Taboo Science

When someone in your family comes out as trans, what do you actually do? Turns out "I love you, I believe you" goes a long way—but it's also way more complicated than that. In this episode, we're exploring why parents have the hardest time with transition, why aunts and grandmothers often step up when parents can't, and whether families who reject ever come back around (most do!). We'll hear from parents about those pivotal coming-out moments and the fears that kept them up at night, break down why rejection usually isn't sudden and why extended family tends to be mo...

In this bonus episode, Ashley sits down with Oliver Haimson, associate professor at the University of Michigan's School of Information and author of Trans Technologies. They explore how mainstream technology often excludes trans people—from face filter apps designed for cisgender amusement to healthcare systems that force patients to become DIY experts. Haimson reveals why trans people are simultaneously more tech-savvy and more skeptical of AI than the general population, and discusses how online communities provide lifelines for isolated trans people in rural areas. The conversation tackles the tension between scrappy, community-built solutions and the burden of maintaining them, while hi...

Here's a wild statistic: nearly a quarter of trans people in the U.S. avoid going to the doctor specifically because they expect to be disrespected. And honestly? They're probably right. In this episode of Taboo Science, we're pulling back the curtain on a healthcare system that requires trans patients to prove they're "really trans," charges thousands of dollars for basic care, and somehow graduates doctors who've never learned how to treat trans bodies. You'll hear from sociologist stef shuster about the folklore of trans medicine that doctors still believe, psychologist Stephanie Budge about the critical difference between over-emphasizing and...

It's Thanksgiving here in the US, so we're re-running one of the most popular Taboo Science episodes of all time. We'll be back in two weeks with an episode about trans healthcare access!

In this episode, we challenge the common perceptions of attraction and explore the complexities of asexuality. Sociology PhD candidate Canton Weiner shares invaluable insights from his research while Sarah Costello, co-host of the podcast "Sounds Fake, But Okay," opens up about her personal experience being aro-ace, or aromantic asexual. We examine the split attraction model and shed light on various types of attraction, delve into...

What if the government declared you don't exist? In 2025, that's exactly what happened to nonbinary people—but they're not going anywhere. This episode breaks down what nonbinary actually means (hint: it's not "between man and woman"), why they/them pronouns are harder for our brains to process, and how some nonbinary people use hormones to craft their perfect gender recipe. With help from psychologist Dr. Em Matsuno and our sensitivity reader Newt Schottelkotte, we're exploring everything from microdosing testosterone to why misgendering is the default for nonbinary folks—along with the benefits to the journey of gender discovery. Whether you're nonb...

The right says doctors are mutilating children. The left says nothing permanent is happening. They're both oversimplifying, but they're not equally wrong.

Meet Maya, who started transitioning at 13 with puberty blockers, then hormones, then surgery at 16. Now 25 and thriving, she walks us through what actually happened—and why she says it saved her life. We also talk to pediatrician Dr. Michelle Forcier, who breaks down the real medical process. We're busting the "most trans kids change their minds" myth with actual research, covering what puberty blockers really do, why some trans kids hate being on them, and the qu...

Another podcast Taboo Science listeners may enjoy: Sing For Science!

Sing for Science is a science-and-music podcast where musicians sit down with scientists to explore the scientific ideas hidden in their most iconic songs. Listen to JD from Korn talk about “Dead Bodies Everywhere” with a mortuary-science expert, Sia explore one of her breakup ballads with an attachment-theory psychologist, and many, many more. Created and hosted by New York musician Matt Whyte, the show seeks to uncover connections wherever they may exist and build bridges between seemingly disparate voices, styles, and walks of life. Sing For Science is made...

For decades, doctors tried to psychoanalyze trans people out of being trans. Spoiler: it didn't work. This episode dives into the medical reality of gender transition—from how hormones actually work at the cellular level to the emotional rollercoaster of a second puberty. You'll learn what estrogen and testosterone really do to the body, what bottom growth actually means, and how modern surgery can create everything from boobs to fully functional penises with hydraulic erections. We cover the psychological shifts, the physical changes, the hilarious terminology trans people have coined, and why medical transition isn't about "fixing" anyone—it's about lett...

Got a rainbow sticker? Follow trans creators? Have trans friends? Cool. But if you're like most people—even the well-meaning ones—you probably know just enough about trans people to be dangerous. In this episode, we're dismantling the "born in the wrong body" narrative and exploring what being trans actually means. With help from University of Victoria transgender studies chair Dr. Aaron Devor, paleontologist Riley Black, PhD student Hibby Thach, and comedian Charlie James, we're breaking down sex vs. gender vs. gender expression, debunking the "social contagion" myth, and explaining why asking "but have you had The Surgery?" is never okay...

