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The law is out of date on topics regarding how the mind works and how much social influence can sway people to do and believe things that are not common sense. Dr. Cutler has done cutting edge work in forensics and law enforcement analysis. He serves at Fielding Graduate University as both a Professor and Program Director. Social Psychology is one of the pillars of the Mental Health profession. In our current world, so many people are being influenced to believe things that are utterly absurd and follow leaders who are unqualified and even pathological. One especially important area of his work is testifying in courts about false confessions made in police interrogations. Cutler has held research grants from the National Science Foundation of the United States and the Social Science & Humanities Research Council of Canada. He has worked on many publications, including Editor and Author of The APA Handbook of Forensic Psychology, the Encyclopedia of Psychology and Law, Reform of Eyewitness Identification Procedures, Conviction of the Innocent: Lessons from Psychological Research, and five other books. Come learn about important social psychology principles that will help us navigate the complexities of 2025. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ut2S8KpSRrC-4lcH4dEYHvO7CGAVtvSm/view Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the face of insect decline, it is critical for us to understand pollinator health both in terms of influencing factors and how to monitor those impacts. Today we are specifically focusing on bees.To talk about some exciting research in this field is Dr. Laura (la-u-ra) Figueroa (fig-eh-row-ah). Laura is an Assistant Professor in the Environmental Conservation Department at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She was previously a National Science Foundation post-doctoral research fellow, and completed her PhD in entomology at Cornell University. Laura is broadly interested in insect conservation, with a focus on the health of pollinators in changing landscapes and the impacts of climate change. She has worked in temperate regions (primarily the Northeastern US) as well as in the tropics (in Costa Rica and in Colombia), and her active research program seeks to answer pressing questions in the field of pollinator conservation.---Photo: Sara Morris / CC BY-NC 2.0Thank you for listening! For more information go to xerces.org/bugbanter.
Dan Zehner from the U.S. National Science Foundation's NHERI returns to the podcast this week. He talks about some of the key reports generated by their institutions in the past year. One particular StEER report on Hurricane Milton showed a huge dataset collected about the storm and its impact on homes and other infrastructure along the storm's path.
In this episode of 'The Wisdom Of...' Show, host Simon Bowen speaks with Pam Johnson, a sixth-generation farmer and groundbreaking agricultural leader. As the first female president of the National Corn Growers Association and a founding member of MAIZALL (International Maize Alliance), Pam has led scientific initiatives including the final mapping of the corn genome while successfully transitioning a multi-generational family enterprise. Discover her profound insights on stewardship, character-building through adversity, and the "antenna up" philosophy that guides transformational leadership.Ready to elevate your leadership approach? Join Simon's exclusive masterclass on The Models Method. Learn how to articulate your unique value and create scalable impact: https://thesimonbowen.com/masterclassEpisode Breakdown00:00 Introduction and the importance of agricultural leadership wisdom05:18 From registered nurse to sixth-generation farmer: Pam's unique journey12:36 The turning point: Standing up at the bankruptcy hearing18:52 The "antenna up" philosophy: Paying attention to what the world needs25:44 Breaking barriers as the first female National Corn Growers Association president33:29 Leading the corn genome mapping project: Science meets agriculture38:22 Building international alliances through MAIZALL45:36 Succession planning: Transitioning the farm to the next generation52:12 Resilience lessons from the 1980s farming crisis and 1998 hog market collapse58:43 Character under pressure: The farming laboratory for leadership developmentAbout Pam JohnsonPam Johnson is a pioneering agricultural leader whose influence extends far beyond farming. As the first female president of the National Corn Growers Association, she broke significant ground while leading groundbreaking scientific initiatives. As chair of the NCGA Research and Business Development Action Team, she collaborated with the USDA and National Science Foundation to facilitate the final mapping of the corn genome, a breakthrough that transformed agricultural science globally.Johnson's commitment to advancing agriculture extends internationally through her role as a founding member and former president of MAIZALL, the International Maize Alliance, which unites corn grower associations from Argentina, Brazil, and the United States to address global trade barriers and promote agricultural innovation.Before dedicating herself full-time to farming, Johnson worked as a registered nurse, bringing a unique perspective to her agricultural endeavors. Her multifaceted career and unwavering dedication to the farming community have earned her recognition as the 2024 Top Producer Women in Ag award winner.About Simon BowenSimon has spent over two decades working with influential leaders across complex industries. His focus is on elevating thinking in organizations, recognizing that success is directly proportional to the quality of thinking and ideas within a business. Simon leads the renaissance of thinking through his work with global leaders and organizations.Connect with SimonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonbowen-mm/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialsimonbowen/Website: https://thesimonbowen.com/Get Simon Bowen's Personal Newsletter for Leaders, Thinkers, and Entrepreneurs!
Jose, a technician at the Kavli Nanoscience Institute (KNI) at Caltech, discusses his role in microfabrication, using equipment like ellipsometers and atomic force microscopes. He describes his daily routine, including wearing a bunny suit for safety. Jose shares his educational journey, starting from Pasadena City College, and his plans to transfer and work in a clean room. He highlights the unexpected challenges of learning new techniques and the impact of the East Canyon fire on his family, which forced them to relocate. Despite these challenges, Jose continues his studies and work, emphasizing the importance of extracurricular involvement and resilience.The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education grant program.Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.Links from the show:Episode Web Page:https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/Kavli Nanoscience Institute (KNI) at Caltech:https://kni.caltech.edu/
Garrison filmmakers examine the question The team behind Ironbound Films leans into its religious roots. "We met at a Jewish sleepaway camp as kids - it's such a part of our identity," says Jeremy Newberger, one of three director/producers at the documentary film and commercial video office located at Garrison's Landing. "Part of the crisis du jour is that the far right and the far left are united in their hatred of Jews. We were taught to embrace our Judaism and love for Israel." Ironbound's most recent film, released this year, is Fiddler on the Moon, about Jewish astronauts. According to their cheeky marketing copy, which Newberger says was inspired by Mel Brooks' Spaceballs, the film "finally answers the question that has plagued scientists, theologians and comedians for millennia: Will Judaism survive in space?" Many cities, small and large, host Jewish film festivals; over the summer, the crew will screen the 30-minute documentary in Dayton, Ohio; Toronto; Rochester; Berkshire, Massachusetts; and Tampa. They also screen films for Jewish organizations, camps and foundations. At first, the trio, which includes Seth Kramer and Daniel Miller, tackled secular topics like climate change (The Anthropologist), talk show host Morton Downey Jr. (Evocateur) and dying languages (The Linguist), but a friend who worked for Major League Baseball suggested they cover the Israeli national baseball team, made up mostly of American Jews. Heading Home: The Tale of Team Israel led to a second film about the club's experience at the 2021 Olympics, Israel Swings for Gold. After completing Yung Punx, a doc about a band of 8- to 12-year-olds who headlined at the Warped Tour, Ironbound produced Blind Spot, an examination of antisemitism on college campuses. "We're all in our 50s, and there comes a time when you realize that you got away from your faith," says Newberger. "Doing the baseball film got us reconnected to the values and religion we grew up with. It hit us. We identified." Ironbound has filmed on nearly every continent (including on the Pacific Ocean island of Kiribati). Funding comes from business clients, angel investors and grants from the National Science Foundation. Now in production is a documentary about David "Mickey" Marcus, the only person buried at West Point who fought for a foreign country. David Ben-Gurion, Israel's first prime minister, handpicked Marcus to establish the nascent nation's army in 1948 during the war for independence. Killed by friendly fire, Marcus was the last fatality of the conflict before the United Nations implemented a truce between Israel and its neighbors. "When you think you've heard it all, you come across Mickey Marcus, who is an incredible but little-known figure," says Kramer. "On its own, the story is a winner: Before he went to Israel, he helped put mobster Lucky Luciano away, drafted surrender papers for Italy used for all the other Axis powers and helped define the term war crime for the Nuremberg trials." The film will investigate why Marcus' name recognition is limited and how the 1966 Hollywood biopic, Cast a Giant Shadow, starring Kirk Douglas, John Wayne and Frank Sinatra, flopped at the box office. For more information, see ironboundfilms.com.
