Tumble Science Podcast for Kids

Episodes

• Pluto and the Planetary Pandemonium

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  Oct 12 2018

  It’s a scientific controversy of planetary proportions! Is Pluto a planet, or not? You decide, after we present two sides of an epic astronomy argument. Back in 2006, the International Astronomer’s Union voted on a definition of the word “planet” that excluded Pluto and other newly dubbed “dwarf planets” from planethood status. Astronomers - and everybody else - quickly chose sides. We dive deep into the debate and learn that Pluto’s not the only Space Object Formerly Known As A Planet. Then we’ll ask you to weigh in with your opinion, and see if you can find “consensus” on what should be called a planet. Featuring planetary astronomer Kirby Runyon. We have a present for your birthday!! We’ll be doing birthday shoutouts for our Patreon members, beginning next month. Want to hear a message on the podcast just for your special day? Pledge at the $5 level at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. You’ll be helping us make the show, and we also have extra audio goodies for you. Hear more from our interviews with scientists! For this episode, Kirby Runyon expands on the different types of planets, and the fascinating features you can find on each one. There’s more about planets, on our website at sciencepodcastforkids.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to Tumble and tell your friends! ...more

  Episode

• What Would Earth Be Like If Volcanoes Didn’t Exist?

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  Sep 28 2018

  A volcanologist imagines a world without volcanoes, and tells us how her recipe for homemade lava bombs might lead to discoveries about ancient volcanoes in outer space! It turns out that volcanoes do more for planets than create natural pyrotechnic displays. You’re guarenteed to be blown away by volcanologist Erika Rader’s EXTREME VOLCANO SCIENCE PROJECT. Spoiler alert: It involves a huge cauldron of molten rock, an aircannon, and a forklift. Tell Erika what YOU would do with a lava machine: Email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com with a drawing or recording, and we’ll pass your ideas on! Join our Patreon campaign to hear more from our interview with Erika, on our ad-free podcast feed: patreon.com/tumblepodcast Special thanks to Rob Griffiths for his help with this episode! Check out his podcast, Bedtime.FM and Peace Out on the Kids Listen app - kidslisten.org....more

  Episode

• The Journey to the Bat Cave

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  Sep 14 2018

  Join us on a field trip to the biggest bat colony in the world! Bracken Cave is home to 15 million Mexican free-tailed bats. It’s the largest concentration of mammals on the planet, and it’s made up of only mothers and their babies. On our visit, we’ll meet a real-life Batwoman. Jessica Dreyer is a bat biologist who is studying how bats learn to be bats. Now… TO THE BAT CAVE! To see photos from our trip, as well videos of “bat rain” and the evening “batnado,” check out our blog at sciencepodcastforkids.com/blog. We’ll also have information about how you can visit Bracken Cave in person, with Bat Conservation International. This week, our Patreon members are getting exclusive audio bonus content from our interview with Jessica! Hear her describe what it’s like to go inside the cave, as she shares tons of other stunning bat facts. Pledge today at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. You’ll also get an ad-free feed, when you sign up at just $1/month!...more

  Episode

• The Science Splash Jam! Live

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  Aug 31 2018

  This summer, Tumble went live!! and we want to share the science magic with all our listeners. In this episode, you’ll hear our favorite parts of our Back-to-School Science Splash Jam from the Scottish Rite Theater in Austin, Texas. Get ready for a sea star song written by listeners, jellyfish trivia, and amazing science questions from fans. A super huge thanks and shoutout to everyone who came to our events! If you’re curious about Tumble live events, email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com. Our guests were SaulPaul, Elizabeth McQueen, and Juli Berwald. Sara and Michael Lentz recorded the Science Splash Jam. Thanks to our sponsors: The Headwaters School, Austin Family Magazine, Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child, and Listenwise. Our kid contestants were Adele, Liesel, and Finn. Our question askers were Amery, Amara, and Leela....more

  Episode

• The Case of the Shrinking Laboratory

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  Aug 17 2018

  What if you could shrink your technology down to a size that’s 100,000 times smaller than the width of a human hair? It sounds like sci-fi, but it’s not. Romain Quidant shows us how he helped shrink an entire medical laboratory down to the size of a computer chip. The “lab on a chip” uses molecular mini-detectives to track down diseases hiding within a tiny drop of blood. We’ll find out how it works, and why a tiny particle could make a big difference for human health. To see a photo of Romain holding the lab on the chip, check out our blog at sciencepodcastforkids.com/blog. Tumble is brought to you with support from KiwiCo. KiwiCo is offering Tumble listeners the chance to try them for free - to redeem this offer and learn more about their projects for kids, visit kiwico.com/tumble. Love Tumble? Support us on Patreon! All you need to do is go to patreon.com/tumblepodcast and sign up to pledge. Listener support makes a HUGE difference in helping us make the show. We’d also love to give you a shoutout on our next episode!...more

  Episode

• The Girl Who Spoke Science

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  Aug 03 2018

  Meet 11-year-old Sarah Galvani-Townsend! She’s our first ever kid science expert. In many ways, Sarah is a regular kid who loves science. But she’s got an unusual hobby. Sarah tells us why studying dogs and rabies is one of her favorite extracurricular activities, and how she translates “science language” into “kid language.” To read Sarah’s paper and find out more about Science Journal for Kids, visit our blog at sciencepodcastforkids.org/blog. The original paper is called “One Health approach to cost-effective rabies control in India” and the lead author is Meagan C. Fitzpatrick. Tumble is brought to you with support from KiwiCo. KiwiCo is offering Tumble listeners the chance to try them for free - to redeem this offer & learn more about their projects for kids, visit kiwico.com/tumble    Love Tumble? Support us on Patreon! Go to patreon.com/tumblepodcast and pledge today. Even just a $1/month means a lot to us! We love hearing from you. Email us your questions, comments and feedback at tumblepodcast@gmail.com....more

  Episode

• The Snapdragon Hunt

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  Jul 20 2018

  It’s the tale of an epic science adventure. It’s the drama of the hunt for a dragon… a snapdragon! This isn’t the kind of dragon that breathes fire. It’s a flower! And biologists have been hunting for them every summer, in an ongoing quest to understand how species evolve and separate. We tag along with biologist Carina Baskett on her very first day of the snapdragon hunt, in the Pyrenees mountains of Spain. Join us as we get excited about “fieldwork” - one of the coolest (and most adventurous) parts of the scientific process! You can see photos from the snapdragon hunt and learn about fieldwork all over the world, on our blog. We’re doing it live! Check out Tumble’s live events coming up in August, on our website. Tumble is brought to you with help from KIND Snacks. Complete offer details are available at: https://www.kindsnacks.com/kidsoffer Our Patrons make a WORLD of difference to us! Pledge to support at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. Rewards include ad-free episodes, free educational materials, chances to appear on the show, and more....more

  Episode

• Mailbag Episode With Joe Hanson!

