Instant Genius

Like it or not, Earth won’t be our home forever. Whether it’s climate collapse, nuclear war, or the slow death of the Sun, life on this planet is on borrowed time. So, what happens next? If we’re serious about avoiding extinction, we’ll need to look not just beyond Earth – but far beyond our Solar System.Our guest today believes we not only can do that, but that we must. Christopher Mason is a Professor of Physiology and Biophysics at Weill Cornell Medicine and author of The Next 500 Years: Engineering Life to Reach New Worlds. In the book, he argues that as the only species aware of life’s inevitable end, we have a moral duty to preserve it – not just our own, but all life on Earth. To do that, we’ll need to radically rethink what it means to be human. Because as things stand, our bodies are far too fragile to survive the journey.Chris lays out an ambitious 500-year plan to reengineer human biology, making us more resilient to space travel and alien environments — and he maps out how we might go about seeding life across the stars.So, is humanity ready to become an interstellar species? And where on Earth – or off it – do we begin? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kate Muir, a women's health expert and author of 'Everything You Need to Know About the Pill', dives into the often overlooked effects of hormonal contraception. She shares her journey through menopause and her daughter's experience with the pill, revealing the mental and physical side effects that come with many contraceptives. Muir also discusses the unsettling history behind the birth control pill, explores innovative future options like non-hormonal alternatives, and emphasizes the importance of education and awareness in reproductive health.

Emily Falk, a neuroscientist and professor at the University of Pennsylvania, dives into how our brains guide decision-making. She explores how different brain regions influence our choices and the balance between short-term versus long-term rewards. Falk discusses the power of self-perception and social influences on our decisions, revealing the role of peer pressure and cultural norms. The conversation includes strategies like temptation bundling to enhance decision-making and align actions with personal values.

Tom Kerss, an aurora chaser and the author of Northern Lights: The Definitive Guide to Auroras, shares his expertise on witnessing the breathtaking Northern Lights. He discusses the best locations and times for optimal viewing and emphasizes the importance of experiencing the moment over capturing it on camera. Kerss dives into the rich mythology surrounding the auroras and shares unforgettable personal encounters from his adventures. His insights provide listeners with essential tips to make their Northern Lights experience truly memorable.

Sturla Henriksen, a special advisor on ocean issues to the United Nations and author of 'The Ocean: How It Has Formed Our World – And Will Shape Our Destiny', shares his insights on the critical state of our oceans. He discusses how oceans absorb carbon and heat, highlighting their immense value amidst climate change. Rising temperatures and extreme weather threaten this vital resource. Sturla urges a holistic approach to tackle these challenges, emphasizing sustainable shipping practices and the ethical implications of deep-sea mining for a healthier planet.

Rodrigo Ledesma-Amaro, Director of the Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein, dives into the world of fermentation and its crucial role in sustainable food solutions. He highlights how our love for fermented foods goes beyond taste, benefiting both gut health and mental well-being. The conversation also touches on precision fermentation techniques, innovative methods for creating alternative proteins, and how these advancements could pave the way for future food sustainability, all while being mindful of environmental impacts.

Join Tom Kerss, an esteemed aurora chaser and astronomer, as he unpacks the breathtaking science of the Northern Lights. Discover how solar winds interact with Earth's magnetic field, creating vibrant colors that dance across the night sky. Tom shares insights from his 17 years of experience guiding travelers to witness this wonder, and discusses the significance of auroras on other planets. He also delves into forecasting techniques that combine modeling with real-time data, revealing the importance of studying these mesmerizing cosmic phenomena.

Cristiana Solinas, head of the National Bakery School at London South Bank University and baking science expert, breaks down the secrets of perfect baking. She discusses the importance of precise measurements and ingredient selection, especially the roles of flour and gluten. Cristiana busts common baking myths, like misconceptions about sourdough and gluten-free options. She emphasizes the science behind flavor combinations and shares valuable tips for mastering techniques that make baked goods truly shine.

Join theoretical physicist Jim Al-Khalili, an expert from the University of Surrey and BBC Radio 4 star, as he delves into the captivating world of quantum physics. He explores the historical controversies that have sparked debates over the past century and the profound implications of quantum theory on our perception of reality. Discover the wonders of quantum entanglement, its potential for future technologies like quantum computing, and the intriguing possibility that birds may navigate via quantum processes. Unravel the mysteries that leave even scientists fascinated!

Bronwen Percival, cheese buyer for Neal's Yard Dairy and author of "Reinventing the Wheel," dives into the captivating world of cheesemaking. She unravels the magic of fermentation, explaining how enzymes and microbes transform milk into delicious cheese. Learn about the importance of flavors, the balance of pasteurized versus raw milk, and why certain molds are beneficial. Bronwen also explores the intricacies of cheese tasting, revealing how artisanal producers enhance our tasting experiences and tips for crafting the perfect cheese board.