Jennie Liss Ohayon, PhD, Impacts of California's Proposition 65 Dr. Jennie Liss Ohayon is a Research Scientist at Silent Spring Institute, specializing in environmental policy, community-engaged research, and environmental justice. She is currently working on projects to report back to study participants and community partners in the U.S. and Chile their exposures to endocrine disrupting chemicals. She also researches the emergence of scientific and activist concerns around industrial chemicals with Northeastern's PFAS lab, and, in collaboration with co-investigators at the University of California, Berkeley, is evaluating the effectiveness of California-based legislation that aims to reduce or eliminate exposures to toxic substances. With the support of the Massachusetts Toxic Use Reduction Institute, she recently partnered with high schools across the state to translate environmental health research into hands-on curriculum that helps students reduce toxic exposures. She works with the Environmental Data and Governance Initiative, a network formed to address threats to federal environmental policy and data, to track changes to EPA's structure and science production. Dr. Ohayon completed her PhD at the University of California, Santa Cruz researching the remediation of toxic waste in military Superfund sites. With research support from the EPA's Science to Achieve Results fellowship and the National Science Foundation, she did fieldwork to evaluate how policy around public participation and environmental justice is translated into cleanup programs. She also used data from all military Superfund sites for quantitative and spatial analyses of how factors such as the race and class demographics of surrounding neighborhoods contribute to how quickly sites are remediated. During this time, she created an interactive curriculum in environmental sciences for high school students that are disproportionately affected by environmental problems and who come from communities that are underrepresented in the field of environmental science. Prior to beginning her PhD, Dr. Ohayon worked in two conservation biology laboratories and led education and recreation programs for children in low-income housing. She received her bachelor's degree from the University of Toronto, with majors in biology and political science. In her free time, she enjoys traveling (she's explored six continents) and various food-related pursuits—gardening, canning, and of course eating delicious vegetarian food! Links mentioned in the podcast: Chemical Exposure Warnings (Proposition 65 Warnings) California Told Companies to Label Toxic Chemicals. Instead They're Quietly Dropping Them How a Right-to-Know Law Shifts Industry away from Chemicals of Concern: The Case of California's Proposition 65 The Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) Silent Spring's tips (including tip sheets and our Detox Me app)
On this week's show, your host, Justin Mog, praises the worms with Sam Baker, Chief Executive Officer of WriggleBrew (https://www.wrigglebrew.com/). Sam runs a sustainable startup funded by the National Science Foundation using earthworms to destroy plastic, and doing some really cool research drawing in agriculture, microbiology, and other fascinating topics. Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn about plastic-eating microbes and the future of Trash to Treasure — Discover how engineered microbes are transforming plastic waste into fertile soil amendments. We also dive into worm castings: nature's secret weapon for supercharged crops — Learn how earthworms turn scraps into powerful plant-boosting compost; Brewing “Liquid Gold” with an inside look at WriggleBrew's worm tea production — Go behind the scenes of how they brew shelf-stable worm tea that's revolutionizing soil health; Mycorrhizae Magic: fungi and worms unite for healthier plants — Explore how beneficial fungi partner with worms to turbocharge root growth; and Zero-Waste Farming — Learn how their system transforms organic waste into high-value soil products, closing the loop on farm sustainability. As always, our feature is followed by your community action calendar for the week, so get your calendars out and get ready to take action for sustainability NOW! Sustainability Now! is hosted by Dr. Justin Mog and airs on Forward Radio, 106.5fm, WFMP-LP Louisville, every Monday at 6pm and repeats Tuesdays at 12am and 10am. Find us at http://forwardradio.org The music in this podcast is courtesy of the local band Appalatin and is used by permission. Explore their delightful music at http://appalatin.com
This episode marks Part 3 of a special mini-series - produced by Middle Tech in collaboration with the GAME Change coalition. Over the course of three episodes, we'll explore how Kentucky and Tennessee are working to become a national hub for circular economy innovation and sustainable manufacturing. This initiative is part of a regional effort to secure a $160 million grant from the National Science Foundation's Engines Program.Two years ago, a small group of visionaries began mapping out a bold idea: to build the U.S. innovation hub for circular economy technologies right here in the Southeast Commerce Corridor. That idea has grown into GAME Change - a 400+ member coalition of universities, national labs, policy leaders, and private industry partners reshaping the future of manufacturing in Kentucky and Tennessee.Middle Tech has been closely embedded in this journey from the start, documenting key moments, stakeholder voices, and the growing momentum behind a new vision for regional economic developmentGAME Change Website: https://gamechangeengine.org/NSF Regional Innovation Engines Program: https://www.nsf.gov/funding/initiativ...Attend GAME Change's 5th summit on September 17, 2025 at Lexmark International, Lexington, KY
“I am so thankful that we had that one Christmas without knowing…” Jill Wood.When Jill's son Jonah was born, there was no sign that he was anything but adorable. However, at his 1-year visit, his pediatrician noted Jonah's larger than normal head and several other symptoms. He connected the dots and ordered further testing. Eventually Jonah was diagnosed with Sanfilippo Syndrome or mucopolysaccharidosis type III (MPS III). Jill began connecting with other Sanfilippo families and eventually started a company to search for treatments. She found along the way that she could find support from willing researchers, win grants from the National Science Foundation, and even overcome language barriers to reach families around the world. She has made great progress and is very grateful for all the help she has received. As you can imagine, Jill is very energetic. Her story is inspiring and educational. Her main piece of advice to newly diagnosed parents, “Take a deep breath and calm down. Appreciate your child.”
In this episode of The World of Higher Education Podcast, Alex Usher discusses the Trump administration's unprecedented actions against science and universities. Billions of dollars in funding from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health have been stripped, international students are facing deportation, and low-income students are seeing cuts to loans and grants. Brendan Cantwell from Michigan State University returns to analyze these strategies and tactics, drawing on insights from the controversial Project 2025. They explore the administration's coercive measures, the sector's response, and the potential future of higher education under these policies. Please note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors.This episode is sponsored by KnowMeQ.ArchieCPL is the first AI-enabled tool that massively streamlines credit for prior learning evaluation. Toronto based KnowMeQ makes ethical AI tools that boost and bottom line, achieving new efficiencies in higher ed and workforce upskilling.
A special T.A.C.O. Tuesday episode that starts with drama concerning a rapidly aging incontinent man who can't grow facial hair or dodge a punch, before shifting to concerns about increased data collection, MAHA's AI hallucinations, why communications from the CDC were a good thing, and Pam Bondi v the ADA (if performed by Jennifer Coolidge). Then, we shift to cover a Fyre fest inspired meme coin dinner, the value of Job Corps, and more denials of due process as communities unite to object. Additionally we delve into Ukraine's 'Operation Spiderwebs', the National Science Foundation, free classes at Harvard, and details about a slew of recent presidential pardons, including for Todd and Julie Chrisley.Find your representatives at USA.GOV and/or the "5 Calls" app and contact them, often.All opinions are personal and not representative of any outside company, person, or agenda. This podcast is hosted by a United States citizen, born and raised in a military family that is proud of this country's commitment to free speech. Information shared is cited via published articles, legal documents, press releases, government websites, executive orders, public videos, news reports, and/or direct quotes and statements, and all may be paraphrased for brevity and presented in layman's terms. “I love America more than any other country in the world and, exactly for this reason, I insist on the right to criticize her perpetually.” - James BaldwinWanna support this independent pod? Links below:BuyMeACoffee - https://www.buymeacoffee.com/BBDBVenmo @TYBBDB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mayor Kimo Alameda, community members react to the National Science Foundation's decision to cut funding for the Thirty Meter Telescope; HPR joins an early morning Point-in-Time count in Waikīkī
Dr. Adam Summers is a Professor in the School of Aquatic and Fisheries Sciences and Department of Biology at the University of Washington, and he conducts research in his lab within the Friday Harbor Laboratories there. With a background in engineering and mathematics, Adam works on applying engineering and physics principles to living systems. He uses lessons from the natural world to develop solutions to real-world problems like how to filter things, stick to things, burrow in sand, and move quickly and efficiently under water. Adam and his family live on a small island where they enjoy hiking and hanging out by the sea shore together. In addition, Adam is a licensed pilot, so you can often spot him spending his free time flying small planes. He completed his bachelor's degree in mathematics and engineering at Swarthmore College, and afterwards worked as a SCUBA instructor in Australia. Adam next decided to pursue graduate school, receiving his master's degree in Biology from New York University and his PhD in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology from the University of Massachusetts. He received a Miller Research Postdoctoral fellowship to conduct research at the University of California, Berkeley and went on to serve as a faculty member at UC, Irvine before joining the faculty at the University of Washington. Adam has been named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. In addition, he was awarded the Bartholmew Prize for physiology research from the Society of Integrative and Comparative Biology, the UC, Irvine Academic Senate prize for undergraduate teaching, as well as the Directors award for program management excellence from the National Science Foundation. He also writes a monthly biomechanics column in Natural History Magazine and served as scientific advisor for the Pixar films “Finding Nemo” and the recently released sequel “Finding Dory”. Adam is here with us today to talk a little about his research and tell us all about his journey through life and science.
