Talking Biotech with Dr. Kevin Folta

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Talking Biotech is a weekly podcast that uncovers the stories, ideas and research of people at the frontier of biology and engineering.Each episode explores how science and technology will transform agriculture, protect the environment, and feed 10 billion people by 2050.Interviews are led by Dr. Kevin Folta, a professor of molecular biology and genomics.

Recent Episodes
  • A Grassroots Run for Ag Commissioner - Dr. Sarah Taber
    Jun 7, 2025 – 35:31
  • Where Did The Bird Flu Go? - Dr. Kevin Folta
    May 31, 2025 – 37:04
  • The Origin of Critical Maize Traits - Regina Fairbanks and Dr. Jeffrey Ross-Ibarra
    May 17, 2025 – 31:25
  • The GE Corn Ban in Mexico - Luis Ventura
    May 10, 2025 – 32:41
  • The Mexico GMO Corn Controversy - Luis Ventura
    Feb 24, 2025 – 34:37
  • Synthetic Biology and Natural Products - Dr. Philipp Zerbe
    Feb 1, 2025 – 38:55
  • Designing New Proteins with A.I. - Stefan Van Grieken
    Jan 25, 2025 – 37:08
  • Garden Biotech- The Purple Tomato, Dr. Nathan Pumplin
    Jan 14, 2025 – 38:51
  • Disinformation Warfare Against Food, Farming and Medicine - Dr. Kevin Folta
    Jan 5, 2025 – 01:13:38
  • Mpox- The Virus, Transmission and Treatment - John Rizk
    Nov 30, 2024 – 36:18
  • Anticipating Future Limiters of Biotech Applications - Joe Damond
    Nov 17, 2024 – 39:26
  • Apeel: A Solution to Food Waste - Jenny Du
    Nov 9, 2024 – 26:26
  • Trees that Survive Citrus Greening - Gary England
    Oct 19, 2024 – 48:58
  • The New Face of Anti-Ag Pseudoscience - Vance Crowe
    Oct 12, 2024 – 45:25
  • Biotech Enhancement of Protein in World Staple Crops - Dr. Ling Li
    Oct 5, 2024 – 26:53
  • The GMO Tree You Never Heard About - Dr. Chris Dardick, USDA/ARS
    Aug 17, 2024 – 32:21
  • Anti-GMO Hawaii Memories; A Career in Ag Science - Dr. Steve Savage
    Aug 10, 2024 – 57:24
  • Enabling Local Production of Protein Therapeutics - Dr. Kerry Love, Sunflower Therapeutics
    Aug 4, 2024 – 33:01
  • Measuring the Health of T-Cells - Dr. Nigel McCracken, Virax Biolabs
    Jul 27, 2024 – 48:41
  • Resistance to Correction, Breaking Trust in Science - Drs. Andrea Love and Nicole Keller
    Jul 21, 2024 – 42:12
  • Your Role in Editing Wikipedia - Susan Gerbic
    Jun 29, 2024 – 40:40
  • Gene Editing in Specialty Crops - Dr. Tom Adams, CEO Pairwise
    Jun 22, 2024 – 30:14
  • Special Panel - From Pre-Clinical to Clinical Trials
    Jun 15, 2024 – 31:41
  • Talking Biotech Begins Year 10! with Dr. Liza Dunn
    Jun 8, 2024 – 01:01:40
  • Targeting Chronic Inflammation Via the Inflamasome - Dr. David Bearss
    Jun 2, 2024 – 45:40
  • Development of Biotech Partnerships
    May 25, 2024 – 28:20
  • Journal Club - Were "High Levels" of Glyphosate Found in Sperm? - Dr. Andrea Love
    May 22, 2024 – 26:39
  • Standardizing Therapeutic Protein Production in Plants - Jim Wilson
    May 18, 2024 – 46:01
  • Canadian Rules for Gene Editing - Jennifer Hubert
    May 11, 2024 – 25:08
  • Overcoming CAR-T Cell Bottlenecks - Dr. Andy Scharenberg
    May 4, 2024 – 44:48
  • The FDA Regulatory Ecosystem- Expert Panel Discusses the Process
    Apr 27, 2024 – 59:41
  • The Psychology of Risk - Dr. Felicia Wu
    Apr 20, 2024 – 39:43
  • Restoring the Forest with GE American Chestnut - Dr. Andy Newhouse and Erik Carlson
    Apr 6, 2024 – 29:57
  • Addressing Disparities in Women's Healthcare - Sabrina Johnson, CEO Daré Bioscience
    Mar 30, 2024 – 38:20
  • Return of Talking Biotech; Stories in the News
    Mar 23, 2024 – 28:59
  • Temporary Hiatus, Changes Coming!
