University of California Video Podcasts (Video)

It is well known that inside nearly every living cell on this planet, there are instructions powering the dynamics of everything in the cell, known as deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). Enoch Yeung, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at UC, Santa Barbara, explains how DNA is the genetic code that tells cells where to live, how to live, and how to adapt when things get tough. Editing DNA has unlocked new potential in biology, enabled new therapeutics, diagnostics, and modes of treating diseases. Since DNA is double-stranded, it literally maintains a backup copy of itself to proof-read and facilitate stability of code. The double-stranded nature of DNA also means it can sometimes encode two messages in a given length! In short, DNA is amazing. Series: "GRIT Talks" [Science] [Show ID: 41040]

Michael J. Wilkinson, M.D., F.A.C.C., F.N.L.A., responds to the question, "How long does it take to get used to Intermittent Fasting?" Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 41183]

If you feel like there's more rudeness in the world, you're not alone. According to John O'Brien, psychologist and author of "Rudeness Rehab," there's a pandemic of incivility. O'Brien says we're seeing bad behavior everywhere, from the streets to the workplace to even the operating room. As part of our Osher Author Talk series, host Henry DeVries talks with O'Brien about the physical and mental toll of experiencing rudeness. O'Brien says we have the power to be our own superhero when dealing rude and difficult people. He calls his approach BAM, which stands for breathing, active listening and mindfulness. Series: "Osher UC San Diego Distinguished Lecture Series" [Health and Medicine] [Humanities] [Show ID: 40599]

Clinical trials turn scientific discoveries into real options for patients and volunteers, advancing care while safeguarding participants. Sheldon Morris, M.D., M.P.H., explains how independent oversight, core ethical principles, and stepwise phases evaluate safety and benefit, and clarifies participants’ rights and responsibilities. Sandip Patel, M.D., F.A.S.C.O., highlights how carefully designed studies open access to promising cell and gene-based approaches while balancing risks and benefits. Robert A.J. Signer, Ph.D., underscores why participation—including consenting to share samples and data—helps researchers understand disease and accelerate better treatments. Morris, Patel, and Signer point audiences to practical ways to locate studies through registries and national databases, discuss what costs are typically covered, and advise asking questions about study design and safety. They also caution against unproven “stem cell tourism” and emphasize informed decisions. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 40438]

Nature has been running chemistry experiments for over 4 billion years—yet today, much of modern organic chemistry still depends on wasteful, resource-heavy methods that rely on oil-based solvents. These solvents aren’t recycled, and when burned, they release CO2, adding to climate change. But what if chemistry could be done differently? Bruce Lipshutz, Distinguished Professor of Chemistry at UC Santa Barbara, shows how it’s possible to carry out organic reactions in water—nature’s own solvent. His research demonstrates that chemistry in water isn’t just more sustainable, it can also be faster, cheaper, and more effective than traditional approaches. Series: "GRIT Talks" [Science] [Show ID: 41029]

Writer R.F. Kuang has quickly become one of today’s most daring and original voices in fiction, blending sharp social critique with rich storytelling. Her most recent novel, Katabasis, takes readers on a darkly witty descent into the underworld, where academia, ambition, and myth collide. Known for tackling power, politics, and the human cost of ambition, Kuang first captivated audiences with The Poppy War and later with the wildly successful Babel, both of which showcased her ability to fuse historical depth with page-turning drama. As part of the 30th anniversary of the Writer's Symposium by the Sea, Kuang joins host Dean Nelson for a delightful conversation at Point Loma Nazarene University. Series: "Writer's Symposium By The Sea" [Humanities] [Show ID: 40781]

Circadian timing shapes how we sleep, feel, and function each day. Satchidananda Panda, Ph.D., Salk Institute, explains that keeping daily light, meals, movement, and sleep in step with the body’s internal clock supports alertness, metabolism, and recovery. Panda notes that evening light and late eating can make it harder to fall asleep and may work against healthy glucose control, while thoughtful timing of activity can improve energy and rest. He highlights that when we take medicines matters because the body’s response changes across the day. Travel and shift work challenge these rhythms, but simple habits with light exposure, meal timing, and sleep can ease the strain. Panda also describes ongoing efforts testing practical routines, including limited daily eating windows paired with light and activity strategies. Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40733]

Wine down with Chancellor May as he meets up with some of the students, staff and faculty from the Department of Viticulture and Enology — recognized as one of the best programs in the world. Chancellor May tours the winery and vineyard, learns about the winery's cutting-edge technology and sustainability practices, and even helps crush grapes before sampling the final product with his "partner in wine." Series: "UC Davis News" [Public Affairs] [Science] [Show ID: 41062]

Focused ultrasound (FUS), also called high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), is a noninvasive treatment using sound waves to address essential tremor and tremor-dominant Parkinson’s disease. Drs. Doris Wang and Leo Sugrue of UCSF explain how FUS and deep brain stimulation work to reduce tremor, outline which patients may benefit, and describe how the UCSF team individualizes treatment. Series: "UC San Francisco News" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 41035]

What does it really mean to go zero waste? At UC Davis, the answer is both innovative and inspiring.

Episode 4 of ‘Sustainably UC Davis’ explores how the university is moving toward a zero-waste future—from converting campus food scraps into renewable energy, to phasing out single-use plastics in food service. Featured in the episode are Joseph Yonkoski, Facilities Management superintendent of thermal infrastructure and former READ facility supervisor, Kelli O’Day, UC Davis Sustainability Assessment Program Manager, and Zero Waste Student Coordinators Grae Mordhorst and Sophie Fayet-Faber. Series: "UC Davis News" [Public Affairs] [Science] [Show ID: 41059]