Justin, a test engineer at Entegris in Prior Lake, Minnesota, discusses his career progression from working as technician to becoming an engineer. As a test engineer, Justin tests materials and designs using metrology and microscopy. Previously, Justin worked as an applications technician at Optima, where he demonstrated aerosol jet technology to customers. Justin emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, networking, and building relationships. He advises current students to gain practical skills, pursue their interests, and consider community colleges for cost-effective educational experiences.The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education grant program.Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.Links from the show:Episode Web Page:https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/Careers at Entegris: https://www.entegris.com/careers
Grant funding by the National Science Foundation has been cut by more than half this year, bringing the foundation's science funding to its lowest level in decades. Katrina Miller, who covers science for the New York Times, joins Host Flora Lichtman to unpack the cutbacks and discuss where the funding changes might lead.And, the FDA has cleared a blood test to help diagnose Alzheimer's disease. The first-of-its-kind test measures the levels of amyloid and tau proteins in a patient's blood, two major biomarkers of the disease. Alzheimer's researcher Jason Karlawish joins Flora to explain this new diagnostic tool and what it means for patients.Guests:Katrina Miller is a science reporter for The New York Times based in Chicago.Dr. Jason Karlawish is a professor of medicine, medical ethics and health policy, and neurology at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine, and co-director of the Penn Memory Center, based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Transcripts for each segment will be available after the show airs on sciencefriday.com. Subscribe to this podcast. Plus, to stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.
This episode marks Part 2 of a special mini-series - produced by Middle Tech in collaboration with the GAME Change coalition. Over the course of three episodes, we'll explore how Kentucky and Tennessee are working to become a national hub for circular economy innovation and sustainable manufacturing. This initiative is part of a regional effort to secure a $160 million grant from the National Science Foundation's Engines Program.Two years ago, a small group of visionaries began mapping out a bold idea: to build the U.S. innovation hub for circular economy technologies right here in the Southeast Commerce Corridor. That idea has grown into GAME Change - a 400+ member coalition of universities, national labs, policy leaders, and private industry partners reshaping the future of manufacturing in Kentucky and Tennessee.Middle Tech has been closely embedded in this journey from the start, documenting key moments, stakeholder voices, and the growing momentum behind a new vision for regional economic developmentGAME Change Website: https://gamechangeengine.org/NSF Regional Innovation Engines Program: https://www.nsf.gov/funding/initiativ...Attend GAME Change's 5th summit on September 17, 2025 at Lexmark International, Lexington, KY
Welcome back to this person I met! My name is Kayla, and I'm the host of this podcast. The voice you just heard is professor Allen Liu from the University of Michigan. As you may have heard from the news, the scientific pipeline is facing a major crisis. Since January, the federal government has terminated over 1600 active research grants, worth roughly 1.5 billion, proposing a 37% cut to the National institute of health and a 56% cut to the National Science Foundation. But, what do these numbers mean? To professor Liu, whose life has been built upon science, the numbers spell out a massive change for STEM. The future of research, determined by Liu, is uncertain. In this episode, he explains the numbers and their potential impact on generations of scientists to come, and raises the question of what really is at stake when you neglect the scientific pipeline.
Federal funding for research from the National Science Foundation is being awarded at the slowest rate in 35 years, according to an investigation from the New York Times. Since the start of Trump’s second term, cuts to National Institutes of Health and NSF grants have totaled more than 1.5 billion, according to the research publication Science. Republicans have justified these cuts by claiming the administration is rooting out wasteful spending, or left-wing ideology run amok. And these attacks, along with threats of funding freezes for universities, have reportedly created a culture of fear for researchers. It’s left scientists wondering: do I speak up about what’s happening? Or do I stay quiet, in hopes my funding might be restored? One Seattle researcher with a lot of experience in political communication and information systems is saying: speak up. Guest: Kate Starbird is the co-founder of the University of Washington’s Center for an Informed Public. She’s also a professor at the Department of Human Centered Design & Engineering (HCDE). Related stories: Trump’s ‘fear factor’: Scientists go silent as funding cuts escalate - Science Trump Has Cut Science Funding to Its Lowest Level in Decades - NYT To understand right-wing media’s power, study improv and theater of influencers - Seattle Times Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As we continue our tour of the US National Science Foundation Regional Innovation Engines, today we're headed to North Carolina.Tim Bertram and Jesse Thornburg of the Piedmont Triad Regenerative Medicine Engine are taking us into the lab to give us a crash course in what regenerative medicine is, and how their Engine is helping regenerative medicine companies build, grow, and scale in the Piedmont Triad region through access to world-class resources, expertise, space, and collaboration opportunities to create economic impact.Tim is currently serving as CEO for the Regenerative Medicine Engine funded by the National Science Foundation, focusing on economic development through translation and commercialization of regenerative medical technologies. He was previously founder and CEO of four biotechnology companies, served on the board of directors of multiple companies, and worked on the development of 8 registered medical products while serving as a scientific leader and senior executive at Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE}, SmithKline Beecham Pharmaceuticals, and The Procter & Gamble Company {NYSE: PG}. He started his career as a faculty member at the University of Illinois, was a visiting scientist at the National Institutes of Health, authored over 150 publications and invented over 100 patents.Jesse has worked as a researcher and in operations, building diverse research teams in a Comprehensive Cancer Center and Clinical Translational Science Institute. His business experience stems from starting and operating a successful business and setting up a trust to provide capital to help growing businesses scale. Dr. Thornburg is passionate about helping businesses and economic ecosystems change lives.Listen to the full episode to hear:How advances in regenerative medicine can positively impact outcomes for both patients and the healthcare system at largeHow the Piedmont Triad Regenerative Medicine Engine is working to develop an integrated supply chain for regenerative therapies in order to scaleHow the regenerative medicine ecosystem encompasses patients, workforce, researchers, entrepreneurs, businesses, and moreHow the Regenerative Medicine Engine is fostering collaboration among companies that is pushing growth forwardWhat we stand to lose regionally, nationally, and even globally if we don't continue to invest in regenerative medicineLearn more about Tim Bertram:Connect On LinkedInLearn more about Jesse Thornburg:Connect on LinkedInLearn more about Anika Horn:Social VenturersSign up for Impact CuratorInstagram: @socialventurersResources:Piedmont Triad Regenerative Medical EngineStan ParkerFettechJoshua BogerAnthony Atala: Printing a human kidney | TED Talk
TWiV reviews cuts in National Science Foundation budgets, cuts to Harvard University grants, judge blocks ban on Harvard enrolling international students, DOGE ordered cuts of NIH grants, endemic coronavirus infection induces Fc receptor binding antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, and inherited IFNAR1 deficiency causing adverse reactions to measles and yellow fever infectious vaccines. Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and Angela Mingarelli Subscribe (free): Apple Podcasts, RSS, email Become a patron of TWiV! Links for this episode Support science education at MicrobeTV NSF funding cut to lowest level (NY Times) 1,000 grants cut at Harvard University (Nature) Administration ban on international students at Harvard blocked (CNN) DOGE killed NIH grants (Nature) Endemic coronavirus infection induces FcR binding antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 (J Virol) IFNAR1 deficiency and severe reaction to measles and yellow fever vaccines (J Exp Med) Letters read on TWiV 1221 Timestamps by Jolene Ramsey. Thanks! Weekly Picks Angela – Contact lenses that give people infrared vision — even with their eyes shut (one, two) Alan – Autocrats are afraid of you – see the graphic, especially. Vincent – How One Company Secretly Poisoned The Planet Intro music is by Ronald Jenkees Send your virology questions and comments to twiv@microbe.tv Content in this podcast should not be construed as medical advice.
