Lab Coat Optional

Arizona State University

Lab Coat Optional is the show where research is made relatable. Each episode, we dive into the research, the people behind it and why it matters. Tune in for smart, accessible conversations on the latest research from Arizona State University, released every other Wednesday. We are a production of Knowledge Enterprise at ASU. Learn more at research.asu.edu.

Episodes

  1. TRAILER

    Get ready for another season!

    We're back and bigger than ever! Okay, well, we're exactly the same size, But we are definitely back!!! This time around, we’ll take you on a trip... to explore psychedelics as a form of therapy! Into deep space, to understand the evolution of galaxies. We're digging into our growing energy demand, what happens when the rules governing the Colorado River expire and how music shapes our emotions. All this and more coming soon! New episodes every other Wednesday starting Feb. 4. Follow ASU Research: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/asu-knowledge-enterprise Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asuresearch/ Learn more about our work: https://research.asu.edu Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! We are at the mercy of the mighty, fickle algorithms and reviews help new listeners find our show. Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. We’d love to hear from you! As long as you are nice. Be nice.

    1 min
  2. A look inside a billion-dollar research engine with Lara Ferry

    18/12/2025

    A look inside a billion-dollar research engine with Lara Ferry

    From grant strategy and infrastructure to indirect costs, university research relies on a complex, fast-moving system to pursue discoveries and deliver real-world impact. Lara Ferry, vice president of research for ASU Knowledge Enterprise and President’s Professor, joins the show to explain how universities balance basic curiosity-driven work with applied goals, the challenges and opportunities of the current federal funding landscape and more. Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Follow ASU Research: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/asu-knowledge-enterprise Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asuresearch/ Learn more about our work: https://research.asu.edu Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! We are at the mercy of the mighty, fickle algorithms and reviews help new listeners find our show. Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. We’d love to hear from you! As long as you are nice. Be nice. Episode credits Executive produced by Kate Howells Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka Shot by Alexander Chapin and Christian Van Bebber Edited by Alexander Chapin and Quinton Kendall Original music from Patrick Cheung Motion graphics by Andy Ramos Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz Editorial support from Diane Boudreau and Sandy Leander Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson

    43 min
  3. The Jane Austen you didn't meet in English class with Devoney Looser

    16/12/2025

    The Jane Austen you didn't meet in English class with Devoney Looser

    Jane Austen’s enduring legacy is a bit like a lace doily: a frilly decoration that covered over the grime of real life in Regency-era Britain. But it turns out Austen was much less mild and more wild than public perception — or her family — ever let on. In this episode we’re joined by Devoney Looser, Regents Professor of English at Arizona State University and one of the world’s most prominent Austen scholars. Her latest book, Wild for Austen, explores how much sharper, funnier and more rebellious the author really was. Get Wild for Austen: A Rebellious, Subversive, and Untamed Jane, from St. Martin’s Press: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250361332/wildforausten/ Explore Devoney’s other books: https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/285160.Devoney_Looser More from Devoney: Subscribe to her Substack: https://devoney.substack.com/ Visit her online: https://www.devoneylooser.com/ Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Follow ASU Research: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/asu-knowledge-enterprise Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asuresearch/ Learn more about our work: https://research.asu.edu Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! We are at the mercy of the mighty, fickle algorithms and reviews help new listeners find our show. Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. We’d love to hear from you! As long as you are nice. Be nice. Episode credits Executive produced by Kate Howells Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka Shot by Alexander Chapin Edited by Alexander Chapin and Quinton Kendall Original music from Patrick Cheung Motion graphics by Andy Ramos Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz Research and editorial support from Mikala Kass Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson Disclosure: Opinions expressed on this show reflect the views of the individuals only, not the policy or opinion of Arizona State University.

