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From extreme heat to plastic pollution, our sustainability challenges are global and complex. ASU is tackling them in new ways.
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Lab Coat Optional™ podcast
On Lab Coat Optional™, host Pete Zrioka interviews ASU researchers at the forefront of their fields — minus the jargon. Leave your lab coat at the door and tune in to learn about the latest research from ASU.
Lab Coat Optional
Lab Coat Optional is the show where research is made relatable. Each episode, we dive into the research, the people behind it and why it matters. Tune in for smart, accessible conversations on the latest research from Arizona State University, released every other Wednesday.
We are a production of Knowledge Enterprise at ASU. Learn more at research.asu.edu.
Staying human in the age of AI with Andrew Maynard
As AI and emerging technologies reshape daily life, Andrew Maynard — scientist, author and professor in the Rob Walton College of Global Futures — discusses how we navigate disruptive innovation responsibly — and how we can hold onto our humanity in a rapidly changing world.
Further reading:
Listen to Andrew’s show, Modem Futura wherever you get your podcasts.
Learn more about Andrew’s Future of Being Human Initiative, and the Rob Walton College of Global Futures, part of the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at ASU.
Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram, LinkedIn and Bluesky or visit us at research.asu.edu.
Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice!
Get in touch with us at [email protected].
Episode credits
Executive produced by Kate Howells
Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka
Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka
Shot and edited by Alexander Chapin
Original music from Patrick Cheung
Motion graphics by Andy Ramos
Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz
Editorial support from Diane Boudreau
Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson
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Lab Coat Optional
Lab Coat Optional is the show where research is made relatable. Each episode, we dive into the research, the people behind it and why it matters. Tune in for smart, accessible conversations on the latest research from Arizona State University, released every other Wednesday.
We are a production of Knowledge Enterprise at ASU. Learn more at research.asu.edu.
The future of medical research with NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya [BONUS]
Director of the National Institutes of Health Dr. Jay Bhattacharya joins the show to discuss his priorities for the agency, building trust with Tribal communities, his advice to young researchers — and some of his favorite board games.
Jay’s board game recs:
- Azul
- Castles of Burgundy
- Anything by Vital Lacerda!
Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram, LinkedIn and Bluesky or visit us at research.asu.edu.
Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice!
Get in touch with us at [email protected].
Episode credits
Executive produced by Kate Howells
Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka
Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka
Shot and edited by Alexander Chapin
Original music from Patrick Cheung
Motion graphics by Andy Ramos
Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz
Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson
![The future of medical research with NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya [BONUS]](https://media.rss.com/lab-coat-optional/ep_cover_20260304_090306_8e4d352670434f15ee7e4016d7dbdd1b.png)
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Lab Coat Optional
Lab Coat Optional is the show where research is made relatable. Each episode, we dive into the research, the people behind it and why it matters. Tune in for smart, accessible conversations on the latest research from Arizona State University, released every other Wednesday.
We are a production of Knowledge Enterprise at ASU. Learn more at research.asu.edu.
Our rising energy demand, explained, with Kelly Barr and Gary Dirks
Energy demand is surging. To understand what’s driving it and how we’re going to meet it, I’m joined by energy veterans Kelly Barr and Gary Dirks from the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory. They explain the complicated nature of energy planning, why nuclear energy is getting another look and why when it comes to navigating our energy future — reliability is king.
Further reading:
- Analysis from the International Energy Agency
- Reports from the U.S. Energy Information Administration
- RMI research and analysis
Learn more about Energy Forward, a unit of the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.
Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram, LinkedIn and Bluesky or visit us at research.asu.edu.
Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice!
Get in touch with us at [email protected].
Episode credits
Executive produced by Kate Howells
Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka
Hosted by Pete Zrioka
Shot by Alexander Chapin
Edited by Alexander Chapin
Original music from Patrick Cheung
Motion graphics by Andy Ramos
Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz
Social media by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson
Clips
The growing environmental impact of AI data centers’ energy demands — PBS News Hour
How AI is driving a sharp rise in electricity bills — PBS News Hour
NBC 5 Responds: Soaring energy bills — NBC 5 Chicago
POWER CRISIS: Electricity demand SURGES as AI takes over — Fox Business
Inside the numbers: How data centers are increasing energy use — ABC15 Arizona
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Knowledge Enterprise in the news
ASU student Wil Gibbs spins AI research into a $1.5 million startup
After spending two years building AI systems for cybersecurity competitions, this ASU student is betting $1.5 million as CEO of Artiphishell to find computer vulnerabilities.
Read on azbigmedia.comData centers may raise neighborhood temps, ASU research suggests
Data centers have become controversial for their water and electricity use. Now, new research from ASU suggests they may also be raising temperatures by four degrees.
Read on 12news.comInfluential ASU women who trail blazed innovation
From supporting the creation of new colleges to driving forward advanced initiatives, women at ASU have made a lasting impact on the University.
Read on statepress.comASU students get help with dementia patients
ASU students are gaining hands-on experience through the Mindfulness in Medicine Internship in partnership with the Hospice of the Valley to support and care for dementia patients.
Read on westvalleyview.comExtreme heat is making life increasingly unlivable
Study co-author Jennifer Vanos, ASU associate professor who studies urban extreme heat, says the research shows that overheating can pose a threat to jobs like restaurant waiters.
Read on www.latimes.comASU program helps instructors learn how to teach students about ethical use of AI
Roger Thompson, director of writing programs in ASU’s English department, said the initiative aims to spark conversations about AI at both global and classroom levels.
Read on ktar.comMedia inquiries
Sandy Keaton Leander
Assistant Director, Media Relations
ASU Knowledge Enterprise
[email protected]
480-727-3396
ASU Media Relations and Strategic Communications
[email protected]
480-965-3502
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