    Nov 27, 2023 – 05:57
  • A Novel RNAi Approach to Crop Protection - Todd Hauser
    Nov 18, 2023 – 33:54
  • Drugs from the Rainforest - Lisa Conte
    Nov 11, 2023 – 40:15
  • Proposed Gene Editing Changes in the EU -Dr. Emma Kovak
    Nov 4, 2023 – 47:24
  • "On Disinformation" Critical Conversations in the Post-Truth Era- Dr. Lee McIntyre
    Oct 28, 2023 – 51:54
  • Therapeutics Controlling Protein Turnover - Dr. Juliet Williams
    Oct 21, 2023 – 38:18
  • Biohacking, DIY Biotech- Opportunities and Ethics with David Ishee
    Oct 14, 2023 – 47:42
  • Rapid Detection of Dangerous Pathogens - Dr. Brad Perkins
    Oct 7, 2023 – 39:07
  • The Pawpaw: History and Genetic Improvement - Adam D'Angelo
    Sep 30, 2023 – 30:23
  • In The News: Citrus Greening Disease Update; Dangerous Seed Oils? Cameron English
    Sep 24, 2023 – 40:59
  • Dogmatism Meets Unpopular Evidence: the Case of Second-Hand Smoke - Dr. Geoffrey Kabat
    Sep 17, 2023 – 57:38
  • A Non-Profit Biotech Model; Therapies for Rare Diseases - Dr. Ashley Winslow
    Sep 9, 2023 – 47:12
  • Understanding Your Genetics with 23andMe - Dr. Joyce Tung
    Sep 2, 2023 – 35:50
  • Biotechnology in the Crime Lab - Brian Hoey
    Aug 26, 2023 – 55:05
  • The Shill Accusation and How to Respond - Dr. Chris MacDonald
    Aug 19, 2023 – 29:58
Recent Reviews
  • HooperParents
    Science based
    Great science based podcast that explains it to my level. Thanks for the continued work.
  • Movie Minifan
    Great Podcast!
    There are not enough fantastic scientific resources like this. It is unbiased, accurate and educational. In this world of science misinformation, I applaud Dr. Flora for being a steady voice for objective evidence-based reason.
  • johnburstleton
    Follow “the science”
    the e-mails show that Folta did receive an unrestricted US$25,000 grant last year from Monsanto, which noted that the money “may be used at your discretion in support of your research and outreach projects”. Folta says that the funds are earmarked for a proposed University of Florida programme on communicating biotechnology.
  • blankenstein9191
    Great biotech podcast with wide array of topics
    This is a fantastic podcast that looks at a broad array of biotech topics ranging from medicine, genetics, agriculture, conservation, and many more. The conversations start at a high enough level to be of value to laymen and non experts but also drill down to specifics that can be deeply informative to those working in biotech. Overall, a really great podcast that anyone interested in or trying to stay up to date with the rapidly evolving biotech landscape should follow
  • rmatuz
    Fascinating show
    This is a great podcast with a lot of really fascinating episodes. I have to admit that I’ve been on the fence about GMOs but Kevin Folta has really challenged me to think more clearly about this issue.
