Super Awesome Science Show (SASS)
Curiouscast
On Season 2 of The Super Awesome Science Show Jason Tetro explores the science behind Pandemics with the help of some of the brightest minds in science today. From vaccines to a potential second Wave of COVID we'll try and help you understand every aspect of what's going on and answer your science questions. Science made simple, that's what we're all about, Now with new episodes every single week.
The miracle of MRNA vaccines
It has been a long and painful pandemic but the light at the end of the tunnel is within our sights. While there are many reasons for what will surely be a celebration, there is one one particular medical advancement that has raised all of our spirits and may represent the future for battling disease. It’s the mRNA vaccine.
This week, we’re closing out our season on COVID-19 science with a guest we all need to hear. He is Pieter Cullis and he a Professor in the Department of Biochemistr
COVID-19 Variants - SASS Class
It’s time for the Super Awesome Science Show SASS Class on COVID-19 variants.
I want to thank everyone who reached out to me. We received quite a few and will try to answer them today.
We’re back with Earl Brown, a professor emeritus at the University of Ottawa and also a colleague with whom I’ve performed research and published on emerging pathogens such as SARS and avian flu. He has been observing the impact of variants and is ready to answer your questions.
Next week is our season finale
COVID-19 Variants
Over the course of the pandemic, our vocabulary has gained a specific word that has come to represent great concern and distress in our global community. Variant. In the context of COVID-19, it has meant a resurgence in viral infections, resistance to treatments, and the risk of an ineffective vaccine.
This week, we’re going to look at the science behind SARS-CoV-2 variants with Earl Brown. He’s a professor emeritus at the University of Ottawa and also a colleague with whom I’ve perfor
COVID-19 and wastewater - SASS Class
It’s time for the Super Awesome Science Show SASS Class on COVID-19 and wastewater.
I want to thank everyone who reached out to me. We received quite a few and will try to answer them today.
We’re back with Tyson Graber, a research associate at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute. He has been working on the development of wastewater testing and has gained support from the local government who now shares that data with the population.
Over the last few months, I hav
COVID-19 and wastewater
It may seem like COVID-19 is everywhere and this week, we’re going to find out how we can take advantage of that fact. Research has shown that the virus behind the disease, SARS-CoV-2 can survive in sewage and be identified using a diagnostic test. More importantly, the results of those tests provide an early warning system to communities about the spread of the disease.
Our guest this week has been working on the development of wastewater testing and has gained support from the local governme
The science of Covid-19 Diagnostics - SASS Class
It’s time for the Super Awesome Science Show SASS Class on COVID-19 and diagnostic tests.
I want to thank everyone who reached out to me. We received quite a few and will try to answer them today.
Our guest this week has been focused on why we need diagnostic tests for all to get us past this pandemic and to keep us safe and confident even long after. She is Cherie Lynn Ramirez and she is an assistant professor in the Chemistry and Physics Department at Simmons University. She was the Deputy
The science of COVID-19 Diagnostics
The old adage of the only thing to fear is fear itself sometimes rings true although in the case of pandemics, it has a different meaning. We should fear the pandemic but in many cases, people tend to fear and rebel against the measures to keep people safe.
But there is a way to prevent this from happening in an equitable way. It’s through the use of rapid diagnostic tests. They can help to keep us aware of the location of a pandemic virus, how’s it’s spreading in the community, and how
COVID-19 and Mental (ill) Health Sass Class
It’s time for the Super Awesome Science Show SASS Class on COVID-19 and its effects on our healthcare heroines.
I want to thank everyone who reached out to me. We received quite a few and will try to answer them today.
Our guest is Emily Jenkins. Emily Jenkins. She is an Assistant Professor at the School of Nursing at the University of British Columbia. She is focused on optimizing mental health outcomes for Canadians through collaborative mental health promotion strategies; health serv
COVID-19 and mental (ill) health
Pandemics usually are known for their impact on physical health in the forms of infection. But these worldwide outbreaks also affect mental health both in direct and indirect ways. We spoke about the direct manners earlier this season and this week, we’re taking a look at the indirect ways.
Our guest is Emily Jenkins. Emily Jenkins. She is an Assistant Professor at the School of Nursing at the University of British Columbia. She is focused on optimizing mental health outcomes for Canadi
COVID-19 Healthcare Heroines - SASS Class
In times of crisis, we look to heroines. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they have come in the form of healthcare workers. They have given so much of themselves and we are grateful. Yet, even as we offer our thanks, there continues to be suffering in the form of anxiety, burnout, and depression.
This week, we’re going to hear about how COVID-19 is affecting our healthcare heroines with our guest, Abi Sriharan. She is the Program Director for Systems Leadership and Innovation and an Assist
COVID-19 and Healthcare Heroines
In times of crisis, we look to heroines. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they have come in the form of healthcare workers. They have given so much of themselves and we are grateful. Yet, even as we offer our thanks, there continues to be suffering in the form of anxiety, burnout, and depression.
