How It Ticks: The Swiss Culture, Business & Life Podcast

Laura Hackl, an expert in protein science and sustainability, dives into the future of food and alternative proteins. She discusses the differences between animal and plant-based proteins, the science behind creating meat substitutes, and the ethical implications of lab-grown options. Laura shares her experience with ProFillet, a fish alternative, and the challenges of taste and nutrition in plant-based foods. She highlights the disconnect between nutrition research and real-world applications, emphasizing the need for effective communication in improving public health.

In this discussion, economist Melanie Häner-Müller, head of Social Policy at the Institute for Swiss Economic Policy, dives deep into wealth and social mobility in Switzerland. She explains why income inequality has remained stable for over a century, contrasting public perception with reality. The talk highlights how personal choices, like marriage, can influence long-term inequality and the unique factors that contribute to Switzerland's consistently low income disparity. Melanie also addresses the growing wealth gap and its implications for social policies.

Melanie Häner-Müller, an economist leading the social policy division at the Institute for Swiss Economic Policy, discusses the realities of wealth and social mobility in Switzerland. She explains how social mobility is defined and measured, highlighting the influence of family background. The conversation explores Switzerland's impressive income mobility contrasted with lagging educational mobility. Melanie also compares Switzerland to other countries like Germany and the U.S., shedding light on historical trends and the complexities of contemporary wealth distribution.

In this insightful discussion, Lisa Falco, a data scientist and digital health expert with a PhD in Biomedical Imaging, reveals the often-overlooked truths about fertility. She discusses the impact of age on conception and how external factors like microplastics can affect pregnancy. Lisa also tackles the emotional strains of miscarriage and the societal pressures women face during their fertility journeys. Additionally, she busts common myths about conception, emphasizing the importance of understanding women's health for better outcomes.

Dive into the fascinating world of fertility with a data scientist and women’s health expert. Explore how age, stress, and lifestyle choices impact conception. Discover the role of wearable technology in tracking ovulation and fertility predictions. Debunk popular myths about conception, including timing and lifestyle choices. Understand the intertwined relationship between stress and reproductive health. Plus, examine how women’s bodies adapt during pregnancy and childbirth, shedding light on the emotional and physical transformations.

Philip Nitschke, Director of Exit International and pioneer in voluntary euthanasia, shares his groundbreaking journey as the first doctor to administer a legal lethal injection. He dives into the controversial Sarco Pod, a user-friendly approach to assisted suicide, and recounts the emotional experiences surrounding its first use. Nitschke discusses the ongoing Swiss investigations, the implications for mental health, and the complexities of global assisted dying laws, making a compelling case for personal autonomy in end-of-life decisions.

Philip Nitschke, Director at Exit International and a groundbreaking figure in assisted suicide, explores his journey as the first doctor to perform a legal voluntary lethal injection. He discusses the intense emotional challenges he faced and the ongoing Swiss investigation into the Sarco Pod, a controversial device for assisted dying. Nitschke delves into mental health and age considerations in these decisions and examines the impact of The Peaceful Pill Handbook on the global assisted dying debate, questioning the ethical implications and future of end-of-life autonomy.

Stefan Legge, Vice Director and Head of Tax & Trade Policy at the University of St. Gallen, explores the intricate world of global economics. He emphasizes the critical importance of free trade agreements for Switzerland and shares insights on U.S. tariffs and their implications. The discussion includes Argentina's drastic government cuts and the lessons learned from that experience. Stefan also addresses managing national debt and highlights Switzerland's economic stability, with a surprising take on Bitcoin's future role in finance.

Stefan Legge, Vice Director and Head of Tax & Trade Policy at the University of St. Gallen, shares his expertise on global economics. He discusses the critical importance of free trade agreements for Switzerland, especially with major powers like China and India. Stefan reveals the potential fallout from U.S. tariffs and draws lessons from Argentina’s drastic government cuts. He also explores Switzerland's unique approach to managing national debt and contemplates Bitcoin's future role in finance, offering valuable insights for anyone intrigued by economic trends.

Caroline Lustenberger, a PhD sleep researcher from ETH Zurich, dives deep into the science of sleep. Learn why the 8-hour rule isn't one-size-fits-all and how factors like screen time and caffeine affect your slumber. She debunks myths about sleep supplements and explores the benefits and drawbacks of sleep trackers. Caroline also discusses her innovative Herencia initiative, which connects sleep science with Alzheimer’s prevention, offering actionable tips to enhance your nightly rest.