  • Dr Abrown
    Whats with the arrogent and narrow minded mock advert?
    Let me say on the topic of biotechnology its a good podcast and I like that part of it. However I am moving on... On episode 302 at the 11min mark there was an odd "Deep Voice" advert which trashed a number of topics which the podcast host considers to be fake information and that as a scientist you should be a local champion of scientific information and inform people on how their uncientific ideas are wrong etc. I am a PhD in Immunology and am serious about UFO research. The podcast host directly trashes the whole Ufology field as pseudoscience which is compleatly narrow minded and just makes the host look ignorant. This is tottaly unnecessary and has nothing to do with the conversation with the guest or biotechnology in general.
  • SAARKÉSH
    A Podcast with Potential
    Interesting topics but the annoying background elevator music takes away from getting fully engaged.
  • marzipanorangutan
    Very informative and easy to understand!
    Excellent resource for people who are looking to get a better understanding of what GMOs are, how they work, and their place in humanity’s history of agriculture, as well as how they can be a tool against climate change and human suffering. Kevin Folta cares deeply about helping the general public understand science so they can form educated opinions on this important this important topic.
  • AustrailianaAsian
    Why aren’t you listening already?
    I’ve been a fan of this podcast for several years and it continually delivers strong science, interesting conversations, and great ideas. The podcast only continues to improve as more episodes are released.
  • Emmeceede
    Great Biotech Discussions
    I am really glad that I came across this while looking for science podcasts. This covers a wide variety of biotech innovations and issues, including public perception of and controversies surrounding biotechnology. I have been listening for several months now and continue to enjoy the way that they dive into the topics.
  • Celina4**¥
    Great science educational podcast
    I’m a small farmer in Washington and have been listening to talking biotech podcast for 3 years. It’s wonderful education while I work in the strawberry fields. I often share them with my daughter studying molecular biology in college. Thank you so much for sharing the work of biological science and agriculture. You make a unique show that enriched my agricultural work Farmer Joe
  • TheReal_Joe_
    Love it!
    Super helpful and very detailed. As someone who wants to get into Biotech, I find the length of the podcast excellent. Always good content and great guests.
  • StueyNU
    Many thanks.
    Recently became aware of your podcast. In addition... also informed of the U of F decision to fold under political/personal pressure. We can only hope that you will find a more welcoming home to base your efforts. It seems that “the truth” has become elusive in our country. Sad days indeed.
  • Ben.jam.in.
    Fantastic podcast!
    Thoughtful, analytical discussion of complicated topics in easily understood manner. Love it.
  • chumbelone
    Concerned citizen
    Excellent coverage on the science of our food and medicine production. Highlights the deliberate mis and disinformation campaigns in US and across the globe. Required listening.
  • Hrutger
    Nice!
    I love that this podcast discusses the potential of biotech to make real positive impacts in people’s lives. The host is friendly, easygoing and relatable, and he helps translate complexities of the biotech field for audiences that are likely less experienced with it than he is. I like that the host and his guests often recognize the public’s hesitancy about biotech solutions, and they talk about the necessity of a cautious approach while retaining optimism about biotech advances.
  • Moron Rehab
    Excellent Science Based Podcast
    Recently discovered this podcast. So many wonderful science-based solutions to many of our current problems are found in the world of biotech. I appreciate the efforts of Dr. Folta as he uses his own resources to put forth information about these current and future solutions to questions many people have about problems being encountered in agriculture and medicine. Great informational resource!
  • Eduardo021
    Amazing work!
    Dr. Kevin Folta's biotech podcast is truly one of a kind. He speaks on all issues small and large regarding biotechnogly from the actual molecular mechanisms of new innovations to the social problems that come with with them. Perfect for anybody, but especially helpful, educational and entertaining for a young aspiring scientist in college, like myself.
  • Paul Ott
    Information for everyone
    Talking Biotech has a rich selection of guests and Kevin does a great job asking questions so those of us who do not work in the biotech field can understand the purpose and details of the guest's work. I'm looking forward to next week's episode!
