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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:

Los Angeles Fires: From Alarm to Action Jan 18, 2025

Show notes

This episode is all about crisis preparedness. Kara, Molly, and Jennie talk about the superstition that discussing tragedy or misfortune before it happens is like “tempting fate.” But in reality it is crucial to speak openly about potential disasters before they strike so everyone can be better prepared. They talk about how "Gross" can mean obvious or severe and "Gross Communication" in crisis is problematic.

Master Public Information Officer Mike Jachles—Chair of the Florida Association of PIOs and the Florida PIO Deployment Team—joins Kara to discuss the devastating Los Angeles fires and how urban fires pose unique challenges for communities and first responders. With all the swirling rumors on social media Mike explains how fire hydrants work and what you need to know about air quality during a fire. Drawing on his firsthand crisis experience, Mike provides insights on effective communication before, during, and after a catastrophic event.

Along with Molly and Jennie, Mike and Kara also explore the confusion caused by unclear or complex terminology in media reports—like the word “containment.” Molly asks how full you should keep your gas tank at all times (and is shocked by the answer!), while Jennie receives a

step-by-step home-preparedness checklist. They cover various aspects of readiness, including the six Ps of evacuation and the critical role of having cash on hand during emergencies.

Listen and follow to learn more about the Los Angeles fires, how events like these can affect your health, and how to be better prepared for any catastrophe.

0:00 — Redefining “Gross” & Why Crisis Prep Matters

4:27 — Meet Master PIO Mike Jachles: How To Deliver Life-Saving Info

5:20 — Fire Definitions Decoded: From Containment to Growth

6:55 — The Six P’s of Evacuation

20:24 — What to Do When The Internet Is Down in Crisis

43:07 — How To Keep Your Home Safe

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Los Angeles Fires Jan 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Kara shares her personal experiences with the recent Los Angeles wildfires, offering a candid look at the challenges of evacuations, uncertain air quality, and the surge of misinformation.

She introduces that the next few episodes will have important crisis preparedness conversations with an incredible team of experts— including first responders and Public Information Officers, representatives from FEMA, medical professionals, and community safety specialists—who will explain what anyone can do to make a critical difference and the steps we can all take to verify reliable sources during a crisis.

The next few episodes will deep dive into effective community communication, touching on how social media can both help and hinder emergency responses, and why open discussion about disasters can actually ease stress rather than ignite fear, especially when talking to children.

Throughout the episodes, everyone highlights the vital role of mental preparedness, suggesting ways to handle the emotional toll that often accompanies emergencies.

We all have immense gratitude and respect for first responders, the conversations that will happen in the next few episodes reinforce the power of resilience and community spirit in the face of any crisis.

0:00 — Kara shares Her Evacuation Story

4:34 — What’s Coming: Expert Lineup

6:05 — Bugout Bags & Personal Preparedness Stories

9:08 — Community Intel: Alerts, Apps, Crowdsourcing Vs. Misinformation

10:02 — Air Quality, Masks & When It’s Safe To Return (Kids/Pets)

15:01 — Call For Listener Questions + Salute To First Responders

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Bites in the Night: All You Need to Know about Bedbugs Jan 08, 2025

Show notes

Did you know bed bugs can slip through light sockets, survive for months without a meal, and are drawn to the carbon dioxide you breathe out?

In this episode, we’re joined by Bill Carlson—renowned scientist and owner of Nature’s Innovation—who’s spent over two decades perfecting natural, non-toxic pest control and studying Bed Bugs! Get ready to ditch the squeamishness as Bill reveals jaw-dropping bed bug facts, from their poop stains to their sneaky hiding spots. Don’t miss out on his expert tips for prevention and peace of mind!

From budget hostel horror stories to upscale resort surprises, Bill shares why these tiny, elusive pests have thrived for thousands of years—no matter the socioeconomic status. Get insider tips on spotting and stopping bed bug infestations, learn their bizarre biology (hello, unusual mating habits!), and hear real-life tales that range from hilarious to horrifying.

Tune in every Wednesday for new episodes, and join the fun at ohgross.com or follow @ItsOhGross for more shocking bug stories and fun science facts!

