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.

  1. The surveillance network you consented to with Rakibul Hasan

    2D AGO

    The surveillance network you consented to with Rakibul Hasan

    We trade data for convenience every day. But at what cost? Rakibul Hasan breaks down how everyday tech became a surveillance network that determines what we see, what we pay — and maybe even what we think. Resources Try Brave or Duck Duck Go as a browserTry the Start Page search engineFurther reading and watching: Privacy Is Power by Carissa VelizLOST GENERATIONThe Social Dilemma from NetflixLearn more about the School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence in the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering 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, LinkedIn and Bluesky or visit us at research.asu.edu. Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! Get in touch with us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. Special thanks to our No. 1 fan Meg Hebing for her cameo 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 Editorial support from Diane Boudreau 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.

    35 min
  2. Coding the cosmos with Skylar Grayson

    APR 15

    Coding the cosmos with Skylar Grayson

    Astrophysicist Skylar Grayson explains how she uses supercomputer simulations to study black holes, how scientists can piece together a picture of phenomena billions of light years away and why communicating science clearly matters just as much as discovering it. Find Skylar on: YouTubeTiktokInstagramFurther reading: Read The End of Everything by Katie Mack Check out Starts with a Bang by Ethan SiegalLearn more about the School of Earth and Space Exploration 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, LinkedIn and Bluesky or visit us at research.asu.edu. Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! Support our friends! Check out AskABiologist wherever you get your podcasts! Special thanks to Kaden Ryback for suggesting this episode! Do you have an idea for an episode, or just want to torture the host with facts about dark matter? Get in touch at ke.podcast@asu.edu! 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 Editorial support from Diane Boudreau Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson

    42 min
  3. Tackling plastic pollution from coast to coast with Charlie Rolsky

    MAR 31

    Tackling plastic pollution from coast to coast with Charlie Rolsky

    Plastic is everywhere. The same material that makes modern life easier has also become a persistent environmental pollutant. Charlie Rolsky — ASU alumnus and executive director of the Shaw Institute in Blue Hill, Maine — explores how microplastics move through our environment and into our bodies, what we do and don’t know about their impacts, and why “biodegradable” often doesn’t mean what we think. He also reflects on his journey from ASU to Maine — and how scientists balance urgency with responsible communication. Learn more about The Shaw Institute (and their free touch tank!)Dirigo Sea Farm Further listening Listen to Science Vs!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, LinkedIn and Bluesky or visit us at research.asu.edu. Please give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! It helps other listeners find us. Got an idea for us? Get in touch at ke.podcast@asu.edu. 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 Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson 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.

    37 min
  4. Staying human in the age of AI with Andrew Maynard

    MAR 18

    Staying human in the age of AI with Andrew Maynard

    As AI and emerging technologies reshape daily life, Andrew Maynard — scientist, author and professor in the Rob Walton College of Global Futures — discusses how we navigate disruptive innovation responsibly — and how we can hold onto our humanity in a rapidly changing world. Further reading: Andrew’s SubstackAI and the Art of Being HumanFuture RisingListen to Andrew’s show, Modem Futura wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about Andrew’s Future of Being Human Initiative, and the Rob Walton College of Global Futures, part of the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at ASU. 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, LinkedIn and Bluesky or visit us at research.asu.edu. Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! Get in touch with us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. 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 from Patrick Cheung Motion graphics by Andy Ramos Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz Editorial support from Diane Boudreau Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson

    48 min
  5. The future of medical research with NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya [BONUS]

    MAR 6 ·  BONUS

    The future of medical research with NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya [BONUS]

    Director of the National Institutes of Health Dr. Jay Bhattacharya joins the show to discuss his priorities for the agency, building trust with Tribal communities, his advice to young researchers — and some of his favorite board games. Jay's board game recs: AzulCastles of BurgundyAnything by Vital Lacerda!Specifically: On Mars or VinhosLab 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, LinkedIn and Bluesky or visit us at research.asu.edu. Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! Get in touch with us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. 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 from Patrick Cheung Motion graphics by Andy Ramos Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson

    44 min
  6. Our rising energy demand, explained, with Kelly Barr and Gary Dirks

    MAR 4

    Our rising energy demand, explained, with Kelly Barr and Gary Dirks

    Energy demand is surging. To understand what’s driving it and how we’re going to meet it, I’m joined by energy veterans Kelly Barr and Gary Dirks from the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory. They explain the complicated nature of energy planning, why nuclear energy is getting another look and why when it comes to navigating our energy future — reliability is king. Further reading: Analysis from the International Energy AgencyReports from the U.S. Energy Information AdministrationRMI research and analysisEPRICalifornia Burning by Katherine BluntLearn more about Energy Forward, a unit of the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory 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, LinkedIn and Bluesky or visit us at research.asu.edu. Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! Get in touch with us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. Episode credits Executive produced by Kate Howells Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka Hosted by Pete Zrioka Shot by Alexander Chapin Edited by Alexander Chapin Original music from Patrick Cheung Motion graphics by Andy Ramos Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz Social media by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson Clips The growing environmental impact of AI data centers’ energy demands — PBS News Hour How AI is driving a sharp rise in electricity bills — PBS News Hour NBC 5 Responds: Soaring energy bills — NBC 5 Chicago POWER CRISIS: Electricity demand SURGES as AI takes over — Fox Business Inside the numbers: How data centers are increasing energy use — ABC15 Arizona

    46 min
  7. The hidden side of national security — and not stealth planes! with Nadya Bliss

    FEB 18

    The hidden side of national security — and not stealth planes! with Nadya Bliss

    Nadya Bliss — executive director of the Advanced Capabilities for National Security Institute — explains how national security is more than tanks and battleships. She breaks down the vital role university research plays behind the scenes to anticipate emerging needs, strengthen infrastructure, accelerate innovation and quietly prevent conflict. Further reading: Listen to Sources & Methods, NPR’s nat sec podcastCheck out Phantom Orbit: A Thriller, by David IgnatiusLearn more about the Advanced Capabilities for National Security Institute 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, LinkedIn and Bluesky or visit us at research.asu.edu. Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! Get in touch with us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. 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 Original music from Patrick Cheung Motion graphics by Andy Ramos Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz Editorial support from Diane Boudreau 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.

    43 min
  8. ASU-Science Prize winners talk transforming messy datasets into solutions [BONUS]

    FEB 17 ·  BONUS

    ASU-Science Prize winners talk transforming messy datasets into solutions [BONUS]

    Bonus episode! Guest host Dr. Lara Ferry, vice president for research at ASU Knowledge Enterprise, talks with Meha Jain, of the University of Michigan and Mayank Kejriwal, of the University of Southern California, the inaugural winners of the ASU-Science Prize for Transformational Impact, presented by ASU and Science. Further reading: Environmentality by Arun AgrawalDevelopment as Freedom by Amartya SenTaking Down Backpage by Maggy KrellScience as a Vocation by Max WeberThe Information by James GleickLearn more about AAAS and follow on LinkedIn, Instagram and Bluesky. Consider becoming a member, too! Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at ASU’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research at ASU on Instagram, LinkedIn and Bluesky or visit us at research.asu.edu. Get in touch with us at ke.podcast@asu.edu. Episode credits Executive produced by Kate Howells Produced by Alexander Chapin, Pete Zrioka and Carrie Herrera Niesen Hosted by Lara Ferry Shot by Alexander Chapin Edited by Quinton Kendall and Alexander Chapin Original music from Patrick Cheung Motion graphics by Andy Ramos Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz Social media by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson Special thanks to Sally C. Morton

    29 min
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Trailer

4.5
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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
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Arizona State University
  • Show Website
    Lab Coat Optional

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