When it comes to transgender issues, most of us are working with incomplete information—and that's a problem when real people's rights hang in the balance. This season, we're exploring what it actually means to be trans in America today, from the science of gender identity to the daily realities of healthcare, relationships, and family. With the help of researchers crunching the numbers and trans people sharing their stories, we'll tackle the questions you might be curious about but wouldn't know how to ask, without the political noise—just honest conversations about human experience. 

The first episode of Trans...

Still working on Season 5 (Trans Science!). In the meantime, go to https://patreon.com/tabooscience to support the show—and get updates and behind-the-scenes tidbits as I work.

Connect with the show:
Join the Patreon: https://patreon.com/tabooscienceLeave me a voice memo: https://podline.fm/tabooscienceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tabooscienceYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tabooscienceWebsite: https://www.tabooscience.show/ Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/taboo-science/id1533606473

To find out next season's theme and be entered to win a $50 Amazon(?) gift card, fill out the Taboo Science listener survey here: https://bit.ly/43gcMAh

Connect with the show: 

Leave me a voice memo: https://podline.fm/tabooscience

Newsletter: https://www.tabooscience.show/newsletter

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tabooscience 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tabooscience 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/tabooscience 

Website: https://www.tabooscience.show/ 

Leave a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/taboo-science/id1533606473

CRAMPED is an investigative podcast that answers the question "Why are so many people with uteruses in unexplained & untreated pain?"Listen to the entire season here: https://pod.link/1778101696

Connect with the show:
Join the Patreon: https://patreon.com/tabooscienceLeave me a voice memo: https://podline.fm/tabooscienceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tabooscienceYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tabooscienceWebsite: https://www.tabooscience.show/ Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/taboo-science/id1533606473

You requested and I delivered: I'm answering your Philias questions on the podcast. With the help of interviewer and podcast industry extraordinaire Arielle Nissenblatt, learn about the most controversial episodes, fascinating facts that didn't make it into the show, how I got people to talk about this stuff, and whether my mom listens (she absolutely does). Resources from Arielle:Earbuds Podcast Collective: https://earbuds.audio/ Twitter: https://x.com/arithisandthatThreads: https://www.threads.net/@ariellethisandthat
See important links and a transcript here: https://www.tabooscience.show/048-qa/Need music for a project? Use my Epidemic Sound referral link: https...

Ever wondered why some people have a thing for feet? In this final Philias episode, we're flying feet first into foot fetishes. Social psychologist Dr. Justin Lehmiller breaks down the origins of fetishes (and the truth to that "crossed wires in the brain" factoid), while writer and "Educatrix" Tina Horn gives us the lowdown on why feet can be such a turn-on. We also step into the cultural aspects of foot fascination and debunk some common misconceptions. Whether you're a foot fanatic yourself or just interested in what makes people tick, this episode will shed light on a often misunderstood...

Spellbound and Gagged is a podcast about all things that fascinate, unsettle, and disgust. It's back from hiatus with an episode all about the sex cult NASA doesn't want you to know about. Subscribe here: https://episodes.fm/1653440593In other news: Ashley is planning a final episode where she's interviewed all about how she makes Taboo Science, the most controversial episodes this season, and other exciting things. Do you have questions you want to hear answered? Email her at ashley@tabooscience.show and you might hear them on the podcast.

Connect with the show:
Join the Patreon...

Consider today's episode a sampler platter of unconventional kinks. We're talking exhibitionism, financial domination, wet and messy fun, fat fetishes, lactation fascination, golden showers, and even the fantasy world of vore. Don't worry, we're keeping it classy (well, as classy as you can when discussing people who get off on being peed on). Whether you're a seasoned kinkster or vanilla as they come, this episode is guaranteed to teach you something fascinating about human desire. Just don't blame me if you suddenly develop an urge to splosh around in some baked beans.See citations and a transcript here: https://www...

You've definitely wondered why some grown adults like to wear diapers—so let's get into it. In today's episode, we rip off the velcro to understand the world of of ABDL (Adult Baby/Diaper Lovers) and uncover the diverse desires and expressions within this often misunderstood community. From the psychological and emotional aspects to the truly prolific amount of gear options, we explore what draws people to this kink and how it can be a source of comfort, coping, and even healing. With the help of researcher B. Terrance Grey, The Usual Bet podcast hosts and age players Sophie & Chloe, an...