This week, we’re going to hear about how COVID-19 is affecting our healthcare heroines with our guest, Abi Sriharan. She is the Program Director for Systems Leadership and Innovation and an Assist
COVID-19 and the Brain - SASS Class
SHOW NOTES – COVID-19 AND THE BRAIN - SASS CLASS
It’s time for the Super Awesome Science Show SASS Class on COVID-19 and its effects on our brains and nervous system.
I want to thank everyone who reached out to me. We received quite a few Emails and DMs and we got to so many during this discussion.
We again are joined by Mark MacLean. He is a resident in the department of neurosurgery at Dalhousie University. He has been focused on learning more about the ways this virus get into our b
COVID-19 and the Brain
The brain is one of the most protected parts of the human body. Yet, viruses such as herpes, HIV and now SARS-CoV-2, the cause of COVID-19, have demonstrated their ability to get into this sacred space. Because the brain controls so many of our normal bodily functions, this invasion can lead to a variety of problems, known as neurological sequelae.
This week, we’re exploring what is currently known about the effect of COVID-19 on the brain and the nervous system in general. Our guest i
The Heartbreak of COVID-19 - SASS class
It’s time for the Super Awesome Science Show SASS Class on COVID-19 and heart health.
I want to thank everyone who reached out to me. We received quite a few Emails and DMs and we got to so many during this discussion.
We again are joined by Ian Paterson. He is a Professor in the Department of Medicine in the Division of Cardiology of the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry at the University of Alberta. He’s a cardiac researcher who has been working to better understand the effects of COV
The heartbreak of COVID-19
Almost as soon as COVID-19 appeared, one of the most troubling consequences was revealed. The virus, SARS-CoV-2 had an effect on the cardiovascular system, including the heart. Since then, researchers have tried to better understand not only the mechanisms behind this added trouble, but also the risks due to pre-existing conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
Our guest this week is Ian Paterson. He is a Professor in the Department of Medicine in the Division of Cardiology
The COVID battle of the sexes - SASS class
It’s time for the Super Awesome Science Show SASS Class on COVID-19 and biological sex.
I want to thank everyone who reached out to me. We received quite a few Emails and DMs about the episode although most of them centred on a few important questions. It shows that when it comes to travel, we all seem to have the same concerns and hopes for the future.
Our guest is once again Eileen Scully. She is an assistant professor of medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine an
The COVID battle of the sexes
The determination of biological sex occurs at the genetic level in which one of our 46 chromosomes can either be an X or a Y. But that one variance can lead to countless differences between the two. Now, thanks to COVID-19, we have another as it has become clear XX and XY respond to the virus differently.
Last year, Eileen Scully outlined those differences and I’ve asked her to come on the show to share them with us. She is an assistant professor of medicine at the Johns Hopkins Univer
The travelling pandemic - SASS class
It’s time for the Super Awesome Science Show SASS Class on travel.
I want to thank everyone who reached out to me. We received quite a few Emails and DMs about the episode although most of them centred on a few important questions. It shows that when it comes to travel, we all seem to have the same concerns and hopes for the future.
Our first guest is once again Ron St. John and he was the Director General of the Centre for Emergency Preparedness and Response at the Public Health Agenc
The Travelling Pandemic
Billions of trips occur yearly by all sorts of vessels including cars, trains, boats, and airplanes. They help humans get from point A to point B quickly and effectively. But travel can also help turn an outbreak into a pandemic. Over the millennia, we’ve seen how human movement and migration can spread an infectious disease across the planet.
We have had a few close calls and one was the SARS epidemic in 2003. After the world returned to normal, our guest worked on how to develop early
A conversation with David Suzuki
As 2020 comes to a close we’re moving away from COVID-19 for a moment to talk with one of Canada’s greatest treasures, David Suzuki.
For almost sixty years, he has been bringing science into our homes on radio and television and has inspired generations of scientists. We talk with him about his history, his motivation for being a science communicator and the lessons he has learned over the years. We also discuss his new adventure, a podcast, that will surely create an impact on anyone w
The Science of Grief - SASS Class
It’s time for the Super Awesome Science Show SASS Class on grief.
I want to thank everyone who reached out to me. We received quite a few Emails and DMs about the episode and it seems like many of you are opening up about other areas of science with respect to this pandemic. I’ll be getting to one such question in this show.
Our guest is once again, Katherine Shear. She is the Marion E. Kenworthy Professor of Psychiatry in Social Work at the Columbia School of Social Work and the Columb
The Science of Grief
There are several unknowns when it comes to a pandemic but there is always one guarantee. People are going to be hurt and many are going to die. When that happens, people are going to grieve.
This week, we are going to explore the science of grief with one of the world’s best experts, Katherine Shear. She is the Marion E. Kenworthy Professor of Psychiatry in Social Work at the Columbia School of Social Work and the Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons. She’s also the founding director of
Victory for Vaccines: Q&A
It’s time for the Super Awesome Science Show SASS Class on vaccines.
