What The If?

In a bizarre thought experiment ripped from a headline in Scientific American, we explore a world where humans have developed a genetic mutation similar to some Labrador retrievers that causes constant hunger. This leads us down a hilarious path of imagining cities with celery slurry piped to every home, space missions needing to carry vast tanks of liquified celery, and foosball becoming the new national pastime in a low-energy society. Join us as we follow this delightfully absurd scenario to its conclusion and have some laughs about our least favorite vegetable.

In this episode, we dive into a thought-provoking journey of what could happen if humanity had to restart on Earth after different timeframes due to a complete extinction event. Imagine waking up as a clone with no prior knowledge of the world, or as a human re-seeded by aliens or from other human colonies. We explore scenarios spanning 100 years to 10,000 years, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities for rebuilding civilization. From the survival of concrete structures and the resilience of certain animals and plants to the rediscovery of lost technology and the potential misinterpretation of our current day objects as ancient artifacts, this episode navigates the fascinating concept of repopulating Earth. Tune in to unravel the complexities of starting from scratch, the impact of time on the remnants of human civilization, and how future generations might interpret the artifacts left behind by us. This imaginative exploration, inspired by a listener named Aurie from Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia, promises to spark curiosity and wonder about the resilience and adaptability of humanity and the legacy we leave behind. Listen now at http://whattheif.com/ to join us on this extraordinary speculative adventure. --- 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

Our podcast episode embarks on a thought-provoking adventure led by the curiosity of Lars from Sweden. Imagine a society where modern conveniences and technological advancements are powered not by electricity, but by steam and sheer ingenuity. From the whimsical to the profound, we delve into the implications of such a world, exploring everything from the resurgence of gas lighting and the peculiar logistics of podcast delivery, to the potential environmental impacts and the quirky ways we might communicate across the globe. Join us as we ponder the steampunk-esque realities, laugh at the absurdities of daily life powered by alternative means, and marvel at the human capacity to adapt and innovate.

This week's episode takes a leap inspired by the latest in AI video generation to explore the concept of the Star Trek holodeck. Imagine a future where holodecks are a part of every household. We dive into the endless possibilities and the transformative potential of having personal holographic spaces. How would education, entertainment, and our understanding of history change if holodecks were real? Join us on a journey through the implications and exciting prospects of integrating holographic technology into daily life. --- 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

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-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

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 education, where the future of learning is only a hologram away. --- 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

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: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

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 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. 🌟 In this laid-back, post-show chat, we delve into some extra thoughts and fun reflections right after recording our "Santa's Physics Extravaganza!" episode. It's like a backstage pass where we continue the conversation, sharing more insights, laughter, and those spontaneous moments that happen once the main recording stops. From discussing Santa's potential time-traveling adventures to our own personal holiday experiences, this session is a delightful glimpse into the casual and candid side of our podcast. It's our way of saying thanks for your support and giving you a sneak peek into the kind of bonus content our Patreon supporters enjoy. Happy Listening and Happy Holidays! Philip, Matt, and Gaby

Welcome to a holiday special episode of "What The If?" where we merge the festive spirit with the wonders of science! 🎅🌌 This time, we're tackling a delightful and thought-provoking question sent in by Bill from Virginia: "What if Santa had to obey the laws of physics?" Imagine Santa Claus navigating the challenges of real-world physics on his gift-giving spree. How does he manage to visit 2.25 billion households in one night? We dive deep into fascinating concepts like wormholes, time dilation, and even the mysterious Alcubierre drive. Could these be the secrets behind Santa's legendary efficiency? We also take a whimsical look at Santa's potential use of advanced technologies and theories to pull off his global mission. It's an episode filled with imaginative scenarios, humorous speculations, and a sprinkle of holiday magic. Perfect for anyone who loves a good blend of holiday cheer and intriguing scientific possibilities. Tune in for a jolly good time as we explore the fantastical world of Santa's physics! 🛷✨🔭 --- 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

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 & Gaby

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! 🌌💥 Thanks to our devoted listener SpaceViking from Sweden, we're diving into a side-splitting, yet scientifically intriguing question: 'What the if... Flatulence possessed lethal properties?' Imagine a world where a simple fart could be a matter of life and death! Join us as we navigate this fragrant minefield, discussing the chemical composition of flatulence, its impact on the environment, and, most importantly, its potential as a deadly force. We guarantee giggles and gasps of amazement, as we blend science with a touch of absurdity. Tune in for an episode that's sure to clear the room! --- 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

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 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 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 miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

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? 🐝⛈️ Dive into the hive with us as we ponder this extraordinary "What The IF" scenario! From sun showers to thunderous buzz-storms, let's explore the ripple effects of giving these tiny wonders such meteorological might. Prepare for a forecast you never saw coming! --- 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