What in the World

Georgie Thorman, a BBC Learning English producer, discusses the fascinating journey of English from 1.5 billion speakers to its current global dominance. Discover how British colonization and American culture helped English spread and the emergence of hybrids like Spanglish. Linguist Linda Heimisdóttir analyzes English's internet supremacy and its implications for AI performance and cultural influences. She warns about potential digital language death for smaller languages as English continues to dominate online.

Chelsea Coates, a BBC journalist focused on digital culture, and Andy Przybylski, a behavior expert from Oxford, explore the surprising resurgence of brick phones. They discuss the motivations behind digital detox trends and the impact of screen time on young people's mental health. Chelsea highlights innovative apps and devices to curb phone use, while Andy debunks myths about smartphone addiction. Listeners gain insights into practical tips for healthier phone habits, emphasizing moderation and real-life connections.

When you think of AI, you might think of funny generated pictures, help with your homework and dating advice. But, do you think of the effect using it might be having on the environment? AI firms usually have huge data centres, which power the technology. And with that great usage, comes great amounts of energy zapped up by AI companies. There’s long been a rumour that every ChatGPT query you make uses one pint of water. So is there any truth to the claim? And is it damaging the world around us? We speak to tech reporter Laura Cress, who explains the environmental impacts of the technology. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Iqra Farooq Producers: Imogen James, Benita Barden and Mora Morrison Editor: Verity Wilde

Nicolas Maduro and his wife have been captured amid shocking US strikes on Venezuela, raising numerous questions about legality and international law. The US justifies its actions by linking Maduro to drug trafficking while highlighting Venezuela's oil reserves as a strategic interest. Responses from the Venezuelan public are mixed, reflecting desperation for change and ongoing support for Maduro. Discussions also reveal uncertainty about the future governance of Venezuela and regional anxieties about further US interventions.

A devastating fire broke out at a bar in Crans-Montana, leaving at least 40 dead and over 100 injured during New Year's celebrations. Eyewitnesses share harrowing tales of escape and the chaos as smoke filled the room. Bystanders made heroic efforts to assist victims, while an investigation is underway to determine the cause, possibly linked to champagne flares. The community grapples with grief as concerns about safety measures and building regulations arise, highlighting the impact of this tragedy on a tight-knit area.

Imogen James, a reporter with keen insights into fashion and body positivity, teams up with Norwegian model Karoline Bjornelykke, who has navigated the challenges of modeling at both straight and curve sizes. They delve into the troubling resurgence of skinny models in fashion despite the body positivity movement. Karoline shares her personal struggles with dieting pressures, while Imogen discusses alarming trends in runway diversity. They explore the impact of social media and weight-loss drugs, questioning whether this skinny trend will persist and advocating for greater diversity.

Caroline Steel, a science broadcaster, and Alan Walker, a Scottish microbiologist, dive into the truth behind gut health trends flooding social media. Steel explains the microbiome's role in mood and immunity while outlining signs of gut problems. She warns that many marketed products are ineffective. Walker assesses popular gut foods like chia seeds and sea moss, pointing out their limited benefits. Both guests agree that social media remedies often fall short; a medical check-up is crucial if you suspect gut issues.

Join BBC journalist Maia Davies as she delves into the electrifying world of romantasy—a genre fusing romance and fantasy with sweeping plots and beloved tropes. Maia breaks down why titles like ACOTAR are trending on BookTok, revealing the genre's explosive sales growth and commercial significance. She also explores the appeal of female-centric narratives that promise justice and happy endings, while fans share their love for the escapism these stories provide. Get ready to dive into the magic of romantasy!

Vitamin C, vitamin D, collagen, creatine, magnesium. All of them can be found in supermarkets, wellness shops and of course, online. These products, also known as supplements, have gained so much popularity that the global market has an estimated value of over $150 billion. But do they actually work and what’s the science behind them? The BBC’s Digital Health editor Michelle Roberts unpacks some of the most popular supplements for us. Plus we hear from people around the world about why they’ve decided to include them in their diet. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: William Lee Adams Producers: Chelsea Coates, Rio Rennalls and Maria Clara Montoya Editor: Emily Horler

Dive into the intriguing world of nostalgia, exploring why Gen Z embraces Y2K fashion and vintage tech. Discover how nostalgia functions psychologically, providing comfort and connection. Hear a unique perspective on 'saudade' in Lusophone culture, and the impact of online revivals like Marie Tusiama's Ivorian Y2K fashion. Learn about the bittersweet nature of nostalgic memories and the fine line between fondness and harmful dependence on the past. What trends from today will spark tomorrow's nostalgia? Join us for this captivating conversation!