The podcast episodes highlight various challenges and limitations with traditional research funding channels, such as government grants and industry-sponsored research.

In Episode 169, Dave Feldman discusses how he had to turn to crowdfunding through the Citizen Science Foundation to support his research on the ketogenic diet and cholesterol, as he faced difficulties obtaining funding through traditional means.

The episodes also explore the biases and conflicts of interest that can arise when research is funded by industries with a vested interest, such as the food and pharmaceutical industries, as discussed in Episode 399.

Furthermore, the episodes touch on the need for new models and approaches to funding research, including the potential for venture capital funding of university research, as explored in Fixing Higher Education & New Startup Opportunities.