    36 min
  4. AI in the age of information abundance with Joshua Garland

    03/12/2025

    AI in the age of information abundance with Joshua Garland

    “Seeing is believing” doesn’t ring as true as it once did. With the advent of generative artificial intelligence, the line between what’s real and not online has become blurred. This episode we’re examining generative AI’s impact on the information landscape with researcher Joshua Garland. Joshua leads the Center for Information and Narrative Complexity at the Global Security Initiative at Arizona State University. He’s spent over a decade working with large language models, narrative influence and propaganda campaigns, and researches how to better detect and attribute AI-generated content. Learn more about: Center for Information and Narrative Complexity: https://globalsecurity.asu.edu/the-center-on-information-and-narrative-complexity/Global Security Initiative: https://globalsecurity.asu.edu/Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Follow ASU Research: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/asu-knowledge-enterprise Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asuresearch/ Learn more about our work: https://research.asu.edu Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! We are at the mercy of the mighty, fickle algorithms and reviews help new listeners find our show. Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. We’d love to hear from you! As long as you are nice. Be nice. Episode credits Executive produced by Kate Howells Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka Shot by Alexander Chapin Edited by Christian Van Bebber Original music from Patrick Cheung Motion graphics by Andy Ramos Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz Editorial support from Diane Boudreau and Sandy Leander Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson Disclosure: Opinions expressed on this show reflect the views of the individuals only, not the policy or opinion of Arizona State University.

    39 min
  5. Bridging addiction research with practice and policy with Lani Shiota

    19/11/2025

    Bridging addiction research with practice and policy with Lani Shiota

    Addiction and substance use disorder isn’t simply the result of “bad choices” — it’s caused by brain chemistry, relationships and the environments we live in. In this episode, Professor of psychology Lani Shiota delves into what really drives addiction and how to prevent and treat it. From Nancy Reagan’s “Just Say No” campaign to medication-assisted treatment, she shares what science says does and doesn’t work — and why compassion may be our most powerful tool. Shiota also talks about SATRN, ASU’s statewide network connecting researchers, practitioners and policymakers to turn cutting-edge research into real-world impact. Learn more about The Substance Use and Addiction Translational Research Network (SATRN) at ASU: https://satrn.asu.edu/ Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Find more stories of research and discovery at ASU: http://research.asu.edu LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/asu-knowledge-enterprise Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asuresearch/ Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! We are at the mercy of the mighty, fickle algorithms and reviews help new listeners find our show. Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. We’d love to hear from you! As long as you are nice. Be nice. Episode credits Executive produced by Kate Howells Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka Shot by Alexander Chapin and Christian Van Bebber Edited by Alexander Chapin Original music from Patrick Cheung Motion graphics by Andy Ramos Art by Andy Keena Editorial support from Diane Boudreau and Sandy Leander Research and reporting by Richard Harth Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson Keyword research by Aditi Patel Disclosure: Lab Coat Optional is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. This show does not create a doctor-patient relationship, and the information provided is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health. In case of a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Opinions expressed on this show reflect the views of the individuals only, not the policy or opinion of Arizona State University.

    41 min
  6. Tracing China’s narrative influence across Southeast Asia with P.J. Allin

    05/11/2025

    Tracing China’s narrative influence across Southeast Asia with P.J. Allin

    In this episode, we examine how stories and narratives can influence global affairs. P.J. Allin explains how China is using narratives to shift the balance of power in Southeast Asia. P.J. is a research analyst at the Center on Information and Narrative Complexity in the Global Security Initiative and a PhD candidate in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Arizona State University. Follow her work on LinkedIn. Explore her publications: “China’s Columbus” Was an Imperialist Too: Contesting the Myth of Zheng HeChina's Double Zigzag Strategy for International RelationsHow China Conducts Influence Operations by Leveraging Culturally Nuanced Narratives in Three Southeast Asian CountriesLearn more about: What is Sharp Power?China’s claims on the South China Sea: The Nine-Dash-LineThe Philippines Is Ever More Focused on TaiwanThe Uphill Battle to Safeguard RightsPentagon abruptly ends all funding for social science researchLab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at ASU's Knowledge Enterprise. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn, or visit us at research.asu.edu. Episode credits Executive produced by Kate Howells Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka Hosted by Pete Zrioka Shot and edited by Alexander Chapin Original music from Patrick Cheung Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson Keyword research by Aditi Patel Disclosure: Opinions expressed on this show reflect the views of the individuals only, not the policy or opinion of Arizona State University.