The idea that schools simply deliver objective and neutral knowledge and skills to our young humans is a complete myth. In fact, with the amount of time that we spend in them over the course of our early lives, schools are incredibly good at conditioning us into particular sets of assumptions about the way the world works. My guest this week, Dr Ida Rose Florez is calling this out in amazing and very grounded ways and we discuss the impacts of what this does to our ability to be comfortable and competent in working with and in complexity (which is pretty much the place we all find ourselves in pretty consistently these days!). Ida Rose tells the full story brilliantly in her new book, The End of Education as We Know It: Regenerative Learning for Complex Times, as well as describing the examples of learning communities that are successfully doing education in whole new ways!Ida Rose Florez, PhD, is a transformative leader in education, dedicated to reshaping learning for a more sustainable future. As the author of The End of Education as We Know It: Regenerative Learning for Complex Times, she challenges traditional education models and advocates for schools that nurture individual growth and ecological responsibility.Ida Rose has spoken at a White House panel on Hispanic education, keynoted the Asian Preschool Education Annual Conference, and presented to leaders such as the governor of Shanghai and the California State Legislature. Over the last decades, Ida Rose has led statewide education initiatives in Arizona and California, was a National Science Foundation Advancing Informal Science Learning Principal Investigator and governing board vice president of the National Association for the Education of Young Children. She served as assessment subject-matter expert with the National Governor's Association and is a frequent grant reviewer for the National Science Foundation. She has also served on the board of the Human Systems Dynamics Institute. Ida Rose holds a Ph.D. in educational psychology from the University of Arizona. She has held faculty positions at Penn State University College of Medicine, University of Arizona College of Education, Northern Arizona University College of Education, and Arizona State University Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College. She is a certified Human Systems Dynamics Professional and certified Warm Data Host with the International Bateson Institute. In 2017 she founded a consulting practice serving U.S. and international clients that focuses on regenerative education.If people are interested, here is a blog post from Dave Snowden that touches on his view that we are unable to understand systems as wholes: https://thecynefin.co/regularities-reduction-2-2/And here is a video where Jiddu Krishnamurti talks about thinking itself being the cause of the fragmentation and separation: https://youtu.be/CvL4uNA4U-k?si=bLbWpiSaPHJ4K5-Z&t=1073Ida Rose's website: https://idaroseflorez.com/The book: https://theendofeducationasweknowit.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/idaroseflorez/
This episode marks Part 1 of a special mini-series - produced by Middle Tech in collaboration with the GAME Change coalition. Over the course of three episodes, we'll explore how Kentucky and Tennessee are working to become a national hub for circular economy innovation and sustainable manufacturing. This initiative is part of a regional effort to secure a $160 million grant from the National Science Foundation's Engines Program.Two years ago, a small group of visionaries began mapping out a bold idea: to build the U.S. innovation hub for circular economy technologies right here in the Southeast Commerce Corridor. That idea has grown into GAME Change - a 400+ member coalition of universities, national labs, policy leaders, and private industry partners reshaping the future of manufacturing in Kentucky and Tennessee.Middle Tech has been closely embedded in this journey from the start, documenting key moments, stakeholder voices, and the growing momentum behind a new vision for regional economic developmentGAME Change WebsiteNSF Regional Innovation Engines ProgramAttend GAME Change's 5th summit on September 17, 2025 at Lexmark International, Lexington, KY
The National Science Foundation is observing its 75th anniversary this month, but is also facing deep cuts. On today's show, we ask one professor of biological sciences what the NSF has meant to his career. Also, tracking the possible effects of cuts to Medicaid on rural maternal health. Plus, road construction occurs on a less-busy University of Arkansas campus.
Does government-funded science drive progress or distort it? Peter Klein uncovers the hidden costs, cronyism, and political agendas behind the National Science Foundation and federal research funding.Recorded at the Mises Institute in Auburn, Alabama, on May 17, 2025.
Logan is a Quality Tech 3 at Renewal by Anderson in Ellsworth, Wisconsin. Logan highlights career development opportunities at Anderson, including promotions to technologist positions. Logan notes that technicians can earn around $25 an hour and can secure benefits like 401(k) plans and PTO. Logan contrasts his experience at a large company with his previous role at a small firm. Hear how Logan emphasizes the importance of asking questions, critical thinking, and independence, learned from his nanotechnology program at Dakota County Technical College. Logan advises aspiring technicians to gain experience and consider furthering their education.The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education grant program.Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.Links from the show:Episode Web Page:https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/Jobs at Renewal by Anderson: https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/careers
The Page One Podcast, produced and hosted by author Holly Lynn Payne, celebrates the craft that goes into writing the first sentence, first paragraph and first page of your favorite books. The first page is often the most rewritten page of any book because it has to work so hard to do so much—hook the reader. We interview master storytellers on the struggles and stories behind the first page of their books.About the guest authors:Jon Chandonnet is a life coach, author of Shadow Summit: A Journey from.M.S. to The Other Side of Impossible and found of VibrantU Academy. At thirty-three, Jon thought living a vibrant life meant setting goals and working long hours and hard days to make things happen. Living by that credo he accomplished a lot. He earned his master's from MIT, led teams to develop software to launch startups, ran a couple marathons, and scaled several 14,000-foot California peaks. Jon was well on his way—or so he thought—but he was a ticking time bomb.He'd been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis six years earlier. He ignored it completely and instead pushed himself to extremes. He lived in denial—ignoring his diagnosis in hopes of literally outrunning the disease. The running ended and the disease caught up. Jon's health declined and led him on an eight-year odyssey to understand life's essential elements. He wanted to find a way to minimize the impact of the disease. He wanted his health back and to create a full life despite the MS. During the journey, Jon found seven essential elements allowing him to track daily actions and habits in pursuit of the healthiest, most fulfilled, and joyful life possible. He realized others could benefit from the insights. Jon found a way to simplify life, strip away the chaos and unimportant to focus on what matters. The result was the 7 VIBRANTs ™ well-being system.About the host:Holly Lynn Payne is an award-winning novelist and writing coach, and the former CEO and founder of Booxby, a startup that built an AI book discovery platform with a grant from the National Science Foundation. She is an internationally published author of four historical fiction novels. Her debut, The Virgin's Knot, was a Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers book. Her latest book, Rose Girl: A Story of Roses and Resilience, a medieval, mystical thriller was awarded a Kirkus (starred) review and named Editors Choice from the Historical Novel Society. Holly lives on a houseboat near the Golden Gate Bridge with her daughter and Labrador retriever, and enjoys mountain biking, hiking, swimming and pretending to surf. To learn more about her books and writing coaching services, please visit her at hollylynnpayne.com and subscribe to her FREE weekly mini-masterclass, Power of Page One, a newsletter on Substack, offering insights on becoming a better storyteller and tips on hooking readers from page one! (And bonus: discover some great new books!)Tune in and reach out:If you're an aspiring writer or a book lover, this episode of Page One offers a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice. I offer these conversations as a testament to the magic that happens when master storytellers share their secrets and experiences. We hope you are inspired to tune into the full episode for more insights. Keep writing, keep reading, and remember—the world needs your stories. If I can help you tell your own story, or help improve your first page, please reach out @hollylynnpayne or visithollylynnpayne.com. You can listen to Page One on Apple podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, Stitcher and all your favorite podcast players. Hear past episodes. If you're interested in getting writing tips and the latest podcast episode updates with the world's beloved master storytellers, please sign up for my very short monthly newsletter at hollylynnpayne.com and follow me @hollylynnpayne on Instagram, Twitter, Goodreads, and Facebook. Your email address is always private and you can always unsubscribe anytime. The Page One Podcast is created on a houseboat in Sausalito, California, is a labor of love in service to writers and book lovers. My intention is to inspire, educate and celebrate. Thank you for being a part of my creative community! Be well and keep reading,Holly Power of Page One, Substacka free weekly mini-masterclass@hollylynnpayne on IG Thank you for listening to the Page One Podcast! I hope you enjoyed this episode as much as I loved hosting, producing, and editing it. If you liked it too, here are three ways to share the love:Please share it on social and tag @hollylynnpayne.Leave a review on your favorite podcast players. Tell your friends. Please keep in touch by signing up to receive my Substack newsletter with the latest episodes each month. Delivered to your inbox with a smile. You can contact me at @hollylynnpayne on IG or send me a message on my website, hollylynnpayne.com.For the love of books and writers,Holly Lynn Payne@hollylynnpaynehost, author, writing coachwww.hollylynnpayne.com