Get ready to learn about the underground and frequently misunderstood world of zoophilia. With the help of paraphilia researcher Alexandra Zidenberg and hosts of the zoophile podcast Zooier Than Thou, we'll unravel what it really means to be attracted to animals. We'll learn what it is that attracts "zoos" to non-human animals, explore the hot-button issue of animal consent, wrestle with the ethics of bestiality, understand the incredible diversity within the zoophile community itself, and hear about the immense challenges zoophiles face in a society that's quick to judge what they don't understand. Tune in for an ultra-taboo episode that...

"Cuck" is way more than an internet insult. In this episode of Taboo Science, we're stepping out and diving in to cuckolding, the real-life kink and lifestyle all about the thrill of your partner sleeping with someone else. Join us as we chat with clinical psychologist Dr. David Ley and popular cuckolding podcaster Venus Cuckoldress, who shed light on the psychological quirks and deep emotional connections in this often misunderstood practice. We're also breaking down how it all plays into the complicated dynamics of race, power, and gender. If you're curious to understand a taboo that's reshaping how some people...

Fox News recoils at the idea of pup play—but we're looking closer. In this episode of Taboo Science, we dive into the fascinating subculture of humans who enjoy roleplaying as puppies. We'll explore the origins of this kink, from post-WWII leather culture to the rise of online pup communities, and learn what draws people to don a pup hood and bark. Kink researcher Dr. Liam Wignall and sex educator and pup play enthusiast Pup Amp share insights on the gear, the headspace, and the joys and challenges of being a pup. We also tackle the stigma and misconceptions surrounding th...

The furry fandom gets a bad rap. But on this episode, we're digging beneath the stereotypes to uncover the truth about this misunderstood community. We'll chat with furry researcher Dr. Courtney Plante along with Riley Black, a science writer and a furry herself, to explore what the furry culture is really all about, from the artistry of fursuits to the appeal of fursonas. And yes, we'll go there—investigating whether being a furry is actually a fetish (spoiler alert: for most, it's not, but for the others, we'll explore why). So put your preconceptions aside and get ready to learn wh...

Whips, chains, and... legal pads? In this episode of Taboo Science, we dive deep into the world of BDSM to explore its long history, the science behind subspace, the submissive rich guy stereotype, and why aftercare is essential for everyone (even vanilla folks!). With help from paraphilia researcher Dr. Christian Joyal, the Ask a Sub podcast's Lina Dune, and the Loving BDSM podcast's Kayla Lords and John Brownstone, we're debunking misconceptions and shedding light on the reality of safe, consensual BDSM practices. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just curious about the lifestyle, this episode is a must-listen. Hey, it's...

It's here! The premiere episode of Taboo Science's new miniseries "Philias": an exploration into the science of kinks and fetishes. In this 101 episode, we learn the difference between a kink, fetish, paraphilia, and paraphilic disorder; we'll take a tour of the many, many kinds of kink that exist; and we'll find out what scientists know about where these desires come from—and what they don't know. With insights from renowned paraphilia researcher Christian Joyal and pornstar/internet celebrity/kink researcher Aella, we'll dismantle society's narrow definitions of "normal" sex and shed light on humanity's boundless sexual creativity. Whether you're a se...

Philias is a new miniseries from Taboo Science about the quirky, colorful world of kinks and fetishes. The first episode drops on March 21 — hit the follow/subscribe button in your podcast app of choice to make sure you get it. Citation for the first sentence: https://doi.org/10.1080/00224499.2016.1139034 Connect with the show: Newsletter: https://www.tabooscience.show/newsletter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tabooscience  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tabooscience  Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/tabooscience  Website: https://www.tabooscience.show/  Have you been binging the show in anticipation of the new season? Leave a review and rating here: https://podcast...

Think necrophilia is just creepy morticians and serial killers? Think again. With the help of psychologist Dr. Victoria Hartmann and neuroscientist Jens Foell, this rerun episode explores the wide spectrum of death and dying fetishes, from Disney movies to consensual roleplay. Dive into Dr. Hartmann’s research on members of online necrophilia communities, and examine how necrophilic acts after murders often aren’t sexually motivated. The conversation covers the fuzzy legal lines around necrophilia, creating ethical erotic horror films, and finding self-acceptance. If you want to confront taboos with empathy, this frank discussion brings humanity to the complicated reality behind necr...

Beauty and the Beast. Twilight. The Shape of Water. What do these stories have in common? Humans and monsters getting down and dirty. This episode explores the surprising psychology behind "monsterf*ckers" — people attracted to creatures like vampires, werewolves, and tentacled beasts. Hear from researcher Ella Gallego about her study on monstrous desire, which reveals how and why women and LGBTQ+ people are particularly entranced by these inhuman love interests. We’ll trace the history of monster erotica through the medieval church’s preoccupation with demon sex, the horny throughline of vampire movies, and the incredibly surprising history of tentacle porn...

We've all heard the arguments against animal testing: it's cruel, it's unethical. But you may not know the dirty truth: it doesn't even work most of the time. This week on Taboo Science, we dive deep into the animal testing controversy. We talk to researchers and neuroscientists Dr. Katherine Roe and Dr. Emily Trunnell from PETA’s Science Advancement and Outreach Division about unethical experiments and flawed disease models. While scientists all over the world still rely on animal data, new technology like organs on chips and AI models offer a lot of promise. Tune in to hear what’s bein...

We're back between episodes with a quick feed drop! Taboo Science will return next week.How to Do the Pot is a fun weekly show helping you dabble in weed — and feel confident about cannabis for health, well-being, and for fun! Episodes of How to Do the Pot share stories from women who have turned to cannabis for stress, sleep, pain relief, or better sex. If you’ve got questions that range from “what is good weed?” to “what is good weed for sex”, host Ellen Scanlon has you covered, along with knowledgeable, trusted experts.If you want to hear how other wome...

The IQ test is supposed to be a measure of human intelligence. But is it? Today, we're joined by UC Berkeley professor Dr. Steven Piantadosi to understand why the diversity of human intellect can't be captured by a single number. We'll explore the history of IQ, from its innocent beginnings in French schools to its dark role in the eugenics movement. We'll understand why IQ testing is fallible, thanks to rising scores, the effects of motivation, and cultural bias, and learn about a test in the 1970s that was designed to flip that bias upside down. Go full galaxy brain...

Avoiding climate news? Do thoughts of the apocalypse keep you up at night? Feeling guilty about unsustainable habits? With climate change becoming a stark reality, more and more of us are grappling with anxiety over our planet's environmental crisis. Today, environmental psychologist Thomas Doherty sheds light on the emerging field of climate-conscious therapy — a response to this very real mental health impact. He explains how therapists are equipping themselves to counsel those struggling with climate anxiety, and how people can restructure their 'pyramid of issues' to create healthier coping mechanisms that will help them navigate these challenging times. You’ll hear...

How much do we really know about depression? In this remastered episode, Gerard Sanacora, director of the Yale Depression Research Program and Co-director of the Yale Interventional Psychiatry Service, reveals that even doctors don't fully get the biological roots behind depression's mix of mental and physical woes. But that doesn't mean we don't have effective treatments — and those treatments are only getting better. For example, ketamine and psilocybin are being studied as unconventional treatments to reshape depressed brains. Tune in to learn how medicine moves forward in understanding this serious condition, even when the science isn't clear.Science Vs Ketamine ep...

Menstruation is so much more than a useless byproduct of the reproductive cycle — it's a dang biological miracle. With the help of Dr. Kate Clancy, a professor at the University of Illinois and author of Period: The Real Story of Menstruation, this episode dives deep into the misconceptions, stigmas, and hidden truths about menstruation. Uncover the true purpose of periods, debunk the idea of a 'normal' period, and explore how environmental factors and personal experiences can impact menstrual cycles. We touch on premenstrual dysphoric disorder, PCOS, and endometriosis, along with the stigma associated with menstrual blood and why efforts to gi...

It's both a method of empowerment and a tool of control — but it sure is pretty! Today's episode delves into how makeup reflects and perpetuates society's conflicting views on femininity, with the help of historian Ilise S. Carter, author of The Red Menace: How Lipstick Changed the Face of American History. From its historical roots, like ancient Egyptian eyeliner and the opulent courtiers of Louis XIV, to the modern-day pressures women, POCs, and gender-nonconforming people face to adhere to impossible ideals, we uncover the dark side of makeup's impact. Hope you've got your no-makeup makeup on, 'cause this is one cu...

Heterosexuality isn't what you think it is. In this episode, historian Hanne Blank Boyd flips the script on how we view sexual orientation, showing how the concept of "heterosexuality" has only existed for around 150 years. Hanne traces how modern capitalism led "heterosexual" to emerge as a term for normal, moral sexuality, allowing the middle class to prove their respectability. Even now, assuming heterosexuality as the default norm skews scientific research on sexuality. Being straight isn't as simple as being attracted to the opposite sex — it's all encompassing and ever changing. Tune in to find out why. Pick up Hanne's book "St...

