343 episodes

Learn how to think like EINSTEIN! Every week we learn science running imaginative thought experiments. Our brilliant guests are some of the world’s greatest science fiction writers, scientists & science communicators. Leap into a journey to answer the most fascinating question in the universe: What The IF?

What The If‪?‬ Philip Shane, Matt Stanley, Gabrielle Paniccia

    • Science
    • 4.6 • 60 Ratings

Learn how to think like EINSTEIN! Every week we learn science running imaginative thought experiments. Our brilliant guests are some of the world’s greatest science fiction writers, scientists & science communicators. Leap into a journey to answer the most fascinating question in the universe: What The IF?

    MUSIC In SPACE - With Chris Carberry of EXPLORE MARS!

    MUSIC In SPACE - With Chris Carberry of EXPLORE MARS!

    Our special guest Chris Carberry of EXPLORE MARS, author of the new book THE MUSIC OF SPACE joins us! We imagine a civilization on a distant, cloud-covered planet called Seattle Nine. Their only glimpse into the universe beyond comes from intercepting old Earth movies and TV shows, which they believe to be real documentaries about space. As they piece together the evolution of space travel through the music in these films, a fascinating picture emerges. From the Wagnerian scores of early sci-fi to the brassy themes of Star Wars, they conclude that each alien species has its own musical soundtrack, that space itself changes sound over time, and that music may even be the key to communicating with extraterrestrial life. Join us on a humorous journey into the music of space exploration, as seen through the eyes of our fictional cosmic neighbors.

    Learn more about Chris’ book, THE MUSIC OF SPACE on Amazon

    https://a.co/d/31F8gEP

    Barnes & Noble

    https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-music-of-space-chris-carberry/1143391721

    and wherever you get your books!

    Learn more about EXPLORE MARS’ incredible annual conference, The HUMANS TO MARS SUMMIT at https://www.ExploreMars.org. Sign up now for the upcoming event, May 7-8, 2024 in Washington D.C.

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    Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story!

    Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

    The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

    • 47 min
    ANCIENT Libraries!

    ANCIENT Libraries!

    Intriguing documents lost to history could be recovered with futuristic technology, offering insights into ancient civilizations and solving long-standing historical mysteries. From the burnt scrolls of Herculaneum and missing books of the Iliad, to the construction plans of the Egyptian pyramids and the mechanical wonders of the Antikythera mechanism, a magical book-reading device could unveil the secrets of the past. Even the recovery of early Christian gospels or the original intentions behind the U.S. Constitution could shake up our understanding of religion and law. Join this captivating exploration into how lost knowledge might be regained.

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    Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story!

    Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

    The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

    • 50 min
    EATING Like Pandas!

    EATING Like Pandas!

    In a bizarre thought experiment ripped from a headline in Scientific American, we explore a world where humans have developed a genetic mutation similar to some Labrador retrievers that causes constant hunger. This leads us down a hilarious path of imagining cities with celery slurry piped to every home, space missions needing to carry vast tanks of liquified celery, and foosball becoming the new national pastime in a low-energy society. Join us as we follow this delightfully absurd scenario to its conclusion and have some laughs about our least favorite vegetable.

    • 47 min
    REPOPULATE The Earth!

    REPOPULATE The Earth!

    In this episode, we dive into a thought-provoking journey of what could happen if humanity had to restart on Earth after different timeframes due to a complete extinction event. Imagine waking up as a clone with no prior knowledge of the world, or as a human re-seeded by aliens or from other human colonies. We explore scenarios spanning 100 years to 10,000 years, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities for rebuilding civilization. From the survival of concrete structures and the resilience of certain animals and plants to the rediscovery of lost technology and the potential misinterpretation of our current day objects as ancient artifacts, this episode navigates the fascinating concept of repopulating Earth. Tune in to unravel the complexities of starting from scratch, the impact of time on the remnants of human civilization, and how future generations might interpret the artifacts left behind by us. This imaginative exploration, inspired by a listener named Aurie from Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia, promises to spark curiosity and wonder about the resilience and adaptability of humanity and the legacy we leave behind. Listen now at http://whattheif.com/ to join us on this extraordinary speculative adventure.

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    Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story!

    Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

    The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

    • 56 min
    STEAM World!

    STEAM World!

    Our podcast episode embarks on a thought-provoking adventure led by the curiosity of Lars from Sweden. Imagine a society where modern conveniences and technological advancements are powered not by electricity, but by steam and sheer ingenuity. From the whimsical to the profound, we delve into the implications of such a world, exploring everything from the resurgence of gas lighting and the peculiar logistics of podcast delivery, to the potential environmental impacts and the quirky ways we might communicate across the globe. Join us as we ponder the steampunk-esque realities, laugh at the absurdities of daily life powered by alternative means, and marvel at the human capacity to adapt and innovate.

    • 58 min
    The HOLODECK

    The HOLODECK

    This week's episode takes a leap inspired by the latest in AI video generation to explore the concept of the Star Trek holodeck. Imagine a future where holodecks are a part of every household. We dive into the endless possibilities and the transformative potential of having personal holographic spaces. How would education, entertainment, and our understanding of history change if holodecks were real? Join us on a journey through the implications and exciting prospects of integrating holographic technology into daily life.

    ---

    Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story!

    Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

    The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

    • 47 min

Customer Reviews

4.6 out of 5
60 Ratings

60 Ratings

Reavis Creavis ,

Great show

I enjoy this show. There’s always something I learn when I listen to it.

Noeta1004 ,

Entertaining

This is a lighthearted show that is very enjoyable and funny...it’s nice to let minds run wild just to see where that leads.

HandwrittenLife ,

Artist Vs. Scientist in an Elevator

Loved your recent podcast! Cage Match. Love that it ended up in an elevator instead of as a cage match! I am definitely a “Bob” and yet, I like to look a the art in an exhibit BEFORE reading all that mumbo jumbo. Loved the idea of the big blue painting versus space too.

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