https://www.acenet.edu/News-Room/Pages/Statement-on-Legal-Challenge-to-NSF-Indirect-Cost-Cap.aspxJon Fansmith, Mushtaq Gunja, and Sarah Spreitzer are joined by Steven Bloom, ACE assistant vice president for government relations, about the Trump administration's escalating actions against higher education. Topics include a joint statement from more than 50 associations condemning political attacks on colleges and universities, deep funding and tax cuts proposed in the House reconciliation bill, legal efforts to block new restrictions on research funding, and recent developments on DEI, international students, and campus antisemitism. Here are some of the links and references from this week's show. You can contact Congress about the House reconciliation bill using this tool. Restoring the Compact with Higher Ed Community Joint Statement Calling on Trump Administration to Reforge Compact with Higher Education ACE | May 14, 2025 ACE, Others Call on Trump Administration to Reforge Compact with Higher Education ACE | May 14, 2025 Harvard Response to Education Secretary Linda McMahon McMahon letter Harvard's response Harvard Argues It Has ‘Common Ground' With Trump Administration The New York Times (sub. req.) | May 12, 2025 AJC, ACE Antisemitism Statement AJC, ACE, AAU, Others Unite Against Antisemitism, Caution on Federal Overreach Funding & Budget Landscape Tax Reform and Higher Education in 2025 Summary: Higher Ed Provisions in the Ways and Means Tax Reconciliation Tax Package Letter to the House on Proposed Medicaid Cuts Skinny Budget & Appropriations White House Office of Management and Budget Releases the President's Fiscal Year 2026 Skinny Budget White House FY 2026 Budget Proposal Targets Education, Science, and Civil Rights Funding ACE | May 9, 2025 What Trump's Proposed Budget Cuts Mean for Education, Research Inside Higher Ed | May 2, 2025 National Science Foundation Lawsuit Higher Education Groups File Lawsuit Against NSF Cap on Research Reimbursements ACE | May 5, 2025 Statement of AAU, ACE, and APLU Regarding their Legal Challenge to the National Science Foundation's Cut to Critical Research That Strengthens America
Repair shop owners today face a new kind of complexity: how to keep up with rapidly advancing vehicle technology without falling behind in training, tools, or talent.As modern vehicles become “computers on wheels,” the pressure to repair them properly is growing. Systems like ADAS and interconnected sensors demand up-to-date knowledge and precise calibration—raising the stakes for every technician in the bay.Join Matt Di Francesco and Pam Oakes, SME Auto technical app engineering consultant $ business intelligence, as they explore what it takes to stay ahead in a high-tech repair world—and why elevating the industry's image starts with investing in continuous learning.Matt and Pam also talk about:(02:23) The risks body shops face when repair protocols aren't followed(03:05) Why body shops should commit to training(05:24) The worst thing that a technician can ever experience(07:58) Why ASE Certification matters more than a recommendation(14:44) Why we won't see a fully autonomous car in the next 5 years(23:34) Why today's technicians are comparable to rocket scientists(24:12) How younger technicians bring fresh ideas to the shop(25:10) How can independent shops thrive in the future(27:46) An important reminder when searching for training onlineConnect With Pam OakesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamoakesase-eet/Website: https://www.autoINENG.ioEmail: autoINENG@gmail.comConnect With Matt DiFrancesco:matt@highliftfin.com(814)201-5855LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancescoLinkedIn: High Lift FinancialFacebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financialYoutube: @highliftfinancialAbout the guest:Pam Oakes is a Subject Matter Expert Consultant in Automotive App Engineering and Business Intelligence at autoINENG.io, where she helps drive innovation across the automotive industry. With decades of hands-on experience, Pam specializes in ADAS and HVAC systems and serves on the National Science Foundation's NCAT advisory committee as well as the SAE International Task Force.In addition to her consulting work, Pam is a developer designer at Automotive Aids, where she and her team hold two pending patents for OEM sensors and have created a nationally recognized invention that is now available in major retail outlets like Ace Hardware. Pam is passionate about equipping the automotive industry with cutting-edge solutions and sharing her expertise to elevate standards and practices across the field.Disclaimer:All information is obtained from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. No tax or legal advice is given nor intended. Content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here.High Lift Financial is a DBA for DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC. Investment advisory services are provided through Cornerstone Planning Group, LLC, an independent advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Forever chemicals, also known as PFAS, are found in virtually every corner of the world, including in most people’s bodies. These synthetic compounds have been linked to a wide range of health issues — from infertility to cancer to neurological problems — even at low levels of exposure. In a new book, They Poisoned the World: Life and Death in the Age of Forever Chemicals, investigative journalist Mariah Blake lays out how these toxic chemicals became so ubiquitous. Blake spoke with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu about a group of unlikely activists fighting back against those responsible and offers practical tips to protect yourself.For some resources recommended by Blake, go to the National Science Foundation’s page on PFAS in drinking water.
Late last month, the National Science Foundation, a U.S. federal agency that supports scientific research, terminated more than 400 grants that related to misinformation, disinformation and diversity, equity and inclusion. A proposed budget from the Trump administration would also cut the NSF budget in half. Kate Starbird is the co-founder of UW’s Center for an Informed Public. She joins us to share more about the broader impacts of these cuts.
The National Science Foundation is taking steps to slash its workforce, including reducing the number of senior executive service roles as well as temporary and non-federal roles, according to an internal memo to staff obtained by FedScoop. The memo was emailed to staff Friday afternoon by Chief Management Officer Micah Cheatham. It also included plans to require in-person work starting June 16 and the elimination of the Division of Equity for Excellence in STEM in the next two months, which it announced publicly Friday as well. Details of the agency's workforce reduction plans come after its termination of hundreds of grants that don't align with President Donald Trump's policies, such as those that included diversity, equity and inclusion activities. Amid those actions, Sethuraman Panchanathan resigned his position as NSF's director. Panchanathan had been appointed by Trump during the president's first term. Per the memo, NSF began on Thursday a reduction-in-force of its senior executive service workforce, which is a designation for federal senior leadership and management officials. Of the 143 total SES roles — including vacant positions — that NSF had on Jan. 20, just 59 are needed under the agency's “new organizational structure and proposed future year budgets.” A bipartisan group of senators introduced legislation last week that would scale back the Transportation Security Administration's facial recognition program, giving travelers the right to not have their faces scanned when passing through airports. The lawmakers say their push for the Traveler Privacy Protection Act comes as the Department of Homeland Security component seeks to expand the use of facial recognition at hundreds of airports. Specifically, the bill would require the TSA to clearly inform passengers of their right to not participate in the DHS facial recognition program and bar the agency from providing worse treatment to passengers that choose not to participate. The legislation would also forbid the TSA from storing traveler facial recognition data indefinitely and from using the technology to target people or conduct mass surveillance. Sens. Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., John Kennedy, R-La., Ed Markey, D-Mass., and Roger Marshall, R-Kan., are co-sponsors of the bill. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.
Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first mass as leader of the Roman Catholic Church Friday.USA TODAY Senior Congress Reporter Riley Beggin discusses how some Republican lawmakers are at odds as they work on a bill dealing with President Donald Trump's priorities.The National Science Foundation eliminates its equity division and cancels dozens more grants.India and Pakistan step up military strikes.USA TODAY Investigative Reporter Gina Barton gives us a peak of Untested. Listen to the exclusive series here.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
As World War II wound to an end, President Franklin Roosevelt asked his top scientific advisor a question: How could the type of research that helped win the war be applied to peacetime? The advisor suggested a new agency to support basic research at colleges and universities. It took a few years to work out the details. But 75 years ago today, President Harry Truman signed the law establishing that agency: the National Science Foundation. Over the decades, its mission has expanded into many fields, from chemistry and physics to computers and materials science. The list also includes astronomy. NSF established the first national observatories in 1956 – optical telescopes in Arizona, and radio telescopes in West Virginia. Today, NSF-supported facilities span the globe. They include observatories that no one was even dreaming of when the agency started. They hunt for the ghostly particles known as neutrinos, and listen for gravitational waves from merging black holes and neutron stars. NSF also is a partner in the Vera Rubin Observatory, which is scheduled to take its first peek at the universe this summer. Its giant telescope will scan a wide slice of the sky every night. It will discover exploding stars, asteroids, and other objects. It will map the Milky Way Galaxy. And it’ll provide new information about dark energy and dark matter – basic research that will teach us much more about the universe. Script by Damond Benningfield
Five former directors of the National Weather Service released a joint letter on Friday warning about the impact of major cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration that they say will result in less accurate weather reports and storm warnings that could put lives at risk. NOAA is just one scientific organization facing widespread cuts. From NASA to the National Institute of Health to the National Science Foundation, public research institutions have taken massive blows. We talk with reporters and a former NSW director about the future of science in the Trump Administration and beyond. Guests: EW (Joe) Friday, former director, National Weather Service Katherine Wu, staff writer, The Atlantic Geoff Brumfiel, senior editor and correspondent, NPR's science desk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Kourtney grew up in Southeast Michigan and received a Bachelor of Science in Anthropology & Environmental Studies from Western Michigan University. As an undergraduate she interned on the trail crew at Baxter State Park and fell in love with the state of Maine, so returned in 2010 to earn a Master of Science in Forest Resources from the University of Maine. Kourtney remained at UMaine and in 2016 became the first person to graduate with a PhD from the college's then newly inaugurated Anthropology and Environmental Policy doctoral program. As an applied environmental anthropologist, Kourtney has worked throughout Maine and Maritime Canada on a number of projects that she will describe today. Her work has been funded by the National Science Foundation, Wenner Gren Foundation, USDA Specialty Crop Research Initiative, Henry David Thoreau Foundation, and more. This conversation was recorded in April 2025. ~~~~~The Maine Science Podcast is a production of the Maine Discovery Museum. It is recorded at Discovery Studios, at the Maine Discovery Museum, in Bangor, ME. The Maine Science Podcast is hosted and executive produced by Kate Dickerson; edited and produced by Scott Loiselle. The Discover Maine theme was composed and performed by Nick Parker. To support our work: https://www.mainediscoverymuseum.org/donate. Find us online:Maine Discovery MuseumMaine Discovery Museum on social media: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Bluesky Maine Science Festival on social media: Facebook Instagram LinkedInMaine Science Podcast on social media: Facebook Instagram © 2025 Maine Discovery Museum
This Day in Legal History: Petition of RightOn May 8, 1628, the English Parliament formally presented the Petition of Right to King Charles I, marking a key moment in the development of constitutional law and the rule of law in England. This pivotal document emerged in response to growing discontent over the king's use of extrajudicial practices—most notably, the levying of taxes without Parliament's approval and the imprisonment of individuals without cause. Parliament asserted that such actions violated established legal norms rooted in Magna Carta and the common law. The Petition of Right articulated four principal grievances: non-Parliamentary taxation, arbitrary imprisonment, the quartering of soldiers in private homes, and the imposition of martial law during peacetime.Rather than draft new laws, Parliament framed the Petition as a reaffirmation of ancient liberties, underscoring that even the monarch was not above the law. Although Charles initially resisted, political pressure forced him to accept the Petition—though he would later undermine its principles, contributing to the constitutional crises that led to the English Civil War. The Petition became a foundational text in the Anglo-American legal tradition, influencing later legal milestones such as the English Bill of Rights (1689) and the United States Constitution.Its insistence on due process, the separation of powers, and limits on executive authority laid early groundwork for modern democratic governance. In rejecting the idea that the king could rule by prerogative alone, the Petition of Right helped to establish Parliament's role as a co-equal branch of government. The document continues to be cited in legal and political discourse as a seminal assertion of civil liberties. It was a bold challenge to monarchical absolutism at a time when questioning royal authority was fraught with danger. Through its articulation of legal limits on state power, the Petition of Right remains a cornerstone in the long evolution of constitutional democracy.Jenner & Block continues to take on high-profile legal battles against the Trump administration while awaiting a ruling in its own lawsuit challenging one of Trump's executive orders. The firm recently filed a suit in Massachusetts federal court on behalf of universities challenging cost caps imposed by the National Science Foundation on federally funded research. This is one of several legal actions Jenner has brought since Trump's return to the presidency, including lawsuits over restrictions on gender-affirming care and funding cuts to scientific research.Jenner is also seeking to permanently block a Trump executive order that targets the firm due to its ties to Andrew Weissmann, a former partner involved in the Mueller investigation. A judge has already temporarily blocked parts of the order, and other firms like Perkins Coie have secured similar rulings. Critics worry these orders could deter law firms from opposing the administration for fear of retaliation.Jenner is collaborating with former Solicitor General Paul Clement and his firm Clement & Murphy in its newest lawsuit on behalf of major research universities. They've previously teamed up to challenge medical research funding cuts, winning a preliminary court victory. Clement is also representing WilmerHale in its legal fight against Trump. The core argument in these cases is that the administration's actions infringe on constitutional rights, including free speech, due process, and equal protection.Jenner Adds Trump Fights While Fending Off Executive Order (1)The EPA under the second Trump administration is making Superfund site cleanups a central priority, aiming to accelerate remediation efforts across over 1,300 contaminated locations nationwide. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin emphasized a push for expedited timelines and tangible outcomes, positioning Superfund cleanups as visible and community-focused work that garners public support. The administration has highlighted early actions like major soil removals, enforcement efforts that secured nearly $300 million in cleanups, and the removal of four sites from the Superfund National Priorities List.Observers say this mirrors the Trump EPA's first term, which also emphasized efficiency and redevelopment of polluted sites, often encouraging private investment. However, budget constraints remain a challenge. Superfund appropriations have dropped significantly since 1999, and while the 2021 Infrastructure Act provided a temporary funding boost and reinstated taxes on chemical companies, the current administration's 2026 budget proposes a $254 million cut, claiming tax revenue will suffice.Industry groups oppose the chemical tax, while environmental experts warn that funding and staffing shortfalls could stall progress. Critics caution that setting aggressive timelines without sufficient resources could backfire, leading to missed goals and wasted efforts. To improve the program, experts suggest reforms such as more collaboration with local entities and clearer guidance on common cleanup approaches to reduce delays.Trumps' EPA Shifts to Make Superfund Cleanups a Central MissionFormer Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson has retired from the law firm Paul Weiss to take on a leadership role at Columbia University, where he was elected co-chair of the board of trustees. Johnson, who served under President Obama and spent four decades at Paul Weiss, said he will miss his colleagues but is ready for the new challenge. His departure comes amid tensions between both Paul Weiss and Columbia with the Trump administration.Earlier this year, Trump issued an executive order limiting Paul Weiss's access to federal agencies, citing its ties to a prosecutor from the Russia investigation. To resolve the issue, the firm agreed to provide $40 million in pro bono legal services aligned with the administration's goals—a move criticized by some legal professionals for not challenging the order in court. Paul Weiss's chairman defended the agreement as necessary to protect the firm's future.Columbia University has also faced pressure from the Trump administration, which cut $400 million in federal funding over allegations that the school failed to address antisemitism on campus. In response, Columbia has made concessions to regain funding and recently laid off nearly 180 researchers due to financial strain. The university continues to operate without a permanent president following protests over the Israel-Gaza conflict.Johnson, a known critic of Trump's immigration policies and supporter of Kamala Harris in 2024, becomes the second high-profile departure from Paul Weiss following the firm's controversial deal with the administration.Ex-Obama cabinet secretary leaves law firm Paul Weiss for Columbia post | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe
On May 5, 2014 when I discovered 2014 JO25 with the Catalina Sky Survey's 60 inch telescope on Mt. Lemmon, Arizona it was the brightest, fastest asteroid I had ever seen. In April of 2017, 2014 JO25 returned to come within 1.1 million miles of us at 21 mi/s. This rare, very close approach by an asteroid, of 2014 JO25's size allowed scientists at NASA's Goldstone Solar System Radar in California and the National Science Foundation's Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico to obtain radar images of it. Amazingly these images showed that what we had observed as a solitary moving point of light and had assumed to be a single asteroid is actually two asteroids in contact with each other. This tight pair rotates about a common center of gravity about every 5 hours which in turn orbits the Sun in about three years. 41 days before its encounter with Earth, this tight pair was closer to the Sun than the planet Mercury.
