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Oh Gross! — Science
Oh Gross!

Don’t let the “ick” factor hold you back—we get to the bottom of life’s toughest and grossest moments, so nothing is off-limits or unspeakable. So if you are tired of asking awkward questions on Social Media or spiraling down a misinformation Doctor Google rabbit hole, welcome to the Oh Gross! Community.
Ever wonder how many times the average person gets bitten by a spider? Or what to do about germs on a plane? We pull back the curtain on life’s most unnerving mysteries by having real conversations with science to takeaways—that help you face the “ick” with clarity (and maybe a laugh). So don’t worry about that fuzz on your fruit in the fridge or panic about what to put in your “Bug Out Bag” for emergencies. We do the research so you can skip the stress—and get the answers you didn’t know you needed. Each episode Kara, Jennie and Molly dive into a squeamish or scary subject, blending expert-driven interviews, practical tips, and plenty of personal stories and wit to help you handle whatever life (or your leftovers) throw your way. We explain the science, delve into the history, and debunk the misinformation so you can tackle life’s sticky realities with confidence. No topic is too taboo—and yes, we’ll even tell you how many times you’re likely being bitten by spiders in a year.
In each episode, journalist and crime expert Kara Kurcz investigates the questions you’ve always wanted to ask, scientist Jennie Wickham breaks down the methodology behind the answers, and pop culture guru Molly Lucas shares relatable anecdotes that make even the gross stuff easier to digest. Together, these three friends make sure listeners walk away informed, intrigued, and ready for whatever creepy-crawly scenario comes their way because knowledge is the best antidote to “gross.”
Tune in to Oh Gross—we’rer here to make life’s messy moments more manageable.

Copyright: © All rights reserved. 2024

Latest Episodes:

Why Some People Run Hot or Cold Apr 09, 2025

Show notes

After a spring break hiatus, Kara, Jennie, and Molly reunite to settle a heated debate: what’s the perfect sleeping temperature? They discuss the science—and the drama—behind a good night’s sleep.

Kara shares some big news: Oh Gross! is officially nominated for a Webby Award for the episode L.A. Fires Crisis Mode: Avoiding Misinformation with Kerry Sanders!

She also recounts a hilarious birthday dinner at Key Largo’s Fish House, where a surprise red snapper ritual left everyone laughing. Meanwhile, Jennie and Molly trade tales —including an unexpectedly splashy experience with a bidet.

Help Oh Gross! take home the Webby People’s Voice Award by voting here: https://wbby.co/4c95NNx. Voting ends Thursday, April 17th!

0:00 — The Battle of the Thermostat

5:53 — Sleep Colder: 5 Science-Backed Benefits

9:39 — Webby Nominations Announced

12:31 — A Real Fishy Birthday Cake (Think Redsnapper with a Candle)

15:40 — Bidet Blowout: When the Knob Becomes a Super Soaker

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Myth or Mama Knew Best? The Truth About Colds Mar 26, 2025

Show notes

This episode of Oh Gross! is all about separating cold and flu facts from fiction! Kara and Jennie sit down with Dr. Steve to uncover the viral truth—literally.

They put old wives' tales to the test: Can you actually catch a cold from going outside with wet hair? Do cold feet make you sick? Is a sudden drop in temperature an open invitation for germs? From snot-covered furniture to sharing beds post-illness, Dr. Steve brings the science (and the laughs) to bust some common myths and explain what really makes you achoo!—and what doesn’t.

Then, in the second half of the episode, Molly is back and joins in for some spring break chatter and a sneak peek at what’s coming in April. The Oh Gross! team is shifting gears from what comes out of your colon to what goes into it! Kara is pumped for Jennie and Molly to meet Chris Wark (Chris Beat Cancer)—a colon cancer survivor,patient advocate, and author who will talk about the healing properties in our food. Jennie shares she has been investigating store bought foods under a microscope (literally) after Kara texted her one night that she fell down the rabbit hole of terrifying things found in our foods when magnified. So Jennie has been lugging her grocery hall into the clinics to see what organisms or objects could be lurking your beanie weenies. Molly, always up for a challenge, offers to help by taking the investigation to her favorite snack stop—gas stations, specifically those with questionable roller foods. And... the results are sure to blow your gross socks off.

So, grab your hand sanitizer, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for another hilariously icky and informative episode of Oh Gross!

