You’ve heard about it, but do you really know it? In 3 minutes, we help you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. After listening, you will really know for sure.
Does our personality change when we speak in another language?
When it comes to what proportion of people speak more than one language, estimates vary but the general consensus is that at least half of the world’s population do so. If you're bilingual, you may well have encountered a fascinating phenomenon: that a new personality seems to emerge when you switch languages.
In March 2017, Quartz ran an article on the subject, written by Nicola Prentis. Prentis included accounts from a number of multilingual people, including Margarita, a Russian-American immigrant who fled the Soviet Union to escape anti-Semitism at the age of 19. Margarita revealed that when she speaks Russian, she feels 'guarded, reserved and uncomfortable.'
How is it possible? And are we necessarily more at ease in our own native language? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can you protect yourself from being mugged?
How to use less water?
How did Covid lead to the emergence of meta cities?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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2/4/2024 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
How can I best preserve food in my freezer ?
With the warmer weather that summer brings, it’s especially important to be aware of the best techniques for freezing food before it goes bad. This ensures food safety and minimises waste. Furthermore, proper freezing techniques help preserve the taste, texture, and nutritional value of the food.
You might think it’s as simple as bunging something in the freezer and leaving it there for as long as you want, but actually there are a number of finer points to bear in mind, which many people are unaware of. Fear not though, as usual we've got you covered. Get ready to beat the heat and become a food freezing expert. Let's jump right in!
Is it OK to freeze something that has already thawed ? What’s the ideal temperature for maintaining a freezer ? Are there any food items that are not suitable for freezing? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do women live longer than men?
Does money really make us happy?
Do I need to take vitamin D supplements?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 19/07/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/4/2024 • 5 minutes
Why do we experience the unsettling "Uncanny Valley" effect?
In November 2023, a spooky makeup trend took TikTok by storm. Users posted images of themselves with full-coverage, pale foundation for a ghostly vibe, intense grey contouring, hidden eyebrows, and pencil-altered lips. The aim behind those creative efforts was actually to resemble humanoid creatures, and elicit a particular reaction known as “uncanny valley” from viewers.
And the trend garnered a lot of attention. As of November 13th, Forbes reported that the #uncannyvalley hashtag had amassed 821 million views. The funny thing is that the origins of the uncanny valley phenomenon actually have nothing to do with makeup at all.
What does it mean then? Where does the 'valley' part come from? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can you protect yourself from being mugged?
How to use less water?
How did Covid lead to the emergence of meta cities?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/3/2024 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What are parasocial relationships, the one-sided connections between celebs and their fans?
This kind of one-way relationship is generally between a fan and a public figure or fictional character. It’s about the feeling of familiarity or even friendship we feel for a celeb without ever actually having had any direct interaction with them.
Most of the time of course, said celeb doesn’t even know we exist. After all, depending on their stature, they may have millions of fans, but there’s only one of them!
It’s a very modern-day phenomenon, isn’t it? Are parasocial relationships problematic? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do women live longer than men?
Does money really make us happy?
Do I need to take vitamin D supplements?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 01/08/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/3/2024 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
What are the health benefits of walking up stairs?
Have you ever heard ot the stairs test? Experts say it’s an excellent gauge of a person’s overall health. The idea is to run up as many flights of stairs as your body allows you to. If you can’t manage two flights at a brisk pace, you may need to consider lifestyle changes to improve your health. Meanwhile if you can climb eight or more, the chances are you’re in excellent health already.
But beyond being a good health indicator, taking the stairs is a fantastic way to stay in shape. It combines muscle strengthening and cardiorespiratory work. Whether it’s in public transport, at your workplace or even at home, I’m sure you can think of an opportunity to fit some stair-climbing into your daily routine.
What does climbing stairs do to the body then? Why is it sometimes so challenging? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can you protect yourself from being mugged?
How to use less water?
How did Covid lead to the emergence of meta cities?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/2/2024 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
How can you protect yourself from being mugged?
Mugging is a form of robbery that involves violence or the threat of violence against a person in a public place. It’s also known as street robbery or personal robbery. However, would-be muggers have been foiled by a recent covert police operation in London which aimed at reducing street theft.
Brave officers posed as potential victims by wearing expensive luxury watches to tempt thieves and hanging around in dangerous places, then when anyone attempted to steal the watches they were arrested by hidden officers lying in wait. And it has been successful, the operation reduced annual watch robberies from 113 to 55 last year in three central London boroughs.
Who are the most likely victims and perpetrators of mugging? So how can you avoid being mugged or minimise the harm if you are attacked? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do women live longer than men?
Does money really make us happy?
Do I need to take vitamin D supplements?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/1/2024 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
How to use less water?
Water footprint matters because scientists have calculated that the climate crisis makes drought 20 times more likely, while the UN predicts that demand for fresh water will exceed supply by 40% by 2030.
You might think that you only use water when you drink, cook, wash, or flush the loo, but actually, you use much more water than that. According to Water UK, the average person in the UK uses 142 litres per day. That’s the amount of water that is needed to produce the food, clothes, and other products that you consume.
How can you reduce your water footprint? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do women live longer than men?
Does money really make us happy?
Do I need to take vitamin D supplements?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 03/10/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/1/2024 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
What's the right way to burst a pimple?
If there are any teenagers out there listening in, chances are you have faced an acne breakout at some point in the recent past, or perhaps you're even going through that now. Rest assured, that was the case for many of us adults too when we were your age, and for some people, acne continues to be a nuisance into adulthood.
It’s tied to a number of factors including hormonal shifts, genetics, lifestyle, and diet. These blemishes basically result from an excess of sebum. Regular listeners will remember that sebum contributes to the skin's hydrolipidic film, protecting it from various threats and maintaining hydration.
Is squeezing pimples a good idea? What should I do once the pimple has been drained? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do women live longer than men?
Does money really make us happy?
Do I need to take vitamin D supplements?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/31/2024 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
How did Covid lead to the emergence of meta cities?
During the Covid-19 health crisis, our approach to work underwent significant changes, largely thanks to the surge in remote work. This shift allowed people to reassess their priorities and determine where they genuinely wanted to live. Dreary lockdown periods also led to heightened awareness of our anxieties and life choices.
So it’s no real surprise that many people chose to flee the cities they were living in before. For example, forecasts from PWC in early 2021 suggested that London’s population was set to decrease by 300,000 that year, marking the first annual decline since 1988.
What’s a meta city then? Could you say that meta cities are both a physical and virtual realm? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do women live longer than men?
Does money really make us happy?
Do I need to take vitamin D supplements?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/31/2024 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
Why are the Scottish embracing Scandinavian winter activities?
The Scottish have a long history of cultural and political ties with Scandinavia, dating back to the Viking era. Many Scottish place names, words, and traditions have Nordic origins. For example, the word loch comes from the Old Norse word for lake, and the kilt is similar to the plaid worn by the Norsemen.
The Scottish also share a love of nature, adventure, and whisky with their Scandinavian cousins; they also have winters in common, long dark and cold but while winter is celebrated in Scandinavia it is rather endured in Scotland, but now that is changing.
What do the Scots think of winter? How are the Scottish adopting Scandinavian winter activities? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do women live longer than men?
Does money really make us happy?
Do I need to take vitamin D supplements?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/30/2024 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
Is it bad to drink coffee after 4pm?
According to the British Coffee Association, we drink around 98 million cups of coffee per day in the UK. That’s around one and a half cups for every single person in the country! It’s said that drinking coffee in the evening or even late afternoon has a negative impact on sleep quality, but a lot of people do so anyway.
Coffee contains various molecules, such as antioxidants and caffeine, which has a psychostimulant effect and is therefore behind the links to disrupting sleep. Our bodies don’t all metabolise caffeine in the same way though; that varies from person to person.
Are some of us more sensitive to it than others? What quantity should we aim for? What else should I be taking into account? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do women live longer than men?
Does money really make us happy?
Do I need to take vitamin D supplements?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 07/10/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/30/2024 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
Why do women live longer than men?
In the period from 2018 to 2020, the life expectancy at birth for women in the UK was 82.9 years, while it was just 79 for men. That’s according to data from the Office of National Statistics. And that disparity is a common trend across various countries and even among certain other species of mammals, like great apes.
There certainly are, and they span both biological and behavioral factors. Dr. Perminder Sachdev is a professor of neuropsychiatry at the University of New South Wales in Australia. Talking to Time.com for an article published on the subject in 2019, he highlighted that men are more likely to take “life-threatening risks” which could lead to them dying, in a fight for example, or a car accident resulting from driving too fast.
What kind of differences are we talking about? What about the impact of female hormones? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could moon breathing help you sleep better?
What is the Green Belt?
What are the benefits of slow sex?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/29/2024 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
Does money really make us happy?
According to a 2014 study by the Pew Research Center, people in wealthier countries are happier on average, but only up to a point. Even in so-called "emerging" countries like Indonesia, Pakistan and Turkey, there was a correlation between rising wealth levels and the percentage of happy people.
Interestingly though, in well-off nations, people don't necessarily attribute their happiness directly to money. The same Pew Research Center study found that health, children’s education, safety from crime, owning a home and having a fulfilling job were all more important than financial security. Of course, those factors are all somewhat connected to the economy.
Where did that saying come from to start with? And is money still a key player? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could moon breathing help you sleep better?
What is the Green Belt?
What are the benefits of slow sex?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/28/2024 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
Do I need to take vitamin D supplements?
Vitamin D is known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’, and it’s not for nothing. Our bodies make it from cholesterol when exposed to sunlight. The sun’s ultraviolet B rays hit cholesterol in the skin cells, providing the energy needed for vitamin D synthesis to occur.
Naturally, during autumn and winter, there’s less sunlight and government advice suggests that everyone should consider taking Vitamin D supplements during these seasons. In fact, most people are Vitamin D-deficient regardless of the season. Sedentary lifestyles mean they simply don’t get enough sun exposure. Really, you want to get about 20 minutes of sun exposure each day when you can. Ideally that will be before 11AM or after 5PM, as UV levels peak in between those times, meaning sunlight can be damaging to the skin.
What's so special about Vitamin D? Can it be found in food? Who should be taking vitamin D supplements? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could assisted dying become legal in the UK?
How can I improve my concentration at work?
Why is generative AI set to explode in 2024?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 05/11/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/28/2024 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
Which foods mustn't you put in the microwave?
The microwave first emerged in the 1950s and has since become a common fixture in kitchens worldwide. 2018 data from Statista showed that 93% of UK household now own a microwave, with that figure also being over 90% in the United States according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Love it or hate it; you can’t deny that it’s hard to beat the microwave for convenience when it comes to quickly reheating food. It operates using the principle of electromagnetic wave radiation, by agitating the water molecules in our food to generate heat.
What kinds of foods are you talking about? What about meat and fish? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could moon breathing help you sleep better?
What is the Green Belt?
What are the benefits of slow sex?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/27/2024 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
Why are there so many spin offs in the world of cinema?
The world of cinema is full of films and sagas which leave their mark on a generation, sometimes becoming cult films. And another phenomenon is becoming more and more common: that of the spin off. Spin-off films involve the creation of a new work based on the original, focusing on the story of a secondary character.
There are a number of reasons why directors and screenwriters have chosen to carry out such projects. In the last few years, cinema has been met with strong competition from the world of series. Whereas before, the quality was close to that of a good TV film, these days series are able to match films blow for blow, both in terms of screenplay and production budget. SON - punch There’s another clear advantage, which is that series aren’t limited in time the same way as films are. From one season to the next, they can easily go into greater depth on a character's back story.
Why are they so important for cinematic works? Why do fans love them so much? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is generative AI set to explode in 2024?
Is being delulu a good thing?
Should you be reducing salt in your diet?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 27/06/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/27/2024 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
Could moon breathing help you sleep better?
In this day and age, it’s common to feel stressed every day, even right through to the evening. Have you ever struggled to lower your stress levels when it comes to bedtime, and taken a long while to fall asleep as a result?
The worry of not getting enough sleep then just gets you even more frustrated; it’s a vicious circle. If you’re falling victim to anxiety and fatigue for that reason, it’s time to stop binge-watching Netflix and try moon breathing instead!
What’s that? How can I get started with moon breathing then? How does it actually affect the body? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is relationship anarchy?
What does a full moon do to our bodies?
Could assisted dying become legal in the UK?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/26/2024 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
What is the Green Belt?
The Green Belt is a policy for controlling urban growth in the United Kingdom. It refers to a ring of countryside where urbanisation will be resisted for the foreseeable future, maintaining an area where local food growing, forestry and outdoor leisure can be expected to prevail.
The Green Belt policy was first introduced in 1935 by the Greater London Regional Planning Committee, and now covers 14 areas of land around the 16 largest urban cores of England.
Why do we have the Green Belt? What are the benefits and challenges? How can we balance the Green Belt and the housing needs? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is relationship anarchy?
What does a full moon do to our bodies?
Could assisted dying become legal in the UK?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/25/2024 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
What are the benefits of slow sex?
We all know that having sex is a great form of stress relief. It releases pleasure hormones, like endorphins and oxytocin, also reinforcing the cardiovascular and immune systems. But slow sex may be a way of further enhancing pleasure and allowing you to fully savor the multi-sensory experience that is good sex. It doesn’t have to be a race to the finish line!
First of all, it’s a bit of a leveller between men and women in a heterosexual relationship. On average it takes men from 5 to 7 minutes to climax during sex, whereas it’s more or less double that for women. So slowing things down makes it more likely both partners will have an orgasm. And a longer buildup tends to lead to more powerful climaxes for many people. The drawn out stimulation brings on a slow build up of blood flow in the genitals.
How does it differ from the kind of sex most people are having then? How can slow sex help partners to be more intimate? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is generative AI set to explode in 2024?
Is being delulu a good thing?
Should you be reducing salt in your diet?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 11/07/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/25/2024 • 3 minutes, 36 seconds
What is relationship anarchy?
"Love is abundant, and every relationship is unique." That might not seem like the most controversial of statements, but it’s actually the first point of The short instructional manifesto for relationship anarchy, originally written in Swedish by blogger Andie Nordgren back in 2006.
Just as political anarchy sees all rules and authority thrown out of the window, relationship anarchy rewrites the book on how a romantic partnership should work. In fact the only rules and expectations are those that partners come up with themselves and agree to. The philosophy is also known as RA for short, and it shuns traditional models of monogamy and hierarchy, instead promoting autonomy and community.
Is it complete chaos like with political anarchy then? Is it the same thing as polyamory? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could assisted dying become legal in the UK?
How can I improve my concentration at work?
Why is generative AI set to explode in 2024?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/24/2024 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What does a full moon do to our bodies?
You may not have realised, but tomorrow sees the first full moon of 2024, and there are actually a whole host of popular beliefs associated with this occurrence. For example, some people say that there are more births on evenings with a full moon. Others believe that the moon has an influence on our sleep, dreams, mood and even menstrual cycle for women. The moon and its potential interactions with our bodies and health have been the subject of fantasy for centuries.
Now there are actually four main phases to mind that The lunar calendar consists of four main phases: the new moon, the first quarter, the full moon and finally the last quarter. The definition of a full moon is when the sunEarth and the moon are allaligned with the , which happens roughly every 29 days.
Can the full moon turn us all into insomniacs? To what extent do superstitions influence our perceptions? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could assisted dying become legal in the UK?
How can I improve my concentration at work?
Why is generative AI set to explode in 2024?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/24/2024 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
Could assisted dying become legal in the UK?
Assisted dying is the term used to describe the practice of helping a person who is terminally ill or suffering from an incurable condition to end their own life, usually by providing them with the means to do so, such as lethal drugs. It is currently illegal in the UK under the Suicide Act 1961, which makes it a criminal offence to assist or encourage another person to commit suicide. The maximum penalty is 14 years in prison.
It is a highly contentious and emotive issue that raises ethical, legal, medical and religious questions. Supporters of assisted dying argue that it is a matter of personal choice and autonomy, and that people who are suffering from unbearable pain or distress should have the right to end their lives with dignity and compassion.
Why is assisted dying controversial? What is the current situation in the UK? What is the public opinion on assisted dying? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is generative AI set to explode in 2024?
Is being delulu a good thing?
Should you be reducing salt in your diet?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/23/2024 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
How can I improve my concentration at work?
No matter how prepared you are going into your normal day at the office, spending hours at your desk can get mundane and boring. Before you know it, your mind is wandering and you’ve lost focus...
According to a study published by Economist Intelligence Unit in October 2020, a third of working time is lost to distractions. That’s equivalent to a whopping 581 active hours per employee per year. But actually it doesn’t take much to get that concentration back and make some progress on your to-do list.
What are some tips for refocusing? Do we have to focus on one task at a time to be more efficient? What about the internal environment? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is generative AI set to explode in 2024?
Is being delulu a good thing?
Should you be reducing salt in your diet?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 09/10/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/23/2024 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
Why is generative AI set to explode in 2024?
Artificial intelligence really came to the fore in 2023, with chatGPT in particular gaining global recognition, and being used by many people on a daily basis for assistance and entertainment.
Despite the recent hype, the idea of AI is nothing new. In fact, you can trace its roots back to the time of World War II, and Alan Turing’s enigma cracking machine. But you can’t deny that these days a real AI revolution is underway.
So, what exactly can you do with it? Why is generative AI poised to make headlines in 2024? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could custobots do our shopping for us in a few years time?
What are some of the more unusual Royal servants jobs from the past?
Are cold showers good for you?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/22/2024 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
Is being delulu a good thing?
"May all your delulu come trululu, because being delulu is the solulu." The clip you just listened to comes from American influencer Bianca Bernardo on Tiktok, and it’s had over 2/3 million views at the time of recording. If you’re wondering what the heck those crazy words mean, it’s best summed up as saying: “may all your fantasies turn into reality”.
Indeed, the delulu hashtag has racked up over 6 billion views on TikTok. And it’s more than just an online trend; delulu is genuinely morphing into something of philosophy, or coping mechanism for Gen Z to deal with reality.
So, what does delulu actually mean? What are some real life examples of being delulu then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could custobots do our shopping for us in a few years time?
What are some of the more unusual Royal servants jobs from the past?
Are cold showers good for you?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/21/2024 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
Should you be reducing salt in your diet?
Salt is a common ingredient in many foods, and it’s essential for our health. Salt is made up of sodium and chloride, two minerals that help regulate fluid balance, blood pressure, nerve and muscle function.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), adults should consume less than 5 grams of salt per day, which is equivalent to about one teaspoon. However, most people eat more than that.
But how much salt do we need, and how much do we actually consume? What happens if we eat too much salt? Does that mean we should avoid salt altogether? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What’s the meaning of rizz, the 2023 word of the year?
Can we really multitask effectively?
What is the Honours list and who is on it this year?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 14/09/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/21/2024 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
Is living by the sea better for your health?
I don’t know about you, but I find that there’s something about the seaside air which just always makes me relax and puts me in a better mood. As it turns out, that might be more than just my impression. A study conducted by the University of Vienna and published in May 2022 established that living near the sea can have significant effects on health and life expectancy.
Now the idea is not exactly brand new. Way back in the 17th century, English doctor Robert Wittie published a book entitled Scarborough Spa, in which he recommended people take sea baths and walk along the coast to treat certain illnesses.
Why is it good? What about people like me who don’t live close to the sea at all then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could custobots do our shopping for us in a few years time?
What are some of the more unusual Royal servants jobs from the past?
Are cold showers good for you?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/20/2024 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
What is the olive theory from Tiktok?
The olive theory actually started trending on Tiktok as of early 2023, leading younger generations to get familiar with How I Met Your Mother and one of its most popular relationship theories. At the time of recording, the #olivetheory hashtag has accrued over 130M views.
Fans of 2000s sitcom How I Met Your Mother can no doubt remember how the main character Ted Mosby is a hopeless romantic, and spends the duration of the series searching for his soulmate. But only the most hardcore of fans will remember the very first episode of the Hulu series, when Ted introduces something called the olive theory when talking about relationships.
What on earth do olives have to do with romantic compatibility? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What’s the meaning of rizz, the 2023 word of the year?
Can we really multitask effectively?
What is the Honours list and who is on it this year?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 22/09/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/20/2024 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
Could custobots do our shopping for us in a few years time?
The subject of today’s episode is a form of technology that’s halfway between artificial intelligence and blockchain. What’s more, American technology consulting company Gartner included it in its list of the Top 10 Strategic Technology Trends for 2024.
The word is a combination of "customer" and "robot." Gartner say that custobot systems are capable of autonomously negotiating and purchasing goods and services in exchange for payment. They’re intelligent enough to behave like customers, buying services and supplies for both their owners and themselves.
Do you have any concrete examples of how one could use a custobot? Is there any use for regular people? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What’s the meaning of rizz, the 2023 word of the year?
Can we really multitask effectively?
What is the Honours list and who is on it this year?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/19/2024 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What are some of the more unusual Royal servants jobs from the past?
You might think that working for the Queen or any other member of the Royal family is a glamorous and prestigious job, but not all positions within the British Royal Household are as glamorous as they sound.
Some of them are downright weird, and some of them no longer exist. An exhibition opening in Kensington palace from March ‘Untold Lives: A Palace at Work’ hopes to bring to life these forgotten professionals who kept the palace running.
What are some roles that no longer exist? What are some unusual roles that still exist? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What’s the meaning of rizz, the 2023 word of the year?
Can we really multitask effectively?
What is the Honours list and who is on it this year?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/18/2024 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
Are cold showers good for you?
Even during the summer, the mere idea of taking an ice cold shower may well be enough to give you the shivers. After all, the soothing feeling of warm water running over skin is what most people prefer.
But a lot of social media content creators claim to have reaped health benefits from taking cold showers. They tend to talk about blood circulation, skin quality and the immune system. So do their claims have any basis in fact or are they just seeking attention?
What’s the impact on blood circulation? It's also said that cold showers are good for mental health, is that true? Can cold showers be harmful to the body? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
What is pandemic skip?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 06/09/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/18/2024 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What’s the meaning of rizz, the 2023 word of the year?
You may well be familiar with Oxford University Press, and its annual “word of the year" award. Regular listeners may remember that the 2022 word of the year was "goblin mode," as we ran a dedicated episode on the topic around a year ago.
Now for the 2023 award, "swifties," "situationship," and "prompt" were among the final four terms in the running. But those three fell just short. Drumroll, please— it was the less well-known term "rizz" that took the crown.
Who came up with the word “rizz” then? How do I use it in a sentence then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
What is pandemic skip?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/17/2024 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
Can we really multitask effectively?
It's pretty common these days to have to tackle several things at once, like responding to an email while on a work call. Our constant pursuit of productivity leads us to mix various activities simultaneously, whether it's at work, home, or even at school for kids.
This blending of at least two tasks at the same time is commonly known as multitasking. When you focus on something that you’re doing or creating, the frontal lobes of both halves of your brain communicate. But trying to pull off two things at once shows that things operate differently.
How so? Does it also depend on the nature of the tasks? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
What is pandemic skip?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/17/2024 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
What is the Honours list and who is on it this year?
The Honours list is a way of recognising people who have made achievements in public life or committed themselves to serving and helping the UK. The honours system is overseen by the Cabinet Office and the King approves the final list of recipients. There are different types of honours, such as knighthoods, damehoods, orders of the British Empire, and medals.
Anyone can nominate someone for an honour, as long as they are not a close relative or an employee. The nominations are then reviewed by independent committees of experts, who make recommendations to the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister then submits a final list to the King, who has the final say.
Who is on the Honours list this year? What are the different honours? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the pros and cons of homeownership in the UK?
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
Why does the year begin on January 1st?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/16/2024 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
Which foods should I avoid after their expiry date?
Some expired food products are easy to identify, due to an unpleasant smell, mould, swollen packaging or abnormal colour for example. But others show no visible changes in texture, colour, or smell. In such cases, you might well ask yourself if the item is still safe to consume.
To begin with, it's important to note that some products don’t expire, as long as they’re stored in the right conditions, as indicated on the packaging. For example, pasta, tinned goods, rice, sugar, flour, coffee, dry cakes, honey or vinegar. These tend to have an indicative "best before" date on the packaging, usually noted in the month-year format. But even if you go past that date, the product won’t be unfit for consumption. However, it may have lost some of its sensory qualities like taste, texture, or appearance.
So, which expired foods should definitely not be eaten? Does an opened product still have the same "use by" date? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
What is pandemic skip?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 30/09/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/16/2024 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
Why is swearing actually good for us?
Do you ever feel bad about swearing out of frustration? You know, when someone cuts in front of you while you're driving, you stub your toe or you accidentally delete an important file from your phone or PC.
Well its understandable if you want to keep your emotions under control, or not set a bad example to any children around you. But maybe you shouldn't actually feel bad. It turns out that saying rude words may actually be good for us. And that's according to science!
How come? Are there any specific situations in which it helps then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
What is pandemic skip?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/15/2024 • 3 minutes, 43 seconds
How can I get cheaper flight tickets?
According to recent data from personal finance website NimbleFins, the average British family of four spent around £4,678 for a 9-night holiday abroad in 2023. And of that total amount, £1,828 went towards flights, nearly 40%, reflecting the reality that air fares still account for a high proportion of the total cost of a holiday.
And experts say that flight prices are set to continue rising in the coming years, as more expensive sustainable aviation fuels are brought in to replace traditional kerosene. With that in mind, let’s discuss some ways in which you can make some savings on the most expensive part of your next holiday.
What should I do if I’m buying online? When’s the best time to make my booking? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
What is pandemic skip?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/14/2024 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
How can I reduce my belly fat?
The infamous little belly bulge located around the abdomen can be a source of self-consciousness for many people. Getting rid of it is often one of the main motivations for people looking to lose weight. However, reducing or shedding this abdominal fat can prove to be quite the challenge.
But belly fat, also known as visceral fat, isn't only a cosmetic concern. It’s a serious risk factor for many chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and even some cancers.
Why is visceral fat dangerous? Why is abdominal fat so difficult to shift? What are the tips to get ride of it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
What is pandemic skip?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 04/08/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/14/2024 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What is the baby food diet linked to a number of celebrities?
We've talked about a few gimmick diets in the past on Do You Really Know, and here's another one: the "baby food" diet. Now you may not have heard of it, but it has gained popularity among celebrities worldwide. Rumours have abound in the past suggesting that stars like Jennifer Aniston, Lady Gaga, and Cheryl Cole were embracing it, Due to the quick slimming it promises through low-calorie meals.
The diet involves consuming between ten and fourteen jars of baby food over the course of the day, for a duration of fifteen days. The baby food replaces the first two meals of the day, but in the evening a "normal meal" is allowed. The diet was crafted by renowned American celebrity trainer coach Tracy Anderson in the 2000s.
It sounds pretty extreme though, doesn't it? Aren't extreme diets generally discouraged anyway? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
What is pandemic skip?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/13/2024 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
What is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal is a type of plastic surgery that involves removing the buccal fat pads from your cheeks. These are rounded pads of fat that are located between your facial muscles, in the hollow area beneath your cheekbones. Their size affects your face shape; the larger they are the rounder or fuller your face appears.
The goal of buccal fat removal is to thin the cheeks and define the facial angles. Some people may want to do this to achieve a more sculpted or chiseled look, or to enhance their cheekbones and jawline. This procedure is also sometimes called a cheek reduction.
Why has it become more popular recently? How is the procedure done? What are the risks with this procedure? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the pros and cons of homeownership in the UK?
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
Why does the year begin on January 1st?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 29/09/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/13/2024 • 4 minutes
How can I have a healthier relationship with my smartphone?
For a number of years now, our smartphones have played a central role in many aspects of our lives, from work to personal relationships to entertainment. There’s a close and sometimes addictive connection.
Just think of doomscrolling for example, which is a phenomenon we’ve discussed in the past on Do You Really Know. It’s a form of behaviour which sees us compulsively scrolling through depressing content on social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok. It can easily end up draining us, leaving us feeling unfulfilled and possibly leading to anxiety or exhaustion.
How can I recognise if I’m addicted to my smartphone? What about at other times of the day? What’s the best way to get started? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
What is pandemic skip?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/12/2024 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
What is London's No Trouser Day?
You may have seen it on the news, on social media, or even on the tube: hundreds of people riding the underground with no trousers on, in the middle of winter. On Sunday the 7th of December London commuters braved the cold to strip off to their underwear for this unusual event.
The No Trousers Tube Ride, as it is officially called, is an annual event that takes place on the first Sunday of January. It started in London in 2009, inspired by the No Pants Subway Ride, which was created by Improv Everywhere, a New York-based comedy collective, in 2002.
What does it mean? Is it a protest, a prank, or a party? What is the reaction to the event? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the pros and cons of homeownership in the UK?
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
Why does the year begin on January 1st?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/11/2024 • 4 minutes, 1 second
Can naps keep the brain healthy?
If you like to take a short nap during the day you might be doing your brain a favor. According to a study published in the journal Sleep Health in June of 2023, people who have a genetic predisposition to napping regularly have larger brain volumes than those who don’t.
This suggests that napping may protect against brain shrinkage, which occurs faster in people with cognitive problems and neurodegenerative diseases. But before you rush to your bed or couch, there are some caveats to consider.
What did the study find? How does napping protect against brain shrinkage? What are the optimal conditions for a nap? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the pros and cons of homeownership in the UK?
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
Why does the year begin on January 1st?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/11/2024 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
Which foods change our body odour?
Did you know that each of us has a truly unique body odour, which is influenced by a mix of genetic, hormonal, age-related, environmental, and lifestyle factor? And your diet plays a role in shaping your natural scent.
Some foods have their own noticeably strong odours, like garlic or onions for example, and can in turn cause us to sweat more. The same goes for spices and chili, which makes sense given how hot they are. If you eat a lot of turmeric, you may notice a tangy aroma emanating straight from your skin pores, caused by an uptick in sweat acidity and the presence of a molecule called carvone.
Is there anything else that could explain a change in odour? Are there any foods that can improve body odour? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
What is pandemic skip?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/10/2024 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
How could the 52 week method help me save money?
Let’s be honest; who among us doesn’t daydream about having saving money effortlessly? The new year period is often synonymous with ambitious resolutions, but let's face it: they can be tough to stick to, especially when it comes to money.
The hard part isn’t only having enough money coming in to set some aside; being organised enough to do is also a challenge. So let’s introduce a simple and quirky method that could help you save nearly £1,400 in 2024: the 52-week challenge.
Isn't it a big commitment? Are there any tips for seeing it through? What’s the best thing about the challenge? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
What is pandemic skip?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/10/2024 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
What is the UK Sports personality of the year award?
The SPOTY award is the main prize of an annual ceremony organised by the BBC. It was created in 1954 by Paul Fox, who was the editor of a sports magazine show called Sportsview. The idea was to honour the sportsperson who had achieved the most that year, as voted by the public. The first winner was Christopher Chataway, a runner who beat Roger Bannister, the first man to run a mile in under four minutes.
Since then, the award has become one of the most prestigious and popular awards in British sport. It has been won by legends such as Bobby Moore, Daley Thompson, Steve Redgrave, Kelly Holmes and Andy Murray. The award is open to any sportsperson who is British or who plays a significant amount of their sport in the UK. The winner is chosen from a shortlist of 10 nominees, selected by an expert panel, and announced live on TV in December.
Who won for 2023? Why was this person chosen? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the pros and cons of homeownership in the UK?
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
Why does the year begin on January 1st?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/9/2024 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
What is a faecal transplant?
Faecal transplant, also known as faecal microbiota transplantation or FMT, is the transfer of stool from a healthy donor to a patient with a disease.
The idea is to restore the balance of bacteria in the gut, which can be disrupted by factors such as antibiotics, diet, or infection but it could potentially help with a range of problems from irritable bowel syndrome to Alzheimer’s.
Why is faecal transplant used? How does faecal transplant work? How is faecal transplant performed? What are the risks of faecal transplant? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
What is pandemic skip?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 10/08/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/9/2024 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
Do we really need to eat more during winter?
Whether it's a reflex, a craving, or a belief in its necessity, people often find themselves snacking more in winter, or opting for heartier meals than usual. And it's been backed up by scientific studies. For example, a 2006 Massachusetts study found that we eat an average of 86 more calories per day in winter.
And While it's true that colder temperatures make us burn more calories, the difference is actually quite minimal. When it's chilly outside, our metabolism works harder to keep our body at around 37°C, resulting in slightly higher energy expenditure. This process is known as thermoregulation but in reality, our warm clothing and indoor heating already play a significant role!
Are you saying we shouldn't really compensate by eating more? So, what kinds of foods should we focus on? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How often should I shower?
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/8/2024 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
Why does our nose run when I'm sick?
Are you feeling the chills, a scratchy throat, and a non-stop runny nose? Winter brings the cold bug everywhere – in public transport, at work, and even at home. Coughs and sneezes all around!
Getting a stuffy nose is another annoying symptom that can keep us tossing and turning at night. But surprisingly, it's a crucial mechanism for keeping us healthy. To combat the situation, our body produces mucus.
When you say Mucus, do you mean snot? So, what should we do when our nose is running? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How often should I shower?
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/7/2024 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
Could I save more money by cash stuffing?
With inflation at the highest it’s been in 45 years, it’s no wonder people are looking for ways to manage their money more effectively. And the trend we’re talking about today has really taken off on Tiktok since the start of the year. The #cashstuffing hashtag had already reached 1 billion views on the platform at the time of recording.
There’s actually nothing new about cash stuffing; in many ways it’s as if we were going back in time a few decades to when bank cards didn’t exist. It consists of allocating a certain amount of money to an expenditure category, like groceries for example.
How does it work then? Does it actually work then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the pros and cons of homeownership in the UK?
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
Why does the year begin on January 1st?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 03/05/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/7/2024 • 3 minutes, 59 seconds
What is social loafing, the latest harmful workplace trend?
The landscape of work has been undergoing significant changes in recent years, and in particular since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. From the surge in remote work to the emergence of "lazy girl jobs" and generative AI, a profound revolution is unfolding.
Yet, some aspects of the work environment seem resistant to change. Remember that person who contributed little to nothing in a group project at school, yet somehow managed to get the best grade? Frustrating as hell and puzzling for everyone else right? Well, that kind of behaviour is also sometimes seen in work colleagues, and it's recently been labelled as "Social Loafing."
How can I recognize Social Loafing in the workplace then? Is it just a matter of laziness, then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
What is pandemic skip?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/6/2024 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
How do sim swapping scams work?
Most of us have our smartphones on our person more or less all day, every day. Our photos, payment methods and a lot of personal data are stored on them. So we’re all wary of the risk of having them stolen when out in public.
But did you know there’s another way someone can take control of your phone line without you even losing the device? It’s called sim swapping and while it’s not new, it’s been on the rise in recent years. According to the FBI, Americans lost a combined $68M to sim swapping scams in 2021. One of the most high-profile examples saw Twitter founder Jack Dorsey fall prey to it in 2019.
How does SIM swapping work? How can I avoid falling victim to SIM swapping? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the pros and cons of homeownership in the UK?
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
Why does the year begin on January 1st?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast : 07/05/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/6/2024 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
How often should I shower?
Whether it's for the sake of comfort or maintaining good hygiene, many of us opt for taking a shower on a daily basis. Studies have shown it's the most popular shower frequency. Some swear by the virtues of a refreshing morning shower while others like theirs in the evening when winding down and getting ready for bed.
But in actual fact, our bodies are pretty adept at self-cleaning. For instance, dead skin cells shed completely naturally! If you're someone who showers more than once a day, you may be stripping away too much sebum, which is a crucial component of the skin's protective barrier.
Daily showers also stop us smelling bad, right? Is there a downside to washing too often? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
What is pandemic skip?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/5/2024 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
Could Britain ever rejoin the EU?
The Brexit deal, signed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson in December 2020, has had a profound impact on the UK's economy, society, and politics. But what if Britain changed its mind and wanted to go back to the EU?
According to Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union, any European country that respects the EU's values and is committed to promoting them can apply to become a member of the EU. This means that, in theory, Britain could rejoin the EU at any time, as long as it meets the criteria and follows the procedure set out by the EU.
Is it possible then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the pros and cons of homeownership in the UK?
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
Why does the year begin on January 1st?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/4/2024 • 4 minutes, 1 second
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
Eating a healthy diet that includes a lot of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and fish can help you keep your brain in tip-top shape. There are plenty of brain boosting foods but here are five that you might want to start including.
First of all, oily fish. When people talk about brain foods this is often at the top of the list. This type of fish includes salmon, trout, tuna, herring, and sardines, all of which are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are a major building block of the brain, and they play a role in sharpening memory and improving mood, as well as protecting your brain against cognitive decline.
What if you do not eat fish? What foods are good for memory? What’s an all round good food for the brain? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the pros and cons of homeownership in the UK?
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
Why does the year begin on January 1st?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 27 /06/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/4/2024 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
What are the best hangover foods?
If you wake up feeling rough after a night of heavy drinking, it's likely your liver couldn't handle all that alcohol, and your body couldn't flush it out completely. That's when you get stuck with classic hangover symptoms, like nausea, a pounding headache and perhaps even a bout of diarrhoea. Apart from chugging water to rehydrate, figuring out what to eat to get back on your feet can be a bit tricky.
When you're in this situation, there's often a hankering for fast food. A 2016 study from the University of Chicago's Department of Medicine suggested this craving is linked to sleep deprivation, which causes the brain to release endocannabinoids, compensating for the energy drop. That leads to a yearning for comfort food, often on the greasier or sweeter side. Interestingly, the sweeter the alcohol you consume, the more likely it is that your appetite will be revved up the next day.
Why does that happen? So what should else we eat then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the pros and cons of homeownership in the UK?
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
Why does the year begin on January 1st?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/3/2024 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What is pandemic skip?
The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic is still palpable, with repercussions stretching across various facets like the economy, education, and health. These sectors took a severe hit due to the virus and the ensuing lockdowns.
On a more personal level, our mental well-being has faced significant challenges. According to the World Health Organistion, the world saw a 25% increase in the prevalence of anxiety and depression worldwide during the first year of the pandemic. Amidst this continued unease, a new sentiment has emerged, and it’s been labelled "pandemic skip".
What does it mean? Who’s most affected by this phenomenon? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the pros and cons of homeownership in the UK?
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
Why does the year begin on January 1st?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/3/2024 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
What are the pros and cons of homeownership in the UK?
Currently there are many people that just feel they cannot get onto the property ladder, but is buying your own home really the best way to invest your money? Well, there are many benefits to owning your home, such as the stability and peace of mind that it can bring you. You can’t be evicted by a landlord, you can decorate and furnish it as you want, and you can enjoy the social and psychological benefits of having a place to call your own.
Another benefit is you can save money. When interest rates are low, and if you have a big deposit, owning your home can be cheaper than renting. You can also control your monthly payments with a fixed mortgage. And of course you can make money. In a rising property market, you can benefit from the increase in property values. You can also use your home as an asset to borrow money, or rent it out if you live elsewhere for a while.
What are the cons then? And what are the advantages of renting? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is body neutrality?
What are the most popular and unusual baby names in the UK?
How can I return unwanted gifts?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/2/2024 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
For many new year’s is a great time to take a look at your life and make some changes. Unfortunately, According to the time management firm FranklinCovey, one third of resolutions fail before the end of January.
There are three main reasons resolutions fail. Firstly, resolutions made because of what you think you ‘ought’ to do, are not likely to succeed. Next, being too vague and finally not having a realistic plan of how you intend to achieve your goal are all signs that your resolution will probably not make it. Your resolutions should be SMART. By that, I mean specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. This acronym is a great way to think about your resolutions and experts agree.
Why do so many resolutions fail? How do you make successful resolutions? How do I know when I'm setting unrealistic goals for myself? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is future faking?
Why are we so fascinated by true crime?
Why is the UK not as happy as it used to be?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/2/2024 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
Why does the year begin on January 1st?
As we embrace resolutions and light up the skies with fireworks, it's time to mark the arrival of the New Year! All of us on the Do You Really Know team, hoping you soaked in the holiday vibes and send you our warm wishes for a splendid 2024. Today, planet Earth has set off on another full orbit around the sun, a journey which will span 365 days until we hit the reset button again next year. And that's why we now refer to January 1st as New Year's Day. But bear in mind, that wasn't always the case.
We can trace back our calendar roots to the Romans and their initial 355-day calendar. That’s right: 355, and not the 365 we're used to these days. That lunar-based system was credited to Numa Pompilius, the legendary second King of Rome, who succeeded Romulus. And it saw the New Year kick off in March, a nod to Mars, the Roman god of war.
When did January 1st appear then? What about elsewhere in the world? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is body neutrality?
What are the most popular and unusual baby names in the UK?
How can I return unwanted gifts?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/1/2024 • 4 minutes, 56 seconds
Which Wikipedia pages were most visited in 2023?
It's been over two decades since Wikipedia flipped the script on how we gather information. Every year, millions of us turn to it to feed our curiosity or settle friendly debates. Now there might be doubts over how reliable it is, but Wikipedia can count on the over 250,000 volunteers who keep it a top-notch source by regularly updating its pages.
In 2023, the English-language version of Wikipedia racked up a whopping 84 billion page views. But of course, some pages stood out more than others.
Are you saying there’s a ranking? What about number one then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is body neutrality?
What are the most popular and unusual baby names in the UK?
How can I return unwanted gifts?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/31/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
Am I listening to music too loud?
Whether it’s in the street, on public transport or at home, almost all of us use headphones or earphones to listen to music. Now music might bring us joy and a whole lot of other emotions, but when it’s too loud, it can also represent a risk for hearing health.
The same is also true when going to entertainment venues like nightclubs, bars, music concert arenas and sports stadia. The danger comes when the sound level gets too high, we’re exposed to it for too long, or worse, both.
What are healthy listening levels then? Are there any warning signs to look out for? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is future faking?
Why are we so fascinated by true crime?
Why is the UK not as happy as it used to be?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 30/01/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/31/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
Why do we get bad breath in the morning?
It’s somewhat unpleasant when you wake up with halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath, but it’s actually a totally normal and natural phenomenon. A 2018 research review on the subject found that as many as 31.8% of people are affected. What’s more, it can happen even if you brush your teeth carefully the night before. There are actually quite a few different factors that contribute to morning bad breath.
One of those is to do with ketones, a type of energy source formed when glucose is not readily available, usually when our stomach is empty. Now while we sleep our bodies generate ketones, and the liver releases these compounds as a compensatory energy mechanism after we eat a meal. Their distinct odour is partly responsible when we have less-than-fresh morning breath.
What are the other reasons? Why do we sometimes have bad breath during the day? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is future faking?
Why are we so fascinated by true crime?
Why is the UK not as happy as it used to be?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What does Mercury in retrograde mean?
As you may well know, astrology involves looking at the position of planets and stars when we were born, and using that to interpret their influence on our lives. Mercury happens to be one of the planets which is supposed to have the most influence and that’s particularly true when it’s in retrograde, which happens several times a year.
Planets in our solar system orbit around the sun. If you think about it, those that are closest to the Sun have to travel the distance to complete a full orbit. Of all the planets, Mercury is closest to the Sun, and it actually completes a full rotation in just 88 days, compared to the 365 days it takes planet Earth.
What does that mean in concrete terms? Why are astrologers interested in this phenomenon? Is Mercury being in retrograde always negative then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is future faking?
Why are we so fascinated by true crime?
Why is the UK not as happy as it used to be?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 29/03/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
What is body neutrality?
According to a 2019 online survey conducted by the Mental Health Foundation and YouGov, over a third of UK adults have felt anxious or depressed because of their body image. Although that particular survey didn’t specifically address how gender affected the chances of someone feeling unsatisfied about their appearance, the summary acknowledged that it is often more common among young women.
We’ve talked about the increasing popularity of the body positive movement in the past on Do You Really Know, but such findings show that it hasn't yet fundamentally shifted women's perspectives on their bodies. The pressure to have a ‘perfect body’ remains significant. However, there’s a new trend out there which suggests adopting a more measured and neutral stance towards our appearance, rather than advocating unconditional self-love. It’s known as body neutrality.
Where does this movement come from? So, does this mean we shouldn't love our bodies anymore? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is future faking?
Why are we so fascinated by true crime?
Why is the UK not as happy as it used to be?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/29/2023 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
What are the most popular and unusual baby names in the UK?
According to the most recent data from the Office for National Statistics. For boys, the top name was Noah, which replaced Oliver from the previous year. For girls, the top name was Olivia, which remained the same for the sixth year in a row. Other popular names for boys included Henry, Arlo, Sebastian and Luca, while for girls, Freya, Florence, Willow and Alys were among the favourites.
There are many factors that can influence parents' choices, such as family traditions, personal preferences, cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, and even celebrities. For example, some parents may name their children after famous actors, singers, sports stars, or characters from books, movies, or TV shows.
What about uncommon names? Why do some parents opt for these unconventional names? What are the predictions for popular names in 2024? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is future faking?
Why are we so fascinated by true crime?
Why is the UK not as happy as it used to be?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
How can I return unwanted gifts?