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  Jul 06 2018

  Joe Hanson is a scientist who hosts PBS Digital Studio’s It’s Okay to Be Smart and Hot Mess, a new YouTube show about climate change. He’s been a longtime friend of Tumble’s, so it was a no-brainer to ask him to help answer listener questions! Joe tells us why penguins can’t fly, how animals breathe underwater, what’s beyond the universe, and why our teeth get wobbly and fall out. Plus, find out what we think Tumble: Aquatic Edition would sound like! Watch some of our favorite of Joe’s videos on our website: sciencepodcastforkids.com/blog. Don’t forget, a great way to support Tumble is to pledge on Patreon. You can also tell five friends about the show! Either way, we’ll love you. We’ve got a special offer for you to try KIND Kids Bars! Go to KindSnacks.com/science and enter code SCIENCE at checkout to receive 20% off of your order of KIND Kids Bars....more

  Episode

• The Road Trip to Outer Space

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  Jun 22 2018

  Got a long trip coming up? Turn it into an adventure into outer space! Marshall’s headed out on an intergalactic journey. He’s lined up the best episodes on astronomy for your road trip! See what it’s like to spend a year on Mars, take a wild ride through the solar system, find out if it’s possible to ship Co2 off our planet, search for alien life, and investigate black holes with the world’s top black hole hunter. You’ll be there in no time when time is flying by at warp speed! When we get to 150 Patrons, Marshall will do something very silly. So if you can, please pledge today: patreon.com/tumblepodcast Hope you’re having a great summer! We’ll be back with new episodes soon....more

  Episode

• Tumble Presents: Young Ben Franklin

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  Jun 08 2018

  **Recommended for listeners age 8 and up** This week, we’re presenting a new show from our friends at Gen Z Media! It’s called Young Ben Franklin, and it’s a mystery-adventure series about the 14 year old kid who went on to become one of America’s most famous founding fathers. If you enjoy this show, you can find more like it at bestrobotever.com. Subscribe at Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts, so that you won’t miss an episode of Young Ben Franklin. The full series premiers on July 4. Independence Day! Younger listeners might want to skip this story, due to some dramatic situations and language. We’ll be back with more Tumble soon. Don’t forget, we’re in the middle of our Patreon pledge drive! Your support makes our show possible. Not kidding! If you value what we do, please consider making a donation at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. The first 10 fans to pledge will receive a Detective Dot megapack! Want another option? Review us on Apple Podcasts. It really helps other people find our show!...more

  Episode

• The Barcelona Supercomputer Adventure

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  Jun 01 2018

  This week, we’re taking you to visit one of most powerful computers in the world! It’s called MareNostrum 4, and it’s housed in a former chapel in Barcelona, Spain. We’ll find out how scientists are using supercomputers to tackle some of the world’s biggest problems. Researchers Eduard Porta and Claudia Rosas explain what it’s like to work with one of the fastest machines in the world. See photos from Lindsay’s visit to MareNostrum 4, and learn more about supercomputers on our blog. It’s the best time ever to support Tumble on Patreon! For the first ten fans who pledge $5 or more to our Patreon campaign, you’ll receive a Detective Dot megapack, along with all of our regular rewards. Check out Detective Dot here: https://www.detectivedot.org/ Then, pledge at patreon.com/tumblepodcast Don’t forget, to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! It really helps other people find out about our podcast. ...more

  Episode

• The Sleep Camp Experiment

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  May 18 2018

  You’ve never heard of a summer camp like this before. It’s a science camp, but the campers ARE the science! Imagine playing volleyball with electrode helmets, going to bed attached to sleep machines, and having scientists study popsicles made of your spit (“spitsicles”). We talk to the scientist who started Sleep Camp, a study that’s been going on for over 30 years. Join us as we learn what Sleep Camp has taught us about why sleep is so important for kids and teens. Our question from JoJo is, “Why do we need sleep?” Find out more about the science of sleep on our [blog post](http:// http://www.sciencepodcastforkids.com/single-post/2018/05/17/The-Crazy-Science-of-Sleep) about the Sleep Camp Experiment. And check out our NEW TRAVEL BLOG! Tumble Travels is written for both kids and adults. Follow our adventures on Instagram, too! This episode features music (about sleep science!) from The Pop Ups. Check out their new album, GIANTS OF SCIENCE, with songs about science and innovation. If you’re eager to gear up for summer with more great podcasts for kids, check out the Kids Listen app at app.kidslisten.org! It’s recently been approved by Common Sense Media, and you can find summer-themed episodes from great shows like Book Club for Kids and Buttons & Figs! Don’t forget - Your support on Patreon means EVERYTHING to us. Get a shoutout on the blog, receive special opportunities to be on the show, and get access to all our educational materials....more

  Episode

• What Would Happen If There Was No Moon?

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  May 04 2018

  What would happen if our Moon suddenly disappeared? Would we still have tides? It turns out that the Moon has a much bigger influence on Earth than you might think. Without the Moon, life as we know it would not exist! Rocket scientist Miquel Sureda explains what happened before the Moon existed, and how we know that the Moon is slowly moving away from us. Plus, we have a special treat for you - we made up a story about the Moon’s disappearance with our friends from What If World! For more information and resources about the science in this episode, check out our blog post. If you love Tumble, please consider pledging to our Patreon campaign. It makes a HUGE difference for us! Have you written a review on iTunes yet? This also helps more people find our show! Looking for more podcasts for kids, including What If World? Listen and discover on the Kids Listen app, a podcast listening app designed just for kids!...more

  Episode

• The Power of Pika Scientists

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  Apr 20 2018

  For Earth Day, we’re discovering how the tiny, adorable pika is helping scientists study climate change! Temperatures in their mountain habitat are getting warmer, and rain and snow isn’t as predictable as it used to be. Scientists have discovered that the number of pikas in certain areas are shrinking – or even disappearing. But some populations are doing just fine. A scientist named Pika Jo wants to find out why. An unexpected disaster leads her to a surprising discovery. To find out more about pikas and climate change, check out our blog at sciencepodcastforkids.com/blog! Has Tumble contributed something meaningful to your family? Please consider pledging to our Patreon campaign at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. It makes a huge difference in making it possible for us to do the show, and we’re planning even more awesome stuff for the future! Our Patrons are the first to know - and, you get access to all the educational materials in our teacher store! Pledge today. Want more Earth Day podcasts? Check out eco-themed episodes from our Kids Listen friends What If World, Ear Snacks, Cool Facts about Animals, Little Stories for Tiny People, and Wow in the World! Find them on the Kids Listen app at app.kidslisten.org....more

  Episode

• The Weather Balloon, the Girl Scouts, and the Unicorn

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  Apr 06 2018

  What happens when a Brownie Troop goes to a weather balloon launch? One Brownie guesses that they’ll make contact with unicorns in the sky. Atmospheric scientist Gary Morris shows us what it takes to launch the biggest balloon you’ve ever seen to the very top of Earth’s atmosphere. Along the way, we’ll learn why weather balloons are the best way to find out about air pollution. And who knows? Maybe we’ll discover unicorns, too! This story came together when a Brownie troop leader emailed Tumble to see if we could do an activity with the girls. We’re always open to new experiences, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com. Do you love what we do, and want to make sure there’s more episodes of Tumble forevermore? Support us on Patreon at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. Each pledge makes a HUGE difference to us, and we really appreciate it! Plus, you get sweet rewards - like access to our entire catalog of educational resources! To learn more about Tumble, visit our website at tumblepodcast.com. Or, you could swing by bestrobotever.com and find our podcast friends from Gen Z Media! They have great audio fiction like Mayan Crystal, The Alien Adventures of Finn Caspian, and more....more

  Episode

• Dinosaur Poop Part 2: The Coprolite Queen

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  Mar 23 2018

  This is #2 in a series on dinosaur coprolites, AKA fossilized feces! In the 1800’s, Mary Anning was known as the best fossil hunter in England. She made many great discoveries, including dinosaur poop. With help from our friend Kidosaurus and children’s science historian Melanie Keene, we dig into Mary Anning’s story and her place in the history of women in science. After you listen to this episode, check out our blog at sciencepodcastforkids.com/blog for books about Mary Anning and an amazing website where you can explore the stories of other pioneering female paleontologists. Find a new favorite and tell us why she’s awesome, at tumblepodcast@gmail.com! Make sure you listen to our first episode in the series, “Who Dung It?” featuring modern-day coprolite scientist Karen Chin. To hear more from Riley about dinosaurs, subscribe to Kidosaurus at kidosaurus.com. Or you could listen on the Kids Listen app and discover other great podcasts for kids as well! Want to support Tumble? Pledge to our Patreon campaign! It’s a huge part of how we keep the show going. Plus, you get awesome monthly rewards, like free access to everything in the teacher store when you pledge $5 a month! Go to patreon.com/tumblepodcast to pledge today.  ...more

  Episode

• Dinosaur Poop Part 1: Who Dung It?