0:00 — Introducing “Viral Truth” Where Dr. Steve Debunks Virus Myths

2:28 — Does Wet Hair or Feet Make You Sick?

8:24 — What to Know About Baby Fevers & Febrile Seizures

15:03 — Is My House Making Me Sick? Mold Realities vs. Myths

28:59 — Coming Up: Chris Beat Cancer + Our Food Deep-Dive

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Colonoscopies, Parasites & Burrowing Flies Mar 12, 2025

Show notes

Kara starts the episode with a case of the dreaded Disneyland hangover—you know, when your whole body hurts like you ran a marathon. Still, all you did was run after kids. Jennie followed Kara's advice last week and scheduled her colonoscopy. Molly is out for the week but has a "Doozy, or should we say Doogie" of a story to share next week.

In recognition of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we take another look at how colonoscopies work and what to expect during the procedure. Dr. Steve joins us to share his own experience, debunk common fears about the scope, and celebrate Kara's husband, Executive Producer and Editor Brian, who is officially 15 years cancer-free after his latest screening.

Then, the conversation shifts to the strange and unsettling world of parasites. We hear stories about everything from tapeworms to burrowing flies—including a story supposedly about a famous boy band tour bus driver! Are these urban legends about worms, or can parasites appear in unexpected places? Dr. Steve separates fact from fiction and keeps the conversation informed and fun. He tackles everything from what you need to know about sushi worms, when to fear fecal veneer in a bathroom and when not to, and whether warm water or bright lights entice parasites to come out at night.

In This Episode:

The real deal about colonoscopies and why you shouldn't be afraid
What you need to know about parasites....spoiler alert once again... WASH YOUR HANDS!
Why under cooked food is always a risk

0:00 — Host Kara’s Husband is 15 Years “Cancer Clean”

2:08 — What to Know About Polyps & Tapeworms In The Shower

6:03 — Disneyland Bathroom “Fecal Veneer”

12:06 — Screening Age for Colon Cancer Is Now 45. Why Guidelines Moved

21:50 — Sushi worms (Anisakis): Could Your Stomach Pain Be Larvae?

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What's Up Your Butt? Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Mar 06, 2025

Show notes

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, so naturally, this episode is running a little late—because Kara’s husband, Brian, was busy getting his colonoscopy so he couldn’t edit!

This week, Kara Kurcz is literally digging into the topic of colonoscopies with Jennie and Molly. But first, Kara shares a funky encounter with possibly spoiled milk (because, of course). Then, the real talk begins: What’s the right age to get your first colonoscopy? Spoiler alert—it’s 45, not 50, and yet both Jennie and Molly confess they still haven’t scheduled theirs.

Jennie opens up about her fears, while Kara—who’s had multiple colonoscopies—breaks it all down, answering every awkward question with humor and honesty. Between bouts of potty humor, they get serious about the rising rates of colon cancer, which is now the #1 cancer killer in men under 50 and #2 in women, surpassing lung cancer. Kara also shares insights from a Yale University article where they interviewed a doctor’s office who reported diagnosing only 30-something-year-old patients with colorectal cancer one month. The article discusses the importance of conversations around colorectal cancer prevention and screenings for younger generations like Gen Z.

Plus, Kara and Brian’s personal story takes center stage as she reflects on his 15-year cancer survival journey. Jennie recalls visiting them right after his diagnosis and witnessing the significant lifestyle changes they made to kick cancer's butt. Kara even made beet lasagna!

This episode is part wake-up call, part comedy hour—because talking about your butt shouldn’t be a bummer. Listen now and find out why scheduling that colonoscopy might just save your life!

0:00 — “I Drank Sour Milk”: What Will Happen?

3:27 — Why Colorectal Cancer Cases Are Rising Under 50

15:27 — What To Expect In Your Colonoscopy

21:45 — At-Home Screening Options for Colon Cancer

23:50 — Brian’s Journey With Cancer: Symptoms → Healing

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To Bidet or Not To Bidet, That Is The Question! Feb 26, 2025

Show notes

This episode the ladies jump bum-first into the world of bidets—. Some are fancy tush-washers you’ve probably side-eyed in a hotel bathroom and others are just waterfalls for your toilet seat.