It’s great to be remembered by friends, colleagues, and family at Christmas, but despite people’s best intentions, they don't always get you what you want. So now the festive season is over and the wrapping is off it might be time to take some of those gifts back rather than let them gather dust in a cupboard.
If you bought something, in-store or online and it is faulty then by law you can get a full refund if you return it within 30 days. After 30 days, the store's obliged to provide a repair or a replacement. However, legally speaking, you do not have the right to return an item because you don't like it. That said most shops have their own, generous returns policy so it is worth finding out what their terms are before you try and return an unwanted item and expect the money back if they only offer exchanges or store credit.
What’s a gift receipt? When should you return your items by? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Which types of alcohol should we avoid mixing?
Why do we kiss under the mistletoe?
What is erectile dysfunction?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 27/12/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/28/2023 • 4 minutes
What is future faking?
“I can’t wait for us to get married;” “Let’s travel the world together;” “We’re going to have two kids and buy that apartment across the street” When you’re in a romantic relationship, it can be genuinely heartwarming to hear your partner paint a vibrant picture of days ahead. But what about if it happens much earlier than you expected - say on your second or third date? Usually at that stage, you're still figuring each other out, so beware - it could be a sign of what’s known as future faking.
Of course, there’s no one single pace for all relationships to abide by, but generally speaking couples don’t make life plans or even say “I love you” within the first couple weeks of dating. So it’s only really a red flag when talk of those kinds of plans pop up too early. In some cases, you could be dealing with a narcissist who’s using false promises to win you over in the moment, creating an illusion of intimacy when in reality they’re not thinking about the future at all. Hence the name: future faking.
Is it similar to love bombing? How can I deal with a future faking partner? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I protect my mental health during the holiday season?
Why is the UK not as happy as it used to be?
Why do we give each other gifts at Christmas?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 55 seconds
Why are we so fascinated by true crime?
The 21st century has seen true crime stories surge in popularity, dominating bookshelves and TV schedules. Documentaries like Making A Murderer and podcasts like Serial, which investigate real-life crimes, have become smash hits, attracting millions of viewers and downloads. Over in the US, a 2022 YouGov poll revealed that half of Americans enjoy true crime content, with one in three consuming it weekly.
True crime is a unique genre, and distinct from detective fiction or thrillers due to its non-fictional nature. To comprehend the modern fascination with true crime, you have to venture back in time. The roots of the cultural phenomenon trace back to the early days of penny dreadfuls, crime novels and sensationalised crime reporting in the 19th century.
How did it become popular? What is it about true crime that captivates so many people? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I protect my mental health during the holiday season?
Why is the UK not as happy as it used to be?
Why do we give each other gifts at Christmas?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
Why is the UK not as happy as it used to be?
According to the World happiness report, of the 137 countries they include, the UK has fallen to 19th position. This follows a steady decline over the past few years although they are happier than Lithuania in 20th position and France in 21st position. As ever Finland has continued its winning streak and stays at number one just above New Zealand.
The report combines both subjective well-being assessments and objective indicators. Respondents rate their own current lives on a scale from 0 to 10. They ask people to imagine a ladder with the best possible life for them being a 10 and the worst possible life being a 0.
What has caused the decrease in happiness? Is this the same all across the UK? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Which types of alcohol should we avoid mixing?
Why do we kiss under the mistletoe?
What is erectile dysfunction?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
How can I protect my mental health during the holiday season?
Christmas is seen as a season of joy, but it can also be a testing time for many people, whether it’s mentally, emotionally, physically or financially. And 2022 may be worse than most years in that respect.
Most of the population are feeling additional pressure due to the cost-of-living crisis, and Christmas tends to be an expensive time. Furthermore, upsetting news stories have been dominating headlines throughout the year, like the ongoing war in Ukraine following Russia’s invasion, the global climate crisis and new waves of Covid 19.
What’s the best way to deal with difficult family situations? What strategies can I adopt? What should I do if it all just gets too much? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
At which time of day do we burn the most calories?
Why does the cold make us need to pee?
How can I meditate without meditating?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 22/12/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
Why do we give each other gifts at Christmas?
In the UK, Christmas is synonymous with festive meals, Yule logs, and the classic roast turkey. We adorn our homes with red, gold, and green decorations, and the Christmas tree takes center stage – a topic we've previously explored on this podcast. These traditions have become so ingrained in our lives that we rarely question their origins. Take, for instance, the tradition of exchanging Christmas gifts.
Is the act of gift-giving tied to Christianity? How did New Year's gifts evolve into Christmas gifts then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do we kiss under the mistletoe?
Where did the story of the Grinch come from?
Why do the Japanese eat KFC at Christmas?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
What is Christmas tree syndrome?
Sniffling, sneezing, itchy eyes, asthma flare-ups, and even sleep disruptions. If you're wondering why you're dealing with all the telltale signs of hay fever smack in the middle of December, you might just be grappling with what's commonly known as the Christmas tree syndrome.
In a nutshell, it's a seasonal allergy triggered by the presence of mould in the needles and trunk of the tree. The cosy and humid indoor setting provides the perfect breeding ground for mould, which had already set up camp on the tree back when it was outside.
So, what does this mean in everyday terms? What other exposures are we talking about? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do we kiss under the mistletoe?
Where did the story of the Grinch come from?
Why do the Japanese eat KFC at Christmas?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
Why does Norway offer a Christmas tree to London every year?
If you have ever been to London over Christmas then you could not have missed the lights on oxford street and of course the huge Christmas tree standing proud in Trafalgar Square. But it is a little-known fact that this tree is actually a gift from Norway.
The very first tree was offered to England back in 1947 and every year since a tree is given to the British people from Norway to thank them for their support during WWII. During the war, Norway was occupied by Germany. The country, which had been at peace for over 150 years, surrendered quickly. But if Hitler thought that getting Norway to collaborate would be easy he was wrong. The king of Norway Haakon VII, in a fraught journey that nearly cost him his life on numerous occasions, fled to London.
When did this tradition start? How did the UK support Norway? How does it get to London from Norway? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
At which time of day do we burn the most calories?
Why does the cold make us need to pee?
How can I meditate without meditating?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 20/12/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
What are the strangest Christmas traditions?
In the Western world, we celebrate Christmas on December 25th to honour the birth of Jesus, a tradition dating back to around the year 300 AD. But well before that, various cultures had been marking the end of the year as a symbol of life's renewal. Over time, Christmas has transcended its origins and found unique expressions in different corners of the globe, from Brazil and Ethiopia to Japan and Egypt.
Let’s take Nordic countries, for instance. Their holiday traditions, especially the culinary ones, can get quite bizarre. In Greenland, Christmas delicacies include Mattak – raw whale skin served with whale blubber.
Are there other traditions? What about the kids? Are there any less creepy traditions? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do we kiss under the mistletoe?
Where did the story of the Grinch come from?
Why do the Japanese eat KFC at Christmas?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/23/2023 • 3 minutes, 47 seconds
Why does Christmas boost our libido?
According to a study published in the Scientific Reports journal in 2017, the holiday season sees a peak in sex-related searches on Google and Twitter. The researchers behind the study also identified an increase in birth rates in late September, in other words nine months after Christmas of the previous year.
So the evidence is there: for many of us, sexual desire increases at Christmas time. The study was called “Human Sexual Cycles are Driven by Culture and Match Collective Moods”, suggesting there’s something about our mood during the holiday season. And it’s not just Christmas.
What’s the science behind all that then? Does it apply to other culture holidays? Christmas can also be a stressful period though, can’t it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
At which time of day do we burn the most calories?
Why does the cold make us need to pee?
How can I meditate without meditating?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 21/12/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/23/2023 • 3 minutes, 37 seconds
Which types of alcohol should we avoid mixing?
During the extended holiday feasts, it's common to let loose a little, perhaps mixing different kinds of alcohol. You might start out with a glass of champagne, then movie to wine or beer, and end the meal with a digestif. That’s despite the widespread belief that combining alcohol types can worsen the unpleasant aftermath of a hangover and all the symptoms that brings, like nausea, headaches, dehydration, vomiting, palpitations, and dizziness.
First of all, it’s important to note that ethanol, the molecule found in all alcoholic drinks, gets partly expelled through urine, sweat, and breath. The liver also filters a portion, converting ethanol into acetaldehyde, the culprit behind hangover symptoms. Unfortunately, the liver can only handle a limited amount.
So is it really more about how much alcohol you consume, then? What are these other substances? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
At which time of day do we burn the most calories?
Why does the cold make us need to pee?
How can I meditate without meditating?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
Why do we kiss under the mistletoe?
Mistletoe is a small evergreen parasitic plant that grows in clusters on trees. It has white berries and it has been used for centuries as a symbol of love, fertility, and peace. The Greeks used mistletoe as a cure for all sorts of ailments while the Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder noted it could be used as a balm against epilepsy, ulcers and poisons.
The Druids came to view it as a sacred symbol of vivacity, and they gave it to humans and animals alike in the hope of restoring fertility. However, one of the most popular legends about mistletoe and probably the reason we associated this plant with kissing dates back to Norse mythology.
But how did it become associated with kissing? How did kissing under the mistletoe become popular? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
At which time of day do we burn the most calories?
Why does the cold make us need to pee?
How can I meditate without meditating?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
What is erectile dysfunction?
As many as six in ten men have experienced erection problems over the course of their life. And that proportion has been on the rise in the last fifteen years, according to a study released by IFOP in April 2019. It’s also known as impotence, and is a big health taboo among men.
Erectile dysfunction is often linked to cardiovascular risk factors, so it’s important to consult a doctor if affected. Furthermore, it can impact relationships, sometimes due to misunderstandings about the cause of the problem. The good news is it can be addressed with lifestyle changes, as we’ll discuss in a minute.
How do erections actually work? So why might that mechanism not work in some people? What about psychological or emotional factors?
First broadcast: 07/02/2022
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12/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
Why do the Japanese eat KFC at Christmas?
On the evening of December 24th, as many households in the UK prepare for festive gatherings with traditional roast turkey and yule log, an intriguing Christmas tradition unfolds in Japan. In the land of the rising sun, people aren't bustling around their kitchens; instead, they're braving the winter cold to queue up for a unique holiday feast at KFC.
Many Japanese then return home with a special Christmas bucket in red, white, and green colors, containing fried chicken, coleslaw salad, a Japanese strawberry shortcake to share, and sometimes even champagne. Yes, Kentucky Fried Chicken has become a Christmas essential for millions of Japanese families.
And when did this tradition start? Where does KFC come in then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
At which time of day do we burn the most calories?
Why does the cold make us need to pee?
How can I meditate without meditating?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/20/2023 • 5 minutes
Where did the story of the Grinch come from?
During the festive season, what beats snuggling up under a blanket with a classic Christmas movie? If you're a '90s kid, you'll likely recall a certain massive hit from the year 2000. That's right, we're talking about The Grinch, starring Jim Carrey.
It sees Carrey play a recluse with a sour attitude who decides to spoil Christmas for the folks in Whoville, a small town nestled in a snowflake. And in English-speaking countries, the Grinch is a familiar character; someone might well be dubbed a "Grinch" if they show a miserly attitude towards Christmas.
Who's the genius behind the Grinch? How did Seuss come up with the Grinch character? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
At which time of day do we burn the most calories?
Why does the cold make us need to pee?
How can I meditate without meditating?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
Why do we associate red and green with Christmas?
Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, gift-giving and of course decorating. For the most part people tend to stick to ‘Christmassy colours’ especially red and green but these ‘traditional’ Christmas colours have a long history and symbolism.
Arielle Eckstut, author of The Secret Language of Color found that holly, with its green leaves and red berries has long played a role in winter solstice celebrations that predate Christmas. People revered holly plants for being evergreen and surviving the winter and used them as symbols of protection and prosperity in their midwinter celebrations.
“It’s like a lot of things that have to do with culture and colour, where it’s some combination of a natural phenomenon mixed with other cultural forces,” she says.
What cultural events have made red and green Christmassy? Do red and green have any religious significance? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
At which time of day do we burn the most calories?
Why does the cold make us need to pee?
How can I meditate without meditating?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
Christmas is coming, discover new episodes!
Christmas is coming and at Do You Really Know, we just can't wait! Now everybody knows that means pressies under the tree, precious family moments and a hearty Christmas dinner. It all calls for a lot of preparation, but the joy of the season makes it worth it, doesn't it! Still, the holiday season can cause some people to get the blues, so let's not forget them. This week, the team are discussing some of the main Christmas traditions and trends out there; and giving you advice on how to get the most out of this special time of year!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/19/2023 • 1 minute, 20 seconds
What are happy hormones?
A recent scientific brief from the World Health Organisation, explained that anxiety and depression had increased by 25% worldwide over the first year of the Covid 19 pandemic. The massive rise was mostly down to social isolation and multiple stress factors like fear of infection and financial worries.
It’s important to know that we can actually control our mood to some extent. It’s possible to boost our so-called happy hormones in natural ways, by opting for specific foods, activities and behaviours.
So how can we stimulate the production of these hormones and neurotransmitters? Why do they say that oxytocin is the love hormone? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
At which time of day do we burn the most calories?
Why does the cold make us need to pee?
How can I meditate without meditating?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 10/06/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
At which time of day do we burn the most calories?
To stay in shape, it's crucial that you watch what you eat and steer clear of snacks. What's less commonly known, though, is that there are specific times when the body burns more calories.
Researchers at Harvard University were astonished when they stumbled upon this revelation. In a 2018 study published in Current Biology, they found that, "The number of calories people burn at rest varies depending on the time of day." Even at rest, "People burn 10% more calories in the late afternoon and early evening compared to the early morning."
Impressive! How did they figure that out? That sounds like a challenging regimen!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the influence of the God complex in the workplace?
Why is panto a Christmas tradition in the UK?
Why are some kinds of fruit not considered vegan?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/18/2023 • 3 minutes, 30 seconds
Why does the cold make us need to pee?
We've all experienced it: the sudden urge to pee when it's cold is a common thing. This connection was supposedly discovered by Austrian physician Alfred Adler back in 1918. His experiment involved injecting cold water into a bladder to see how the body reacts. You might think it caused the kidneys to contract, but that's not the case...
What did Adler discover then? Are there other factors explaining the link between the bladder and cold? What can you do if you struggle to hold it in?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the influence of the God complex in the workplace?
Why is panto a Christmas tradition in the UK?
Why are some kinds of fruit not considered vegan?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/17/2023 • 4 minutes
How can I meditate without meditating?
Meditation is often sighted as a great way to relax, reduce stress and help us focus, but it can be difficult for lots of people to do in the traditional sense. However, meditation can be achieved without ever sitting down cross legged and focusing on your breathing. “The whole idea with mindfulness is training your brain, you can do this just as well by being intentionally mindful throughout the day. I don’t think there’s a right or wrong way, and it’s important to do practices that resonate with you.” says Joy Rains, a mindfulness practitioner and author for the Guardian.
Central to turning everyday activities into meditative activities is the idea of ‘mindfulness’ ; this is essentially the ability to be fully present, aware of where you are and what you’re doing. Then, like with meditation, when your mind wanders and you become engrossed in your thoughts or anxieties, being able to bring your consciousness back to the task in hand and be in the present.
How do I achieve mindfulness? What other activities are good for meditation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Which are the dirtiest parts of our bodies?
Why do we cross our fingers to wish for luck?
Which conspiracy theories were actually true?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 07/03/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/17/2023 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
Why do we cry?
Humans are the only creatures on Earth that shed tears. Whether it's tears of joy, laughter, anger, pain, sadness, or fatigue, the emotions that bring about crying are diverse. You might be familiar with these emotional triggers, but have you ever wondered about the physiological explanations behind them?
Let's start by categorising tears into three types. There are "basal" tears that maintain a continuous lubrication of the cornea, "reflex" tears that emerge when you're chopping onions, have dust in your eye, or encounter too much light, and then there are the emotional tears – and they’re the ones we're delving into today.
What happens in our eyes when we're sad? What about tears of joy then? But why does witnessing someone else cry make us want to do the same?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the influence of the God complex in the workplace?
Why is panto a Christmas tradition in the UK?
Why are some kinds of fruit not considered vegan?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
Should vapes have the same restrictions as cigarettes?
In the UK you can only buy vapes or e-cigarettes if you are over 18, but the bright packaging, fruit flavors and affordable prices attracts teenagers who often use disposable single-use products like Elf and Geek bars. Now campaigners are calling for tighter restrictions on vapes to bring them more into line with cigarettes.
The Local Government Association (LGA), which represents councils in England, is asking for vapes to adhere to the same rules as cigarettes. This would mean they would have to be sold in plain packaging and kept out of reach and sight of children behind shop counters. While the charity, Action on Smoking and Health (Ash) is also calling for a £4 tax on single disposable vapes to be added on top of the usual £4.99 price.
What would this change for vapes? Are vapes harmful? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Which are the dirtiest parts of our bodies?
Why do we cross our fingers to wish for luck?
Which conspiracy theories were actually true?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 28/02/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
What is the influence of the God complex in the workplace?
We've all had that moment of slipping on our headphones heading to school or work and feeling like an unstoppable force. But while most of us leave that unwavering confidence at the front door, for some, it's a whole different story. Their analyses are top-notch, decisions flawless, and social networks unbeatable. This phenomenon has a name – it's called the "god complex."
Where does this god complex come from then? What's behind the causes of the god complex? How can one break free from the god complex?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What were the Most Shocking Moments of the Turner Prize?
What's really in vegan meat substitutes?
Which are the dirtiest parts of our bodies?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
Why is panto a Christmas tradition in the UK?
Panto, short for pantomime, has become a staple of British Christmas celebrations but surprisingly its origins are neither British or Christmassy. It has its roots in the ancient Roman festival of Saturnalia, which was celebrated in December and involved dressing up as the opposite gender, swapping roles, and having a lot of fun.
The word ‘pantomime’ comes from the Latin ‘pantomimus’, which means ‘actor who plays every role’. The Romans also had a tradition of performing plays called mummia, which were based on stories from Egypt.
How did panto come to Britain? What are some of the earliest examples of panto in Britain? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What were the Most Shocking Moments of the Turner Prize?
What's really in vegan meat substitutes?
Which are the dirtiest parts of our bodies?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
How to make the most out of a rental property?
There are lots of advantages to renting rather than buying but one of the pitfalls is you have to live with your landlord's style choices. But just because you are renting does not mean you can’t adapt it to your own personal style without jeopardising your deposit. So here are some tips and advice about how to put your own flair into a temporary space.
First of all, if you do want to make changes like painting walls, adding wallpaper or putting up shelves you need to ask for permission from your landlord. Although these can be aesthetic and useful they can also be pricey and once you move out the landlord might ask you to put things back to how they were so it is worth considering carefully if you really need or want these changes. But there are lots of things you can do without making permanent adjustments to your home.
How can I personalise my rental home? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Which are the dirtiest parts of our bodies?
Why do we cross our fingers to wish for luck?
Which conspiracy theories were actually true?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 09/03/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
Are we more likely to fall in love when it's cold?
As winter quickly approaches, you might find yourself yearning to spend your evenings nestled on the couch, wrapped in a cosy blanket, sipping on hot tea or cocoa, all while enjoying a comforting movie – and ideally, with some company. You know, someone to share cuddles with. Who is that someone? Well, that's what cuffing season is all about.
Think of it as the time of year when temperatures drop, and single folks start looking to couple up for the duration of the winter – whether they're consciously seeking it or not. Interestingly, many breakups tend to happen come spring. While the term has been around for quite some time in North America, it gained popularity through the 2013 song 'Cuffin' Season' by rapper Fabolous. In it, he crooned, "Though we gotta say goodbye for the summer, baby, I promise you this, I'll send you all my love, every day in a letter, sealed with a kiss."
Does it really exists? And why ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What were the Most Shocking Moments of the Turner Prize?
What's really in vegan meat substitutes?
Which are the dirtiest parts of our bodies?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
Why are some kinds of fruit not considered vegan?
Ever had that moment when you're relishing a juicy fig, and someone drops the bomb that you might be chowing down on a wasp? Surprising as it sounds, it's true. Fig wasps do their thing by pollinating figs from the inside, but unfortunately, they sometimes get stuck in there! Now, bear in mind, these wasps are tiny, at around 1 to 2 mm tiny, so you won't notice them when you take a bite. But, let's switch gears from figs and delve into what makes a fruit not quite as vegan as you might think.
There are some steadfast rules for those rocking the vegan lifestyle: no animal flesh, no by-products from livestock like milk, eggs, cheese, or honey, and definitely no additives like E120, a colorant made from insects. That's the universal baseline. Beyond that, depending on personal beliefs, some might steer clear of non-organic or environmentally questionable items.
What about fruits that don't quite fit the vegan bill? How do I know if this is the case in my supermarket? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What were the Most Shocking Moments of the Turner Prize?
What's really in vegan meat substitutes?
Which are the dirtiest parts of our bodies?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
What were the Most Shocking Moments of the Turner Prize?
The Turner Prize was established in 1984 by a group of art patrons who wanted to celebrate and support innovative and experimental art in Britain. The prize is named after J.M.W. Turner, a radical painter who challenged the conventions of his time with his bold use of colour, light and movement. The prize is awarded every year by the Tate Gallery to an artist under 50 years old who has made a significant contribution to British art in the past year.
This year first prize was awarded to Jesse Darling, an Oxford-born artist who creates sculptures made of everyday objects that reflect the political and social realities of Britain and has received mixed reviews.
What are some of the more shocking works? And what makes the Turner Prize so shocking? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Which are the dirtiest parts of our bodies?
Why do we cross our fingers to wish for luck?
Which conspiracy theories were actually true?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/12/2023 • 4 minutes
What's really in vegan meat substitutes?
Despite the rising popularity of vegan or vegetarian lifestyles, many people still love the taste and texture of meat, or simply can’t kick the habit, having eaten meat throughout their lifetimes. That explains why the vegan meat substitute market is thriving.
These 100% plant-based products are a good source of protein and closely resemble meat in a number of ways. But no doubt many of you who eat them have wondered whether they’re actually better for the planet or for human health.
So what’s actually in them? And should we avoid meat substitutes? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Which are the dirtiest parts of our bodies?
Why do we cross our fingers to wish for luck?
Which conspiracy theories were actually true?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 11/03/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
Which are the dirtiest parts of our bodies?
Our bodies are covered in billions of bacteria, and while some are good for our skin barrier, others can be troublemakers, contributing to the development of skin diseases. In September 2023, American researchers from George Washington University published a study in Frontiers in Microbiology. It found that our skin hosts its own microbiota, much like our intestines.
This microbiota is a mix of millions of viruses, bacteria, and tiny fungi. Interestingly, they noted that the composition of the skin microbiota changes based on whether the skin is dry, moist, or oily. Over four years of studying the skin of 129 Americans, they pinpointed two areas with a high concentration of harmful bacteria.
Are we talking about the belly button and armpits? What kind of skin issues can these bacteria cause? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What causes tocophobia, the fear of pregnancy and childbirth?
Is it a good idea to sleep with my pet?
How did flat Earth conspiracy theory start?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/11/2023 • 3 minutes, 46 seconds
Why do we cross our fingers to wish for luck?
Whether it’s making a wish over a birthday cake, waiting for lottery results, or opening an email following a job interview, it's pretty common to cross your fingers. It’s a way of communicating that we’re hoping luck swings in our favor and our wishes come true. Often, you don’t even need to physically cross your fingers; simply saying "Fingers crossed” is enough to get the message across. But the roots of this tradition go way back.
In the Middle Ages, folks crossed their fingers to ward off the Devil, mimicking the famous exorcism phrase "Vade Retro Satana" or "Back off, Satan!" uttered by a priest holding a cross. Yet, people were crossing their fingers for luck long before the Middle Ages.
Are you saying that it originally had nothing to do with religion at all then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What causes tocophobia, the fear of pregnancy and childbirth?
Is it a good idea to sleep with my pet?
How did flat Earth conspiracy theory start?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/10/2023 • 3 minutes, 44 seconds
Which conspiracy theories were actually true?
The origins of Covid-19 still remain somewhat hazy, over three-and-a-half years since the virus began spreading across the world. That has led to a number of prominent conspiracy theories, with 25% of people in the UK believing that Covid was definitely or probably a hoax.
That finding was part of an April 2023 survey by Savanta for King’s College London and the BBC. It also established that belief in other conspiracy theories is relatively high too, like the idea that the cost of living crisis is a government plot to control the public. Of course, the vast majority of them are false, but there are certain exceptions to the rule.
What about the Watergate Scandal ? What about the Tuskegee Syphilis Study ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What's the best way to choose my toothpaste?
What are the dangers of hustle culture?
What is the Mandela Effect?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 26/07/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/10/2023 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
Is holding back a sneeze dangerous?
Whether it's a matter of courtesy or preventing the spread of germs, it's not uncommon for people to hold back a sneeze. When this happens, the intercostal muscles contract strongly, but without the release of air if the nose is pinched or the mouth is closed. However, sneezing is a natural bodily reflex designed to expel dust, microbes, or any other irritating substances from the nasal cavity.
Our respiratory system comes equipped with a filter lining the airways. Dust and allergens, for instance, are wrapped in mucus and propelled by vibratile cilia. Sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose helps expel this mixture, effectively cleansing the respiratory passages.
So are you saying that sneezing is important? What kind of consequences are we talking about? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What's the best way to choose my toothpaste?
Is it a good idea to sleep with my pet?
How did flat Earth conspiracy theory start?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/9/2023 • 3 minutes, 53 seconds
How can I recognise ultra-processed foods?
What do chicken nuggets, margarine and instant noodles all have in common? Well, they may look tasty, but they’re loaded with sugar, salt, fat and chemicals that strip away their nutritional value. That’s due to the heavy processing that goes into making them, which sees them completely transformed from the original raw ingredients.
And they’re increasingly ever present on our shelves and in our stomachs. In 2022, the National Institute for Health and Care Research found that ultra-processed foods made up almost two-thirds of Britain’s school meals. Furthermore, the British Medical Journal has reported that ultra-processed foods account for 56.8% of total energy intake in the UK diet.
Can you identify them by looking at the ingredient lists on product packaging? What’s the difference between processed foods and ultra-processed foods? Why should we limit the consumption of ultra-processed products? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What's the best way to choose my toothpaste?
What are the dangers of hustle culture?
What is the Mandela Effect?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 11/06/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/9/2023 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
What causes tocophobia, the fear of pregnancy and childbirth?
According to the NHS, approximately 1,600 babies are born every day in the United Kingdom. But what often goes unspoken are the nine months leading up to this event—the periods of anxiety, doubt, and self-discovery that mothers inevitably experience.
A study published in Evolution, Medicine & Public Health journal in April 2023, found that 62% of women grapple with a panic-inducing fear of pregnancy and childbirth. Psychologists refer to this phenomenon as tocophobia.
So, where does tocophobia come from? What are its symptoms then? And how can a woman overcome it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How did flat Earth conspiracy theory start?
Is it a good idea to sleep with my pet?
What's the best way to choose my toothpaste?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
How did flat Earth conspiracy theory start?
Flat Earthers believe that the Earth is not spherical, but rather a flat disc and the Sun and the Moon are also flat discs that circle above the Earth. According to them the edges of the world are surrounded by a wall of ice, which is what we know as Antarctica. And as for the pictures of the Earth from space - they are all fake, part of a huge conspiracy to hide the truth.
The earliest cultures that believed in a flat Earth were the ancient Egyptians, Babylonians, and Greeks. They had different models that depicted the Earth as a flat surface, often supported by pillars or resting on a giant animal. But not all ancient Greeks shared this belief.
Why have people started believing in this again? And why do some people still believe in the flat Earth theory despite all the evidence that contradicts it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What's the best way to choose my toothpaste?
What are the dangers of hustle culture?
What is the Mandela Effect?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/7/2023 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
Is it a good idea to sleep with my pet?
If you have ever slept with a cat or a dog, you know how cozy it can be. Whether they are at the foot of the bed or on the duvet, pets can make you feel safe and comforted like a plush toy.
According to the UK Pet Food Manufacturers Association, 62% of households in the country own a pet, including 13 million dogs and 12 million cats. But are there health risks when you share your bed with a furry friend? Studies have different opinions on the matter. Let’s investigate.
What evidence is there on the subject ? What about hygiene ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What's the best way to choose my toothpaste?
What are the dangers of hustle culture?
What is the Mandela Effect?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 18/06/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
What are the dangers of hustle culture?
"There are way easier places to work, but nobody ever changed the world on 40 hours a week." That’s exactly what Elon Musk tweeted in November 2018, as part of a call for new talent to join his companies. The post went viral, leading to a lot of people critiquing Musk's take on work and merit. Despite the criticism he faced, a lot of people, and followers of hustle culture in particular, stood firmly behind him.
Hustle culture essentially glorifies putting in excessive effort at work, often at the expense of health and personal relationships. In this mindset, our identity becomes intertwined with our work role, with work being seen not as a means to a comfortable life but as an end in itself.
When did the trend of hustle culture really kick off? Is there a shift happening? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I avoid falling victim to roaching?
What are the dangers with being overly perfectionist?
What is the Mandela Effect?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
What's the best way to choose my toothpaste?
Choosing the right toothpaste can be a bit of a challenge, either because there's a plethora of options or because you might have specific requirements. It's not always clear what these products contain, whether it's advisable to steer clear of certain toothpaste, or if the organic versions are just as effective.
The main goal is to tackle dental plaque before it turns into tartar, preventing issues like cavities, bad breath, and bacterial infections. According to tooth-doctor.com, a crucial factor for toothpaste effectiveness is the fluoride content. This trace element strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities, with the recommended concentration varying based on age and individual cavity risk. The NHS suggests that “toothpastes containing 1,350 to 1,500 parts per million fluoride are the most effective” for adults and children over 7.
What's in toothpaste? So, what should one go for? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Mandela Effect?
What are the dangers with being overly perfectionist?
How can I avoid falling victim to roaching?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What is the Mandela Effect?
The Mandela Effect is a phenomenon in which a large number of people share a false memory of something that never happened or happened differently from reality. The term was coined by Fiona Broome, a paranormal researcher, who discovered that she and many others had a vivid memory of Nelson Mandela dying in prison in the 1980s, when he actually died in 2013, after serving as the president of South Africa.
But Mandela’s death is not the only example of this collective misremembering. There are many other cases of the Mandela Effect, especially involving pop culture, such as movies, books, TV shows, and brands. For instance, do you remember the famous line from Star Wars, “Luke, I am your father”? Well, that’s not what Darth Vader actually said.
What causes the Mandela Effect? And what are some of the paranormal explanations? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I avoid falling victim to roaching?
How can my partner and I get better sleep together?
Why are Christmas adverts so moving?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
What are the dangers with being overly perfectionist?
Perfectionism is the tendency to set excessively high and unrealistic standards for oneself and others, and to evaluate one’s worth based on the ability to meet those standards. Perfectionists are not satisfied with anything less than flawless results, and they often fear failure, criticism, or disappointment but constantly striving for perfection can have serious consequences.
You might think that being a perfectionist would make you more productive, but the opposite is true. If you’re always aiming for flawless results, you tend to spend more time on tasks than necessary, or even avoid starting them altogether for fear of failure, meaning you end up procrastinating and delaying. A good example is given here by Dr Andrea Brandt in Psychology today: “I’d like to write a novel” is a fantastic goal, whereas “I must finish a novel by the end of the year” is a perfectionist goal”. Perfectionists also have trouble delegating or collaborating with others, because they don’t trust people to meet their high expectations. This can lead to missed deadlines, wasted resources, and poor performance.
How does perfectionism impact you? How does perfectionism impact your relationships? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I avoid falling victim to roaching?
How can my partner and I get better sleep together?
Why are Christmas adverts so moving?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 20/07/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
How can I avoid falling victim to roaching?
You've been seeing someone for a few weeks now. The romantic dinners, cozy nights at each other's places, and sweet morning or evening texts have been giving you those butterfly feelings. It's shaping up to be the start of something beautiful.
But then, out of the blue, your date drops a bomb during a conversation, mentioning a Tinder match or a date with someone else in town. It catches you off guard, and you realise you've fallen prey to what's known as roaching.
So, what's the deal? Why the reference to cockroaches? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do our bellies get fatter as we get older?
What is the butterfly effect and how does it affect our lives?
Why is there such a taboo over the prostate?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
How can my partner and I get better sleep together?
If your partner is constantly snoring, hogging the blanket, or tossing and turning every five minutes, and you're finding it increasingly challenging to share a bed, know that you're not alone. A 2017 study revealed that while 50% of those surveyed claim to sleep as a couple, 41% prefer solo slumber, and 54% feel sleep-deprived.
There are some tricks to make co-sleeping more manageable. First off, it's crucial to pick the right bed. Mattresses now come in a much wider range of sizes than before. The bigger the bed, the more comfortable you'll both be. A 2012 study by the Bedding Association found that couples switching to 160 by 200 cm beds experienced a 15% increase in sleep time. For partners who move a lot during the night, twin beds could be a solution - two single beds pushed together allow for personal space while sharing a room. That will significantly help preserve your sleep if your partner tends to have restless sleep.
And what if my other half is a blanket thief? Now, what if your partner has nightmares or shouts in their sleep? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do our bellies get fatter as we get older?
What is the butterfly effect and how does it affect our lives?
Why is there such a taboo over the prostate?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/4/2023 • 3 minutes, 35 seconds
Why are Christmas adverts so moving?
John Lewis has released its annual Christmas advert; entitled ‘The Beginner.’ It follows the progress of a middle aged man as he slowly, painfully and determinedly learns how to skateboard.
The montage ends by revealing that he is doing all this to make his foster daughter feel welcome when she comes to stay with them for Christmas. It's touching and, for all but the most cold hearted, brings a tear to the eye. You might expect a company to release an advert at Christmas to promote their products. However, research conducted by Princeton University shows that stories are easier to remember than facts so an advert that tells a story is much more likely to be more memorable.
Why is John Lewis appealing to our hearts? What are some famous Christmas ads? What makes a successful Christmas advert? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How to exercise safely when the weather is cold?
How can I take part in Giving Tuesday?
Why do people R-bomb in the dating world?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Date de première diffusion : 1 décembre 2022
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12/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
What was the impact of the Angelina Jolie effect on women's health?
In 2013, American actress Angelina Jolie made headlines by revealing in the New York Times that she had undergone a preventive double mastectomy to reduce her risk of cancer. The procedure consists of removing both breasts and Jolie explained that a genetic test had shown she carried a mutation in the BRCA1 gene, significantly raising her chances of developing breast or ovarian cancer.
A decade later, her decision had a ripple effect, inspiring many women to undergo similar genetic testing, creating what's now known as the "Angelina Jolie Effect." Despite that though, some doctors are still skeptical about the need for widespread testing.
What is the BRCA1 gene then? But why the doubts among doctors regarding these tests? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do our bellies get fatter as we get older?
What is the butterfly effect and how does it affect our lives?
Why is there such a taboo over the prostate?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
How to buy second hand gifts?
November is synonymous with Black Friday, great deals but what cost? Over consumption is endangering our already fragile planet. Is it time to change our ways? This week Do You Really Know is highlighting concepts and initiatives about reducing our consumption.
‘Tis the season to spend, spend, spend! In the lead up to Christmas we are bombarded with adverts trying to make us buy but this year might be time to try a new approach and buy something that is new, well at least to you. Gifting second-hand, or as it is increasingly being termed, ‘pre-loved’ goods was once looked down upon but with the planet drawing in waste it offers an interesting solution and can help mitigate the £42m worth of unwanted Christmas gifts that go into landfill each year.
But how do you find the perfect second-hand gift? What do I need to look out for when buying second hand? What if I don’t have the time to go second hand shopping? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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How to exercise safely when the weather is cold?
How can I take part in Giving Tuesday?
Why do people R-bomb in the dating world?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Date de première diffusion : 24 novembre 2022
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12/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
Why do our bellies get fatter as we get older?
As the years go by, those extra inches around the abdomen tend to sneak up on us, and that’s especially true once we hit our fifties. One major player is hormonal shifts. For women, the onset of menopause often brings about weight gain and a burgeoning belly, thanks to a decline in estrogen levels that prompts the body to store fat in the midsection.
And fellas, you're not off the hook either—ageing comes with its own hormonal downturn. A drop in testosterone can lead to an uptick in visceral fat. With time, our bodies are no longer the calorie-burning powerhouses they once were, particularly at rest. Past the age of fifty, the body’s muscles start to shrink, causing a dip in baseline metabolism, which is the ability to burn calories.
Does our metabolism changes with age? And how can you fend off that belly bulge? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the butterfly effect and how does it affect our lives?
Why is there such a taboo over the prostate?
How can I know if my partner is micro-cheating on me?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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12/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
What is the butterfly effect and how does it affect our lives?
The butterfly effect is the idea that a small change in one part of the world can have huge consequences in another. It is often used as a metaphor for how our actions can shape the future in unpredictable ways.
The term was coined by the American mathematician and meteorologist Edward Lorenz, who was studying the behavior of weather systems. He discovered that even tiny variations in the initial conditions of a weather model could lead to vastly different outcomes over time. He illustrated this with the example of a butterfly flapping its wings in Brazil and causing a tornado in Texas.
What kind of systems exhibit the butterfly effect? What does the butterfly effect mean for us? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I know if my partner is micro-cheating on me?
What explains the rise of birth tourism?
How to exercise safely when the weather is cold?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/30/2023 • 4 minutes
Why is there such a taboo over the prostate?
The prostate is a male organ that's situated right above the bladder, in front of the rectum. It's a small gland the size of a chestnut that plays a fundamental role in the reproductive system. It produces the protastic fluids that ensure the maturation and survival of sperm.
The prostate is also an incredibly erogenous zone, though it's not often explored amongst heterosexual men. Psychoanalyst and sex therapist Alain Héril for Slate said that: "The simulation of this gland over the course of a prostatic massage provokes a very particular pleasure. This massage can be done using hands or specific sextoys. The prospate is also a very fragile organ, so it's important to get it check - especially as you get older.
Why is it important to get my prostate checked? How can I avoid prostate cancer? How can I take care of this organ on the daily? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How to exercise safely when the weather is cold?
How can I take part in Giving Tuesday?
Why do people R-bomb in the dating world?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Date de première diffusion : 28 novembre 2022
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11/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
How can I know if my partner is micro-cheating on me?
When it comes to what counts as being unfaithful in a relationship, everyone has their own definition. Some might say that only physical contact with another person is cheating, whereas others will argue that even a mildly flirtatious conversation is unacceptable. That's where the concept of micro-cheating comes into play.
Micro cheating refers to seemingly minor actions that suggest a person is emotionally or physically invested in someone outside of their relationship. Where it gets tricky is that micro cheating can take many different subtle forms, and each person’s definition is likely to vary. Depending on your intentions, it could be giving your number to someone you find attractive for example.
Are there other examples? What are the telltale signs? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How to exercise safely when the weather is cold?
How can I take part in Giving Tuesday?
Why do people R-bomb in the dating world?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/29/2023 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What explains the rise of birth tourism?
When a woman is heavily pregnant, holiday or travel plans don't typically top the priority list. After all, flying isn't generally recommended during the latter stages of pregnancy. But that hasn’t stopped the trend of birth tourism from developing.
The basic idea is for a mother to give birth in a country different to where they live, essentially so that her child gets dual nationality. That may in turn lead to the parents also obtaining citizenship for the country.where their child is born. Over on Tiktok, the #birthtourism hashtag has already obtained over 19 million views.
Does that work in every country? What are the downsides? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How to exercise safely when the weather is cold?
How can I take part in Giving Tuesday?
Why do people R-bomb in the dating world?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/29/2023 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
How to exercise safely when the weather is cold?
Many people tend to exercise less during the colder months, preferring to stay indoors and avoid the chilly weather. But doing exercise in winter is a good idea for lots of reasons so don’t let the cold put you off.
Exercising in cold weather can offer many advantages for your physical and mental health. For example, according to a study published in March 2023 in BMC Public Health, winter workouts can improve your endurance, as your heart doesn’t have to work as hard, you sweat less, and expend less energy. Winter exercise can also help you burn more calories, as your body has to generate more heat to keep warm.
What are the other benefits of doing exercise when it is cold? And what about the risks? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do people R-bomb in the dating world?
Are budget food brands really worth the savings they offer?
How can you save money on your food bill?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
How can I take part in Giving Tuesday?
Giving Tuesday is a worldwide initiative which encourages people to do good. The movement was created in the United States in 2012, and has since spread to have a presence in 75 different countries as of 2021. In 2022, like every year, Giving Tuesday is celebrated the Tuesday after Thanksgiving and Black Friday, meaning it falls on 29th November.
A lot of companies and charities match donations to encourage people to give. For example, in 2022, Meta will match up to $7 million in donations made through their platform, as it has done in previous years. Paypal does something similar and indeed matches donations to qualified nonprofits throughout the year, for up to $2500 per person.
Is it all about donating to charity then? What can I do to help? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do people R-bomb in the dating world?
Are budget food brands really worth the savings they offer?
How can you save money on your food bill?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 27/11/2022
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11/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
Why do people R-bomb in the dating world?
We’ve talked about a lot of dating trends on Do You Really Know, many of which are pretty negative. And the subject of today’s episode is no exception. R-bombing might sound pretty dramatic, but in fact it just refers to leaving someone on read when they message you.
You know, those annoying blue ticks you see on whatsapp which tell you your message has been seen. They light up and you expect the other person to start typing back; only they never do? Well if that’s happened to you, then you’ve been R-bombed!
Isn’t that the same as ghosting? Why do people do it then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How do I know if I'm allergic to gluten?
Are gas cookers dangerous?
Why is funflation causing us to spend more on live entertainment?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
Are budget food brands really worth the savings they offer?
How much attention do you pay to prices when doing your grocery shopping? In September 2023, UK consumer watchdog Which published research showing just how much cheaper budget brands can be.
One striking example was the price of rice at Asda. Shoppers could get 1kg of Asda Just Essentials rice for 52 pence, while the store’s standard own-brand Easy Cook Long Grain White Rice was £1.80 for the same quantity. That’s 246% more. And if no Asda store brand products were available, shoppers would be faced with spending £4.85 on a kilo of Ben’s Original Long Grain Rice - a whopping 833% more than the Just Essentials product. Similar cases were found at supermarkets like Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Morrison’s, on staple foods like baked beans, spaghetti and tea bags. The cost of living crisis has seen a lot of people switch to budget food brands in order to save. And an early 2023 survey by Attest found that 70.2% of Brits plan to stick with own-label brands, rather than reverting to premium options.
What counts as a budget food brand? Are the products of good enough quality? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is funflation causing us to spend more on live entertainment?
Are gas cookers dangerous?
How do I know if I'm allergic to gluten?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
How can you save money on your food bill?
The cost of living crisis has seen food prices increase by as much as 65% according to the Office for National Statistics meaning that the average British household spends an extra £600 pounds a year on food.
But considering that there is also about 4.5 million tonnes of food waste annually the possibility of reducing wasted food as well as bills has never been more needed. Reducing your bill at the checkout comes down largely to planning. Getting organised about how, when and where you buy your food as well as how you store and cook it is essential. For starters buying in bulk can really reduce costs.
How can I reduce the amount I spend on food? How can I reduce my food waste? How can technology help? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is a transference in psychiatry?
Does cold weather really make us sick?
How to save money on your heating bill this winter?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 08/12/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
Why shouldn't we use the snooze function on our alarm clock?
We all know the feeling of not wanting to get out of bed first thing in the morning. It can be tempting to press the "snooze" button on your alarm clock to grab a few extra minutes of sleep. And research has shown that it’s a very common habit. In October 2022, results from a University of Notre Dame study on the subject were published in Sleep journal.
The study found that 57% of people snooze, with certain groups of people being more likely to do so than others. For example, the younger a study participant was, the more likely they were to snooze. Women were also more commonly snoozers than men. The thing is, neuroscientists say that snoozing isn’t actually the bright idea that it might seem. While the temporary respite is pleasant at the time, there are other health-related reasons for not snoozing.
Why is that then? Does going back to sleep restart the sleep cycle? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Are gas cookers dangerous?
How do I know if I'm allergic to gluten?
Are men really more sensitive to pain than women?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
What are warming stripes?
If you’ve been to a climate demonstration in recent times, you may have noticed placards with a series of blue and red coloured stripes. Kind of like a barcode but in colour, with the shades varying from very light to very dark. You may have even seen them at political or sporting events, in the media, or on the cover of Greta Thunberg’s The Climate Book.
This set of graphics are known as warming stripes, and they’re not as random as they might first seem. Indeed, the coloured stripes have become a go-to symbol for many climate activists, given that they feature no letters and no numbers, meaning anyone anywhere in the world can understand their meaning.
What is the meaning? And how can such a simple graphic get across the complexity of climate change? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How is AI giving a voice to the dead?
Why is climbing stairs so good for you?
Am I in a situationship?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 14/01/2023
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11/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
Why is funflation causing us to spend more on live entertainment?
