Unbiased Science

@unbiasedscipod
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Dr. Jessica Steier, a public-health expert, and Dr. Sarah Scheinman, a neurobiologist, are the hosts of Unbiased Science, a podcast devoted to objective, critical appraisal of available evidence on health-related topics relevant to listeners’ daily lives. Follow them on Instagram at www.instagram.com/unbiasedscipod

  1. 11H AGO

    Kid Tested, FDA Approved: The Science of Pediatric Clinical Trials

    In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Neil Goldenberg to explore the unique challenges and complexities of conducting pediatric clinical trials. The scientists examine the necessity of multi-center studies, ethical considerations specific to research involving children, and the critical physiological differences between pediatric and adult populations that require distinct research approaches. Dr. Goldenberg shares valuable insights from his research experiences, including the KidsDOTT and COVAC-TP trials, while discussing the essential roles of funding and infrastructure in advancing pediatric research. Throughout the conversation, the experts emphasize the importance of collaboration and advocacy in this field. The episode concludes with an optimistic perspective on the future of pediatric clinical research and its potential to improve health outcomes for children. Watch the conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yqS4b3kqHHM (00:00) Intro & Public Health Update (05:33) What's A Health/Science News Item That Caught Your Attention? (07:34) What Is A Multi-Center Study? (09:35) What Protections Are There For Human Subject Clinical Trials? (13:04) Why Is There A Need For Separate Trials For Children Vs Adults? (17:42) Examples of Dr. Goldenberg's Trials (24:50) What Does It Mean If Pediatric Trials Don't Get Funded? (29:13) Is There Anything We Can Do To Support Pediatric Clinical Trials? (31:51) What's Giving You Hope In Public Health And Science Right Now? https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/all-childrens-hospital/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-goldenberg-md-phd-59226b63 Disclaimer from Dr. Goldenberg: "The opinions I share during this conversation are my own and do not necessarily reflect the official positions or policies of my employer." ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interested in advertising with us? Please reach out to advertising@airwavemedia.com, with “Unbiased Science” in the subject line. PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. The information provided herein do not represent the views of our employers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    36 min

  2. FEB 11

    Liar, Liar, Gut on Fire: Wellness’s Obsession with Inflammation

    In this episode, Jess welcomes Dr. Liz Marnik and Dr. Irini Hadjisavva to explore the multifaceted nature of inflammation and its impact on health. The scientists distinguish between beneficial and harmful inflammatory responses while addressing the challenges of accurately measuring inflammation in clinical settings. They examine common misconceptions surrounding gut health, including the pitfalls of direct-to-consumer microbiome tests and the myth of leaky gut syndrome. The conversation also addresses dietary approaches to supporting gut health and discusses the concerning rise in colorectal cancer rates among younger adults. Throughout the episode, the experts emphasize evidence-based approaches to understanding inflammation while concluding with an encouraging message about the importance of community support in navigating complex health challenges. Watch the conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kSFesWsw-NU (00:00) Intro & Public Health Update (05:33) What's A Health/Science News Item That Caught Your Attention? (07:25) What Is Inflammation Actually? (10:26) Is Inflammation Something We Can Measure? (14:16) Are Microbiome Tests Accurate? (16:56) Are There Dietary Approaches To Support Gut Health? (21:30) Inflammation And Autoimmune Diseases (24:18) Is Leaky Gut Real? (29:12) The Rise In Colorectal Cancer (33:14) What's Giving You Hope In Public Health And Science Right Now? https://www.instagram.com/sciencewhizliz/ https://www.instagram.com/thosenerdygirls https://www.instagram.com/dririnih/ https://fromthescienceclass.substack.com/ https://thosenerdygirls.substack.com/ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interested in advertising with us? Please reach out to advertising@airwavemedia.com, with “Unbiased Science” in the subject line. PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. The information provided herein do not represent the views of our employers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    37 min

  3. FEB 4

    No Representation, No Generalization: Health Equity in Research

    In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Kate Wallis and Dr. Diana Montoya-Williams to explore the essential topic of health equity in scientific research. The scientists examine the critical importance of rigorous research design and the transformative role of community engagement in conducting meaningful health studies. They address common methodological mistakes that compromise research validity, particularly focusing on how race and ethnicity are contextualized in scientific studies. Throughout the conversation, there is an emphasis on the need for greater transparency in research practices and how community involvement strengthens both the quality and relevance of scientific work. Despite acknowledging significant challenges in achieving health equity, the episode concludes on a hopeful note by highlighting the power of community solidarity and engagement in advancing public health outcomes. Watch the conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/p726HlABGRI (00:00) Intro & Public Health Update (04:22) What's A Health/Science News Item That Caught Your Attention? (06:43) A Collaborative Project About How Science Has Failed Certain Communities (12:04) Common Mistakes In Research Validity (16:24) Understanding Race & Ethnicity In Research (21:25) What Does True Community Engagement Look Like? (30:07) What's Giving You Hope In Public Health And Science Right Now? https://www.inquirer.com/health/expert-opinions/autism-treatments-myths-fda-cdc-changes-20251204.html https://publications.aap.org/pediatricsopenscience/article/2/1/1/205504/Consensus-Recommendations-for-Antiracist-Child?searchresult=1 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interested in advertising with us? Please reach out to advertising@airwavemedia.com, with “Unbiased Science” in the subject line. PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. The information provided herein do not represent the views of our employers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    34 min

