The podcast where advanced research meets everyday curiosity
Who says you need an advanced degree to dive into the latest academic research? On Lab Coat Optional ®, host Pete Zrioka interviews ASU researchers at the forefront of their fields — minus the jargon. We explore topics ranging from narrative influence campaigns, evolution-inspired cancer treatments, generative AI and its many impacts and even the hidden aspects of national security. Each episode takes you deep inside the work, the people behind it and what drives them. So leave your lab coat at the door and tune in to learn about the latest research from ASU. New episodes every other Wednesday!
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Discover cutting-edge ASU research — no jargon, just insight.
Watch Lab Coat Optional episodes on YouTube.
Team recognition
Anthem Award
In 2026, the Lab Coat Optional team was recognized for our efforts to communicate the importance of academic research and won a Bronze Anthem Award in the Podcast Show, Education, Art & Culture category.
Higher Ed Pod Con Award
Lab Coat Optional was a runner up for Outstanding Podcast of the Year for 2026’s inaugural Higher Ed Pod Con Awards. The awards recognize excellence in higher education podcasting.
Contact us
Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you!