I want to thank everyone who reached out to me. We received quite a few Emails and DMs about the episode although as we saw with airborne spread, most of them centred on a similar theme or topic. Then there was one that seemed to come from everyone - will a vaccine get us back to normal? You’ll definitely want to hear the answer.
Our guest is again Peter Hotez, who is the Dean for the National School of Tropical Medi
Victory with Vaccines
There’s no doubt vaccines have changed our world for the better. We’ve been able to save countless lives from several infectious diseases and managed to eradicate one of the deadliest, smallpox, off the planet. Now people are calling for a vaccine to fight COVID-19 to ensure it is controlled, eliminated and eventually eradicated.
For this episode, we reached out to Peter Hotez. He’s spent decades developing vaccines and has been a leader in the COVID vaccine movement. He’s the Dean for
Pandemic Panic Q&A
It’s time for the Super Awesome Science Show SASS Class on panic..
I want to thank everyone who reached out to me. We received several questions, many of which were asked more than once. And then there was one that it seems everyone wanted to ask.
Our guest is again Mark Honigsbaum at the City University of London, author of the book, “The Pandemic Century: One Hundred Years of Panic, Hysteria and Hubris.”
If you didn’t hear your question, make sure to contact me on Twitter, by Emai
Pandemic Panic
When infections strike, it’s normal for people to be concerned. Depending on the extent of spread within a community, that concern can deepen leading to individual panic and mass hysteria. Whie this is rare for most outbreaks, it is almost guaranteed when large scale epidemics and pandemics occur.
This week, we’re going to explore the science behind the panic with Mark Honigsbaum, a Senior Lecturer in Journalism at the City University of London. Last year, he wrote “The Pandemic Centur
The Marvels of the Mask: Q&A
It’s time for the Super Awesome Science Show SASS Class, mask edition.
Once again, I was thrilled to see so many questions and want to thank everyone who reached out to me on Twitter, by Email, and also at speakpipe.com. This is definitely a controversial topic and I’m glad we’ll be able to discuss this topic further.
I have M. Taher Saif with me to help answer those questions. He’s the he Edward William and Jane Marr Gutgsell Professor at the Grainger College of Engineering at the Univ
The Marvels of the Mask
When dealing with a respiratory virus like the common cold, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2, the cause of COVID-19, a mask is without a doubt one of the best ways to protect yourself.
But, masks are not perfect. You need to be sure you have enough of them for one. And then you have to make sure they work to protect you. After all, why wear something that is just going to let the droplets in.
We’re going to explore how masks work and why homemade masks may be better for you than those medical
The Science of COVID - Airborne Spread goes Viral: Q & A
It’s time for the Super Awesome Science Show SASS Class, airborne spread edition.
I have to admit, I was taken aback by the questions and want to thank everyone who reached out to me on Twitter, by Email, and also at speakpipe.com. I know this subject is both scary and surprising and appreciate that we need answers.
It’s why I have Steven Rogak with me to answer those questions. He’s a mechanical engineering professor at the University of British Columbia and a world expert on the morph
The Science of COVID - Airborne spread goes viral
We are back for Season 2 of the Super Awesome Science Show!
It’s been a year unlike any other thanks to, COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) and the virus that causes this illness, SARS-CoV-2. We’ve received numerous questions over the course of the year and want to answer as many of them as possible.
And this week, we’re going into one of the most confusing and hotly debated topics of this pandemic: how does the virus spread in the air?
Our guest for the entire show is Steven Rogak. He
The Covid Second Wave: Questions and Answers
It’s time for the Super Awesome Science Show SASS Class on the second wave..
I want to thank everyone who reached out to me on Twitter, by Email, and also at speakpipe.com. I know this subject is not only present in our minds but also under much debate.
It’s why I have Patrick Saunders-Hastings with me to answer those questions. He is an epidemiologist and risk scientist who teaches at Carleton University. He has expertise in global health, infectious disease epidemiology and emergency prepare
The COVID-19 Second Wave
We are back for Season 2 of the Super Awesome Science Show!
It’s been a year unlike any other thanks to, COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) and the virus that causes this illness, SARS-CoV-2. We’ve received numerous questions over the course of the year and want to answer as many of them as possible.
And this week, we’re going into one of the most troubling issues facing us at this very moment: the second wave. It has been looming ever since the pandemic began but despite the focus on
Season 2 is coming September 28th!
After an awesome first season, we took a well-deserved break.
