What The If?

Dive into the microscopic world of tardigrades as we explore the astonishing resilience of these tiny creatures. From the depths of space to the highest peaks and the hottest springs, tardigrades have proven themselves as the ultimate survivors. Join us as we discuss their unique abilities, including possibly surviving in the vacuum of space, withstanding extreme temperatures, and even the potential of tardigrade-inspired human resilience. Imagine a world where humans possess the hardiness of tardigrades; what would life be like if we could endure the harshest environments or travel through space without a care? Let's embark on this thought experiment together and uncover the secrets of these fascinating microorganisms. Listen now and be amazed by the tiny but mighty tardigrade! --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-inventi

Dive into a world where the chalkboard meets the hologram in this riveting episode of "What The IF"! Join Philip, Matt, and Gaby as they venture into the classrooms of the future, where holographic teachers reign supreme. Imagine Albert Einstein teaching physics, and Marie Curie guiding you through chemistry, all from the comfort of your classroom, or even your living room. But it's not all quantum leaps and bounds; our hosts ponder the quirks of remote learning, from the intimacy of tea and cookies with holograms to the peculiar notion of holographic open-heart surgery in space. Can technology replace the warmth of a human touch or the serendipity of a hallway conversation? Will universities turn into Netflix-like services, offering courses by celebrity scientists? And, of course, the existential question: will AI eventually render human educators obsolete, or will the traditional classroom survive the digital onslaught? Buckle up for a hilarious journey through the possibilities and pitfalls of virtual educ

In our latest episode, we're diving into a wild world where electric shocks can lead to new genes! Picture this: zebrafish larvae in a tank, minding their own business, when suddenly, zapped by electric eels, they start glowing green. It's all about natural electroporation – sounds fancy, right? We chat about how this bizarre experiment opens doors to understanding genetic flexibility and the randomness of gene transfer. Imagine the evolutionary twists this could cause! Join us as we mix hard science with a pinch of humor, pondering over the quirky ways nature might play with genetics. Tune in for a blend of facts and fun speculations! --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

We've got a special treat for you! Usually reserved exclusively for our Patreon supporters, we're sharing a "Beyond The If" segment with everyone this time. We had a blast reflecting on our recent episode with C. Renee James. Our chat wandered from discussing the fascinating world of drumming, the intriguing connections between science and music, to sharing personal stories about our own musical journeys. It's these light-hearted, behind-the-scenes conversations that remind us how much fun science can be.

Join us for an enthralling podcast episode where hosts Matt, Gaby, and Philip, along with guest C. Renée James, dive into the captivating world of gravitational waves. We explore the concept of 'hearing' these space-time ripples, originating from pulsars and black hole mergers. James enlightens us on the nuances of these waves, from their cosmic chirps to their detection by LIGO. This humorous and curious conversation not only demystifies complex physics but also provides a unique 'soundtrack' to the cosmos, making it a must-listen for science enthusiasts and casual learners alike. Learn more about Renée's book, "Things That Go Bump in the Universe: How Astronomers Decode Cosmic Chaos" here: https://www.press.jhu.edu/books/authors/c-renee-james --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here:

Dive into an electrifying journey of mind-bending possibilities with Matt, Gaby, and Philip on the latest episode of "What The If." This rollercoaster of intellectual exploration was sparked by a fascinating suggestion from Dean Victoria Rosner of the Gallatin School at NYU. Imagine a world where mind swaps are not just a sci-fi fantasy but a mind-twisting reality. Delve into the intriguing intricacies and ethical dilemmas posed by such an extraordinary concept. The trio navigates through a labyrinth of questions like the nature of identity, the relationship between mind and body, and the potential societal chaos in a world where mind-swapping is possible. Whether you're a science aficionado or simply love pondering the 'what-ifs' of our universe, this episode is a thrilling blend of humor, science, and imaginative speculation that will leave you questioning the very essence of self! --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be

We've got a special treat for you! Usually reserved exclusively for our Patreon supporters, we're sharing a "Beyond The If" segment with everyone this time.

Welcome to a holiday special episode of "What The If?" where we merge the festive spirit with the wonders of science!

Hey, "What The IF" fans! This is Philip, and together with Gaby, we've brewed up a sleep-deprived adventure in our latest episode. We dive into the world of micro naps, inspired by chinstrap penguins and their thousand daily snoozes. Imagine a world where humans, just like these penguins, nod off hundreds of times a day. How would our jobs, cars, and even sports adapt? From vigilant parenting to the evolution of traffic laws, we explore the hilarious and intriguing consequences of this sleep-pattern switch. Buckle up for a journey through a world punctuated by mini-naps and discover the surprisingly profound implications of these brief slumbers! --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gab

Hey there, science enthusiasts and curious minds! It's Gaby and Philip here from What The IF, and we've got a hilariously explosive episode for you!

