6 Minute English

Exploring the cultural and historical significance of names, the hosts interview Sheila Banerjee who shares her research on her own name and family history. They discuss the connection between Bengali roots and mass migration, as well as the anglicization of Indian surnames during colonial times.

This podcast discusses the challenges faced by people in hot parts of the world and explores innovative ideas to keep houses cool. It highlights the use of white reflective paint on roofs to reduce room temperatures and the success of affordable paint in cooling down houses in Indian cities. The honeycomb design called Jali is also mentioned as a way to cool down the air coming into windows.

The podcast discusses workplace unhappiness and the British working culture, emphasizing the importance of a good job. It also explores a task-based approach in the construction industry that improves work-life balance and discusses the benefits of flexible working.

The podcast explores eco-anxiety and its impact on mental health, discussing how climate change affects human well-being. It introduces new vocabulary and shares a positive story about animal resurgence in Australia. The chapter emphasizes the importance of taking action and transitioning away from fossil fuels to combat eco-anxiety. It also highlights the government's commitment to reaching net zero by 2050 and creating green jobs.

Explore the impact of natural disasters, from lightning strikes survival to high mortality rates. Discover the potential worsening due to climate change and population growth. Challenge the notion of natural disasters and ways to reduce damage, including technological and low-tech solutions. Learn about the importance of knowing danger and evacuation processes, with a focus on inclusive shelters and innovative ideas in Bangladesh.

Neil and Beth talk about different ways of apologising.

We hear about a new foraging project and the health benefits of eating wild food.

We talk about whether plants can clean up our mess.

We talk about chatbots and teach you some useful vocabulary along the way.

We are kind to animals. What about plants?