There is a bidet for every need and budget, but is it worth the bathroom upgrade? This whole venture into the world of bidets started with an innocent question from Kara's 5th grader, “Uh, Mama What is a bidet and how do you dry your bum?”. As Kara goes down the rabbit hole of bidets, Jennie brings the history of their origin and Molly and Kara both discover there is an actual "Pootube" to teach you all you need to know about washing your bum and why. Picture this: a parent, a kid, and a playground convo that goes from “Wait, seriously?” to “Oh, gross, tell me more!”—it’s the kind of real, hilarious moment that fuels this pod.

We’re peeling back the lid on bidets like the unsung heroes they are. From a school trip detour to the history of centuries of squeaky-clean cheeks across Europe, Japan, and beyond. The girl explores why sales for bidets peaked in America during the pandemic and why maybe it is time we all get on the clean tushy train. Bidets aren’t just about luxury; they’re eco-warriors taking down toilet paper empires one spritz at a time, plus they’ve got health perks that’ll make you wonder why we’re still wiping?

Expect some straight-up LOLs as we tackle the gritty stuff: How do you dry off after the splash zone? What’s the deal with those attachments? And yeah, we’re going there—cleaning tips that’ll have you nodding like, “Huh, makes sense.” It’s practical, it’s weirdly fascinating, and it’s got that ohgross.com vibe—equal parts “ew” and “ooh.”

In the end, Kara, Jennie and Molly are smashing the taboo like a bidet blast to the face and convinced it is time to start a “Butts for Bidets” revolution. It’s not just about your hiney (though that’s a perk); it’s about hygiene and kicking TP to the curb. So, grab your headphones and let’s get to the bottom of this—pun absolutely intended.

0:00 — “What’s a Bidet?” Kid Q&A: How It Works And Why the U.S. Is Weird About It

4:44 — Why Bidets Boomed During Covid

8:04 — Health Wins Using A Bidet

15:31 — How To Keep Your Bidet Clean

28:04 — Bidet Options: Attachments, Travel Size, Smart Seats

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Overlooked Hygiene Habits Feb 19, 2025

Show notes

Think your hygiene habits are healthy? Think again. This is episode the girls talk about the top Hygiene habits people typically skipepisode, Kara, Jennie, and Molly expose the gross little secrets lurking in your daily routine (who knew Molly had so many cleaning rituals?!).

Inspired by a BuzzFeed article that pulled back the curtain on questionable hygiene, the hosts tackle everything from the soap scandal in men’s restrooms (seriously, why is the dispenser always full?!) to the mystery of foot washing. Are you a devoted scrubber or guilty of just letting water "do the work"? And let’s not forget the ultimate showdown: Hand Washers vs. Flickers—which side are you on?

From behind-the-ear grime to forgotten belly buttons that deserve more love, this episode is equal parts hilarious, eye-opening, and just a little disturbing.

The second half of the episode the girls answer questions from @itsohgross social media and talk about the top moments thus far on Oh Gross you won't want to miss.

So grab your soap and listen and follow.

1:19 — Wash Your Hands, Lads: Soap Stats, Man Vs Women

6:21 — How To Wash Your Belly Buttons & Ear Funk

14:50 — Feet in the Shower: Between-Toes Washing Debate

18:00 — Glasses Grime: An Optician’s Horror Stories

39:16 — Flashback to Favorite Moment: “Bullet in the Back”: Derm Story & Best-of Finale

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What's going on now... Feb 12, 2025

Show notes

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Beef Fat Facials, Smog and Your Skin Feb 05, 2025

Show notes

n this episode dermatologist Dr. Pedram Ghasri-Oh Gross!'s resident skin savant and founder of Castle Dermatology is back and talking about everything from wildfires and what's in the air to what you need to know about your skincare. The doctor discusses unexpected ways poor

air quality, toxins, and extreme weather can trigger flare-ups of conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne. Plus, shares expert tips on skin protection and answers questions about the unexpected effects of toxic pollutants such as: "Does pollution age our skin?"

Dr. Ghasri and the ladies chat about some of the internet’s most bizarre beauty trends—think beef fat facials, snail serum, and yes, even salmon sperm facials! (You read that right.) Expect plenty of laughs as he debunks some skincare myths, drops truth bombs (like telling Kara her

toner is basically useless) and gives his top tips for glowing skin. Dr. Ghasri also shares how to tackle the growing trend on Tik Tok and social media of tweens with expensive and extreme skin care routines and what to know as a parent or guardian.