In that time, the world has changed and as much as we want to talk about the science of love, food, and even UFOs, we cannot ignore the massive impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
So that’s what we’ll focus at the start of our second season…
We’re going to deal with topics that are in the news but maybe need more explanation like what does it really mean that the virus is airborne spread, what is the second wave and we’ll eve
Introducing WTM: COVID-19 The dos and don’ts of social distancing
Today, we’re joined by scientist and host of the Super Awesome Science Show Jason Tetro to talk about what we know about how the coronavirus spreads and how to properly practice social distancing. As we’re at the point now where health officials are saying the only way to slow the spread of COVID-19 is through social distancing. But the thing is, in order for us to have any kind of impact and get back to our normal lives, experts are stressing that we have to do it properly. Learn more
The Cost of Lead Poisoning
This week, we’re going to explore the problems associated with lead exposure and lead poisoning that you may not have heard in the news. We’ll learn about how it impacts intelligence and also may affect the mental health not of just the exposed, but also their children. And in our SASS Class, we’re going to find out why it is so difficult to remove lead from our modern world and how you may still be able to stay safe
Twitter: @JATetroEmail: thegermguy@gmail.com Guests:
- Gina Muckle - S
Scatterbrain
It’s something that we all encounter. No matter how hard we try, we can’t seem to think straight. Our thoughts get jumbled and before we know it, we’re lost. We tend to call it being scatterbrained and for the most part, that’s considered a bad thing. On this week’s show, we’re going to look at the science behind this apparent flaw in our mental machinery and why it may be good for us when it comes to learning and understanding. Our guest for the entire show is Henning Beck, a neuroscie
How to survive the holidays without going into debt.
We tend to go overboard on spending. If we are not careful, our celebrations of December can become a January curse that may last for the rest of the year.
This week, we’re going to explore our tendency to spend money and how we can keep ourselves from falling into debt. Our guest for the entire show is Gail Vaz Oxlade, who is one of Canada’s best financial experts. She’s been an author, radio host, and the star of internationally acclaimed television programs such as Til Debt Do Us Par
Smells of the Season
As we get ready for the holidays we thought we would share with you this episode about the smells of the Holiday Season in case you missed it in the hustle and bustle of the most wonderful time of the year.
On this week’s episode of the Super Awesome Science Show, we stick our noses into the science of smelling, scientifically known as olfaction, and find out how certain scents can draw out attention, bring back memories, and even affect our buying behaviour.
We first talk with Dr. Lesl
Introducing Issue Zero
This week we're introducing you to a new podcast called Issue Zero to answer the questions what makes Aliens and the Xenomorph, so terrifying? and could a scenario like Alien happen here on earth?
Taking you on this voyage of discover is your host, not in a parasitic way, Fred Kennedy, and he'll share with you the backstory on the Alien film franchise…and more specifically, its star player…the Xenomorph. He's joined by Johnnie Christmas, who just adapted the original William Gibson screenplay f
The Rise of Zero Emission Vehicles
This week, we’re going to look at one of the most revolutionary ideas to improve our planet. It’s called the zero emission vehicle – better known as ZEV – and it may be able to reduce our contribution to air pollution and possibly climate change.
Most people may know the name Tesla, which is one of the first truly zero emission vehicles on the market. It runs on batteries like many others that are in the pipeline. But there are other types that exist including an engine that runs on hyd
Cancer - treatment to vaccine
Cancer continues to be one of our greatest health concerns. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, nearly 1 in 2 Canadians will develop one form of cancer in their lifetimes. But treatments are getting better and more lives are being saved thanks to new treatments. On this week’s show, we’re going to take a closer look at three new strategies that may soon lead to cures and also vaccines.
Our first guest is one of Canada’s premier cancer researchers, John Bell at the Ottawa Hopsital
The Benefits of Bilingualism
We all have our mother tongue but over forty percent of the world’s population also can speak a second language. Bilingualism is a natural part of many people’s lives and research has tried to explore what this does to the brain and what the benefits happen to be for our lives. On this week’s show, we’re going to learn why having that second language can be good for your life and also your health.
Our first guest has been studying bilingualism for decades and is here to help us understand how
The Science of Fear
We all experience fear but few of us understand it. It usually happens when we feel unsafe or threatened. It is both instinctual and learned. And for some, it can take over their lives while for others, it can be a source for excitement. On this week’s show, we’re going to take a closer look at fear and why it's such a strange and fascinating aspect of our existence.
Our first guests are studying how fear exists in the brain and how it impacts our lives, They're Jacob Raber and Sydney
It's not Science Fiction, it's Synthetic Biology and food
Synthetic biology was once considered little more than science fiction. But with the rise of genetic engineering and the ability to make living cells in the lab, there is a real potential for this technology to change our lives for the better. Not surprisingly, this has led to much debate about whether we should use it or not. On this week’s show, we discover how “synbio” can help to improve our food security.
Our first guest is Lenore Newman and she is the Canada Research Chair in Fo
Heroines of Food Security
Food security is a major concern as our populations increases and our food supply dwindles. Although efforts around the world are focused on trying to sustain our ability to eat, efforts in Africa tend to go unnoticed. This week, we’re going to look at the work being done in various regions across the continent and more importantly, how they are being led by women.
