The podcast where advanced research meets everyday curiosity
Who says you need an advanced degree to dive into the latest academic research? On Lab Coat Optional™, host Pete Zrioka interviews ASU researchers at the forefront of their fields — minus the jargon. We explore topics ranging from narrative influence campaigns, evolution-inspired cancer treatments, generative AI and its many impacts and even the hidden aspects of national security. Each episode takes you deep inside the work, the people behind it and what drives them. So leave your lab coat at the door and tune in to learn about the latest research from ASU. New episodes every other Wednesday!
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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.
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.
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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]](proxy.php?url=https://media.rss.com/lab-coat-optional/ep_cover_20260304_090306_8e4d352670434f15ee7e4016d7dbdd1b.png)
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Discover cutting-edge ASU research — no jargon, just insight.
Watch Lab Coat Optional episodes on YouTube.
Contact us
Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you!