Whether you're a skincare junkie or just curious about how Mother Nature’s mood swings impact your complexion, this episode is your go-to guide for surviving and thriving in a polluted world. So, grab your moisturizer and get ready for an eye-opening, slightly gross, and thoroughly fun conversation that’s as educational as it is entertaining!

Follow us on social: @ItsOhGross

0:00 — Not All Itchy Heads Are Lice

3:51 — Welcome Back, Dr. Ghasri + Dermatologist Normalizing Gross

6:51 — Wildfires, Weather & Your Skin: Eczema/Rosacea

12:12 — Smog-To-Skin Science: Ozone 101, Car UVA & Anti-Aging Musts

22:00 — Kids’ Skincare Craze: What Actually Works (And What Doesn’t)

35:05 — Toner Myth Busted

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Behind The Lens: Stories & Tips from Reporter Kerry Sanders Jan 29, 2025

Show notes

In this follow-up conversation, we sit down again with Emmy and Peabody Award-winning journalist Kerry Sanders—best known for his years as an NBC correspondent. He talks about his travel tips and eye-opening experiences. With natural disasters popping up in any region, Kerry stresses the importance of staying informed and being ready for anything before you travel to new or remote locations. He offers straightforward advice, like snapping a screenshot of your GPSmmap in case your phone loses service, and making sure your car’s

parked in a quick-exit position so you’re not stuck during an emergency.

Kerry also opens up about reporting through life-threatening situations, sharing a vivid account of covering Hurricane Andrew—one of the defining moments of his career. He describes the often-overlooked reality that reporters aren’t just observers; they’re right there in the thick of it,

helping communities access life-saving information in the face of chaos. Alongside hosts Kara, Jennie, and Molly, Kerry gets real about how social media has changed journalism—both for better reach and for the challenges it poses when misinformation spreads faster than facts.

Throughout the conversation, Kerry underscores how crucial it is to stay flexible and listen—whether you’re a journalist or just a concerned neighbor—because quick thinking and reliable info can literally save lives. He also highlights a simple but powerful truth: if you’re traveling somewhere new, take the time to get your bearings before you’re caught off guard by a dead phone battery or a bad internet connection.

Join us as Kerry’s stories bring to life the intensity and importance of delivering accurate news

when every second counts, while also providing simple, practical ways to stay safe and help others in crisis situations.

0:00 — Why “Gross” Misinformation Matters In Crises

1:22 — Tips On Exiting A Fire Emergency

4:02 — Hurricane Hell: Andrew From The Floorboard & Hugo’s Flying Door

8:30 — What the Cal Firefighters Got It Right

16:47 — Kerry Sander’s Crisis Checklist

35:12 — How To Vet Information From TikTok to AI

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L.A. Fires Crisis Mode: Avoiding Misinformation with Kerry Sanders Jan 22, 2025

Show notes

Kerry Sanders, an NBC veteran reporter, has covered crises in 65 countries, 7 continents, and all 50 states. In this episode of Oh Gross!,

Kerry shares practical ways to prepare for emergencies and natural disasters as he shares riveting stories from the field as a reporter. He also tackles the dilemma of the digital age—pointing to where audiences can find trustworthy information—and explores what everyone can learn from once the crisis has passed. Kara and Kerry discuss crisis preparedness, focusing particularly on the Los Angeles fires. As numerous communities grapple with the impact of these fires, both locally and nationally, questions about crisis readiness become

increasingly relevant.

Kerry shares his expertise on effectively reporting crises without causing panic, emphasizing the importance of precise communication and combating misinformation, especially in the age of social media. Drawing from his 32 years of experience as a Correspondent for NBC News and covering 100's of natural disasters, Kerry talks about tackling the challenges posed by

instantaneous, unverified information spread through digital platforms, and the crucial role of traditional media in providing accurate information.

Kerry also shares personal experiences, such as his impactful coverage of Hurricane Andrew and Katrina. Kara and him discuss what items he actually has in his own "Go Bag". Kerry offers valuable insights into how he navigates traveling to new locations and being aware of the region and what the potential challenges or natural threats may be. He also discusses how to have effective evacuation plans for your home and why it is important to maintain a sense of community in times of disaster.

Listeners can expect to gain a deeper understanding of how media can influence public perception during emergencies and the critical role journalists like Kerry play in delivering fact-based news. Join us as we explore these pertinent issues and learn practical tips to enhance personal and community crisis preparedness.

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