Unbiased Science

@unbiasedscipod

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. 16H AGO

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 12/10/2025

    Sweet Child(ren) O Mine: Protecting Our Kids’ Health

    In this episode, Jess and special guest co-host Dr. Elana Pearl Ben-Joseph welcome Dr. Susan Kressly, President of the American Academy of Pediatrics, for an in-depth discussion about the future of pediatric healthcare. The scientists explore the urgent need to redesign healthcare systems to prioritize prevention and wellness rather than reactive treatment. Dr. Kressly shares valuable insights on building trust between pediatricians and parents, addressing the critical challenges facing healthcare delivery today. The conversation examines vaccine confidence issues while emphasizing the importance of human-centered approaches to medical care. Throughout the episode, the experts highlight both the obstacles and opportunities in pediatric healthcare, offering a hopeful vision for creating better health outcomes for children and supporting families more effectively in navigating the complex healthcare landscape. Watch the conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/X8Bil_aW2UA (00:00) Intro (02:15) What Is A News Item That Caught Your Attention And Why? (06:54) Supporting Pediatricians In A Challenging Environment (09:14) How Can Parents Navigate Today's Healthcare System? (13:56) Vaccine Hesitancy Report Findings (16:05) Building Trust In Vaccination And Healthcare (26:22) Hope That Healthcare Is Improving? (29:59) What Is Giving Hope In Public Health? https://aap.org https://healthychildren.org https://www.pewresearch.org/science/2024/11/14/public-trust-in-scientists-and-views-on-their-role-in-policymaking/ https://www.pewresearch.org/science/2025/11/18/how-do-americans-view-childhood-vaccines-vaccine-research-and-policy/ https://www.instagram.com/p/DRNCjgwko6u/ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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

    35 min

  5. 12/03/2025

    Whetting your Hydroxyapatite for Fluoride

    On this episode of the pod, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Ashley Lerman, a pediatric dentist, to explore the contentious topic of fluoride in public health. The scientists examine both the benefits and risks of fluoride use, particularly its critical role in preventing cavities and supporting oral health in children. Dr. Lerman provides expert insights into recent public debates surrounding water fluoridation while discussing hydroxyapatite as an emerging alternative. Throughout the conversation, the experts address important health equity considerations related to dental care access and fluoride availability. The episode emphasizes the importance of evidence-based discussions about fluoride's role in public health while acknowledging the complexities of balancing benefits, risks, and equitable access to preventive dental care. Video available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Zve0E3F-1T0 (00:00) Intro and Public Health Update (04:20) What Is A News Item That Caught Your Attention And Why? (05:43) The F Word. Fluoride In The News (09:06) What Is Fluoride Exactly? (09:56) Does Fluoride Cause A Reduction In IQ?? (13:52) Case Studies In Community Water Fluoridation (17:16) What Is Hydroxyapatite? (19:17) Fluoride vs Hydroxyapatite (23:17) The Impact Of Fluoride On IQ In Children (26:08) Other Fluoride Myths/Concerns (29:23) What Is Fluorosis? (30:46) What Is Giving Hope In Public Health? https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/28/well/utah-fluoride-ban.html https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-acts-protect-children-unapproved-fluoride-drug-products https://www.fda.gov/media/189413/download https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/11/well/fda-fluoride-supplements-kids-doctors.html https://www.kff.org/other-health/water-fluoridation-in-the-u-s-the-federal-role-in-policy-and-practice/ https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/Home/PressRelease/5290 https://yourfirstgrin.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

