Instant Genius

Professor David Nutt, an acclaimed psychopharmacologist from Imperial College London, dives deep into the world of psychedelics and their potential to transform mental health treatment. He discusses how these substances affect the brain, fostering flexibility and altering perceptions. Nutt explores the therapeutic use of psychedelics for conditions like depression and PTSD, highlighting their ability to reconnect distant brain regions. He also addresses the risks, the science behind visual hallucinations, and the promising future for psychedelic-assisted therapies.

Curious about what our plates will look like in 2050? Dive into discussions about groundbreaking farming technologies revolutionizing food production. Explore how algae and seaweed might soon be staples in our diets. Plus, uncover the intriguing science behind how our bodies uniquely react to different foods. Get ready for an enlightening journey into the future of what we eat!

In this enlightening discussion, science writer Lise Barnéoud, author of Hidden Guests, delves into the fascinating world of microchimerism. She reveals how our bodies host cells from our mothers and even from past siblings, challenging the notion of a singular identity. Lise shares intriguing cases, like a woman giving birth to her twin sister's genetic children, and discusses the potential health implications of these foreign cells. Explore how microchimerism could redefine family connections and our understanding of self.

Dr. Nikolay Kukushkin, a neuroscientist and author of *One Hand Clapping*, explores the emergence of human consciousness from the fundamental processes of nature. He discusses how atoms interactively evolved into complex thought and self-awareness. Using a bottom-up approach, he argues for understanding consciousness through molecular principles rather than traditional psychology. Kukushkin also delves into how simpler organisms reveal brain functions, the ancient nature of memory, and speculates on how AI could influence our evolutionary trajectory.

Dr. Emma Chapman, a Royal Society Research Fellow and astrophysicist at the University of Nottingham, delves into the enigma of the Universe's first stars. She explains how they emerged from the Big Bang, igniting the cosmos from darkness. Emma highlights their massive, hot nature, and short lifespans ending in supernovae. Discover how discoveries from the James Webb Space Telescope have reshaped our understanding, revealing unexpectedly massive early galaxies. Lastly, she emphasizes the importance of studying these primordial stars for insights into the cosmos.

Join evolutionary anthropologist Herman Pontzer, a Duke University professor and author of 'Burn' and 'Adaptable', as he dives into human diversity and adaptation. He explains how our genes evolve, featuring intriguing examples like the Sama diving community's expanded spleens for breath-holding. Pontzer discusses the complex interplay of environment and genetics in traits like height and BMI. Learn why intelligence is shaped by culture, not just heredity, and discover fascinating adaptations like nose shapes developed for different climates.

Dr. Julia Shaw, a criminal psychologist and bestselling author, explores the urgent topic of ecological crime in her latest book, Green Crime. She highlights how understanding the motivations behind these crimes—like poverty exploitation and social norms—can help combat them. Julia discusses the role of various players, from scientists to law enforcement, in fighting environmental offenses. She also addresses the psychological effects of eco-grief and offers insights into how awareness can pave the way for solutions to protect our planet.

In this insightful discussion, psychologist and magician Richard Wiseman dives into the intriguing world of paranormal psychology. He explains how our brains might misinterpret the environment, leading us to feel eerie presences or see faces in everyday objects, a phenomenon known as pareidolia. Wiseman also covers the science behind ghostly sensations and night terrors, revealing cultural influences and evolutionary factors that shape our experiences. Plus, he sheds light on the mechanics of seances and the tricks behind mediumship. Get ready to rethink what spooks you!

Dr. William Pao, an oncologist and drug researcher, dives into the intricate journey of drug development in his insightful discussion. He reveals the astonishingly low approval rates of new drugs and explains the collaborative nature of research that spans decades. Pao underscores the significance of basic science in breakthroughs and shares the fascinating story of paracetamol's accidental discovery. He also discusses the challenges of clinical trials and the variability in patient responses, offering a glimpse into future advancements in medicine.

Dr. Ryan French, a solar physicist and author of "Space Hazards: Asteroids, solar flares, and cosmic threats," discusses the various dangers our planet faces from space. He reveals the real risks posed by asteroids, emphasizing near-Earth objects as the most significant threats. Ryan explains the impact of solar flares and their effects on technology, offering insights into how they disrupt satellites and power grids. He also reassures listeners about humanity's growing ability to monitor and prepare for potential space hazards.