  • MizzouFit
    great podcast for new perspectives on biotech
    most of the episodes have some close relavnce to my work and my interest areas. i like the general closeness to science the episodes keep with evidence driving the talks and discussions. good science that is. good diversity of topics, good experts and good examples of biotech in ag, food and medicine.
  • christianmingles
    Thanks
    So thankful for this podcast. Helps me see through all the hippy nonsense
  • Emilygddthgddjb
    Great education!
    I’ve been wanting to increase my knowledge in this area and this is perfect. I don’t have much background and it’s at a good level. I’ve listened to four episodes and plan to listen all the way through!!
  • dkushmer
    Plain Speak
    At first, the title “Talking Biotech” made me think “I will not be able to understand a single word” nothing could be further from the truth. Dr. Folta and his guests bring science to America. I am fascinated as to how well I can understand the content and value the education it provides.
  • MikeT1982
    Great Introduction to the Field
    As a physicist with a limited grasp of bio, this podcast has been a great way to get some perspective on what's going on in the field.
  • Samuel Longlegs
    Getting better every episode!
    I love this podcast and its drive to fight Anti-Intellectualism! Thank you Dr. Folta for your work. I am going to school with the pipe dream end goal of studying human evolution through comparative genomics but I want more of a background in functional genomics as well. I have been listening now for several months and love what you did in 062 by showcasing evolutionary genomics. I would love to see you collaborate once in a while with other more pop-sci podcasts like StarTalk, 99% invisible, or Stuff You Should Know. Thank you for your work.
  • deplorable in california
    Excellent!
    One of my favorite podcasts and a great source of information
  • Graham Ellis
    Episode 84
    Good morning and good episode. My name is Graham and I am a PhD student at Washington State University Pullman working on potato physiology. I wanted to briefly update the both of you that in fact there is a bred cultivar of potato which has whole plant (as opposed to just in the foliage or roots/tubers) resistance to late blight. The cultivar is Payette Russet and it was bred by Dr. Rich Novy of the USDA-ARS Aberdeen in collaboration with the Pacific Northwest Variety Development Program (PNWVDP). I believe it was released for sale in 2015. It also has resistance to resistance to verticillium wilt, corky ringspot, early blight, common scab, and potato virus Y (PVY). The future is now! Cheers gentlemen
  • rokgod7
    Ignore the Fearmongers
    Kevin does an amazing job explaining the science that helps people around the world eat healthy, or sometimes just eat at all. Yet people who know nothing about this science, and for whom no evidence would ever be enough to convince them there's no evidence it's harmful, trash him, the science they don't understand, and anyone who supports it. If you trust loud jerks on the internet who love to insult people over peer-reviewed journals and controlled studies, this isn't the podcast for you. Everyone else...enjoy.
  • wwrafter
    Excellent info
    Science rocks! It doesn't always support your position, but it's not under any obligation to do so.
  • Pher_Zacek
    Keep up educating the public
    A highly recommended podcast, I love the show and listen on my way to work, keep up the great work and never desist to spread the goods of technology and food.
  • Already taken6896543
    Great science
    Informative show about things I took for granted - plant science and food technology. He explains how unscary GMOs really are. Sometimes sound quality ain't the best but it's worth it.
  • Mitch Roth
    Educational and Honest
    Biotech is a hot button issue, and can be intimidating to try and learn about on your own through internet searches. This podcast has reputable sources in every episode, and discusses the potential benefits of biotechnology, while honestly addressing potential unknowns and admitting when there are questions that scientists don't have the answer to...yet.
  • BootyBeaver
    Honest podcast on GMO science
    This podcast is a great resource to learn the scientific facts surrounding GMO products. I can honestly say that I never knew how to discuss the subject of genetically modified crops prior to listening, and often just got swept up in the mass fear that surrounds these innovations. Now I understand what an amazing tool genetic modification is for certain aspects of agriculture, and how supportive the science is to its safety and adoption. Thanks and keep up the good work Kevin!
