

Instant Genius
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Whether you’re curious about getting healthy, the Big Bang or the science of cooking, find out everything you need to know with Instant Genius. The team behind BBC Science Focus Magazine talk to world-leading experts to bring you a bite-sized masterclass on a new subject each week.New episodes are released every Monday and Friday and you can subscribe to Instant Genius on Apple Podcasts to access all new episodes ad-free and all old episodes of Instant Genius Extra.Watch full episodes of Instant Genius on BBC Science Focus Magazine's YouTube channel.
Episodes
Mentioned books

7 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 38min
How psychedelics could kickstart the next mental health revolution
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.

Oct 21, 2025 • 34sec
Don't miss the upcoming Future of Food miniseries!
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!

Oct 19, 2025 • 27min
How our bodies are host to mysterious cells that came from other people
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.

Oct 16, 2025 • 38min
How human consciousness emerged from the fundamental processes of nature
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.

Oct 12, 2025 • 29min
The hunt for the first stars in the Universe
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.

Oct 9, 2025 • 33min
The weird and wonderful science behind why humans are different
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.

Oct 5, 2025 • 40min
The key role psychologists can play in the fight against ecological crime
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.

22 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 25min
The psychology of paranormal experiences
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!

Sep 28, 2025 • 34min
Inside the hunt for life-changing medicines
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.

Sep 25, 2025 • 35min
From asteroids to aliens - how space is threatening our planet
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.