Our first guest is Esther Ngumbi, who is originally from Eastern Kenya and is now a professor at the University of Illinois
Don't Fall For Fake News
In a 24/7 news environment, stories sometimes get the facts wrong. But normally, these lapses are not intentional. But recently, there has been an explosion in false, inaccurate, and harmful stories that are made with the sole purpose of convincing the public that a different reality exists. It’s known as fake news and on this week’s show, we’re going to explore its nature, how to diagnose it, and also how not to be fooled by it.
Our first guest is Amber Day, a professor at Bryant
Building Morality
We tend to believe that morality is knowing the difference between right and wrong. But it's so much more. It's the basis for how we live, because each of us has a unique sense of morality. This week, we look at how morality is developed in children and how we can ensure they become moral adults.
Our guest for the entire episode is Melanie Killen. She's a professor of human development and quantitative methodology and the associate director for the Center for Children, Relationships, an
The Marvels of Mushrooms
Mushrooms can be a welcome addition to any dish. They offer an earthy flavour as well as a meaty texture to tickle our palates. But while mushrooms are great in cuisine, they also have other uses outside of the kitchen. On this week’s show, we explore some of the scientific uses of these edible fungi and how they may be able improve our lives.
For centuries, mushrooms have been regarded as medicines in several cultures. Our first guest is working to merge the modern with the ancient. His name i
UFOlogy
Have you ever seen strange lights in the sky? How about odd shaped vessels floating around in the air. If you have and cannot explain its nature, you have seen an unidentified flying object, better known as a UFO. On this week’s show, we’re going to venture into the world that’s working to figure out what these mysterious craft happen to be. It’s known as Ufology.
Out guest for the entire episode is Ryan Sprague. He’s one of the prominent members of this community and has shared his
What is Bullying?
On this week’s show, we’re going to take a serious look at bullying and how we may be able to prevent it.
We first talk with Melissa Holt, who is an associate professor in counseling psychology at the Wheelock College of Education & Human Development at Boston University. She has been studying bullying for close to two decades and has revealed that it is far more complex than we might believe. We hear about what fosters bullying and victimization and how a bully-victim relationship
Relevance in Education
Education is traditionally thought to be comprised of the three Rs – reading, writing, and arithmetic. But research has revealed that students can become better if they are able to see problems and questions in a particular social context. This is known as relevance. On this week’s show, we’re going to explore how relevance can be used to keep students creative and positive.
Our first guest is Heidi Bertels at the College of Staten Island of the City University of New York. She has e
I Want To Ride My Bicycle
Over the last few years, getting around by bicycle has surged in popularity. On this week’s show, we’re going to explore what has led to the increase and how we might be able to make Canada a cycling nation.
We first talk with Meghan Winters at Simon Fraser University about the rise in biking across the country. She reveals some of the reasons behind the surge and why biking hasn’t become the most utilized form of transportation. Using examples of success stories in this country, she shares her
Social Media
How long can you go without looking at one of your social media platforms? An hour? Two? More? Less? Social media has become an integral part in most of our lives although perhaps not for the better. On this week’s show, we’re going to look at some of the problems associated with social media and how you might be able to keep yourself safe from the potential harm to your mental health.
We first talk with Stephanie Dailey. She is an assistant professor of communication studies at Texas S
The Merits of Mindfulness
A decade ago, no one knew what mindfulness was other than a trait you were taught by your parents when it comes to others. But this traditional practice of self-improvement has gained significant attention in the medical community as it appears to help reduce anxiety. On this week’s show, we’re going to venture into the other benefits of mindfulness that may lead you to add this technique to your lifestyle.
Our first guest is Adele Diamond. She is a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Deve
Water Worries
Access to clean and safe water is a human need and is a right. However, for over 2 billion people, this simply is not the case. What’s worse is that in countries that have enjoyed the luxury of treated water, there is a troubling trend. From boil water orders to breaks in the system to massive outbreaks, our water supply is at risk. On this week’s show, we’re going to explore why we should be worried about our water.
We first talk with Natalie Hull, an assistant professor of civil, envi
Mixology
On this week’s show, we’re going to explore the science behind making the perfect drink and whether this is another task that may be taken over by robots. We’ll also learn of one combination that really should never be done.
We first talk with a mixologist who is working to change the entire realm of the science. He’s Jim Meehan and he owns Mixography, Inc. He has been involved in the mixology world for years and has developed into a powerhouse in the industry. He takes us through th
This Episode is the (arm)Pits!
How many times to you check your armpits a day? It’s a common practice for most because in our society, no one wants to have wetness or odour. On this week’s show, we’re going to explore the nature of those two traits and how those deodorants and anti-perspirants make be changing the way we smell.
Our first guest is Jessica Gaby. She is postdoctoral scientist at Penn State University, and she has been studying the smell that emits from under our arms. But her research isn’t on chemist
Hotel Horrors
Every night, close to five million people spend the night away from home in accommodations, like hotels. With a number that large, there’s bound to be problems. Most of the time, they are easy to solve. On this week's Super Awesome Science Show, we’re going to look how a hotel stay may be a bane rather than a place for comfort.