Get ready to rethink everything you know about race. With the help of anthropologist Agustín Fuentes, this episode debunks the idea that race exists within our biology. We're unraveling racist stereotypes, explaining why race is nothing like dog breeds, delving into the devastating effects of race in health and medicine, and explaining why your 23andMe results aren't what you think. This episode isn't just about debunking misconceptions - it's about highlighting our shared humanity. Pick up Agustin's book Race, Monogamy, and Other Lies They Told You: Busting Myths about Human Nature right here: https://amzn.to/3NSrCGDSee citations and a...

What do the Pioneer 10 plaque and communal bathhouses of Renaissance Europe have in common? Today we're stripping down the complicated concept of nudity with Dr. Ruth Barcan, honorary associate professor at the University of Sydney in Australia. We'll explore the meanings, reactions, and laws surrounding nudity, from how art influenced our perception of nudity to the complex legalities of female toplessness in the US. Oh yeah, and we're getting deep into the nudism movement, which has an origin story you'll be telling people about at parties.Pick up Ruth Barcan's book Nudity: A Cultural Anatomy right here: https://amzn.to/3...

Taboo Science will continue next week with a regularly scheduled episode, but I wanted to give a nod to Pride Month by sharing a podcast episode I love from the show Based on a True Story. Subscribe to Based on a True Story here: https://www.basedonatruestorypodcast.com/follow/

Connect with the show:
Join the Patreon: https://patreon.com/tabooscienceLeave me a voice memo: https://podline.fm/tabooscienceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tabooscienceYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tabooscienceWebsite: https://www.tabooscience.show/ Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tabo...

Did you know lactation is older than the dinosaurs? Latch onto the mysteries of breastfeeding with help from lactation scientist Bridget McGann and Mamava co-founder Sascha Mayer in today's episode, which delves into the incredible components of breastmilk, the way that feeding itself influences a baby's development, the debate between breastfeeding versus formula feeding, and why workplace support for pumping can be the single thing that keeps a mother breastfeeding. Plus: why have we seen so many boobs in bikinis and so few boobs feeding babies?Follow Bridget McGann on Twitter at @bridgetmcgann and learn more about Sascha Mayer and...

Grab your squatty potty and put your squeamishness aside: we're going elbow-deep into human waste with science journalist and author Bryn Nelson. This episode digs into the microbiome, probiotics, and fecal transplants. It uncovers the surprising benefits and uses of human waste, from healing autoimmune conditions to fertilizing crops, and even the ancient practice of collecting and selling 'night soil'. Also: how many synonyms for poop can Ashley stomach? Find out.Pick up "Flush: The Remarkable Science of an Unlikely Treasure" right here: https://amzn.to/3My0wUzSee citations and a transcript here: https://www.tabooscience.show/s3e3-poop...

This week, we challenge the common perceptions of attraction and explore the complexities of asexuality. Sociology PhD candidate Canton Weiner shares invaluable insights from his research while Sarah Costello, co-host of the podcast "Sounds Fake, But Okay," opens up about her personal experience being aro-ace, or aromantic asexual. We examine the split attraction model and shed light on various types of attraction, delve into the history of asexuality with pioneers like Magnus Hirschfeld and Alfred Kinsey, and discover how the rise of the internet has shaped the asexual community. This episode challenges misconceptions, explores the intersection of asexuality and other...

Today we're diving into the world of addiction and drug use with Judy Grisel, a behavioral neuroscientist who's been down the road of addiction herself. We'll cover why humans are so drawn to altering our consciousness with chemicals, how addictive drugs affect our brains, and some common misconceptions about drug use. Plus, we'll explore the factors that contribute to addiction, like age, genetics, and even random chance.Judy Grisel's book is "Never Enough: The Neuroscience and Experience of Addiction." Pick it up here: https://amzn.to/41k96ei See citations and a transcript here: https://www.tabooscience.show/s3e1...

The long wait is nearly over — Season 3 drops on 4/20.Taboo Science is a podcast that answers the questions you’re not allowed to ask. It’s hosted by Ashley Hamer, a science writer and podcaster. Every episode dives into a different societal taboo to understand the science that makes it tick, the reasons we don’t talk about it, and the impact that has on society at large. Why don’t we eat people? Why is it impolite to talk about money? And if drugs are so bad, how did addiction evolve? It’s science class if science class had one of those...