0:00 — Bed Bug 101: Size, Night Habits & Hitchhiking

1:09 — Post-Travel “Naked In The Garage” Bed Bug Story

8:43 — Hotel & Travel Defense: How To Inspect Beds, Bags & Planes

14:31 — Getting Rid Of Bed Bugs: Treatments, DIY Steps & Home Cleanup

16:01 — Horror Biology: How Bed Bugs Mate

43:06 — Where To Get Help: Products, Prevention & What To Do Next

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Toys That Made Kids Giggle and Parents Cringe: Wham-o Toy Stories Jan 06, 2025

Show notes

You loved the audio version, so now it’s time to see the captivating toys! Watch Kara, Molly, and Jennie tackle 3 decades of weird, wacky, and wonderfully gross toys that had kids cracking up and parents reaching for the wine.

In this episode of Oh Gross!, we dive into three decades of toy history and uncover the surprisingly sticky backstories behind some of the most outrageous creations. From Garbage Pail Kids to the “digesting” Baby Alive, the 80s prove that gross was definitely golden. Chuck Knerr, Toy Historian Extraordinaire, who is the son of Wham-O toy company founder spills secrets on everything from why the Slip 'N Slide saved the company, to epic toy flops like a Mink Navel Stole and a smash hit called Instant Fish, that crashed and burned after the fishes were no longer feeling romantic.

This video release is perfect for anyone who grew up begging for toys from 60s, 70s, or 80s commercials—or just loves revisiting the bizarre brilliance of childhood.

New episodes drop every Wednesday! Dive into the fun at ohgross.com and follow us on social @ItsOhGross for all the messy nostalgia.

0:00 — 80’s Gross Toys Kickoff

1:49 — Baby Alive & Mold & Meet Chuck Knerr Son of Whamm-O Toy Founder

11:42 — Slime’s Origin Story: Super Stuff

17:15 — Instant Fish: How Sinatra Failed to Make Fish Breed

33:05 — Poke Bone & Nutty Nutter: Weirdest Toy Misfires

44:04 — Mink Stole For Your Belly Button & Final Gross Toy Rankings

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Oh Gross! Science, Facts, More Laughs- Now on Video in 2025! Jan 02, 2025

Show notes

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2025 Trailer Dec 31, 2024

Show notes

Happy holidays from the "Oh Gross" team as we are getting ready to kick off 2025 with exciting news! Kara, Molly, and Jenny are thrilled to announce the launch of video versions of our popular podcast.

Starting January 3rd, we are re-releasing video versions of your favorite past episodes. Then, on January 8th, don't miss the premiere of our first brand-new episode of 2025, available in both audio and video formats.

What’s coming up in 2025?, Oh Gross is diving into a quirky mix of fascinating topics. We'll explore everything from bubblegum to dealing with bedbugs. Plus, we'll feature exclusive interviews with industry experts and notable figures from the worlds of entertainment, food, and wellness. Expect hilarious discussions about strange food combos, crazy Las Vegas stories, and plenty of tips, tricks, and advice to get you through the icky and sticky of life.

Don't forget to tune in for the best blend of humor, weird science, and practical wisdom in Oh Gross!

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Gross Stocking Stuffers Kids Can't Live Without Dec 18, 2024

Show notes

Remember a time when X-rays were toys in shoe stores? Or when a lightbulb tried to bake you a cake, and it turned out gooey? Childhood toys weren’t always just fun and games—they were sometimes hilariously messy, a little weird, and sometimes dangerous.

In this playful episode of Oh Gross!, Kara, Molly, and Jennie take another dive into the world of iconic toys that brought a touch of “ew" and sometimes "eek" From Creepy Crawlers to the chomping Cabbage Patch Snacktime Kid they uncover surprising toy stories of the past.

And they also give us their top holiday "oh Gross" shopping picks as they unwrap the newest gross-out holiday stocking stuffers, like Gooey Louie and Mega Gross Minis, proving that gross toys are here to stay—and kids are still loving them!

New episodes drop every Wednesday!

Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen, and visit ohgross.com. Follow @ItsOhGross on Instagram for even more fun, gross, and nostalgic content!

0:00 — Easy-Bake Ovens Price Shock & Undercooked Treats

4:02 — Canceled Chewing Doll: Cabbage Patch Snacktime

8:03 — Shoe-Store X-Rays & Creepy Crawlers

15:22 — Pimple Toys, Booger Bonanza & Disgusting Science

23:12 — Mega Gross Minis Unboxing: Barf Slime, Maggots & “Old Lice”

37:52 — Video Launch, Holiday Schedule & How To Share Your Gross Toys

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Toys That Made Kids Giggle and Parents Cringe Dec 11, 2024

Show notes

Discover the History of Outrageous Toys in This Nostalgic Holiday Podcast Episode!

Step back to the 80s—a golden era of gross toys like Garbage Pail Kids, smelly Breath Blasters, and the obnoxious Rude Randy! These gross-out gadgets made kids laugh and parents cringe, but the legacy of outrageous toys spans far beyond the 1980s.

In this episode of Oh Gross!, hosts Kara, Molly, and Jennie dive into the history of messy, sticky, and delightfully weird toys that turned childhood into a hilariously gross adventure. From Baby Alive's infamous "digestive drama" to the origins of Garbage Pail Kids, we unpack the toys that defined generations.

Special guest Chuck Knerr, toy historian and son of Wham-O Toy Company founder Richard Knerr, takes us on a tour of his home toy museum. Chuck reveals insider stories about wacky inventions like Mink Navel Stole (as in belly button), the Water Weenie, and Instant Fish—some that became hits and others that hilariously flopped.

Whether you're a toy enthusiast, a nostalgic 80s kid, or shopping for gag gifts this holiday season, this episode is packed with fun facts, behind-the-scenes stories, and all the gooey nostalgia you love.

New episodes drop every Wednesday!

Visit ohgross.com and follow us on social media @ItsOhGross for more hilarious, gross, and nostalgic content.

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Germs on a Plane: Surviving Holiday Travel Season Dec 04, 2024

Show notes

Beat the holiday travel germs with Oh Gross! Hosts Kara, Jennie, and Molly team up with infectious disease specialist Dr. Steve Threlkeld to uncover the hidden health risks of air travel. From airplane toilet seats to sneeze safety, this laugh-out-loud guide mixes humor with hygiene to help you navigate the germ-filled friendly skies.

Dr. Steve answers burning questions and dishes out some gross truths:

What’s worse—your kid licking airplane carpet or chewing old gum stuck to a seat?

Window vs. aisle seat: Which is safer for avoiding germs?

Does in-flight air circulation spread sickness?

What must-have carry-on items help you stay germ-free?

With cringe-worthy scenarios (hello, mystery odors and questionable airplane meals), mid-flight mishaps, and practical advice, this episode guarantees turbulence-proof laughs and survival tips. Whether you’re debating sneezes or braving airport chaos, Dr. Steve brings the science while Kara, Jennie, and Molly keep it hilariously real.

Make this travel season merry, bright, and much cleaner. Tune in now for the ultimate mix of humor, science, and actionable tips—because knowledge (and hand sanitizer) is your best travel insurance!

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Popstars, Tapeworms, and Mama Jan's ‘Oh Gross!’ Confession Nov 27, 2024

Show notes

What happens on the Backstreet Boys tour bus definitely doesn’t stay on the tour bus. In this laugh-out-loud episode, Jennie and Molly dish on their pop star days, spilling the tea (and maybe some cringe-worthy truths) about a certain unexpected guest that hitched a ride: a tapeworm. Yep, you read that right—this isn’t your average behind-the-scenes story!

Jennie, Kara and Molly are also thrilled to welcome the legendary Mama Jan Smith, the Grammy-winning vocal coach behind music's biggest stars, for an inspiring and hilarious chat just in time for Thanksgiving. Mama Jan shares motivational gems that’ll warm your heart—and reveals her own ‘Oh Gross!’ moment featuring worms in a way only she can.

Tune in for all the laughs, the inspiration, and a few moments that’ll make you say, Oh Gross!

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