If you’re a fan of Taylor Swift, it won’t have escaped your notice that the singer was back on tour this year across the United States. And what a tour it was! Fans were desperate to attend, and prepared to pay from $49 to $499 for the privilege, according to face value ticket prices quoted by Stylecaster.com. Meanwhile, resale ticket prices were in the thousands.
If that seems a lot, then you should bear in mind that the cost of live entertainment has been rising due to what’s known as funflation. It’s a mix of “fun” and “inflation”, and economists say it’s caused by a growing demand for events like Taylor Swift concerts or live sports.
How are people able to afford this extra spending? Does the same go for other days out, apart from concerts? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Are gas cookers dangerous?
How do I know if I'm allergic to gluten?
Are men really more sensitive to pain than women?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
Are gas cookers dangerous?
Gas cookers are a common feature in many kitchens, often preferred by chefs and home cooks for their precise temperature control but gas cookers emit a number of harmful substances when they are in use and even when they are off that can pollute the indoor air and harm your health.
Nitrogen dioxide, or NO2, is a gas that is produced when natural gas is burned at high temperatures. It can damage your airways and worsen asthma and COPD. A recent report by the Dutch Lung Foundation found that gas cookers increased the risk of asthma in children by 42%.
What are some other of these pollutants and their effects? And what can you do to reduce these risks? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Is there any truth that lemon water is good for you ?
Why do we get great ideas in the shower?
Should I cut the electricity at home during a storm?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
How do I know if I'm allergic to gluten?
In recent years, gluten-free diets have become more and more popular. No doubt you’ve seen “Free From” aisles in your local supermarket, and you can also get gluten-free items in health food shops or online.
Some people have no choice but to adopt such a diet, because they have coeliac disease, a lifelong autoimmune condition which causes their body to attack its own tissue when gluten is consumed. According to Coeliac UK, the condition affects just 1% of the population. However, there have been claims that going gluten-free has benefits like weight loss, increased energy and improved overall health, but there’s little in the way of research to back all that up.
So, what is it about gluten that causes health problems ? Which foods contain gluten ? How can you tell if you really have Coeliac disease ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How is AI giving a voice to the dead?
Why is climbing stairs so good for you?
Am I in a situationship?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 29/04/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
How has the slomadism trend taken off since Covid?
According to an August 2023 report by human resources company MBO Partners, the number of Americans considering themselves digital nomads increased by 131% between 2019 and 2022. That means they can travel worldwide while staying connected to their work wherever they are.
The Covid-19 pandemic led to remote work being normalised, when it had already been growing thanks to factors like globalisation and the digitisation of work. However, some digital nomad workers are now tired of being on the move all year around. As a result, many have chosen to adapt their lifestyle accordingly, turning to "slomadism."
What’s the difference between digital nomads and slomads? Is the lifestyle financially beneficial for slomads too? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How is AI giving a voice to the dead?
Why is climbing stairs so good for you?
Am I in a situationship?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/22/2023 • 5 minutes, 23 seconds
Are men really more sensitive to pain than women?
When it comes to health, it’s clear that gender differences play a significant role. It's now recognized that the occurrence of diseases, their onset age, symptoms, severity, and even responses to medications differ between men and women.
The question of whether men and women perceive pain differently has been a topic of scientific discourse for quite some time. It’s an important matter too, as it could influence whether treatments should be tailored based on gender. For now, current studies haven't been able to definitively settle the debate.
Is there anything we do know for sure already? Are there other theories out there on gender-based pain perception? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Is there any truth that lemon water is good for you ?
Why do we get great ideas in the shower?
Should I cut the electricity at home during a storm?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
Is there any truth that lemon water is good for you ?
Lemon water is a popular drink that many celebrities and wellness gurus swear by. But is it really as good as they claim? Or is it just another fad that has no scientific basis?
Lemon water has been linked to several health benefits, such as hydration. Drinking enough water is essential for your overall health, as it helps prevent dehydration, which can cause fatigue, headaches, dry skin, and constipation. Also lemon’s contain vitamin C which is an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from free radicals, which are molecules that can cause inflammation and disease.
Are there any other benefits? And what are the myths about lemon water? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Should I cut the electricity at home during a storm?
Could the PAUSE method help me make better decisions?
Why has far-right terrorism increased so much?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
Why do we get great ideas in the shower?
Have you ever noticed that you tend to have your best ideas in the shower? If so, you’re not alone! A 2014 study conducted by cognitive psychologist Scott Barry Kaufman found that 72% of people get creative ideas while showering. So it’s really not a coincidence.
Science has shown that taking a shower is actually a perfect combination of a few factors which allow for optimal creativity. Struggling to solve a particularly complicated problem at work or in your studies? Need to come up with the perfect Christmas gift idea, or plan an event? Try jumping in the shower; you’d be surprised how often it’s more effective than continuing to grind away or hoping for a flash of inspiration.
How can taking a shower boost creativity? Do hormones have anything to do with it? Does this state of mind have a name? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Should I cut the electricity at home during a storm?
Could the PAUSE method help me make better decisions?
Why has far-right terrorism increased so much?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 04/12/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
Should I cut the electricity at home during a storm?
As thunderclouds gather and winds intensify, the decision to shut off the power becomes a critical one, balancing safety concerns with the practicalities of daily life. The risks associated with electrical installations depend on the location of your home. For example, the consequences are more severe if your home is in a rural or mountainous area, for a number of reasons.
Lightning poses a significant risk to electrical systems, and power surges can damage appliances and electronics. By cutting the electricity, you reduce the chances of electrical fires and protect your devices from potential damage.
Are there any drawbacks? Is cutting the power the only option? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How is AI giving a voice to the dead?
Why is climbing stairs so good for you?
Am I in a situationship?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/20/2023 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
Could the PAUSE method help me make better decisions?
Are you someone who thrives on making decisions at work, or do you prefer to take a back seat and let others have the final say? Decisions can be a source of anxiety, even for those who generally like making them. That's especially true when the sheer quantity of decisions to be made adds up, and you've got a limited amount of time in which to make them. That happens frequently to people working in a high-pressure role or environment.
This is down to a phenomenon known as decision fatigue, which we've talked about in the past on Do You Really Know. It's easy to get weighed down in such scenarios, but thankfully there are ways of beating decision fatigue and making effective decisions without getting burned out. One such example is the PAUSE method.
Who came up with that? What do the other steps consist of in concrete terms? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Which foods are best for burning fat?
Am I in a situationship?
Why is climbing stairs so good for you?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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11/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
Why has far-right terrorism increased so much?
In early December 2022, German authorities carried out a sting operation on the neo-Nazi Reichsburger group that was plotting to overthrow the country’s government through a coup. It was one of Germany’s biggest ever counterterror operations, seeing 3000 police officers make 300 raids across 11 regions of the country, and led to a total of 25 arrests.
The so-called Citizens of the Reich are just one example of a dangerous threat that is becoming more and more widespread in the West: that of violent far-right terrorism. 2019 saw the Christchurch mosque attack in New Zealand, which killed 51 people, and a school shooting targeting the majority Latino community of El Paso, Texas. The following year, Germany saw the Hanau shisha bar shootings, and the murder of migrant-friendly MP Walter Lubcke.
What are the aims of right-wing extremists? How has right-wing terrorism changed in recent years? Who tends to radicalise? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How is AI giving a voice to the dead?
Why is climbing stairs so good for you?
Am I in a situationship?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 06/01/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 45 seconds
Do we really use just 10% of our brains?
According to a Michael J Fox Foundation survey from 2013, 65% of Americans believe that ushumans use just 10% of our brains. That’s not really a surprise when you consider that the 10% figure has been quoted a lot over the years.
Medical News Today says that it was referenced in 1936 by American writer Dale Carnegie in his book How to Win Friends and Influence People. Since then, it's been repeated over and over in newspaper articles, TV programs and films. One example is Luc Besson’s 2014 sci-fi action film Lucy, in which the character Professor Norman, played by Morgan Freeman, states: “It is estimated most humans use only 10% of their brain capacity.”
Where does the idea come from then? Are you saying we actually use all of our brains then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How is AI giving a voice to the dead?
Why is climbing stairs so good for you?
Am I in a situationship?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 55 seconds
How can I save money when using electrical appliances?
You might be surprised to learn that how we use our electric devices can make real changes to our energy consumption and our bills. So here are some simple tips to help you change your habits and save on your energy bills.
Many appliances use energy even when they are on standby. Chargers still draw power even if the device is not connected, media players, Phones with displays that show when not in active use, like cordless phones and smart home appliances like refrigerators, washer and dryers that have always-on displays and many more. This energy consumption is often referred to as standby but also other names like phantom load, shadow loads, idle current or even vampire power. So, instead of leaving things you do not need plugged in, or on standby, unplug them. A simple action can make a big difference. and if getting to the plug is tricky consider using a power bar with an off-switch to make it easier. This could save an estimated £65 a year according to the energy savings trust. That might not seem much but multiplied out across a city the size of London, the annual savings exceed £580 million.
What if I need to leave things on standby? How can I save money by changing the way I use appliances? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is a transference in psychiatry?
Does cold weather really make us sick?
How to save money on your heating bill this winter?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 05/01/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
How is AI giving a voice to the dead?
Have you ever seen the Black Mirror episode called "Be right back"? It aired back in February 2013 and sees a character called Ash die in a car accident, leaving behind his pregnant wife Martha. During Ash's funeral, Martha’s friend Sarah tells her about a company which creates AI versions of dead people, by using personal data they had shared online. Initially reluctant, Martha eventually caves in and tries the service. As a result, she’s able to chat with an Android Ash as if he was alive.
Now, Black Mirror is well known for delving into possible future technological developments, which are sometimes purely the stuff of fantasy. But the scenario portrayed in that particular episode may become widespread in the near future.
Are we saying this may actually be possible then? Do businesses see a lot of potential in deadbots? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is climbing stairs so good for you?
Am I in a situationship?
Which foods are best for burning fat?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/17/2023 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
Why is climbing stairs so good for you?
You might try to avoid them whenever you can, opting for the lift or the escalator instead. But did you know that stairs can actually super-charge your fitness in seconds? In fact, climbing stairs has so many benefits for your health and well-being that you might want to rethink your attitude towards them.
Climbing stairs is a vigorous-intensity physical activity that increases your heart rate and oxygen consumption. This boosts your cardio-respiratory fitness, which is a measure of how well your heart and lungs can deliver oxygen to your muscles.
What else? And can stair climbing boost my mental health? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is a transference in psychiatry?
Does cold weather really make us sick?
How to save money on your heating bill this winter?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
Am I in a situationship?
Sometimes there’s a very thin line between friendship and love. You spend time with someone, you’ve got things in common, you make each other laugh.Things can easily get blurry. Imagine you’ve recently met someone and really hit it off; you’re at each other’s places all the time, maybe you’ve even kissed once or twice on a night out. Maybe it’s gone further than that.
A Define the Relationship conversation or DTR for short, is a useful, if sometimes awkward chat that many people have when in a blossoming relationship. Without having a DTR, it can be difficult to put a label on it. But one has emerged which might fit the bill. The notion of a “situationship” has become more and more widespread, with the hashtag having recorded over 350 million views on Tiktok for example.
What are the telltale signs? Why are more and more people winding up in situationships? How can I avoid a situationship? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Which foods are best for burning fat?
What is intuitive eating?
Are you a time optimist?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast 08/08/22
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
What is intuitive eating?
An IPSOS study from late 2020 found that 45% of people across the world were trying to lose weight at the time. In many cases, losing weight is beneficial for health, but a lot of the time, people want to achieve unrealistic body images which are projected by the media as being ideal.
Of course, a popular way of doing so is by dieting, but the subject of today’s episode is pretty much the opposite of a traditional diet. Advocates of intuitive eating say that not only are diets not necessarily effective, but they also promote a complex and sometimes unhealthy relationship with food. That’s particularly true when it comes to extreme diets, like the Paleo diet or a juice diet.
Where does the term come from? Isn't it normal to eat when hungry? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is a transference in psychiatry?
Does cold weather really make us sick?
How to save money on your heating bill this winter?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
Which foods are best for burning fat?
It’s common knowledge that autumn often sees people put on weight. But if you’re looking to shed a few pounds, there are some foods you can rely on to boost metabolism and thereby improve calorie burning. That’s because they increase thermogenesis, which is the production of heat in the body. That in turn stimulants our metabolism, forcing the body to use energy from its fat reserves.
There are three main types of fat burning food. Firstly, those which see our bodies burn more calories digesting them than they actually contain. Then you’ve got those which are rich in fibre or protein and therefore make you feel full quickly. Finally there are those which possess active ingredients which boost your metabolism, causing you to burn calories.
What are some examples then? What about other types of food apart from vegetables? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is a transference in psychiatry?
Does cold weather really make us sick?
How to save money on your heating bill this winter?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/15/2023 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
Are you a time optimist?
A time optimist is someone who is overly optimistic about how much time they have to do something, and therefore often ends up being late or missing deadlines. They tend to underestimate how long tasks will take, overestimate how much they can accomplish in a given period, and ignore potential delays or interruptions. They may also have a distorted perception of time, losing track of how fast it passes or how much is left.
Time optimists are not necessarily lazy or irresponsible. They may have good intentions and high ambitions, but they lack realistic planning and prioritisation skills. They may also suffer from procrastination, perfectionism, or fear of failure, which prevent them from starting or finishing tasks on time.
Are there any benefits to being a time optimist? And how can you become more punctual and productive if you are a time optimist? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is a transference in psychiatry?
Does cold weather really make us sick?
How to save money on your heating bill this winter?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
What are the dangers of using nitrous oxide - the laughing gas drug?
Nitrous oxide, which is also known as laughing gas, is sold in metal canisters and is one of the most commonly used drugs by teenagers and young people. However, heavy use can lead to a host of problems.
Prof Alastair Noyce, a consultant neurologist at Queen Mary University of London, told BBC News: "These are young people we are seeing - teenagers and people in their 20s. What's striking now is the severity. We've seen that increase over the last 12 months or so." Nitrous oxide is a gas that can be used for medical purposes, as an anaesthetic, and in the food industry.
Why do people use Nitrous oxide? What are the dangers? What is being done about this? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is a transference in psychiatry?
Does cold weather really make us sick?
How to save money on your heating bill this winter?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 21/03/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
What is a transference in psychiatry?
Have you ever found yourself experiencing emotions like anger, frustration, or even affection towards your therapist? On the surface, it may seem like a surprising thing to happen. After all, you don't know much about their personal life, and there's no obvious reason for having such feelings.
Fear not though; this happens more frequently than you might think; it’s actually pretty common. When you go to see a therapist, you're not a blank slate – you bring along your emotional baggage and it's not unusual to project those emotions onto the person across from you, who’s serving as a mediator. This is known as transference.
Why does it happen? Can the reverse ever happen, with a therapist having feelings toward a patient? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why does cooking benefit our mental health?
What happens to your online life after you die?
How can I limit the effects of sugar on my health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
Does cold weather really make us sick?
"Wrap up warm, or you'll catch a cold!" No doubt you heard that advice a lot as a child, and you may well still hear it as an adult. For a long time, scientists were skeptical about the idea that simply being exposed to the cold could make a person sick. After all, to get sick, you need to actually come into contact with a microbe, like a virus. And cold weather itself isn't a disease.
But recent developments suggest there may actually be some truth to the idea. In December 2022, The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology published a study by a team of American researchers, who had looked into how cold weather affected immunity in the nose. The researchers explained that our nasal mucous membranes, and in particular the extracellular vesicles, act as the first line of defense in our immune system against viral attacks.
What do we know now that we didn’t before? But is the cold the sole culprit? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I limit the effects of sugar on my health?
What happens to your online life after you die?
Why does cooking benefit our mental health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/12/2023 • 3 minutes, 42 seconds
How to save money on your heating bill this winter?
As the cold weather closes in, it's time to put on the heating but there are plenty of ways to efficiently heat your home and save money. 46 percent of people believe it is better to leave the heating on low at all times.
However, according to experts from the Energy saving Trust it is better to only put the heating on when you need it. The reason is that your home is constantly losing heat and if you have the heating on all day you are making greater losses, heat the house when you need it and you will only lose a minimal amount of heat.
How can I reduce heat loss? How else can I keep heat from escaping? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Should I be cleaning my belly button?
What do you get better at with age?
Why has astrology come back into fashion?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 15/12/22
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
What is coffee badging in the workplace?
It doesn’t take a genius to realise that the COVID-19 pandemic changed the relationship many white-collar employees have with work. And that’s particularly true when it comes to remote work; which some of them now see as a non-negotiable. And a lot of other employees have made it clear they don’t want to return to full-time office life.
Nevertheless, many CEOs were keen to get their staff back into the office once the pandemic started to ease. Some companies ended up coming to hybrid arrangements as a kind of compromise. That’s still not enough for some though and it has led to signs of retaliation, in the form of trends like quiet quitting or “act your wage” which we’ve talked about in past episodes of Do You Really Know?. Today, we’re talking about coffee badging specifically, which is a kind of hack employees are using to fulfil office day mandates without actually spending too much time in the office.
What does the “badge” part mean? And is it a positive thing? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why does cooking benefit our mental health?
What happens to your online life after you die?
How can I limit the effects of sugar on my health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/11/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
What is revenge porn?
Revenge porn is the intentional sharing of private sexual content, without the consent of the person in that content. It could be explicit text messages, photos or videos, for example. Revenge porn hasn’t been around forever; it has grown with, and been facilitated by, the internet, smartphones and social media.
The humiliation and harassment that comes with it can cause severe emotional distress. Both adults and minors are at risk, with younger people often unaware of the dangers posed by internet trolls, cyberbullies and vengeful exes. While it is a relatively recent phenomenon, many countries and regions have brought in legislation against revenge porn. That currently includes all but 4 states in America, despite there being no federal law on the matter.
So how can women and men avoid becoming victims of revenge porn? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Should I be cleaning my belly button?
What do you get better at with age?
Why has astrology come back into fashion?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 28/03/20
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/11/2023 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
Why does cooking benefit our mental health?
Cooking is a passion and hobby for a lot of people. They scour Pinterest for hours to pick the best recipe, dice their ingredients finely, let the food cook gently and even reuse leftovers in inventive ways. But for others, cooking is a hassle and a bother. Grocery shopping, the cooking itself and cleaning up all seems like a lot of effort.
But maybe those people don't appreciate how cooking can actually benefit their mental health. In August 2023, Stylist.co.uk ran a feature on the mental health benefits of cooking. They spoke to Bayu Prihandito, a certified psychology advisor and life coach. He explained that when you cook, you enter what’s known as a 'flow state'. That’s basically a mental state where you’re fully engaged in an activity. It gives you a feeling of achievement and helps lower stress.
What kind of benefits are we talking about? What’s the best way to establish a regular cooking routine? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What happens to your online life after you die?
How can I limit the effects of sugar on my health?
What should I do with expired medicines?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/10/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What happens to your online life after you die?
When you die, your physical body may be gone, but your digital legacy lives on. Your digital legacy is everything you leave behind online, such as your social media accounts, emails, photos, videos, documents, and more. These may hold financial or sentimental value for you and your loved ones, but they can also pose some challenges and risks.
While most of us make a will stipulating what we want to happen to our possession, few of us consider how to manage our online presence once we are no longer present. The first step is to make an inventory of your online accounts and assets, write a list that includes the name of your accounts, website, and your username or account ID and be sure to keep it safe.
And what do I do next? Are there any tools to help me? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Should I be cleaning my belly button?
What do you get better at with age?
Why has astrology come back into fashion?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/9/2023 • 4 minutes
How can I limit the effects of sugar on my health?
When we think of those who have high blood sugar, we tend to think of people with diabetes, as they often have to monitor their levels and sometimes undergo insulin treatment. But actually everybody can have blood sugar spikes, and many of us do without even realising. These occur when a simple sugar called glucose builds up in the blood. This is known as hyperglycemia.
High blood sugar can make your mouth dry, make you feel thirsty, give you blurred vision and make you need to pee often. Overconsumption, particularly of added sugar, can lead to a calorie surplus, and therefore result in weight gain. Being overweight can in turn lead to other health issues, like heart disease and other problems. Consuming too much sugar can also damage your teeth.
Do I need to be cutting sugar out of my diet completely then? What can I do about it then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Should I be cleaning my belly button?
What do you get better at with age?
Why has astrology come back into fashion?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 31/08/22
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
Could the 42% rule help me have a better work-life balance?
More and more people across the world are struggling with burnout. According to a Future Forum survey of over 10,000 workers from February 2023, as many as 42% of workers experience it, an all-time high. When signs of exhaustion emerge, the ideal solution is, of course, total rest, but it's often a luxury that few can afford. An alternative for preventing burnout is what's known as the "42% rule."
The rule was introduced in 2019 in a book authored by two identical twins from the USA: Amelia and Emily Nagoski. The book was entitled "Burnout: The secret to solving the stress cycle" and it was based on the sisters' personal experiences.
How does it work? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What makes someone a cat person?
What is an endemic?
Why are more and more people paying to find love?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What should I do with expired medicines?
How many times have you come across expired pills in your medicine cabinet and wondered whether they we still safe to use? It’s pretty common, and often we consider using the medicine anyway, because we don’t have a prescription to get more, for example, or simply don’t want to waste what we already have.
In early 2022, Censuswide conducted a survey on behalf of online pharmacist Chemist4U. It found that 36% of the UK residents surveyed said they had taken expired medicine in the past. That goes against official advice found on the NHS website though, which reads: “Medicines have expiry dates so you know when to use them by. After the expiry date medicines may not be safe or as effective.”
Is safety compromised more for some types of medicine than others? What's the best way to store medicines to preserve their active ingredients? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What makes someone a cat person?
What is an endemic?
Why are more and more people paying to find love?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/8/2023 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
What makes someone a cat person?
People often refer to themselves as cat person or dog person, as well as meaning that they prefer this animal to the other, it implies that they identify with certain characteristics associated with their preferred pet, dogs are loyal, cats are smart, dogs can be trained to help people, cats cannot and so on.
The social psychologist Samuel D Gosling of the University of Texas studied the personality traits of so-called “dog people” and “cat people”. He found that cat people tend to score higher on neuroticism and openness to experiences, whereas dog people are more extroverted, agreeable and conscientious. Cat people tend to also be more sensitive, creative and curious, but more prone to anxiety and stress. Whereas dog people, on the other hand, are more sociable, cooperative and reliable, but also more conventional and conformist.
But why do these personality traits match with our preference for cats or dogs? And what else makes someone a cat person? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why are more and more people paying to find love?
Should I start my Christmas shopping in autumn?
What is a power nap?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
What is an endemic?
An infection becomes endemic in a population when it is constantly maintained at a baseline level. That happens when the circulation of the virus is taken under control and therefore becomes easier to monitor. A disease may be endemic in some areas and not in others, as in the case of malaria, for example.
Other endemic diseases reappear in waves in certain seasons, as the flu does in winter. Covid-19 for example will likely return in waves. We have already developed effective vaccines against severe forms, and those will have to be adapted to new variants as is the case with the flu. At some point, new treatments will likely be developed, enabling Covid-19 patients to receive care similar to that administered in the case of other respiratory viral infections.
So Covid-19 will become a disease like any other? Is it really wise to drop restrictions so quickly? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Should I be cleaning my belly button?
What do you get better at with age?
Why has astrology come back into fashion?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 28/02/22
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
Why are more and more people paying to find love?
According to a 2019 report from eharmony, a third of relationships had started online between 2015 and 2019, compared to just 19% in the preceding decade. The so-called “Future of Dating” also suggested that by the year, more than half of relationships will have begun online.
Whether you're seeking a serious relationship or just a casual fling, there's something out there for everyone. As with any constantly evolving market, dating apps have turned into a real business, and the quest for love can come with a hefty price tag. In September 2023, Tinder introduced a new invite-only service called Tinder Select, and brace yourself – it costs £4925 per year.
But why pay, you might wonder? And can you still use these apps for free? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why has astrology come back into fashion?
What do you get better at with age?
Should I be cleaning my belly button?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
Should I start my Christmas shopping in autumn?
You've probably noticed that as soon as the back-to-school season ends, stores start filling their shelves with chocolates, garlands, and Advent calendars. For many of us, it feels like an early jump into the holiday spirit, even before we've figured out our Christmas plans.
But beyond the sometimes overly eager marketing by big retailers, there might be some wisdom in getting a head start on your end-of-year shopping. And a recent report from John Lewis revealed that a fifth of people in the UK are set to begin their Christmas planning in November this year.
Why is that then? And what about the holiday feast? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Should I be cleaning my belly button?
What do you get better at with age?
Why has astrology come back into fashion?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/5/2023 • 3 minutes, 57 seconds
What is a power nap?
A power nap is a short sleep which is long enough to give an energy boost, but not so long that you enter deep sleep. The term was coined by American social psychologist James Maas, a professor at Cornell University. Science shows that power naps could be of benefit to employees in the workplace, where efficiency is key.
Sometimes, a power nap lasts just a few seconds, in which case it’s referred to as a microsleep. Dali would do it in a seated position, holding a spoon between his fingers. When he started to fall asleep, his grip on the spoon would loosen and the sound of the spoon hitting the floor would of course wake him up immediately.
So I can just fall asleep at my desk and my boss will be OK about it? Will I become smarter if I have a power nap every day after my lunch break? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Should I be cleaning my belly button?
What do you get better at with age?
Why has astrology come back into fashion?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 16/03/20
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
Will the meat of the future be printed in 3D?
Climatologists and medical experts are in agreement about the detrimental impact of excessive meat consumption on both our environment and health. Industrial livestock farming is responsible for a significant 15% of global CO2 emissions, and it also raises ethical concerns regarding animal welfare. In light of these concerns, it recently emerged that UK meat consumption is at its lowest level since record begun.
Government data showed that in 2022, people ate an average of 854g of meat per week, which is down 14% compared to a decade ago. For those cutting down on meat or giving it up completely, alternatives like legumes can provide similar nutrients. But completely changing one's dietary habits and cooking style can be daunting. One new solution on the horizon is 3D-printed meat, both in plant-based and animal-based form.
How exactly do you print meat? Is it actually a healthier option then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What do you get better at with age?
Why has astrology come back into fashion?
Are our phones really eavesdropping on us?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/4/2023 • 5 minutes, 10 seconds
What are the warning signs of depression?
In any given week in England, 3 in 100 people are suffering from depression, according to a NatCen Social Research study published in 2014. Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age or social class.
Everybody experiences different moods. You might find yourself feeling happy during the day, sad at times, or even just okay. Those with mood disorders experience these same emotions, but for longer periods of time and with higher intensity, to the extent that it can affect their daily lives. Depression is an example of a mood disorder.
What’s the difference between feeling down and being depressed? What causes depression? Are there other symptoms? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Should I be cleaning my belly button?
What do you get better at with age?
Why has astrology come back into fashion?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 15/10/22
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
Should I be cleaning my belly button?
We talked about omplaphobia in a recent episode of Do You Really Know, which is the fear of belly buttons. Well the subject of today’s episode may make for awkward listening for anyone affected by that phobia. That’s right; we’re talking about belly buttons again.
Now, be honest: when was the last time you washed your belly button in the shower? It’s commonly overlooked, but surprisingly it’s actually one of the dirtiest parts of the human body. That’s because it accumulates dead skin cells, clothing fibers, soap residue, and sweat, making it a haven for bacteria. In fact, it hosts more than sixty different species of fungi, yeasts, and bacteria!
How does the belly button form? Why does my belly button sometimes smell bad? Do I need to use lotion? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What do you get better at with age?
Why has astrology come back into fashion?
Are our phones really eavesdropping on us?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
What do you get better at with age?
You might think that ageing is all about decline and deterioration, but that’s not the whole story. In fact, there are many aspects of life that improve as we grow older, such as happiness, wisdom, relationships, and even some cognitive skills. “Our societal narrative is not based on science – it’s based entirely on prejudice.
Contrary to popular myth, we never stop learning or growing new brain connections.” says Daniel Levitin, professor of neuroscience at McGill University, who sought to challenge people's ideas on ageing in his book ‘The Changing Mind’.
What are some of the things that get better in your 40s? And later in life? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is chromophobia?
Why do we enjoy being scared?
What are the UK’s most haunted places to visit?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
Why has astrology come back into fashion?
Have you noticed more of your friends talking about their star signs of late? Maybe they try to guess the sign of people they meet, or come out with unexpected references to “Mercury in retrograde” or “Saturn return” over dinner. Maybe you’re into it yourself; and you have an app which sends you horoscope notifications all day long.
It wasn’t so long ago that most people would just read horoscopes in the paper for a laugh, but these days astrology seems to be all the rage. Dedicated webpages are getting more and more traffic, and there are even astrology based dating apps, like Ilios and Stars Align. Analysing human behaviour according to star and planet positions has existed for millenia across different civilisations, like the Mayas for example.
Are we saying astrology has never been this popular before? What’s caused the resurgence then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the UK’s most haunted places to visit?
Why do we enjoy being scared?
What is chromophobia?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 31/12/22
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
Are our phones really eavesdropping on us?
Have you ever had the eerie feeling that you’re being spied on by your smartphone? You know: you're having dinner with a friend, chatting about how your aging computer is on its last legs, struggling with an old battery and making work a hassle. You’ve decided it’s time to replace it by getting a new one. Lo and behold, the next day, while casually surfing the internet, you're bombarded with ads for shiny new computers, even though you never actually searched for them online.
No need to worry, you're not under surveillance by FBI agents. Apple did admit a few years back that it was listening to iPhone users, but only after the voice assistant was activated. According to American cybersecurity expert Daniel Markuson: "Applications installed on your smartphone are eavesdropping on background noise, including conversations, to collect more information about you. Later on, the data gathered is shared with other devices."
But is it just Apple that's doing this? And why would they do this? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the UK’s most haunted places to visit?
Why do we enjoy being scared?
What is chromophobia?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
Is it best sleeping in total darkness?
Almost all kids are afraid of the dark, and sometimes that fear even lingers into adulthood. It's a shame really because, contrary to what you might think, darkness is actually not our enemy but a friend when it comes to drifting off to dreamland.
Being exposed to light at night can have negative consequences on person’s health in the long-term. That’s according to a study by researchers at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine in the United States. They published their findings in 2022, having discovered a correlation between exposure to light while sleeping and conditions like obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes.
What's the link between light and disease? How can I ensure I’m not at risk from light exposure at night? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is chromophobia?
Why do we jump when we get scared?
Why does not getting enough sleep make you selfish?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
What are the UK’s most haunted places to visit?
Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, you can’t deny that there’s something intriguing about the paranormal. And the UK has plenty of spooky spots to choose from, with a long and bloody history of wars, executions, murders and mysteries. So grab your flashlight and your courage, and join me as we discover some of the most haunted places in the UK.
Let’s start with one of the most famous haunted locations in London: the Tower of London. This ancient fortress has been the scene of many gruesome events, from beheadings and torture to imprisonment and fire.
Where are some places in England? And what about Scotland? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is chromophobia?
Why do we jump when we get scared?
Why does not getting enough sleep make you selfish?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/31/2023 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
Why do we enjoy being scared?
Ghost stories told around a camp fire, visiting a haunted house or watching a scary film are all common Halloween activities. We clearly enjoy scaring each-other and feeling scared, even though it seems completely counter intuitive. There are a number of reasons for this, which we'll explore in the episode.
Fear is an emotional response to danger, both real or perceived. Our body releases a mixture of adrenaline and cortisol and triggers our ‘fight, flight or freeze’ response. It makes us more alert, speeds up our heart rate and increases our blood pressure. We breathe faster, delivering more oxygen to the brain, and our glucose levels spike, giving us an energy boost so we are ready to act or react.
How does fear affect us physically? Is feeling relief the only reason we like to feel scared? Can you have too much of a good thing? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is chromophobia?
Why do we jump when we get scared?
Why does not getting enough sleep make you selfish?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 27/10/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/31/2023 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
What is chromophobia?
Chromophobia is a term with Greek origins, referring to the fear of colours. Initially, it was a concept used in biology to describe cells unresponsive to colour, commonly employed in medical examinations. Over time, its use expanded into psychology, particularly in the context of the rejection and fear associated with specific colours.
A pathological aversion to colours, or a particular colour, is relatively rare. The fear is often driven by the symbolism a colour carries, rather than the colour itself. Colours can trigger certain hormonal responses that, in turn, lead to psychological reactions.
Which colours are people most likely to be afraid of then? And how so ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the dangers of self-diagnosis?
How does daylight saving affect your health?
How can I sleep well with a blocked nose?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
Why do we jump when we get scared?
Whether you’re watching a horror film, or exposed to a sudden loud noise, all of us have jumped at some point when scared. The body’s response to getting startled is all too familiar: tense muscles, a racing heartbeat and a twitching neck, among others. But there’s still a lot of mystery behind the phenomenon.
Jolting is actually a natural and adaptive defensive response that helps our bodies avoid what it perceives as an immediate threat. How often it happens and how intense the response is depends on the context. The more negative or threatening the situation seems, the stronger the reaction.
What explains why some people seem to get startled more than others? Why do we sometimes jump as we're falling asleep? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the dangers of self-diagnosis?
How does daylight saving affect your health?
How can I sleep well with a blocked nose?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/29/2023 • 3 minutes, 57 seconds
Why does not getting enough sleep make you selfish?
Not getting a good night’s sleep can certainly leave you feeling grumpy and groggy, but can it also make you selfish? Sleep experts at the University of California, Berkeley certainly seem to think so, and apparently even losing just one hour of sleep is enough to make you less generous towards others and that includes friends and family.
The team conducted a number experiments which were published in the open-access journal. Over 100 participants were asked to fill out sleep diaries over four days - including how long they slept and if their sleep was interrupted then answer an ‘altruism questionnaire’ with questions like: “would you help if a stranger stopped to ask for directions while you were in a rush to get to work”.
What were the results? What impact could this have? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How does daylight saving affect your health?
How can I sleep well with a blocked nose?
Why is Disney becoming unpopular?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 06/09/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/29/2023 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
What is omphalophobia, the fear of belly buttons?
Be honest, if you hadn’t heard the title of this episode, would you have been able to guess that this person was talking about a belly button? She was a contestant on Family Feud Australia in 2017, and just hearing mention of the words “belly button” were enough to trigger her.
It might sound like an extreme reaction to a belly button, but she’s actually far from being the only person to have what’s called omphalophobia. Throughout history, people’s belly buttons were almost always concealed unless they were in the comfort of their own homes, but these days seeing girls in crop tops is really common, especially in summer. That’s not great news for those with omphalophobia!
How do you explain this phobia? Can it be managed? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is Disney becoming unpopular?
How does daylight saving affect your health?
How can I sleep well with a blocked nose?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/28/2023 • 3 minutes, 59 seconds
Why do we change clocks twice per year?
“Spring forward, fall back” goes the saying; that’s right - today, Sunday the 30th of October 2022, saw the clocks go back an hour, meaning it gets dark earlier all of a sudden and winter is on its way!
If there’s one day, or rather two days, of the year where you don’t want to schedule any important appointments, it’s on a day when the clock changes. Forgetting the time change is something that’s happened to all of us at least once in our lifetimes. Changing our clocks is so ingrained into our culture that we never really call it into question. But it has actually become a subject of debate in recent years, with some people even saying we should do away with the whole idea.
Who first came up with the idea then? What’s the point of it all? Why is it a subject of debate then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is Disney becoming unpopular?
What is the coffee cup test in job interviews?
Faux self-care: are we being fooled by the wellness industry?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 30/10/22
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What are the dangers of self-diagnosis?
The chances are that at some point you’ve scoured the internet in an attempt to figure out why you’re feeling sick. Maybe you go to Dr Google as a matter of habit any time you’re in discomfort or pain. Indeed, back in 2019, Google Heatlh Vice President David Feinberg told the Telegraph that 7% of all Google searches related to health, adding up to an incredible 70,000 every minute.
But there are dangers to self-diagnosing. A lot of people rely heavily on social media, online forums, or even AI tools like ChatGPT as their primary sources for self-diagnosis. But there are various reasons why people choose to search for health-related information online. For example, it's free and can be done around the clock without needing to book an appointment.
Isn’t it obvious that seeing a doctor is a better idea than doing that? Could someone miss a serious medical condition due to incorrect self-diagnosis? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How does daylight saving affect your health?
How can I sleep well with a blocked nose?
Why is Disney becoming unpopular?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
How does daylight saving affect your health?
Daylight saving time (DST) It’s the practice of advancing your clocks by one hour during the spring and summer months, and then turning them back in the autumn and winter. The idea is to make better use of natural daylight and save energy. But some people question if it really works and if there are any advantages to us at all.
Daylight saving time was first proposed by Benjamin Franklin in 1784 to conserve candles. But it wasn’t implemented in the United States until 1918, during World War I, as a way to save fuel. Since then, DST has been adopted by many countries around the world . It was first introduced in the UK in 1916, during World War I, as a way to save coal. In the UK, DST begins on the last Sunday of March and ends on the last Sunday of October.
But what are the benefits of DST? Does it really save energy? Does changing our clocks affect our sleep and well-being? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is Disney becoming unpopular?
What is the coffee cup test in job interviews?
Faux self-care: are we being fooled by the wellness industry?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
How can I sleep well with a blocked nose?
It’s not uncommon for rhinoviruses to resurface during the spring and autumn seasons. They’re the main cause of the common cold. At the same time, spring also brings increased pollen circulation, leading to hay fever symptoms which are very similar to those of a viral cold.
Having a blocked nose can be particularly bothersome, what with having to blow your nose every two minutes, sneezing, having a sore throat and sometimes getting a fever. Most of the time, all you want to do is rest. But that’s not easy when you have a cold. Let’s discuss some tips that can help you get a better night’s sleep!
Is there a way to stop coughing so much? Should I try sleeping in a certain position? What about drinking fluids? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is Disney becoming unpopular?
What is the coffee cup test in job interviews?
Faux self-care: are we being fooled by the wellness industry?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast : 12/03/23
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
Why is Disney becoming unpopular?
The Walt Disney Company is celebrating its centenary this October, but the prevailing mood is far from festive. That’s because Disney's image is taking a hit. In May 2023, Axios-Harris placed it 77th for reputation in a ranking of America’s 100 most visible companies. When you consider that it had figured 4th on that same list as recently as 2019, the impact is clear.
On that front, it's not doing too shabbily. Mickey Mouse remains one of the world's most iconic characters, and Disney, with its movies, theme parks, and streaming services, continues to be an integral part of many Westerners' lives.
Is Disney's brand still powerful then? What’s really behind the fall in popularity then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Faux self-care: are we being fooled by the wellness industry?
Do superfoods actually work?
Why do some people confuse their left and right?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
What is the coffee cup test in job interviews?
Job interviews have always been a daunting prospect for a number of reasons. And the process is only getting more time-consuming for candidates, without offering increased chances of success. According to a June 2023 report from the Josh Bersin Company and AMS, the average recruitment process now take a whopping 44 days.
As if all this isn’t demanding enough, interviewers like to throw in the occasional curveball too when meeting candidates. One such example is the coffee cup test, which gained attention in 2019 after a man called Trent Innes, then Managing Director of Xero Australia, appeared on The Venture Podcast with Lambros Photios to discuss his hiring strategy.
Why are we talking about it in 2023 then? Why is there a growing emphasis on soft skills in the workplace? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Faux self-care: are we being fooled by the wellness industry?
Do superfoods actually work?
Why do some people confuse their left and right?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/25/2023 • 5 minutes, 20 seconds
Faux self-care: are we being fooled by the wellness industry?
You’ve probably seen the ads for products and services that promise to make you happier, healthier, and more fulfilled. Things like journals, air purifiers, crystal jewellery, and of course, bubble baths. These are all examples of what some experts call ‘faux self-care’: the idea that we can buy our way out of stress, burnout, and depression.
It’s also based on the idea that we are responsible for our own wellbeing, and that we shouldn’t expect or demand care from others. This is especially true for women, who are often expected to juggle multiple roles and responsibilities without complaining or asking for help.
But does faux self-care really work, or does it make us feel worse in the long run? And how can we practise real self-care? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do some people confuse their left and right?
Why did the man who invented the lobotomy win a Nobel Prize?
Is binge drinking over in the UK?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
Do superfoods actually work?
While it’s not a scientifically recognised food category, the term “superfoods” has become common when referring to certain foods that are very rich in nutrients and micronutrients. You may have heard about the disease-preventing wonders of seeds and algae for example, or weight loss benefits associated with fruits such as goji berries, spirulina, and pomegranates.
Let’s investigate whether all the hype is actually justified! Back in February 2019, health and fitness writer K. Aleisha Fetters penned an article for Vice.com under the headline “There’s No Such Thing As A Superfood.” Fetters said that superfoods are in reality “something between wishful thinking and really effective marketing.”
Is there any doubt as to whether they’re good for you? So, superfoods are actually useless then, are they? Can you give me any examples? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do some people confuse their left and right?
Why did the man who invented the lobotomy win a Nobel Prize?
Is binge drinking over in the UK?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 17/03/23
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
Why do some people confuse their left and right?
Knowing the difference between right and left is crucial for various daily activities like driving and navigation. While most of us take this skill for granted, a significant portion of the population faces challenges with it. A study published in 2020 in the Journal of Experimental Psychology estimated that one in six adults struggles to distinguish their right from their left.
Of course, if you turn the wrong way when out in the street, it can be a minor inconvenience. You might get lost, or turn up late for an appointment for example. But in some cases, confusing left and right can be a matter of life and death. It might sound unlikely, but all too many times, surgery has been carried out on the wrong side of a patient’s body due to human error, with tragic consequences. And back in 2010 it emerged that the sinking of the Titanic may have actually been caused by a left-right steering error.
So, how does this actually work? Now, why is this such a challenge? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is an oil shock?
Could Turmeric help indigestion?
What is reverse ageing?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
Why did the man who invented the lobotomy win a Nobel Prize?
In 1949, neurologist Egas Moniz reached the pinnacle of his career when he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine. He received this honor for what is now known as a lobotomy, though at the time it was referred to as leucotomy, "for its therapeutic value in certain psychoses."
This controversial medical procedure, widely used in the 1940s, was later deemed barbaric and eventually banned in the 1980s. However, the legacy of this Nobel Prize is now under considerable scrutiny, with many critics calling for its revocation. The Nobel Foundation, on the other hand, stands firm, asserting that Egas Moniz's name will remain among the laureates.
But what exactly is a lobotomy? So, in what historical context did this practice emerge? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is reverse ageing?
Could Turmeric help indigestion?
What is an oil shock?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/22/2023 • 5 minutes, 12 seconds
Is binge drinking over in the UK?
Binge drinking is defined as consuming 5 or more drinks for a man, or 4 or more drinks for a woman, in about 2 hours, and the UK has a rather notorious reputation for drinking to excess, especially when abroad.
But according to a 2022 survey from Drinkaware, 26 % so nearly a third of 16 to 24-year-olds in the UK are now completely teetotal, meaning they do not drink at all. Add to this that 29% of pub visits and 37% of restaurant visits are also alcohol free. While the non-alcoholic beverage market has grown over 506 % since 2015 and it is pretty clear that sobriety or at least being "sober curious" a search term that actually peaked in 2021 following the pandemic might be the new normal in the UK.
So could binge drinking be a thing of the past? What else has caused this change? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Is it bad to drink water with a meal?
Are Skyr yoghurts really good for you?
Why is physical contact important for our health?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast : 06/10/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
How long does love last according to science?
We’ve talked about love and relationships in a number of previous episodes of Do You Really Know. You may remember we’ve discussed the secrets to a long-lasting relationship, and the triangular theory of love for example.
But despite lovey dovey representations of romance in films, a lot of people say that love doesn’t last forever. Some people say it’s limited to three years max for example. So what does science have to say on the matter then?
Why wouldn’t love be the same three months and three years into a relationship then? Does genetics have any role to play? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is reverse ageing?
Could Turmeric help indigestion?
What is an oil shock?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
What is class-passing?
Everybody loves a rags-to-riches story, but the reality is social mobility is far from easy. Class-passers are those who manage to successfully improve their status and navigate their new life as part of a higher socioeconomic group.
To understand class-passing, let’s first discuss the idea of social classes. Within our societies, people are divided according to factors like their family background, education, wealth, occupation and income. Most commonly these categories are described as the lower, middle and upper classes. A person’s life path and opportunities are often defined by their social background. For example, just 26% of poorer school pupils in the UK went on to higher education in 2017, compared to 44% among their better-off peers.
Is there a surefire way to climb the social ladder? Or do I just need to hope for a lucky break? Shouldn’t class-passers be proud to have made it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Is it bad to drink water with a meal?
Are Skyr yoghurts really good for you?
Why is physical contact important for our health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast : 11/03/2021
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
What is reverse ageing?
In 2021, American multi-millionaire Bryan Johnson began his Project Blueprint. Then 43, his stated aim was to restore his body and organs to the state of an eighteen-year-old.
To do this, he follows an extreme fitness program and a strict diet, and takes a whole host of medicines and supplements, not to mention undergoing an organ operation every year. All of this costs around $2M per year. His team of doctors say that the results are promising, but other medical experts are more skeptical.