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  Mar 09 2018

  Call it fossil feces, dinosaur dung, or preserved poo. This is the first of a two part series on dinosaur poop! We kick it off with the modern-day science of coprolites. Paleontologist Karen Chin shares how she cracked the case of a mysterious coprolite, and discovered a different dinosaur diet. STAY TUNED for the next episode in the series, about a pioneering female paleontologist and a very unusual family of scientists, who discovered that funny looking rocks were actually ancient dung. The Tumble Teacher Store is now open! Find curriculum packages, activities, graphic organizers, transcripts, and even music. Go to sciencepodcastforkids.com/materials to check it out. Want to support Tumble? Pledge to our Patreon campaign! It’s a huge part of how we keep the show going. Plus, you get awesome monthly rewards, like free access to everything in the teacher store when you pledge $5 a month! Go to patreon.com/tumblepodcast to pledge today. Oh, and here’s a new place you can find Tumble and three brand new podcasts for kids: bestrobotever.com Check out quiz show Pants on Fire, and fiction podcasts Six Minutes and The Mayan Crystal, from our partners at Gen Z!...more

  Episode

• Marshall's Mailbag: The Sequel

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  Feb 23 2018

  Return of the mailbag! The Tumble inbox is filling up with questions, and Marshall scrambles to answer them while Lindsay relaxes with a glass of lemonade. We find out why rainbows don’t fall down, why naked mole rats are naked, whether you can sneeze with your eyes open, why we have dreams, and how scientists studied tickling with a tickle robot. Want to learn more (and see what naked mole rats look like)? Visit our blog at sciencepodcastforkids.com/blog. We’re on Instagram now! Follow us at @tumblepodcast for behind-the-scenes, cool science facts, and our travels in Europe. If you have questions you’d like us to answer, send them to tumblepodcast@gmail.com! Our podcast relies on your support. When you pledge $5 on Patreon, you’ll receive free access to all the materials on our teacher store, including activities, worksheets, transcripts, and ad-free episodes! Pledge now at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. Thanks for listening, and stay tuned for more stories of science discovery....more

  Episode

• The Surprising Story of Sea Stars' Sticky Feet

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  Feb 09 2018

  “How do sea stars grip onto rocks?” That’s what listener Chloe wants to know. To find out, we take a trip to an aquarium to see sea stars’ tiny tube feet in action, and call up sea star expert Chris Mah. What we learn is a surprising story of how scientists made a big mistake when it came to studying to sea stars’ spectacular grip - and how they finally got it right. There’s some amazing science behind these starry creatures! What’s your favorite animal fact? Can you find out how scientists know it’s true? Let us know what you discover by sending us an email, drawing, or recording to tumblepodcast@gmail.com. Tumble’s Teacher Store is coming! We’re getting NGSS-aligned materials ready for your homes and classrooms! Science activities, graphic organizers, lessons, transcripts, and more will be available this month. Patrons who pledge $5 or more will have access for FREE! Pledge today at www.patreon.com/tumblepodcast, or www.sciencepodcastforkids.com/materials to visit the store. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• The Secret Senses of Plants

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  Jan 26 2018

  “Do plants feel pain?” Jude’s question leads us to stunning discoveries about what plants feel, what they hear, and even what they talk about! Biologist Heidi Appel reveals how scientists learned about plants’ inner lives, and tells us the story of how she discovered “listening” plants. You’ll never look at plants the same way again. What can YOU observe about your houseplants? How do they react to changes in light, water, or other variables? Tell us -- and send in your science questions -- at tumblepodcast@gmail.com. Want to learn more about plant communication? Check out our blog at www.sciencepodcastforkids.com. Tumble is brought to you with help from our sponsor, GoGoSqueeZ! Find these yummy, healthy snacks in the applesauce aisle. Tumble’s Teacher Store is coming! We’re getting NGSS-aligned materials ready for your homes and classrooms! Science activities, graphic organizers, lessons, transcripts, and more will be available starting February 1st. Patrons who pledge $5 or more will have access for FREE! Pledge today at www.patreon.com/tumblepodcast, or www.sciencepodcastforkids.com/materials to visit the store. Thanks for listening! ...more

  Episode

• How to Build a Robotic Eel

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  Dec 22 2017

  Meet Envirobot, a robotic eel who slithers along the surface of the water, seeking the source of water pollution. The future is here, and it's full of swimming robots! We meet members of the team behind Envirobot, Bezhad Bayat and Alessandro Crespi. They tell us what it takes to turn a swimming animal into a robot - the twists, the turns, the technology, and the math. If you could design a robot based on a swimming animal, what would it be and why? What would it do? We want to hear your ideas, and see your designs! Email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com. Check out a video of Envirobot and terrifying photos of lampreys on our blog, at sciencepodcastforkids.com! Looking for transcripts of our episodes? They're now available at http://www.sciencepodcastforkids.com/materials. They're 50% off through the New Year! Want to support Tumble and get access to ALL our educational materials, plus special opportunities to be on the show? Pledge to our Patreon campaign at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. Happy Holidays and have a great New Year to all our listeners!!...more

  Episode

• The Case of the Sparkly Mineral

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  Dec 08 2017

  "How are minerals made?" "What makes rocks sparkly?" Mary Lou and Tilly are curious about minerals, the chemical compounds that make up rocks! Get ready for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Field Museum in Chicago! Collections manager Jim Holstein opens cabinets containing some of the most exceptional minerals in the world. Find out how scientists have classified minerals for hundreds of years, and why some minerals glow in the dark. Do you have a rock collection? Or any kind of collection? How do you organize, or "classify" it? Check out photos and videos from our tour on the blog at sciencepodcastforkids.com Want to support Tumble, and hear your name on the show? Pledge on our Patreon campaign at patreon.com/tumblepodcast! We LOVE our supporters....more

  Episode

• Mission CO2 to Mars

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  Nov 24 2017

  “Could we ship Earth’s extra carbon dioxide to Mars?” Our listener Ilan has come up with a brilliant plan to stop climate change in its tracks, and make Mars a place we can live - AT THE SAME TIME. Your intrepid Tumble hosts attempt to lift his idea off the ground, with help from Czech environmental scientist Kristina Zackuciova, and NASA astrophysicist Scott Guzewich. Join us, to find out how a scientific journey starts - and whether Ilan has discovered how to save two worlds with one simple plan. Tumble is brought to you with help from Homer. Try Homer, the only learn to read method powered by your child’s interests and shown to increase early reading scores by 74%. As a Tumble fan, you’ll get two months free by visiting learnwithhomer.com/tumble. Wonderbly supports Tumble too! Get a preview of a book starring your child (great for gifts, too!) at www.wonderbly.com. Enter TUMBLE at checkout to get 15% off your order! Want to support Tumble yourself? Pledge at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. At the $5 level, we’ll shoutout your child on the show, and you’ll get access to our growing folder of educational resources - along with an AD-FREE version of the show! Are you using Apple Podcasts right now? Great news! It’s easier than ever to write a review of Tumble. Every positive reviews sends a rainbow directly into our hearts (don’t worry, it’s healthy). Check out resources on our website at sciencepodcastforkids.com, and email us YOUR questions at tumblepodcast@gmail.com...more

  Episode

• Marshall's Mailbag Episode!

