Psychology Podcasts

Science Vs

Spotify Studios

Science Vs is the ultimate reality check for your curiosity. If you have ever found yourself caught between a trending headline and the actual facts, this show is your new go-to resource. Hosted by Wendy Zuckerman, the podcast acts as a tireless investigator, pitting popular myths and hot-button topics against the cold, hard data. Whether it is peeling back the layers of our modern obsession with lunar exploration, questioning the addictive design of our smartphones, or diving into the hilariously awkward history of sex research, the show refuses to take anything at face value. The magic of Science Vs lies in its ability to take complex, often taboo or controversial subjects and break them down through rigorous scientific inquiry. You will hear from expert researchers who walk you through the evidence, helping you separate the hype from the reality. The format is consistently engaging, blending humor with a deep respect for the scientific process. Expect to leave each episode with a clearer understanding of the world, armed with actionable insights—like why switching your phone to grayscale might actually change your life—and a newfound appreciation for how evidence can transform our perspective on everything from the mysteries of the universe to the intimacies of human behavior. It is smart, irreverent, and always committed to finding out what is true and what is just noise.

The Idiot

Serial Productions & The New York Times

What begins as a seemingly absurd story about an annoying relative quickly spirals into a harrowing exploration of family trauma, denial, and the dark reality of criminal intent. In The Idiot, acclaimed author and journalist M. Gessen turns their sharp, investigative lens inward to dismantle the mystery of their cousin, Alan. For years, Alan was dismissed as little more than a pompous, self-styled international businessman—a fool, perhaps, but certainly not a threat. That perception shattered the moment Alan was arrested for allegedly orchestrating a hit on his own ex-wife. Through a narrative that is both deeply personal and unflinchingly analytical, Gessen traces the ripple effects of this betrayal through the fractured lives of their extended family. The series moves beyond the headlines to examine the persistent, boundary-blurring behavior of enablers and the agonizing struggle of victims attempting to forge a stable future in the shadow of a predator. As Gessen navigates the difficult space between seeking truth and protecting the vulnerable, they offer a sobering meditation on the limits of forgiveness. This is not just a true-crime story; it is a profound examination of the masks people wear, the devastation caused by those who refuse to accept reality, and the heavy price of searching for closure in a family unit deeply wounded by one man’s violent descent.