Instant Genius

Join Peter Fretwell, lead scientist at the British Antarctic Survey and author of The Penguin Book of Penguins, as he reveals the fascinating world of penguins. Learn how these charming birds waddle and 'fly' underwater, while debunking the myth that they only inhabit Antarctica. Discover the incredible diving abilities of emperor penguins and their unique adaptations for survival. Peter also discusses the urgent conservation challenges they face and how individuals can make a difference to help protect these beloved creatures.

Join neuroscientist Dean Burnett, a best-selling author and BBC Science Focus contributor, as he tackles brain myths with wit and wisdom. Discover the truth about the folklore that we only use 10% of our brains and learn how the left-brain/right-brain divide is a simplification of our complex cognition. Burnett also sheds light on the inaccuracies of polygraph tests for detecting lies and critiques personality tests like Myers-Briggs for their scientific shortcomings, all while reflecting on happiness and memory in midlife.

Tim Lenton, Chair in Climate Change and Earth System Science at the University of Exeter and author of Positive Tipping Points, shares his insights on transformative strategies for combating climate change. He discusses how cultural movements, like A-ha's influence on Norway's electric vehicle adoption, can catalyze significant shifts. Lenton emphasizes the interplay between government policies and grassroots activism, and how interconnected positive tipping points can pave the way for a greener future. It's a hopeful take on tackling the climate crisis!

Jerry D Moore, a professor of anthropology and author of 'Cat Tales: A History – How We Learned to Live with Them', dives into our enduring love for cats. He explores how ancient cultures both revered and feared these predators, and how civilization's reliance on agriculture turned wild cats into essential pest controllers. Moore discusses the emotional bond we share with our feline friends and the intriguing question of who truly domesticated whom—a fascinating journey from revered creatures to beloved pets.

Philippe Cousteau Jr., an oceanographer and grandson of legendary explorer Jacques Cousteau, dives deep into the vital role oceans play in our planet's health. He discusses how the oceans regulate our climate and support life, despite the alarming state they’re in due to pollution and overfishing. Cousteau highlights innovative solutions for coral restoration and the need for urgent collective action. Emphasizing education, he advocates for empowering the next generation to protect this essential resource for our future.

Omar Yaghi, a pioneering Professor of Chemistry at UC Berkeley, is at the forefront of materials chemistry. He discusses his groundbreaking work with metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs), which can capture carbon and extract drinking water from desert air. The conversation dives into how these innovations tackle clean energy and water scarcity challenges. Yaghi also explores the future of material science, emphasizing the role of AI in shaping accessible, custom solutions that could revolutionize environmental sustainability.

In this engaging discussion, Devi Sridhar, a Professor of Global Public Health at the University of Edinburgh and author of 'How Not to Die (Too Soon)', dives into how societal structures impact our health. She challenges the myth of personal responsibility in wellness and highlights the importance of education and community support. Sridhar shares insights from the world’s longest-lived populations and outlines necessary policy changes to tackle food deserts, promote healthy eating, and enhance urban planning for better public health.

Dr. Ian Taylor, a psychologist from Loughborough University and author of 'Time Hacks,' dives into the psychology of time management. He explores the pitfalls of relying solely on willpower for productivity and advocates completing key tasks early in the day. Ian emphasizes breaking larger goals into manageable micro-goals to boost motivation. The discussion also highlights the emotional implications of our relationship with time, offering strategies to create focus in a world full of distractions while aligning our values with our time management.

In this insightful conversation, Abby Marsh, a neuroscientist at Georgetown University and featured in National Geographic’s series with Chris Hemsworth, explores the complexities of fear. She discusses how fear serves as both an obstacle and an opportunity for growth. Abby shares fascinating insights on the brain's mechanisms, the psychological benefits of overcoming challenges, and how embracing discomfort can transform fear into a powerful tool for personal fulfillment. Listeners will learn to harness their fears and live more courageous lives.

Joe Harkness, a naturalist and author of "Neurodivergent by Nature," shares insights on how nature can benefit neurodivergent individuals. He discusses the late diagnoses many face and their strong ties to careers in conservation. Joe highlights the healing power of outdoor environments for mental health and the need for inclusivity in workplaces. He shares inspiring stories of notable conservation efforts and the socio-economic barriers that limit access to the conservation sector. Harkness advocates for greater awareness and support for neurodiversity.