  4. JAN 28

    The Emergency Room Gives Us A Pitt

    In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Michael Falk, a pediatric emergency medicine physician, to address critical public health and pediatric care topics. The scientists examine the concerning rise in measles cases while exploring common parental concerns about fever and febrile seizures in children. Dr. Falk shares valuable insights from his emergency room experience, providing practical guidance on when families should seek medical attention for their children. Throughout the conversation, the experts emphasize the vital role of vaccination in preventing serious childhood illnesses and discuss the importance of informed consent in medical decision-making. The episode concludes with an optimistic perspective on public health advocacy, offering listeners both practical pediatric health knowledge and encouragement about the future of community health efforts.Watch the conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lwhh9e-BTPs(00:00) Intro & Public Health Update(04:59) What's A Health/Science News Item That Caught Your Attention?(07:27) Understanding Fever And What It Means(12:40) What Might Be Causing Your Fever?(15:33) Febrile Seizures(22:53) Should We Treat A Fever Or Let It Ride?(25:36) What Symptoms In Kids Should We Go Straight To The ER For?(27:08) What Might Parents Want To Steer Clear Of For Their Kids?(31:02) Is There A New Flu Strain This Season?(33:50) What's Giving You Hope In Public Health And Science Right Now? -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Interested in advertising with us? Please reach out to advertising@airwavemedia.com, with “Unbiased Science” in the subject line.PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional.Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. The information provided herein do not represent the views of our employers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    38 min

  5. JAN 21

    The Danish [Vaccine] Model (Assembly Required)

    In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Jennifer Reich, a sociologist and researcher at the University of Colorado Denver, to examine vaccine hesitancy and recent changes to the U.S. vaccine schedule. The scientists explore the cultural and structural factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy, including American society's emphasis on personal responsibility and the intense pressure parents face in making health decisions for their children. Dr. Reich provides critical insights into the lack of transparency in recent policy changes and discusses why direct comparisons between U.S. vaccine policies and those of countries like Denmark oversimplify complex healthcare system differences. The conversation addresses unique American challenges including healthcare access disparities and diverse population needs. Despite examining serious obstacles, the episode concludes optimistically as Dr. Reich discusses opportunities for building coalitions and fostering community support to improve public health outcomes, emphasizing the shared desire for healthy children and thriving communities. Watch the conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0QAtjUlxz_s (00:00) Intro & Public Health Update (08:58) 'Personal Choice' On Vaccines (12:00) Comparing US vs Denmark on Vaccines (17:15) The Effect Of Cultural Differences (21:41) Where Does Vaccine Hesitancy Come From? (26:00) What Is Driving The New Appeal To "Natural Is Better"? (30:30) What Is Something In The Science/Health World Giving You Hope Right Now? Calling The Shots: Why Parents Reject Vaccines on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4qSCFQC https://nyupress.org/9781479812790/calling-the-shots/ https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/30/opinion/vaccine-hesitancy.html @jenniferreich on Bluesky https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferreichphd/ @Jenniferreichphd on threads ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interested in advertising with us? Please reach out to advertising@airwavemedia.com, with “Unbiased Science” in the subject line. PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. The information provided herein do not represent the views of our employers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    38 min

  6. JAN 14

    Lucky Eggs: Why Infertility Problems Are Not Game Ova

    In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Lucky Sekhon, a reproductive endocrinologist, to explore the complex landscape of fertility and reproductive health. The scientists examine recent advancements in IVF technology while addressing the importance of understanding both male and female fertility factors. Dr. Sekhon debunks common fertility myths and discusses how lifestyle choices and mental health significantly impact reproductive outcomes. Throughout the conversation, the experts emphasize the critical need for improved communication and education around fertility issues, particularly for women navigating these challenges. The episode concludes with an optimistic perspective on the future of women's health, offering listeners valuable insights into modern fertility science and the expanding options available for those on their reproductive journey. Watch the conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vxjOHqMwg3U (00:00) Intro & Holiday Update (05:07) Intro to Dr. Lucky Sekhon (07:21) A Headline That's Caught Dr. Lucky's Attention (15:59) Thoughts On Fertility Being Just A Woman's Problem (19:11) Does Age Affect Sperm Quality? (22:31) Is 'Geriatric Pregnancy' A Real Thing? (26:10) How Do You Respond To Infertility Shaming? (33:12) What Is Something In The Science/Health World Giving You Hope Right Now? The Lucky Egg Book ordering link: https://linkly.link/2TYtU The Lucky Egg on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4szHMH9 https://www.instagram.com/lucky.sekhon/ @lucky.sekhon https://www.tiktok.com/@drluckyegg @drluckyegg http://www.theluckyegg.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interested in advertising with us? Please reach out to advertising@airwavemedia.com, with “Unbiased Science” in the subject line. PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. The information provided herein do not represent the views of our employers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    40 min