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  Nov 10 2017

  It's a mail bag episode! While Lindsay is away, Marshall is going through a bunch of listener questions and answering them as best he can. Do monkeys get ice cream headaches? Why is Play-doh so salty? Listen to find out the answer to this and more in this special episode of Tumble. If you want to submit a question for Marshall & Lindsay to answer, go visit our website at http://sciencepodcastforkids.com.

  Episode

• We Ain't Afraid of No Ghosts: A Tumble Halloween

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  Oct 27 2017

  Why do people believe in ghosts? And can science ever prove that they don’t exist? We take a road trip with Dennis Waskul, a sociologist who traveled to graveyards and “haunted” houses to hear ghost stories, from the people who lived them. He wanted to find out why 50% of Americans believe in ghosts. What he discovered might spook you - in a good way! (Note: This episode is NOT scary.)

  Episode

• BONUS EPISODE: Kidcast Sampler!

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  Oct 25 2017

  We often talk about how there are so many great kid podcasts out there to discover. Now, we're bringing those podcasts directly to you, in this sampler pack of a bonus episode! Find these podcasts and more at applepodcasts.com/kids You'll hear some of our favorite podcasts for kids. We really believe that listening to podcasts for kids with our son has brought something truly special into our lives, that we couldn't get with any other type of media. We've heard from listeners that Tumble has turned trips to the park into dinosaur fossil hunts, fort-building into a submarine adventure, and boring car rides into a time for interesting conversation. What have podcasts done for your family? Tell us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com. Enjoy!...more

  Episode

• Why Words?! How We Learn Language

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  Oct 20 2017

  Children are the best language learners, says psycholinguist Evan Kidd. But how do children learn languages so easily, and why is learning another language so hard when you're an adult? It's something we've been wondering since we moved to Barcelona, Spain this summer. Evan Kidd shares his quest to put together the complex puzzle of how humans learn language. What he's discovered might change the way you think about your own native tongue. To join us on our adventures in Barcelona, plus get access to an ad-free version of the show and educational materials, pledge at patreon.com/tumblepodcast Listen to Tumble on the Kids Listen app! app.kidslisten.org If you have any questions about science that you'd like Lindsay and Marshall to help answer, go to our website - www.sciencepodcastforkids.com - and use the contact form. While you're there, you can also find a blog with lots of great resources about this episode....more

  Episode

• The Electric Detectives

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  Oct 06 2017

  Where does electricity come from? That's what listener Ati wants to know. Lindsay and Marshall get on the case of a massive blackout that plunged 50 million people into darkness Scientist and engineer Mike Legatt helps us solve the mystery. We made a cool electric grid scavenger hunt for this episode that you can download for free on our Patreon Page! Subscribe at the $5 level (or higher!) to find more great activities like this one. You can also listen to Tumble on the BRAND NEW Kids Listen App! If you have any questions about science that you'd like Lindsay and Marshall to help answer, go to our website - www.sciencepodcastforkids.com - and use the contact form. While you're there, you can also find a blog with lots of great resources about this episode....more

  Episode

• The Solar System’s Wild Ride

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  Sep 22 2017

  Do solar systems move? That’s what Levan wants to know. NASA astronomer Stefanie Milam shares how technology has allowed humans to see the course our solar system has charted through space – and how a powerful new telescope will widen our view even more. Want to learn more, and see photos of the James Webb Space Telescope? Check out our blog at sciencepodcastforkids.com. Help us take Tumble to the next level (outer space?)! Support the podcast you love at on our Patreon campaign at patreon.com/tumblepodcast.  ...more

  Episode

• The Magic Memory Molecule

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  Sep 08 2017

  How does our brain remember things? Neuroscientist Andre Fenton found that question has no easy answers. Andre has spent years experimenting with PKMZeta, a tiny molecule he believes is the key to forming memories. But what if he’s wrong? This is a personal story of the scientific process, and the bumps along the journey that lead to knowledge. Welcome back to Season 3 of Tumble! We're so excited to be back with all new episodes - from Barcelona, Spain! To kick it off right, we're doing a Patreon pledge drive to get to 100 Patrons! You can donate any amount to vote on where we'll go in Barcelona and what we'll share with you on our Patreon blog. To pledge, go to patreon.com/tumblepodcast. Send your questions, drawings, and recordings to tumblepodcast@gmail.com...more

  Episode

• Season 3 Starts September 8!

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  Aug 21 2017

  Tumble will be back with all new episodes this fall! Make sure you're subscribed to Tumble to get the first episode on September 8. This season, expect more great stories about science discovery, from around the world! Thanks to listeners Kinnari, Ash, Liesel, Caroline, and Rosemary for helping us record our message. Have a science question? Want to send us a drawing? Know of a scientist we should interview? Email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com. To support the show, go to patreon.com/tumblepodcast and pledge! Your donation helps make Tumble possible....more

  Episode

• The Science of Poop with Mary Roach

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  Jun 16 2017

  Everybody poops. But why? To find out, science writer Mary Roach takes us on a journey into the alimentary canal - that's the tube that runs from our mouth to our rectum. Along the way, we learn about pooping in space, and how someone else's poop might one day save your life! Have you been looking for an easy way to find more great podcasts for kids like Tumble? Or maybe you want a place for your kids to listen and discover podcasts on their own. We have great news for you! With Kids Listen, we’ve made the first ever listening app for kids at app.kidslisten.org. Go there and you’ll find all kinds of awesome shows by some of our friends like Brains On, Stories Podcast, and NPR’s new podcast for kids, Wow in the World. Check it out! Thanks to everyone who listened this season! Make sure to STAY SUBSCRIBED so you can get updates from us over the summer - especially on our journey to Barcelona! We're already getting started on episodes for the fall. Send us your science questions, your drawings and recordings! Do you live in Europe? Do you know of any cool scientists and science going on that we should check out? Let us know! We're excited to explore! As always, leave us a review on iTunes if you like the show. Email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com, and check out our blog at sciencepodcastforkids.com. To support the show and get educational materials as well as an ad-free version of the show, pledge at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• The Call of the Antarctic Dinosaur with Julia Clarke

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  Jun 02 2017

  Dinosaurs didn’t roar. What?! Paleontologist Julia Clarke has been uncovering clues to how dinosaurs sounded, in ancient bird fossils from Antarctica. She shares the story of her groundbreaking fossil find that revealed the surprising sounds of the dinosaur world! Come on an expedition to Antarctica and into Julia’s lab on her quest for discovery. Now is the time to send us your science questions! Record your name, age, and your question. Tell us what you think the answer is, and how scientists might find out! Then email it to tumblepodcast@gmail.com. Want an ad-free version of Tumble? It’s only $1 each month. Pledge on Patreon to get access to this special podcast feed, including Marshall’s original music. Let us know how you use Tumble. Send us your questions and drawings! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• The Quest of the Alien Hunter with Seth Shostak

