The Naked Scientists Podcast provides science news and analysis. This show examines current science stories and features interviews with many scientists. Dr. Chris Smith, a United Kingdom-based scientist, and his guests discuss their work. They explain or simplify various topics. Show subjects range from DNA sequencing breakthroughs to fighting bed bug infestations.

Smith is a professor and consultant virologist at Cambridge University. He started the podcast as a BBC Radio program in 2001. Before that, the science radio show ran for a year on a local station under the title ScienceWorld. When Smith renamed and relaunched the show, it grew in popularity. In 2005 it became available in podcast form.

Peter Cowley, a technology startup veteran, provides expertise to the show when needed. Prominent guests on The Naked Scientists include James D. Watson, a molecular biologist. He codiscovered the structure of DNA. Other guests include astronomer Martin Rees and geneticist Alec Jeffreys.

The podcast's popularity is partly due to the quality of its guests and topics. In one episode, Smith and his cohosts discuss whether toads can predict earthquakes. Their exploration reveals ongoing research by Chinese and Japanese scientists. They share how there are accounts of animals fleeing before a catastrophic event. Speaking of toads, another episode examines the psychoactive compounds in their skins.

Audience input is a vital aspect of The Naked Scientists Podcast. Listeners send in questions and Smith answers them live on air. The Naked Scientists brand also released the book Boom! 50 Fantastic Science Experiments to Try at Home with Your Kids.

The Naked Scientists Podcast lives up to its name and popularity. Quality and revealing, engaging conversations are the norm on the show. Two new episodes debut weekly.