We first talk with John Catucci. He’s best known hosting Food Network Canada's You Gotta Eat Here! and his most recent series, Big Food Bucket List. He’s trave
Bad Hair Days
Take a look at the cosmetics section of any store and you’ll see the most populated and diverse area happens to be hair care. We have an obsession with having those great locks although for many, trying to get the perfect ‘do can be a frustrating struggle.
On this week’s show, we take a closer look at the nature of our hair by starting off with an historical perspective. We speak with anthropology doctoral student Tina Lasisi who has been exploring how our hair came to be and why we may
Oh Canada! Celebrating Canada in Science
There’s little doubt Canada has the reputation of one of the best countries in the world. The same can be said about science in this nation. For over a century, Canadian scientists have been making discoveries that have changed the world. We’ve even had our fair share of Nobel Prize winners.
Having a reputation in the scientific community is one thing but nothing beats having a voice on Parliament Hill and this week, we’re going to talk with Canada’s first ever Minister of Science, the
Lies
Humans tend to communicate in a number of ways apart from verbal expression. We use our arms, our posture, and other gestures to convey what we’re thinking. But did you ever imagine that we may be able to code these movements so that we know what another person is feeling? Now add to that the subject of this classification isn’t our arms or the way we stand, it’s small movements of the face. Sounds almost impossible, right?
Well, this does exist and on this week’s show, we’re devoting t
Ticked Off By Lyme
It seems every year we har about another disease that threatens our health. One of them happens to be a condition known as Lyme Disease. It’s cause by a bacterium known as Borrelia and it can have some pretty nasty symptoms including fever, fatigue, and joint pain. Worse, it may have the ability to stick around and cause people years of pains ranging from arthritis to neurological and even heart problems. As for how it’s spread, it comes from the bite of a tick. There’s been an explosio
(Here Comes) The Sun
We’re getting close to summer and that means more sun and warmer temperatures. That also means a greater chance of skin damage due to that ultraviolet ray exposure. On this week’s show, we’re going to take a closer look at one of the most dire consequences of getting too much sun, skin cancer.
To get a better idea of the risk, we have Jennifer Beecker, a cancer researcher with us to talk about this disease. We first get into the nature of skin and some of the issues with sun and skin in
Me, Myself, and A.I
Artificial intelligence has become a natural part of our existence from voice recognition to making playlists to determining which driving route is the fastest. But AI still hasn’t become an integral part of our health. While AI does appear in some of our applications, such as those exercise apps on your smartphone, it has not yet been fully accepted as a replacement for doctors and nurses. On this week’s show, we’re going to explore how AI is involved in health and the pitfalls that pr
Blind to natural beauty
The universe is an unending source of beauty but most of us in our daily lives tend to miss out on the wonders that exist. On this week’s show, we’re going to explore how we are blind to the beauty of the world around us and what we can do to improve our senses.
We start off the show with Ziya Tong. She was the longtime host of Daily Planet and has written a book about our inability to see our universe. It’s entitled, The Reality Bubble: Blind Spots, Hidden Truths, And The Dangerous Ill
The World of BBQ
Summer is here and for many of us, that means going outside and cooking in the great outdoors. Although there are many ways to prepare food in the open, nothing quite compares to barbecue. Today, we’re exploring the world of barbecue and learning that it’s much more than a technique for cuisine. It’s a distinct and unique societal culture.
We start the show with Matt Basile. He’s the creator of the Toronto-based street food brand Fidel Gastro’s although you might best know him for his t
The Beneficial Bee
For most of us, the sight of a bee might bring about a sense of unease. But for those people who study these amazing creatures, they represent an integral part of our planet and our food supply. Today, we’re going to explore the benefits of bees and why we should learn to love them rather than fear them.
Our first guest is Noah Wilson Rich, the CEO of Best Bees. He’s been researching bees for decades although over the last few years, he has found a love for urban beekeeping. We learn ab
Science of Moms
Mother’s Day is approaching and today, we’re going to look at some of the science that makes mothers who they are and how we can support them every day of the year.
We start off the show with one of Canada’s best-known personalities, Sangita Patel. She’s a Senior Entertainment Reporter for Entertainment Tonight Canada and the newest Canadian spokesperson for Cover Girl. She’s also a mother to two amazing daughters. We discuss the challenges of having a successful career in television an
For The Love of Dogs
Dogs are known as our best friends and on this week’s Super Awesome Science Show, we’re going to explore some of the science behind these loving, caring, and devoted members of our lives.
We first talk with Tanya Kim. She is one of Canada’s best known journalists but she also is one of this country’s strongest dog and animal advocates. She’s also the companion of Miss Mabel, a Dogue de Bordeaux who has carved out a career as a model. We learn about the importance of Mabel in Tanya’s lif
The Quantum Realm
There’s something about the term quantum physics that brings both intrigue and intimidation. We see quantum as the way of the future but also know it’s one of the most complex branches of science. On this week’s show, we’re going to dive into this mysterious world to demystify it and reveal how it’s part of our everyday lives.