Chris Ruddy, founder of Newsmax, discusses the media company's growth, including its IPO success and expansion into various platforms. Newsmax is now the fourth-ranked cable news channel in the U.S. and has a streaming channel, podcasts, and a mobile app. Ruddy criticizes the biased legacy media and highlighted Newsmax's factual reporting. He also discusses Trump's economic strategy, emphasizing tariffs, deregulation, and lower taxes as key elements. Ruddy predicts a significant economic boost if Trump's trade deals and tax cuts are implemented. Victoria Coates, former Deputy National Security Advisor to President Trump, and current leader of foreign policy and security thinking at the Heritage Foundation, discusses the ongoing wildfires in Israel, describing them as a terror tactic by Palestinians. She expresses skepticism about Iran's negotiation sincerity, noting the regime's continued hostility and ongoing missile defense and uranium enrichment activities. Mike Benz, founder of the Foundation for Freedom Online, talks recent wins against censorship. Benz highlights the global rise of censorship and the weaponization of political systems against conservatives and populists. Benz discusses recent U.S. victories, including the dismantling of the Global Engagement Center and the National Science Foundation's cuts to censorship grants. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Today, we are witnessing an unprecedented assault on American science. Thousands of workers have been dismissed from the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. Billions of dollars are being cut from the NIH and NSF. Talented scientists are leaving the field (or leaving the country). Clinical trials and longitudinal studies are ending without explanation. Major research universities are under direct attack, with billions more dollars being withheld for political purposes. Today, I want to do three things: First, I want to review what's happening to American science and why it's so serious. Second, I want to explore how we got here—how the American science system works, and where it came from. And third, I want to discuss what a real reformist agenda for American science would look like. So, for the first time, this is a triple-barreled podcast. First we speak to Holden Thorp, the editor-in-chief of Science and the prestigious Science journals. Second, we talk to Bhaven Sampat, a researcher and historian at Arizona State University, about the history of the NIH. And finally, we talk to Pierre Azoulay, a researcher at MIT, who has spent considerable time and energy studying how American science works and how it could work better. If you have questions, observations, or ideas for future episodes, email us at PlainEnglish@Spotify.com. Host: Derek Thompson Guests: Holden Thorp, Bhaven Sampat and Pierre Azoulay Producer: Devon Baroldi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Carter Razink is a product and technology leader with 8+ years in Web2 and Web3, blending deep technical expertise with entrepreneurial success. As a former co-founder of DropChain and current product lead at Spree, he has driven innovations in tokenomics, protocol design, and blockchain engineering.A National Science Foundation research graduate turned serial entrepreneur, Carter combines vision and proven expertise to shape the future of blockchain with Spree Finance. Simon chats with Carter to learn more about this new and exciting blockchain technology that Spree Finance is aiming to make a big splash in the travel and experience sectors.About Spree FinanceSpree is a next-generation commerce and rewards platform that enables humans and AI agents to seamlessly spend crypto on everyday goods, services, and exclusive experiences starting with travel and experiential verticals. Spree combines payments, loyalty, and financing into one integrated Web2 and Web3 solution. With access to over 2M Web2 merchants and a growing network of curated experiences, Spree makes commerce easy while unlocking savings, rewards, and exclusive "money-can't-buy" opportunities.
Dr. Daniel Gartenberg is a sleep scientist and the founder and CEO of SleepSpace, a company that develops innovative solutions for improving sleep quality and health. He has a PhD in cognitive psychology from George Mason University and more than 15 years of experience in sleep research and technology.Dr. Gartenberg has received over $3.5 million in grant awards from the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of Aging to create a connected smart bedroom system that uses natural remedies like sound, light, and temperature, along with wearable and nearable devices, to diagnose and treat sleep disorders. His current focus is on a solution for detecting and treating insomnia and sleep apnea, to reduce cardiometabolic risk and the risk of Alzheimer's disease. By leveraging recent advances in AI and sensor technology, Dr Gartenberg led the SleepSpace team to develop one of the most accurate sleep detection systems. The company also completed a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) on a new digital treatment for insomnia that works alongside a trained provider.Dr. Gartenberg has >20 peer-reviewed publications and a viral TED Talk with over 5 million views. He has also served as an adjunct professor at Penn State University in the Department of Biobehavioral Health, where he conducted research on sleep and cognition. He is a scientific consultant for a number of sleep related companies including Wesper, MDbiowellness, CPAP.com, Soltec Health, and more. SHOWNOTES:
Why is the center of a raging storm so… calm? Tumble listener Lydia wants to know what's really going on in the eye of a hurricane. To find out, we're flying into the storm — literally — with meteorologist Shirley Murillo! Shirley is a real-life “hurricane hunter” who flies in a specially equipped airplane to collect data from inside the hurricane itself! Discover how hurricanes form, and what keeps the center of the storm calm, and what Shirley learned while flying through Hurricane Katrina, one of the most impactful storms in U.S. history. Buckle up — it's going to be a wild ride! You can find a transcript of the episode and learn more about hurricane hunters on the blog at sciencepodcastforkids.com Send us your science questions to tumblepodcast@gmail.com and leave a review on Apple Podcasts with the help of a grownup! Support the show by becoming a Patreon member for just $1/month! This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant Number # 2415575 - Culturally Situated STEM Podcasts for Kids.
The director of the National Science Foundation announced his departure Thursday after five years at the agency. In a brief public statement, Sethuraman Panchanathan said he was stepping down effective Thursday and called it “an honor and privilege to serve as the Director of NSF.” He also informed employees at NSF in an internal memorandum viewed by FedScoop. “I believe I have done all I can to advance the critical mission of the agency and feel that it is time for me to pass the baton to new leadership,” Panchanathan said in the public statement. Panchanathan assumed the role as NSF director during the first administration of President Donald Trump and carried on under Joe Biden. Under his leadership, the department launched its 27 AI institutes, began its Technology, Innovation, and Partnership Directorate, which has funded regional hubs for innovation across the U.S., and started the National AI Research Resource pilot project. His departure comes soon after the agency began terminating grants that didn't comply with the priorities of the current administration, including items related to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and misinformation and disinformation. A bipartisan pair of House lawmakers are pushing for the reauthorization of the law that launched the Technology Modernization Fund. Reps. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., and Nancy Mace, R-S.C., on Thursday reintroduced the Modernizing Government Technology Act, which largely mimics legislation introduced during the last Congress, just with an updated sunset date of 2032 instead of 2031. The bill revises and adds some additional requirements to the original Modernizing Government Technology Act, which passed in 2017. Connolly said in a press release that the reauthorization bill is a “welcome show of support for the [TMF] and the critical goal that drove its creation — bringing federal IT into the 21st century.” The bill looks to increase the TMF's effectiveness by creating new reporting requirements for the federal chief information officer and agency CIOs, requiring a list of high-risk legacy IT systems that are used, operated or maintained by the agency, according to the bill's text. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.