  7. JAN 7

    99 Ways to (Not) Die: An ER Doc's Guide to Stayin' Alive

    In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Ashely Alker, an emergency medicine physician and author of '99 Ways to Die,' to discuss critical public health challenges. The scientists explore the intersection of vaccination, misinformation, and preventable deaths, drawing on Dr. Alker's clinical experiences and research. They examine the powerful role of storytelling in medical communication and how narrative can help convey complex health information effectively. Throughout the conversation, the experts address the dangers posed by health misinformation and emphasize the importance of public awareness in preventing avoidable deaths. The episode offers listeners valuable insights into emergency medicine perspectives on public health while highlighting strategies for improving health communication and combating misinformation. Watch the conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Gq6hDxSlYts (00:00) Intro & Public Health Update (05:52) What Is A News Item That Caught Your Attention And Why? (08:04) 99 Ways To Die (10:37) How Did You Decide Which Cases Made The Book? (13:20) What Was Your Most Bizarre Or Shocking Case? (15:02) The Risks Of Butt Stuff (16:43) What Is The Most Misunderstood Medical Emergency? (20:02) Can This Book Save A Life? (23:17) Underestimated and Overestimated Dangers In Everyday Life (26:18) Correcting Medical Misconceptions In Media (29:40) What's the harm of medical myths and entertainment and social media? (31:43) What Is Giving Hope In Public Health? 99 Ways To Die: And How To Avoid Them on Amazon: https://amzn.to/493Hd0A Find Dr. Alker on: Substack https://aalkermd.substack.com/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashely-alker-b9b32869/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/people/Ashely-Alker-MD/100039489626191/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@aalkermd Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/aalkermd.bsky.social Instagram https://www.instagram.com/aalkermd/?hl=en X https://x.com/aalkermd ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interested in advertising with us? Please reach out to advertising@airwavemedia.com, with “Unbiased Science” in the subject line. PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. The information provided herein do not represent the views of our employers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    37 min

  8. 12/17/2025

    What the Cluck Is Going On with Bird Flu?

    In this episode, Jess and Sarah discuss the current state of bird flu, particularly H5N1, with expert Dr. Chad Costley. They explore the implications of recent CDC updates, the evolution of viruses, and the innovative development of intranasal vaccines. The conversation highlights the importance of addressing vaccine misinformation and the potential for a universal flu vaccine, emphasizing the need for continued public health efforts and the role of dedicated scientists in combating misinformation. Watch the conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-Vlb14O_BeA (00:00) Intro & Public Health Update (03:07) What Is A News Item That Caught Your Attention And Why? (04:20) What Is Bird Flu? (07:11) How Could Bird Flu Become A Worst Case Scenario? (10:02) Exiting Research On A Possible Bird Flu Vaccine (13:38) Technology Behind The New Vaccine Candidate (17:43) Importance of Adjuvants (20:48) Where Does The New H5 Vaccine Stand In Development? (24:21) The Idea Of A Universal Flu Vaccine (29:25) What Is Giving Hope In Public Health? https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-64686-3 https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/11/06/3182263/0/en/BlueWillow-Biologics-Intranasal-Bird-Flu-Vaccine-Shows-Signs-of-Broad-Immune-Response-in-Phase-I-Clinical-Trial-Published-in-Nature-Communications.html https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-costley-a631a8164/ https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/avian-influenza-bird-flu/preliminary-human-bird-flu-case-reported-washington-state ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interested in advertising with us? Please reach out to advertising@airwavemedia.com, with “Unbiased Science” in the subject line. PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. The information provided herein do not represent the views of our employers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    36 min
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About

Dr. Jessica Steier, a public-health expert, and Dr. Sarah Scheinman, a neurobiologist, are the hosts of Unbiased Science, a podcast devoted to objective, critical appraisal of available evidence on health-related topics relevant to listeners’ daily lives. Follow them on Instagram at www.instagram.com/unbiasedscipod

Information

  • Creator
    @unbiasedscipod
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    204
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2022 Unbiased Science
  • Show Website
    Unbiased Science

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