Discovery

Primatologist Catherine Hobaiter shares her passion for observing chimpanzees in Uganda's rainforests, delving into the soap opera-like dynamics of chimp troupes. Sara Dykman's 10,201 mile bicycle journey tracking monarch butterfly migration highlights the challenges of conservation and inspiring encounters with nature and children along the way.

Zookeeper and sea lion trainer Mae Betts joins Ben Garrod and Jess French to discuss the intelligence and unique anatomical adaptations of California sea lions. They explore the sea lion's senses, dental structure, blubber layer, and internal physiology. The podcast delves into how pollutants affect sea lions, the insulating properties of blubber, and the fascinating kidney structure and adaptability of these marine mammals.

The tiny sap-sucking aphid, at just a few millimetres long, is the scourge of many gardeners and crop-growers worldwide, spreading astonishingly rapidly and inflicting huge damage as it seeks to outwit many host plants’ natural defences. With insights and guidance from aphid expert George Seddon-Roberts at the John Innes Centre, Norwich, some delicate dissecting tools, and a state of the art microscope, Prof Ben Garrod and Dr Jess French delve inside this herbivorous insect to unravel the anatomy and physiology that has secured its extraordinary reproductive success, whilst offering new clues as to how we could curtail its damaging impact in the future.Co-Presenters: Ben Garrod and Jess French Executive producer: Adrian Washbourne Producer: Ella Hubber Editor: Martin Smith Production co-ordinator: Jana Bennett-Holesworth

Prof Ben Garrod and Dr Jess French delve into the unique diet and physical characteristics of the bearded vulture, exploring how it consumes bones and the anatomy of its esophagus. They also discuss the specialized respiratory system of birds and the bearded vulture's digestive system, highlighting its stomach acid's ability to dissolve bones for nutrients.

Professor Ben Garrod, an evolutionary biologist, and Dr. Jess French explore the unique anatomy and evolutionary history of the red kangaroo. They discuss the kangaroo's powerful legs, reproductive system, and surprising adaptations for surviving in the harsh Australian outback. The podcast delves into the kangaroo's specialized locomotion techniques, anatomy of its foot and tail, and the fascinating functions of its tail for balance and manipulation.

In this podcast, Hannah Fry delves into stories of discovery and data. From uncovering bias in healthcare algorithms to revealing errors in debt data analysis, the episodes explore the impact of flawed systems on society. The discussions highlight the importance of transparency and fairness in algorithmic decision-making and the consequences of data errors on economic policies.

Explore the diverse experiences and cultural attitudes towards menopause worldwide, debunking myths and clarifying misconceptions. Learn about the physiological changes and symptoms of menopause, including hot flushes, incontinence, and psychological impacts. Discover treatment options like hormone replacement therapy and lifestyle changes, and the importance of workplace awareness and empathy towards menopausal symptoms. Delve into historical and cultural perspectives on menopause, highlighting liberation, freedom, and the need for education and support.

Hannah Fry explores two more tales of data and discovery.Gossip and rumour are plaguing a tile manufacturing company. The chatter is pulling morale to new lows, and amid it all, a question hangs in the air: who is spreading it? Can the science of networks find out? And, what is the secret to ageing well? One man believes he may have found the beginnings of an answer, and it is hiding in a convent.Produced by: Ilan Goodman and Lauren Armstrong Carter

Discover the surprising U-shaped pattern of happiness across different ages, challenging misconceptions about midlife crises. Explore the correlation between human and great apes' well-being and the impact of life stages on happiness. Dive into intriguing data analysis and decision-making processes based on graphs and patterns.

Discover the shocking truth behind a forged will implicating a doctor in suspicious events. Uncover Shipman's deadly deeds through statistical analysis. Explore the mystery of train disruptions in Singapore and the impact of social media on algorithmic divisions among youth.