Our first guest is Tracey Forrest. She is the Program Director for Transformative Quantum Technologies at the University of Waterloo. We explore what makes quantum so fas
The Science of Spring Fever
We’ve all heard about Spring Fever although medically speaking, it’s not really an illness. Instead, it refers to a change in our behaviour that happens to align with the changing of the seasons. On this week’s show, we’re going to explore some of the science behind these changes to our ways and possibly offer some perspective on how to deal with the consequences.
Our first guest may have a reason for the effects of spring fever. We are being exposed to more light. She is Dr. Kathryn Ro
The Disease Detectives
When we feel unwell, we seek out medical attention. However, figuring out what is wrong with us may not be as simple as a quick visit to the clinic. On this week’s show, we’re going to dive into the world of disease detectives known officially as diagnosis.
Our first guest is probably the best person to discuss what diagnosis means to us. She is Lisa Sanders and she is an educator at Yale University. But she is better known as the author of the long running New York Times Series, Diagno
The Plight of Parkinson's
We’re going to look at a disease that affects over ten million people worldwide and over 100,000 in Canada, Parkinson’s Disease. The movement disorder has been known for centuries and while we know the cause, we still have no cure.
We first talk with someone who has Parkinson’s to learn more about the disease and how it affects those who suffer. He is Larry Gifford, the Program Director at CKNW in Vancouver. He’s also the host of the podcast, When Life Gives You Parkinson’s. We lea
The Science Behind April Fools
Have you ever been the target of an April Fools’ prank? Although you may not realize it, the effort that goes into these attempts at humour are nothing to laugh at. It takes time, research, and proper planning to make a prank or even a joke work. This week, we’re going to learn more about the mechanics and the needs for a good April Fools joke.
Our first guest is Thomas Limoncelli. He’s a systems analyst and helps information technology companies succeed. He’s also a web-based April Foo
Science in Translation
When you hear someone talk science, you might find it to be an entirely different language. In many ways it is. However, since science is important for decisions regarding health and the environment, scientists need to translate their world to the public. On this week’s show, we’re going to explore how this is being done and why the work of translators can help you avoid going to classes to learn science as a second language.
Our first guest is Maureen Dobbins, a professor at McMaster U
Separating Science from Nonsense
No matter where you look, there always seems to be someone trying to sell you a new way to improve your life, health, or environment. Unfortunately, many of these products, programs, and routines are not based in science. In some cases, the hawkers purposefully reject science in the hopes you may believe they have the right answers.
Historically, these people have been called a variety of names but today, we tend to call them quacks. On this week’s show, we’re going to explore this anti
Superheroines of Science
Can you name a female scientist? How about two? If you can’t, don’t worry. The recognition of female scientists is rather poor. But don’t worry because on this episode of the Super Awesome Science Show, we have got you covered. We’ll go through some of the most amazing contributions women have made to advancing our technology and making your lives better. We also are fortunate to welcome two of Canada’s greatest science superheroines to the show.
Our first guest has been known for well over two
Phaging out the Resistance
The rise of antibiotic resistant bacteria is a human health crisis. But few people appreciate the impact of this phenomenon on their lives. This week, we’re going to take a very personal look at what happens when someone gets a resistant infection and how a treatment from a century ago is making a comeback not just for our health but also our food supply.
Our first guest is Dr. Tom Patterson. He’s a researcher at the University of California San Diego and the subject of the new book, The Perfec
Evolving Rhythms
Did you know there are over 2,500 genres of music? Most of them have evolved over only the last fifty years. The rise in diversity stems from two major factors, technology and societal change. On this week’s Super Awesome Science Show, we’re going to explore this golden moment in music history with one of Canada’s most notable experts on the topic. He’s Alan Cross, the host of The Ongoing History of New Music.
We first explore the technology side by looking back at the moments that chan
What is Love?
Love has been one of humanity’s greatest mysteries. For millennia, it has been the subject of art and social science. But over the last century, we have learned so much about the biology of this emotion and how it affects us. On this week’s episode of The Super Awesome Science Show, we’re going to devote the entire show to Dr. Helen Fisher, who has been a leader in deciphering the love code. Since 1975, she has been focused on understanding this emotion. Her research papers, books, and a relatio
Everything is awesome with LEGO
From the moment LEGO was started in the 1930s, it has focused on bringing out the creative in a person while allowing them to play. Today, it is an international sensation but not just in the world of pastime entertainment. LEGO is being used a means to increase scientific knowledge and education.
We talk with one of the leaders of the LEGO education movement, Dr. Chris Rogers at Tufts University. He explains how LEGO helps kids of all ages get a head start on science and engineering. H
SASS Introduces you to: Russia Rising
“Russia Rising” is a new investigative podcast series hosted by Jeff Semple, the former Europe Bureau Chief for Global News. This series hopes to unravel the giant mystery behind Putin’s Russia with the help of those who know her best - Russian Trolls, Hackers, Putin Supporters, and even a former Russian K.G.B. agent.
