Learn what it means when you have something “in your genes” with help from award-winning author Carl Zimmer; whether cockroaches really can survive a nuclear apocalypse; and how to change behaviors using a subtle suggestion.

Learn from virologist Paul Duprex how vaccines in developing countries in places like Africa and southeast Asia actually make you safer, and how modern medicine could some day completely eliminate the measles. Duprex is the director of the Center for Vaccine Research at the University of Pittsburgh and a professor of microbiology and cellular genetics.

Learn about why metals, fruit, and vegetables spark in the microwave, and the 1-3-5 method for arranging your to-do list. Plus, hear a couple lesser-known stories from the 20th-century space race between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, with some help from a special guest, Dr. David Warmflash.

Learn about why the US once launched millions of copper needles into space; why bikes don’t fall down when you ride them; and 3 ways big data can predict what you really like to watch or listen to.

Learn about what’s really going on when you feel sore after a workout; why we don’t know who designed the Taj Mahal; and the real reason why you have to change your clock for Daylight Saving Time.

Learn about the truth behind common myths about vision; what that “guilty look” on your dog’s face actually means; and the nearly impossible Chinese college entrance exam, the gaokao.

Learn about common misconceptions around learning that even educators believe; the scientific reason why it feels like you always have more room for dessert; and how science writer Carl Zimmer responded when we asked him “what is life?”

Learn about why Earth twinkles from space; why pockets are so rare in women’s clothes; and whether the first life emerged on land or water.

Learn about what causes an equinox or a solstice; how a rare condition can give you a foreign accent; and, an 80-year Harvard study that found the greatest predictor of happiness in later life.

Learn about why sniffing is contagious; and, how one biologist solved the mystery of a rare tree that scientifically shouldn’t exist, but does. Plus, virologist Paul Duprex explains how vaccines work in babies and in people with a weakened immune system.

Learn how quickly you’d age if you could move at the speed of light; how scientists discovered that Neanderthals actually walked upright; and why hangovers seem to get worse with age.

Learn about why people around the world keep their milk at different temperatures; a diet that’s good for your health and for the health of the planet; and, a cognitive bias that might make you think that everyone agrees with you.

Learn about the shadowy “red market” of bones, with help from author Brian Switek. You’ll also learn why venting your anger is unhealthy, and what you should do instead; and, why asparagus makes your pee smell weird.

Learn how important it really is to refuel right after a workout; and, why it’s important to learn about the chemicals in tattoo ink. We’ll also discuss a listener question about egg entropy with a special guest, Ralph Crewe from the podcast Science, News, and Q’s.

In this podcast, Cody Gough and Ashley Hamer discuss the innovative Active Learning Initiative with Cornell University’s Vice Provost for Academic Innovation Julia Thom-Levy, who is also a professor in their department of physics.