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Short Wave: Daily Summaries Delivered
by NPR
New discoveries, everyday mysteries, and the science behind the headlines — in just under 15 minutes. It's science for everyone, using a lot of creativity and a little humor. Join hosts Emily Kwong and Regina Barber for science on a different wavelength.
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- Today13 min
Are extreme wildfires the new normal?
With parts of the U.S, Canada, Spain and France all ablaze with wildfires, you might be wondering: Are wildfires on the rise? If so, know that you mind-melded with the entire Short Wave staff. We had the exact same thought – and then went down some reporting rabbit holes and turned it into a whole episode. And let us just say: The answer is surprisingly complicated! But don’t you worry. We get into all the nuances this episode.Interested in more science behind the headlines? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. It includes perks like bonus episodes, early access, archive access, curated playlists and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy
- Yesterday13 min
A cooler of eggs and a bold plan to save leopard sharks
Leopard sharks have nearly vanished from the waters in Raja Ampat, Indonesia. The country is one of the largest shark fishing nations in the world. Now, a first-of-its-kind conservation project is working to bring Indo-Pacific leopard sharks back from the brink of extinction. This international project hatches their eggs and raises shark pups to rewild them into the ocean where they once thrived. Will it be enough?For answers, we talk to freelance journalist Katerina Barton. She takes us behind-the-scenes to a shark nursery and shares what this conservation project could mean for other shark species.Interested in more conservation news? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. It includes perks like bonus episodes, early access, archive access, curated playlists and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy
- 2 days agonarrative10 min3-min read
Could this nasal spray replace all your vaccines one day?
This episode of NPR's Shortwave explores the groundbreaking research of immunologist Bali Pulendran, who is developing a universal vaccine that could protect against multiple pathogens by harnessing the ancient innate immune system. The potential for a single nasal spray to offer broad, temporary immunity could revolutionize how we approach seasonal and pandemic threats.
- 5 days agonarrative9 min4-min read
The problem with modern avocados — and the ancient solution
This episode of NPR's Shortwave delivers a biweekly roundup of fascinating science discoveries, from ancient avocados and warrior princesses to universal patterns in birdsong, all while emphasizing the importance of scientific curiosity and public support for independent journalism.
- 1 weeks agonarrative12 min4-min read
Does the science of peptides live up to the hype?
Peptides, short chains of amino acids like those found naturally in the body, are gaining popularity among fitness enthusiasts and celebrities for purported benefits ranging from muscle recovery to anti-aging, but they lack robust clinical evidence and regulatory oversight. Despite growing demand, scientists and FDA officials warn of serious health risks due to unregulated production and use, raising urgent questions about how to balance public safety with access.
- 1 weeks agonarrative10 min3-min read
cyclosporiasis-illness-cyclospora-lettuce-taco-bell
A surge in cyclosporiasis cases across the U.S. has led to over 1,600 confirmed infections and potentially thousands more, marking the largest outbreak of the parasite to date. NPR’s Shortwave explores the science, public health response, and personal precautions amid uncertainty about the source.
- 1 weeks agonarrative13 min4-min read
Are Trump and AI driving a nuclear power boom?
NPR's Shortwave examines the rapid deployment of small nuclear reactors in the U.S., driven by a directive from President Trump and fueled by surging energy demands from AI. While four experimental reactors achieved criticality by July 4, 2026—beating a self-imposed deadline—concerns are mounting over safety, regulatory bypasses, and the long-term economic viability of this nuclear push.
- 1 weeks agonarrative13 min4-min read
Why did designing the World Cup pitches take eight years?
This episode of NPR's Shortwave dives into the sophisticated science behind the World Cup soccer fields, revealing how turfgrass experts ensure safe, consistent, and high-performing natural grass pitches across 16 diverse stadiums. The story underscores how meticulous research and innovation in turf management not only elevate elite sports but also hold promise for improving community athletic fields.
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About Short Wave
New discoveries, everyday mysteries, and the science behind the headlines — in just under 15 minutes. It's science for everyone, using a lot of creativity and a little humor. Join hosts Emily Kwong and Regina Barber for science on a different wavelength.
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AI-powered recaps with compact key takeaways, quotes, and insights.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Podzilla's Short Wave daily summary?
It's a free AI-powered email that summarizes new episodes of Short Wave as soon as they're published. You get the key takeaways, notable quotes, and links & mentions — all in a quick read.
How does the Short Wave podcast summary work?
When a new episode drops, our AI transcribes and analyzes it, then generates a personalized summary tailored to your interests and profession. It's delivered to your inbox every morning.
Is this an official Short Wave product?
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How often does Short Wave release new episodes?
Short Wave publishes daily. Our AI generates a summary within hours of each new episode.
What topics does Short Wave cover?
Short Wave covers topics including Science, News, Daily News. Our AI identifies the specific themes in each episode and highlights what matters most to you.
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