Haven't we always wanted to slow down the ageing process? How does reverse ageing work then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do we get screen apnea?
What is kalsarikännit?
What are lucid dreams?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
Could Turmeric help indigestion?
Turmeric is a plant that belongs to the ginger family. It has a bright yellow-orange color, and a bitter and peppery taste. The main active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
One of the conditions that turmeric may help with is indigestion which can be caused by various factors, such as stress, overeating, alcohol, medications, or underlying diseases. However, one of the main causes is excess stomach acid, which can irritate the lining of the stomach and the esophagus causing symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating, nausea, and heartburn.
But what if there was a natural alternative to drugs? So, should you start taking tumeric? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do we get screen apnea?
What is kalsarikännit?
What are lucid dreams?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
What is an oil shock?
The day Russian forces invaded Ukraine in February 2022, the price of crude oil surged over the $100 a barrel mark for the first time since 2014. Soon, economic sanctions would be announced against Russia, with buyers shunning exports from the world’s third largest oil producing country.
For over a century, oil has been both a fuel and a barometer for the world economy. But it can also be a double-edged sword as Western countries found out in the 1970s. At the start of the 1970s, the post-war boom was coming to an end. From 1971 onwards, things started going downhill, and oil ended up being at the heart of an unprecedented economic and geopolitical crisis.
How did the 1973 crisis come around? How did the oil-dependent Western countries react? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Is it bad to drink water with a meal?
Are Skyr yoghurts really good for you?
Why is physical contact important for our health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast : 26/03/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/19/2023 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
What is kalsarikännit?
Regular listeners will be familiar with a number of Scandinavian lifestyle trends by now, given we’ve discussed the likes of Denmark’s hygge, Sweden’s lagom and Norway’s friluftsliv on the show in the past. Today, we’re going to talk about a custom from Finland which has gained international recognition in recent years.
Kalsarikännit is made up of two Finnish words: “kalsari", which means "underwear" and "kännit", which means "getting drunk’. An odd combination, you might be thinking. Put them together and what do you get? The term actually refers to the tradition of getting tipsy at home alone. It has also been loosely translated and anglicised into the word “pantsdrunk”.
How did it get to be so popular? Isn’t drinking alone at home kind of sad? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Is it bad to drink water with a meal?
Are Skyr yoghurts really good for you?
Why is physical contact important for our health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/18/2023 • 5 minutes, 1 second
Why do we get screen apnea?
It’s pretty common knowledge that office workers across the world have a sedentary lifestyle, which is linked with a whole host of potential health problems. But did you know that most of us also unconsciously hold our breath when staring into an electronic screen?
The phenomenon was discovered by former Microsoft executive Linda Stone back in 2008, who named it email apnea. While she did a lot of breathing exercises at home, she realised those went out the window when she was in front of her computer screen looking through her emails. Fast forward to the 2020s and it’s not just emails that cause us to hold our breath. Laptops and smartphones are now part of our everyday lives, meaning we spend more time than ever before using electronic devices.
What’s going on in our bodies when this happens? What are the health effects? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are lucid dreams?
What are primitive reflexes?
Is it bad to drink water with a meal?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/18/2023 • 5 minutes, 1 second
What are lucid dreams?
Lucid dreams are dreams in which you become aware that you are dreaming while you are dreaming. This means that you can recognise that the events and characters in your dream are not real, and that you are actually asleep in your bed.
Some people can even control their dreams to some extent, and shape them according to their wishes. Imagine being able to fly, visit exotic places, or meet your favourite celebrities in your dreams.
But how do lucid dreams happen? And why would you want to have lucid dreams? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Is it bad to drink water with a meal?
Are Skyr yoghurts really good for you?
Why is physical contact important for our health?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/17/2023 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
What are primitive reflexes?
According to the UK Office for National Statistics, September 26 was the most popular day to be born over the last two decades, which falls 39 weeks and two days after Christmas day.
Babies are born with certain reflexes that result in involuntary movements. These are called primitive reflexes, and the movements happen automatically without the baby sending a message to their brain. Such reflexes develop during the foetal period and indicate that the baby’s brain is functioning well.
What are some examples? Isn’t it just the cutest when a baby grabs your finger? Do these reflexes remain with babies as they develop into children? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Is it bad to drink water with a meal?
Are Skyr yoghurts really good for you?
Why is physical contact important for our health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast : 20/11/2021
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/17/2023 • 3 minutes, 44 seconds
Is it bad to drink water with a meal?
It's often said that drinking water while eating can make the stomach swell, causing bloating. But in reality, there are no studies to back that up. Similarly, drinking or avoiding drinking while eating also has no impact on the effectiveness of digestive juices or on any supposed difficulty in secreting them and therefore on digestion.
We know that that water helps soften food boluses being digested by the body. A bolus is a ball-like mixture of food and saliva that forms in the mouth when we chew. Water also has the advantage of curbing hunger, thereby regulating our appetite.
What do we know for sure about drinking water with meals? When is the best time of day to drink water? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do some people sleep with their mouths open?
How can you avoid bed bugs when you travel?
What is microwork?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
Are Skyr yoghurts really good for you?
If you've ever strolled down the dairy aisle of your local grocery store, chances are you've come across these little tubs of Icelandic goodness. Skyr yoghurt has really grown in popularity in the last five to ten years. But is it really as healthy as it’s touted to be, or is its reputation down to marketing hype?
It's a traditional Icelandic yogurt, which is said to have been brought to Iceland by the Vikings when they settled there over a thousand years ago. It's marketed as a yoghurt, but is in fact technically a soft cheese. Skyr's uniqueness lies in its manufacturing process, which gives it that thick and creamy texture, similar to fresh cheese.
How did it become so popular? What are the nutritional qualities of skyr? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can you avoid bed bugs when you travel?
What is microwork?
How does pollution affect my mental health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
Why is physical contact important for our health?
When it comes to expressions about skin, the English language is not lacking. For example, we can be thick or thin skinned, or have someone under our skin. To show indifference, we say “it’s no skin off” our noses, and when we get excited we “jump out of” our skin.
The sheer number of different idioms reflects the deep links the skin has with our brains. Sometimes these links are visible and give away our feelings, when we blush, go pale or get goosebumps. The same can be said for stress too, in the case of some skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
How does the skin send information to the brain? What impact does touch have on our brains? How does touch affect health then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can you avoid bed bugs when you travel?
What is microwork?
How does pollution affect my mental health?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
How can I influence my dreams?
How our brains work during dreams is as fascinating as it is mysterious. Dreams can be hard to predict, and sometimes of course we end up having nightmares. Wouldn’t it be nice to have some control over what happens in our dreams? Well, as it turns out it may actually be possible to some extent.
Well controlling dreams fully is a bit of a stretch. But according to neuroscience researchers from the universities of Freiburg and Tübingen in Germany, simply listening to an audiobook just before falling asleep is enough to have a significant impact on our dreams.
How does it work? What can it be used for? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do some people sleep with their mouths open?
How can you avoid bed bugs when you travel?
What is microwork?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
What is mansplaining?
Have you ever noticed a man explaining something to a woman in a supremely confident way which suggests he absolutely knows more than her about the subject? Well, there’s a term for that, which is mansplaining.
A recent thread on parenting forum Mumsnet invited women to share their worst examples of mansplaining. Among them were patronising explanations of the offside rule, a gas man telling a qualified engineer to wait for her partner to get home so he could tell him how to fix the boiler rather than her and a male doctor telling a pregnant woman not to worry as C-sections aren’t painful!
How long has mansplaining been around? Why do men do this then? Are they really all that bad? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can you avoid bed bugs when you travel?
What is microwork?
How does pollution affect my mental health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
First broadcast: 19/07/2021
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
Why do some people sleep with their mouths open?
Let’s be honest, sleeping with an open mouth isn’t the most graceful of images, but in reality it’s pretty common. If you’ve ever woken up with a dry mouth or a puddle of drool on your pillow, maybe it happened to you.
One of the reasons is because the muscles in our face stay tense throughout the day, but relax when we go to sleep. People sleep with their mouths open when they breathe through their mouths, and there are actually a number of reasons why that happens!
Is it not just down to gravity then? Does mouth breathing have any health consequences? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How does pollution affect my mental health?
What is the soft evening concept from Tiktok?
What is Hugh Jackman’s 85% rule?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
How can you avoid bed bugs when you travel?
Bed bugs are small, blood-sucking insects that can infest your luggage, clothing, bedding and furniture. They are not only a nuisance, but can also cause allergic reactions, skin infections and psychological distress.
Bed bugs are not a sign of poor hygiene or low-quality accommodation; they can be found anywhere, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and since the arrival of airbnb most big cities have seen a significant increase in infestation.
So how can you prevent them from hitchhiking with you on your travels? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How does pollution affect my mental health?
What is the soft evening concept from Tiktok?
What is Hugh Jackman’s 85% rule?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/12/2023 • 3 minutes, 59 seconds
What is microwork?
Microwork is paid work which usually involves short and repetitive tasks carried out on a smartphone or computer. It could be identifying objects shown in an image, watching videos, labelling data, translating short sentences or recording one’s voice for example.
It can also be charging electric scooters or taking photos of products for an app. It’s as simple as registering on a platform which acts as the middle man between workers and companies. Amazon Mechanical Turk is an example of one such platform.
That sounds simple enough; what is life like as a microworker then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How does pollution affect my mental health?
What is the soft evening concept from Tiktok?
What is Hugh Jackman’s 85% rule?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
How does pollution affect my mental health?
According to the government, air pollution is the “largest environmental risk to public health”, and accounts for between 28,000 and 36,000 deaths each year. But did you know that the air you breathe might be impacting not only your physical health but also your mental well-being?
It's the largest environmental risk to public health because harmful pollutants like fine particulate matter, ammonia and nitrogen dioxide get into our bodies, affecting the eyes, nose and throat, heart and blood vessels and the respiratory system. But there are also risks regarding our mental health. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in February 2023 reported on the link between air pollution and psychological disorders.
What did the study find? Who can be affected by air pollution? And how can we protect ourselves then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Hugh Jackman’s 85% rule?
What is burnout?
What is the Werther effect?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/11/2023 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
What is the soft evening concept from Tiktok?
Do you ever feel frustrated about work dominating your life? Maybe in your free time, you try to make up for that by enjoying yourself and having a busy social life. You go to the cinema, fit in a workout and so on. But these activities sometimes end up putting more pressure on you than the pleasure you get out of them.
What if I told you you could have a thoroughly satisfying evening, without it needing to be productive at all? Over on Tiktok, a concept called “soft evenings” has emerged to combat society’s obsession with hyperproductivity and hustle culture.
What does it involve? How do I get started then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Hugh Jackman’s 85% rule?
What is burnout?
What is the Werther effect?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/11/2023 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
What is Hugh Jackman’s 85% rule?
You may know Hugh Jackman as the star of X-Men, The Greatest Showman, and Les Misérables, but did you know that he has a secret to success that involves working less, not more?
That’s right, Hugh Jackman follows the 85% rule, an unofficial guide to life that says we should try hard at things, but not too hard. In other words, we should aim to work at 85% of our capacity, rather than 100%.
But why would he do that, and does it really work? Does the science back up this claim? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Werther effect?
How can I overcome my fear of speaking in public?
What are plant milks?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/10/2023 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
What is burnout?
In January 2021, the European Parliament approved a “right to disconnect” policy which passed relatively unnoticed in the midst of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. This resolution recognises workers rights to switch off outside of working hours, in order to protect their mental health, wellbeing and private lives.
A Eurofound survey estimated that one third of all workers were working remotely last year. Since the pandemic, a sedentary and “always-on” lifestyle has become the norm for many. While remote work clearly has some advantages, staying connected and available around the clock can have negative effects. These include anxiety, depression or even a burnout.
Is burnout similar to depression then? How can I tell if one of my colleagues is experiencing a burn-out? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Werther effect?
How can I overcome my fear of speaking in public?
What are plant milks?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/10/2023 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
What is the Werther effect?
In April 2023, Bloomberg.com published an article entitled "Tiktok’s Algorithm Keeps Pushing Suicide to Vulnerable Kids” in which it explained that Tiktok was facing a “flood of lawsuits” due to teen suicides that the victims’ parents blamed on the social media company.
So if a user interacts with or views suicide-related content, even out of curiosity, the algorithm may suggest more of such material, potentially increasing negative thoughts and contributing to a concerning cycle of exposure. It’s comparable to a phenomenon that was observed in the late 20th century, known as the Werther effect. Another name for it is copycat suicide.
Where does the name come from? What are some recent examples of the Werther effect? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How did Ozempic get so popular?
Will AI steal my job?
What is Pokémon?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
How can I overcome my fear of speaking in public?
According to a study conducted by the Statistic Brain Research Institute in 2016, 74% of the global population feels uncomfortable speaking in front of an audience. That might be an oral exam at school, a presentation at work, or even making a toast at a birthday party for example.
The symptoms are often the same: sweaty palms, shortness of breath and a racing heart. You may feel like you’re frozen! The level of anxiety can range from light nervousness to total panic. And it’s not always easy to shift this kind of stage fright.
Is there a specific name for this fear? How can you overcome glossophobia then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How did Ozempic get so popular?
Will AI steal my job?
What is Pokémon?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
What are plant milks?
Plant milks have been all the rage for a number of years now, and they’re gradually taking up more and more space on supermarket shelves, to the detriment of animal milks.
In 2020, British shoppers spent £100m more on plant milks compared to the previous year, according to research from Mintel. That was a rise of over 30%, demonstrating their growing popularity. They are considered a viable alternative for people who are allergic or intolerant to lactose. They often have a sweet taste, making them a popular breakfast option.
But these products aren’t really milks, are they? Are they really better from a nutritional point of view? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is attachment theory?
What is the best time of year to find work?
How can I beat a hangover?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 11/04/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
Is it bad to drink coffee after 4pm?
According to the British Coffee Association, we drink around 98 million cups of coffee per day in the UK. That’s around one and a half cups for every single person in the country! It’s said that drinking coffee in the evening or even late afternoon has a negative impact on sleep quality, but a lot of people do so anyway.
Coffee contains various molecules, such as antioxidants and caffeine, which has a psychostimulant effect and is therefore behind the links to disrupting sleep. Our bodies don’t all metabolise caffeine in the same way though; that varies from person to person.
Are some of us more sensitive to it than others? What quantity should we aim for? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How did Ozempic get so popular?
Will AI steal my job?
What is Pokémon?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
What are Butler Cafés?
According to Chinese media outlet The Sixth Tone, butler cafés are enjoying impressive success. They’ve been springing up all over big cities since 2021.
In China, an interesting trend has been catching on. An increasing number of women are paying for male companionship in establishments known as butler cafés. Review sites list dozens of outlets offering butler services.
And how do they work? Is it a new concept? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is attachment theory?
What is the best time of year to find work?
How can I beat a hangover?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 23/09/2021
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
How did Ozempic get so popular?
Today we’re talking about a diabetes medicine which has gained a reputation for leading to weight loss. Ozempic became popular among Hollywood celebrities for its appetite-suppressing properties.
Elon Musk has tweeted about it three times, giving it part of the credit for his having lost 30lb in late 2022. Over on Tiktok, users have also been singing Ozempic’s praises for a while now, with the hashtag having reached 1.3 bn views at the time of recording this episode.
How does it work exactly? What drug supply issues has Ozempic’s popularity caused? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How to use less water?
What is Focus Friday?
How do you explain intuition?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
Will AI steal my job?
AI is transforming many industries and sectors, from manufacturing to healthcare, from education to entertainment which will inevitably affect the way we work. But will AI replace humans or create new opportunities?
Artificial intelligence, or AI, is the ability of machines to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as recognizing faces, understanding speech, or making decisions. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, AI could displace 75 million jobs by 2025, but also create 133 million new ones.
How can we prepare for this shift? So, will AI steal your job and is that a good thing? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How to use less water?
What is Pokémon?
What is ecological debt?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
What is Pokémon?
Having grossed more than $40 billion over the years, Pokémon is the second-biggest franchise in video game history, surpassed only by Mario. It has sold 370 million copies-and shows no sign of letting up.
In 2022, Pokémon Legends of Arceus was released on Nintendo Switch. The latest instalment in the video game series aims to breathe new life into a licence which has been labelled conservative in some quarters, promising a return to the homeland of the mysterious Pokémon, at a time when trainers did not exist.
But how did it all start? That name rings a bell, doesn’t it? So what are the Pokemon games actually like? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is attachment theory?
What is the best time of year to find work?
How can I beat a hangover?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 08/02/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What is Focus Friday?
Let's be honest: being productive at work on Fridays can be a real challenge. A 2019 study by Accountemps found that Friday was the least common choice for American workers when naming their most productive day of the week.
The slump is likely down to having worked hard over the first four days of the week, as well as thinking ahead to the weekend. What’s more, your colleagues are in the same frame of mind too. But in recent years, a method has emerged to combat this phenomenon and potentially turn Friday into the most impactful day of the week. It’s known as Focus Friday.
How does it work? How can you implement it on your own? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How to use less water?
What is Pokémon?
What is ecological debt?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/4/2023 • 5 minutes, 1 second
How do you explain intuition?
We've all experienced those gut feelings, hunches, or flashes of insight that seem to come from nowhere. But what exactly is intuition, and can it be explained?
Even though scientists haven't yet unraveled all of its secrets, intuition isn’t as mysterious as we might think. One expert definition of intuition says that it is: "the universal ability to grasp information in a non-conventional way, outside of a rational and reasoned process.” It’s the kind of intimate knowledge of reality that doesn't rely on knowledge, reflection, or logic.
Are there different types of intuition? Does everyone have intuition? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How to use less water?
What is Pokémon?
What is ecological debt?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
How to use less water?
Water footprint matters because scientists have calculated that the climate crisis makes drought 20 times more likely, while the UN predicts that demand for fresh water will exceed supply by 40% by 2030.
You might think that you only use water when you drink, cook, wash, or flush the loo, but actually, you use much more water than that. According to Water UK, the average person in the UK uses 142 litres per day. That’s the amount of water that is needed to produce the food, clothes, and other products that you consume.
How can you reduce your water footprint? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is attachment theory?
What is the best time of year to find work?
How can I beat a hangover?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
What is ecological debt?
Let’s take a moment to consider a concept which highlights both the scale of the climate crisis and inequalities between different areas of the world. Discussions around ecological debt are closely linked to that of overshoot and the overuse of planet Earth's resources.
Every year we continue to consume too many resources, and pollute the planet. If we consider that as mounting ecological debt, let’s say we’re now paying interest. It takes the form of extreme weather events, food shortages, the disappearance of other species, unremedied environmental degradation and the buildup of CO2 in the atmosphere. All this ecological debt is carried forward to future generations.
Is there another definition of ecological debt then? Is there a division between North and South? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is attachment theory?
What is the best time of year to find work?
How can I beat a hangover?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 03/06/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
What is attachment theory?
Each of us has our own unique experience of social bonds, influenced by our childhood, previous relationships, and personality. And there’s actually a psychological theory that helps explain how we experience our relationships: attachment theory.
In psychology, attachment is the strong bond between an individual and an "attachment figure." In most cases, our first attachment figure is the parent who takes care of us by meeting our needs from birth. Later on, the bond can become reciprocal between two adults, friends, or lovers.
Who theorised attachment? What are the different attachment styles? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is house hushing?
What is a caffè sospeso?
Why do my eyelids twitch when I’m tired?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
What is the best time of year to find work?
The SeptemberSurge hashtag has accrued 12.9M views on the platform at the time of recording. The trend suggests that September is the ideal time to find a job.
You worked for hours on perfecting your CV and cover letter. You've already applied for ten different jobs at ten different companies. But despite having all the right credentials, you’re just not hearing back from anyone. Maybe the problem isn’t actually what’s on your CV, but when you’re applying for a job.
Why is that? Are there periods to avoid? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is house hushing?
What is a caffè sospeso?
Why do my eyelids twitch when I’m tired?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/1/2023 • 5 minutes, 11 seconds
How can I beat a hangover?
If you drink alcohol, the chances are at some point you’ve had to deal with a nasty hangover, due to drinking too much. The associated headache, nausea, fatigue and other symptoms can make it a real challenge to get through the day after a night out.
There’s actually a scientific term for the unpleasant symptoms that come with a hangover; it’s veisalgia. According to Ted.com, between 3 and 23% of people actually don’t get hangovers at all. You can count yourself extremely lucky if you’re one of those people, although being prone to hangovers may be a blessing in disguise.
Why does the consumption of alcohol lead to such symptoms? Is drinking water effective at reducing hangover symptoms? What should I eat when hungover? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is house hushing?
What is a caffè sospeso?
Why do my eyelids twitch when I’m tired?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 18/11/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
Which foods should I avoid after their expiry date?
Some expired food products are easy to identify, due to an unpleasant smell, mould, swollen packaging or abnormal colour for example. But others show no visible changes in texture, colour, or smell. In such cases, you might well ask yourself if the item is still safe to consume.
To begin with, it's important to note that some products don’t expire, as long as they’re stored in the right conditions, as indicated on the packaging. For example, pasta, tinned goods, rice, sugar, flour, coffee, dry cakes, honey or vinegar. These tend to have an indicative "best before" date on the packaging, usually noted in the month-year format. But even if you go past that date, the product won’t be unfit for consumption. However, it may have lost some of its sensory qualities like taste, texture, or appearance.
So, which expired foods should definitely not be eaten? Does an opened product still have the same "use by" date? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do my eyelids twitch when I’m tired?
Is sleeping naked good for you?
Do anti-anxiety patches really work?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
Why do we get addicted to social media?
A recent report from CyberCrew revealed how UK residents spend an average of 110 minutes per day on social media. Many of us start scrolling before we’ve even got out of bed in the morning, in an almost automatic way.
Social networks can have a similar effect on the brain to certain addictive substances. According to Healthline.com, they stimulate the brain’s reward system. When you log in to your favorite social media platform, you get a burst of dopamine, a chemical that makes you feel good and motivates you to seek more of the same stimulus.
Why do we end up scrolling on Tiktok and Instagram for hours on? How does it work in concrete terms? Is it fair to say that social networks were designed to be addictive? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is house hushing?
What is a caffè sospeso?
Why do my eyelids twitch when I’m tired?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 12/05/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
What is astropsychology?
Regular listeners will remember how astrology has undergone somewhat of a revival in recent years. Knowledge of terms like “Saturn return” and “retrograde Mercury” is now actually pretty common, in particular among young people.
The topic of today’s episode actually blends astrology with the modern insights of psychology. The idea behind astropsychology is that the positions and movements of celestial bodies, such as planets and stars, can influence human behavior, emotions, and personality traits. It’s a personal development discipline which has been gaining in popularity for a while now.
Where does astropsychology come from? What happens when you go to see an astropsychologist? How can I be sure it's not a scam? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do my eyelids twitch when I’m tired?
Is sleeping naked good for you?
Do anti-anxiety patches really work?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/29/2023 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What is house hushing?
House hushing is a decluttering method that aims to create peaceful spaces in your home by reducing visual noise. Visual noise refers to anything excessive, jarring, or inharmonious in your environment, such as clutter, mismatched colors, or loud patterns.
According to interiors blogger Myquillin Smith of The Nester, "Everything in your room has a voice… taking up visual, physical and even emotional space. Quieting your space removes all those voices in a room at once."
Why is house hushing beneficial? And how do you hush a house? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do my eyelids twitch when I’m tired?
Is sleeping naked good for you?
Do anti-anxiety patches really work?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
What is a caffè sospeso?
Caffè sospeso literally translates to English as a ‘suspended coffee’. It’s an Italian tradition whereby cafe customers pay for an extra coffee that will be put aside, for a poor person to claim at a later time.
The caffè sospeso idea can be extended to other types of food, and it’s seen a revival in popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic. It’s believed the caffè sospeso tradition was born in Naples’ historic Gambrinus café, around the start of the 20th century.
Is it only the Italians who are big on solidarity then? And how do we know for sure that what we pay forward actually gets given out to a person in need? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Do anti-anxiety patches really work?
What are Incels?
Which foods shouldn't be eaten together?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First brodcast: 20/08/2020
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
Why do my eyelids twitch when I’m tired?
Have you ever noticed how your eyelids tend to start twitching at the end of a long day, or when you haven’t got enough sleep the previous night?
Well, first of all there’s no need to panic, it’s actually a benign phenomenon. It’s known as benign fasciculation syndrome, or myokymia. But still there are some things you can do about it.
What can be done to avoid this? What if the problem persists over time? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Which foods shouldn't be eaten together?
What is xylazine, the so-called zombie drug?
How can I stop smoking?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
Is sleeping naked good for you?
According to a YouGov study from 2022, 20% of Brits sleep naked. Men are actually more likely to do so than women, with a rate of 25% compared to 15%.
And those who do so tend to talk up the health benefits. For example, science suggests that sleeping naked might help regulate your body temperature more effectively. Our bodies naturally fluctuate throughout the night, and wearing heavy pajamas can interfere with this process.
What are the other advantages? Won't I get cold if I sleep naked? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Which foods shouldn't be eaten together?
What is xylazine, the so-called zombie drug?
How can I stop smoking?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
Do anti-anxiety patches really work?
There are different types of anti-anxiety patches, but one of the most popular ones is from a company called NuCalm, they say that its discs provide the neurochemistry to accelerate the onset of the relaxation response.
You may have seen them on celebrities like Meghan Markle, who was recently spotted wearing a NuCalm biosignal processing disc on her wrist. It’s a small blue sticker which claims to have a calming effect on the wearer by emitting signals or frequencies that affect the brain and the nervous system.
But how does NuCalm work, and is there any evidence to back up its claims? What do experts say about NuCalm’s patches? And does it work? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Which foods shouldn't be eaten together?
What is xylazine, the so-called zombie drug?
How can I stop smoking?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
What are Incels?
Incel is a portmanteau word which is short for “involuntary celibate”. These people are single despite themselves, and have abandoned any hope of one day finding love or even sex.
The incel community is overwhelmingly made up of young men, who are particularly active online, expressing their hatred towards women. Members of this subculture are obsessed by the fact that women apparently refuse to have sex with them. Ironically, the term itself was actually invented by a woman.
How can that be the case? Has Incel anger ever manifested itself in physical attacks? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Which foods shouldn't be eaten together?
What is xylazine, the so-called zombie drug?
How can I stop smoking?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 07/11/2020
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
Which foods shouldn't be eaten together?
Avoiding weight gain is just so difficult sometimes, isn’t it? It’s not enough to eat only healthy foods, you also have to combine those healthy foods in the right way.
That’s because when we eat different types of foods together, they interact with each other in our digestive system. Depending on their characteristics, some foods get digested faster than others.
What can happen to our bodies if we combine the 'wrong' foods? And which are the worst combinations? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the olive theory from Tiktok?
How does the vagus nerve affect your health?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
What is xylazine, the so-called zombie drug?
In July 2023, the White House recognised that the United States was facing a “grave threat” in the form of a highly addictive drug called xylazine, introducing a six-point plan in response.
Dealers mix xylazine into supplies of fentanyl, itself a dangerous drug which kills thousands of Americans each year. The street name for xylazine is “tranq” or “tranq dope”, but it has also been called the “zombie drug”.
What is it made up of? Why did people name it the zombie drug? Has it been seen outside of the US? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the olive theory from Tiktok?
How does the vagus nerve affect your health?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
How can I stop smoking?
We all know that the effects of tobacco on the human body are devastating. The World Health Organisation says that it kills more than 8 million people each year, making it one of the biggest public health threats the world has ever seen.
It’s hardly surprising when you consider that cigarettes contain over 4,000 chemical substances, and at least 50 of them are carcinogens, meaning they are linked to an increased risk of cancer. Many people will attempt to quit smoking as part of their New year’s resolutions, and we’re here to provide some information on the best ways to do so. It seems so, at least according to the most recent large-scale study on the subject which was published by Jama Network Open in October 2022.
If I give up, will my body ever fully recover? What different methods are out there? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the olive theory from Tiktok?
How does the vagus nerve affect your health?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast : 01/01/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
Why do we lose our appetite when we fall in love?
A lot of things happen to our bodies when we fall in love. Some of the obvious physical reactions are getting butterflies in the stomach, dilated pupils and a racing heartbeat. Another one that many of us have experienced is losing our appetite.
You know the feeling: you're so smitten with your new crush that you can barely eat a bite. You skip breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and instead spend hours daydreaming about them or talking to them on the phone.
What's actually going on inside the body when this happens? How do you explain that some people put on weight when in a relationship? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the olive theory from Tiktok?
How does the vagus nerve affect your health?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
Are blue eyes really more sensitive to light?
The idea that light-colored eyes are generally more fragile is pretty widespread. They’re less resistant to sunlight and require more protection. According to Medical News Today, it’s estimated that around 8-10% of people in the world have blue eyes.
When our eyes are open, rays of light pass through the pupil, the black opening in the center of the iris. As you may know, the pupil dilates when it’s dark and contracts in bright light. When light rays strike the retina, they’re captured by photoreceptor cells like rod cells, which are involved in night vision and cone cells that enable color vision, among other things.
What’s the function of the iris ? Is sunlight dangerous for the eyes? Is wearing sunglasses enough to protect my eyes ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the olive theory from Tiktok?
How does the vagus nerve affect your health?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
A podcast, written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast: 24/06/2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is the olive theory from Tiktok?
The olive theory actually started trending on Tiktok as of early 2023, leading younger generations to get familiar with How I Met Your Mother and one of its most popular relationship theories. At the time of recording, the #olivetheory hashtag has accrued over 130M views.
Fans of 2000s sitcom How I Met Your Mother can no doubt remember how the main character Ted Mosby is a hopeless romantic, and spends the duration of the series searching for his soulmate. But only the most hardcore of fans will remember the very first episode of the Hulu series, when Ted introduces something called the olive theory when talking about relationships.
What on earth do olives have to do with romantic compatibility? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Does sleeping next to someone improve sleep quality?
Why is the BRICS bloc expanding?
How can you clean your hair without using shampoo?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
How does the vagus nerve affect your health?
The vagus nerve is the longest and most complex of the cranial nerves. It carries both motor and sensory information and supplies reinforcement to the heart, major blood vessels, lungs, stomach, esophagus, and intestines.
It is often called the “rest and digest” system, because it helps the body to calm down and conserve energy after a stressful situation. It plays an important role in the parasympathetic nervous system, the parasympathetic nervous system is a part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls the functions of the body that are not under our conscious control, such as breathing, heartbeat, digestion, and so on.
So, what are the benefits of stimulating the vagus nerve? And how can you stimulate it ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Does sleeping next to someone improve sleep quality?
Why is the BRICS bloc expanding?
How can you clean your hair without using shampoo?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
The idea of carbon footprint dates back to the early 2000s and ironically was introduced by oil giant BP. But recently, a new concept was created: the climate change shadow.
It's a relatively recent addition to the ever growing list of terms relating to climate change. American writer Emma Pattee introduced the idea of the climate shadow in a blog post for Mic.com in December 2021, as a more comprehensive metric for each person’s impact on the climate crisis.
What exactly contributes to my climate shadow? Isn’t that very similar to a carbon footprint? How useful is the concept of a climate shadow? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can you clean your hair without using shampoo?
What is the Batman effect?
What is cookie jarring in the dating world?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast : 10/08/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
Why is the BRICS bloc expanding?
During the 15th annual BRICS summit in Johannesburg in 2023, the South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that 6 new member countries would be joining the bloc in 2024.
Historically composed by Brazil, Russia, India and China, the BRICS countries control a significant amount of natural resources, making it a key actor in the world. They started to organize summits as an intergovernmental organisation in 2009 and the annual summits have taken place ever since.
But if they are already so powerful, why are they expanding? Which countries have joined? And what are the goals behind that? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can you clean your hair without using shampoo?
What's the ideal temperature to stay healthy at home?
What is cookie jarring in the dating world?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
Does sleeping next to someone improve sleep quality?
Have you ever cursed your luck at having a partner who snores, or spends the whole night tossing and turning in bed? It can be tempting to consider abandoning them to go and sleep on the sofa instead.
Evidence suggests that sleeping next to someone does indeed have a pretty significant impact on adults’ sleep, whether that’s a partner, family member or even a pet. Researchers from the University of Arizona looked into the matter, and published the results of their study in Sleep journal in June 2022, under the title Bed Sharing Versus Sleeping Alone Associated with Sleep Health and Mental Health.
Was it a positive impact? And what if my partner snores loudly or wakes up suddenly during the night? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can you clean your hair without using shampoo?
What's the ideal temperature to stay healthy at home?
What is cookie jarring in the dating world?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
How can you clean your hair without using shampoo?
You might think that shampoo is essential for keeping your hair clean and healthy, but there are other ways to wash your hair that don’t involve harsh chemicals or plastic bottles. In fact, some people claim that ditching shampoo altogether can make your hair softer, shinier, and more manageable.
Why do we use shampoo in the first place? So, how can you clean your hair without using shampoo? What are the advantages of shampoo? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can you get food poisoning from raw fish?
Should you be reducing salt in your diet?
Why do we get nightmares?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
What's the ideal temperature to stay healthy at home?
The World Health Organisation suggests that 18° C is the perfect temperature to set your heating to, but in reality that is just an average. There are a number of variables to take into account.
For example, certain rooms might need to be heated more than others. And generally speaking, when we’re away from home or sleeping at night we can turn the heating down or off completely. That’s right, it can depend on age and medical conditions like thyroid problems for example. Where a certain temperature might be comfortable for some, for others it might be less bearable.
Isn’t it true that some people are more sensitive to the cold than others? Which rooms need to be heated more than others then? What should you do if your home is humid? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why was Kanye West’s Twitter account suspended?
How can you save money on your food bill?
Why is 'permacrisis' the new dictionary word of the year?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast : 11/12/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What is cookie jarring in the dating world?
Do you have an ex who seems to always get back in touch whenever they’re feeling lonely and have no one else in their sights? Or how about this: Perhaps you had a crush on someone, and that person played along, taking you out from time to time only to eventuall you they’ve finally hooked up with another person they’d been in love with for ages, but never told you about? Well if either of those scenarios sounds familiar, you may well have been a victim of cookie jarring.
Where does the name come from? What forms can cookie jarring take? How can I avoid being cookie-jarred? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can you get food poisoning from raw fish?
Should you be reducing salt in your diet?
Why do we get nightmares?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
What is the Batman effect?
For many people, asserting themselves at work is a real challenge. There’s a lot of possible reasons for that, including stress, anxiety, new responsibilities, deadlines, personal issues or a lack of self-confidence for example. But there is an active congitive strategy, actually a pretty simple one, based on the psychological concept of "self-distancing," that could help you overcome these obstacles and become more confident in the workplace: the Batman effect.
Why Batman? Does it work for adults too? How can I use the Batman effect then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can you get food poisoning from raw fish?
Should you be reducing salt in your diet?
Why do we get nightmares?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/17/2023 • 5 minutes, 1 second
What is sexsomnia?
We all know someone who talks in their sleep, or occasionally sleepwalks around the house, perhaps even heading to the kitchen to prepare a nighttime snack. These kinds of episodes aren’t especially rare. But some forms are relatively unknown, one of which is sexsomnia.
It’s a form of parasomnia, which means undesirable behaviour which occurs while falling asleep, during sleep, or while waking up. As you may have guessed from the name, sexsomnia consists of sexual activity, ranging from aroused moaning to exhibitionism, masturbation, fondling or even penetration. Just like with sleepwalking, a person with sexsomnia usually has no recollection of their acts the next day.
It must be pretty rare to suffer from sexsomnia, mustn’t it? Does sexsomnia affect certain groups of people more than others? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is a frenemy?
Which colours go well together according to science?
Why is sitting with your legs crossed bad?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast : 19/08/2021
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/17/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
Why do our tastes change as we get older?
Think back to when you were a kid and there was a type of vegetable you simply wouldn’t go near, let alone eat. It might have been broccoli, Brussels sprouts or spinach for example.
Or perhaps another type of food like seafood, which now as an adult you actually quite like, or can tolerate at least. It’s not a coincidence; there are scientific explanations for why our taste preferences evolve with time.
What tastes do children actually like most then? Does this hypersensitivity decrease with age then? Do other factors play a role in changing our food preferences? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we get nightmares?
Has the climate breakdown really begun?
What is a frenemy?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/16/2023 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
What is sad nipple syndrome?
The nipples are an erogenous zone for many people. But as it turns out, having them touched can bring on a whole other kind of feeling for others. The so-called sad nipple syndrome has been discussed more openly on Reddit and Tiktok in the last few years, raising awareness. But it still remains somewhat of a mystery.
It refers to a wave of negative emotions on a person when their nipples are touched, or come into contact with clothing that’s too tight. It seems to be more common in women, but there have been cases of men being affected too. A wide range of emotions have been noted: deep sadness, jealousy, nostalgia or irritability, to name a few.
What kind of negative emotions are we talking about? Is there a scientific explanation behind sad nipple syndrome? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is my circadian rhythm so important?
Why do we enjoy being scared?
What is an oil shock?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast : 29/10/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
Can you get food poisoning from raw fish?
Eating raw fish like sushi and sashimi has never been more popular, whether that’s in restaurants or on supermarket shelves. The good news is that such dishes are rich in fatty acids and vitamins from the A, D, and E groups, which brings a host of health benefits. But on the flipside, they can also be sources of contamination.
It’s mostly down to improper handling and storage at seafood markets, or cross-contamination. Some fish caught from polluted waters may contain toxins. It’s important to know that raw fish can carry parasites.
What kind of contamination? What are the parasites that can contaminate fish? How can I avoid getting contaminated? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we get nightmares?
Has the climate breakdown really begun?
What is a frenemy?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
Should you be reducing salt in your diet?
Salt is a common ingredient in many foods, and it’s essential for our health. Salt is made up of sodium and chloride, two minerals that help regulate fluid balance, blood pressure, nerve and muscle function.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), adults should consume less than 5 grams of salt per day, which is equivalent to about one teaspoon. However, most people eat more than that.
But how much salt do we need, and how much do we actually consume? What happens if we eat too much salt? Does that mean we should avoid salt altogether? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we get nightmares?
Has the climate breakdown really begun?
What is a frenemy?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What is shrinkflation, the sneaky tactic manufacturers are hiding from consumers?
Marketing technique shrinkflation is becoming more and more common in large retail stores, in particular down to the ongoing war in Ukraine. It sees manufacturers quietly reducing the size of their products, but maintaining prices at the same level. Shrinkflation is often a result of an increase in raw material prices and other production costs, but is seen as a form of hidden inflation and has been heavily criticised in many places. In the context of the current cost of living crisis, it’s definitely a sensitive subject. According to Merriam Webster, the portmanteau term was coined by British economist Pippa Malmgren in a tweet back in 2015.
Do you have any specific examples? Is shrinkflation illegal? As a consumer, how can I avoid falling victim to shrinkflation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
Could Male Polish be the next big thing in men’s fashion?
Why are there so many spin offs in the world of cinema?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast : 30/06/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
Why do we get nightmares?
According to the American Academy of Sleep medicine, 50% to 85% of adults experience occasional nightmares, with 2% to 8% of people having nightmares that cause sleep problems.
No one likes having nightmares, do they? These vivid, distressing bad dreams often cause us to jolt awake, heart pounding, in fear or anxiety. They can feature threatening scenarios, monsters, or deeply unsettling experiences.
How exactly do nightmares work? What is the purpose of nightmares? What should you do when nightmares become recurring? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is a frenemy?
Which colours go well together according to science?
Why is sitting with your legs crossed bad?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
Has the climate breakdown really begun?
On September 6th, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres released a 96-word statement in which he referred to “climate breakdown” having begun. It was in response to a report from the World Meteorological Organization, which highlighted the impact of record-breaking heatwaves across the globe this summer.
June, July, and August 2023 are the hottest three-month period ever recorded. The WMO says that the increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves we’re experiencing are causing air quality to decline, impacting human health.
What’s the definition of “climate breakdown”? Was this summer expected to be so hot? Is there any way back? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is a frenemy?
Which colours go well together according to science?
Why is sitting with your legs crossed bad?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What is a frenemy?
A frenemy is a person who is both a friend and an enemy. In fact the term is a blend of the words “friend” and “enemy”, and it was first used in print by the American journalist Walter Winchell in 1953. Although Jessica Mitford, of the infamous Mitford sisters also claimed in 1977 that the word was invented by one of her sisters: "... an incredibly useful word…coined by one of my sisters when she was a small child to describe a rather dull little girl who lived near us. My sister and the frenemy played together constantly…all the time disliking each other heartily." Essentially a frenemy is someone who acts friendly or supportive, but also undermines, competes with, or betrays you.
So how can you tell if someone is a frenemy? How can you deal with a frenemy?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How do I know when to end a friendship?
What is social jet lag?
Are cold showers good for you?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
Is cracking my knuckles bad for me?
If you’re asking yourself whether cracking your knuckles is a bad thing, we'll take it as a given that you do crack your knuckles. You’ve probably also been told at some point that doing so will give you arthritis, most likely by someone already annoyed at you doing it!
So, just how seriously should you be taking the know-it-alls? As you’re probably aware, many people find the noise pretty off-putting, or just downright annoying. But many people say they get a physical release from cracking their joints, leading to a feeling of looseness and a brief increase in mobility. Although a lot of the time, it’s simply an unconscious habit.
Why is knuckle cracking so satisfying? Where does the noise come from? Is it harmful in the long run? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What can we expect from Lula’s presidency in Brazil?
How did Guy Fawks become more than just a bonfire effigy?
What is sapiosexuality?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast : 06/11/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
Which colours go well together according to science?
It's often said that colour preferences are simply a matter of personal taste, but actually some have been backed up by science, especially in the field of art history. For the last two centuries, it has been customary in art and design to come up with colour combinations based on what is known the colour wheel.
It’s a visual representation of the spectrum of colors, organized in a circular format. This wheel divides colours into primary: red, blue, and yellow, secondary: green, orange, and purple, and tertiary colors, creating a harmonious spectrum.
But what is it? Where does it come from? What’s the point of it?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How do I know when to end a friendship?
What is social jet lag?
Are cold showers good for you?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/11/2023 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
Why is sitting with your legs crossed bad?
When sitting, some of us cross our legs at the knee, while others do so at the ankle. According to a study published in Neuropsychologia in 1994, 62% of people cross their right leg over the left, 26% do the opposite, and 12% have no preference.
Sitting with your legs crossed can be comfortable as it helps relieve weight on the buttocks and reduces excessive arching of the back. Doing it occasionally won’t lead to a medical emergency, but it can actually be a relatively harmful habit.
Which areas are affected? What's the impact on blood circulation? Should I stop crossing my legs altogether then?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How do I know when to end a friendship?
What is social jet lag?
Are cold showers good for you?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/10/2023 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
Why does walking through doorways make us forget things?
Have you ever walked into your living room, kitchen or bedroom and completely forgotten what you went there for? It can be pretty annoying, and a little unsettling too. You might start wondering if you’ve got memory problems.
This mental block phenomenon actually has a name: the doorway effect. It happens to most people from time to time. Through a series of studies run by Gabriel Radvansky and his colleagues at the University of Notre Dame in the USA, the doorway effect has been proved scientifically. The findings were published in the Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology in 2011.
Has it been studied by researchers? So what’s actually going on in the brain at that specific moment? Should I be worried if it happens to me? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
First broadcast : 27 janvier 2023
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Will ChatGPT replace Google?
What is the loverboy method Andrew Tate is accused of using?
Should I buy an electric car?
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/10/2023 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
Why do I get an electric shock when I kiss someone?
It's not uncommon for sparks to fly in unexpected ways during intimate moments; sometimes literally! You’ve most likely gone in to kiss someone only to get a small shock when your lips touch.
You may have also noticed it tends to happen more often in winter. Have you ever wondered what actually causes these jolts of electricity between couples? Let’s unravel the science behind the mystery.
Isn’t it all to do with having good chemistry? How does static electricity work? What’s the impact on our body?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How do I know when to end a friendship?
What is social jet lag?
Are cold showers good for you?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/9/2023 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
What is the best way to soothe a crying baby?
Getting babies to sleep is big business, and a major source of stress for parents. There are many theories and methods: rock them, sing, let them cry it out. But now science has come to the rescue and we can finally put this question to bed. Hopefully.
According to a study published in September 2022 in Current Biology, “approximately 20%–30% of infants cry excessively and exhibit sleep difficulties for no apparent reason” which of course can be exhausting for most people but can become more serious in some cases. As the study points out, it causes “parental stress and even triggering impulsive child maltreatment in a small number of cases.” So finding a way to sooth babies is important.
What did the scientists discover? How did they come to these conclusions? So how do you get the baby to sleep? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who are the main victims of natural disasters?
What is Ulysses Syndrome?
What is the Koh-i-noor diamond and why is it causing so many problems for the Queen consort?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First broadcast : 10/11/2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
How do I know when to end a friendship?