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  May 19 2017

  Are we alone in the universe, or are there other life forms out there? That's what Daniel, a listener from New Zealand, wants to know. Scientists have been searching for the answer with a surprising tool: radio. But this isn't any old radio. Seth Shostak, senior astronomer at the SETI Institute, shares the story of how the search for intelligent life got started, and where it's headed. Are you a teacher or homeschooling parent? Tell us how you use Tumble! Email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com. We love hearing from you! Want an ad-free version of Tumble? It’s only $1 each month. Pledge on Patreon to get access to this special podcast feed, including Marshall’s original music. Let us know how you use Tumble. Send us your questions and drawings! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• The Sign of the Ninja Virus with Jasdave Chahal and Omar Khan

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  May 05 2017

  Brothers Ian, Sam, and Eli want to know, “How do vaccines keep our bodies healthy?” We meet two scientists, Omar Khan and Jasdave Chahal, who have teamed up to tackle the world’s most dangerous diseases with a new technique for developing vaccines. They tell the story of how they came together in a quest to battle biological “ninjas” that want to invade our bodies and make us sick. Are you a teacher or homeschooling parent? Tell us how you use Tumble! Email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com. We love hearing from you! Want an ad-free version of Tumble? It’s only $1 each month. Pledge on Patreon to get access to this special podcast feed, including Marshall’s original music. Let us know how you use Tumble. Send us your questions and drawings! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• The Skull of the Ancient Primate with Chris Kirk

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  Apr 21 2017

  Who is the oldest primate, and is it our great-great-great grandfather? Listener Elena's question takes us into a laboratory chock full of fossils, and brings us back to the impact that killed most of the dinosaurs. Anthropologist Chris Kirk introduces us to our very ancient - and very tiny - ancestors. Visit our blog at tumblepodcast.com to see photos of Rooneyia and Mahgarita, as well as a tour of the Vertebrate Paleontology Lab! We have resources to get started with your own fossil hunt. If you've been inspired to fossil hunt, let us know what you found! Are you a teacher or homeschooling parent? Tell us how you use Tumble! Email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com. We love hearing from you! Want an ad-free version of Tumble? It’s only $1 each month. Pledge on Patreon to get access to this special podcast feed, including Marshall’s original music. Let us know how you use Tumble. Send us your questions and drawings! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• The Puzzle of the Flipping Cats with Greg Gbur

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  Apr 07 2017

  Wonder why a cat always lands on its feet? It's a question that stumped scientists for over a hundred years. Some suspected that mischievous cats were breaking the laws of physics! Was it the catnip? Or was it a mystery of physics? Physicist Greg Gbur helps us break the case... with the first ever cat video. Check out the original flipping cat photos and film, as well as a video of cats weightless in zero gravity (!!) on our blog at sciencepodcastforkids.com. You'll also find visual explanations from Greg Gbur and YouTube channel Smarter Every Day. Want an ad-free version of Tumble? It’s only $1 each month. Pledge on Patreon to get access to this special podcast feed, including Marshall’s original music. Let us know how you use Tumble. Send us your questions and drawings! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on iTunes or Stitcher. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• The Case of the Whale Shark Party with Rafael de la Parra

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  Mar 24 2017

  Imagine this: You’re in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico with a big fish on the line. But suddenly, you’re surrounded by whale sharks, the biggest fish in the world. What do you do?! If you’re a scientist, you get curious. Marine biologist Rafael de la Parra tells us how and why he got a headcount of the biggest whale shark party ever seen. We adopted a whale shark! Send your suggestions for MXA-130’s new name to tumblepodcast@gmail.com. Check out our blog to see photos of her, find out about her favorite hangs and hobbies, and learn how to adopt your own whale shark (with none of the hassle of living with one), at sciencepodcastforkids.com. Want an ad-free version of Tumble? It’s only $1 each month. Pledge on Patreon to get access to this special podcast feed, including Marshall’s original music. Don’t forget to share the magic of podcasts with someone you know. Tell us what you suggested by tagging @tumblecast on Twitter, and use the hashtag TRYPOD. For more kids podcasts, check out kidslisten.org/members. Let us know how you use Tumble. Send us your questions and drawings! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on iTunes or Stitcher. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• A Year on Mars with Sheyna Gifford

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  Mar 10 2017

  What would you bring on a trip to Mars? That’s a question Sheyna Gifford had to ask herself when she packed to live on Mars for a year. Wait, what?! We find out about a NASA experiment on top of a volcano that’s getting astronauts prepared for a real-life mission to Mars. Learn how to apply for a trip to Mars - in sim or in space - on our blog at tumblepodcast.com This month, we are asking listeners to recommend podcasts to friends who have not yet discovered them! For #trypod, check out kidslisten.org/members for plenty of great podcasts for kids! For an ad-free version of the podcast, educational materials, a Tumble t-shirt, and a shoutout on the show, support us at patreon.com/tumblepodcast Let us know how you use Tumble. Send us your questions and drawings! Email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on iTunes or Stitcher. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• The People of the Snow with Kelly Elder

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  Feb 24 2017

  The People of the Snow with Kelly Elder Why does it snow, where does it snow, and why are snowflakes not the same size or shape? We jump into a pile of snow questions, and find a very different kind of science in the snowy Arctic. Kelly Elder, a snow hydrologist, tells the story of how scientists work with the Inuit people to understand how snow is changing in a warming world. More information about this episode on our blog at tumblepodcast.com For an ad-free version of the podcast, educational materials, a Tumble t-shirt, and a shoutout on the show, support us at patreon.com/tumblepodcast Let us know how you use Tumble. Send us your questions and drawings! Email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on iTunes or Stitcher. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• The Secret Life of Your Shower with Noah Fierer

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  Feb 10 2017

  Something is living in your showerhead. Scientists need your help to figure out what it is, and why it’s there. Biologist Noah Fierer is enlisting people around the country to search out the tiny, microscopic life in showers. Find out what happens when Lindsay and Marshall sign up as citizen scientists, and turn their bathroom into a lab. To find out more about the Showerhead Microbiome Project, visit http://robdunnlab.com/projects/showerheads For more citizen science projects you can participate in, check out https://scistarter.com More information about this episode on our blog at tumblepodcast.com For educational materials, support us at patreon.com/tumblepodcast or email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com We want your questions and drawings! What do you think lives in your showerhead? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on iTunes or Stitcher. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• The Tower of the Vomiting Robot with Anna Rothschild

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  Jan 27 2017

  We dive into the gross side of science with Anna Rothschild, host of the PBS/NOVA series Gross Science! Anna tells us how a robot named Vomiting Larry helped scientists discover how to stop the spread of a potentially deadly sickness. Plus, fourth graders tell us what they think is gross, and we learn why talking about poop can be important for your health. What do YOU think is gross? What does Vomiting Larry look like? Send your questions and drawings to tumblepodcast@gmail.com, or use our contact form on our website! Check out our blog post on this episode for kids, and a special lesson plan for teachers from Ms. Gustafson on our blog at www.sciencepodcastforkids.com. Join us on Patreon for more educational materials, music downloads, and extras from our interviews! www.patreon.com/tumblepodcast Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on iTunes or Stitcher. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• Journey to the Center of the Earth with Ta-Shana Taylor

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  Jan 13 2017

  What is the Earth made of? That’s the question at the core (pun intended!) of this episode. Geologist Ta-Shana Taylor shares the fascinating story behind a decades-long quest to drill into the Earth. You’ll be wanting to “Get Down to the Moho” after listening! Thanks to listeners Brody and Liam for sending in their questions. This is our first episode of Tumble, Season 2! We’ve got much more in store, including educational resources! Check out our blog at tumblepodcast.com and Patreon at patreon.com/tumblepodcast for additional information and a complete list of resources to stoke your curiosity! Like Tumble? Tell the world! Leave us a review on iTunes, Stitcher, or share on social media. Your enthusiasm means EVERYTHING to us - and helps more people discover our podcast! And don’t forget to fill out our partner survey for Wondery at wondery.com/survey. In this episode, we mentioned that we love Stories Podcast. Check them out, and our other friendcasts, at kidslisten.org. It’s an organization we started to advocate for more high quality children’s audio! #kidslisten...more

  Episode

• Season 2 Coming Soon!

