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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.
Tackling plastic pollution from coast to coast with Charlie Rolsky
Plastic is everywhere. The same material that makes modern life easier has also become a persistent environmental pollutant.
Charlie Rolsky — ASU alumnus and executive director of the Shaw Institute in Blue Hill, Maine — explores how microplastics move through our environment and into our bodies, what we do and don’t know about their impacts, and why “biodegradable” often doesn’t mean what we think. He also reflects on his journey from ASU to Maine — and how scientists balance urgency with responsible communication.
Learn more about
- The Shaw Institute (and their free touch tank!)
- Dirigo Sea Farm
Further listening
- Listen to Science Vs!
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.
Please give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! It helps other listeners find us.
Got an idea for us? Get in touch at [email protected].
Episode credits
Executive produced by Kate Howells
Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka
Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka
Shot by Alexander Chapin
Edited by Alexander Chapin and Quinton Kendall
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
Disclosure:
Lab Coat Optional is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. This show does not create a doctor-patient relationship, and the information provided is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health. In case of a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Opinions expressed on this show reflect the views of the individuals only, not the policy or opinion of Arizona State University.
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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.
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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Knowledge Enterprise in the news
HonorHealth CEO Todd LaPorte named W. P. Carey’s Executive of the Year
In recognition of his impact on health care delivery and community health, the W. P. Carey School of Business at ASU will present LaPorte with its 2026 Executive of the Year Award.
Read on azbigmedia.comASU research looks to help Valley small businesses adapt to AI
“The fundamental problem with AI adoption in small business is balance,” says ASU professor and researcher Hitendra Chaturvedi.
Read on abc15.comExperts warn about relying on AI for mental health evaluations
Experts say AI can be useful for recognizing patterns or learning how to express your feelings, but it cannot replace mental health clinical evaluations that can have grey areas.
Read on fox10phoenix.comBlack Children’s Book Week inspired many
The week-long celebration was co-chaired by ASU Foundation professor Neal A. Lester, dedicated to uplifting children, families, and communities through literature.
Read on ahwatukee.comSurprising links between autism, Alzheimer’s could change how we treat both
ASU researcher Blaire Braden has studied autism for over a decade. She’s struck by how aging autistic brain scans show similarities to those with Alzheimer’s.
Read on seattletimes.comWhat is Cicada COVID? Is it in Arizona yet? All about variant BA.3.2
A COVID-19 virus strain nicknamed Cicada that may evade immunity from vaccines and past infection has been detected in 25 states, but not in Arizona.
Read on usatoday.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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