    31 min
  7. Water, waste and guts: engineering better health outcomes with Lee Voth-Gaeddert

    22/10/2025

    Water, waste and guts: engineering better health outcomes with Lee Voth-Gaeddert

    How often do you think about where your water comes from? Lee Voth-Gaeddert spends a lot of time doing just that — as well as how clean that water is. In this episode, the engineer from the Biodesign Institute takes us along on his winding research journey ranging from water harvesting in the U.S. Virgin Islands and chicken slaughterhouses in Indonesia to agrarian communities in Guatemala. His work touches on water, microbes, gut health and malnutrition — the hidden systems that keep us all healthy. Read more about Lee’s recent research: 🦠New ASU research hunts down drug-resistant microbes🚰Water insecurity on the rise in American householdsLearn more about the Biodesign Institute and the Center for Health Through Microbiomes at Arizona State University. Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram and LinkedIn, or visit us at research.asu.edu. Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! We are at the mercy of the mighty, fickle algorithms and reviews help new listeners find our show. Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. We’d love to hear from you! As long as you are nice. Be nice. Episode credits Executive produced by Kate Howells Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka Shot by Christian Van Bebber and Alexander Chapin Edited by Christian Van Bebber Original music from Patrick Cheung Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz Research and reporting by Richard Harth Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson Keyword research by Aditi Patel Disclosure: Lab Coat Optional is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. This show does not create a doctor-patient relationship, and the information provided is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health. In case of a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Opinions expressed on this show reflect the views of the individuals only, not the policy or opinion of Arizona State University.

    34 min
  8. Lessons from the Amazon: the secrets of healthy aging, with Ben Trumble

    08/10/2025

    Lessons from the Amazon: the secrets of healthy aging, with Ben Trumble

    In the lowlands of Bolivia, there is a hunter-gatherer population living among the headwaters of the Amazon. Despite infrequent access to medical care and constant exposure to parasites and pathogens, the Tsimane people have some of the lowest instances of heart disease and Alzheimer’s in the world. Listen as human biologist Ben Trumble talks about his quest to learn what we can from the Tsimane about healthy aging before industrialization — before it’s too late. Research disclaimer: Research involving the Tsimane is ethically approved by the researchers universities, the Universidad Mayor San Simon in Bolivia, and the Tsimane and Moseten governments. Each community, community leaders, and study participants approved all research protocols, and all participants provided informed consent in their native language. The study helps provide medical care and connection with Bolivian social support services, including for individuals who don’t participate in research. During a study, when incidental health findings arise, participants are advised and supported to receive medical treatment. This study is also partnered with the One Pencil Project, a 501(c)(3) non-profit that provides scholarships and school supplies to Tsimane children. Learn more about: School of Human Evolution and Social Change in the College of Liberal Arts and SciencesThe Institute of Human OriginsTsimane Health and Life History ProjectThe Trumble LabNew research focused on the TsimaneLab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram and LinkedIn, or visit us at research.asu.edu. Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! We are at the mercy of the mighty, fickle algorithms and reviews help new listeners find our show. Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. We’d love to hear from you! As long as you are nice. Be nice. Episode credits Executive produced by Kate Howells Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka Shot by Alexander Chapin Edited by Quinton Kendall and Alexander Chapin Original music by Patrick Cheung Motion graphics by Andy Ramos Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson Keyword research by Aditi Patel Intro music "Mission Cool" by Christopher Baron Disclaimer: Opinions expressed on this show reflect the views of the individuals only, not the policy or opinion of Arizona State University.

    34 min
  9. Everyday exposures, lasting effects: how diet and environment may shape dementia, with Ramon Velazquez

    24/09/2025

    Everyday exposures, lasting effects: how diet and environment may shape dementia, with Ramon Velazquez