Why do we have such big butts? Why does society admire women's butts more than men's? And what does race have to do with all this?   Featuring Dr. Jeanne Bovet, senior lecturer at Northumbria University in Newcastle. https://www.jeannebovet.com/   See citations and a transcript for this episode: https://www.tabooscience.show/s2e12-butts/   Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.tabooscience.show/newsletter/     Follow Taboo Science: https://twitter.com/tabooscience   https://www.instagram.com/tabooscience/     Visit tabooscience.show for more.   Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme music by Danny Lopatka of DLC Music.

Conn...

It affects 1 billion people worldwide, so why is disability considered a niche issue? How can we make life easier for people with disabilities? And what does any of this have to do with As Seen on TV products? Featuring Emily Ladau, disability rights activist and author of the new book, “Demystifying Disability: What to Know, What to Say, and How to Be an Ally.” Pick it up here: https://amzn.to/3heTUKF   See citations and a transcript for this episode: https://www.tabooscience.show/s2e11-disability/   Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.tabooscience.show/newsletter/     Follow Taboo Science: https://twitter.c...

What is depression, really? Do antidepressants actually work? And how can ketamine and psilocybin possibly help?   Featuring Gerard Sanacora, director of the Yale Depression Research Program and Co-director of the Yale Interventional Psychiatry Service.   See citations for this episode: https://www.tabooscience.show/s2e10-depression/   Subscribe to the BRAND NEW newsletter! https://www.tabooscience.show/newsletter/   Follow Taboo Science: https://twitter.com/tabooscience https://www.instagram.com/tabooscience/   Visit tabooscience.show for more.   Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme music by Danny Lopatka of DLC Music.

Connect with the show:
Join the Patreo...

Why do we remove our body hair? Why do humans have less hair than our primate cousins? And why was Darwin obsessed with beards?   Featuring Rebecca Herzig, author of "Plucked: A History of Hair Removal." Pick it up here: https://amzn.to/3Csj819   See citations for this episode: https://www.tabooscience.show/s2e9-body-hair/   Subscribe to the BRAND NEW newsletter! https://www.tabooscience.show/newsletter/   Follow Taboo Science: https://twitter.com/tabooscience https://www.instagram.com/tabooscience/   Visit tabooscience.show for more.   Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme music by Danny Lopatka of DLC Music.
<...

They're complex, mysterious, and easy to blame for everything from unexplained symptoms to seemingly superhuman abilities. Find out how we discovered hormones, what they do inside of us, and who's really controlling who.   Featuring Randi Hutter Epstein author of "Aroused, the History of Hormones and How They Control Just About Everything." Pick it up here: https://amzn.to/3f93P3l    See citations for this episode: https://www.tabooscience.show/s2e8-hormones/    Follow Taboo Science: https://twitter.com/tabooscience https://www.instagram.com/tabooscience/   Visit tabooscience.show for more.   Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme music b...

Are kids really learning critical race theory in class? What IS critical race theory, anyway? And why is it so uncomfortable to talk about race? Featuring Janel George, associate professor of law at Georgetown University Law Center and founding director of the Racial Equity in Education Policy Clinic.   Click here to see citations for this episode!   Follow Taboo Science on Twitter and Instagram. Visit tabooscience.show for more. Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme music by Danny Lopatka of DLC Music.

Connect with the show:
Join the Patreon: https://patreon.com/tabooscienceLeave me a...

Why is it impolite to talk about money? Why are many of us uncomfortable with our own money habits? And how do we change things? Featuring Ted Klontz, Ph.D., director of the Financial Psychology Institute and associate professor of Practice and Financial Psychology at Creighton University.   See citations for this episode: https://www.tabooscience.show/s2e6-money/   Follow Taboo Science: https://twitter.com/tabooscience https://www.instagram.com/tabooscience/ Visit tabooscience.show for more. Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme music by Danny Lopatka of DLC Music.

Connect with the show:
Jo...

Why don't we have head transplants? Why would someone need one? And how much of you is in your head — and how much is everywhere else? Featuring Dr. Brandy Schillace, author of the book “Mr. Humble and Dr. Butcher: A Monkey's Head, the Pope's Neuroscientist, and the Quest to Transplant the Soul.” Pick it up here: https://amzn.to/2TniY91   See citations for this episode: https://www.tabooscience.show/s2e5-head-transplants/   Follow Taboo Science: https://twitter.com/tabooscience https://www.instagram.com/tabooscience/ Visit tabooscience.show for more. Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme music by Danny...

