Susie Dent, a beloved lexicographer and etymologist known from Channel 4's Countdown, shares her passion for the English language and its quirks. She discusses her debut crime novel, 'Guilt by Definition,' which cleverly intertwines her love for words and a mysterious disappearance. Dent humorously delves into unique vocabulary and the historical journey of dictionary-making, revealing how everyday people shaped the Oxford English Dictionary. The conversation beautifully highlights language’s evolution and its profound connections to storytelling and crime.

Lucy Foulkes, an academic psychologist from Oxford and author of 'Coming of Age', teams up with journalist Pandora Sykes to dive into the teenage mental health crisis. They explore how adolescence is a pivotal time shaped by peer pressure, social media, and risk-taking. Foulkes argues against blanket smartphone bans, suggesting that experiencing challenges is vital for development. They also discuss the impact of pornography on teens' perceptions of sex and the need for open dialogue around sexual education, highlighting the confusion surrounding extreme content.

Lucy Foulkes, an Oxford academic psychologist and author of 'Coming of Age', joins journalist Pandora Sykes to discuss the complexities of adolescent mental health. They challenge stereotypes about teenage behavior, emphasizing the role of social dynamics and the importance of personal experiences. Foulkes highlights the value of teenage love in shaping identity and addresses the challenges of sleep deprivation and social media. The conversation reveals how navigating popularity and peer pressure is crucial during these formative years.

Baroness Lola Young, a Member of the House of Lords and author of the memoir 'Eight Weeks,' shares her journey from foster care to the halls of power. Alongside journalist Habiba Katsha, they dive into the emotional complexities of revisiting her fragmented past and navigating identity in a strict Nigerian household. Lola highlights the challenges faced by young people aging out of the care system and advocates for their empowerment. Their discussion also touches on resilience found in community, particularly through shared passions like Arsenal Football Club.

Marcus du Sautoy, a Professor of Mathematics at Oxford, dives into the strategic depths of classic games like Connect 4 and Monopoly. He reveals mathematical tactics to elevate your game, explaining how pi can influence Rock Paper Scissors outcomes. The discussion also covers the evolution of gameplay from board games to digital realms, emphasizing the resurgence of physical games in a tech-driven world. With anecdotes on holiday gaming and the unexpected joys of Dungeons and Dragons, du Sautoy showcases how games shape society while honing our competitive instincts.

Marcus du Sautoy, an award-winning mathematician and Professor of Mathematics at Oxford, delves into the fascinating world of games and their mathematical underpinnings. He explains the best strategies for games like Connect 4 and Monopoly, linking them to mathematical concepts. Du Sautoy shares insights into the cultural history of games and their role in society, along with a philosophical exploration of play’s purpose. From ancient origins to the evolution of games, he reveals how mathematics enriches our gaming experiences.

Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, a renowned chef and food campaigner, teams up with Dr. Federica Amati, a scientist from ZOE, to discuss the transformative power of a plant-rich diet. They dive into the health benefits of consuming 30 different plants weekly, revealing how this can boost gut health and overall well-being. Practical tips for incorporating diverse plants into meals are shared, along with the joys of seasonal produce and fermentation. The conversation highlights how simple dietary changes can lead to significant health improvements.

David Baddiel, a celebrated comedian and author known for his work on 'Jews Don't Count,' shares profound insights into his Jewish heritage and the healing power of humor. He delves into his new memoir, 'My Family,' reflecting on familial trauma, including his mother's affair and his father's dementia. Baddiel humorously recalls quirky family dynamics, exploring how laughter transforms pain and honors the past. His anecdotes reveal the absurdities of family life while highlighting the emotional connections that shape his identity.

In this engaging discussion, critically acclaimed novelist Rachel Cusk, known for her innovative narrative styles, joins Adam Biles, Literary Director at Shakespeare and Company in Paris. They dive into the themes of Cusk's latest novel, Parade, exploring its unique feminist perspectives and her evolving identity as a writer. The conversation also highlights the intricate relationship between an artist's biography and their work, and the challenges women authors face in authentically expressing their experiences amidst societal expectations.

In this lively discussion, organizational psychologist Adam Grant and economic journalist Tim Harford explore groundbreaking concepts from Grant's latest book, 'Hidden Potential.' They dive into the journey of overcoming self-doubt, sharing a captivating story about a competitive school's chess team. The pair emphasizes the power of character skills in education and the role of feedback in fostering personal growth. With engaging anecdotes, they highlight innovative teaching methods and the importance of embracing discomfort for success.