Friendship is often said to be eternal, to withstand the test of time and distance. We expect friends to accept everything about us, but it's not always that simple. Just like any relationship, they can become complicated and sometimes toxic.
Not all friendships are always worth keeping, and certain signs can indicate when one is nearing its end. Friendships should be a source of joy, support, and personal growth. In a healthy friendship, both parties feel valued and respected.
What does constitute a healthy friendship? Are there certain criteria that give away when a friendship is dysfunctional? What should I do if I realise a friendship is complicated and leaving me drained?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is social jet lag?
Are cold showers good for you?
What is ‘Girl Dinner’?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What is social jet lag?
You’ve probably heard of jetlag, the feeling of fatigue and disorientation that occurs when you travel across different time zones, but did you know that you can experience a similar phenomenon without leaving your home?
It’s called social jetlag and is caused by changing your sleep patterns. It happens when you change your sleep schedule on the weekends to fit your social life.
Why is social jetlag a problem? How can you avoid social jetlag? How to create a regular sleep schedule? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Are cold showers good for you?
What is ‘Girl Dinner’?
What benefits can we get from journaling?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
What should I eat before going to bed?
No doubt you’ve realised that some types of food have a boosting effect, like eggs, oats and avocado for example. That’s because they contain tyrosine, an amino acid which is a precursor to dopamine, making them an ideal breakfast option. At the other end of the scale, some foods are better suited for preparing our bodies to go to sleep, by bringing on certain chemical reactions.
In terms of what not to do, it’s most important not to eat anything too rich, not to eat meals that are too large, and not to eat too close to bedtime. You should aim to e nd dinner at least two hours before going to bed. That’s to limit any potential nighttime discomfort from indigestion or heartburn. On top of that, our body temperature needs to drop when we go to sleep, but digestion does the exact opposite.
So what are the better options available to us then? Why is the role of amino acids so important? What about simply skipping dinner; does that work? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with Upday UK.
First broadcast: 07/01/2023
To listen to more episodes, click here:
What benefits can we get from journaling?
What is the two-day rule?
How can I regain energy quickly?
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
Are cold showers good for you?
Even during the summer, the mere idea of taking an ice cold shower may well be enough to give you the shivers. After all, the soothing feeling of warm water running over skin is what most people prefer.
But a lot of social media content creators claim to have reaped health benefits from taking cold showers. They tend to talk about blood circulation, skin quality and the immune system. So do their claims have any basis in fact or are they just seeking attention?
What’s the impact on blood circulation? It's also said that cold showers are good for mental health, is that true? Can cold showers be harmful to the body? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is ‘Girl Dinner’?
What benefits can we get from journaling?
What is the two-day rule?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
Where does the myth of the Loch Ness Monster come from?
Affectionately known as Nessie, the mythical Loch Ness Monster has been a source of fascination and terror for many centuries. Many sightings have been reported over the years, but no conclusive evidence of its existence has ever been unearthed.
Still, there are many believers out there. In late August 2023, the largest Nessie hunt in 50 years took place, organised by the local Loch Ness Exploration research group and bringing together nearly 200 people from places as far afield as Australia, Japan and the USA.
Where does belief in the Loch Ness Monster come from? Why are people still searching for Nessie to this day? Is there any possibility the monster could exist? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is ‘Girl Dinner’?
What benefits can we get from journaling?
What is the two-day rule?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
What is ‘Girl Dinner’?
Girl Dinner is a TikTok phenomena though you would be hard pressed to find any recipes as it is more of a style of eating than anything specific.
It’s a term used to describe a meal that consists of random snacks or leftovers, for example, you might have some cheese and crackers, a handful of grapes, a glass of wine and a few pickles for your ‘girl dinner’. Or maybe you just have some popcorn and a diet soda. Or maybe you just go to bed without eating anything at all. That’s also girl dinner.
Where did the term come from? Is girl dinner good or bad for you? What does girl dinner say about our society? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What benefits can we get from journaling?
What is the two-day rule?
How can I regain energy quickly?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
What is fatphobia?
Being overweight is a stigma. While around 13% of the world’s population are obese, they are largely absent from the public limelight and often find themselves the target of mockery or discrimination. Overweight people are humiliated and ostracised throughout their lives, having to put up with regular criticisms about their lifestyle and appearance. This is what’s known as fatphobia, a form of discrimination which can have a harmful effect on those on the receiving end. Fatphobia is often left out of discussions on the struggle against different forms of discrimination.
But why are overweight people rejected to such an extent? But whose side are social media on? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen the last episodes, you can click here:
What is a micro adventure?
What is an eco-friendly beach?
What is Blackface?
First broadcast: 01/08/2020
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
What benefits can we get from journaling?
According to a 2016 WHO study, 25% of the global population is likely to develop a mental disorder during their lifetime. But of course there are certain habits that we can adopt to diminish that risk, or treat the situation.
These include getting counselling, regular physical activity and a proper sleep routine. Another beneficial habit is journaling, or "therapeutic writing”, as it’s also known. A Cambridge University study published in 2018 found that expressive writing about traumatic events increased physical and psychological well-being.
What are the benefits? How can I get started? Which famous people are known to journal? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I regain energy quickly?
What is 'Tomato Girl summer'?
What are energy vampires?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
What is the two-day rule?
After enjoying a period of relaxation during the summer, many of us return to studies or work with a desire to develop good habits and a better routine than the previous year.
It might be taking up a new sport, cooking healthy meals instead of ordering in or going to bed earlier for example. Just like with New Year’s resolutions, we often stick to them to start with, but let them slip after a few weeks. Today we’re going to talk about a method which may well help you stay on track: the two-day rule.
Is it really possible to adopt a good habit in just two days? How long does it take to establish a habit? Are there other tips for forming good habits? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I regain energy quickly?
What is 'Tomato Girl summer'?
What are energy vampires?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
What is Burning Man, the mysterious desert gathering?
From 27th August to 4th September 2023, Burning Man is set to return to the Black Rock Desert in Nevada for the first time since 2019, with an authorised population of 87,000 people.
This event sees artists, creators and community-makers gather to celebrate self-expression. Every August, a temporary real city is set up to accommodate the festival. It actually becomes one of the most populated cities in Nevada during the event. Festivities end with a huge bonfire, where a large wooden effigy is burned, hence the name.
How did the event come to be? What happens during the event? Why is there a Burning Man? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : August 27th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Are women really more emotional than men?
Why are celebrities dissolving their facial fillers?
What is the Smurfette Principle?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
How can I cope with post holiday blues?
We've all been there, haven't we? That moment when a holiday comes to a close and the reality of everyday life sets in. The post-holiday blues, that feeling of melancholy after returning from a relaxing escape, can cast a shadow on our moods.
According to a 2017 articles from Mirror.co.uk, 57% of Brits are affected. Many of you may be experiencing these blues right now, so today we’re exploring just how to beat the slump. Post-holiday blues might be an unwelcome visitor, but they don't have to overstay their welcome.
What actually causes post-holiday blues? What can I do to get through this transition more easily? What are the tips? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I regain energy quickly?
What is 'Tomato Girl summer'?
What are energy vampires?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
Do I really need to flush toxins out of my body?
There are an increasing number of trends and products out there to rid your body of toxins, such as infrared saunas, liver-purifying supplements and detox diets. But what exactly are toxins?
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, a toxin is “a poisonous substance, especially one produced by bacteria, that causes disease.” However, today we tend to use the word toxin to refer to all the harmful substances present in the body such as food additives, pesticides, alcohol, gluten or pollutants. It’s actually kind of misleading, because not all toxins are as bad as one might think. That’s especially true when you consider that our bodies are capable of flushing out toxins on their own, without the need for any fancy treatments or supplements.
Which organs in the body are responsible for eliminating toxins? People say that you have to sweat to flush out toxins… is that true? Are we saying there’s no need to flush toxins out after all? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : September 10th, 2022
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Are women really more emotional than men?
Why are celebrities dissolving their facial fillers?
What is the Smurfette Principle?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
How can I regain energy quickly?
As the summer holiday season draws to a close, ask yourself this. Did you manage to get as much rest as you would have liked? A lot of people out there would say no. Perhaps their holiday wasn’t actually restful at all, or they didn’t even get a chance to go away.
American internal medicine physician Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith has dedicated a lot of research towards the issue of chronic fatigue. In 2017, she released a book entitled “Sacred Rest”, which would go on to be a bestseller. She asserted that there are seven different types of rest that we need to fully recharge our batteries.
What are the seven different types of rest? What are the tips to remember? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is 'Tomato Girl summer'?
What are energy vampires?
What is the sexist Bodycount trend on Tiktok?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
What is 'Tomato Girl summer'?
You might have seen this term on TikTok, Instagram or Pinterest, but do you really know what it means? ‘A Tomato Girl Summer’ is a retro trend inspired by Mediterranean living rather than actual tomatoes.
It's about projecting the style and lifestyle of the region, wearing clothes that are comfortable and colourful, eating fresh and seasonal food, exploring new places, and having fun.
What is the inspiration for this trend? How can I get the Tomato Girl look? What is Potato Girl Summer? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is Buccal Fat Removal?
What is cybersickness, the mysterious condition linked to screen use?
What is the Golem effect ?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/31/2023 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
Could "mouth taping" really help me sleep better?
Mouth taping involves putting tape over your mouth. It's supposed to improve your sleep by forcing you to breathe through your nose rather than your mouth.
Regular listeners will be aware that we’ve discussed a number of Tiktok trends on this podcast. Not long ago, we covered the Blackout challenge after it led to the tragic deaths of a number of young children. As of yet the mouth taping trend we’re talking about today thankfully hasn’t claimed any victims, at least as far as our web searches tell us. But it’s nevertheless causing concern, with experts warning it’s highly dangerous.
OK, what does mouth taping involve then? Why is it dangerous then? Are there other options for better nighttime breathing? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Are women really more emotional than men?
Why are celebrities dissolving their facial fillers?
What is the Smurfette Principle?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/31/2023 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
What is the sexist Bodycount trend on Tiktok?
If you use Tiktok, you may well have come across videos of young content creators stopping passers by to ask them the following simple question: what’s your bodycount?
Now thankfully we’re not talking about serial killers, but the real meaning of the question is hardly cause for celebration either. In this context, it actually means the number of sexual partners a person has had, whether that’s in their lifetime or in a specific period.
What’s sexist about it? What about sex positivity? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is Buccal Fat Removal?
What is cybersickness, the mysterious condition linked to screen use?
What is the Golem effect ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What are energy vampires?
Have you ever noticed how certain people just seem to drain your emotional energy any time you see or speak to them? It could be a work colleague, a friend, a neighbour or even your partner.
Maybe you’ve shrugged it off, telling yourself that’s just how that person is and that they need to lean on you for support. The chances are you could be dealing with an energy vampire without knowing.
What do energy vampires feed on? How do energy vampire relationships start? How can you protect yourself from energy vampires then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is Buccal Fat Removal?
What is cybersickness, the mysterious condition linked to screen use?
What is the Golem effect ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal is a type of plastic surgery that involves removing the buccal fat pads from your cheeks. These are rounded pads of fat that are located between your facial muscles, in the hollow area beneath your cheekbones. Their size affects your face shape; the larger they are the rounder or fuller your face appears.
Why has it become more popular recently? How is the procedure done? What are the risks with this procedure? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is cybersickness, the mysterious condition linked to screen use?
What is the Golem effect ?
Which five foods slow ageing?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/29/2023 • 4 minutes
Is oversleeping bad for you?
You’re no doubt familiar with what it feels like to be extremely tired after a long sleep. It’s a little like a hangover really: sluggishness, irritability, perhaps a slight headache too. And there’s actually a term for these sensations: sleep drunkenness.
According to the Sleep Foundation, the average adult needs between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night. But optimal sleep duration is unique for each of us. It can vary due to factors like genetics, age and lifestyle habits.
Does oversleeping have any health consequences? What can we do to get back into a healthy sleep routine? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : April 23th, 2023
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Are women really more emotional than men?
Why are celebrities dissolving their facial fillers?
What is the Smurfette Principle?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/29/2023 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What is cybersickness, the mysterious condition linked to screen use?
You may well have experienced motion sickness or travel sickness in the past. Well, cyber sickness is a modern ailment that follows a similar kind of logic, or rather the opposite logic. Instead of moving while feeling still, like when you’re on a boat or in a car, with cyber sickness you perceive movement while you’re actually still.
But the result is the same: your brain fails to adapt to this dissonance, and hence brings on nausea, dizziness, cold sweats, and other balance disorders. This can happen when using a computer, smartphone, or virtual reality headset.
What's the similarity with motion sickness ? Why doesn’t it affect all of us then? What can I do if I start feeling unwell in front of my laptop or smartphone screen then?In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Are women really more emotional than men?
Why are celebrities dissolving their facial fillers?
What is the Smurfette Principle?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
What is the Golem effect ?
Not long ago we talked about the Pygmalion effect in an episode of Do You Really Know? Well today’s subject is pretty much the exact opposite! The Golem effect is the idea that negative words or assumptions can influence behaviours and transform those assumptions into reality. It’s another type of self-fulfilling prophecy, which sees lower expectations lead to poorer performance and behaviour in individuals.
And just like the Pygmalion effect, the term was also coined by Robert Rosenthal, this time in a 1982 paper after having conducted research along with Elisha Babad and Jacob Inbar. The name comes from Jewish folklore, and more specifically the tale of the Golem of Prague.
What are the main areas in which the Golem effect can be observed ? What about in relationships?How can we overcome the Golem effect? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Are women really more emotional than men?
Why are celebrities dissolving their facial fillers?
What is the Smurfette Principle?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/27/2023 • 5 minutes, 2 seconds
Is swallowing chewing gum dangerous?
According to Retaildata.co.uk, us Brits are the second biggest consumers of gum in the world. On average, Brits use between 120 and 130 sticks each every year! Now despite that, many people don’t really know what chewing gum is actually made up of.
We know that the minty freshness helps with bad breath and that maybe there’s some connection to oral hygiene, but that’s about it. Oh and of course we’ve heard that terrible things can happen if you swallow chewing gum. You could get appendicitis, the gum could stay stuck in your stomach for years, blocking your intestines. So, are they old wives’ tales or should you really be afraid?
What’s actually in chewing gum then? Are there any health risks associated with chewing gum? What about if you accidentally swallow a piece of gum then?
Date of first release : April 23th, 2023
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is negging, the toxic flirting technique?
Could the Pomodoro technique help me work better?
How can I reduce damp and mould in your home?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
Which five foods slow ageing?
Ageing is part of the natural cycle of life, and there’s no such thing as a miracle pill to prevent it. At least not yet ! Nevertheless, it is still possible to delay the effects of this process through a healthy lifestyle and good nutrition.
No doubt you’ve already heard of the benefits of regular physical activity, getting enough sleep and giving up cigarettes or alcohol. But generally speaking, you should prioritise foods that are rich in antioxidants. The term "antioxidants" includes certain vitamins, trace elements, and micronutrients found in large quantities in fruit and vegetables, for example.
What foods should we be focusing on ? Where can you find antioxidants in abundance ? What about drinks? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Are women really more emotional than men?
Why are celebrities dissolving their facial fillers?
What is the Smurfette Principle?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
Would you be more likely to go to work if you could bring in your pet?
If you are a pet owner you know how hard it can be to leave your furry friend at home when you go to work. You may worry about their wellbeing, feel guilty for not spending enough time with them or miss their companionship.
According to a BBC article, more than 3 million people in the UK have taken on a pet since the start of the pandemic. Many of them have enjoyed working from home with their furry companions and are reluctant to leave them behind when they return to the office.
What are the advantages of bringing pets to work? What are the disadvantages? So, would you be more likely to go to work if you bring your pet? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : April 14th, 2023
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is negging, the toxic flirting technique?
Could the Pomodoro technique help me work better?
How can I reduce damp and mould in your home?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
Are women really more emotional than men?
"Irrational”, “overdramatic”, “hysterical”, “sensitive” - if you’re a woman you have most likely been described using one of these words or similar in the past. That’s because there’s a common belief that women are more emotional than men, which still persists to this day.
It can sometimes be framed in a positive way, saying that women show more empathy. But all too often it’s used as a weapon to dismiss what a woman is saying.
Is there any scientific basis to such assumptions? What were the results then? How so? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is negging, the toxic flirting technique?
Could the Pomodoro technique help me work better?
How can I reduce damp and mould in your home?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
Why are celebrities dissolving their facial fillers?
You’ve probably seen the photos of stars like Courteney Cox or Simon Cowell, who have recently revealed a more natural look after removing their facial fillers or perhaps are one of Kylie Jenner’s 381 million followers and saw that she had recently dissolved her lip filler. But what prompted this change?
Fillers are injectable substances that are used to plump up areas of the face that have lost volume due to aging, weight loss, or other factors. They can also be used to enhance features like lips, cheeks, or jawlines.
What are cosmetic fillers? Why are celebrities dissolving their fillers? But do fillers ever fully dissolve? How do you dissolve fillers? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I recognise a narcissistic pervert?
What is a man child?
How to interact with ChatGPT?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
What is the Smurfette Principle?
Does that ring a bell? How many of you spent hours in front of the Smurfs as children? We’re sure you remember the smiley little girl with blond hair, a white dress and high heels.
In case your memory has faded, in the wonderful world of the Smurfs, Smurfette is created by the evil wizard Gargamel to sow discord! How curious that the role of agitator is reserved for a female character... Add to that the fact that the Smurfville population is exclusively male, until the arrival of the lone Smurfette. That’s where the idea of the Smurfette Principle comes from. It’s mainly to do with the overrepresentation of male figures as protagonists in works of fiction, to the detriment of female characters.
How can you base a whole theory on a single cartoon? What’s wrong with that? It’s fiction after all and fiction can write its own rules, can’t it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : June 12th, 2021
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is negging, the toxic flirting technique?
Could the Pomodoro technique help me work better?
How can I reduce damp and mould in your home?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
How can I recognise a narcissistic pervert?
The concept of the narcissistic pervert has invaded our screens and magazines in recent years. It's used a lot, but sometimes wrongly or without full understanding.
So what is it really about? The term was first defined in 1986 by French psychoanalyst Paul-Claude Racamier. He said that narcissistic perverts have a prevailing need to boost their own self-esteem at the expense of others, and actually take pleasure from doing so.
What actually is a narcissistic pervert? Aren't we all a little like that? What makes narcissistic perverts different? Are narcissistic perverts dangerous to be around? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How to interact with ChatGPT?
What is negging, the toxic flirting technique?
Could the Pomodoro technique help me work better?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 56 seconds
What is a man child?
No doubt you’ve heard at some point in your life that girls are more mature than boys. As a result, we tend to forgive childlike behaviour in men more easily, even in adulthood. Living with immature men can be a struggle for their partners.
What’s more, Peter Pan syndrome is sometimes used as justification for behaviour that’s difficult to live with. You may remember that we discussed the topic in a previous episode of Do You Really Know. And another term for someone who displays Peter Pan Syndrome is a man child!
What are the main characteristics of men children? Does it get better with time at least? What can you do to avoid this behaviour? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How to interact with ChatGPT?
What is negging, the toxic flirting technique?
Could the Pomodoro technique help me work better?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
How to interact with ChatGPT?
ChatGPT is a computer program from a company called OpenAI. It along with other forms of AI are changing the way we communicate, create, and learn.
They can help us with various tasks, such as writing emails, coding, designing presentations, and much more. However, to use AI effectively, we need to know how to interact with it.
How to use prompts? What are the factors you have to consider? What are the problems with ChatGPT? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is negging, the toxic flirting technique?
Could the Pomodoro technique help me work better?
Why do I attract mosquitoes more than other people?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
What is citizen science, the concept opening up research to the general public ?
Also known as community science, citizen science is the active participation of amateurs or non-professional scientists in research.
In recent years, it’s grown in a number of fields, becoming bigger and more networked thanks to new technologies and connectivity. It’s a link between professional researchers and volunteers who are interested in science and want to help it progress.
Why would we want civilians doing important scientific research? Who are these amateur scientists? Which fields in particular are involved? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : July 12th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is negging, the toxic flirting technique?
Could the Pomodoro technique help me work better?
How can I reduce damp and mould in your home?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/22/2023 • 5 minutes, 19 seconds
What is negging, the toxic flirting technique?
Right from primary school age, we tell children that if another boy or girl has teased them, it’s “because they like them”. And playful teasing happens a lot in dating well into adulthood.
If it’s ever happened to you, you might have laughed along out of fear of appearing oversensitive. But really it’s a form of verbal abuse, which is often used intentionally to manipulate another person’s emotions, undermining their self-esteem.
Where does the name come from? What kind of things do neggers say? How do I know if someone is negging me? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the Pygmalion effect?
What are the alternatives to air conditioning?
What is misogynoir?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
Could the Pomodoro technique help me work better?
Do you ever feel like time is slipping through your fingers? That you had several hours to complete one or two simple tasks, but you didn't notice the clock ticking away? The problem might stem from poor time management or a tendency to procrastinate.
It could also result from an inability to isolate yourself from sources of distraction. Let’s delve into a productivity strategy that could potentially revolutionise the way you work: the Pomodoro technique.
Where does the name come from? How does the Pomodoro method actually work? Why is it so effective? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the Pygmalion effect?
What are the alternatives to air conditioning?
What is misogynoir?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 56 seconds
How can I reduce damp and mould in your home?
According to Dr Yasemin Didem Aktas, deputy academic director of the UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings (UKCMB), “Mould is everywhere, all the time,” this is because the UK is a pretty wet country and so some level of mould, particularly in damp places like bathrooms or windows is to be expected.
However it is how we manage the mould and prevent it building up into dangerous levels that is important. If you notice patches of mould on walls or ceilings then it's time to do something to stop spores spreading in the air.
When is there too much? Why is mould bad for your health? How can I treat mould? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is a faecal transplant?
What is BookTok?
What is the romance gap?
Date of first release : March 14th, 2023
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
Why do I attract mosquitoes more than other people?
Warm summer nights often bring unwelcome guests into our homes in the form of mosquitoes. For now we fortunately don’t have any mosquito-borne diseases being transmitted to humans in the UK, but with the warmer temperatures brought on by climate change, it may only be a matter of time until that changes.
You may have noticed that some of us seem to attract more mosquito bites than others, even within the same household or having been at the same gathering. A popular belief is that mosquitoes have a preference for certain types of skin, because they find them sweeter.
Is skin ‘sweetness’ really the most important factor? What does CO2 have to do with it? Does my choice of clothing make any difference? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the Pygmalion effect?
What are the alternatives to air conditioning?
What is misogynoir?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
How does "death cleaning" help you declutter your life?
Back in 2010, Japanese writer Mari Kondo changed how we think about organisation and decluttering with her bestseller The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up. Behind the book’s grand title is a simple premise: anything that doesn’t bring you joy should be thrown away.
Since then, a new and somewhat similar trend caught on in the late 2010s: death cleaning. It’s mainly designed for people entering the final stages of their life, and making sure they don’t overboard before passing away. People started talking about death cleaning in 2018, when Stockholm-based artist and widow Margareta Magnusson published a book called The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning. Since then, the trend has started catching on. The name comes from the Swedish döstädning: a combination of the word “dö”, which means death, and “standing”, which means cleaning.
How did Magnusson come up with the term? Where does death cleaning fit in alongside other minimalist trends? From what age do people start death cleaning? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is a faecal transplant?
What is BookTok?
What is the romance gap?
Date of first release : August 12th, 2022
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What is the Pygmalion effect?
Have you ever wondered how our expectations can impact the way we perceive and interact with others? Well, it’s actually been demonstrated that beliefs and attitudes can lead to outcomes that align with those beliefs, due to what’s known as the Pygmalion effect.
20th century American psychologist Robert Rosenthal coined the term in 1968. He had teamed up with San Francisco elementary school principal Lenore Jacobson to conduct a groundbreaking experiment. It showed that teacher behaviour and attitude could actually influence their students' achievements.
Where does the name come from? What did Rosenthal and Jacobson’s experiment consist of? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What are the alternatives to air conditioning?
What is misogynoir?
Can I reuse sunscreen from one year to the next?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
What are the alternatives to air conditioning?
As summers get hotter, more and more people are turning to air conditioning to cool down buildings and vehicles. Not only does it make us more comfortable and productive, and can also save lives; after all, in the US, extreme heat is the single deadliest form of extreme weather.
But air conditioning has some drawbacks, such as high energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and indoor air pollution. Air conditioning can also make us less tolerant of heat.
Who has access to air conditioning? What are the impacts of air conditioning on the environment? What are some alternatives to air conditioning? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is misogynoir?
Can I reuse sunscreen from one year to the next?
How to discard emotional baggage?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/17/2023 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
Can going braless be good for you?
Research released in 2021 by Censuswide for Tu found that nearly 46% of women ditched nearly 46% of women ditched their bras at least once a week during Covid-19 lockdowns in the name of comfort.
And it seems the trend may be lasting despite the worst of Covid hopefully being behind us. We’ve recently seen A-Listers like Dua Lipa, Kirsten Stewart and Lily Allen go braless in public, with the Daily Mail referring to “the great underwear-free revolution that started during lockdown”.
What is the point of bras? Why would there be an “underwear-free revolution” if bras have all these benefits? Should women ditch the bras? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is a faecal transplant?
What is BookTok?
How can I relax my brain while on holiday?
Date of first release : August 15th, 2022
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/17/2023 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
What is misogynoir?
You may remember that we discussed the idea of intersectionality in a previous episode of Do You Really Know?. The term describes how characteristics like race, class, gender, sexual orientation and physical ability “intersect” when it comes to social discrimination.
Well, today we’re going to talk about a more recent term for the unique type of discrimination that black women face: misogynoir. Just last month, British charity Glitch released its “Digital Misogynoir Report”, which was based on analysis of close to 1 million text-based messages about women posted on social media.
Where does the term misogynoir come from? How does misogynoir manifest? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do people consider the number seven lucky?
What's the best way to organise my fridge?
How can I recognise a flying monkey, the narcissistic abuser’s best friend?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
Can I reuse sunscreen from one year to the next?
Sunscreen is essential when on holiday, and in the summer in general. But it doesn’t come cheap, and often the contents aren’t fully used by the time the holiday is over. It’s tempting to reuse bottles from one year to the next, to save money and reduce waste.
What many people don’t know though is whether sunscreen remains effective once it’s been opened, or whether using an out-of-date product is dangerous.
How can I tell if my sunscreen has expired? What are the risks of using out-of-date sunscreen? What steps should I take to stay safe? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do people consider the number seven lucky?
What's the best way to organise my fridge?
How can I recognise a flying monkey, the narcissistic abuser’s best friend?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
How to discard emotional baggage?
Emotional baggage is a term we use to describe the unresolved issues, stress, pain, and difficulties that we carry around from our past experiences. It can weigh us down, affect our relationships, and even prevent us from achieving our goals. Here are some tips on how to let go and move on.
One way is to shift our thinking. If we struggle with regret, guilt, or resentment because of our past, we may need to change our perspective and focus on the positive aspects of our life.
How can we change our thinking? How can we confront our emotional baggage? How can we live in the present? How can we surround ourselves with supportive people? How can we practice self-compassion? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do people consider the number seven lucky?
What's the best way to organise my fridge?
How can I recognise a flying monkey, the narcissistic abuser’s best friend?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 1 second
Is remote work here to stay?
COVID-19 lockdowns led to the revolutionary rise of remote work. But while working remotely may have been a necessary adaptation made during an unprecedented global health crisis, many experts say that not only is remote work here to stay, it will even continue to increase as we head into 2023.
Employees save time and money by not having to commute, and they essentially have more control over their work environment, which can lead to increased creativity. With jobs becoming less location-specific, businesses can also benefit, one example being that they have a larger pool of talent to hire from.
What are the main benefits? Is going fully remote the best work model? What can we expect remote work to look like in the future? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I relax my brain while on holiday?
What is the romance gap?
What is a ‘lazy girl’ job?
Date of first release : August 20th, 2022
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
Why do people consider the number seven lucky?
Back in 2015, 10,000 participants at Newcastle University’s Numbers Festival were asked what their favourite number was. Perhaps unsurprisingly, 12.6% of them answered the number seven, making it the most popular number of them all.
Some said they didn't know why they chose seven, but as you know, the number tends to have positive connotations and is associated with luck in particular. That’s especially true in Western societies.
How far back does the legend of lucky number seven go? How has the concept of luck contributed to the number seven's prominence? Are there any scientific or logical reasons behind the number seven's lucky reputation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why is the celibacy movement attracting young people?
What is a faecal transplant?
How can I relax my brain while on holiday?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
What's the best way to organise my fridge?
Arranging your fridge isn't just a way to save space. It's primarily about ensuring optimal preservation of food products and thus preventing the proliferation of bacteria. According to UK Research and Innovation, there are around 2.4 million cases of foodborne illness in the country every year.
First and foremost, it's important to know that fridges with ventilated or circulated cold air have a more consistent temperature than those with static cold air. In the latter case, the temperature varies based on the distance from the cold source, so you should start by identifying the coldest area of your fridge.
What should be stored in the coldest part? Should packaging be removed? How should you be cleaning your fridge? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why is the celibacy movement attracting young people?
What is a faecal transplant?
How can I relax my brain while on holiday?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What are five foods that make us happy?
When you’re feeling a little blue, eating to feel better can be an appealing proposition. But the reality is we often turn to junk food or sugary treats that are high in calories and packed with salt or saturated fats.
Of course, our mood can be impacted by a number of factors and there’s no magic fix that will instantly make us feel better. But there are actually types of food out there that have been proven to improve brain health and thereby beat mood disorders.
Which foods are proven to improve brain health? Avocados are rich in Omega 3, aren’t they? Don’t bananas also contain tryptophan? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I relax my brain while on holiday?
What is the romance gap?
What is a ‘lazy girl’ job?
Date of first release : March 20th, 2023
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
How can I recognise a flying monkey, the narcissistic abuser’s best friend?
We’ve already talked about narcissistic abusers in a previous episode of Do You Really Know? Let’s refresh your memory: narcissistic abusers, or NAs for short, are people with manipulative tendencies, who inflict a range of toxic behaviours on their target and position themselves as victims.
Now NA-victim relationships don’t always exist solely between two individuals. There can be one or more additional figures in this dynamic – that of the accomplice. And the accomplices of NAs are actually known as Flying Monkeys.
Where does this term come from? How do NAs choose their flying monkeys? What strategies can you use to handle flying monkeys effectively? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why is the celibacy movement attracting young people?
What is a faecal transplant?
How can I relax my brain while on holiday?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
What is Dawson’s Creek?
If you were born in the 80s or 90s, the chances are you could be answering this question instead of me! Dawson’s Creek was a huge cult hit among millennials. It was pretty much the ultimate 90s teen series.It tells the lives of Dawson, Jen, Pacey and Joey, four teens living in the fictional town of Capeside.
They were played by James Vanderbeck, Michelle Williams, Joshua Jackson and Katie Holmes respectively. The main character is Dawson, hence the name of the series, and his dream is to make it as a cinema director or scriptwriter. Both Joey and Jen are Dawson’s childhood friends, but Jen has only just reacquainted with him after moving to Cape Side from New York.
Why is it such a cult hit? What happened to all the lead actors afterwards? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I relax my brain while on holiday?
What is the romance gap?
What is a ‘lazy girl’ job?
Date of first release : May 16th, 2022
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
Why is the celibacy movement attracting young people?
Young people have much less of an appetite for sex these days, it seems. The phenomenon has been labelled a “sex recession” in the media and terms like “puriteens” have emerged to describe sex-shy youngsters.
Studies have backed up the idea of a sex recession too. One published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior journal in November 2021 found that the proportion of adolescents reporting no sexual activity is on the rise.
What factors explain the celibacy trend? Sex positivity seemed to be all the rage these days, what happened to that? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is a faecal transplant?
How can I relax my brain while on holiday?
What is a ‘lazy girl’ job?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/11/2023 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
What is a faecal transplant?
Faecal transplant, also known as faecal microbiota transplantation or FMT, is the transfer of stool from a healthy donor to a patient with a disease.
The idea is to restore the balance of bacteria in the gut, which can be disrupted by factors such as antibiotics, diet, or infection but it could potentially help with a range of problems from irritable bowel syndrome to Alzheimer’s.
Why is faecal transplant used? How does faecal transplant work? How is faecal transplant performed? What are the risks of faecal transplant? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I relax my brain while on holiday?
What is a ‘lazy girl’ job?
How can I choose the right mattress for me?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/10/2023 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
What is BookTok?
You’ve no doubt already heard of TikTok, the short video app of choice for teens and young adults. Well in the last few weeks a new trend has really taken off, and it’s known as BookTok. The idea is simple: recommend books to your Tiktok followers using the hashtag #BookTok.
It’s really catching on and has even led to the emergence of literature enthusiast communities on the platform. The hashtag has been used millions of times since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Is it a new form of literary review then? What kinds of books are covered? So is there such a thing as Booktokers now then? Has the trend been having any other positive effects? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I choose the right mattress for me?
What is the Oosouji method of house cleaning?
What is an inclusive Barbie?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/10/2023 • 5 minutes, 1 second
What is the romance gap?
There’s certainly been a lot of progress in breaking down gender roles since the turn of the century, but still traditional expectations persist in the heteronormative dating world.
Ladies, have you wondered how many texts it's acceptable to send a guy in a day, or whether using a heart emoji is too much? Gentlemen, do you feel pressure to make the first move, asking a girl out and then initiating the first kiss? If that sounds familiar, then you've most likely experienced what’s known as the romance gap.
What exactly is the romance gap? By what behaviors does this phenomenon occur? What are the consequences? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is a ‘lazy girl’ job?
How can I choose the right mattress for me?
What is the Oosouji method of house cleaning?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
How can I relax my brain while on holiday?
Whether you're lounging on a beach, exploring a new city, or simply taking a break from your daily routine, finding ways to calm your mind while on holiday is really important for our mental and physical health. We often promise ourselves we’re going to disconnect from day one, but it's not as simple as that.
After all, when we’re at work our brains are constantly processing information, making decisions, solving problems, and dealing with stress. And we don’t just have an on-off switch allowing us to lower the intensity of our brain activity to zero in a split-second.
Why is disconnecting from work-related stress and responsibilities so difficult? Is there anything I can do to calm my brain while I’m away? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is a ‘lazy girl’ job?
How can I choose the right mattress for me?
What is the Oosouji method of house cleaning?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
What is a ‘lazy girl’ job?
A lazy girl job is an easy, enjoyable and well-paid job that doesn’t require much passion or effort, and leaves you with plenty of time to live your life outside of work.
It might sound too good to be true but some TikTokers have been posting videos of themselves bragging about their lazy girl jobs, such as working from home, answering emails, or doing administrative tasks and the hashtag #lazygirljob has amassed over 16 million views on the platform.
Why are people choosing a ‘lazy girl’ job? What are the problems with this type of work? What are the dangers of posting about this online? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I choose the right mattress for me?
What is the Oosouji method of house cleaning?
What is shy bladder syndrome?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/8/2023 • 4 minutes
What does my urine colour say about my health?
Over the course of our lifetime, we around 34,000 litres of urine, according to Business Insider. Urine evacuates the nitrogen-containing waste produced by the organs and expelled into the blood, like urea and uric acid for example. It's also made up of water and mineral salts. It tends to be a clear shade of yellow, ranging from pale to dark at different times of the day.
Nevertheless, our pee can come in as many as ten different shades, which can on occasion lead to unpleasant surprises when going to the bathroom. Some are due to what we eat and drink,while others are caused by health conditions like urinary infections, diabetes or kidney stones. As we approach World Kidney Day, which falls on 9th March every year, let’s take a moment to go through all those various colours and what they may mean from a health perspective.
To start out, why is it yellow most of the time? What are the oddest colours urine can take on? What if the colour doesn’t go back to normal? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : Mars 6th, 2023
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I choose the right mattress for me?
What is the Oosouji method of house cleaning?
What is an inclusive Barbie?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
How can I choose the right mattress for me?
Getting restorative sleep and putting an end to back pain are both good reasons to opt for quality bedding. And if another reason was needed: on average, we spend 7-9 hours in bed every night and around a third of our lives sleeping in total.
The problem is it can sometimes be like diving into a sea of options when it comes to mattresses. The most common type is the foam mattress, which adapts to all body shapes.
What are the other types of mattresses? Should I go for soft or firm? What if I have back problems? How often should I be changing my mattress? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I reduce my belly fat?
What are the health benefits of algae?
Why do people say that black cats bring bad luck?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What is the Oosouji method of house cleaning?
In Japan, cleanliness is cultural and synonymous with well-being. That’s down in no small part to the influence of Shintoism, the country's oldest religion. While the number of believers has been steadily decreasing for some time, Shinto philosophy and culture are still widely practised.
Cleanliness is seen not just as a physical state but also a spiritual one, as it is closely tied to the respect and reverence shown to Shinto gods. Following this line of thinking, many Japanese people engage in an annual Buddhist cleaning ritual called "Oosouji," aimed at purifying and organising their interiors before entering a new period.
What does "Oosouji" mean? What are the steps to follow during "Oosouji"? What are the benefits of it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I reduce my belly fat?
What are the health benefits of algae?
Why do people say that black cats bring bad luck?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
What is an inclusive Barbie?
Barbie has quite the impressive CV. She has had over 150 careers including fashion editor, surgeon and astronaut - enough to inspire any young fan. But what she has career-wise, she lacks when it comes to inclusivity.
Barbie is usually blond, perfect and impossibly proportioned - there is a reason Margo Robbie is playing her in the latest Barbie film. But this is finally going to change: Barbie is becoming more inclusive. Mattel is launching a new ‘Fashonista line’ which will include barbies with various disabilities, making it the most inclusive Barbie line to date.
What does an inclusive Barbie look like? Why has it taken so long to have an inclusive Barbie? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I reduce my belly fat?
What are the health benefits of algae?
Why am I getting bags and circles under my eyes?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Date of first release : October 18th, 2023
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/6/2023 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
What is shy bladder syndrome?
Today, we're going to talk about a condition that affects millions of people around the world, but is rarely discussed openly. It's called shy bladder syndrome, or paruresis, and it's a type of social anxiety disorder that makes it difficult or impossible to pee in public restrooms or with people nearby.
This happens when people are psychologically blocked, which tightens the sphincters - muscles that control the opening and closing of the bladder outlet. It refers to both a minor passing discomfort and an extreme situation that literally prevents a person from relieving themselves when not alone or not in private restrooms.
How common of a condition is it? Is it the fear of being seen or heard that causes this disorder? What can be done to address these blockages? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I reduce my belly fat?
What are the health benefits of algae?
Why do people say that black cats bring bad luck?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 56 seconds
Why is going to the cinema so romantic?
As date night options go, the cinema is a timeless classic which can be both fun and romantic. Even in the age of “Netflix and chill”, there’s an appeal to the immersive experience you can only get watching a film on the big screen. So if you’re wondering what to do this Valentine’s Day, why not book a cinema visit?
You may not be having a conversation, but you can interpret body language. If it’s a first date, and they’re on their phone all the time, that might be off putting. If your date is comfortable enough to hold your hand or let you put your arm around their shoulder without it being awkward, that’s a good sign. Of course, don’t be pushy or intrusive. Make sure you ask your date for consent before trying any kind of physical intimacy.
How can you have a good date when you’re not even talking to one another during the film? Any tips for a great cinema date? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I reduce my belly fat?
What are the health benefits of algae?
Why am I getting bags and circles under my eyes?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Date of first release : August 13th, 2023
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8/5/2023 • 3 minutes, 43 seconds
How can I reduce my belly fat?
The infamous little belly bulge located around the abdomen can be a source of self-consciousness for many people. Getting rid of it is often one of the main motivations for people looking to lose weight. However, reducing or shedding this abdominal fat can prove to be quite the challenge.
But belly fat, also known as visceral fat, isn't only a cosmetic concern. It’s a serious risk factor for many chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and even some cancers.
Why is visceral fat dangerous? Why is abdominal fat so difficult to shift? What are the tips to get ride of it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What are the health benefits of algae?
Why do people say that black cats bring bad luck?
What are pick me boys?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What are the health benefits of algae?
Algae is an aquatic plant that grows in most fresh and saltwater bodies across the world. There are over 40,000 species of algae, and they range in size from microscopic to giant kelp and seaweed plants. Many species of algae are edible, and have been consumed for thousands of years by humans for their unique taste and nutritional benefits.
Algae is highly nutritious. In most algae types, you will find complete proteins and omega-3 fatty acids. They also contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber, and other elements that can support your health.
What are some of the benefits of eating algae? What type of algae is good for the health? How can algae benefit vegans? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do people say that black cats bring bad luck?
What are pick me boys?
Can naps keep the brain healthy?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/3/2023 • 3 minutes, 44 seconds
Why am I getting bags and circles under my eyes?
Nobody likes getting up in the morning and looking in the mirror to find dreary bags and circles under their eyes.
It can make you look tired and lower your self-confidence as you head to work, feeling like a zombie. But it’s more than just an aesthetic issue. More often than not, it’s an indication of poor health habits, and sometimes a sign of underlying medical conditions.
So what actually causes those dreary circles? How worried should you be about seeing bags and circles under your eyes? What’s the best way to deal with them then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : August 17th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is online grooming?
What does eating junk food do to our brains?
Why do friend breakups hurt so much?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
What are pick me boys?
Self-deprecation can be an endearing trait in some people. After all, it’s important not to take oneself too seriously, isn’t it? But when pick me boys, the subject of today’s episode, talk badly about themselves, they do so in a manipulative way, in the hope that it will bring them closer to women they’re attracted to.
The term “pick me boy” first emerged on social media in early 2021. According to an Urban Dictionary definition from user Shelmet101, it refers to: “A guy who uses self depreciation in a manipulative way so a girl will date him,” who “will say bad things about themselves to try to get the girl to oppose what they’ve said.”
What kind of tactics do pick me boys use? Could you say that pick me boy behaviour is sexist? But are all pick me boys manipulative? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can naps keep the brain healthy?
What is online grooming?
What does eating junk food do to our brains?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
Why do people say that black cats bring bad luck?
According to estimations from the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals charity, UK households are home to around 11 million pet cats. Cats have long been an integral part of human culture, and that has given rise to certain beliefs and superstitions.
That’s particularly true when it comes to black cats, who have been associated with bad luck and misfortune for centuries. The association between black cats and bad luck can be traced back to various cultural beliefs and historical events.
Why is it black cats in particular? Are there any cultures or regions where black cats are considered symbols of good luck? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can naps keep the brain healthy?
What is online grooming?
What does eating junk food do to our brains?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
Can naps keep the brain healthy?
If you like to take a short nap during the day you might be doing your brain a favor. According to a study published in the journal Sleep Health in June of 2023, people who have a genetic predisposition to napping regularly have larger brain volumes than those who don’t.
This suggests that napping may protect against brain shrinkage, which occurs faster in people with cognitive problems and neurodegenerative diseases. But before you rush to your bed or couch, there are some caveats to consider.
What did the study find? How does napping protect against brain shrinkage? What are the optimal conditions for a nap? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is online grooming?
What does eating junk food do to our brains?
Why do friend breakups hurt so much?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
What are the secrets to a long lasting relationship?
Do You Really Know talks about love for Valentine's Day on February 14th! To understand everything about love relationships and current dating methods, we decipher together the new concepts that make love today.
According to the Daily Mail, the “seven year itch” in relationships is now a thing of the past. The average relationship length is just two years and nine months, according to a UK survey from 2014. Since the late 20th century, long-lasting relationships have tended to be the exception rather than the norm. It’s a trend that has fascinated researchers, with many carrying out studies in search of the secrets behind a lasting relationship.
What can we learn from those studies then? What about physical signs of affection? What factors are giveaways that a relationship won’t last then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : 11 février 2023
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How often should I wash my hair?
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
What is online grooming?
The UK’s Online Safety Bill has been in the pipeline for a number of years now, and is currently being considered by the House of Lords. The proposed bill has caused a lot of controversy due to its broad ambitions and a perceived threat to people’s privacy.
But it’s been welcomed in some quarters, and in particular by children’s charities like the NSPCC, who say that it’s needed to tackle grooming and child sexual abuse online. Indeed the NSPCC says such measures are long overdue and that over 3,500 online sex crimes are likely happening each month that the bill is delayed.
How does online grooming happen, and who are the typical targets ? Does this only happen online? How can you identify a child victim ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
Does voluntourism do more harm than good?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/31/2023 • 4 minutes, 56 seconds
What does eating junk food do to our brains?
We all know about the physical consequences of having an unbalanced diet, and one that includes a lot of junk food in particular. In the short term eating lots of it can lead a person to put on weight and see their blood pressure increase, while it can also potentially lead to long-term conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
But studies are increasingly clear on the fact that junk food can also impair our brain functions, particularly memory. Scientists have not yet fully explained this mechanism, and it appears that it's not the only repercussion on our cognitive abilities.
