Ian Sample, The Guardian’s science editor, dives deep into the evolving landscape of COVID-19 this autumn. He dissects the emergence of the new variant XEC, its global spread, and what it means for UK health. There’s a focus on the upcoming vaccination campaign, including who qualifies for booster shots as flu season approaches. Sample also shares powerful stories from healthcare workers, illuminating the stark realities behind the statistics. Lastly, he reflects on the lessons learned to better prepare for future health crises.

Jillian Ambrose, an energy correspondent, discusses the historic transition away from coal, marking the end of an era in Britain’s energy landscape. Employees Peter and Pete share heartfelt reflections on their careers at the Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station as it powers down for the last time. They capture the bittersweet emotions of farewell amidst pride in their work and uncertainty about the future. The trio also explores advancements in cleaner energy technologies and the global implications of moving away from coal, emphasizing the urgent need for climate action.

Prof. Helen Findlay, a biological oceanographer at the Plymouth Marine Laboratory, dives into the alarming state of our oceans. She explains how rising carbon dioxide levels are pushing ocean acidity towards critical thresholds, threatening marine ecosystems. The discussion touches on the struggles faced by calcifying organisms like corals and shellfish. Innovative solutions, such as enhancing natural carbon sinks like seagrasses and exploring new technologies, offer hope as they tackle the urgent challenges posed by climate change.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Saul Newman, an interdisciplinary researcher from UCL and Oxford, discusses his Ig Nobel-winning work on claims of extraordinary longevity. He reveals how many centenarian claims stem from underreported lifespans and common clerical errors. Dr. Newman debunks the myths surrounding blue zones, arguing that wealth and safety, rather than lifestyle, are more crucial for a long life. He also addresses the inconsistencies in age reporting among supercentenarians and the need for more rigorous demographic studies.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Ian Sample, a science editor at the Guardian, and Tony Prescott, a professor of computational neuroscience, dive into the potential of AI as a companion. They explore the emotional connections we can form with AI, questioning whether these bonds can truly satisfy our need for companionship. The conversation touches on the rising loneliness crisis, particularly among youth, and the ethical dilemmas of using AI in grieving. They also highlight the importance of genuine human connections while reimagining AI's role in our lives.

Dr. Laura Pritschet, a postdoctoral fellow in psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania, reveals groundbreaking research on brain changes during pregnancy. She discusses how continuous scans showcase dynamic transformations that enhance maternal abilities rather than indicate decline. The conversation highlights the historical neglect of women's health in neuroscience, calling for more attention to female-specific issues. These insights could improve our understanding of maternal mental health challenges, like postpartum depression.

Nicola Davis, a science correspondent for The Guardian focusing on health topics, joins to discuss groundbreaking weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. These medications, originally for diabetes, show promise in treating chronic conditions, including dementia and heart disease. The conversation highlights the role of GLP-1 hormones and their cardiovascular benefits backed by compelling research. Davis explores how these drugs might influence health beyond weight loss, sparking new preventive healthcare strategies for our aging population.

Hannah Devlin, a science correspondent, dives into groundbreaking studies and urgent health news. She shares a thrilling method using food dye to make skin transparent, akin to an 'Invisible Man' twist. The conversation turns to the alarming first human case of bird flu without prior animal contact. Devlin also discusses a revealing study highlighting accelerated brain aging in girls during Covid, uncovering potential long-term mental health implications. With each topic, she showcases the fascinating and sometimes alarming developments in modern science.

Damian Carrington, an environment editor who boldly ventured to Greenland with scientists, joins interviewer Madeleine Finlay to discuss their groundbreaking expedition. They explore the uncharted abyss beneath the glaciers, investigating how ice and sea interact and the implications for rising sea levels. The conversation reveals the innovative technologies used, like the NERID Underwater submersible, and the urgency of understanding glacial dynamics in the context of climate change. Their findings could reshape our understanding of this critical issue.

Trudie Lang, a professor of global health research and director at the University of Oxford, discusses the urgent mpox outbreak declared a global health emergency. She highlights the alarming emergence of the Clade 1b strain and its unique transmission dynamics. Lang delves into the historical context of mpox in Africa and the recent global outbreak, emphasizing the critical role of vaccines and collaborative public health strategies. Ethical concerns in science, particularly AI's influence on health responses, also take center stage.