    34 min

  6. 11/26/2025

    Feed Drop: Nice Genes! - Poo Dunnit

    While we're taking a Thanksgiving holiday break this week, we’re excited to share a special episode of Nice Genes! from our friends at Genome BC.  Our very own Jess joins Dr. Kaylee Byers as they dive into the fascinating world of wastewater surveillance. Along the way, they enlist a seasoned “poo detective,” Dr. Natalie Prystajecky, who wades through some wastewater 101, and how sewage can tip us off to disease outbreaks before symptoms even start. Then, Dr. Yemisi Bokinni brings the investigation to the not-so-small town of Makoko, Nigeria, where a new genome sequencing lab is chasing an old culprit: polio. From your neighborhood sewers to global health and future pandemics, we're using genomics to identify poo dunnit. For more episodes like this one, follow Nice Genes! wherever you listen. Follow on Apple Follow on Spotify Nice Genes! landing page Episode Resources 1. Wastewater Surveillance– BC Centre for Disease Control 2. Wastewater surveillance tells a quiet story of polio’s return– BMJ 3. Nigeria’s polio battleground'– Nature 4. Makoko: ‘Venice of Lagos’– SmartCities Dive Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    34 min

  7. 11/19/2025

    Burnt Toast: When Food Fears Go Up in Smoke with Dr. Joe

    In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Joe Schwarcz, a renowned chemist and science communicator, to explore a range of current scientific topics. The scientists discuss a recent infant formula recall and the FDA's removal of black box warnings from estrogen products, providing context for these regulatory decisions. Dr. Schwarcz addresses the complexities of nutrition research, debunking common misconceptions about superfoods and food additives while emphasizing the importance of understanding food safety. Throughout the conversation, the experts examine the challenges of effective science communication in an era of widespread misinformation. The episode underscores the critical need for improved public science education and clearer communication strategies to help people navigate complex health and safety information in their daily lives. Video available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0kvnw6eE_2I (00:00) Intro and Public Health Update (03:41) What Is A News Item That Caught Your Attention And Why? (Removing Black Box Warning From Estrogen Products) (07:45) The Problem With The Blanket Approach To Ultraprocessed Foods (11:47) Better Not Burn Your Toast - Dr Joe's New Book (15:29) The Importance (And Challenge) Of Science Communication (22:39) Risk Approach Vs. Hazard Approach (26:51) Are SuperFoods Real? (30:45) What Is Giving Hope In Science And Public Health? https://ecwpress.com/products/better-not-burn-your-toast Better Not Burn Your Toast: The Science of Food and Health on Amazon ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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. 11/12/2025

    This Episode Comes With A Surgeon General's Warning

    In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Jerome Adams, former US Surgeon General, to discuss critical public health challenges facing the nation. The scientists explore the complex issues of vaccine hesitancy and health misinformation, examining how declining trust in federal health institutions has shaped public health outcomes. Dr. Adams emphasizes the importance of empathetic approaches when addressing parental vaccine concerns and highlights the vital role of local health authorities in building community trust. The conversation covers practical public health measures like hand hygiene while discussing innovative opportunities to improve health communication through technology and youth engagement. Throughout the episode, the experts offer insights into rebuilding public confidence in health institutions and adapting communication strategies for an evolving information landscape. And after getting some questions since the last episode, Jess and Sarah also make a clarification about hand sanitizer usage at the end of this week's episode. Video available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XiXHdkUsMyg (00:00) Intro and Public Health Update (04:13) What Is A News Item That Caught Your Attention And Why? (07:05) Are Certain Groups More Susceptible To Vaccine Myths? (11:08) What About Parents Who Are Concerned About The Link Between Vaccines And Autism? (14:22) Expanding The Blame? The Evolution Of Health Misinformation (18:55) The Confusion Over Current Vaccine Recommendations (23:17) Where Can Clinicians Go For Keeping Up With The Changes In Guidance? (25:04) Ripple Effect Of Declining Vaccine Confidence (27:11) What Is Giving Hope Right Now In Public Health And Science? (30:32) Clarification On Hand Sanitizer Usage From Last Week's Episode http://stm.sciencemag.org/lookup/doi/10.1126/scitranslmed.aar6115 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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
    199
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2022 Unbiased Science
  • Show Website
    Unbiased Science

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