election season. **Hot Topics Include**: - **Faith and Politics**: How should Christians balance their beliefs with their votes? We'll explore the intersection of faith and…

1
National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource Pilot 13:04

6M ago13:04

13:04

The world of artificial intelligence is changing the way people live, work and think. This new frontier is also shifting the world of scientific research and has led the U.S. National Science Foundation to launch the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource pilot. Tess deBlanc-Knowles, NSF special assistant to the director for AI, discuss…

1
Biology and Living Systems 23:46

6M ago23:46

23:46

To advance the understanding of complex living systems, research must have an integration of scientific disciplines. Pankaj Jaiswal, a program officer in the U.S. National Science Foundation Division of Integrative Organismal Systems' Plant Genome Research Program, and Robyn Smyth, a program director in the NSF Division of Environmental Biology's E…

1
Blame Game: The Devil Made Me Do It! 1:02:21

6M ago1:02:21

1:02:21

Get ready for a no-holds-barred Q&A session! We're diving headfirst into some of the most contentious questions from you, our listeners! Why do people blame the devil for their poor decisions? Is it just a convenient excuse, or is there more to it? Can women take the pulpit as pastors? We're unpacking the heated debates and biblical interpretations…

1
Global Artificial Intelligence Research Agenda (Part 2) 16:48

7M ago16:48

16:48

An interagency effort has crafted a document to support the entire artificial intelligence research ecosystem, from foundational discoveries to societal applications. Jillian Mammino, a contractor at the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs; Mary Beech, director of workers and technology…

1
Bioplastics from Bacteria 16:22

7M ago16:22

16:22

Plastics are foundational in modern life, but only a fraction of those produced are recycled. WashU researchers Arpita Bose, associate professor of biology; Eric Conners, a graduate student; and Tahina Ranaivoarisoa, a lab manager in the Bose Lab, discuss purple bacteria and how they might be used to produce biodegradable bioplastics.…

1
Santa Claus a Witch and a Rabbi walk into a bar... 1:03:04

7M ago1:03:04

1:03:04

You asked and we answered! Join Ken and Josh as they tackle the tough questions you need answers to. In this episode we unpack the truth about Sex, Lust and Marriage; should Christians celebrate holidays like Christmas & Halloween, and to what degree; and which day is truly the Sabbath? The great debate continues. Tune in as we ponder these thought…

1
Pigment CEO, Eleonore Crespo – on Startup Scaling & Leadership Growth 57:35

7M ago57:35

57:35

The intricacies of entrepreneurship and scaling a startup are massive – from hiring talent to raising capital to securing customers, the clock is often the enemy. Today, we dive into the life of launching and running a startup with Eleonore Crespo, CEO of Pigment, a fast-growth company based in Paris. Eleonore and I discuss the rewards of leadershi…

1
Global Artificial Intelligence Research Agenda 19:45

7M ago19:45

19:45

An interagency effort has crafted a document to serve as a starting point to align an international artificial intelligence research vision. Michael Littman, the division director of the U.S. National Science Foundation Information and Intelligent Systems in the NSF Directorate for Computer and Information Science and Engineering, and Joshua E. Por…

1
Building Stuff 22:15

7M ago22:15

22:15

Engineering is critical in modern society, from building bridges and homes to designing computers and life-saving medical devices. Nehemiah Mabry, a structural engineer and host of the NSF-supported series “Building Stuff with NOVA,” discusses streaming the live show every weekday and how it engages its audience through engineering news, games and …

1
Lost in the Dough: Finding our Identity + #DonutGate 1:05:57

7M ago1:05:57

1:05:57

Struggling with today’s identity crisis? You’re not alone. In this episode, we tackle the chaos of modern identity confusion and reveal how you can find clarity and purpose. Discover how biblical truths offer a solid foundation amidst societal upheaval, hear compelling stories of transformation, and get practical advice on standing firm in your God…

1
NSF's Chief Human Capital Officer – Wonzie Gardner 1:06:02

8M ago1:06:02

1:06:02

Has your approach to leadership and organizational culture evolved? Navigating these areas can be challenging—especially with the rapid changes in today’s workforce and work environments. In this episode, I sit down with Wonzie Gardner to explore the complexities of modern leadership and organizational dynamics. Together, we dive into critical area…

1
Optical Transparency with Food Dye 16:44

8M ago16:44

16:44

Imaging is central to biology and medicine, but light refracts and scatters as it hits tissues and lipids. Zihao Ou, associate professor of physics at The University of Texas at Dallas, discusses his paper demonstrating a new technique to achieve optical transparency in live tissue, a project he worked on in Guosong Hong's research group as a postd…

1
Wall of Wind 14:47

8M ago14:47

14:47

At the U.S. National Science Foundation Natural Hazards Engineering Research Infrastructure Wall of Wind Experimental Facility, researchers seek to better understand wind effects on civil infrastructure systems and to prevent wind hazards from becoming community disasters. Arindam Chowdhury, director and principal investigator at the facility, disc…

1
Loving Through Differences: A Christian Take on the Olympic Ceremony 1:04:26

8M ago1:04:26

1:04:26

We delve into the recent controversy surrounding the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, which sparked intense debate among Christians and beyond. Join us as we explore the complex interplay of faith, gender representation, and the call to love those who disagree with or even despise us. Tune in as we unpack the controversial elements of the ceremony,…

1
Merlin 20:02

8M ago20:02

20:02

People who enjoy birdwatching can provide valuable citizen science observation. An application called Merlin Bird ID can help users of all experience levels. Miyoko Chu, senior director of communications at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, discusses Merlin Bird ID, its development, and how new features have impacted birding and conservation efforts.…

1
Quantum for All 20:28

8M ago20:28

20:28

A quantum-educated workforce will be essential in the future; however, most students are not introduced to quantum mechanics until taking physics courses late into their college careers. Karen Jo Matsler, assistant professor at The University of Texas at Arlington, joins to discuss the Quantum for All initiative to expose K-12 students to the princ…

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