How Science Vs. Turns Research Into Stories: Jokes, Citations, and a Lot of Editing

What does it take to turn rigorous scientific research into stories millions of people actually want to listen to?

This week, Neil and Jen sit down with Blythe Terrell, executive editor of Science Vs., to learn how one of the world’s most popular science podcasts blends deep research, narrative storytelling, and a bit of humour to reach millions of listeners. Science Vs. certainly doesn't opt for the path of least resistance, Blythe walks Jen & Neil through the realities of making a weekly narrative show and their extensive fact-checking and citation practices.

The conversation also explores what higher education podcasters can learn from Science Vs.: how to build trust with audiences, how to story-tell your research, and why showing your work through transcripts and citations matters more than ever. Along the way, Blythe shares insights from teaching podcasting at NYU, working with scientists to communicate beyond academic jargon, and even collaborating on peer-reviewed research sparked by podcast episodes. It’s a thoughtful look at how podcasting can expand the reach and impact of scientific research, while having a whole lot of fun. 

Episode Links:

• Listen to Science Vs.
• Contact Blythe
• NYU's Science, Health & Environmental Reporting Program
• Queen's University Sexual Health Research Lab | Blue Balls & Sexual Coersion | The Orgasm Gap

Connect with Us:

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: [email protected]
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters Network
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  [email protected] 
• Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or [email protected]
• Twitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Chapters:

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (02:53) - What Is Science Vs. and How the Show Works
• (04:19) - Inside the Narrative Production Process
• (08:31) - Treating Episodes Like Research
• (09:20) - Handling Feedback, Criticism, and Listener Trust
• (12:38) - Why Show Notes, Citations, and Transcripts Matter
• (16:31) - Teaching Podcasting and Science Communication at NYU
• (22:29) - Science Vs. & Queen's University's Published Research
• (30:38) - The Future of Podcasting in Higher Education
• (32:37) - Conclusion