How long have STIs been around? Why don't we have anything higher-tech than the condom? And when did we stop saying "STD," anyway? Featuring Ina Park, MD, associate professor at the UC San Francisco School of Medicine and author of the book "Strange Bedfellows: Adventures in the Science, History, and Surprising Secrets of STDs." Pick it up here: https://amzn.to/3uGrs8h   See citations for this episode: https://www.tabooscience.show/s2e4-stis/   Follow Taboo Science: https://twitter.com/tabooscience https://www.instagram.com/tabooscience/ Visit tabooscience.show for more. Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Ha...

Snot and pee and earwax, oh my! Why are we so full of gross substances? What do our fluids do for us? And is there really a chemical to catch people peeing in the pool? Featuring Erika Engelhaupt, a science writer and editor and author of the new book “Gory Details: Adventures from the Dark Side of Science." Find it here: https://amzn.to/3eUFxdw   See citations for this episode: https://www.tabooscience.show/s2e3-bodilyfluilds   Follow Taboo Science: https://twitter.com/tabooscience https://www.instagram.com/tabooscience/ Visit tabooscience.show for more. Taboo Science is written and produced by A...

Why do we tease each other about getting old? Why don't you see 70-year-olds partying with 20-year-olds? What age is "old," anyway? Featuring Dr. Hannah Swift, a senior lecturer in Social and Organizational Psychology at the University of Kent in the UK. See citations for this episode: https://www.tabooscience.show/s2e2-ageism/   Follow Taboo Science: https://twitter.com/tabooscience https://www.facebook.com/tabooscience https://www.instagram.com/tabooscience/ Visit tabooscience.show for more.   Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme music by Danny Lopatka of DLC Music.

Connect with the show:
Jo...

Why do we treat some animals as food and others as family? Is animal agriculture really as bad as vegans say it is? And if I want to change things, is veganism my only option? Featuring Melanie Joy, social psychologist, founding president of the NGO Beyond Carnism, and author of "Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows." Click here to see citations for this episode! Follow Taboo Science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Suggest a taboo topic via ashley@tabooscience.show. Visit tabooscience.show for more. Taboo Science is written...

What was the original purpose of marriage? What's up with all those wedding traditions? And what makes a marriage last? Featuring Stephanie Coontz, researcher and author of Marriage, a History: How Love Conquered Marriage.   Click here to see citations for this episode!   Follow Taboo Science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Suggest a taboo topic via ashley@tabooscience.show. Visit tabooscience.show for more.   Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme music by Danny Lopatka of DLC Music.

Connect with the show:
Join the Patreon: https://patreon.com...

How will most of us die? How do our expectations of death go wrong? How can we all have a good death? Featuring Jennie Dear, author of “What Does It Feel Like to Die?: Inspiring New Insights into the Experience of Dying."Click here to see citations for this episode! 
Follow Taboo Science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
Suggest a taboo topic via ashley@tabooscience.show.
Visit tabooscience.show for more.
 
Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme music by Danny Lopatka of DLC...

Why do we keep early pregnancy a secret? How long have we been giving birth in hospitals? And why is childbirth so painful? Today's guest is Tina Cassidy, author of the book “Birth: The Surprising History of How We Are Born.”Click here to see citations for this episode! 
Follow Taboo Science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
Suggest a taboo topic via ashley@tabooscience.show.
Visit tabooscience.show for more.
 
Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme music by Danny Lopatka of DLC Music...

Is honesty really the best policy? What's the difference between a good lie and a bad lie? And how much do we lie to ourselves?   Today's guest is Judi Ketteler, author of the book “Would I Lie to You?: The Amazing Power of Being Honest in a World That Lies.” You can download a preview of the book right here.   Click here to see citations for this episode!   Follow Taboo Science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Suggest a taboo topic via ashley@tabooscience.show. Visit tabooscience.show for more.   Taboo Science is written...

Where does necrophilia come from? What makes people desecrate corpses? And do you have to be a serial killer to have a death fetish? Today's guests are Dr. Victoria Hartmann, a clinical psychology researcher and executive director of the Erotic Heritage Museum in Las Vegas, and neuroscientist and science communicator Dr. Jens Foell.   Click here to see citations for this episode!   Follow Taboo Science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Suggest a taboo topic via ashley@tabooscience.show. Visit tabooscience.show for more.   Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme mus...

It's the #1 cause of breakup and divorce. What if we're approaching infidelity all wrong? Today's guest is Dr. Lucia O'Sullivan, a social psychologist and professor in the department of psychology at the University of New Brunswick in Canada.   Click here to see citations for this episode!   Follow Taboo Science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Suggest a taboo topic via ashley@tabooscience.show. Visit tabooscience.show for more.   Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme music by Danny Lopatka of DLC Music.