    This episode we’re diving into the science of memory, aging, and what might be quietly shaping the health of aging minds. Guest Ramon Velazquez explains what happens in the brain during Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia — and more importantly, what might trigger them in the first place. From essential nutrients to common weedkillers, his research is uncovering how everyday exposures can influence lifelong brain health. Read more about Ramon’s research on: 🧠Low choline levels and Alzheimer's disease🌱Lasting effects of glyphosate on the brainLearn more about the Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University, the ASU-Banner Neurodegenerative Disease Research Center and Ramon’s lab. Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram and LinkedIn, or visit us at research.asu.edu. Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! We are at the mercy of the mighty, fickle algorithms and reviews help new listeners find our show. Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. We’d love to hear from you! As long as you are nice. Be nice. Episode credits Executive produced by Kate Howells Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka Shot by Alexander Chapin and Christian Van Bebber Edited by Quinton Kendall Original music from Patrick Cheung Motion graphics by Andy Ramos Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz Research and reporting by Richard Harth Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson Keyword research by Aditi Patel Disclaimer: Lab Coat Optional is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. This show does not create a doctor-patient relationship, and the information provided is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health. In case of a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Arizona State University is committed to the ethical and humane treatment of animals in advancing research that benefits humans, animals and the environment. Learn more about ASU’s Animal Care and Use Program.

    35 min
  10. Keeping people safe and cool in the hottest city in the U.S., with Patricia Solís and Dr. Nick Staab

    10/09/2025

    Keeping people safe and cool in the hottest city in the U.S., with Patricia Solís and Dr. Nick Staab

    Amidst ever-increasing temperatures, how can we keep people safe from heat-related illness and death? Listen as two experts from Maricopa County — home to the sweltering city of Phoenix — share how they work and collaborate to ensure everyone has a fighting chance when extreme heat strikes. This episode features Patricia Solís, executive director at the Knowledge Exchange for Resilience at Arizona State University and Dr. Nick Staab, chief medical officer at Maricopa County Department of Public Health. Learn more about the Knowledge Exchange for Resilience and their mission to tackle interconnected problems with use-inspired research that builds community resilience. The Knowledge Exchange for Resilience is a unit of the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory® at ASU. Learn more about: Maricopa County’s heat reportsThe Heat Relief Network211 ArizonaLab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram and LinkedIn, or visit us at research.asu.edu. Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! We are at the mercy of the mighty, fickle algorithms and reviews help new listeners find our show. Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. We’d love to hear from you! As long as you are nice. Be nice. Episode credits Executive produced by Kate Howells Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka Shot and edited by Alexander Chapin Original music by Patrick Cheung Motion graphics by Andy Ramos Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson Keyword research by Aditi Patel Special thanks to Courtney Kreuzwiesner and Sonia Singh Disclaimer Lab Coat Optional is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. This show does not create a doctor-patient relationship, and the information provided is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health. In case of a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Opinions expressed on this show reflect the views of the individuals only, not the policy or opinion of Arizona State University.

    36 min
  11. What evolution can teach us about outsmarting cancer, with Carlo Maley

    27/08/2025

    What evolution can teach us about outsmarting cancer, with Carlo Maley

    Listen as guest Carlo Maley tells us about what biology and evolution can teach us about cancer suppression and all the interesting ways creatures big and small have evolved to combat cancer. Read more about Carlo’s research on: 🧽 Sponges’ extreme radiation resistance🐘 Cancer across the animal kingdom🐉 Using evolution for fantasy world buildingLearn more about the Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University and Carlo’s Arizona Cancer Evolution Center. Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram and LinkedIn, or visit us at research.asu.edu. Like the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. We’d love to hear from you! As long as you are nice. Be nice. Episode credits Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka Executive produced by Kate Howells Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka Shot by Alexander Chapin and Christian Van Bebber, edited by Alexander Chapin Original music from Patrick Cheung Motion graphics by Andy Ramos Art by Andy Keena Editorial support from Diane Boudreau and Sandy Leander Research and reporting by Richard Harth Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson Keyword research by Aditi Patel Disclaimer: Lab Coat Optional is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. This show does not create a doctor-patient relationship, and the information provided is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health. In case of a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Arizona State University is committed to the ethical and humane treatment of animals in advancing research that benefits humans, animals and the environment. Learn more about ASU’s Animal Care and Use Program.

    34 min

Trailer

About

Lab Coat Optional is the show where research is made relatable. Each episode, we dive into the research, the people behind it and why it matters. Tune in for smart, accessible conversations on the latest research from Arizona State University, released every other Wednesday. We are a production of Knowledge Enterprise at ASU. Learn more at research.asu.edu.

Information

  • Creator
    Arizona State University
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Arizona State University
  • Show Website
    Lab Coat Optional