How exactly does junk food impair brain function ? On the contrary, does eating well have beneficial effects on the brain ? What can we do to resist junk food? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
Does voluntourism do more harm than good?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
Why do friend breakups hurt so much?
We all know that getting over romantic relationships can take time, sometimes weeks, months or years. Many poems, songs and film scenes have been dedicated to expressing the pain of dealing with such situations. But friendship heartbreaks don’t tend to get so much attention, even though they can hurt as much, or even more!
There are legitimate reasons for wanting to end a friendship. Sometimes it happens naturally when a person moves away, and it’s just not practical to see each other as often as before. In other scenarios, you may simply no longer share the same interests or values which brought you together in the first place. Or it could be something more negative, like an unhealthy rivalry, repeated deceit or a toxic friendship.
What are the main differences between these two types of breakup? What’s the best way to end a friendship then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : July 28th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Who are the RMT, the organisation creating massive travel disruption across the UK?
Who are the Moonies, the church with ties to Japanese politicians?
What is muscle dysmorphia?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
Why does the Catholic Church have a Moon Bishop?
The Diocese of Orlando, the capital city of the state of Florida, covers a large part of the state. It represents more than 400,000 Catholic residents, and believe it or not, the Moon too!
According to the Code of Canon Law drafted in 1917, any newly discovered territory falls under the jurisdiction of the bishop from where the discovery expedition originated.
What is the Code of Canon Law ? Who was the first Bishop of the Moon then? Is there currently an active Bishop of the Moon? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
Does voluntourism do more harm than good?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/29/2023 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
Should we all be working a 4 day week?
One of the unsuspected consequences of a global pandemic is a re-evaluation not only of how we work but what work means to us.
For some the flexibility was a breath of fresh air, others missed the office and even the commute but with employee happiness more important than ever and people feeling overwhelmed and stressed at work the question of how to achieve a work-life balance has never been more important. One approach is the 4 day week.
But how will they keep productivity the same? So how is it going so far? Could the 4 day week be the new normal? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : August 27th 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
Does voluntourism do more harm than good?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/29/2023 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
What does vaping do to the body?
Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among young people. A 2022 report from Action on Smoking and Health found that an estimated 4.3 million people vape in Great Britain, a figure that is massively up from 800,000 a decade ago.
It’s often touted as a safer alternative to smoking, but have you ever wondered what it actually does to your body? Or whether it comes with its own set of risks. Let’s look into the facts on the matter.
What do the liquids in e-cigarette tanks contain ? Is vaping completely harmless then ? What can be done to minimize these risks? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch ?
What’s the point of flight mode?
Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is the "no-wash" movement?
The “no-wash” movement is a trend that involves washing clothes and hair less often, or not at all, for environmental, economic, or practical reasons. Some followers of this movement claim that frequent laundering is unnecessary for maintaining clean, odor-free clothing.
They also argue that washing less can save water, energy, money, and time doing chores. However, not everyone is convinced by the benefits of the “no-wash” movement. Some critics question the hygiene, comfort, and social acceptability of wearing unwashed garments or hair.
Why is it gaining popularity ? What are the pros and cons of the “no-wash” movement ? How can people join the “no-wash” movement without compromising their health or appearance ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch ?
What’s the point of flight mode?
Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
Who is Rosalia?
Following the release of her latest album Motomami, Rosalia Vila Tobella was called a visionary and compared to artists like M.I.A. and Madonna by the Wall Street Journal.
It’s fair to say she seems destined to be one of the biggest pop stars of her generation. So let’s take a moment to discuss the career of a singer who is winning critical and popular acclaim with everything she does.
How did she get to where she is today? Well, where do you go from there huh?! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : April 15th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch ?
What’s the point of flight mode?
Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
Which conspiracy theories were actually true?
The origins of Covid-19 still remain somewhat hazy, over three-and-a-half years since the virus began spreading across the world. That has led to a number of prominent conspiracy theories, with 25% of people in the UK believing that Covid was definitely or probably a hoax.
That finding was part of an April 2023 survey by Savanta for King’s College London and the BBC. It also established that belief in other conspiracy theories is relatively high too, like the idea that the cost of living crisis is a government plot to control the public. Of course, the vast majority of them are false, but there are certain exceptions to the rule.
What about the Watergate Scandal ? What about the Tuskegee Syphilis Study ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch ?
What’s the point of flight mode?
Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
What is the triangular theory of love?
Love is without doubt one of the most fascinating and elusive topics in human psychology. You might have wondered at some point just what it is that makes romantic relationships work, and whether there are objective criteria that help.
As we delve into the realm of human emotions and relationships, let’s discuss the Triangular Theory of Love. It was proposed by American psychologist Robert Sternberg in 1986, while he was teaching at Yale University. It actually went viral on Tiktok earlier this year, with the Triangular Theory of Love hashtag reaching over 850,000 views
Is it anything to do with a love triangle ? What if a relationship has more of one component than the other two ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch ?
What’s the point of flight mode?
Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 45 seconds
How can I save 1000 pounds in a year ?
Saving money can be challenging, especially in these uncertain times. But it's not impossible. With some planning, discipline and creativity, you can achieve your savings goal and improve your financial situation.
Saving is important for many reasons; It can help you prepare for unexpected emergencies, achieve your personal or professional goals, or simply enjoy life more. Saving 1000 pounds in a year is a realistic and achievable goal that can make a big difference in your financial situation.
How can I make a savings goal and track my progress ? What are some easy ways to save money without much effort? How can I reduce my spending on unnecessary or low-value items? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch ?
What’s the point of flight mode?
Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
How does Paris syndrome affect some visitors to the French capital?
Some visitors can be so shocked by the reality of Paris compared to their expectations that they can experience psychiatric breakdowns or symptoms such as hallucinations, depersonalization, anxiety, dizziness and nausea. This is known as the Paris Syndrome.
Romance, sophistication, croissants and sipping fine wine with the Eiffel Tower in the background spring to mind when thinking of a visit to Paris. With such a romanticized notion of the French capital, it’s no surprise that this remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with 33 million expected in 2022, according to Le Monde. But it seems that the reality of Paris is more than what some visitors’ stomachs can handle.
Why do some visitors have such unrealistic expectations of Paris? How do you actually explain the physical symptoms? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : August 24th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
Does voluntourism do more harm than good?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
What is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch ?
Nicknamed the "seventh continent" or “trash vortex" the Great Pacific Garbage Patch is an expanding mass consisting of 1.8 trillion plastic waste pieces in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
According to a study by NGO The Ocean Cleanup, which was published in Scientific Reports in 2018, it covers an area of 620,000 square miles, which is bigger than France, Germany and Spain combined.
How was it formed ? What is the impact on the environment ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I best preserve food in my freezer ?
What are the biggest misconceptions on beating heatwaves?
What is a salt tooth ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What’s the point of flight mode?
Those are no doubt familiar instructions if you’ve ever taken a plane. Today's topic is one that has been a part of our digital lives for quite some time: Flight Mode. Have you ever wondered why this feature exists on our devices, and what purpose it serves beyond just flying on airplanes?
The main function of Flight Mode is to disable your device's cellular radio. This includes the mobile network as well as 4G or 5G connections. That of course means you can’t receive voice calls or text messages.
Why do we have to activate it when flying then ? Is Flight Mode beneficial for health? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I best preserve food in my freezer ?
What are the biggest misconceptions on beating heatwaves?
What is a salt tooth ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
Swimsuit season is here and many women will be making sure they’re body hair is groomed in good time before jetting off for a beach holiday. And it’s not just in summer time either.
According to a Jama Dermotology study of 3,316 American women in 2016, 83.8% reported removing at least some of their pubic hair. The most common hair removal methods are waxing, shaving and lasering. Over half of the respondents cited hygiene reasons for doing so, but in reality there may be health risks associated with the practice.
How did female pubic hair get to be out of fashion? What are the actual functions of pubic hair? Are there any other risks? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : July 6th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I best preserve food in my freezer ?
What are the biggest misconceptions on beating heatwaves?
What is a salt tooth ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
Is sleeping with my phone dangerous?
Smartphones only really entered our lives within the last 10 to 15 years, but they’ve since become indispensable. And it can even be hard to put them down when nighttime falls. According to Reviews.org, 60% of Americans sleep with their phone at night. How about you?
You may think that having your phone next to you in bed is harmless, or even helpful. But did you know that sleeping with your phone can actually have negative effects on your health and well-being?
Don’t mobile phones emit dangerous waves ? Do they also disturb sleep ? Are there any positives to keeping my phone close by at night? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I best preserve food in my freezer ?
What are the biggest misconceptions on beating heatwaves?
What is a salt tooth ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
Who are the Moonies, the church with ties to Japanese politicians?
One year ago, the whole world was shocked by the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in July 2022. He was brutally shot in public while giving a speech at a campaign in the city of Nara.
The attacker, a 41 year old former marine, was arrested on the spot. In the time since the assassination, some details have emerged of the killer’s motives. It seems to have been an act of revenge, based on Abe’s perceived links to a religious group called the Unification Church, also known as the Moonies.
How did we get to this theory? What’s the history of the Unification Church? How strong were Shinzo Abe’s links to the group? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of firt release : July 26th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I best preserve food in my freezer ?
What are the biggest misconceptions on beating heatwaves?
What is a salt tooth ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
What is gophering?
Have you ever matched with someone on a dating app, had a great conversation, agreed to meet up in real life and then, at the last minute, they cancel on you or stop responding altogether? It might sound counterintuitive but it’s actually surprisingly common. To the extent that a term has been coined to label it, and that’s gophering.
The name gophering comes from the animal gopher, which is known for digging tunnels and disappearing underground. And it makes sense. The dating ‘gopher’ basically tunnels back into the abyss, leaving you hanging and wondering what went wrong.
Why do people do that ? Is it the same as ghosting ? How can tell if someone is going to gopher me, and what should I do if it happens ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I best preserve food in my freezer ?
What are the biggest misconceptions on beating heatwaves?
What is a salt tooth ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
What are the dangers with being overly perfectionist?
Perfectionism is the tendency to set excessively high and unrealistic standards for oneself and others, and to evaluate one’s worth based on the ability to meet those standards.
Perfectionists are not satisfied with anything less than flawless results, and they often fear failure, criticism, or disappointment but constantly striving for perfection can have serious consequences.
How does perfectionism affect your productivity? How does perfectionism impact you? How does perfectionism impact your relationships? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is brain tapping, the viral technique for improving sleep quality?
What is the half and half drinking method?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
What is a home exchange?
If you’re the kind of person that plans ahead, you’ve probably already got your summer holidays booked months ahead of time. Nevertheless, holidays are always pricey, with Europeans spending an average budget of €1600 over the last 3 years according to Statista.
For those of us who are lucky enough to be able to travel, let’s not take it for granted. It’s a privilege, which some people unfortunately can’t afford. However, there are alternatives for those on a shoestring budget.
Well, if I’m broke I can’t go anywhere can I? It must take a lot of organisation, mustn’t it? How can I organise my first home exchange? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : April 30th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the PKK?
What is the Tower of Babel?
What is the Streisand effect?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
How can I best preserve food in my freezer ?
With the warmer weather that summer brings, it’s especially important to be aware of the best techniques for freezing food before it goes bad. This ensures food safety and minimises waste. Furthermore, proper freezing techniques help preserve the taste, texture, and nutritional value of the food.
You might think it’s as simple as bunging something in the freezer and leaving it there for as long as you want, but actually there are a number of finer points to bear in mind, which many people are unaware of. Fear not though, as usual we've got you covered. Get ready to beat the heat and become a food freezing expert. Let's jump right in!
Is it OK to freeze something that has already thawed ? What’s the ideal temperature for maintaining a freezer ? Are there any food items that are not suitable for freezing? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is brain tapping, the viral technique for improving sleep quality?
What is the half and half drinking method?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/19/2023 • 5 minutes
What are the biggest misconceptions on beating heatwaves?
According to a World Meteorological Organisation report from May 2023, it’s now more likely than not that global temperatures will surpass the key milestone of 1.5°C warming. This is of course down to human-related greenhouse gas emissions, as well as the El Nino weather phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean, which was confirmed to have started as of early June.
Of course the long term impact of such warming is expected to be catastrophic, but even in the short term it means that all of us are faced with increasingly frequent heatwaves, the likes of which saw temperature records broken across the UK in July 2022.
Should we take cold showers ? Should we drink a cold beverage ? Should we leave our fan on all night while we're sleeping ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is brain tapping, the viral technique for improving sleep quality?
What is the half and half drinking method?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/19/2023 • 5 minutes, 1 second
What is a salt tooth ?
You’ve probably heard of a sweet tooth, the term for people who love sugary foods and desserts. But you might be less familiar with a salt tooth. In other words a preference for salty foods, such as crisps, olives, cheese and other salty things.
According to a study presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions meeting in 2016, there is a genetic basis for your salt cravings. Some people carry a variation of a gene that may give them more of a taste for salt. This gene also affects how people perceive bitterness, which may explain why people with a salt tooth tend to avoid foods such as broccoli and dark leafy greens.
What causes a salt tooth, and is it bad for your health ? How can you satisfy your salt tooth without harming your health ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is brain tapping, the viral technique for improving sleep quality?
What is the half and half drinking method?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
Who invented emojis?
We all know them and use them; so today let’s celebrate them. World Emoji Day falls on 17th July. Yes that’s right, a day has been set aside for honouring the little pictograms we use to brighten up our digital messaging exchanges.
You can find them in emails, messaging apps, and on social media. Everywhere really. But we’re so used to them that we don’t really think about who created them to start with, or how new ones emerge these days.
So what’s the difference between an emoticon, a smiley and an emoji then? Where do new emojis come from? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : 18th July, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is brain tapping, the viral technique for improving sleep quality?
What is the half and half drinking method?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
What is brain tapping, the viral technique for improving sleep quality?
According to a 2022 study by Direct Line life insurance, 71% of British adults fail to get the recommended 7 to 9 hours sleep per night. Many people struggle with getting to sleep, and if you use Tiktok, you may well have seen clips of people talking about methods for overcoming that problem.
Brain tapping, as found on TikTok, actually combines two techniques. The first one was invented by Jim Donovan, a professional drummer and professor at Saint Francis University in Pennsylvania.
How does this technique work? Is brain tapping really effective? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I cut my summer holiday spending?
How can I stay cool at home during summer?
What are the best holiday destinations?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/17/2023 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What is the half and half drinking method?
When summer comes, there are many opportunities to go for a few drinks, whether that be post-work with colleagues or on holiday with friends or family. Not to mention barbecues, family meals and outings on the weekend. It’s pretty easy to end up drinking several nights a week.
Bear in mind that according to the NHS, a low-risk consumption of alcohol is 14 units per week or less. But 21% of adults actually drink more than that. A lot of people struggle in moderation and end up drinking amounts that could harm their health in the long run, by raising their blood pressure, disrupting sleep patterns and increasing anxiety or depression.
In what does this method consist? Is it useful for everyone? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I cut my summer holiday spending?
How can I stay cool at home during summer?
What are the best holiday destinations?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
We’re all aware of the physical risks associated with extreme heat, like dehydration and fainting for example. But a number of scientific studies have shown that heatwaves also have a major impact on people’s mental health.
It’s important to highlight that the difference can be experienced by anyone, not just those with existing psychiatric conditions. But one thing is for sure: the vast majority of us are more anxious when temperatures are high. And it makes sense that we get more irritable when you consider how our bodies work. Heat causes our heart rate, pulse, blood pressure and cortisol levels to all increase. Meanwhile, it deregulates so-called happy hormones serotonin and dopamine.
Who is most affected? What do researchers have to say about it? What about eco-anxiety? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : July 19th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Who invented emojis?
Why do we love hate-watching certain films and series?
How can the unisex condom improve my sex life?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
Are smoothies actually good for you?
Smoothies can be seen pretty prominently in organic food stores and supermarkets during the summer. They’ve been a popular choice for years now and come with a reputation for being healthy too.
Many people believe that they’re a convenient way of consuming fruit and vegetables, and that they’re also effective at preventing snacking between meals.
What’s the difference between a smoothie and fruit juice? Are smoothies healthier than fruit juice? Can you drink smoothies every day? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I cut my summer holiday spending?
How can I stay cool at home during summer?
What are the best holiday destinations?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
What is vitamin D?
This summer, relax and learn with Do You Really Know! It's time to learn all about the concepts, words and expressions that surround the summer season!
Vitamin D was discovered in 1922 by American biochemist Elmer McCollum, who was nicknamed Dr Vitamin by Time Magazine. He found that cod liver oil could still prevent rickets in rats, despite its vitamin A having been removed. From this observation, he deduced that it contained a different substance which he called vitamin D. A sufficient quantity of vitamin D is necessary during early childhood years in order to prevent rickets. In adults, it protects against osteoporosis and the deterioration of bone tissue. It also plays an important part in preventing breast cancer and colon cancer.
How do we produce or find Vitamin D then? But how does sunblock work then? What about skin colour; does that impact our ability to produce Vitamin D? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is permafrost?
How to follow the beach flag system?
Is the sugar in fruit actually good for you?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
How can I learn 1000 words in a new language?
For our 1000th episode we thought we would bring you a special edition with a focus on the number 1000 and since we have a French and a English podcast then what better subject than about learning 1000 words in a new language.
According to some experts, 1000 words is the magic number that can help you achieve a basic communicative level in any language. With 1000 words, you can understand most of the everyday speech of native speakers, and you can express yourself on a variety of topics.
But how do you learn 1000 words quickly and effectively? What else can you do to make sure you don't forget your new words? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I cut my summer holiday spending?
How can I stay cool at home during summer?
What are the best holiday destinations?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 1 second
How can I cut my summer holiday spending?
According to comparison website Finder.com, UK residents plan to spend an average of over £2100 on holidays abroad in the year 2023. Spending abroad has bounced back to pre-pandemic levels, having plummeted in 2020 and 2021, when travel restrictions were in place.
Still, while many of us are making up for lost time when it comes to holidays, there’s also the small matter of a cost of living crisis to deal with. Thankfully there are some ways in which you can satisfy your holiday needs without breaking the bank.
How can I avoid paying top dollar for travel and accomodation ?What about food and cultural activities ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Who invented emojis?
Why do we love hate-watching certain films and series?
How can the unisex condom improve my sex life?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
Could vanlife be a lifestyle choice for me?
The last three and a half years have caused a lot of us to reassess our priorities in life. Are we really living our lives to the full? Are there new experiences that we should be trying out? Within that context, an alternative nomadic lifestyle called vanlife has seen a resurgence.
It’s been around since the 1960s, when hippies would travel across the United States in vans. But social media has made it trendy again, and in particular Instagram where the #vanlife hashtag has over 13 million posts. Essentially, vanlife is pretty much exactly what it sounds like: living in a van. It’s a minimalist lifestyle, which also grants the freedom to travel and be adventurous.
What are some of the coolest things about vanlife ? How do I know if the van lifestyle is for me? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : August 25th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How does Paris syndrome affect some visitors to the French capital?
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What are the best holiday destinations?
Everyone has their own expectations when it comes to summer holidays. Regardless, you don't necessarily have to travel far to have a good time. At least, that's what 31% of British people think, according to research from TripAdvisor. That’s the proportion of people who plan to holiday exclusively in the UK this year.
But for others, going on holiday is all about turning dreams of exotic destinations into a reality. Let's discuss some of the top domestic and international destinations for 2023.
What are the best destinations within the UK? Is going to Europe really that expensive? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How to follow the beach flag system?
Is the sugar in fruit actually good for you?
How can I save money on my gas bill?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
How can I stay cool at home during summer?
Brits have just experienced the hottest June on record, according to the Met Office. The average mean temperature across the UK was 15.8°C, nearly a full degree higher than the previous record.
July is also expected to be hotter than average, and a heatwave isn’t out of the question. So it’s important to be prepared for high temperatures, especially at home.
What is the ideal temperature to have at home? When should I be airing my home during hot spells? Are there any other tips ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How to follow the beach flag system?
Is the sugar in fruit actually good for you?
How can I save money on my gas bill?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What is permafrost?
Permafrost is ground that remains frozen for two years or more. It’s made up of soil, rocks and sand, and held together by ice. In some places, this ground layer formed over 100,000 years ago, and can reach several miles in depth.
Around 24% of land in the Northern Hemisphere has permafrost underneath it, according to the US National Snow and Ice Data Center. It’s mostly found in Arctic countries, in places like Russia, Canada and Alaska. As planet Earth’s climate warms, this permafrost is thawing, an alarming situation which is already having a dramatic impact.
What’s happening to the permafrost then? How does that affect the rest of us who don’t live in those regions? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : 7 avril 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can you secure your home before leaving on holiday?
What is last chance tourism?
Which are the best cities in the world to live in?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/11/2023 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
How to follow the beach flag system?
The beach flag system is a way of indicating the safety conditions of the water and the beach. It helps you to avoid potential hazards and enjoy your time at the beach.
Not all countries use the same flags or have the same meanings for them. In some countries, such as the USA and Canada, there are more than four colours of flags, such as brown for rip currents or double red for water closed. Therefore, it is important to check the local signs and flags before entering the water in a any country.
What do the different colours mean ? Do all countries follow the same rules ? What other flags might you see in the UK ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can you secure your home before leaving on holiday?
What is last chance tourism?
Which are the best cities in the world to live in?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/11/2023 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
Is the sugar in fruit actually good for you?
Just like vegetables, fruit is essential in a healthy and balanced diet. Ever since the UK government’s campaign in 2003, we’ve all known that we’re supposed to get our “five a day”. And a lot of fruit tends to be pretty sweet, especially when ripe. That’s because fruit contains sugar, and more specifically a large amount of fructose with little glucose.
The problem with fructose is that it easily converts into fat in the liver. For the same quantity of fructose and glucose, fructose will produce more fat in the liver. And that can have a significant effect on metabolism. If consumed in large amounts, it could lead to hepatic steatosis, or fatty liver, a phenomenon that is increasingly common with obesity.
What is fructose ? Is fructose better than glucose for health ? Should we be avoiding fruit ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can you secure your home before leaving on holiday?
What is last chance tourism?
Which are the best cities in the world to live in?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/10/2023 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
How can I save money on my gas bill?
As of 1st July 2023, UK energy regulator Ofgem brought the energy price cap down to £2,074, a significant fall from the previous price guarantee of £2,500 that was introduced by the government in October 2022.
Prices had soared mostly due to an increase in wholesale energy costs caused by the war in Ukraine. Bear in mind the price cap is based on an estimate for a dual fuel household paying by direct debit based on typical consumption. It’s not an absolute cap on your energy bill, so if you consume more than the average, you will pay more.
Do I need to do anything with my boiler ? What about changing provider ; is that allowed ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can you secure your home before leaving on holiday?
What is last chance tourism?
Which are the best cities in the world to live in?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
Why does time go by faster with age?
Do you remember how as a kid, it would always seem like an eternity waiting for Christmas or your birthday to come around? But having reached adulthood, it seems like the years just fly by.
It’s a funny thing, but as we get older, time simply seems to go by quicker. Of course in reality the passage of time doesn’t change at all. But it’s been established that our perception of time passing is altered as we age. In recent years, American mechanical engineering professor Adrian Bejan came up with a new theory on the subject, which was published in the European Review journal in March 2019. He suggested that as we grow older our brain’s cognitive abilities wane.
What research has been done into that phenomenon? Are there any other theories out there? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : February 15th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Rufus the Hawks job at Wimbledon?
What is an eco-friendly beach ?
Why do we get grumpy when we're hungry?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
What is kakeibo, the mindful Japanese budgeting method ?
There are a number of possible reasons why people don’t manage to save as much money as they would like. For example: paying for things with a credit card can make you forget how much you’ve spent, or you simply don’t earn enough to save in the first place. You might feel like money saving methods simply won’t ever work for you.
But let's go back to basics. A simple Japanese technique called “kakeibo” could just revolutionise your relationship with money. The word “kakeibo” roughly translates as "household expense book". It refers to a notebook where you list your income and expenses, divided into several categories. But there’s a purpose behind all of it, of course, which is being able to save money you otherwise wouldn’t.
Where does this method come from ? And why would it work better than other techniques ? How do I get started then ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Rufus the Hawks job at Wimbledon?
What is an eco-friendly beach ?
Why do we get grumpy when we're hungry?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 55 seconds
What are "almond moms"?
Back in 2013, American reality TV show The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills featured a scene that would unexpectedly go viral nearly a decade later. The scene showed a phone conversation between former model Yolanda Hadid and her daughter Gigi. Hadid junior said she felt sick because she hadn’t eaten all day, and her mother’s advice in response was to “eat two almonds”.
It might have seemed innocuous at the time, but that moment went viral in 2022, with a number of female Tiktokers complaining about how their mothers were damaging their relationship with food. The term “almond moms" was born, in a nod to the Hadid reality TV scene, and at the time of recording it has close to 480 million views.
What are the main charachteristics of almond moms ? What makes almond moms act that way ? What are the consequences of such a restrictive upbringing ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Rufus the Hawks job at Wimbledon?
What is an eco-friendly beach ?
Why do we get grumpy when we're hungry?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
Should I quit air travel to save the planet?
Flying is far from being the most eco-friendly means of transport. Right now it’s responsible for around 2% of global carbon emissions, but that could grow to as high as 16% by 2050.
With the notable exception of travel restrictions in the last two years, the airline industry has gradually been transporting more and more passengers for decades now. While that continued growth is impressive, we have to recognise that along with it come certain undesirable effects on the environment. Now that the climate crisis is all the more undeniable, could we see the general trend reversing at some point? Certain environmentalists gave up flying long ago to limit their carbon footprint. Greta Thunberg is one prominent example.
Can individuals really make a difference? Isn’t taking the train way more expensive and time-consuming? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : August 26th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is Rufus the Hawks job at Wimbledon?
What is an eco-friendly beach ?
Why do we get grumpy when we're hungry?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
How can you secure your home before leaving on holiday?
Whether you’re planning a short trip or a long-haul adventure, you want to make sure your home is safe and sound while you’re away. Here are some steps you can take to protect your property and prevent unwanted visitors.
Smart devices can offer various advantages for keeping your home safe while you’re away. Of course, there are many more things you can do depending on your situation and preferences you could even consider hiring house sitters. The main thing is to plan ahead and be prepared for any eventuality.
How can I avoid obvious signs of being away ? What security measures should I take ? What else can I do to ensure my home is safe while I am away? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Rufus the Hawks job at Wimbledon?
What is an eco-friendly beach ?
Why do we get grumpy when we're hungry?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 1 second
What is last chance tourism?
Last chance tourism is a travel trend whereby tourists increasingly seek to experience the world’s most endangered sites before they vanish or are irrevocably transformed, according to the definition given by the Current Issues in Tourism magazine. Last chance tourism is also sometimes referred to as doomsday tourism. The term was first coined in the early 2010s in Britain, before catching on in other countries.
What kind of endangered sites are we talking about? One would think an influx of tourists will only contribute to these sites’ deterioration. Is that the case? What can we do to put an end to last-chance tourism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do we get grumpy when we're hungry?
Who are the "never coviders" that have scientists fascinated?
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
Date of first release : Septembre 22nd, 2021
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
Which are the best cities in the world to live in?
Every year, The Economist Intelligence Unit publishes a Global Liveability Ranking, which assesses urban areas around the world according to quality of life, based on a number of factors.The latest ranking was made public in June 2023, and a trend was quickly identified.
A number of highly-ranked cities dropped drastically, and that includes British cities like London, Edinburgh and Manchester. All three were in the top 10 biggest movers down the ranking, compared to 2022. Indeed, Edinburgh came top of that list, moving down from 35 to 58. In total, 173 cities were assessed for the 2023 Global Liveability Ranking.
So wich cities fared best then ? Why did British cities perform so badly then ? Which are the least livable cities in the world ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the war on wee?
Why do players have to wear white at Wimbledon?
How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
Why do our bodies need to sleep?
Sleep is often seen as a waste of time. Many businessmen, politicians, and celebrities boast about sleeping only 5 hours per night or even being insomniacs. However, despite its sometimes bad reputation, sleep is essential for maintaining good health and aging well.
Bear in mind that no one has ever gone longer than 11 and a half days without sleeping. As a point of comparison, Scottish man Angus Barbieri went 382 days without eating any solid food in the 1960s, and in 1979 an Austrian man survived 18 days without any food or water. So you can understand just how essential sleep is for human life.
What does our body do during sleep ? What happens during REM sleep ? Does sleep also help us assimilate experiences we've had during the daytime ? Are there any other theories out there? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Rufus the Hawks job at Wimbledon?
What is an eco-friendly beach ?
Why do we get grumpy when we're hungry?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
What is Rufus the Hawks job at Wimbledon?
Rufus the hawk is the official bird scarer of Wimbledon. His job is to scare away pigeons and other birds from the famous tennis tournament.
Before hawks were used, they tried various methods to keep the birds away, such as loud noises, nets, wires, and even fake owls. But none of them worked very well. The birds would get used to them or find ways around them. They would make a mess on the courts and the stands, and sometimes even interrupt the matches. That’s why they decided to try hawks, as they are natural predators that can scare away most birds.
How did Rufus get this job ? What does Rufus do ? as Rufus encountered any problems while doing his job ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the war on wee?
Why do players have to wear white at Wimbledon?
How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
What is an eco-friendly beach ?
For many people, beaches are synonymous with the summer holiday season. And this summer, to relax and learn with Do You Really Know, it's time to learn about "eco-friendly beach".
Beach holidays have been popular since the second half of the 19th century, and are the archetypal form of mass tourism. With millions of people indulging in such getaways each year, it goes without saying that there’s a significant environmental impact. We regularly get riled when seeing pictures of beaches covered in plastic bottles, or turtles choking on straws. Around 10 million tonnes of waste end up in the ocean each year, with tourism hotspots creating 26% more than other cities.
Are you saying my new eco-friendly lifestyle isn’t compatible with a beach holiday? Wait a minute, should we stop using sunscreen then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : August 19th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the war on wee?
Why do players have to wear white at Wimbledon?
How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
Why do we get grumpy when we're hungry?
According to USA Today, the word “hangry” entered the Oxford English Dictionary in 2018. It’s a portmanteau term which combines the words “hungry” and “angry”. While it might sound a little silly or light-hearted, there’s evidence to suggest that getting grumpy is a pretty common reaction to feeling hungry.
The scientific reasons aren’t completely clear. But it kind of makes sense when you consider that the hypothalamus in the brain not only regulates feelings of hunger and fullness, but is also responsible for regulating mood. Getting grumpy when hungry is also a survival reflex to some extent. After all, our ancestors were hunter-gatherers, so being hungry was literally a threat to their lives.
What exactly happens in our bodies when we're hungry ? Could that be due to hypoglycemia ? What can I do to avoid getting in a bad mood if I can't eat ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the war on wee?
Why do players have to wear white at Wimbledon?
How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
Who are the "never coviders" that have scientists fascinated?
During the early months of the Covid-19 pandemic, many of us managed to avoid getting infected by following social distancing and hand hygiene guidelines. But the virus caught up with most people sooner or later, even those who were particularly cautious.
And yet there are some people out there who have still never had Covid, three and a half years since it emerged. Scientists believe some of them may be naturally immune, thanks to their genetic make-up.
Is that the same as being asymptomatic ? How can we identify them ? Are we sure that there are people out there who are immune to Covid ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the war on wee?
Why do players have to wear white at Wimbledon?
How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
We’ve already talked about flygskam and the no-fly movement in the past. Today, let’s discuss the shift towards train travel which has come about as a result, and the pride which people take in it! In Sweden, they even came up with a name for it, which is tagskryt, and translates as “triain bragging”!
The train has always been the preferred mode of transport for some people. Let’s face it; it’s easy to sit back comfortably, read a book, work or simply stare out of the window at the countryside sights going by. For others, switching to the train has been an enforced change of habit, brought on by realising what a negative impact flying has on the planet.
Another Scandinavian buzzword, huh! Is it really worth bragging about it on social media? Is flying really that much worse than taking the train? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : Septembre 16th, 2022
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do players have to wear white at Wimbledon?
How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
What is domotics, the technology behind smart homes?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
What is Wendy Syndrome?
Think back to the story of Peter Pan, and more specifically the character of Wendy Darling, Peter’s friend who accompanies him to Neverland. She’s the eldest and most mature of the Darling siblings, and acts as a mother figure to Peter too.
You could definitely describe her as caring, nurturing, responsible and self-sacrificing. Well those may sound like totally positive characteristics, but there is a flipside too. There are a lot of caring, nurturing people out there who just constantly need to satisfy others and tend to neglect themselves as a consequence.
Who coined the term “Wendy Syndrome” to describe such people ? Is it a natural inclination? Is it similar to emotional labor ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do players have to wear white at Wimbledon?
What is domotics, the technology behind smart homes?
What is Lima Syndrome?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
One of the biggest indirect impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic has been that on people’s mental health. Limited social interactions have led to feelings of loneliness increasing for many, all across the world.
In light of this, it comes as no surprise that people have been actively seeking friendships and connections with others more than ever before. Data from Tinder suggests that the average number of conversations, and the average length of conversations, increased during lockdown.
What are some examples? How do these friendship apps work? Why do people use friendship apps? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : August 22nd, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
How have Pride Parades evolved over the last 50 years?
Why do we put on weight when in a relationship?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
What is the war on wee?
Public urination has long been a nuisance in the United Kingdom, as it is in many other countries. But it’s really gotten worse in the last few years, and that’s down to the Covid-19 crisis in particular. British authorities decided to close public toilets for hygiene reasons.
And that’s actually exacerbated a longer-term trend, which has seen around 50% of public toilets closed in the last decade, according to the managing director of the British Toilet Association, as quoted by The Guardian. And public toileting is actually a health problem in itself. After all, urine can erode buildings and create pollution. It’s prompted cities around the world to clamp down, in a phenomenon media outlets have playfully labelled the “war on wee”.
What are authorities doing to deter people? What creative solutions have been seen? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do players have to wear white at Wimbledon?
What is domotics, the technology behind smart homes?
What is Lima Syndrome?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
Why do players have to wear white at Wimbledon?
Wimbledon is the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament in the world, dating back to 1877. It is also one of the few sporting events that has a strict dress code for players: they must wear almost entirely white clothing and shoes.
This is one of the most famous traditions of Wimbledon, dating back to the late 19th century. Some people think that it has to do with etiquette and tradition, as tennis was originally a sport for the upper class in Britain.
But is that really the case? What are the rules for players? What should spectators wear at Wimbledon? What is the dress code for the royal box at Wimbledon? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
o listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
Why do we put on weight when in a relationship?
How can I save on my water bill?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/29/2023 • 3 minutes, 57 seconds
How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
July is nearly upon us, which means it’s summer holiday time for many of you. Whether you’re going on a beach holiday, city break or camping trip, the chances are you’ll be soaking up the sun’s rays.
Sunshine activates vitamin D production in the body, which has numerous benefits like protecting us from disease and improving mental health. But on the other hand, being exposed for too long can accelerate skin ageing. Excessive UV can even lead to skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 100,000 new melanoma cases will be diagnosed in the United States alone in 2022.
How should I compare all the different products? Do sunscreens only protect us from UVBs? How often should we be topping up on sunscreen? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : June 29th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we put on weight when in a relationship?
How can I save on my water bill?
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/29/2023 • 5 minutes, 16 seconds
What is Lima Syndrome?
You may have heard of Stockholm Syndrome, which is when a hostage or a victim develops a positive bond with their captor or abuser. But did you know that there is an opposite of Stockholm Syndrome, which sees that dynamic flipped? It’s called Lima Syndrome.
The rare and intriguing phenomenon is named after the Peruvian capital city of Lima. It emerged in the context of a turbulent period in Peruvian history. Lima Syndrome isn’t necessarily a pathological condition, but it highlights the complexity of human emotions and the power dynamics at play in hostage situations.
Where does the name come from? When did we first observe this syndrome ? Why does it happen? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
Why do we put on weight when in a relationship?
How can I save on my water bill?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
What is domotics, the technology behind smart homes?
If you’ve ever had a “conversation” with Siri, Google Assistant or Alexa, you may well have been using a domotics system, without necessarily knowing what that means. The term refers to the use of robotic technology and electronic systems for controlling home appliances and devices. It’s also known as home automation, or simply a “smart home”.
And indeed the use of smart home devices has really taken off in the last decade or so. Devices like smart thermostats, security systems, intelligent lights and smart appliances have become more and more common. According to data shared by Finbold in 2021, 24.9% of internet users in the UK said they owned smart home devices. That figure was almost double the global average.
Where did domotics come from? What are the main benefits? Are domotics systems expensive? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
Why do we put on weight when in a relationship?
How can I save on my water bill?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What 5 foods can improve brain performance?
Eating a healthy diet that includes a lot of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and fish can help you keep your brain in tip-top shape. There are plenty of brain boosting foods but here are five that you might want to start including.
First of all, oily fish. When people talk about brain foods this is often at the top of the list. This type of fish includes salmon, trout, tuna, herring, and sardines, all of which are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are a major building block of the brain, and they play a role in sharpening memory and improving mood, as well as protecting your brain against cognitive decline.
What if you do not eat fish? What foods are good for memory? What’s an all round good food for the brain? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do we put on weight when in a relationship?
How can I save on my water bill?
Are blue eyes really more sensitive to light?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
How have Pride Parades evolved over the last 50 years?
In cities across the world, Pride Parades take place in late June and early July, with the London 2023 event set for 1st July. They bring together thousands of people and give visibility to the LGBTQ+ struggle.
These events have consistently grown and spread to new places after first taking place in June 1970. They’re also known as pride marches or festivals.
How did Pride marches first begin? What are the events like? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : July 2nd, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we put on weight when in a relationship?
How can I save on my water bill?
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
Why do we put on weight when in a relationship?
The subject of today’s episode is something that’s happened to many of us. You meet someone special, start spending a lot of time together and gradually fall in love. You go out for romantic dinners, you order takeout and watch Netflix on the couch. You’re so caught up feeling happy and comfortable with your partner, that you don't worry too much about your appearance.
Research has suggested that relationship weight gain is a real thing. A 2013 survey by Diet Chef found that over 60% of us put on weight when in a comfortable relationship. SON - augmentation It's not just because we eat more or exercise less. There are actually several factors that can contribute to the phenomenon
What happened ? What are the best ways of preventing or reversing relationship weight gain? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are 3 tips for developing positive thinking?
Is using deodorant safe?
Could slow living make me happier?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/26/2023 • 5 minutes, 6 seconds
Discover Love Me Love Me Not, Bababam's new podcast
We have some exciting news: our brand-new format, 'Love Me Love Me Not,' is now fully available on all listening platforms. We invite you to enjoy the episodes and explore the intricacies of love.
Whether real or fictional, discover the behind-the-scenes of the most iconic love stories in our world. Step into the backstage of these seemingly "glamorous" relationships that can sometimes prove to be much more complex. "Love me, love me not" explores love and disillusionment: a meeting, a spark... and then the flaw, and perhaps the breakup. From the legendary affair between Marilyn Monroe and President Kennedy to the controversial relationship of Johnny Depp and Amber Heard, and the iconic Ross and Rachel duo from "Friends"... Discover the famous love stories that have shaped our perception of love with a capital L.
Thank you so much for being part of our community.
Click on the link to discover the episodes :
Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/show/0FhXpbGNIE4NpdtG98aeRJ?si=8bdfc7c9d4fe4313
Apple Podcasts : https://podcasts.apple.com/fr/podcast/love-me-love-me-not/id1688367618
Castbox : https://castbox.fm/channel/Love-me%2C-love-me-not-id5440900?country=fr
Bababam : https://originals.bababam.com/bababam-love-me-love-me-not
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6/26/2023 • 1 minute, 19 seconds
How can I save on my water bill?
2022 marked the driest summer in nearly 30 years according to the UK government. And authorities felt the need to bring in a hosepipe ban across Kent and Sussex, which came into effect from 26th June.
Back in April, a National Drought Group spokesperson said that Britain won’t be able to “rely on the weather alone” to sustain water levels, and that preparations were being made to reduce the drought risk. It was also suggested that households should focus on saving water to help the efforts. An additional benefit when doing so is that it could help you save money on your water bill. That’s all the more relevant when you consider that as of 1st April, the average annual water bill rose by £31 to hit £448.
Isn’t water free? Why do I have to pay for it? So, what are the best ways of saving ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are 3 tips for developing positive thinking?
Is using deodorant safe?
Could slow living make me happier?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
Until recently when confronted with arranging a funeral there has been a choice between burial or cremation. However, in parts of the US, Canada and soon the UK a third choice can be possible.
Aquamation or as it is known technically “alkaline hydrolysis” is an alternative to traditional burials. The body of the deceased is placed in a pressurised stainless steel vessel and immersed in a mixture of water and alkali for three to four hours and heated to around 150C. During the process all the material is broken down leaving only the inorganic bone minerals which are then processed into powder and returned to the family in an urn.
What is aquamation? What is the advantage of aquamation? What are the disadvantages of aquamation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : February 2nd, 2023
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are 3 tips for developing positive thinking?
Is using deodorant safe?
Could slow living make me happier?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/25/2023 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
Are blue eyes really more sensitive to light?
The idea that light-colored eyes are generally more fragile is pretty widespread. They’re less resistant to sunlight and require more protection. According to Medical News Today, it’s estimated that around 8-10% of people in the world have blue eyes.
When our eyes are open, rays of light pass through the pupil, the black opening in the center of the iris. As you may know, the pupil dilates when it’s dark and contracts in bright light. When light rays strike the retina, they’re captured by photoreceptor cells like rod cells, which are involved in night vision and cone cells that enable color vision, among other things.
What’s the function of the iris ? Is sunlight dangerous for the eyes? Is wearing sunglasses enough to protect my eyes ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are 3 tips for developing positive thinking?
Is using deodorant safe?
Could slow living make me happier?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is sign singing?
Deafness is known for being an invisible disability, which can lead to exclusion and loneliness. According to a Human Rights Watch article from 2019, 70 million deaf people across the world use sign language to communicate. Well sign singers take that one step further, by adapting song lyrics into sign language for the deaf and hard of hearing.
In addition to making entertainment more accessible to deaf people and the hard of hearing, this musical activity singing is also a form of artistic expression in its own right. Sign singing can be just as diverse as vocal singing, demonstrating great creativity. There are many different forms, like rap signing, slow signing and hard signing.
How do sign singers translate music? Where does it come from? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are earworms, the songs we just can't get out of our heads?
Is it a good idea to sleep with my pet?
Who are digital nomads, the new generation of remote workers?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/24/2023 • 3 minutes, 35 seconds
Where does the LGBT rainbow flag come from ?
Pride month is celebrated around the world in June every year and if you’re attending events, you’ll no doubt see the rainbow flag. However, there are a number of other flags too, each with their own identity and meaning.
The rainbow flag is one of the most prominent symbols of the LGBT community, and its struggle for equal rights. But have you ever stopped to consider where the rainbow flag came from, and which other symbols preceded it ?
Which was the first widely used LGBT symbol ? Where does the rainbow come from ? How come you see so many different flags at Pride events, each with their own colour combinations? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are 3 tips for developing positive thinking?
Is using deodorant safe?
Could slow living make me happier?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
What are 3 tips for developing positive thinking?
Positive thinking is the attitude of seeing the bright side of things and expecting the best possible outcome. It doesn’t mean ignoring reality or denying problems, but rather approaching them with optimism and confidence.
Positive thinking can help you cope with stress, improve your mood, boost your self-esteem, and even enhance your physical and mental health.
So how can you train your brain to think positively? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here :
Could slow living make me happier?
What are earworms, the songs we just can't get out of our heads?
Is it a good idea to sleep with my pet?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
Is using deodorant safe?
As summer heats up, deodorant becomes a faithful ally. But this product can be very dangerous. On May 2022 a 14 year old girl, Giorgia Green, died from inhaling deodorant. The teenager, who was on the autistic spectrum, liked to spray deodorant on her blankets as she found the smell comforting. "The smell of it gave her a certain sense of relaxation," said her father.
Sadly her cause of death was found to be "unascertained but consistent with inhalation of aerosol” and although it is not common she is not alone. According to the Office for National Statistics, (ONS) "deodorant" was mentioned on 11 death certificates between 2001 and 2020. Though, it is likely that the actual number of deaths are higher than this, due to the fact that specific substances are not always mentioned on death certificates.
What is dangerous in deodorant? Why are people not being made aware of the danger? Should we stop using aerosol deodorants? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : February 23rd, 2023
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are earworms, the songs we just can't get out of our heads?
Is it a good idea to sleep with my pet?
Who are digital nomads, the new generation of remote workers?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
Could slow living make me happier?
The societies we live in these days, and especially in cities. We sometimes feel exhausted, anxious, depressed, and lonely in this ultra-productive life. What’s more, the constant fast pace can lead to memory and concentration problems. If you’re struggling to keep up, the slow living philosophy could be for you.
