Dr Karl Podcast

Dr Karl Podcast

Join Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, Lucy Smith and their scientific guests, with a bunch of curious triple j listeners for a weekly injection of science, myth-bashing and answers!
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Episode's summary

Do fish have feelings? Does Shark Tale stack up scientifically? And how can you get involved in marine science? Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith. Got a question for Dr Karl - submit it here https://ab.co/askKarl

Episodes

1240-

Coral bleaching, bioluminescence and intelligent fish

Do fish have feelings? Does Shark Tale stack up scientifically? And how can you get involved in marine science? Dr Karl answers these questions and more on triple j Mornings with Lucy Smith. Got a question for Dr Karl - submit it here https://ab.co/askKarl

15 Oct 2026
1239-

Dyslexia, El Niño and itchy ears

In this episode of Science Hour, Dr. Carl and Dr. Tanya Bunter discuss recent Nobel Prize discoveries regarding brain stimulation and neutrinos, while addressing listener questions on topics ranging from the physics of how cats land on their feet to why crying causes itchy ears. The discussion explores the complexities of serotonin production, the evolutionary origins of language, and the mechanics of weather patterns like El Niño. The episode also delves into various scientific curiosities, including the ability to smell diseases, the neurodevelopmental nature of dyslexia, and the science behind dancing rhythms. The doctors conclude by investigating the physiological sensation of frisson and the chemical mystery of why saliva can effectively remove bloodstains from fabric.

08 Oct 2026
1238-

Glowing planets, shrinking brains and living till you're 150

In this episode of The Science Hour, Dr. Karl corrects previous mistakes regarding food reheating safety and breath-holding risks while exploring the mechanics of daydreaming, bone fractures, hair color changes, and sweat gland function. Dr. Carl and Dr. Tanya further discuss topics ranging from longevity and genetics to the physics of sunsets and space observation. The episode also covers mosquito navigation, the biological effects of sleep deprivation on creativity, brain aging, and the recent discovery of a decagon pattern on Saturn.

01 Oct 2026
1237-

The full moon, earworms and tickling

In this episode of Science with Dr. Carl, the hosts explore a wide range of scientific inquiries, beginning with a near-death shark encounter and moving into the mechanics of thermal imaging and how beverage containers affect taste. The discussion also covers the physical processes behind joint cracking and B12 injections. Dr. Carl further addresses listener questions regarding physiological phenomena such as sneezing in hot cars, why we cannot tickle ourselves, and the science of 'earworms.' The episode concludes with essential information on hydration, electrolytes, food safety when reheating meat, and the biological triggers behind breath-holding underwater.

24 Sep 2026
1236-

Fingerprints, wombat poo, earthquakes

Why is wombat poo shaped like a cube? Does breakfast actually kickstart your metabolism? How much does your DNA determine your intelligence? Dr Karl answers your science questions on triple j mornings with Lucy Smith.

23 Sep 2021