Unbiased Science

In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome board certified allergist Dr. Farah Khan to explore the complex world of food allergies and sensitivities. The scientists clarify the important distinctions between food allergies, intolerances, and sensitivities while addressing common misconceptions about food sensitivity testing. Dr. Khan discusses the latest evidence-based treatments for food allergies and examines factors that influence ...

In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Christina Madison to explore the vital yet underutilized role of pharmacists in the healthcare system. The scientists discuss how pharmacists can significantly improve healthcare access and patient outcomes when empowered to practice at the full scope of their training. Dr. Madison examines the barriers preventing pharmacists from fulfilling their potential as healthcare providers, emphas...

In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Neil Goldenberg to explore the unique challenges and complexities of conducting pediatric clinical trials. The scientists examine the necessity of multi-center studies, ethical considerations specific to research involving children, and the critical physiological differences between pediatric and adult populations that require distinct research approaches. Dr. Goldenberg shares valuable i...

In this episode, Jess welcomes Dr. Liz Marnik and Dr. Irini Hadjisavva to explore the multifaceted nature of inflammation and its impact on health. The scientists distinguish between beneficial and harmful inflammatory responses while addressing the challenges of accurately measuring inflammation in clinical settings. They examine common misconceptions surrounding gut health, including the pitfalls of direct-to-consumer microbiome ...

In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Kate Wallis and Dr. Diana Montoya-Williams to explore the essential topic of health equity in scientific research. The scientists examine the critical importance of rigorous research design and the transformative role of community engagement in conducting meaningful health studies. They address common methodological mistakes that compromise research validity, particularly focusing on how ...

In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Michael Falk, a pediatric emergency medicine physician, to address critical public health and pediatric care topics. The scientists examine the concerning rise in measles cases while exploring common parental concerns about fever and febrile seizures in children. Dr. Falk shares valuable insights from his emergency room experience, providing practical guidance on when families should seek...

In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Jennifer Reich, a sociologist and researcher at the University of Colorado Denver, to examine vaccine hesitancy and recent changes to the U.S. vaccine schedule. The scientists explore the cultural and structural factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy, including American society's emphasis on personal responsibility and the intense pressure parents face in making health decisions for th...

In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Lucky Sekhon, a reproductive endocrinologist, to explore the complex landscape of fertility and reproductive health. The scientists examine recent advancements in IVF technology while addressing the importance of understanding both male and female fertility factors. Dr. Sekhon debunks common fertility myths and discusses how lifestyle choices and mental health significantly impact reprodu...

In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Ashely Alker, an emergency medicine physician and author of '99 Ways to Die,' to discuss critical public health challenges. The scientists explore the intersection of vaccination, misinformation, and preventable deaths, drawing on Dr. Alker's clinical experiences and research. They examine the powerful role of storytelling in medical communication and how narrative can help convey complex...

In this episode, Jess and Sarah discuss the current state of bird flu, particularly H5N1, with expert Dr. Chad Costley. They explore the implications of recent CDC updates, the evolution of viruses, and the innovative development of intranasal vaccines. The conversation highlights the importance of addressing vaccine misinformation and the potential for a universal flu vaccine, emphasizing the need for continued public health effor...

In this episode, Jess and special guest co-host Dr. Elana Pearl Ben-Joseph welcome Dr. Susan Kressly, President of the American Academy of Pediatrics, for an in-depth discussion about the future of pediatric healthcare. The scientists explore the urgent need to redesign healthcare systems to prioritize prevention and wellness rather than reactive treatment. Dr. Kressly shares valuable insights on building trust between pediatrician...

On this episode of the pod, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Ashley Lerman, a pediatric dentist, to explore the contentious topic of fluoride in public health. The scientists examine both the benefits and risks of fluoride use, particularly its critical role in preventing cavities and supporting oral health in children. Dr. Lerman provides expert insights into recent public debates surrounding water fluoridation while discussing hydroxya...

While we're taking a Thanksgiving holiday break this week, we’re excited to share a special episode of Nice Genes! from our friends at Genome BC. 

Our very own Jess joins Dr. Kaylee Byers as they dive into the fascinating world of wastewater surveillance. Along the way, they enlist a seasoned “poo detective,” Dr. Natalie Prystajecky, who wades through some wastewater 101, and how sewage can tip us off to disease outbreaks before sy...

In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Joe Schwarcz, a renowned chemist and science communicator, to explore a range of current scientific topics. The scientists discuss a recent infant formula recall and the FDA's removal of black box warnings from estrogen products, providing context for these regulatory decisions. Dr. Schwarcz addresses the complexities of nutrition research, debunking common misconceptions about superfoods...

In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Jerome Adams, former US Surgeon General, to discuss critical public health challenges facing the nation. The scientists explore the complex issues of vaccine hesitancy and health misinformation, examining how declining trust in federal health institutions has shaped public health outcomes. Dr. Adams emphasizes the importance of empathetic approaches when addressing parental vaccine concer...

In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Jomana Musmar to examine the critical and growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The scientists explore alarming global statistics and the far-reaching implications of AMR for public health systems worldwide. Dr. Musmar emphasizes the urgent need for coordinated international responses, improved diagnostic capabilities, and enhanced patient advocacy in addressing this challenge...

In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Seth Berkley, a leading public health expert, to examine pressing global health security challenges. The scientists explore the concerning resurgence of preventable diseases and the critical role of vaccination programs in protecting populations. Dr. Berkley shares insights on lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing persistent issues of vaccine inequity and hesitancy across...

In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome pediatrician Dr. Diane Arnaout to explore the challenges of modern parenting in an era of information overload. The scientists examine how parents navigate conflicting advice and widespread misinformation about infant health and safety. Dr. Arnaout addresses the nuanced realities of infant feeding, providing evidence-based perspectives on both breastfeeding and formula feeding while challengi...

In this episode, Jess and Sarah welcome Dr. Yasmin Mohseni to discuss the recent Nobel Prize in Medicine awarded for research on regulatory T cells (T-Regs). The conversation explores the significance of T-Regs in immunology, their role in autoimmunity and organ transplantation, and the challenges they present in cancer treatment. Dr. Mohseni shares insights into the future of T-Reg research and the potential for immunotherapy to c...