Slow Living is to do less in order to enjoy more. Instead of wanting to have multiple experiences that we only half-enjoy, slow living encourages us to simplify our lives and savour the present moment. It’s related to concepts of mindfulness and being fully present. Slow living can be interpreted in different ways, but the common thread is the idea of intentionality in what we do.
When did the slow movement start ? Isn’t it impossible to live a slow life in a city? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here :
What are earworms, the songs we just can't get out of our heads?
Is it a good idea to sleep with my pet?
Who are digital nomads, the new generation of remote workers?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
What is pronatalism ?
Overpopulation is often cited as a big factor behind the global climate crisis, so some people think it’s best to limit the amount of children they have, or not have any at all.But then at the other end of the scale you’ve got pronatalism, which is the belief that having more children is actually good for society and the future of humanity.
Among its most prominent supporters is Elon Musk, who has himself fathered ten known children with three different women. He often tweets about the dangers of low birth rates and population collapse.
Are Musk’s beliefs well-founded? If people want to have kids, that’s up to them, isn’t it ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How to spot, prevent and treat heatstroke ?
What are climate refugees?
What are earworms, the songs we just can't get out of our heads?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 56 seconds
How to spot, prevent and treat heatstroke ?
Heatstroke is a medical emergency that happens when your body temperature gets too high and you cannot cool down. This can harm your vital organs and even kill you if not treated quickly.
Heatstroke can be caused by being exposed to high temperatures, such as during a heatwave, or by working out too hard, such as during a marathon. It is different from heat exhaustion, which is a less severe condition that can lead to heatstroke if not treated.
How can I spot the signs of heatstroke ? How can I prevent heatstroke? How can I treat heatstroke?In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here :
What is 12-3-30, the viral Tiktok workout?
Where does Father's Day come from?
Why do we get pins and needles?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
What are climate refugees?
World Refugee Day is an international day to raise awareness of the plight of the world's refugees. It takes place every year on June 20th. So it's important to talk about the impact of the climate behind global human migration.
Climate refugees, or climate migrants, are people forced away from their homes due to sudden or gradual alterations in their natural environment. We’re talking about sea-level rise, extreme weather events, drought and water scarcity for example. They are also referred to as displaced people. According to a report by the European Commission on Migration, each year, an average of 30 million people are displaced due to environmental degradation.
Which NGOs are present in Somaliland? To what extent is climate migration a global phenomenon? What happens to climate refugees when they leave their homes? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : January 17th 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are earworms, the songs we just can't get out of our heads?
Is it a good idea to sleep with my pet?
Who are digital nomads, the new generation of remote workers?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
What are earworms, the songs we just can't get out of our heads?
Have you ever had a song stuck in your head for hours or even days? One that pops up randomly and repeats itself over and over again? Let’s take a moment to explore what earworms are, what they have in common, what causes them, and how they can affect our health.
An earworm is a catchy tune that invades your brain and refuses to leave. The term actually comes from the German word ohrwurm. According to ABC.net.au, it was first used in English by author Desmond Bagley, in his 1978 novel Flyaway.
What do earworm songs have in common ? What causes an earworm song to come into your head ? How can we get rid of an earworm song if we don't want it in our head? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here :
What is 12-3-30, the viral Tiktok workout?
Where does Father's Day come from?
Why do we get pins and needles?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
Is it a good idea to sleep with my pet?
If you have ever slept with a cat or a dog, you know how cozy it can be. Whether they are at the foot of the bed or on the duvet, pets can make you feel safe and comforted like a plush toy.
According to the UK Pet Food Manufacturers Association, 62% of households in the country own a pet, including 13 million dogs and 12 million cats. But are there health risks when you share your bed with a furry friend? Studies have different opinions on the matter. Let’s investigate.
What evidence is there on the subject ? What about hygiene ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here :
What is 12-3-30, the viral Tiktok workout?
Where does Father's Day come from?
Why do we get pins and needles?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
Who are digital nomads, the new generation of remote workers?
Since the first COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020, remote work has become commonplace in companies around the world.
Working from home offers many advantages, and “work from anywhere” policies take this freedom one step further. Many employees have said “yes, please” and packed their bags to become digital nomads.
Has the digital nomad lifestyle always been popular? What kinds of jobs do digital nomads do? What might the future of digital nomads look like? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : September 12th, 2022
To listen to the latest episodes, click here :
Why do we get pins and needles?
Is excuseflation contributing to rising food prices?
What is retinol, the miracle anti ageing skincare treatment?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 45 seconds
Why are four leaf clovers considered lucky?
You’ve most likely heard of this plant before, and seen one if you were lucky! Maybe you’ve even tried to find one in a field or a garden. The four leaf clover is without doubt one of the most popular and fascinating symbols of luck.
A four leaf clover is a clover plant that has four leaves instead of the usual three. A clover plant is a type of herb that belongs to the pea family. It has small flowers that can be white, pink, or purple. It grows in many parts of the world, especially in temperate and humid regions.
How do four leaf clovers differ from regular clovers? Where does the myth come from? What are the most common uses of four leaf clovers? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Where does Father's Day come from?
What is retinol, the miracle anti ageing skincare treatment?
What is the best time of day to take a shower?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/17/2023 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
Is putting on less heating a way to save money and be healthier?
The Energy Saving Trust calculates that turning your thermostat down from 20c to 19c should cut your energy bill by around 10 per cent. But as well as saving money there are possible health benefits.
According to a study carried out by the Garvan Institute of Medical Research in Australia spending time in an environment at 19° increases your ‘brown fat’. This is unlike normal fat, because it is packed with mitochondria which act like mini power stations, turning food into energy.
What are the health benefits? Should we go lower than 19°? Should anyone not turn down the temperature? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : November 15th, 2022
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is retinol, the miracle anti ageing skincare treatment?
How does the "Scully Effect" raise young women's interest in science fields?
What is the best time of day to take a shower?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/17/2023 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
What is 12-3-30, the viral Tiktok workout?
If you use Tiktok, you may well have seen videos of people walking on a treadmill at a steep incline. Many of them claim to have lost weight and improved their fitness, all thanks to the 12-3-30 workout.
If you’re thinking those are some oddly specific numbers, you’re right. The method involves walking on a treadmill that is inclined at 12%, for 30 minutes, at a speed of 3 mph. That's it. No running, no jumping, no fancy equipment. Just walking.
Where does the 12-3-30 workout come from? Is 12-3-30 suitable for everyone? Is it really effective for weight loss? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Where does Father's Day come from?
What is retinol, the miracle anti ageing skincare treatment?
What is the best time of day to take a shower?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/16/2023 • 5 minutes, 2 seconds
Where does Father's Day come from?
Father’s Day is a holiday that honours fathers and celebrates their role in society. It’s celebrated in the United Kingdom on the third Sunday of June, but it wasn’t always a national holiday. In fact, it was imported from the United States, where it started in the early 20th century.
The idea of Father’s Day was first proposed by Sonora Smart Dodd, a woman from Spokane, Washington, who wanted to show her appreciation for her father, William Jackson Smart. He was a Civil War veteran and a widower who raised six children by himself.
Who came up with the idea of Father’s Day and why? How did Father’s Day become a national holiday in the United States? Is Father’s Day celebrated in other countries? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is retinol, the miracle anti ageing skincare treatment?
What is the best time of day to take a shower?
How can I recognise ultra-processed foods?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
Why should I avoid showering after a workout?
Because moving and doing regular physical activity is important for our physical and mental health! Listen again to our episodes about sport!
After an intense and sweaty workout, the first thing most of us want to do is jump into the shower to relax our muscles and wash off the sweat. However, that’s not actually the best idea. Showering too soon after a workout can have harmful effects on our health.
Really? Like what? Is it better to take a hot or cold shower? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : September 30th, 2022
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the best time of day to take a shower?
How can I recognise ultra-processed foods?
How does the 3-30-300 rule affect my mental health?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
Why do we get pins and needles?
We all know what it feels like to get pins and needles. It usually happens when we’ve been in the same position for too long, sleeping on one of our arms for example. Bad posture when seated can make this more likely to happen.
It’s a slightly uncomfortable feeling of numbness and tingling, as if someone was raking your skin repeatedly with small pointed objects. That’s where the name “pins and needles” comes from, which goes back to the mid-19th century, according to word-detective.com. There is a scientific term for the sensation too by the way: paresthesia.
Where does the pins and needles reaction come from? Can it be related to diseases ? When should we worry? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is retinol, the miracle anti ageing skincare treatment?
What is the best time of day to take a shower?
How can I recognise ultra-processed foods?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/14/2023 • 4 minutes
Is excuseflation contributing to rising food prices?
It won’t have escaped your attention that the price of your weekly shopping basket at the supermarket has gone up significantly in the last year. Indeed, recent data from Kantar suggests that families are now spending an extra £16 per week on food shopping, due to inflation. More and more people are being plunged into food insecurity. But what can be done?
Well, in late May 2023, UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt warned that new rules could be brought in to force supermarkets to treat shoppers fairly. And Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey has previously said that interest rates will continue increasing if companies keep increasing food prices.
What is excuseflation? Can we say that inflation is fake ? Which companies are the worst culprits? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is retinol, the miracle anti ageing skincare treatment?
What is the best time of day to take a shower?
How can I recognise ultra-processed foods?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
What is retinol, the miracle anti ageing skincare treatment?
Retinol is a form of vitamin A, which is essential for healthy skin. It has many benefits such as smoothing wrinkles, exfoliating dead cells, clearing pores, and fading dark spots.
Retinol works by stimulating the production of collagen, which is the protein that gives your skin strength and structure, and by speeding up the turnover of skin cells, which means it helps remove old cells from the surface of your skin and reveal fresh ones underneath.
How to use retinol? What should you be aware of before using a retinol? What is the difference between retinoid and retinol? Who should avoid using retinol? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the best time of day to take a shower?
How can I recognise ultra-processed foods?
What is Karoshi, the dangerous overwork epidemic?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
How does the "Scully Effect" raise young women's interest in science fields?
The musical film The Little Mermaid was released in cinemas on 24 May 2023. This movie highlights the importance of representations in the media. This effect has a name: the Scully Effect.
The combination made for an unprecedented representation of women on TV at the time, with audiences far more accustomed to seeing scientists played by white men. The fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics are grouped together under the name of STEM professions. And Dana Scully was one of the first female characters in such a field to feature on prime-time TV, which would inspire a generation of young women to start careers in STEM professions. The phenomenon has become referred to as the Scully Effect.
Is there any data to back it up? Why did Scully become such an inspirational figure? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : October 7th, 2022
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the best time of day to take a shower?
How can I recognise ultra-processed foods?
How does the 3-30-300 rule affect my mental health?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
What is the best time of day to take a shower?
YouGov data from 2019 showed that 49% of Brits shower once per day, while 20% do so 4 to 6 times per week. And 6% even shower more than once per day! That’s despite dermatologists saying that we don’t really need to shower every day.
According to health professionals, both routines come with certain benefits. You might want to know the pros and cons of each option. For example, a morning shower can wake you up and boost your creativity for the day ahead.
What about evening showers then? So, does the evening shower win? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is wellness syndrome?
What is the medication Ozempic and why is it being used for weight loss?
What are subway shirts, the viral anti-harassment trend?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
How can I recognise ultra-processed foods?
What do chicken nuggets, margarine and instant noodles all have in common? Wel, they may look tasty, but they’re loaded with sugar, salt, fat and chemicals that strip away their nutritional value. That’s due to the heavy processing that goes into making them, which sees them completely transformed from the original raw ingredients.
And they’re increasingly ever present on our shelves and in our stomachs. In 2022, the National Institute for Health and Care Research found that ultra-processed foods made up almost two-thirds of Britain’s school meals. Furthermore, the British Medical Journal has reported that ultra-processed foods account for 56.8% of total energy intake in the UK diet.
Can you identify them by looking at the ingredient lists on product packaging? What’s the difference between processed foods and ultra-processed foods? Why should we limit the consumption of ultra-processed products? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is wellness syndrome?
What is the medication Ozempic and why is it being used for weight loss?
What are subway shirts, the viral anti-harassment trend?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/11/2023 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
How does the 3-30-300 rule affect my mental health?
In our increasingly urbanised world, it’s important to make time for reconnecting with nature. The latest study to grab our attention in this area was conducted by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health and published in December 2022. It looked into the so-called 3-30-300 rule, which was theorised by Spanish forest researcher Cecil Konijnendijk in 2021.
It's made up of three criteria, which each give our mental health a boost: we should have three trees in view from our home, live in a neighbourhood with 30% tree canopy cover and live within 300 metres of a park. Researchers interviewed over 3,000 residents in Barcelona and found that less than 5% of them were lucky enough to live in an area which met all three of the 3-30-300 rule’s criteria. Indeed, 22.4% of respondents had none of the elements.
Interesting, so what did we learn from the latest study? What is it about green spaces that makes us calmer? What are the best ways to apply the 3-30-300 rule? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : December 28th, 2022
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is wellness syndrome?
What is the medication Ozempic and why is it being used for weight loss?
What are the warning signs of a toxic friendship?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/11/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is Karoshi, the dangerous overwork epidemic?
The subject we’re talking about today is most associated with Japan, but is also relevant in many other parts of the world. The Japanese word “Karoshi” means "death by overwork". In a broad sense, it refers to workers who die suddenly from a bodily failure like a stroke or heart attack due to extreme stress and long working hours.
Let’s look into the causes and consequences of a phenomenon that affects millions of workers in Japan and beyond. Overworking in Japan actually became very common during the post WW2 economic boom, when the country rapidly rose to the status of the world's second-largest economy, after the United States.
Is "Karoshi" a recent issue? what can be done to prevent Karoshi? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the medication Ozempic and why is it being used for weight loss?
What are subway shirts, the viral anti-harassment trend?
What is the optimism bias?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/10/2023 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What are happy hormones?
Global Wellness Day is on June 10th 2023. The ideal day to learn how to boost our so-called happy hormones in natural ways
A recent scientific brief from the World Health Organisation, explained that anxiety and depression had increased by 25% worldwide over the first year of the Covid 19 pandemic. The massive rise was mostly down to social isolation and multiple stress factors like fear of infection and financial worries. It’s important to know that we can actually control our mood to some extent. It’s possible to boost our so-called happy hormones in natural ways, by opting for specific foods, activities and behaviours.
So how can we stimulate the production of these hormones and neurotransmitters? Why do they say that oxytocin is the love hormone? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : May 9th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are subway shirts, the viral anti-harassment trend?
What is the optimism bias?
Is veganism really the best choice?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/10/2023 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
What is wellness syndrome?
"Here’s my yoga instructor’s number”, "You must try this detox juice", "Download this diet app right now!". Have you ever heard people give this kind of ‘friendly advice’ to others in the past. Perhaps people have said things like that to you, with a little too much insistence for your liking.
These days, there’s a certain demand for people to pursue physical and mental well-being, which has become increasingly normalized. The term “wellness syndrome” has been used to describe this phenomenon.
Where does the term "wellness syndrome" come from? Isn’t taking care of oneself a good thing? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the medication Ozempic and why is it being used for weight loss?
What are subway shirts, the viral anti-harassment trend?
What is the optimism bias?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What is the medication Ozempic and why is it being used for weight loss?
Ozempic is a brand name for a medication called semaglutide, which is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), to treat type 2 diabetes. It works by mimicking a natural hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels and is taken through weekly injections.
Ozempic can also lower your risk of having serious heart problems, such as heart attack or stroke, if you have type 2 diabetes and heart disease. But Ozempic is not only used for diabetes. Some people are also using it for weight loss, even though it is not approved by the FDA for this purpose.
How does Ozempic work? How does it help weightloss? What are the side effects? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the optimism bias?
Is veganism really the best choice?
Is it bad to hold in your pee?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
What are the warning signs of a toxic friendship?
June 8th is Best Friend Day ! A chance to reflect on how important friends are in our lives. Generally speaking, having friends is a positive thing which brings us moments of fun and joy. But toxic friendships can exist too ...Let’s talk about some of the red flags that can help you identify them.
It basically means the friendship has a negative impact on your life, often without you realising. You might feel worse after spending time together, for example, which is indeed one of the red flags to look out for.
First things first, why is it called a toxic friendship? What are the most common toxic friend behaviours? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : Jully 30th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Is it bad to hold in your pee?
Why does looking at the sun make me sneeze?
How to spot a heart attack if you are a woman?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
What are subway shirts, the viral anti-harassment trend?
As we head towards another summer, isn’t it a relief to be able to shed the layers and wear lighter clothing when out and about? Well, if you’re a woman, you might have mixed feelings about that, due to the constant threat of unwanted attention from strangers when wearing summer clothes in public.
And a lot of the time, it goes further than just unwanted attention. A YouGov survey released in January 2020 suggested that over half of London women experience some form of sexual harassment on public transport.
When did the practice of wearing subway shirts first start? But do subway shirts really work? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is it bad to hold in your pee?
Why does looking at the sun make me sneeze?
What is “Act your Wage”, Gen Z’s latest work-life trend?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
What is the optimism bias?
Today we're going to talk about a cognitive bias that causes people to believe, often mistakenly, that they are less likely to experience negative events and more likely to experience positive events than others. Estimates suggest that 80% of us display what’s known as the optimism bias.
For example, we might think that we are less likely to get sick, lose our job, or have a car accident than the average person. We might also think that we are more likely to live longer, be successful, or win the lottery than others.
Why do we have such a bias? And how does it affect our decisions and actions? What are the drawbacks of optimism bias? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is it bad to hold in your pee?
Why does looking at the sun make me sneeze?
What is “Act your Wage”, Gen Z’s latest work-life trend?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
Is veganism really the best choice?
Veganism is a lifestyle that excludes all animal products from one’s diet and other aspects of life. That means no meat, eggs or dairy but it can also include things like honey, leather, wool, silk, or anything else that comes from animals.
People choose this lifestyle for different reasons, some for ethical reasons, others for environmental reasons, and some do it for health reasons. Some studies have found that vegan diets can improve heart health and lower risk of some cancers, such as breast, prostate, and colon cancer.
Is veganism better for your health than eating meat? Is it better for the environment? And for the animals? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is it bad to hold in your pee?
Why does looking at the sun make me sneeze?
What is “Act your Wage”, Gen Z’s latest work-life trend?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
Could tourism quotas help preserve endangered local environments?
5th June 2023 was World Environment Day and summer holiday period is upon us. It’s worth bearing in mind that overtourism has become a real nuisance. As tourists, it’s not exactly fun being in a highly overcrowded area, but it’s even worse for the natural environment. Could tourism quotas be one way of addressing the problems?
In mid-June 2022, the island of Corsica brought in quotas for three iconic sites: the Bavella needles, the Restonica valley and the Lavezzi islands. 180,000 tourists visit these sites each year, a figure which is expected to rise to 200,000 by 2026. Tourists will now need to make advance reservations online in order to visit them, with parking spots also limited. The Lavezzi islands will have a particularly strict tourism quota of 2,000 outside visitors per day.
Are there similar examples elsewhere in the world? Will tourism quotas start spreading everywhere now? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : 7 juillet 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Is it bad to hold in your pee?
Why does looking at the sun make me sneeze?
How to spot a heart attack if you are a woman?
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
Is it bad to hold in your pee?
I’m sure you can imagine a few scenarios in which you might have resisted the need to pee in the past. It may have been due to the toilets being unclean or closed. Sometimes, a little more privacy would be appreciated, especially at work, for example.
There are a number of factors which influence the number of times we pee over the course of a day. These include age, bladder size, the weather, any medication we’re taking, what we drink and the amount we drink for example. Pregnant women also tend to pee more often. On average though, we go to the toilet between four and seven times a day.
What explains urinating very frequently or infrequently? Can holding in pee lead to a urinary tract infection? What should you do when you have difficulty holding in urine? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is limb lengthening, the cosmetic procedure going viral on social media?
Where does Mother’s day come from?
What is ergophobia, the fear which can throw our careers off track?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
Why does looking at the sun make me sneeze?
We usually sneeze to protect ourselves from irritants such as pollen, dust, or chemicals. But there are some people who consistently sneeze when they look at the sun. In fact, this affects from 10 to 35% of us when we move from being in the shade to bright light, according to PBS.org.
If it happens to you, perhaps you’ve been wondering if it’s an allergy to sunlight, but actually it isn’t. The reaction triggered by sudden exposure to light is called the photic sneeze reflex. It is a congenital physiological anomaly that’s pretty common and totally harmless.
Why does this reaction occur? What happens in the body when we sneeze? Should you suppress a sneeze? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is limb lengthening, the cosmetic procedure going viral on social media?
Where does Mother’s day come from?
What is ergophobia, the fear which can throw our careers off track?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
How to spot a heart attack if you are a woman?
A heart attack can be deadly but thankfully there are life saving treatments out there. However, research from the British Heart foundation has found that women are not receiving the same standard of care as men.
Although heart disease and heart attacks are more common in men it is more likely to be fatal for women. In fact heart attacks kill twice as many women in the UK than breast cancer does.
What is causing this? What symptoms should you look out for? What is being done to address this issue? We answer all your questions in under 3 minutes!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Where does Mother’s day come from?
Why were the queen’s bees told of her death?
What is ergophobia, the fear which can throw our careers off track?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
What is “Act your Wage”, Gen Z’s latest work-life trend?
After "quiet quitting" and "conscious quitting", here’s yet another new phenomenon related to the world of work that’s growing in popularity. “Acting your wage” involves putting in a certain amount of work, that’s in proportion to your salary.
In other words, no going above and beyond; no extra hours and no unattainable goals. And no additional responsibilities outside of your job description, unless your wage goes up first.
Where does the movement come from? Why are people resorting to "Acting their wage"? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Where does Mother’s day come from?
What is ergophobia, the fear which can throw our careers off track?
Why are brain chips becoming a reality?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
What’s the best sleeping position?
Side, stomach or back; what kind of sleeper are you? Some people say that our sleeping position reflects what kind of person we are. ..
While we can’t really comment on how much truth there is to that, we can say for sure that it has an impact on sleep quality and consequently our mood in the morning. Let’s take a few minutes to talk about our personal favourites.
Well I usually sleep on my back with my arms over my head! Is that good or bad? What about stomach sleeping? What about the snorers out there? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : August 6th, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Where does Mother’s day come from?
Why were the queen’s bees told of her death?
What is ergophobia, the fear which can throw our careers off track?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
What is limb lengthening, the cosmetic procedure going viral on social media?
Many of us would like to be a couple of inches taller, given all the advantages that seem to come with being tall. We feel like we might have a better love life or be perceived as more powerful for example. But there’s not really anything we can do about our height. Or is there?
Going back to the 1940s, Soviet doctor Gavril Ilizarov realised that following a fracture, bones like the femur tend to gradually expand to fill the void left behind. He pioneered certain techniques to treat mutilated soldiers returning from World War II. And still to this day, techniques inspired by the work of Ilizarov are still being used. In most cases, this surgery is performed for reconstructive purposes, but bone lengthening is increasingly requested for cosmetic reasons.
How does limb lengthening work? Why is this surgery increasingly requested? Are there any risks to this procedure? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Where does Mother’s day come from?
What is ergophobia, the fear which can throw our careers off track?
Why are brain chips becoming a reality?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
Where does Mother’s day come from?
Mother’s Day is celebrated in many countries around the world, but not always on the same date. For some it’s observed on the second Sunday of May, for others it falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent but it can also be on the first Sunday of May; the last Sunday of May or even the first Sunday in June.
Well, that’s because Mother’s Day has different origins and meanings in different cultures and regions. The early Christian celebration of mothers was called Mothering Sunday. It became less popular in the 16th century, when England broke away from the Catholic Church but was revived in the early 20th century by a woman named Constance Smith...
Why do we have different dates for Mother’s Day? How did it become a national holiday ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is ergophobia, the fear which can throw our careers off track?
Why are brain chips becoming a reality?
How can I use the 80/20 method to save money?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
Why were the queen’s bees told of her death?
Queen Elizabeth II was crowned on June 2nd, 1953. Today, it is difficult to comprehend the Queen's death. The announcement of the sad news of the Queen’s passing, like all of the events following her death, followed strict protocol. The Prime Minister was informed using a pre-arranged code “London Bridge is down”. And somewhere, deep in the gardens of Buckinham palace, the royal beekeeper informed the royal bees.
That’s right the beekeeper, John Chapple, who’s been the Queen’s beekeeper for 15 years and takes care of up to a million bees, personally went to each hive in both Buckingham palace and Clarence house, to let them know that the queen was dead. Interviewed for the daily mail he said ‘You knock on each hive and say, ‘The mistress is dead, but don't you go. Your master will be a good master to you.’ He then said a little prayer and put a black ribbon on each hive.
Why does he tell the bees? Where does this tradition come from ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : 22nd September 2022
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I use the 80/20 method to save money?
Should my next holiday be a staycation?
How can I beat inflation at the supermarket?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
What is ergophobia, the fear which can throw our careers off track?
Many of us have joked in the past about being allergic to work, or afraid of it, but did you know that there’s actually a real phobia of work?Have you ever felt anxious or stressed about going to work? Do you dread the thought of facing your boss, your colleagues, or your tasks? Do you avoid applying for jobs or quit them easily? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might have ergophobia.
It’s an extreme, irrational, and debilitating fear of working and of the features of work, such as specific tasks, social relationships, or speaking during meetings. It is considered a form of social phobia or performance anxiety, and is also recognised as a derivative of burnout, due to constantly feeling pressure or excessive expectations at work.
How do people develop ergophobia? What are the symptoms? Can ergophobia be cured? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I use the 80/20 method to save money?
What are the four types of attachment in our relationships?
Why are we obsessed with presenteeism?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/31/2023 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
Why are brain chips becoming a reality?
In late May 2023, Elon Musk’s neurotech startup Neuralink announced that it had received authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to carry out its first in-human clinical trials.
Neuralink's brain chips have already allowed monkeys to play video games simply by following the screen with their eyes. The hope is that the technology will allow paralysed humans to communicate by moving mouse cursors and typing using their minds. In the long run, there are hopes the technology could even treat or cure other conditions like blindness and mental illness.
What is a brain implant? Why implant chips in the brain? How soon will humans have access to brain chips then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I use the 80/20 method to save money?
What are the four types of attachment in our relationships?
Why are we obsessed with presenteeism?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/31/2023 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
How can I use the 80/20 method to save money?
If you’re like many people, you probably want to save more money but hate the idea of budgeting. Maybe you don’t like tracking every single expense or feeling restricted by spending categories. Maybe you just want a simple and flexible way to manage your money without too much hassle.
That’s where the 80/20 method comes in. Also known as the anti-budget or the “pay yourself first” budget, it’s a simple approach to saving money that doesn’t require a lot of maths or planning. It works by dividing your take-home income into two parts: 20% for savings and 80% for spending.
How does the 80/20 method work? Why should I use the 80/20 method? How can I use the 80/20 method? What are some drawbacks of the 80/20 method? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What are the four types of attachment in our relationships?
Why are we obsessed with presenteeism?
What is the snowball method of paying back debt?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 1 second
Should my next holiday be a staycation?
May 29th was Spring Bank Holiday in UK. Going on holiday is cool, but not always within reach for everyone. It requires time, as you may need to get your leave request approved by your employer, and money. In recent years, a new kind of holiday has been catching on: the staycation.
It generally refers to a trip which doesn’t require any overnight accommodation. The idea comes from the United States and really took off following the financial crisis from 2007 onwards. Middle class Americans no longer had the means to go on holiday, so they got creative. The idea then spread to Europe, and more specifically the UK, in 2009, when currency exchange rates became unfavourable.
Isn’t that kind of the opposite of a holiday? Is it really possible to relax while surrounded by reminders of work and stress? How has the staycation concept evolved in the last few years? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : 16th of August, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why are we obsessed with presenteeism?
What is the snowball method of paying back debt?
What is Face Wine, a viral beauty product from Tiktok?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
How can I beat inflation at the supermarket?
As of late May 2023, inflation in the UK finally dropped below double digits, from 10.1% to 8.7%, according to the Office for National Statistics. But the food consumer price index inflation rate is still over 19.1%.
Back in March, the Food Foundation think tank revealed that the number of children living in food poverty in the UK had doubled to 4m in just a year.
How to save money easily at the supermarket? What about buying in bulk? Which are the least expensive brands? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why are we obsessed with presenteeism?
What is the snowball method of paying back debt?
What is PimEyes, the powerful tool ending online anonymity?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/29/2023 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What are the four types of attachment in our relationships?
The types of attachment were theorized by British psychologist John Bowlby in the 1950s. They are widely used to help us understand how we react to situations in our relationships, whether it be with romantic partners, friends or family members.
Bowlby relied on research on the impact of early separations between infants and their mothers, and emphasized the importance of attachment relationships in the social and emotional development of children, as well as their long-term mental health.
What exactly is an attachment style? And what about the other two types? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why are we obsessed with presenteeism?
What is the snowball method of paying back debt?
What is PimEyes, the powerful tool ending online anonymity?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
Are my smart devices spying on me?
Smart devices can be very handy, but increasingly people are worried about exactly how smart they are, what they know and what they are doing with our data especially after a rogue Roomba ended up sharing embarrassing photos of one young woman on the toilet.
Smart devices are electronic devices or gadgets that have the ability to interact, connect and share information with other smart devices. It is often associated with the term the ‘internet of things’. The Internet of things refers to a network of devices that gather data and share information with each other through the internet. This includes things like smartphones, fitness trackers, smart tvs, smart speakers and much more.
What are smart devices? What are the advantages of smart devices? How can I protect my data from misuse? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : 17th January, 2022
To listen to more episodes, click here:
What is the snowball method of paying back debt?
What is Face Wine, a viral beauty product from Tiktok?
What is PimEyes, the powerful tool ending online anonymity?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
How can I free myself from negative thoughts?
According to American neuroscientist Daniel Amen, a specialist in brain imaging, we produce 60,000 thoughts per day, and a staggering 80% of these thoughts are negative.
That means we have 48,000 negative thoughts on a daily basis. Sometimes we just can’t seem to fight them off, but thankfully there are ways to cope with them.
How can we counteract the tendency? How can we distance ourselves from these negative thoughts? Any other advice? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why are we obsessed with presenteeism?
What is the snowball method of paying back debt?
What is PimEyes, the powerful tool ending online anonymity?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
What does the future hold for Marvel Cinematic Universe?
On May 3, 2023, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 was released. It has received positive reviews from critics and has grossed over $660 million worldwide, becoming the third-highest-grossing film of 2023.
Marvel has long been one of the most prominent and iconic publishers in the world of American comics. From the turn of the century onwards, its cinematic adaptations breathed new life into the franchise. It started out with the somewhat timid X-men film in the year 2000, but really took off with the launch of the shared MCU universe in 2008, when Iron Man was released. Since then, superhero films have become a genre of their own and even took over the blockbuster format. A whopping 28 MCU films have been released in cinemas in total, split across four phases. And with Ms Marvel having recently landed on Disney Plus and Thor: Love and Thunder hitting the big screen next month, the Marvel Cinematic Universe is showing no signs of slowing down.
Has the MCU managed to keep up momentum since Avengers Endgame? What can we expect to see in coming years then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : 25th June 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Is the fertility cliff real?
Why do we love hate-watching certain films and series?
How can I work better from home?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
Why are we obsessed with presenteeism?
The trend of workplace presenteeism has increased in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 crisis. A September 2020 report by RAND Europe suggests that presenteeism is mainly driven by stress, suboptimal mental health, lack of sleep and poor financial well-being, which have all intensified during the pandemic.
Presenteeism is the practice of being present at one's place of work for more hours than is required, especially as a manifestation of insecurity about one's job. It can also refer to the practice of coming to work despite illness, injury or anxiety, which often results in reduced productivity.
How does presenteeism manifest itself? And what are the causes? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the snowball method of paying back debt?
What is PimEyes, the powerful tool ending online anonymity?
Is the fertility cliff real?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
What is the snowball method of paying back debt?
The snowball method is based on the idea of paying off your smallest debt first, while making minimum payments on the rest.
Then, you take the money you were paying on that debt and apply it to the next smallest debt, and so on until you’re debt-free. This way, you create a snowball effect that builds momentum and motivation as you see your debts disappear one by one.
What are the advantages? What are the disadvantages? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is PimEyes, the powerful tool ending online anonymity?
Is the fertility cliff real?
How can I work better from home?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
What is Face Wine, a viral beauty product from Tiktok?
May 25th is National Wine Day in the United States. The opportunity to listen again to this episode on a particular beauty technique on Tik Tok, made with wine...
Over the last few years, Chinese platform Tiktok has taken over as the social network of choice for teens and young adults. Unsurprisingly then, it’s also become a prime target for influencers and brands looking to promote their products, ahead of Instagram, Youtube and Snapchat. Since the start of May 2022, a beauty product called Grape Water has been getting a lot of attention. It’s been dubbed ‘Face Wine’ and it’s said to clarify skin.
What’s so special about the product? And how did it end up going viral? What other products have enjoyed success thanks to Tiktok? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : 22nd June 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Is the fertility cliff real?
Why do we love hate-watching certain films and series?
How can I work better from home?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/25/2023 • 3 minutes, 57 seconds
What is PimEyes, the powerful tool ending online anonymity?
Launched by a Polish startup in 2017, PimEyes is a powerful facial recognition software tool, which uses reverse image search technology. Just like with Google image search, users can submit an image of a person’s face and Pimeyes will find all images of that person online, providing links to the websites where they are located.
It can be helpful for locating images that are difficult to find elsewhere, but there are also a host of privacy concerns. Pimeyes has been labelled the “most disturbing website on the internet” and “a stalker’s dream”.
What is facial recognition? How does PimEyes work in practice? Why is this software problematic ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is the fertility cliff real?
How can I work better from home?
Why do we get bad breath?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
What is Munchausen Syndrome?
If you have heard of Munchausen Syndrome before, it’s far more likely you’ve seen it represented in popular culture than in real life. Like a lot of psychological syndromes, it’s used as a dramatic device in many films and series, like Sharp Objects or The Politician to name just a couple.
The most recent example is The Act, which was created by Nick Antosca and Michelle Dean, and first appeared on Hulu in 2019. The series was inspired by a real-life case in the United States, and tells the story of a mother who convinces her daughter and the world that she suffers from leukemia, muscular dystrophy, and other disorders.
Why would anyone do something like that? Where does the Munchausen part come from? Why is this syndrome so prevalent in pop culture? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is the fertility cliff real?
How can I work better from home?
Why do we get bad breath?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
Is the fertility cliff real?
Many women have heard of the so-called “fertility cliff”, the idea that their chances of getting pregnant drop dramatically after the age of 35 and, people who do choose to have a baby are labeled “geriatric” or “high risk” leading what is called ‘care cascade’ such greater monitoring and testing which can be intrusive and unnecessary.
This concept first came about from a study done in 2004, however, they used data from French birth records from the 17th and 18th centuries, which is not really relevant to modern women as it was based on a population with very different living conditions, health care, nutrition, and life expectancy compared to modern women.
Where did the fertility cliff come from? Does fertility change with age? What are some other factors that affect fertility? What should you do if you want to get pregnant and you are over 35? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I work better from home?
Why do we get bad breath?
How can I stop snacking?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
Why do we love hate-watching certain films and series?
Love Island is a typical example of a show that people love to hate-watch. The practice has become more and more widespread in recent years with the rise of streaming platforms. It seems mutual hatred makes for a strong bond!
The term was actually invented back in 2012 by Emily Nussbaum, a well-known critic for the New Yorker. She talked about how she couldn’t stop watching musical drama series Smash, despite finding it terrible from start to finish. It’s along the same lines as the “So bad it’s good” trend, which Ryan Bailey used to name his hugely popular podcast, which explored all the pop culture we love to hate.
How exactly does one hate watch then? Why do people keep watching shows they don’t like? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : 15th of July, 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do our stomachs rumble?
Why does hair turn grey?
What are umbrella species?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
How can I work better from home?
Remote work was thrust upon many companies as soon as the Covid-19 pandemic hit. All of a sudden, workers had to perform their job effectively in a pretty different environment, which isn’t always as easy as it might sound.
Some struggled to be as efficient as in the office, a potential source of frustration for employee and manager alike. If you’re wondering how you can improve your productivity and preserve your mental health, then this is the episode for you!
Can’t I just work in the same way as in the office? Isn't it difficult to get started when you're all alone? What’s the best space to use for remote work? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do our stomachs rumble?
Why does hair turn grey?
What does it mean to be a seenager?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
Why do we get bad breath?
According to The Cleveland Clinic, around one in four people are affected by bad breath. It’s also known as halitosis and bad breath can be a source of embarrassment. It’s sometimes caused by consuming certain well-known foods, like garlic, onion, cheese, and coffee for example.
But it can also be a symptom of an underlying health condition, such as pneumonia, gum recession, kidney disease and gastrointestinal disorders.
Do bacteria have anything to do with it? How can we avoid bad breath? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do our stomachs rumble?
Why does hair turn grey?
What does it mean to be a seenager?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/21/2023 • 3 minutes, 44 seconds
Could insects replace meat?
Although it is quite usual to find insects in markets in both Africa and Asia it is rather more unusual for people in the West to eat them.
However, with increased awareness of animal welfare and environmental concerns around eating meat people are beginning to think more seriously about insects as food rather than something to be swatted. The problem is that a lot of people find eating bugs pretty off putting, but now scientists have discovered that mealworms, traditionally used as pet food or as bait for fishing, have a rather meat-like flavour when cooked with sugar and could maybe offer new hope to the insects-as-food debate.
What are the benefits of eating insects? What are the disadvantages of eating meat? So will we be seeing insects in supermarkets soon? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : 27 septembre 2022
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do our stomachs rumble?
Why does hair turn grey?
What are umbrella species?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
How can I stop snacking?
Snacking is a bad habit that can have a significant impact on your weight and health in the long term. It can be tricky to beat, so here are our top tips to stop snacking during the day.
When the body is in need of energy, it asks for fuel to function, which is totally natural. But you may then want to ask yourself why it didn’t get enough energy from your last meal.
Why do we sometimes feel like we need to snack? How can we resist those urges then? Should you eat more during meals? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do our stomachs rumble?
Why does hair turn grey?
What does it mean to be a seenager?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
Should I walk 10000 steps a day?
Most of us are familiar with the idea that you need to take 10 thousand steps per day to stay healthy but getting to this magic number is not that easy. The 10,000-step target first became popular in Japan in the 1960s.
A clockmaker capitalising on people's new interest in fitness following the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games made a pedometer with a name that, when written in Japanese characters, resembled a walking man and coincidentally translated as “10,000-steps metre.” A study of over 78,000 people in the UK between 2013 and 2015 using wearable trackers was published in the journals JAMA Internal Medicine and JAMA Neurology.
Where did we get the number 10 thousand from? Does that mean that we do not need to take 10 steps? So how many steps should I be aiming for per day? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
Date of first release : January 19th, 2023
To listen to more episodes, click here:
What does it mean to be a seenager?
Why do we blow out candles on birthdays?
How can I spot a liar?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
Why do our stomachs rumble?
It can be embarrassing when your stomach rumbles in public, but it’s a totally natural bodily function. The scientific name for those rumbles or growls is borborygmi, a term invented by the ancient Greeks. We tend to associate stomach rumbles with hunger, but that’s not totally true.
In reality, our stomachs rumble regularly, whether we’re hungry or not. It's just that when the stomach is empty, the noise becomes louder. That’s because when the stomach is full, its contents muffle the sounds.
What actually causes the rumblings? Can certain factors increase stomach rumbling? Should I be worried if the rumblings are intense? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What does it mean to be a seenager?
Why do we blow out candles on birthdays?
How can I spot a liar?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/19/2023 • 3 minutes, 59 seconds
Why does hair turn grey?
Greying hair can be triggered for a number of reasons, genetics; some people’s hair turns grey earlier than others. Stress, a recent study in mice showed that stress can cause stem cells to leave the hair follicle and migrate to other parts of the body, leaving no cells to produce melanin. Some Illnesses like thyroid disease and of course ageing.
But could the days of grey hair be over? Possibly. A new study conducted by scientists from New York University Grossman School of Medicine have discovered why hair turns grey and how to stop it happening. Well at least in mice.
What are the cells that produce hair colour and how do they work? So why is hair going grey? What are the implications of this finding for humans and hair greying? What can you do in the meantime? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What does it mean to be a seenager?
Why do we blow out candles on birthdays?
How can I spot a liar?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
What are umbrella species?
Within an ecosystem there are many different species, and it can be difficult for conservationists to come up with specific strategies to protect every single one of them. That’s why some have started focusing on umbrella species, because of the benefits that protecting them has for other co-occurring species.
It’s as if they’re putting an umbrella over the entire surrounding ecosystem. They help conservationists select locations for reserves, establish the minimum size, and to generally better understand ecosystems i.e. their composition, structure and processes.
What are some examples of umbrella species? Funny, a lot of those are also the most popular species in humans’ eyes, aren’t they? What about umbrella species in Europe? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : 11th June 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I spot a liar?
What is the Cannes Film Festival ?
What is the great unretirement?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
What does it mean to be a seenager?
You may have heard the term "seenager" being used lately. It's a new buzzword that describes a demographic group that's becoming increasingly important in our society.
In simple terms, a seenager is a senior teenager. It refers to people aged 55 and over who are still young at heart and refuse to let their age define them. Seenagers are active, social, and engaged in their communities. They're not content to sit back and watch the world go by – they want to be a part of it.
So why are we seeing more and more seenagers these days? What are some of the characteristics of a seenager? Why is it important to recognize and celebrate the seenager demographic? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I spot a liar?
What is the Cannes Film Festival ?
Is the five second rule a real thing?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/17/2023 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
Why do we blow out candles on birthdays?
It’s a scene that plays out in millions of homes across the world every day. There’s a sense of anticipation as the lights go out, only for the room to be lit up by candles as a friend or family member brings in a yummy-looking birthday cake.
Guests start singing more or less in unison, more in less in tune, depending on how much alcohol has been consumed, and the birthday girl or boy politely waits until they finish before blowing the candles out.
When did the tradition start out? Why do we make a wish when we blow out the candles? Can blowing candles out over a cake spread germs? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I spot a liar?
What is the Cannes Film Festival ?
Is the five second rule a real thing?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/17/2023 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
How can I spot a liar?
Lying is the act of deliberately making a false statement or concealing the truth. People might lie for different reasons, like to avoid getting into trouble, to get something they want, to make someone feel better, or to look good in front of others.
However, lying is not always easy or comfortable. When people lie, they have to deal with two conflicting realities: the truth and the lie. This can make them feel stressed or nervous. They have to remember what they said, watch how they act, and guess how others will react. They may also feel guilty, scared, or worried about being found out or exposed.
So how can you tell if someone is lying to you? What are some verbal clues? What are some non-verbal clues? What changes for them physiological? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is the five second rule a real thing?
Why do we get addicted to social media?
What are the dangers of using Botox?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/16/2023 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
What is the Cannes Film Festival ?
Every year in May, film stars and fans flock to the French city of Cannes for a 10-day celebration of cinema, or as it’s referred to in the host country, “the seventh art”. This year though, the festival the festival will take place on May 1th to 27th 2023
Already at the time of recording there have been a number of attention-grabbing moments, including a hero’s welcome for Tom Cruise, who received an honorary Palme d’Or, a fly past from the French air force, an unexpected video message from Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky and a topless protester storming the red carpet to highlight sexual violence against women in Ukraine.
Why does it stand out so much from other events in France? How does the official competition work? What about the other films that aren’t part of the official selection? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
Date of first release : 28 mai 2022
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the great unretirement?
Is the five second rule a real thing?
Why are barcodes set to disappear?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
What is the great unretirement?
The great un-retirement is a term that has been coined to explain the fact that people are working longer or even coming out of retirement completely to return to work. Find out why this is happening in this episode.
In a poll by Rest Less, a digital community that supports the over-50s, 32% of members said they would consider returning to work or that they were already working again. And statistics back this up. The Office for National Statistics reports that there are now more people aged 50 and older in work or looking for work than before the pandemic, while figures from the Centre for Ageing Better show that the number of people aged 65 or over entering the workforce rose by 173,000 in the first quarter of 2022.
Why are so many people coming out of retirement? What problems do older people face when looking for a job? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do we get addicted to social media?
What are the dangers of using Botox?
How can I wake up refreshed every morning?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
Is the five second rule a real thing?
How do you react when a piece of food you’re eating falls to the floor? Some people would throw it away in disgust, while others would still eat it, perhaps after rinsing it under water or blowing on it. Of course, there’s those that abide by the five second rule. That’s the popular belief that suggests any food is still fit for consumption as long as it hasn’t been on the floor for longer than five seconds.
So does the time a piece of food spends on the ground affect how likely it is to be contaminated by germs and other bacteria? Back in 2016, researchers from Rutgers University in the United States looked into the matter from a scientific approach, and published their findings in the Applied and Environmental Microbiology journal.
How did they test the five second rule? What impact did the surface and food type have? So does eating food that’s been on the floor make you sick then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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Why do we get addicted to social media?
What are the dangers of using Botox?