Join Jeff on the journey to unravel how Russia has gone from tenuous ally, to a potential global threat.
Here’s a sneak peek from episode 2 of the series…. and while you’
Sharing Stress
Have you ever had a great day in which nothing can go wrong and then out of nowhere a stressed person enters the room and your good feelings are replaced with feelings of anxiety and nervousness? You’re not alone. We may not realize it but stress is contagious and on this week’s show, we find out how this happens.
We first start with Dr. Stephanie Preston at the University of Michigan. She has studied how our compassion, known as empathy, can be a trigger for sharing someone else’s s
Coffee Beans and Genes
Coffee is one of the world’s most beloved beverages. Long before it was made popular by the television show, Friends, it stood as the drink that brought people together. Ironically, it’s also one of the most hotly debated subjects when it comes to health and taste. On this week’s episode of the Super Awesome Science Show, we examine one of the reasons behind this lack of consensus. Genetics.
We first look at how our own genetics can alter the way we taste coffee and how it affects our h
GO GO KETO
On this week’s episode of The Super Awesome Science Show, we dig into the nature of the ketogenic diet, its history, and what good it can do for you.
There are all sorts of diets but only a few have proven to be effective at helping you lose weight. One of the most popular options that also works is the ketogenic diet. It’s known as a fat buster as it helps to melt away unwanted fat while improving your metabolic health.
We first start with Desiree Nielsen, a registered dietitian,
Disturbed Sleep
Most Canadians are getting enough sleep but statistics reveal the numbers are dropping and the quality of that rest continues to suffer. Figuring out how to improve our sleep patterns has led to a confusing environment filled with pharmaceuticals, natural health products, and even supplements of chemicals naturally found in our bodies.
On this week’s episode of The Super Awesome Science Show, we crawl under the covers of sleep science to find out what may work best to help us get some r
New Year Rehabilitation
Have you made a New Year’s Resolution? If so, how long do you think it’ll last? Most resolutions end up being a losing battle. On this week’s episode of The Super Awesome Science Show, we pledge to get to the bottom of why resolutions don’t work and how that isn’t too far off from someone trying to kick a habit.
First, we talk with Dr. Lalatendu Acharya at Purdue University. He studies consumer behaviour in health ranging from eating habits to HIV spread. He tells us that the Holiday s
Smells of the Season
We are all familiar with the sights and sounds of the Holiday Season. But what about the smells? They have an enormous impact on us and can influence how we celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
On this week’s episode of the Super Awesome Science Show, we stick our noses into the science of smelling, scientifically known as olfaction, and find out how certain scents can draw out attention, bring back memories, and even affect our buying behaviour.
We first talk with Dr. Leslie
The Blockchain Boon
Blockchain has become the latest buzzword in tech but few of us understand what it is and how it relates to us. On this week’s episode of the Super Awesome Science Show, we invest in the topic of blockchain as we hope to decode its cryptic nature so we can all profit by knowing what it is and how it may change our lives.
We start off with the basics with blockchain consultant, Olivia Lovenmark. She tells us a little bit more about the platform, explains what cryptocurrencies like bitcoi
Credence in Climate Change
Climate change is real and is becoming more accepted by the day. But there continues to be debate about whether we are contributing to the problem or are just innocent bystanders in the process.
While the arguments may appear to be heated between the two sides, a recent declaration may help to lower the volume. In a rather unprecedented move, the Vatican held a conference last year where they declared climate change to be caused in part by humans. They also called for action to reduce o
Pandemic State Of Mind
When you hear the word, pandemic, you might imagine an apocalyptic scenario in which our very existence is threatened. That might have been the case in the Middle Ages but today, pandemics are far less dangerous and more common than you think.
The most recognized is flu as it is the only pandemic in recent times to affect our country. But there are others out there and they continue to spread under the radar.
On this week’s episode of The Super Awesome Science Show, we take a look at pa
Pesty Eaters
Local exhibitions and fairs are known for their rides, games, and concerts. They are also known for introducing some pretty strange food items ranging from deep fried butter to 24 karat gold coated ice cream bars. Lately, there’s been a new kind of food to try in the form of insects.
The idea of eating bugs may seem odd or macabre but these food choices are growing in popularity and have migrated from the midway to the grocery store. This movement is being led by The Goldin family, the
Welcome to SASS
Jason Tetro, The Germ Guy, has been a researcher for decades. He has published scientific articles, hit conferences, and explored the natural world to uncover its hidden wonders. Now he's here to share those discoveries with you and a bit of SASS on the SUPER AWESOME SCIENCE SHOW!
We're going to answer all your science questions. If it ends in “ology” we’ve got it covered – chemistry and physics too.
We'll talk with experts, and share the vast knowledge that exists out there.
We guarantee it