How To Academy Podcast

Science journalist Rebecca Boyle discusses the cultural history and future of the moon, highlighting its impact on historical events and ancient stone monuments aligned with lunar phases. She explores Julius Caesar's calendar reform and the mysteries of moon rocks, touching on the sacred aura of lunar samples and ethical concerns in commercial moon exploration.

Neuroscientist Clayton Page Aldern and Dr Xand van Tulleken discuss the harrowing effects of the climate crisis on our physical and neurological wellbeing, from psychiatric risks on unborn babies to neurotoxic algal blooms. They explore how rising temperatures impact cognitive function and decision-making, emphasizing the urgent need for interdisciplinary collaboration and policymakers to address the neurological costs of climate change.

Psychotherapist Emma Reed Turrell discusses breaking free from unconscious blind spots that affect relationships and judgment. She introduces four blind spot profiles - The Hustler, Gladiator, Bridge, or Rock - and provides practical tools for navigating relationships with clarity and fulfillment. Learn how to reduce friction in relationships and live a happier life.

Christiana Figueres and guests discuss humanity's separation from nature, exploring the impact of farming and religious narratives. They delve into the roots of patriarchy, advocate for rediscovering human nature, and envision a regenerative future through interconnected systems. A poetic reflection on self-discovery and connection with nature adds a poignant touch to the conversation.

Science writer Philip Ball discusses contemporary science revelations about life, RNA structures, and evolution. Examines the genome as a resource for cells, challenges deterministic views, and explores fuzzy engineering in biology. Highlights genetic influence on vascular system development and challenges generalizations in evolution. Explores cell states in cancer and contemplates the universe's purpose through a philosophical lens.

Gary Stevenson, the youngest and most profitable trader in the city, shares his journey of betting against the economy. Topics include the intense atmosphere of the trading floor, unexpected profits during a financial crisis, the duality of wealth and personal fulfillment, ethical dilemmas of wealth and responsibility, reflections on wealth inequality, and exploring the housing crisis and wealth disparities.

Classicists Mary Beard and Jo Quinn challenge the conventional view of Western civilization's origins, exploring hidden histories of women in Roman and Persian civilizations. They discuss reevaluating ancient civilizations, evolving perspectives on civilizations, and navigating complexities of ancient history, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of historical narratives.

Neuroscientist Charan Ranganath discusses memory's flawed nature, its impact on learning and decision-making. The podcast explores music's connection to memory, emotional triggers, and memory distortion. It touches on shared memories' evolution, memory's role in identity, visual perception, and emotional memory recall.

Harvard psychiatrist Christopher Palmer delves into a metabolic approach to mental health, discussing the impact of diet on mental wellbeing. Topics include the generational effects of sweeteners on mental health, dietary strategies for metabolic health, and how to reclaim mental wellness through practical advice.

Diplomat Christiana Figueres and former Unilever CEO Paul Polman discuss the importance of the 1.5 degrees Celsius target in fighting climate change. They explore the dilemma between 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius, the impact of historical notions of superiority on nature, and the need for corporations to shift towards sustainable profit. The conversation also delves into embracing pain for social change and the intersection of personal responsibility and systemic transformation.