The world, the universe and us
New Scientist
From the evolution of intelligent life, to the mysteries of consciousness; from the threat of the climate crisis to the search for dark matter, The world, the universe and us is your essential weekly dose of science and wonder in an uncertain world. Hosted by journalists Dr Rowan Hooper and Dr Penny Sarchet and joined each week by expert scientists in the field, the show draws on New Scientist’s unparalleled depth of reporting to put the stories that matter into context. Feed your curiosity with the podcast that will restore your sense of optimism and nourish your brain.For more visit newscientist.com/podcasts
Episodes
Mentioned books
27 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 25min
How exercise shrinks tumours and starves cancer; Weird molecules found on comet 3I/ATLAS; Einstein v Bohr on the nature of light
Joining the discussion are Alex Wilkins, a science journalist focused on astronomy, and Jacob Aron, who specializes in physics. They explore groundbreaking research showing that exercise can shrink tumors in mice by up to 60% by starving cancer cells of glucose. Alex dives into the surprising chemical findings from comet 3I/ATLAS, revealing its potential implications for the origin of life. Jacob sheds light on the resolution of the century-old Einstein-Bohr debate, showcasing how a recent experiment has validated Bohr's theory about the dual nature of light.
26 snips
Nov 28, 2025 • 39min
The evolution of sperm and the enduring mystery of the scrotum; How our brain rewires itself 4 times in life; The (real) disaster scenarios of imminent climate breakdown
Sam Wong, an insightful science reporter, dives into the fascinating evolutionary journey of sperm, revealing surprising origins that predate animals. Health reporter Carissa Wong discusses groundbreaking MRI research showing that our brains undergo significant rewiring at four key life stages, with implications for understanding mental health. Michael Le Page shares alarming insights from the National Emergency Briefing, where experts warned about escalating climate risks, including starvation and societal chaos, yet offered messages of hope and empowerment for effective action.
10 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 31min
The origin and evolution of music: Steve Pretty plays the conch
Steve Pretty, a talented musician and bandleader of the Hackney Colliery Band, takes us on a captivating journey into the world of conch shells and music's origins. He performs live, showcasing how conches can produce various notes through clever manipulation of air pressure. Steve dives into the evolution of music, positing it may predate language, and explains the cultural significance of music across societies, from ceremonies to emotional expressions. Plus, his insights on the co-evolution of instruments and spaces deepen our understanding of sound.
21 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 45min
New genome of ancient human; 95% of us have a dormant virus that causes disease; Formula E cars faster than F1; Bill Bryson joins the pod!
Bestselling science writer Bill Bryson joins the discussion, sharing insights from revising his acclaimed work, including shocking updates on Denisovans and new astronomical discoveries. Meanwhile, Alec Luhn dives into the race between Formula E and traditional F1 cars, revealing how electric vehicles are closing the performance gap. They explore our dormant Epstein-Barr virus and its surprising links to autoimmune diseases. Bryson’s journey in making science accessible is a highlight, as well as the thrilling advancements in electric motorsport technology.
11 snips
Nov 13, 2025 • 29min
Why the claims about Hitler’s genome are misleading
Turi King, a geneticist known for her forensic DNA work, explores the implications of sequencing Adolf Hitler's genome. She addresses the risks of genetic determinism, emphasizing that DNA does not dictate behavior. Historian Alex Kay adds historical context, cautioning against sensationalism and the importance of understanding Hitler's upbringing. New Scientist reporter Michael Le Page critiques the documentary's framing, highlighting how it could mislead viewers into overemphasizing genetics rather than understanding the broader societal factors at play.
22 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 32min
COP30: The world's climate future hinges on this meeting
Simon Evans, a climate journalist at Carbon Brief, and Rupert Read, a climate philosopher and director of the Climate Majority Project, delve into the pressing challenges of COP30. They discuss the shortcomings of past climate pledges and the impact of the U.S.'s absence, highlighting the role of subnational actors. The guests debate the effectiveness of the COP process and propose alternative approaches like climate clubs. They also stress the need for prioritizing adaptation over mitigation, scrutinizing adaptation metrics and associated finance shortfalls.
26 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 24min
The collapse of America’s health data system; How sleep affects your focus; Life on Mars in liquid veins?
Grace Wade, a seasoned US health reporter, discusses the alarming consequences of recent Department of Health layoffs on crucial public health surveys. Carissa Wong sheds light on a fascinating study about how sleep deprivation disrupts focus through the brain's cerebrospinal fluid 'rinse cycle.' Leah Crane reveals exciting research suggesting the presence of liquid water veins in Martian permafrost, sparking hopes for microbial life on the Red Planet. These urgent topics unveil the intricate links between health data, sleep, and the search for life beyond Earth.
33 snips
Oct 24, 2025 • 29min
How mRNA vaccines teach your body to kill cancer; Grim state of climate action; Why birds sing the dawn chorus
Michael Le Page, a science journalist, discusses how mRNA vaccines have unexpectedly improved cancer immunotherapy outcomes, nearly doubling survival rates. Meanwhile, Sophie Boehm, a climate researcher, highlights alarming findings from the State of Climate Action 2025 report, revealing failures to meet Paris climate goals. They share the urgency of addressing issues like deforestation and coal reliance, while emphasizing the importance of global climate accountability. Lastly, they explore why birds sing at dawn, unveiling intriguing theories tied to light, melatonin, and social dynamics.
19 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 28min
Neuroscience of reality; Quest for dark matter; Folklore of geoscience (New Scientist Live Special)
In this engaging discussion, Anjana Khatwa, an Earth scientist and author, links Western geoscience with indigenous stories, revealing how Hawaiian volcanic folklore connects with geological processes. Chamkaur Ghag, a particle physicist, shares insights about the LZ Dark Matter Experiment and underground detection challenges for elusive dark matter particles. Daniel Yon, a neuroscientist, explores how our brain shapes perception, influencing beliefs and susceptibility to conspiracy theories, while discussing the implications of reduced trust in our mental frameworks.
38 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 34min
First climate tipping point triggered; Man controls another person's body by brain implant; health worries over sumo wrestlers
Madeleine Cuff, an environment reporter for New Scientist, shares alarming insights on coral dieback as the first major climate tipping point is reached, highlighting its catastrophic global effects. Carissa Wong, a science journalist, discusses groundbreaking brain implant technology that enabled a paralyzed man to control another's hand, opening discussions on rehabilitation and ethical concerns. Sumo expert John Gunning reflects on the unique challenges and health risks of sumo wrestling, emphasizing the sport's impact on longevity and proposed safety measures.