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  Jan 06 2017

  It's almost here! We've got brand new episodes of Tumble starting January 13. Here's a quick sample of what's to come. Subscribe now on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts. Have an Android? Try our partner Wondery's new app on Google Play!

  Episode

• The Voyage of the Ocean Trash with Jenni Brandon [ENCORE]

  Listen

  Dec 16 2016

  Our friends Andrew & Polly from the podcast Ear Snacks introduce their favorite Tumble episode. Listener Ilya asks if there's a way to remove all the trash from the ocean. Scientist Jenni Brandon helps us investigate the Great Pacific Garbage Patch - a vast, swirling soup of trash, twice the size of Texas. Stay tuned to the end of the episode to hear how listeners suggested solving this huge environmental problem. Tumble t-shirts are now available in kid's, men's, and women's sizes. Get yours at sciencepodcastforkids.com/shop! Is Tumble a part of your daily routine? Show your love by pledging to our Patreon at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. Lastly, we could use your help with an audience survey for our partner, Wondery! Go to wondery.com/survey and answer a couple quick questions about your listening habits. We'll be forever grateful to your anonymous contribution!...more

  Episode

• The Secrets of Bugs and Bats [BONUS EPISODE]

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  Dec 09 2016

  In this special bonus episode, some of our favorite guest scientists answer listener questions! It’s like a Tumble reunion! Learn about the bugs you can find near your home, how ants let each other know about food finds, and if bats fly at night so they can eat more bugs. Thanks to Paloma, Liesel, and Bella for your questions! We still have a few “encore shows” left to play while we get ready for the new season. You might have noticed we’ve had listeners introduce their favorite shows. Next week, that could be you! Send us a recording telling us your favorite episode and why you like it, to tumblepodcast@gmail.com. Or upload your recording to the "Contact" form on our website at www.sciencepodcastforkids.com. Tumble has a few holiday shopping tips for you. First, don't procrastinate. Second, don't go to the mall. It is crazy there. Instead, go to seedling.com and order their fantastic activity kits, then use the code TUMBLE at checkout for $10 off a $30 purchase! So much better than going to the mall. Third, get a brand new Tumble tee, sent to you by Marshall's mom, at our website for only $19.50! sciencepodcastforkids.com/shop As always, we appreciate reviews on iTunes and emails! We read and respond to every single one. Lastly, we need your help with an audience survey for our partner, Wondery! Go to wondery.com/survey and answer a couple quick questions about your listening habits. We'll be forever grateful to your anonymous contribution!...more

  Episode

• The Case of the Invisibility Cloak with Andrea Alu [ENCORE]

  Listen

  Dec 02 2016

  Invisibility cloaks: Not just for wizards? Listener Quinn introduces his favorite Tumble episode, where we explore the very real science behind invisibility! Tumble t-shirts are now available in kid's, men's, and women's sizes. Get yours at sciencepodcastforkids.com/shop! Is Tumble a part of your daily routine? Show your love by pledging to our Patreon at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. Lastly, we could use your help with an audience survey for our partner, Wondery! Go to wondery.com/survey and answer a couple quick questions about your listening habits. We'll be forever grateful to your anonymous contribution!...more

  Episode

• The Quest for the Hidden Planets with Joel Green [ENCORE]

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  Nov 18 2016

  Our listener Griffin picked an exciting tale of outer space for this week's episode! Astronomer Joel Green explains how scientists discover and photograph planets outside our solar system. Have a few spare minutes? Fill out our listener survey at wondery.com/survey. Ask us a question, listen to more episodes, and donate at tumblepodcast.com. Subscribe to Tumble Science Podcast for Kids and review on iTunes. Follow on Facebook and Twitter. Join our Patreon at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• The Puzzle of the Friendly Dog with Mia Cobb and Krista McPherson [ENCORE]

  Listen

  Nov 04 2016

  What makes dogs loyal? This question comes from Amalia, a sixth grade student. We ask two different dog scientists, and their answers will surprise you. We learn about an experiment that tests dogs’ loyalty - or does it? Get ready to get inside the head of a dog! We want to hear about your dogs! Ask us a question, listen to more episodes, and donate at tumblepodcast.com. Subscribe to Tumble Science Podcast for Kids and review on iTunes. Follow on Facebook and Twitter. Thanks for listening!

  Episode

• The Laboratory of the Haunted House with Margee Kerr

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  Oct 31 2016

  Why do people get scared and how? We ask Dr. Margee Kerr, a scientist who studies the science of fear. She once set up a basement lab in a Halloween haunted house to understand why people sign up to get scared. She found out that going to a house of horror is actually a lot like doing yoga! Find out why, and how to scare a scientist. Correction: On this episode, we referred to the woman in Sebastin's recording as his mom. She is his step-mom. Ask us a question, listen to more episodes, and donate at tumblepodcast.com. Subscribe to Tumble Science Podcast for Kids and review on iTunes. Follow on Facebook and Twitter. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• The Hunt for Black Holes with Karl Gebhardt [ENCORE]

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  Oct 21 2016

  A fan favorite episode, now with new black hole discoveries! We answer our first listener question, how do black holes work? We talk to Dr. Karl Gebhardt, who has helped discover over half of the black holes that astronomers have ever found. Light cannot escape from a black hole, which means that they are impossible to see. We find out the secret to finding black holes, and how what happens inside might explain mysteries of gravity. Astronomy adventures are ahead in this episode! Music in this episode is by Secret Agent 23 Skidoo from his newest album, Infinity Plus One. Ask us a question, listen to more episodes, and donate at tumblepodcast.com. Subscribe to Tumble Science Podcast for Kids and review on iTunes. Follow on Facebook and Twitter. Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• How to Interview a Scientist [BONUS EPISODE]

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  Oct 19 2016

  Send us your interviews with scientists, and they might end up on our show! In this special bonus episode, we'll teach you how to interview a scientist. It's easier than you might think, and it's super fun. You might learn something that changes your life, or at least your outlook on science! Plus, our listener Vida finds out for us if you can send a robot into a black hole. Check out our blog on www.tumblepodcast.com for step-by-step instructions on how to interview a scientist, with expanded tips and resources. Send your interviews to us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com Don't forget to tell your friends about Tumble, write a review on iTunes, and support us on patreon.com/tumblepodcast...more

  Episode

• The Tale of the Bacteria Farmer with Sarah Richardson [ENCORE]

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  Oct 07 2016

  Sarah Richardson, a biologist, dreams of being of a farmer. Instead of tending to barns full of cows making milk, she'll have petri dishes full of bacteria. We're taking a break until 2017 to create more stories of science discovery. But we're not going away! Far from it. We'll be hard at work dreaming and making new awesome stuff for you. Stay in touch with us by Facebook, Twitter, and tumblepodcast.com, where you can send us questions, comments, drawings, and videos!  This is a great time to show your support for our new season by pledging on Patreon: patreon.com/tumblepodcast Subscribe & leave a review on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tumble-podcast/id984771479 Thanks for listening!...more