  • Some Guy from Monsanto
    Opening up a scary topic
    What a great show to find- I particularly love when you tell the stories of plant domestication. Always so open, interested and wanting to share. This is a really great science show.
  • DmSchranck
    Great information!
    The very best place to learn what is going on with agricultural technology!
  • wildingb
    Plant biology
    Great podcast to learn about inside the plants. During the discussions the author and his guests cover basic concepts such as physiology/genetics/biochemistry of plant biology. There is also alot of history of plant science as well.
  • Debbie338
    Science Communication At Its Best
    Scientific advancements can be difficult for a lot of people to understand, especially in a field as complex as genetics. People fear what they don't understand. Dr. Folta does a terrific job of trying to make a tricky and complicated subject interesting and easier to grasp.
  • A Food Sci PhD Student
    Great lab work listening!
    So informative. As a PhD student, I love listening to this while working in the lab. Nice way to gain exposure to biotech! Esp enjoyed the episode w/ advice for women in science.
  • J Wilburn
    Yes!
    An excellent Podcast. I have a B.S. in nutrition and dietetics and am working as a nutrition counselor. I often listen to Kevin Folta on my commute to work, and although the topics are not often directly related to my work, the information and perspectives certainly contribute to my overall understanding of food, science, and the cool stuff that happens when you put those together! As someone who values science- and evidence-based information (and the translation of this info to lay people like me), I am grateful for the Talking Biotech podcast!
  • BUrban66
    Incredible stories
    If you are looking for a science podcast that combines inspiring stories with persuasive data, Talking Biotech is a great choice. Dr. Kevin Folta is unwavering in his commitment to help educate and inform us about agricultural and medical advances and challenges.
  • lagomcurt
    I never miss it
    This is one podcast I never miss. It's so important that there is a voice of reason in the GE discussion. Kevin provides that, and shares his time with some of the most interesting people in related fields.
  • Farmer - Jed
    Front edge of food and plant technology!
    I have more questions than I have answers. This is one place that I can get solid info and answers to many of my unknowns. Thank you Dr. Folta.
  • Polyman
    Learn new things every episode
    Chock full of info on the foods we all enjoy. Fascinating discussions of the people, ideas, and methods used to grow and breed common and unusual plant foods. I especially enjoy hearing where foods originally came from and how they got to "the west".
  • Alextastique
    Very Refreshing
    Its very important to hear about the positive impact of Biotech.This program will hopefully make people understand more about scientific endeavors and thus remove any fears marketed to them.
  • Pelihelper
    Love it
    Very informative and important.
  • SpartyRock!
    Very educational and interesting
    Listening to this podcast is the highlight of my podcast lineup for the week. I love learning new info about biotech and it's applications from the experts.
  • Helen E Fischer
    Fascinating
    I'm so happy to hear Dr Folta and Talking Biotech are back on the air! He is one of the best science educators, giving us insights into complicated questions and their answers. His guests are fascinating and offer their expertise in a way that most lay people will be able to understand.
  • gskibum
    My Favorite
    This is hands-down my favorite podcast ever. The topics discussed are so very interesting, the plight of the American chestnut tree, citrus greening disease, banana blight, malaria, hornless dairy cows, and so much more. Folta does an excellent job of extracting the information from the guests in a way that the layperson can understand. Too bad Folta had to yield to pressure from the anti-biotech terrorists and suspend the podcast.
  • the.euda
    can has science?
    The podcast with theScibabe made me laugh and is where I found this podcast. I don’t know much about biotech but I like to learn and this has made me re-evaluate some of my opinions. So thanks for that.
  • Debbeygjevuyerhjop
    Fantastic Science podcast!
    This podcast discusses the use of incredible biotechnology to address problems around the world. It's a great example of effective science communication and everyone should give it a listen
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