Connect with the show:
Join the...

Why do we know so little about female anatomy? Why are so many of women's reproductive organs named after dudes? And hold up, the clitoris looks like THAT?! Today's guest is Rachel E. Gross, an award-winning science journalist who's writing a book about the female reproductive system.   Click here to see citations for this episode!   You can follow and review Taboo Science on Podchaser right here.   Follow Taboo Science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Suggest a taboo topic via ashley@tabooscience.show. Visit tabooscience.show for more.   Taboo Science is written and prod...

Why are we so grossed out by acne? What is it that makes popping pimples so satisfying? And why doesn't acne go away after adolescence? Today's guest is Dr. Alexa Shipman, a consultant dermatologist for the NHS in the United Kingdom.   Click here to see citations for this episode!   Taboo Science made Discover Pods' list of the Best Podcasts of 2020! Follow Taboo Science on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Suggest a taboo topic via ashley@tabooscience.show. Visit tabooscience.show for more.   Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme music by...

What do we get wrong about weight? Where did BMI even come from? And is there really an obesity "epidemic"? Today's guest is Dr. Yoni Freedhoff, an Associate Professor of Family Medicine at the University of Ottawa and Medical Director of Ottawa's Bariatric Medical Institute who's known as Canada's most outspoken obesity expert. He's also the author of "The Diet Fix: Why Diets Fail and How to Make Yours Work."   See citations and a transcript here: https://www.tabooscience.show/005-obesity/  Other episodes you'll enjoy:Body Hair: https://www.tabooscience.show/s2e9-body-hair/ Butts: https://www.tabooscience.show/s2e1...

Why do humans have such an aversion to eating each other? How many cultures really practice cannibalism? And does cannibalism happen in the Western world anymore? (Yes. The answer is yes.)   Today's guest is Bill Schutt, zoologist and research associate at the American Museum of Natural History. He's also the author of the book "Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History." Bill Schutt is also the author of the nonfiction book "Dark Banquet: Blood and the Curious Lives of Blood-Feeding Creatures" and the adventure novel "Hells Gate" (among many others). See citations and a transcript here: https://www.tabooscience.show/004-cannibalism/  Other ep...

How does the human penis measure up to the rest of the animal kingdom? What can the shape of the penis tell us about human mating? And what is up with society's obsession with the penis? Today's guest is Emily Willingham, science journalist and author of the book "Phallacy: Life Lessons from the Animal Penis." See citations and a transcript here: https://www.tabooscience.show/003-penises/  Other episodes you'll enjoy:' Vaginas: https://www.tabooscience.show/007-vaginas/  Pornography: https://www.tabooscience.show/002-pornography/  Hormones: https://www.tabooscience.show/s2e8-hormones/  Connect with the show:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taboo...

What makes porn, porn? Why is a Playboy centerfold porn when the Venus de Milo isn't? How long have we been making porn? And importantly, is porn addictive? Today's guest is Dr. Joshua Grubbs, professor of psychology at Bowling Green State University.  Taboo Science is written and produced by Ashley Hamer. Theme music by Danny Lopatka of DLC Music. Quotations read by Jonathan Pritchard of the podcast Mind Reader University. See citations and a transcript here: https://www.tabooscience.show/002-pornography/  Other episodes you'll enjoy: Penises: https://www.tabooscience.show/003-penises/  Necrophilia: https://www.tabooscience.show/009-necrophilia/  STIs: https://www.tabo...

What makes a word profane? Why are my swear words different from my parents'? If swearing is so bad, why do we do it? And what can a culture's swear words tell us about the things they hold taboo? "The way that words become powerful is by the taboos against using them." Dr. Ben Bergen is a professor of cognitive science at UC San Diego and author of "What the F? What Swearing Reveals About Our Language, Our Brains and Ourselves". He is an expert on the cultural and neurological aspects of profanity. Dr. Ben Bergen, a professor in cognitive...

Taboo Science is a podcast that answers the questions you're not allowed to ask. It's hosted by Ashley Hamer, a science writer and podcaster. Every episode dives into a different societal taboo to understand the science that makes it tick, the reasons we don't talk about it, and the impact that has on society at large. Why don't we eat people? Why are my swear words different than my parents'? And what makes porn, porn? It's science class if science class had one of those anonymous question boxes. It's Taboo Science. First episode coming soon.  More information at https://www.t...