Last week, the website covid.gov looked very different, containing information on coping with covid and US research. This week it leads you to a White House webpage outlining lab-leak hypothesis – that the pandemic was the result of dodgy lab work at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. The scientific consensus however continues to suggest a zoonotic crossover event. And a preprint recently published by Zach Hensel of the New University of Lisbon and Florence Débarre of the Sorbonne adds new early sequences to the evidence base. As they suggest, it doesn't seal the debate, but it certainly doesn't surprise the scientists.As the Trump administration continues to rattle swords with US science, we speak with Lisa Fazio of Vanderbuilt University who found out abruptly her funding from the National Science Foundation is ending, and Don Ingber, founding director of Harvard University's Wyss Institute about the impacts they are feeling from the federal belt tightening.Finally we learn this week of an eerie species of Hawai'ian caterpillar moth. Not only is it carnivorous, but it ties small pieces of the indigestible remains of insects and bugs found in spider webs to its case, like a gruesome, camouflaged suit of armour. Why? As Dan Rubinoff of Hawai'i describes, it protects it from the hungry host spider, making it appear as the leftovers of yesterday's dinner, or perhaps the shed exoskeleton of the spider itself.Presenter: Roland Pease Producer: Alex Mansfield Production Coordinator: Josie Hardy(Image: The view of Huanan seafood market on February 9, 2021 in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Credit: Getty Images)
As the demand for Career Tech education continues to grow in Ohio, Career Tech programs continue to struggle to attract and retain educators to serve students because of problems with the way most salary schedules are structured. Career Tech educators often have years or decades of prior experience in the private sector - and the expertise they can share with their students is invaluable as a result - but many do not have the advanced degrees that other educators who took a more traditional path to the classroom often do, so Career Tech educators' salaries often don't reflect the value they bring to our schools. The Greene County Career Center Education Association recently bargained a new kind of salary schedule and new contract language to change that, and now they're hoping other local associations will follow their lead.SEE THE GCCCEA COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT AND SALARY SCHEDULE | Greene County Career Center Education Association President Doug Picard is happy to show other local leaders what his association accomplished in its latest negotiations and share his insight about how it could be replicated for other educators across the state. You can reach Doug by email at douglaspicard@gmail.comLISTEN TO OUR PREVIOUS CONVERSATION | Regular Public Education Matters listeners may recognize Doug Picard from a previous episode this season. Doug reached out with the follow up discussed in this episode after an earlier conversation about the Growing Demand for Career Tech in Ohio. Click here to listen to that conversation in Season 5, Episode 17. SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms, including YouTube. Click here for links for other platforms so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.SOCIAL SECURITY FAIRNESS | For too long, the federal Government Pension Offset and Windfall Elimination Provisions of the Social Security Act have unfairly hurt Career Tech educators, who often enter the education profession after private sector careers. At the end of 2024, Sen. Sherrod Brown's Social Security Fairness Act passed in Congress. Click here to read OEA's statement on the landmark legislation.Featured Public Education Matters guests: P.R. Frank, Greene County Career Center Education Association memberAn educator for 31 years, P.R. Frank came to CTE in 2007 after 15 years as a public school educator. He helped to start three successful Dayton schools, has led teacher professional development, and has taught in classrooms ranging from elementary to post-secondary education. Prior to joining a career technical school, P.R. enjoyed developing his own small business as a digital media creator in his spare time. He champions great curriculum design, excellent teaching, and giving students a step up in life pursuits.Doug Picard, Greene County Career Center Education Association President Doug Picard is in his sixth year as a manufacturing and engineering instructor at the Greene County Career Center (GCCC) in Xenia, Ohio. Before joining GCCC, he served 21 years in the U.S. Air Force, where he taught in classrooms, developed avionics test programs, and authored technical policies. At GCCC, his teaching emphasizes human-centered design and adaptive technologies to support underrepresented communities. Picard has also collaborated with the University of Dayton and Central State University as a research mentor for their Global STEM Research Experience for Teachers where he studied engineering in developing areas in Ecuador and India. Over the next three years, he will work with these universities, along with Wright State University, on a National Science Foundation-funded Research Experience for Teachers focused on electronics and semiconductors.Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. The interview for this episode was recorded on April 14, 2025.
Critical Midlife Strategies to Prevent Age-Related Brain Decline: In this episode, Nutritionist Leyla Muedin “Weighs In” with a landmark study published in PNAS, highlighting the importance of a critical midlife window to prevent age-related brain decline. Conducted by scientists from Stony Brook University and other renowned institutions, the study reveals that brain aging follows a non-linear trajectory with key transition points starting as early as age 44. The research identifies neuronal insulin resistance and metabolic changes as primary drivers, suggesting dietary interventions like ketogenic diets during midlife can provide significant benefits. Leyla emphasizes the importance of early metabolic health monitoring and lifestyle changes to mitigate cognitive decline, addressing the growing concern of Alzheimer's and related neurodegenerative diseases.
Sleep is not just a luxury—it's a foundational pillar of health that influences nearly every aspect of our well-being. Sleep deprivation doesn't just cause fatigue; it disrupts hormones, drives inflammation, damages metabolism, and accelerates aging. From the gut microbiome to stress hormones like cortisol, sleep is deeply intertwined with brain, immune, and metabolic health. Yet our modern world—filled with late-night screens, ultra-processed foods, and chronic stress—works against quality rest. In this episode, I discuss, along with Dr. Matt Walker and Shawn Stevenson, why we need to address sleep as a core health priority to unlock healing, prevention of chronic disease, and renewed vitality. Matthew Walker earned his PhD in neuroscience from the Medical Research Council in the UK, and subsequently became a Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. He is currently a Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, and director of the Center for Human Sleep Science. Matt's research focuses on the effect of sleep on human health and disease, brain, and body. He has published more than 100 scientific research studies and has received numerous funding awards from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health. Matt has given a main-stage TED Talk that has been viewed over 13 million times, has also created several TED Miniseries on sleep, a MasterClass series on sleep, and is author of the New York Times bestseller, Why We Sleep. Matt is also the host of the 5-star-rated, The Matt Walker Podcast. Shawn Stevenson is the author of the USA Today National bestseller Eat Smarter, and the international bestselling book Sleep Smarter. He's also the creator of The Model Health Show, featured as the number #1 health podcast in the U.S. with millions of listener downloads each month. A graduate of the University of Missouri–St. Louis, Shawn studied business, biology, and nutritional science and became the cofounder of Advanced Integrative Health Alliance. Shawn has been featured in Forbes, Fast Company, The New York Times, Muscle & Fitness, ABC News, ESPN, and many other major media outlets. This episode is brought to you by BIOptimizers. Head to bioptimizers.com/hyman and use code HYMAN10 to save 10%. Full-length episodes can be found here: How to Optimize Your Sleep with Dr. Matthew Walker How To Stay Asleep And Sleep More Deeply Hack Your Sleep
Was there ever nothing in the universe? What is nothing? That's what listener Aviva wants to know. We turned to particle physicist Dr. Jessica Esquivel to find out! She takes us on a mind-bending journey to ask what existed before the universe began, and how a quantum dance party might have started the Big Bang! This story about subatomic particles, giant magnets, and quantum physics is something that will blow your mind. You can find a transcript of the episode and learn more about the particle party in nothing on the blog at sciencepodcastforkids.com Send us your science questions, ideas and songs to tumblepodcast@gmail.com Support the show by becoming a Patreon member, or making a tax-deductible donation to Tumble Education, a 501c3 organization. This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant Number # 2415575 - Culturally Situated STEM Podcasts for Kids.