In this discussion, Professor Graham Close, a human physiology expert from Liverpool John Moores University, dives into the world of protein powders. He addresses listener Helen’s query on whether whey or plant-based proteins are beneficial for muscle recovery. The conversation clears up myths about protein timing and intake, highlighting the benefits of whole foods. Plus, the environmental implications of protein sources are explored, noting the pros and cons of supplements versus natural foods. It’s a blend of science and practical advice!

Dr. Helen Salisbury, a GP and British Medical Journal columnist, shares insights on the reliability of smart scales in measuring body metrics. Professor Bill Lionheart, an applied mathematics expert, discusses the bioimpedance methods behind these devices. They explore concerns about accuracy, emotional implications of health metrics, and the limitations of smart scales compared to advanced assessments like DEXA scans. The conversation highlights the challenges of interpreting body fat and protein metrics, emphasizing a balanced understanding of health beyond just numbers.

Join listener Robin Brown, who is eager to find budget-friendly insulation for his old Victorian house, and David Farmer, a research fellow from the University of Salford, as they dive into practical home hacks. They explore cost-effective solutions like plastic sheeting, radiator foil, and thick curtains. Discover how these methods can keep the cold out and save on energy bills. With insights from the innovative Energy House project, this conversation is packed with tips for cozying up your home without breaking the bank!

The team has gone through over 100 episodes of Sliced Bread, and carved out five popular products that may well be heading down a chimney to you this Christmas. Greg Foot will share with you the key points from experts we’ve spoken to on Air Fryers, Mascara, Perfume, Running Shoes, and DNA Ancestry Tests - as well as their conclusions in one handy festive slice! We’ve also updated some of the topics too. (The information in this episode was correct at the time of recording.)And as always, all of our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: KATE HOLDSWORTH

Can wonder products halt hair loss and grow back luscious locks?We're back with a new series of Sliced Bread and a fresh batch of investigations into your suggested wonder products. First up this time are lotions and pills that promise to stop hair loss - and even grow it back. For this episode Greg is joined at our Salford studios by two listeners, Ian and Kimberley. Ian got in touch about two products he's seen - Minoxidil and Finasteride - which he hopes can help with male pattern baldness. And listener Kimberley is keen to know whether there's anything she can do about hair loss which is caused by menopause. To get the answers Greg speaks to one of the most cited researchers in the hair loss world - Ralf Paus - as they deep-dive into the studies to separate the science fact from the marketing claims. As ever this series it's YOUR suggestions that are the start of all our investigations. If you've seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voicenote to our WhatsApp number 07543 306807PRESENTER: Greg Foot PRODUCER: Simon Hoban

The mobile phone retailer, Phones 4u, was hugely profitable, so why did it have to close all of its 700+ shops? The BBC Business journalist, Sean Farrington and the entrepreneur, Sam White discover how Phones 4u ended up toast with help from expert guests including:John Caudwell - Phones 4u founder Nikki Barrow & Chris Papageorgiou - former Phones 4u staff membersIan White - editor of Mobile News magazineProduced by Jon Douglas. Toast is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.You can email the programme at toast@bbc.co.ukFeel free to suggest topics which could be covered in future episodes.Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in December, where Greg Foot investigates so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread. In the meantime, Toast is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds

Dan-Air was one of Britain's biggest airlines and took millions of people on their first package holidays. So, why did such a successful business end up 'toast'? The BBC Business journalist, Sean Farrington, and the entrepreneur, Sam White look into it. They are joined by:-Graham Simons - Dan-Air historian and author of the book 'The Spirit of Dan-Air'-Jackie Stacey & James Hoffmeister - former Dan-Air cabin crewProduced by Jon Douglas. Toast is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.You can email the programme at toast@bbc.co.ukFeel free to suggest topics which could be covered in future episodes.Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in December, where Greg Foot investigates so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread. In the meantime, Toast is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds

Discover the fascinating rise and fall of Our Price Records, a once-thriving music retailer. Explore its innovative strategies that attracted young audiences and supported indie labels. Hear personal stories from former employees about the brand's community impact. Delve into challenges it faced during technological shifts and competition from larger chains. The discussion also considers potential revivals for brick-and-mortar music shops in the age of vinyl resurgence, emphasizing the need for passionate leadership and unique customer experiences.

Don Strickland, former VP of Digital Imaging at Kodak, shares his insights on the company's journey from photography pioneer to a smaller player in a digital world. He discusses Kodak's innovative history, like giving away cameras to sell film, and recalls its nostalgic impact. The conversation dives into Kodak's missteps during the transition to digital, including its fears of undermining film sales. Strickland emphasizes the crucial lessons about innovation, adaptability, and the unpredictable nature of business success.

Join Richard Junger, a communication professor, Tom Browne, former editor, and Gary Hopkins, ex-owner of Reader's Digest UK, as they dissect the magazine's fall from grace. They tackle its fascinating history, from its cultural significance to its peak in the 1980s, and reveal the financial struggles post-acquisition by a private equity firm. The group also explores the challenges of adapting to a digital age and engaging younger audiences while reminiscing about Reader's Digest's nostalgic charm.