Brains On! Science Podcast for Kids – "We're Back December 17!"

Release Date: November 26, 2024
Host: Molly Bloom (American Public Media)

Introduction to the New Season

In the season premiere of Brains On!, hosted by Molly Bloom and produced by American Public Media, listeners are greeted with an enthusiastic announcement marking the return of the beloved science podcast for curious kids and their families. The episode sets the stage for an engaging season filled with intriguing questions and scientific explorations.

Behind the Scenes with the Hosts

The episode features the dynamic interactions between Molly Bloom and her co-hosts, Mark and Sandon. Their playful banter and teamwork highlight the podcast's friendly and accessible approach to science education.

• Mark kicks off the episode with humor, saying, "What a fin tastic question" when introducing the first listener inquiry about whales (00:36).

• Sandon brings energy and excitement, exclaiming, "Woo hoo," as they prepare to dive into the new questions (00:20).

• Molly showcases her organizational skills and warmth, mentioning her commitment to answering all the questions: "We won't. We'll answer all of them" (01:24).

Listener Questions: A Glimpse into the Season's Curiosity

The heart of the episode revolves around the selection of fascinating questions submitted by listeners. Molly and her co-hosts reveal a diverse array of topics that promise to captivate young minds throughout the season.

1. Do Every Individual Whales Sing a Different Song?

   • Mark introduces this intriguing question with enthusiasm: "Does every individual whale sing a different song?" (00:30).

2. Why Does Salt Make Everything Taste So Good?

   • Sandon explores the science behind our taste buds and salt's impact on flavor: "Why does salt make everything taste so good?" (00:47).

3. How Do Solar Panels Walk?

   • An imaginative query from Sandon challenges listeners to think about renewable energy in a creative way: "How do solar panels walk?" (00:56).

4. How Do Trends Start? Like, How Do Things Become Cool?

   • Molly delves into the social dynamics of trendsetting and cultural phenomena: "How do trends start? Like, how do things become cool?" (00:58).

5. Is It True That Viking Helmets Didn't Have Horns?

   • Sandon addresses historical myths and accurate representations: "Is it true that Viking helmets didn't have horns?" (01:03).

6. How Is Paper Made? We Were Wondering, Why Do Some People Have Asthma and What Causes It?

   • A two-part question from Molly combines the manufacturing process of paper with health science: "How is paper made?" and "Why do some people have asthma and what causes it?" (01:06).

7. Is It True That Dogs Can't See as Many Colors as Humans?

   • Sandon investigates the differences in canine and human vision: "Is it true that dogs can't see as many colors as humans?" (01:12).

Commitment to Comprehensive Exploration

Molly emphasizes the show's dedication to addressing every question posed by listeners, ensuring that no curiosity goes unanswered. This commitment fosters a sense of community and encourages ongoing engagement from the audience.

• Molly states confidently, "We won't. We'll answer all of them" (01:24), demonstrating the show's thorough approach.

Preparation for an Exciting Season

The hosts outline their strategy for tackling these questions, highlighting the collaborative effort required to bring scientific explanations to life.

• Mark responds affirmatively, "Aye aye, Captain. No time to spare" (01:37), indicating readiness to dive into the research.

• Molly adds a personal touch by mentioning her knitting project for Mr. Bonejangles, blending creativity with science: "I'll finish knitting my new sweater for Mr. Bonejangles. It's a herringbone pattern, his favorite" (01:40).

Conclusion and Teaser for the Season

The episode wraps up with an enthusiastic teaser for the upcoming season, inviting listeners to join the adventure of discovery starting Tuesday, December 17th.

• Molly concludes with excitement: "Get ready for a brand new season of Brains on. The Fun starts Tuesday, December 17th." (01:40).

Notable Quotes

• Mark: "Does every individual whale sing a different song?" (00:30)

• Sandon: "Why does salt make everything taste so good?" (00:47)

• Molly: "We won't. We'll answer all of them." (01:24)

• Mark: "Aye aye, Captain. No time to spare." (01:37)

• Molly: "Get ready for a brand new season of Brains on. The Fun starts Tuesday, December 17th." (01:40)

Looking Ahead

As Brains On! embarks on its new season, young listeners can anticipate a blend of scientific inquiry, entertaining discussions, and expert insights. Molly Bloom and her co-hosts are poised to transform everyday questions into captivating explorations, fostering a lifelong love for science and discovery.