  Episode

• The Journey to the Deepest Part of the Ocean with Gaelin Rosenwaks [ENCORE]

  Listen

  Sep 23 2016

  Where is the deepest part of the ocean, and have we been there in person? Ocean explorer Gaelin Rosenwaks answers with an amazing story of the first explorers to dive to a mysterious place called Challenger Deep. It's filled with awesome adventure, incredible risk, and awe-inspiring reward. This is a journey that changed the way we understand the ocean. We're working on a bunch of exciting new stuff for you this week, so we are re-playing one of our favorite episodes.  Love Tumble? Subscribe on iTunes! itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-t…cast/id984771479 and write us a review. Support us on Patreon! www.patreon.com/tumblepodcast And visit us on our website,www.sciencepodcastforkids.com...more

  Episode

• The Charge of the Everlasting Battery with Mya Le Thai

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  Sep 12 2016

  Why do batteries - even rechargeable ones - die? What if there was a battery that lasted forever? Mya Le Thai, a young scientist, was sick of recharging her phone. So she set out make make a longer lasting battery. What she created was better than she had ever thought possible - a battery that won’t die. It lasts 100 times longer than the typical phone battery. Find out what goes on inside a battery, and how Mya came to her eureka moment. Tell us what you would do with a battery that lasts forever! Email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com Subscribe on iTunes! itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tumble-podcast/id984771479 Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/tumblepodcast And visit us on our website, www.sciencepodcastforkids.com...more

  Episode

• The Tale of How Ants Conquered the Earth with Corrie Moreau

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  Aug 26 2016

  Why are there so many different species of ants? That’s what entomologist Corrie Moreau wants to know. There are more species of ants than there are species of mammals and birds - combined! Her quest starts in the jungle and ends in a lab, where she unravels the story of ants conquering the earth. Plus, listeners tell us what THEY know about ants! Take Corrie’s advice: Get outside and play with bugs! Then tell us about it. What did you see and observe? Take photos and make drawings. Email them to us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com Subscribe on iTunes! itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tumble-podcast/id984771479 Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/tumblepodcast And visit us on our website, www.sciencepodcastforkids.com Photo from Wikipedia...more

  Episode

• The Meow of the Misunderstood Cat with Brains On

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  Aug 13 2016

  Are cats evil, or just misunderstood? That's what our friends at Brains On debate for a panel of kid judges. Find out what they decide in this special guest episode! Plus, Lindsay and Marshall weigh in on their conclusions.  What do you want to know about cats? Let us know on our Facebook or Twitter pages, or email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com. Support Tumble on Patreon, and you can have your name read on the show (and get more great stuff!) Pledge at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. Subscribe on iTunes and leave us a review! itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tumble-podcast/id984771479...more

  Episode

• The Code of the Flashing Firefly with Sara Lewis

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  Jul 29 2016

  Why do fireflies flash their lights on and off, on and off? That’s what four curious kids want to know. Biologist Sara Lewis has studied fireflies for decades, and she’s cracked the code of their spectacular light displays. She explains why fireflies light up at night with a story of an undercover experiment. Sara tells us how she “spoke firefly” and learned that female fireflies are surprisingly hard to please. To learn more about fireflies, see Sara’s website and book at www.silentsparks.com. We're proud that Tumble is a free podcast! But we need your support to keep it going and growing. We’ve launched a Patreon campaign to offer you awesome rewards in exchange for a monthly pledge! Find out what our next episode is about in advance, get notified of opportunities to be on the show, receive exclusive educational content and so much more. Find the link on our website, www.tumblepodcast.com. Subscribe and review Tumble on iTunes, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter. We want to hear from you at tumblepodcast@gmail.com. Firefly photo by Terry Priest used with permission from Sara Lewis....more

  Episode

• The Tale of Darwin and the Beagle with Áki Jarl Láruson

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  Jul 15 2016

  We have a short and sweet summer episode for you! Charles Darwin is known as the father of evolution, but he got his start as a naturalist as a young man. He took an ambitious five year journey around the year, studying thousands of species of plants and animals. Many years after his return to England, he wrote The Origin of Species, one of the most famous and influential scientific books ever written.  Áki Jarl Láruson tells the story, at a meeting of evolutionary biologists in Austin, Texas.   Learn more at tumblepodcast.com   Have you answered our listener survey? Help shape the future of Tumble at bit.ly/tumblesurvey    Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcatcher! Like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter!...more

  Episode

• The Voyage of the Ocean Trash with Jenni Brandon

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  Jul 01 2016

  The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is a vast, swirling soup of trash, twice the size of Texas. Can we ever clean it up? That’s what 8 year old Ila wants to know. She lives in Hawaii and likes to pick up trash whenever she goes to the beach. She lives closer to the garbage patch than most of us. We talk to Jenni Brandon, a researcher who has been to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch - a place where few people will visit, but where we all have an impact. She tells us how surreal it is to sail through trash, why the garbage patch exists, and what scientists are doing about it. To find out more, visit tumblepodcast.com Marine debris photo courtesy of Jenni Brandon. ...more

  Episode

• The Case of the Invisibility Cloak with Andrea Alu

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  Jun 17 2016

  What are invisibility cloaks made of, and when can we buy them in gift shops? That's right, invisibility cloaks are not just for wizards anymore. We get into the very real science of invisibility with Dr. Andrea Alu. Dr. Alu is one of the leading scientists working on "cloaking." We learn how scientists are playing with the laws of physics and optics to turn fantasy into scientific reality.  Have a question for Tumble? Send us a recording with your name, age, question, what you think the answer is, and how scientists might find out. Email it to tumblepodcast@gmail.com! If you love Tumble, support us by writing a review on iTunes or donating on our website. For more about Kids Listen, a new awesome organization for kids podcasts, visit kidslisten.org.  ...more

  Episode

• The Journey to the Deepest Part of the Ocean with Gaelin Rosenwaks

  Listen

  Jun 01 2016

  Where is the deepest part of the ocean, and have we been there in person? Ocean explorer Gaelin Rosenwaks answers with an amazing story of the first explorers to dive to a mysterious place called Challenger Deep. It's filled with awesome adventure, incredible risk, and awe-inspiring reward. This is a journey that changed the way we understand the ocean. Love Tumble? Leave us a review on iTunes! Want to be on the show? Send us a question! Record yourself asking the question, and tell us what you think the answer is and how scientists might find the answer. Would you support Tumble? Donate on our website, www.tumblepodcast.com.    ...more

  Episode

• The Hunt for Black Holes with Karl Gebhardt

  Listen

  May 18 2016

  How do black holes work? And how do we learn about them, if they're impossible to see? We talk to Dr. Karl Gebhardt, who has helped discover over half of the black holes that astronomers have ever found. Light cannot escape from a black hole, which means that they are impossible to see. We find out the secret to finding black holes, and how what happens inside might explain mysteries of gravity. Astronomy adventures are ahead in this episode!    Music in this episode is by Secret Agent 23 Skidoo from his upcoming album, Infinity Plus One.   Ask us a question, listen to more episodes, and donate at tumblepodcast.com. Subscribe to Tumble Science Podcast for Kids and review on iTunes. Follow on Facebook and Twitter. Thanks for listening! ...more

  Episode

• The Mystery of When Brains and Sports Collide with Kiki Sanford

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  May 04 2016

  What happens to your brain when you get a concussion? It's common to get hit in the head when you play rough or risky sports. Everyone knows a concussion makes you woozy for a while. But the impacts of repeated concussions can last much longer. Learn how American football players have helped scientists unravel a mystery that could change the way that sports are played. With Dr. Kiki Sanford, host of the wonderful podcast This Week in Science. We want to see your ideas about how to keep your brain safe while playing sports or walking down the street! Email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com. Enjoy the show? Rate us on iTunes, find us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter....more

