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.

Liz Redman, a concerned coffee pod user, teams up with Tim Ridley, a coffee expert and founder of United Baristas, and Cecile Chéron-Bessou, a research director in agroecology, to tackle the environmental dilemmas of coffee pods. They dive into the recyclability of these convenient products, weigh alternatives like AeroPress against traditional brewing, and explore how consumer choices impact our carbon footprint. The trio emphasizes sustainable practices, leaving listeners questioning their coffee habits while savoring their favorite brews.

In this intriguing discussion, listener Alice Kemp sparks a debate on the necessity of various cleaning sprays. Joined by Dr. Sally Bloomfield, an expert in home hygiene, and Lynsey Crombie, the 'Queen of Clean,' they dissect whether cleaning sprays are essential or if soap and water suffices. The trio unpacks the effectiveness of natural products like vinegar versus commercial options, while emphasizing targeted hygiene practices for household safety. They also explore the evolution of cleaning products and the balance between cleanliness and sustainability.

In this milestone discussion, physicist and computational biologist Andrew Steele, author of 'Ageless,' explores the science behind longevity supplements. He delves into popular compounds like NMN and spermidine, questioning their true effectiveness in extending life. Listener Solly Milton highlights the buzz around biohackers aiming to reverse aging, prompting a critical look at these claims. The conversation critiques the antioxidant myth and suggests a balanced approach to health, emphasizing evidence-based practices over costly supplements.

Maddy Emery, a passionate runner, dives into the world of float tanks to uncover their impact on performance and mental health. Joined by Justin Feinstein, a clinical neuropsychologist, they explore the scientific backing for claims of stress reduction and enhanced recovery. Paul Morgan adds insights on how float therapy aids athletic recovery, tackling muscle soreness and blood lactate levels. Together, they analyze personal experiences, societal pressures, and the real benefits of this trending therapy, making a compelling case for its potential.