Best Science Podcasts 2024

From neuroscience to physics to biology, these are the best science podcasts for curious minds in 2024.

Best Overall: Huberman Lab

Why It's #1

Andrew Huberman translates cutting-edge neuroscience into actionable protocols. Every episode is a masterclass in how science works and how to apply it.

Format: 60-90 minute deep dives into specific topics

Topics: Sleep, focus, exercise, nutrition, mental health

Best For: People who want practical applications of science

Why People Love It

• Zero fluff — every minute is packed with useful information
• Protocols you can implement immediately
• Huberman explains complex science in clear language
• Free, evidence-based health optimization

Best for Physics & Space: StarTalk Radio

Hosted by Neil deGrasse Tyson

The most entertaining science podcast. Tyson makes astrophysics accessible and fun.

Format: 45-60 minute interviews + Q&A

Topics: Space, physics, cosmology, science in pop culture

Best For: Space nerds and casual science fans alike

What Makes It Special

• Tyson's enthusiasm is infectious
• Often features comedians as co-hosts (keeps it fun)
• Breaks down complex physics for general audiences
• Covers science in movies, TV, and current events

Best for General Science: Radiolab

The Gold Standard for Science Storytelling

Radiolab has been the best science storytelling podcast for 15+ years. Incredible production, fascinating topics.

Format: 30-60 minute narrative-style episodes

Topics: Biology, physics, philosophy, weird science stories

Best For: People who love NPR-style storytelling

Why It's Different

• Sound design is incredible (feels like a movie)
• Explores the "why" and philosophical implications
• Topics you'd never think to wonder about
• Perfect blend of entertainment and education

Best for Health Science: The Peter Attia Drive

Deep Dives into Longevity & Health

Dr. Peter Attia interviews top researchers on living longer and better. More technical than Huberman, but incredibly valuable.

Format: 90-180 minute expert interviews

Topics: Longevity, metabolic health, exercise science, preventive medicine

Best For: People serious about health optimization

What to Expect

• Very technical (Attia doesn't dumb things down)
• Long-form deep dives (often 2+ hours)
• World-class experts (Nobel Prize winners, top MDs)
• Focus on practical application and protocols

Best for Short Science Bites: Science Vs

Myth-Busting with Data

Wendy Zukerman tackles popular claims and tests them against science. Fun, fast-paced, and informative.

Format: 30-45 minute investigations

Topics: Health fads, controversial topics, science myths

Best For: People who want science they can apply to daily life

Recent Topics

• Do supplements actually work?
• Is intermittent fasting legit?
• The science of happiness
• Are seed oils really bad for you?

Best for AI & Future Tech: Lex Fridman Podcast

Conversations with Leading Researchers

While not exclusively science, Lex interviews the world's top AI researchers, physicists, and biologists.

Format: 2-4 hour long-form conversations

Topics: AI, robotics, physics, biology, consciousness

Best For: Deep thinkers who want intellectual exploration

Best for Quick Daily Science: Science Friday

Weekly Science News Roundup

Ira Flatow covers the week's top science stories. Great for staying current on research.

Format: 60 minute weekly show

Topics: Current science news across all fields

Best For: Keeping up with science in the news

How to Choose the Right Science Podcast

If You Want Practical Health Science

Start with: Huberman Lab

Most actionable science content available. Every episode gives you protocols to improve sleep, focus, or health.

If You Want Entertainment + Learning

Start with: Radiolab or StarTalk

Both are incredibly entertaining while teaching you real science.

If You're Serious About Longevity

Start with: The Peter Attia Drive

Technical but worth it if you're serious about living longer and healthier.

If You Want Quick Science Fixes

Start with: Science Vs

30-45 minute episodes, myth-busting, immediately applicable.

Science Podcast Listening Strategy

For Beginners

• Start with Radiolab (entertaining + accessible)
• Add Huberman Lab for health topics you care about
• Try StarTalk for space/physics content

For Intermediate

• Huberman Lab weekly (core health science)
• Science Vs for myth-busting
• Lex Fridman when interesting scientists appear

For Advanced

• Peter Attia Drive (deep health science)
• Lex Fridman (AI, physics, cutting edge)
• Huberman Lab (protocols and applications)

Common Mistakes

Starting Too Technical

Don't jump into Peter Attia if you're new to science podcasts. Start with Huberman or Radiolab.

Not Using Summaries

Science podcasts are long. Use episode summaries to decide which episodes are worth your time.

Listening at 1x Speed

Most science podcasts are great at 1.2-1.5x speed (especially Huberman).

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