  Episode

• The Adventure of The Explorers Club with Richard Garriott

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  Apr 13 2016

  We take you inside the famed Explorers Club in New York City, where we meet a real explorer! Richard Garriott de Cayeux has been around the world and into space on scientific expeditions. He shares the stories of famous explorers and his own family expeditions – beginning with his astronaut dad. Plus, he explains on how to find a real meteorite near your house! If you want to see some of the amazing collections of Explorer’s Club history, watch video tours on our blog at http://www.tumblepodcast.com We’re looking for your questions for ocean explorer Gaelin Rosenwaks. Send a recording of your question to tumblepodcast@gmail.com by April 26, 2016. Love our show? Leave us a review on iTunes! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tumble-podcast/id984771479...more

  Episode

• The Quest for the Edge of the Universe with Katie Mack

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  Mar 30 2016

  Does the universe go on forever? Or does it have an edge? Jack and Kate have a few ideas about how to find out, involving a GoPro and a rocket. We ask astrophysicist Katie Mack if the universe is infinite and if a robot explorer will ever send us a selfie from the very edge of its expansion. Her answer will boggle your mind. Visit tumblepodcast.com to learn more! Subscribe on iTunes at https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tumble-podcast/id984771479, and leave us a review. Music by Marshall Escamilla and Podington Bear. Photo of a distant galaxy cluster courtesy of NASA, ESA, CXC, NRAO/AUI/NSF, STScI, and R. van Weeren (Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics)....more

  Episode

• The Puzzle of the Friendly Dog with Mia Cobb and Krista Macpherson

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  Mar 17 2016

  What makes dogs loyal? This question comes from Amalia, a sixth grade student. We ask two different dog scientists, and their answers will surprise you. We learn about an experiment that tests dogs’ loyalty - or does it? Get ready to get inside the head of a dog! We want to hear about your dogs! Email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com, visit us at tumblepodcast.com, and like us on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Mia Cobb.

  Episode

• The Cave of the Upside Down Bat with Micaela Jemison

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  Mar 02 2016

  Why do bats hang upside down? That's what fifth graders living in the Bat Capital of the World - Austin, Texas - want to know. We visit Micaela Jemison at the world headquarters of Bat Conservation International to figure out why bats have such weird sleep habits. Plus, why would bats walk on treadmills? They're mysterious creatures. This is the first in a series of shows featuring kids' questions. We want to hear what you think! Email us at tumblepodcast@gmail.com, message us on Facebook, and tweet us on Twitter. Send us your bat t-shirt designs and we'll share them!...more

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• The Tale of the Bacteria Farmer with Sarah Richardson

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  Feb 10 2016

  Sarah Richardson, a biologist, dreams of being of a farmer. Instead of tending to barns full of cows making milk, she'll have petri dishes full of bacteria. They'll be making a brand new kind of fuel that could replace gas we put in our cars. But just like the first human to milk a cow, Sarah has a difficult job to do. In this episode, she explains how she's trying to convince bacteria to make the things we need - but will they listen? Learn more about Sarah's story at www.tumblepodcast.com, and sign up for our weekly kid-friendly podcast recommendation newsletter. Subscribe on iTunes and leave us a review. Want to ask a question on Tumble? Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, or email and ask away. Photo credit: Microbe World...more

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• The World Without Parasites with Carl Zimmer

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  Jan 06 2016

  What would the world be like if there were no parasites? You might actually miss those mind-controlling blood suckers. Science writer Carl Zimmer tells us how scientists are discovering the hidden importance of parasites' dirty work.

  Episode

• [UPDATE] The Night of the Decoy Spider with Joe Hanson

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  Dec 16 2015

  [Now, with new information on decoy spider research!] One dark night in the Amazon, three guys stumble face first into a new discovery - and capture it all on video. Joe Hanson, from It's Okay to Be Smart, tells the story. Music in this episode by Broke for Free.

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• The Secret of Dark Energy with Jeff Silverman

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  Nov 16 2015

  No one knows what dark energy is or why it exists. So how did astronomers discover the mysterious force that's pulling the universe apart? Astronomer Jeff Silverman explains one of the universe's biggest mysteries. Learn more at www.tumblepodcast.com! Subscribe on iTunes and leave us a review. Music by Noveller and YACHT, courtesy of the Free Music Archive.

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• The Tale of The Brain Scoop with Emily Graslie

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  Oct 19 2015

  Emily Graslie, host of the YouTube science show The Brain Scoop, explains how an encounter with a dead mouse at a natural history museum steered her toward one of the most important discoveries of her life. (This episode contains references to preserving dead animals.) Music in this episode is by Podington Bear. Brain Scoop clips used with permission

  Episode

• The Case of the Living Dinosaurs with Brian Switek

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  Sep 03 2015

  Dinosaurs never went extinct. They're living in our backyards. How did scientists discover that birds are secretly dinosaurs? Science writer Brian Switek tells us how some suspicious fuzz on a farmer's fossil find cracked open the biggest case in dinosaur paleontology. Music in this episode by Podington Bear, Noveller, and Johnny the Ripper, courtesy of the Free Music Archive.

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• The Mystery of the Exploding Star with Jeffrey Silverman

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  Jul 16 2015

  A mystery that began with an unusual star spotted in the year 1054 took almost a thousand years to solve. In this episode, supernova expert Jeffrey Silverman explains how astronomers cracked the case and discovered what happened in the ancient night sky. Hint: It involves a massive explosion. Music by Podington Bear and Broke For Free.

  Episode

• The Tale Of The Giant Toad with Sheril Kirshenbaum

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  May 14 2015

  When a tiny beetle starts destroying farmers' fields in Australia, scientists decide to bring in a giant toad to bite back. But they never predicted what would happen next. In this episode, science writer Sheril Kirshenbaum tells a story of science gone wild. Music in this episode is by Podington Bear.

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• The Night Of The Decoy Spider with Joe Hanson

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  Apr 26 2015

  What does the moment of discovery sound like? In this episode, Joe Hanson of It's Okay to Be Smart shares the story of a fellow YouTuber who stumbles upon an incredible new species while filming in the Peruvian rainforest. Music in this episode is by Broke For Free. Video still is from from Smarter Every Day.

  Episode

• The Quest for the Hidden Planets with Dr. Joel Green

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  Apr 10 2015

  Science fiction is full of adventures to distant planets outside our solar system. But it wasn't until 20 years ago that astronomers were able to confirm that they exist. Dr. Joel Green explains how astronomers discover and photograph planets in galaxies far, far away. Music in this episode is by Podington Bear.

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• The Case of the Missing Brains with Dr. Rachel Berman

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  Feb 24 2015

  One man's very, very unfortunate accident made him one of the most famous patients of all time. Dr. Rachel Berman shares the story of how this man helped scientists figure out what the brain does. Music in this episode is by Podington Bear. Photo of Phineas Gage from the collection of Jack and Beverly Wilgus.

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• The Mystery of the Barton Springs Salamander with Dr. Hayley Gillespie

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  Feb 24 2015

  Dr. Hayley Gillespie, an ecologist, tells us how she cracked the case of the Barton Springs Salamander's mysterious meals. Music by YACHT, courtesy of the Free Music Archive and Creative Commons. Photo courtesy of Dr. Hayley Gillespie.

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