Hi there, Gaby and Philip here from the "What The If" podcast! In our latest episode, we're slicing into the sensational world of CRISPR - that revolutionary genetic editing tool. Join us as we dissect the New York Times headline about using CRISPR to make chickens resistant to bird flu. We delve into the science behind CRISPR, its potential to change the genetic makeup of organisms, and its limitations. Our conversation ventures into the ethical dilemmas of gene editing, the future of fighting diseases, and the ever-evolving battle between humans and viruses. This episode is a rollercoaster ride of science, ethics, and humor that's perfect for both the science-savvy and the casually curious. Tune in for a CRISPR clear understanding of one of the most groundbreaking technologies in genetics! --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know

Hey there, science enthusiasts and curious minds! We're inviting you on a cosmic journey with us in our latest podcast episode. We're diving into the mysterious realm of asteroids and uncovering the secrets of their composition. Ever wondered how scientists figure out what these space rocks are made of without taking a trip to space? Join us as we discuss the intriguing methods used to measure the density of celestial bodies like Jupiter and asteroids, revealing their hidden natures. But that's not all - we've stumbled upon an enigmatic asteroid named Polyhymnia, whose density is off the charts, surpassing any known metal! How is that possible, you ask? Tune in to our show as we unravel the massive mysteries of Polyhymnia. --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t

Our newest listener, Suzanne, asks, "What The IF cars didn't have horns?" It's a question we all ask on those days when the traffic jam outside our window seems to have no sense of decency! Gaby, Matt and Philip imagine the world-changing ramifications of quiet cars and an even quieter planet. Utopia or Dystopia? Tune in and find out, and shhhhh.... this is a fun one! --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

Hey there, science aficionados! It's Gaby, Matt, and Philip here. Ever wondered what would happen if nature's playbook was rewritten, where "survival of the fittest" strictly meant "survival of the strongest"? Dive into a world where raw power dictates evolution, and the scales of nature tip in favor of pure brawn. From peacocks that can flip tigers to other jaw-dropping power shifts in the animal kingdom, we explore the thrilling and often hilarious implications of a muscle-bound ecosystem. Join us on this exhilarating journey as we challenge, laugh, and marvel at the unexpected twists of nature! --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

Hey there, fellow science enthusiasts! It's Philip, Gaby, and Matt, back with another electrifying episode. Thanks to a stellar challenge from our Super Iffer, Dan from Colorado, we're diving into the tantalizing question: Can we make Venus habitable? Together, we embark on an epic Venutian journey, weaving together the chemistry of sulfuric acid and table sugar, the unexpected utility of garbage, and the delightful twist of martinis. Are you ready to reimagine a planet with us? Dive in, and let's explore the cosmos, one "IF" at a time! --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

Hey there, science enthusiasts! Gaby and Philip here, and we're about to take you on a flight of fancy you won't forget. Ever imagined a world where bees don't just buzz around but actually have the power to control the weather?

Hold onto your seats as Philip and Matt take you on a space adventure like no other! This time, we're asking the zany question: What if we took a random scoop of Earth and sent it to another celestial body? Get ready to delve into the intricacies of the OSIRIS-REx mission to Bennu and what it might mean to do something similar—but in reverse. Trust us; you don't want to miss this cosmic rollercoaster! --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

Hey there, science enthusiasts! It's Philip, Matt, and Gaby back at it with another riveting episode of "What The IF?". Ever imagined aliens stranded on Earth, akin to Mark Watney from "The Martian"? Dive deep with us into this whimsical scenario. What if they're just like us, on a cosmic road trip, only to face the misfortune of a "flat tire"? We'll explore the adventures, misadventures, and the sheer hilarity of extraterrestrial explorers. And of course, there are mummies! (Oh, did we mention there are puns? Matt's got centuries of them!) Join us in this roller-coaster ride through space, time, and the vast corridors of "What If?" scenarios. --- Find out more about Gaby's brand new science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-inventi

Hey folks, it's Matt, Gaby, and Philip here with a brand new episode that's all about peering into the unseen — a deep dive into the world of X-rays! Ever wondered how those eerie skeletal images at the doctor's office come to be? We've got you covered. And we're not stopping at the medical uses; we're cranking it up a notch to explore X-ray vision as if it were a superpower. That's right, we're blending hard science with pure imagination, all while keeping the conversation as light as a photon. So grab your lab coat or your favorite comfy chair—this episode's got something for everyone! --- Find out more about Gaby's brand new science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Pa

In this week's episode, "MUON Madness!", Matt and I dive into the enigmatic world of muons. If you're scratching your head wondering what muons are, you're not alone. But by the end of this episode, you'll be as fascinated by them as we are. Muons are more than just subatomic particles; they're potential game-changers in the realm of physics. Matt breaks down why these tiny particles are drawing so much attention from the scientific community. Think of them as the unsung heroes that could unlock new layers of understanding about our universe. So grab your headphones and tune in. If you're intrigued by the mysteries of the universe, this episode is for you. We explore some of the biggest questions in science, and trust me, you won't want to miss this deep dive into the world of muons! --- Find out more about Gaby's upcoming science fiction short story publication, coming soon! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be pre-ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-m