Instant Genius

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.

Arturo Casadevall, a physician and immunology researcher, dives into the fascinating world of fungi. He reveals how fungi are crucial to ecosystems, contributing to everything from nutrient recycling to climate regulation. Casadevall discusses the dual nature of fungi, both beneficial and harmful, in medicine and food safety. He touches on climate change's impact on fungal evolution and highlights the often-overlooked role fungi play in carbon sequestration. Prepare to see fungi in a whole new light!

Dr. Jonathan Taylor, a senior lecturer in sport and exercise at Teesside University, delves into the fascinating world of athletic performance. He discusses the stagnation of world records and the genetic factors that influence our limits. Taylor explains how our musculature and cardiovascular systems play vital roles in performance, and emphasizes that interest in sports will remain strong despite these limits. He also highlights advancements in training techniques, nutrition, and technology that continue to push the boundaries of what athletes can achieve.

James Betts, a professor of metabolic physiology at the University of Bath, dives into the science behind post-exercise recovery. He shares essential tips on refueling after workouts, emphasizing the critical role of timely carbohydrate intake. Betts discusses the myths surrounding ice baths and explains why muscle soreness is a normal part of training. He also highlights the benefits of active recovery, the impact of alcohol on hydration, and the surprising role of supplements like creatine in enhancing recovery and performance.

Professor Tim Woodman discusses the role of motivation in performance, benefits of visualization and breath work for athletes and everyday individuals, the impact of resilience and 'hot hand effect' in sports, managing anger in athletes, and applying elite athlete techniques to enhance daily performance.

Most of us know that we should probably be trying to get a bit more exercise, but fitting gym sessions into our busy work and homelives can often be tricky. And even then, we still have to decide what activities suit our needs best when faced with the intimidating number of options that are out there.In this episode, we catch up with Dr Sinead Roberts, a lecturer in sport and exercise nutrition at the University of Westminster.She tells us why the good news is that doing something, whatever it is, is nearly always better than doing nothing, why it’s a good idea to do strength training even if you don’t want to be a body builder and how to get through frustrating plateaus in progress.The Peak Performance miniseries features interviews with some of the leading figures in sports research to give you everything you need for a science-packed summer of sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the oxygen in the air we breathe to the atmosphere that cloaks the Earth and protects us from the Sun’s harmful ultraviolet light, gases are essential for the existence of human beings.But did you know that we’ve also harnessed the properties of these elusive, largely invisible substances to impact almost every aspect of our lives?In this episode, we catch up with material scientist Prof Mark Miodownik to talk about his latest book, It’s a Gas: The Magnificent and Elusive Elements that Expand Our World.He tells us how gases helped us to make our cities safer and more prosperous, how Nobel Prize-winning chemistry led to the invention of neon lights and how we owe our very existence to gases influence in shaping the chemical makeup of the Earth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Looking to get the maximum possible benefits out of your gym time? Want to find out why what you do to recover outside of the gym is just as important what you do inside it? Or maybe you’d like to learn some of the secret psychological tricks pro athletes use to stay at their best?Why not tune into the Instant Genius Peak Performance miniseries, brought to you from the team behind BBC Science Focus.It's still the same show, with the same great guests. We’ll just be spending a little extra time to go deeper into the science of all things related to sports and fitness.Starting on Monday 22 July, this four-part special series will feature interviews with some of the leading figures in sports research to give you everything you need for a science-packed summer of sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices