Instant Genius

Thanks to the years and years spent poring over textbooks to study the inner workings of the brain, the high level of manual dexterity required to perform operations and the mental pressures that come with taking patients’ lives in your hands, there can be little doubt the journey to becoming a brain surgeon is one of the most challenging any of us can embark upon.So, what exactly does it take to become a successful brain surgeon and what does the day-to-work reality look like when the years of training are finally complete?In this episode, we catch up Theodore H Schwartz, professor of neurosurgery based at Weill Cornell Medical Center, to talk about his new book Gray Matters: A Biography of Brain Surgery.He tells us about his own personal journey to become an in-demand surgeon, what it’s like to work in one of New York’s busiest hospitals, and the surprising crossover between brain surgery and learning how to play an instrument. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Discover the surprising ways nature boosts your health! Learn how the scent of pine trees can calm your heart rate and how houseplants might enhance your gut health. Experience the soothing effects of flowers on heart rate and see how even digital images of green spaces can elevate your mood. Delve into the impact of natural sounds on stress relief and the vital importance of biodiversity for our well-being. This engaging discussion highlights the profound connection between our health and the natural world around us.

Rob Jackson, an author passionate about environmental restoration, explores how technology and collective effort can help revive Earth's atmosphere. He dives into urgent climate realities, advocating for immediate action against greenhouse emissions, particularly from food production. Jackson also discusses the concept of net zero cities, balancing economic growth with pollution reduction. He emphasizes successful global initiatives and the crucial need for carbon pricing to incentivize cleaner technologies. The potential benefits of addressing climate change now are highlighted, making a compelling case for action.

Dr. Emily Leeming, a microbiome scientist, dietician, and former chef, believes fiber is key to better health. She discusses how increasing fiber intake can boost mood, control appetite, and even reduce mortality risk. Emily debunks myths about fiber sources, explaining the importance of whole grains and legumes. She also explores the gut-brain connection and offers practical tips for meal planning, making fiber-rich meals enjoyable without sacrificing taste. Plus, she addresses the role of ultra-processed foods in a balanced diet.

Dr. Jess French, a vet and TV presenter renowned for her engaging explanations of animal anatomy to kids, shares astonishing animal facts. She discusses sloths' peculiar bathroom habits and the surprising communication methods in the animal kingdom. Jess explains the incredible dental adaptations of narwhals and beavers, and reveals the healing powers of cat purrs. She even humorously explores the superpowers of various animals, comparing the flight precision of dragonflies to that of birds.

Peter Lamont, a professor of history and theory of psychology at the University of Edinburgh, dives into the importance of radical thinking in today’s information-saturated world. He discusses how curiosity can reshape our beliefs and enhance critical thinking. Lamont emphasizes recognizing our biases and limitations to engage deeply with complex issues. He also explores the allure of extraordinary beliefs, urging open-mindedness towards diverse perspectives for a richer understanding of reality.

In this enlightening discussion, Zoë Schlanger, staff writer at The Atlantic and author of The Light Eaters, explores the fascinating world of plant intelligence. She reveals how plants exhibit decision-making abilities and complex communication through chemical signals. The podcast dives into the surprising relationship between orchids and wasps, showcasing nature's intricate strategies. Schlanger encourages a shift in how we perceive plants, urging respect for their agency and complexity within the ecosystem.

Tom Chivers, an insightful author known for his work on predictability through Bayes' Theorem, discusses how this statistical model can illuminate our understanding of the future. He highlights the differences between Bayesian and frequentist approaches to probability and their implications for scientific reliability. Chivers also emphasizes the importance of applying Bayesian thinking in daily life, especially in combating misinformation and shaping beliefs. He illustrates the theorem's practical uses, like in spam filtering, showcasing its relevance across diverse fields.

Karen Shackleford, a media psychologist, dives into the captivating world of parasocial relationships—those one-sided connections we feel with celebrities. She explains how these bonds are fostered by social media, often providing comfort in times of loneliness. Shackleford highlights the thin line between healthy admiration and obsession, discussing the emotional toll of 'parasocial breakups' when beloved public figures falter. With insights into generational perspectives, she reveals how these relationships have evolved, especially during the pandemic.

Ray Kurzweil, a futurist with over 60 years of AI expertise, shares his insights on the future in his new book, The Singularity Is Nearer. He discusses the potential of merging human intelligence with AI and envisions a future where cognitive enhancements are commonplace. Kurzweil also tackles the ethical implications of life extension technologies and the societal shifts that increased longevity might bring. He predicts significant advancements in AI and virtual reality over the next two decades, revolutionizing how we interact with technology.