What The If?

Latest Episodes:

Santa's Physics Extravaganza! Dec 22, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to a holiday special episode of "What The If?" where we merge the festive spirit with the wonders of science! 🎅🌌 This time, we're tackling a delightful and thought-provoking question sent in by Bill from Virginia: "What if Santa had to obey the laws of physics?" Imagine Santa Claus navigating the challenges of real-world physics on his gift-giving spree. How does he manage to visit 2.25 billion households in one night? We dive deep into fascinating concepts like wormholes, time dilation, and even the mysterious Alcubierre drive. Could these be the secrets behind Santa's legendary efficiency? We also take a whimsical look at Santa's potential use of advanced technologies and theories to pull off his global mission. It's an episode filled with imaginative scenarios, humorous speculations, and a sprinkle of holiday magic. Perfect for anyone who loves a good blend of holiday cheer and intriguing scientific possibilities. Tune in for a jolly good time as we explore the fantastical world of Santa's physics! 🛷✨🔭 --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

SLEEP No More! Dec 10, 2023

Show notes

Hey, "What The IF" fans! This is Philip, and together with Gaby, we've brewed up a sleep-deprived adventure in our latest episode. We dive into the world of micro naps, inspired by chinstrap penguins and their thousand daily snoozes. Imagine a world where humans, just like these penguins, nod off hundreds of times a day. How would our jobs, cars, and even sports adapt? From vigilant parenting to the evolution of traffic laws, we explore the hilarious and intriguing consequences of this sleep-pattern switch. Buckle up for a journey through a world punctuated by mini-naps and discover the surprisingly profound implications of these brief slumbers! --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

Silent But DEADLY Nov 17, 2023

Show notes

Hey there, science enthusiasts and curious minds! It's Gaby and Philip here from What The IF, and we've got a hilariously explosive episode for you! 🌌💥 Thanks to our devoted listener SpaceViking from Sweden, we're diving into a side-splitting, yet scientifically intriguing question: 'What the if... Flatulence possessed lethal properties?' Imagine a world where a simple fart could be a matter of life and death! Join us as we navigate this fragrant minefield, discussing the chemical composition of flatulence, its impact on the environment, and, most importantly, its potential as a deadly force. We guarantee giggles and gasps of amazement, as we blend science with a touch of absurdity. Tune in for an episode that's sure to clear the room! --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

Throw It ALL In The CRISPR! Nov 10, 2023

Show notes

Hi there, Gaby and Philip here from the "What The If" podcast! In our latest episode, we're slicing into the sensational world of CRISPR - that revolutionary genetic editing tool. Join us as we dissect the New York Times headline about using CRISPR to make chickens resistant to bird flu. We delve into the science behind CRISPR, its potential to change the genetic makeup of organisms, and its limitations. Our conversation ventures into the ethical dilemmas of gene editing, the future of fighting diseases, and the ever-evolving battle between humans and viruses. This episode is a rollercoaster ride of science, ethics, and humor that's perfect for both the science-savvy and the casually curious. Tune in for a CRISPR clear understanding of one of the most groundbreaking technologies in genetics! --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

Ultra Massive ASTEROID! Nov 03, 2023

Show notes

Hey there, science enthusiasts and curious minds! We're inviting you on a cosmic journey with us in our latest podcast episode. We're diving into the mysterious realm of asteroids and uncovering the secrets of their composition. Ever wondered how scientists figure out what these space rocks are made of without taking a trip to space? Join us as we discuss the intriguing methods used to measure the density of celestial bodies like Jupiter and asteroids, revealing their hidden natures. But that's not all - we've stumbled upon an enigmatic asteroid named Polyhymnia, whose density is off the charts, surpassing any known metal! How is that possible, you ask? Tune in to our show as we unravel the massive mysteries of Polyhymnia. --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

Ultra QUIET City! Oct 27, 2023

Show notes

Our newest listener, Suzanne, asks, "What The IF cars didn't have horns?" It's a question we all ask on those days when the traffic jam outside our window seems to have no sense of decency! Gaby, Matt and Philip imagine the world-changing ramifications of quiet cars and an even quieter planet. Utopia or Dystopia? Tune in and find out, and shhhhh.... this is a fun one! --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

BULK Over Beauty! Oct 20, 2023

Show notes

Hey there, science aficionados! It's Gaby, Matt, and Philip here. Ever wondered what would happen if nature's playbook was rewritten, where "survival of the fittest" strictly meant "survival of the strongest"? Dive into a world where raw power dictates evolution, and the scales of nature tip in favor of pure brawn. From peacocks that can flip tigers to other jaw-dropping power shifts in the animal kingdom, we explore the thrilling and often hilarious implications of a muscle-bound ecosystem. Join us on this exhilarating journey as we challenge, laugh, and marvel at the unexpected twists of nature! --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

Martinis On VENUS! Oct 13, 2023

Show notes

Hey there, fellow science enthusiasts! It's Philip, Gaby, and Matt, back with another electrifying episode. Thanks to a stellar challenge from our Super Iffer, Dan from Colorado, we're diving into the tantalizing question: Can we make Venus habitable? Together, we embark on an epic Venutian journey, weaving together the chemistry of sulfuric acid and table sugar, the unexpected utility of garbage, and the delightful twist of martinis. Are you ready to reimagine a planet with us? Dive in, and let's explore the cosmos, one "IF" at a time! --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

BEES Control The Weather! Oct 06, 2023

Show notes

Hey there, science enthusiasts! Gaby and Philip here, and we're about to take you on a flight of fancy you won't forget. Ever imagined a world where bees don't just buzz around but actually have the power to control the weather? 🐝⛈️ Dive into the hive with us as we ponder this extraordinary "What The IF" scenario! From sun showers to thunderous buzz-storms, let's explore the ripple effects of giving these tiny wonders such meteorological might. Prepare for a forecast you never saw coming! --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

Scoop Of EARTH! Sep 29, 2023

Show notes

Hold onto your seats as Philip and Matt take you on a space adventure like no other! This time, we're asking the zany question: What if we took a random scoop of Earth and sent it to another celestial body? Get ready to delve into the intricacies of the OSIRIS-REx mission to Bennu and what it might mean to do something similar—but in reverse. Trust us; you don't want to miss this cosmic rollercoaster! --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

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