What is stealth wealth?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
Why are barcodes set to disappear?
Ever since they were first introduced in the United States in 1973, barcodes have been part of our everyday consumer lives. They helped stores around the world transition to digital, but their days are numbered.
That’s right, traditional barcodes are due to be gradually replaced by 2D versions as part of a worldwide initiative called Sunrise 2027. It’s led by GS1, the nonprofit standards organization that oversees the barcode industry.
How do barcodes actually work? What’s the difference between barcodes and QR codes? Will it change consumption habits? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do we get addicted to social media?
What are the dangers of using Botox?
What is stealth wealth?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
Could Bare Minimum Mondays protect us from burnout?
It’s common to feel a little anxiety on a Sunday evening as your relaxing weekend draws to a close and you start thinking about your return to the office the following morning. Indeed, a YouGovAmerica survey published in 2021 found that 58% of workers said Monday was their least favourite day of the week.
With that in mind, American startup founder Marisa Jo Mayes created and trademarked the Bare Minimum Monday concept in 2023. She promoted it through TikTok, where it went viral. The idea is pretty simple: doing as little as possible on the first workday of the week helps reduce stress and gently get back into your work routine.
What constitutes doing the bare minimum then? I’m not sure my boss will be happy with me doing the bare minimum every Monday! Is there any kind of compromise that will help me have a less stressful start to the week? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do we get addicted to social media?
What are the dangers of using Botox?
What is stealth wealth?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
Why do we get addicted to social media?
A recent report from CyberCrew revealed how UK residents spend an average of 110 minutes per day on social media. Many of us start scrolling before we’ve even got out of bed in the morning, in an almost automatic way.
Social networks can have a similar effect on the brain to certain addictive substances. According to Healthline.com, they stimulate the brain’s reward system. When you log in to your favorite social media platform, you get a burst of dopamine, a chemical that makes you feel good and motivates you to seek more of the same stimulus.
Why do we end up scrolling on Tiktok and Instagram for hours on? How does it work in concrete terms? Is it fair to say that social networks were designed to be addictive? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What are the dangers of using Botox?
What is stealth wealth?
How much sleep should I get each night?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
What are the dangers of using Botox?
Botox is the name of a brand that offers a popular cosmetic treatment that involves injecting a toxin into the facial muscles to reduce wrinkles and signs of aging. The poison that they use, botulinum toxin, blocks the nerve signals that instruct the muscles to contract so make the appearance of fine lines, like crows feet or frown marks appear smoother.
It can also be used in some medical procedures that involve involuntary muscle movement, spasm, sweating or to help migraine. A cosmetic treatment costs between £100 to £350 and lasts for three to four months. But it does have some side effects and complications that people should be aware of before undergoing the procedure.
What are some of the side effects? How can I protect myself from the dangers of Botox? What are some safer and more natural alternatives to Botox? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is stealth wealth?
How much sleep should I get each night?
How do sim swapping scams work?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/11/2023 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
How can I wake up refreshed every morning?
Some people believe they simply can’t function in the morning until they’ve had a cup of coffee. Others seem to be grumpy every morning, as if they’ve got out of the wrong side of the bed.
Of course, a poor night’s sleep can be the cause, whether it be down to stress, not getting to bed early enough, drinking or other physical conditions like sleep apnea. Psychological factors can also come into play, like a lack of motivation in your job or relationship issues. But sleep quality and mental health aren’t the only factors. A lot of us wake up and get up in a pretty suboptimal way.
What’s the best way to wake up then? What about having a lie-in to get extra sleep? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is stealth wealth?
How much sleep should I get each night?
How do sim swapping scams work?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/11/2023 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
Is skipping meals bad for you?
No doubt at some point in your life you’ve skipped a meal, whether it was to save money, lose weight or just because you were too damn busy with work. Maybe you even do it on a regular basis, without really knowing whether it’s good or bad for you.
Skipping meals makes us more likely to snack afterwards, eating food items which are often high in fat and sugar. Another risk is that you compensate by overeating at your next mealtime. By taking on more calories than you need, you’ll accentuate feelings of hunger.
Can I at least skip breakfast? What about when I’m not feeling hungry at all? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is stealth wealth?
What is the European Political Community, the continent’s intergovernmental organization?
How much sleep should I get each night?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/10/2023 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
How does the Matthew Effect help us understand class inequalities?
“The rich get richer and the poor get poorer”, the saying goes. And there’s actually a name for that phenomenon: the Matthew Effect. The term was first coined by sociologists Robert K. Merton and Harriet Zuckerman in 1968, in relation to how “already eminent scientists were given disproportionate credit in cases of collaboration or of independent multiple discoveries.”
In other words, if a group of scientists made a discovery together, with equal input, the most famous one would tend to get the most credit. Unfair, right? But sadly true! The Matthew Effect was not limited to scientific citations. Other researchers found that it also applied to wealth and status in society.
Where does the Matthew part come from? How do rich people get richer? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is stealth wealth?
What is the European Political Community, the continent’s intergovernmental organization?
How much sleep should I get each night?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/10/2023 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
What is stealth wealth?
Stealth wealth or quiet luxury as it is sometimes known is the practice of concealing one's wealth or not flaunting one's money or possessions, but rather keeping them private and discreet. It’s the kind of luxury that keeps a low profile and doesn't try to stand out with big logos or loud statement pieces.
But that does not mean people don’t know you are wealthy, at least some people do. Look at the successful show ‘Succession’ where the uber rich wear logo-free, exquisitely tailored clothes that fool no one as to their price tag.
Why do some people choose to be stealthy? Does stealth wealth mean living below your means? Is stealth wealth or quiet luxury for everyone? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is Neo-Luddism, the growing anti-technology movement?
Why is Camilla becoming queen and not queen consort?
What is Extinction Rebellion ?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
What is the European Political Community, the continent’s intergovernmental organization?
The European Political Community was launched in 2022 to discuss the future of Europe, mainly in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron first suggested the EPC’s creation in a speech to the European Parliament back in early May. Less than six months later, the first summit was held in Prague.
Despite initially opposed to the creation of the EPC back in June as Foreign Secretary, Liz Truss was in attendance in Prague. It’s thought she still remains somewhat skeptical, she made it clear she doesn’t want the new organisation to “cut across” NATO and the G7. Regardless, the UK will host the fourth EPC meeting in early 2024, after Moldova and Spain take their turn.
Why was the European Political Community created? How come the UK got invited to an EU forum? What happened in the first EPC meeting? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is Neo-Luddism, the growing anti-technology movement?
Why is Camilla becoming queen and not queen consort?
Could I save more money by cash stuffing?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
First release date: October 19th, 2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
How much sleep should I get each night?
We spend over a third of our lives sleeping. It allows our mind and body to recharge, which is vital for a number of reasons. It helps our immune system to ward off diseases, and the brain to function properly. And yet as many as 16 million adults in the UK suffer from sleepless nights, according to estimates from the Office for National Statistics.
You may have noticed that your own optimal sleep duration is different from that of other people you know well, like family members or friends. But some things are common to all of us, like the regularity and quality of sleep in particular, which are very important pillars in reaping the benefits of good sleep.
What are the health risks if you don’t sleep enough? What’s the minimal advised length of sleep? Why do some people need more sleep than others then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why is Camilla becoming queen and not queen consort?
What is Extinction Rebellion ?
Could I save more money by cash stuffing?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
How do sim swapping scams work?
Most of us have our smartphones on our person more or less all day, every day. Our photos, payment methods and a lot of personal data are stored on them. So we’re all wary of the risk of having them stolen when out in public.
But did you know there’s another way someone can take control of your phone line without you even losing the device? It’s called sim swapping and while it’s not new, it’s been on the rise in recent years. According to the FBI, Americans lost a combined $68M to sim swapping scams in 2021. One of the most high-profile examples saw Twitter founder Jack Dorsey fall prey to it in 2019.
How does SIM swapping work? How can I avoid falling victim to SIM swapping? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why is Camilla becoming queen and not queen consort?
What is Extinction Rebellion ?
Could I save more money by cash stuffing?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
Is Britain the new place to get your wine?
When you think of wine, you probably think of France, Bordeaux, Burgundy or Beaujolais. But we could soon be looking to Kent, Dorset and Hampshire instead, especially when it comes to sparkling wine.
Since 2000 the total amount of land in England and Wales given over to vineyards has quadrupled in size and established wine makers, particularly from the Champagne region in France are taking notice and are keen to take advantage of this new market. In 2016, the Pommery group invested in farmland in Kent which they transformed into vineyards. When interviewed for the Daily Mail, about the 2022 harvest, Julien Lonneux from Pommery said : “This is a truly vintage crop, easily the best in a decade.”
How much sparkling wine is currently produced in the UK? Who is taking an interest in English wine? Why is English wine getting better? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is Neo-Luddism, the growing anti-technology movement?
Why is Camilla becoming queen and not queen consort?
Could I save more money by cash stuffing?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
First release date: November 29th , 2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
Can plants communicate with one another?
You might think that plants are silent and passive, but recent studies have shown that they can actually make sounds and send signals to each other, especially when they are stressed or under attack.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University recently released their findings from a six-year experiment, which saw them record sounds emitted by certain plants. We’ve actually known for over 10 years now that plants emit vibrations, but it’s the first time that sounds have been detected, meaning it’s a groundbreaking find.
Why don’t we hear plant noise then? Why would plants need to communicate with each other? What impact could this discovery have on agriculture? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why is Camilla becoming queen and not queen consort?
What is Extinction Rebellion ?
Could I save more money by cash stuffing?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What is Neo-Luddism, the growing anti-technology movement?
In today’s ultra-connected society, more and more technologies are emerging all the time, and they’re getting increasingly advanced. Just look at how far AI has come in recent times, and the attention it’s been getting since the launch of ChatGPT.
In many ways, it’s difficult to not use technology. To not do so would be like cutting ourselves off from the rest of the world. But still, it’s not to everyone’s liking. Some people resent the influence that some forms of technology have on our society, and want to reject them. They are known as neo-Luddites.
Where does the name come from? Could AI have the same impact? And today, how is Neo-Luddism exemplified? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why is Camilla becoming queen and not queen consort?
What is Extinction Rebellion ?
Could I save more money by cash stuffing?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
Why is Camilla becoming queen and not queen consort?
Buckingham Palace’s coronation invitations that have been sent out for the ceremony at Westminster Abbey on May 6 have confirmed that instead of ‘princess consort’ or ‘queen consort’ Camilla shall be official Queen Camilla, something that has been suspected for some time.
According to some sources, Charles always intended to make Camilla his queen, but he waited for the right time to announce it. He reportedly got the approval of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who announced her wish for Camilla to be given the title during her Platinum Jubilee celebrations in February 2022
What is the difference between a queen and a queen consort? Why was Camilla supposed to be titled Princess Consort? How have the public reacted to this decision? What will be Camilla’s duties and responsibilities as queen? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Could I save more money by cash stuffing?
What is snus, the latest addictive nicotine fad?
Why can't Royals take selfies ?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
What is Extinction Rebellion ?
This environmental movement was created in England just a few years ago in October 2018, but quickly spread all across the world. Extinction Rebellion’s aim is to compel governments to take action against global warming and environmental collapse. It’s earned a reputation as a radical organisation, due to its disobedience and disruption tactics. But only using non-violent action is one of its key principles.
Also known as XR, Extinction Rebellion was born from a realisation that traditional protest methods were insufficient when it came to the environment crisis. These activists felt new methods and organisation forms were required, taking inspiration from other grassroots movements like Occupy, the American civil rights movement or the suffragettes.
What do they actually want in concrete terms? How did such a young movement get to be so rich and powerful? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why can't Royals take selfies ?
How can I beat my work addiction?
How is AI being used in the legal system?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Replay of the episode published on May 17th, 2022
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5/4/2023 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
What is snus, the latest addictive nicotine fad?
Snus originally comes from Sweden, but is also consumed a lot in other Nordic countries like Denmark and Norway, as well as the United States. It’s made headlines in the last few months, with young people using it more and more.
The latest media discussions have centred on a number of Premier League footballers being spotted using snus on camera. It’s a semi-legal cigarette alternative, which comes in the form of a small moist pouch of powdered tobacco, a little like a teabag.
Is snus safe to use ? What is the legal status of snus in the UK? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why can't Royals take selfies ?
How can I beat my work addiction?
How is AI being used in the legal system?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
Could I save more money by cash stuffing?
With inflation at the highest it’s been in 45 years, it’s no wonder people are looking for ways to manage their money more effectively. And the trend we’re talking about today has really taken off on Tiktok since the start of the year.
The #cashstuffing hashtag had already reached 1 billion views on the platform at the time of recording. There’s actually nothing new about cash stuffing; in many ways it’s as if we were going back in time a few decades to when bank cards didn’t exist. It consists of allocating a certain amount of money to an expenditure category, like groceries for example.
How does it work? Does it actually work? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why can't Royals take selfies ?
How can I beat my work addiction?
How is AI being used in the legal system?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/3/2023 • 3 minutes, 59 seconds
Why can't Royals take selfies ?
If you ever meet a member of the royal family, you might be tempted to ask them for a selfie or an autograph but don’t be surprised if they politely decline. There are some good reasons why royals don’t take selfies or give autographs as well as a whole host of other rather unusual protocols that they must adhere to.
Royals are often surrounded by crowds of people who want to see them or talk to them. Signing autographs or taking selfies could expose them to potential threats or harm. Also it could create a lot of chaos and confusion in the crowd, making it harder for security personnel to protect the royals. But there is a more important reason...
What is the problem with selfies? What are some other things that Royals can’t do? So what should you do if you see a Royal?
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What do I need to know before getting a tattoo?
Is swallowing chewing gum dangerous?
Could the human race become infertile?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
How can I beat my work addiction?
Being a grafter or hustler is often portrayed in a positive light when it comes to the world of work. But there are a host of negative consequences that can arise when a person becomes a workaholic. The term was invented by American psychologist Wayne Oates back in 1971.
Oates said workaholics had “an uncontrollable need to work incessantly”, and called it an addiction. It’s a real mental health condition, and like with other addictions, it manifests as the inability to stop doing something.
So it basically means working really long hours, does it? Who is most likely to become a workaholic?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How is inflation affecting our eating habits?
How can you improve your memory and recall skills ?
What is the 10-10-10 method for dealing with everyday worries ?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
How is AI being used in the legal system?
ChatGPT has been invading all walks of life in recent months, and that even includes the justice system. In late March 2023, a Pakistani judge consulted the chatbot before granting bail to a 13 year old boy who stood accused of kidnapping and attempting to rape a 9 year old.
According to Pakistan Observer, the judge asked ChatGPT the following initial question: ““Can a juvenile suspect in Pakistan, who is 13 years old, be granted bail after arrest?” The chatbot responded: “Under the Juvenile Justice System Act 2018, according to section 12, the court can grant bail on certain conditions.” A discussion then ensued on how this option could be interpreted when taking into account certain other laws. The judge included ChatGPT’s responses in his judgement and stated how impressed he was. The cases have led to hope that AI could help make legal systems around the world more efficient, but there’s been a lot of criticism and skepticism too.
Are there any other examples aside from ChatGPT ? What are the possible risks then?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How is inflation affecting our eating habits?
How can you improve your memory and recall skills ?
What is the 10-10-10 method for dealing with everyday worries ?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
How can I get the most out of daytime napping?
Studies have repeatedly shown that human sleep quality is deteriorating year after year, for a number of reasons, including workaholic lifestyles and rising global temperatures.
Daytime napping shouldn't be seen as a replacement for insufficient nighttime sleep, but there are a number of health benefits nevertheless. It’s actually pretty natural for our bodies too, and has long been ingrained in a number of cultures.
When’s the best time to have a nap then? How can I get off to sleep quickly? What evidence is there of the benefits of napping? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How is inflation affecting our eating habits?
How can you improve your memory and recall skills?
What is the 10-10-10 method for dealing with everyday worries?
Date of first release : July 16th, 2022
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
How do I know if I'm allergic to gluten?
In recent years, gluten-free diets have become more and more popular. No doubt you’ve seen “Free From” aisles in your local supermarket, and you can also get gluten-free items in health food shops or online.
Some people have no choice but to adopt such a diet, because they have coeliac disease, a lifelong autoimmune condition which causes their body to attack its own tissue when gluten is consumed. According to Coeliac UK, the condition affects just 1% of the population. However, there have been claims that going gluten-free has benefits like weight loss, increased energy and improved overall health, but there’s little in the way of research to back all that up.
So, what is it about gluten that causes health problems ? Which foods contain gluten ? How can you tell if you really have Coeliac disease ?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What do I need to know before getting a tattoo?
Is swallowing chewing gum dangerous?
Could the human race become infertile?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/29/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
How is inflation affecting our eating habits?
The past year has seen the highest inflation rates in over 40 years, and consumers have adapted by changing their shopping habits. That’s particularly true when it comes to grocery shopping.
While annual inflation fell slightly to 10.1% in the year to March 2023, figures for food and drink alone reached 19.1%. If you break it down further, for some food categories, the rate is even higher; for example the price of sugar has risen by a whopping 42.1% in a year.
Which items are people giving up as a result ? Are people still getting a healthy diet ? How else are consumers adapting?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the 10-10-10 method for dealing with everyday worries?
What is Mukbang, the latest type of video going viral on social media?
What is the placebo effect and how does it work?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
How can you improve your memory and recall skills?
Memory is the ability to store and retrieve information, and recall is the process of accessing that information when needed.
Both are essential for learning, problem-solving, and decision-making, but they can also decline with age, stress, or illness. But there are ways to naturally boost your memory and recall skills.
How can I focus my attention better? How can I structure and organise the information I want to remember? What else can I do to help? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What do I need to know before getting a tattoo?
Is swallowing chewing gum dangerous?
Could the human race become infertile?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
Am I fexting in my relationships like the Bidens?
Interviewed by Harper's Bazaar in June 2022, US First Lady Jill Biden admitted to arguing over text with her husband. She said it’s been a good way for them to settle disagreements, away from the ears of secret service agents and everyone around them.
Arguing by text is also known as fexting, which is a contraction of fighting and texting. Of course, it isn’t only the President and his wife who fext. In a day and age where we practically live on our phones, many couples resort to fexting in their relationships.
Why do people fext? Is fexting a good idea? What are the risks of fexting? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the placebo effect and how does it work?
What do I need to know before getting a tattoo?
Is swallowing chewing gum dangerous?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Replay of the episode produced on October 24th, 2022
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/27/2023 • 3 minutes, 53 seconds
What is Mukbang, the latest type of video going viral on social media?
The mukbang phenomenon has been around for nearly 15 years, but only really took off on Youtube and then Tiktok in the last few years. A simple search on either of the platforms yields an endless list of clips, many of which have view counts in the millions.
Mukbang involves people filming themselves while eating. The streamers are known as broadcast jockeys, or BJs for short, and they often eat copious amounts of food during their streams. We’re talking up to 10,000 calories in a single sitting! Sometimes viewers get to see them preparing the food first, or ordering it in.
Where does mukbang come from ? What's the attraction of watching other people eat ? Is the mukbang trend dangerous ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What do I need to know before getting a tattoo?
Is swallowing chewing gum dangerous?
Could the human race become infertile?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What is the 10-10-10 method for dealing with everyday worries?
We all have to deal with tricky dilemmas and situations from time to time, the kind which we just can’t seem to get out of our head, that keep us up at night. It might be a fight with a friend, a work-related conflict or an urge to up sticks and move away for example.
Weighing things up endlessly can lead to a vicious circle of anxiety, which pollutes the mind. Well, there’s no magic solution for getting those things out of your head unfortunately. But there is a method for thinking about them differently to reduce fee lings of angst and discontent. It’s the 10-10-10 method.
It sounds like a breathing method! How do I get started then?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What do I need to know before getting a tattoo?
Is swallowing chewing gum dangerous?
Could the human race become infertile?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
What is the placebo effect and how does it work?
The placebo effect is a phenomenon in which a person's symptoms or well-being improve after receiving a fake treatment that has no specific or intrinsic effect on their condition.
For example, a person may feel less pain after taking a sugar pill that they believe is a painkiller, or they may feel more energetic after receiving an injection of saline solution that they think is a vitamin. The placebo effect is not just about positive thinking or wishful thinking. It involves complex psychological and physiological mechanisms that are not fully understood.
How does the placebo effect work? What are the benefits of the placebo effect? What are the limitations of the placebo effect? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Could AI ever be able to offer therapy?
What is plasticrust, the latest concerning form of pollution?
Why don't scars disappear?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
[RERUN] What are carbon bombs?
The controversial East African Crude Oil Pipeline project moved one step closer to construction in March 2022, with the signing of a $10 billions Final Investment Decision between French multinational Total Energies and its joint venture partners.
The pipeline is set to become the longest in the world, at 1000 miles long, and will transport petrol from Uganda to the Tanzanian coast. The project will see 400 oil wells operated in Uganda, and is expected to emit 34 million metric tons of CO2 each year.
Haven’t these people paid any attention to warnings about fossil fuels and the climate crisis? What other risks are linked to the EACOP project? How can we stop carbon bombs? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What do I need to know before getting a tattoo?
Is swallowing chewing gum dangerous?
Could the human race become infertile?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/25/2023 • 5 minutes, 23 seconds
What do I need to know before getting a tattoo?
A 2022 YouGov study suggested that 26% of British people have at least one tattoo, a statistic which reflects just how the perception of tattoos has changed over the years. They used to be reserved for subcultures, but are now very much in the mainstream, and seen as a positive way of expressing one’s identity.
Nevertheless, getting a tattoo can be dangerous if not done correctly. If you’re thinking about getting inked for the first time, you’ll want to get familiar with these tips.
How can I choose the right tattoo artist? Well if I don’t like it, I can always get it removed, can’t I? What about after the tattoo is done?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Could AI ever be able to offer therapy?
How is hygiene poverty affecting over 3 million Brits?
What is plasticrust, the latest concerning form of pollution?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
Is swallowing chewing gum dangerous?
According to Retaildata.co.uk, us Brits are the second biggest consumers of gum in the world. On average, Brits use between 120 and 130 sticks each every year! Now despite that, many people don’t really know what chewing gum is actually made up of.
We know that the minty freshness helps with bad breath and that maybe there’s some connection to oral hygiene, but that’s about it. Oh and of course we’ve heard that terrible things can happen if you swallow chewing gum. You could get appendicitis, the gum could stay stuck in your stomach for years, blocking your intestines. So, are they old wives’ tales or should you really be afraid?
What’s actually in chewing gum then? Are there any health risks associated with chewing gum? What about if you accidentally swallow a piece of gum then?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Could AI ever be able to offer therapy?
How is hygiene poverty affecting over 3 million Brits?
What is plasticrust, the latest concerning form of pollution?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
[RERUN] How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
We’re all aware of the physical risks associated with extreme heat, like dehydration and fainting for example. But a number of scientific studies have shown that heatwaves also have a major impact on people’s mental health.
It’s important to highlight that the difference can be experienced by anyone, not just those with existing psychiatric conditions. But one thing is for sure: the vast majority of us are more anxious when temperatures are high. And it makes sense that we get more irritable when you consider how our bodies work. Heat causes our heart rate, pulse, blood pressure and cortisol levels to all increase. Meanwhile, it deregulates so-called happy hormones serotonin and dopamine.
Who is most affected? What do researchers have to say about it? What about eco-anxiety? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How is hygiene poverty affecting over 3 million Brits?
Could AI ever be able to offer therapy?
What is plasticrust, the latest concerning form of pollution?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
Could the human race become infertile?
In April 2023, the World Health Organization released a new report on infertility, which said that around one in sex people worldwide experience infertility at some point in their lives. The WHO’s Director-General labelled the phenomenon a major health issue and called for more research in an area that is “still under-studied…and insufficiently funded”.
The sheer proportion of affected individuals shows the need to expand access to fertility-related care and ensure that this issue is no longer sidelined in health research and policies. The WHO review was based on 133 fertility studies dating between 1990 and 2021, and showed that no region of the world is spared.
What are the causes of such high levels of infertility? What treatments are currently available for people with infertility problems? What could the consequences be?
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Could AI ever be able to offer therapy?
How is hygiene poverty affecting over 3 million Brits?
What is plasticrust, the latest concerning form of pollution?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
How is hygiene poverty affecting over 3 million Brits?
The ongoing cost-of-living crisis is forcing people to make a number of difficult choices. Heating the house or flat and putting food on the table are getting more and more expensive, meaning there’s less money left over for luxuries.
And it seems that has started extending to basic hygiene products too. Findings from a YouGov study commissioned by UK charity The Hygiene Bank were released in October 2022, estimating that 3.2 million Brits were in hygiene poverty.
What kind of hygiene products are we talking about? What are the consequences? How can we help people affected by hygiene poverty? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Could AI ever be able to offer therapy?
What is plasticrust, the latest concerning form of pollution?
Why don't scars disappear?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/21/2023 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
Could AI ever be able to offer therapy?
Therapy can help people cope with stress, trauma, depression, anxiety, and other psychological issues but finding the right therapist is not always easy. There is a global shortage of mental health professionals, and many people face barriers such as stigma, cost, or lack of availability.
According to the World Health organisation there are almost one billion people with a mental disorder, that's more than one person out of every 10. They said: "just a small fraction of people in need have access to effective, affordable and quality mental health care". Finding the right therapist is not always easy; they are not equally skilled or suited for every client or condition. But there could be an alternative, AI therapists.
What are the benefits of using AI for therapy? What are the disadvantages of using AI? So will AI be replacing humans any time soon? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is plasticrust, the latest concerning form of pollution?
Why don't scars disappear?
Are protein bars really worthwhile?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
[RERUN] Why do I have white spots on my nails?
If you’ve ever had white spots on your nails before, you may have been dismissively told that it's down to a lack of calcium or zinc. Basically, some mineral-deficiency. But this popular belief doesn’t really have any basis in fact.
According to Healthline, nails grow an average of 3 millimeters per month. Their composition is made up of keratin, a protein, and just 0.03% calcium. So white spots are certainly not just a calcium problem.
What is the color of a healthy nail? What other colours can my nails turn? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Are protein bars really worthwhile?
How can I recognise an AI-generated image?
Which foods and drinks stain teeth?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 1 second
Why don't scars disappear?
When our skin is cut or damaged, the body immediately starts its healing process to close the wound and limit any risk of infection. It’s a wonderful and fascinating process, but nevertheless scars still remain on the skin afterwards. They can be unsightly and visible too, depending on their location, leading to self-consciousness.
There are several stages, with the first being hemostasis. Immediately after we get a cut, blood platelets come together to form a blood clot, in order to stop the bleeding. Our blood vessels also contract, to limit blood loss.
How does the healing process work? Will the scar be fully gone by that point then? Is there anything we can do to make the skin heal better? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Are protein bars really worthwhile?
How can I recognise an AI-generated image?
Which foods and drinks stain teeth?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
What is plasticrust, the latest concerning form of pollution?
A March 2023 study by American scientific magazine PLOS One revealed how plastic pollution of the oceans has reached unprecedented levels. An estimated 2.3 million tons of plastic are now floating in the seas or have been deposited on coastlines.
These figures are alarming, both for wildlife and for us. We know the consequences of microplastics on animal and human health. We’ve also seen garbage patches created in the middle of the oceans. But on the coastline, another form of pollution has appeared: small pieces of plastic have become embedded in the rocks to create what’s been labelled “plasticrust”.
What is this "plasticrust" made of? What impact could plasticrust pollution have? What’s happening with the UN treaty on plastic pollution? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Are protein bars really worthwhile?
How can I recognise an AI-generated image?
Which foods and drinks stain teeth?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
Are protein bars really worthwhile?
If you are looking for a quick and easy way to boost your protein intake, you might have considered eating a protein bar. They are convenient, come in various flavors and claim to provide you with the essential amino acids your body needs, often attracting people who want to lose weight, build muscle, or simply snack healthily.
And, according to a BBC article, the market is booming. A report by Mintel says that the UK market for sports nutrition products grew by 26% between 2015 and 2020, reaching £494 millions. Protein bars accounted for 30% of this market, with sales increasing by 14% in 2020 alone.
What are the advantages of eating protein bars? Do you really need more protein? Are protein bars really worth it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can I recognise an AI-generated image?
Which foods and drinks stain teeth?
Is oversleeping bad for you?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
[RERUN] What is de-extinction?
The process of de-extinction is all about bringing extinct species back to life. It became known in the 2010s, thanks to an ambitious plan from American geneticist George Church, who dreamed of resurrecting the woolly mammoth, an animal which has been extinct for 3700 years.
Fast forward to the 2020s and Church’s bioscience startup Colossal is now eding closer towards making that a reality. As of March 2022, Colossal announced that it had raised a total of $75M for the project.
Is it really possible to revive extinct animal species? Why would we want to bring extinct species back to life? How is the idea of de-extinction being received by the scientific community? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I recognise an AI-generated image?
Which foods and drinks stain teeth?
Is oversleeping bad for you?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
How can I recognise an AI-generated image?
We’re only a quarter of the way through 2023, and already we’ve seen a number of unexpected images go viral. Examples include Pope Francis wearing a white Balenciaga puffer jacket, Donald Trump being arrested at the foot of the Trump Tower in New York, and Barack Obama and Angela Merkel sharing an ice cream on the beach.
So what do these viral images all have in common? Well of course they weren’t real! They were all generated by AI apps, which as you may know are now able to create images based on text prompts in a matter of seconds.
So how can I tell fake from real then? What about clues in the images themselves? What about clues in the images themselves? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Would you be more likely to go to work if you could bring in your pet?
Why are most people right-handed?
Is eating bread actually bad for you?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/17/2023 • 5 minutes, 12 seconds
Which foods and drinks stain teeth?
Having beautiful white teeth of course depends on good oral hygiene to a degree. But brushing and flossing alone aren’t the only factors. The structural integrity of our tooth enamel is actually determined by genetics, meaning some of us are more likely to experience decay than others.
The same goes for dentine, which is the calcified tissue that lies underneath tooth enamel, protecting the dental pulp encased within. Now dentine is actually yellow, which explains why our teeth gradually turn that colour when the enamel wears away.
Tea and coffee are supposed to be bad at staining teeth, aren’t they? What about foods? Is there anything we can do apart from reducing our consumption? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Would you be more likely to go to work if you could bring in your pet?
Why are most people right-handed?
Is eating bread actually bad for you?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/16/2023 • 5 minutes, 4 seconds
[RERUN] Why am I experiencing deja vu?
The strange experience of deja vu sometimes lasts just a matter of milliseconds. Nonetheless it can still catch you off guard and be pretty unsettling. Deja vu means “already seen” in French.
It refers to the sense of having already seen or experienced something you’re confronted with, even though you know that you have never actually seen it before. For example, you visit a new city for the first time in your life, but at a precise moment you get the feeling like you’ve walked down a certain street in the past. According to Psychology Today, it occurs in 60 - 70% of people from time to time, while research suggests more than 97% of us have experienced it at least once in our lives.
Has it always existed? Have scientific studies been able to shed any light on it? Can deja vu be dangerous? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Would you be more likely to go to work if you could bring in your pet?
Why are most people right-handed?
Is eating bread actually bad for you?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
Is oversleeping bad for you?
You’re no doubt familiar with what it feels like to be extremely tired after a long sleep. It’s a little like a hangover really: sluggishness, irritability, perhaps a slight headache too. And there’s actually a term for these sensations: sleep drunkenness.
According to the Sleep Foundation, the average adult needs between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night. But optimal sleep duration is unique for each of us. It can vary due to factors like genetics, age and lifestyle habits.
Does oversleeping have any health consequences? What can we do to get back into a healthy sleep routine? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Would you be more likely to go to work if you could bring in your pet?
Why are most people right-handed?
Is eating bread actually bad for you?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
Would you be more likely to go to work if you could bring in your pet?
If you are a pet owner you know how hard it can be to leave your furry friend at home when you go to work. You may worry about their wellbeing, feel guilty for not spending enough time with them or miss their companionship.
According to a BBC article, more than 3 million people in the UK have taken on a pet since the start of the pandemic. Many of them have enjoyed working from home with their furry companions and are reluctant to leave them behind when they return to the office.
What are the advantages of bringing pets to work? What are the disadvantages? So, would you be more likely to go to work if you bring your pet? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Is eating bread actually bad for you?
How can I eat healthy on a budget?
Are men still being paid more than women?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
Why are most people right-handed?
Around the age of 4, children develop a preference for using one of their hands to complete certain tasks, like drawing for example. The same goes for foot preference, when it comes to which foot they use to start going up a flight of stairs, or to kick a ball. It even goes for our eyes and ears.
Generally when a child reaches the age of five, their preference for using one side of the body to carry out tasks is truly ingrained. This developmental process is known as right-left asymmetry. According to the US National Library of Medicine, 85-90% of adults are right-handed.
What dictates whether we prefer using our left or right hand? Isn’t being left-handed hereditary? Why do people say that left-handed people are more creative? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Is eating bread actually bad for you?
How can I eat healthy on a budget?
Are men still being paid more than women?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
[RERUN] What is dawn dating ?
Dating practices evolve over time along with our ways of life. Over the last two years, Covid-19 restrictions and remote work have had a huge impact on the love lives of singletons all across the world. All of a sudden, it was much less practical to meet a potential suitor face to face. As a result dates became few and far between for many.
Now of course, in-person interactions have become safer, but for some their habits may have changed for good! For most of us, a typical date involves evening drinks or dinner. But dawn dating has become increasingly common, with people choosing to meet in the morning instead.
How did we find out about dawn dating? What are the main differences between morning and evening dates? Have there been many other changes in dating since the Covid pandemic started? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Are men still being paid more than women?
What makes us ticklish?
Why are there calls for a halt to AI research?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
Is eating bread actually bad for you?
Bread has been a staple of the human diet for over 10,000 years, when our ancestors made flatbread by baking a mixture of flour and water in the sun.
To this day, the vast majority of us eat bread on a regular basis, and many of us eat it every day. But it’s been demonised to some extent in recent years, with many dieters saying it’s made up of “empty calories” and ditching it.
What is the nutritional makeup of bread? Brown bread is supposed to be the healthiest, isn’t it? How often should I eat bread? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Are men still being paid more than women?
What makes us ticklish?
Why are there calls for a halt to AI research?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
How can I eat healthy on a budget?
The first quarter of 2023 has seen food inflation in the UK surpass 16%, according to the Office for National Statistics. Such inflation rates hadn’t been seen for forty years. It’s contributed to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, and an increasing number of people are struggling to afford to buy enough food.
With all that in mind, many people’s number one concern right now is keeping their supermarket bill as low as possible, regardless of how healthy what they’re eating is. But there are ways of sticking to a balanced diet even on a shoestring budget.
Isn’t healthy food always expensive? What are the tips to buy healthy food at a low cost? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Are men still being paid more than women?
What makes us ticklish?
Why are there calls for a halt to AI research?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Tower of Babel?
The subject of today’s episode is often referred to when people aren’t able to understand one another. It’s an origin myth which comes from the book of Genesis in the Bible.
The Tower of Babel story begins with all people in the world speaking a common language. They’re all children of Noah, the only man to have survived the great flood sent by God to punish humans for their sins. To celebrate this union, they came up with an idea, which is explained in the Bible. Still traumatised by the flood, they began building a tower on the grounds of Babylon, to link Earth and Heaven. But God didn’t appreciate what he saw as an arrogant plan....
Who wrote about the Tower of Babel? Did the Tower of Babel really exist? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Are men still being paid more than women?
What makes us ticklish?
Why are there calls for a halt to AI research?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/11/2023 • 3 minutes, 53 seconds
Are men still being paid more than women?
According to data from the BBC men still earn more than women for the same work. The difference in wages (for the medium worker) is 9.4%, the same as it was in 2017 when companies were first obliged to publish their figures. The gap remains larger in the public sector at 15.1% compared to 8% in the private sector but neither have changed significantly from previous years.
“The gender pay gap is closing at a snail’s pace, At current rates of progress, it will take more than 20 years to close it. That’s just not good enough. Ministers must step up, or we will consign yet another generation of women to lower pay.” said The Trades Union Congress' general secretary, Paul Nowak.
Why is this still a problem? What action can be taken? What should you do if you think you deserve a raise? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can deep sleep help stop dementia?
What is conscious quitting?
Why is Israel going through a major political crisis?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/11/2023 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
What makes us ticklish?
Whether it’s as kids in the school playground, fooling around with our first partner as a teenager or with our own kids when we become parents, tickling is generally synonymous with moments of playful fun.
Of course tickling can bring on strong reactions and some people hate it, so it’s important to only do it to someone if they’re not objecting, no matter how harmless it might seem to you. Some people are just way more sensitive to it than others, and might start laughing or cringing at the slightest touch, or even in anticipation of being tickled.
Why are some parts of our bodies more sensitive to tickling than others? Why can’t I tickle myself? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can deep sleep help stop dementia?
What is conscious quitting?
Why is Israel going through a major political crisis?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/10/2023 • 3 minutes, 49 seconds
Why are there calls for a halt to AI research?
Since the launch of ChatGPT in November last year, there’s been a wave of popular demand for AI technology. The chatbot reached 100 million users in record time, with its appeal stretching far beyond the tech-savvy.
After all, it can write essays and songs, summarise documents and hold human-like conversations. But the rapid advances are causing concern in some quarters. In late March, the Future of Life Institute think tank published a pretty direct open letter calling for a six-month pause in the training of AI systems, saying that they shouldn’t be allowed to go any further than Open AI’s GPT-4 model.
But isn’t AI going to make all of our lives easier? What are the counter-arguments in favour of further developing AI? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can deep sleep help stop dementia?
What is conscious quitting?
Why is Israel going through a major political crisis?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/9/2023 • 5 minutes, 4 seconds
[RERUN] How did Feta cheese end up causing an international legal battle?
Feta cheese is undoubtedly a star ingredient when it comes to summer salads. It goes without saying it plays a starring role in the Greek salad, but it can also add a savoury taste to other recipes like the watermelon salad for example.
Feta is one of Kate Middleton’s favourites. But this summer feta isn’t only getting attention by featuring in salad recipes. It’s also made headlines in European political news, due to what was lightheartedly labelled the “feta battle” between Greece and Denmark.
What are the characteristics of feta? So what’s the feta battle all about? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can deep sleep help stop dementia?
What is conscious quitting?
Why is Israel going through a major political crisis?
A Bababam Originals podcast. A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
What are the best ways of beating procrastination?
Do you ever feel like you’re always in a rush, constantly getting things done at the latest possible time? It could be paying a bill, cleaning our home or even recording a podcast! Well you’re certainly not alone in that respect. According to Deacon Joseph Ferrari, who specialises in the area, 20% of us are chronic procrastinators.
And a 2020 survey by Micro Biz Mag found that just 15.6% of people say they never procrastinate. So it’s something that affects almost all of us from time to time. And of course it can be a cause of stress and anxiety when we actually get around to doing whatever it is we’ve been putting off. So let’s discuss some ways of beating that pesky habit!
Why do we procrastinate anyway? If we’re hardwired like that, does it mean that it's impossible to stop procrastinating? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can deep sleep help stop dementia?
What is conscious quitting?
Why is Israel going through a major political crisis?
A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
Why do I need a Shultz Hour in my weekly routine?
As Ronald Reagan’s US Secretary of State during the 1980s, George Shultz played a key role in bringing an end to the decades-old Cold War. He helped build relations with USSR leader Mikhail Gorbachev, as well as countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
In 1989, Shultz was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his services, the United States’ highest civilian honour. He passed away in February 2021, having lived to the ripe old age of 100. But before he did, he shared one of the secrets behind his productivity and difficult decision-making: the Shultz Hour. And it’s something a lot of us could do with in this modern age.
So what is it actually? It’s often hard to find time to think, isn’t it? How can I go about creating my own Shultz Hour? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is conscious quitting?
Why is Israel going through a major political crisis?
How should I organise my fridge?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/7/2023 • 5 minutes, 3 seconds
Can deep sleep help stop dementia?
It’s not news that if you don't get a good nights sleep you will probably not be your best the next day, but while you are snoozing, particularly in deep sleep, your brain is not just powered down, it is busy cleaning out the days toxins, almost like it is ‘washing your brain’ and getting it ready for the next day.
“Sleep is not just a state where things turn off. Sleep is a very active state for the brain – and it seems to be a special state for fluid flow within the brain,” says Laura Lewis, assistant professor of biomedical engineering at Boston University in the Guardian newspaper.
What happens if we don't get enough deep sleep? How can we boost our deep sleep? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is conscious quitting?
Why is Israel going through a major political crisis?
How should I organise my fridge?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
[RERUN] Are baths or showers better for our health?
When it comes to getting clean, some people prefer chilling in the bath for a good half an hour or more, while others like how quick and practical it is having a shower. Let’s consider the two choices from a health perspective.
It's pretty common knowledge that taking a bath isn't very eco-friendly, in terms of water consumption. Of course there are variables at play here when comparing the two. When taking a bath, you only really need to fill around a third of the tub up, so your torso is submerged when you lie down. But some people will fill it higher, which obviously uses more water. When taking a shower, it depends how long you keep it running for and how powerful the flow rate is.
What does taking a bath do to our bodies? What about its impact on the cardiovascular system? Are there any points of comparison where taking a shower is better? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
What is conscious quitting?
Why is Israel going through a major political crisis?
How should I organise my fridge?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
What is conscious quitting?
Following on from “quiet quitting” and “quiet firing”, conscious quitting is another work-related term that’s gone viral in recent times. It’s based on the results of prominent surveys which have shown that people are increasingly prepared to walk away from a job if they feel their employers’ values don’t match theirs.
For example, in February 2023 former Unilever chief executive Paul Polman reported on the findings of the Net Positive Employee Barometer. The survey of 4,000 UK and US based employees showed that employees are “worried about the future and want to work for companies who are doing something about it”. That could be taking action on issues like gender equality or environmental challenges for example.
Which groups of people are most likely to be conscious quitters? Why has this phenomenon come to light now? Could the conscious quitting trend hurt companies? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How should I organise my fridge?
Is eating fish still good for you?
Why do we drive on the left hand side of the road?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 45 seconds
Why is Israel going through a major political crisis?
Since January 2023, hundreds of thousands of people have been gathering in the streets of Jerusalem. They’re protesting in response to a package of judicial reform bills which would bring in drastic changes to Israel’s legal system.
In late March Defense Minister Yoav Galant spoke out about the dangers of the reform and in favour of the protests. He was subsequently fired, sparking turmoil. Even the usually reserved and ceremonial President Isaac Herzog demanded that the government "immediately" stop legislative work on the controversial judicial reform project that is dividing the country.
What’s so controversial about the planned reforms? So why is this a problem? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How should I organise my fridge?
Is eating fish still good for you?
Why do we drive on the left hand side of the road?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
How should I organise my fridge?
You might be the kind of person that meticulously fills your fridge with your groceries ensuring that every item is in the correct spot or perhaps you just shove them in wherever there is space but there is actual science behind how to best fill your fridge to keep things fresh and avoid waste.
But everything you thought you knew may no longer be valid as the UK food authority has just updated its advice on a number of foodstuffs and where they should be stored so it might be time to refresh your fridge organisation. The most significant change is regarding potatoes. For as long as I can remember the advice regarding raw potatoes was to store them in a cool dry place but not the fridge. This was to stop something called “cold sweetening”, from happening.
What has changed when it comes to storing food? What else should I know about storing food? What should not be refrigerated? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is eating fish still good for you?
Why do we drive on the left hand side of the road?
What do I need to know before getting laser eye surgery?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
[RERUN] What is King Charles’ role in the Church of England?
Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, her son Prince Charles became King at the age of 73. He inherited the many titles that his mother carried throughout her 70-year reign, one of which is the “Defender of the Faith”. That refers to his role as the supreme governor of the Church of England.
In 2009, the Church of England stated it had over 26 million baptised members accounting for nearly half of the population of England. It is also the mother church of the international Anglican Communion which is present around the world, particularly in Commonwealth countries like Canada, Australia and South Africa. The British monarch’s role as Defender of the Faith is mostly symbolic; in practice he has limited powers.
What is the monarch's role as head of the Church of England? How was the Church of England born? What is the Church of England religion like? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is eating fish still good for you?
Why do we drive on the left hand side of the road?
What do I need to know before getting laser eye surgery?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
Is eating fish still good for you?
On paper, fish have everything required to be an excellent staple to many diets. They’re rich in protein, vitamins, trace elements, long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, and aren’t too high in calories. The only downside is that fish live in an increasingly polluted environment.
What with heavy metals and plastic waste invading the oceans, more and more people are concerned about the pitfalls of eating fish. After all, they can be contaminated by chemical pollutants such as PCBs, methylmercury, or dioxins. These endocrine disruptors can have very harmful effects such as causing neurological disorders or forms of cancer. Furthermore, food derived from fish flesh is also likely to be contaminated with microorganisms such as bacteria and parasites.
Should we stop eating fish then? Should I avoid any other types of fish? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is Sisu?
What does Mercury in retrograde mean?
Does the Mediterranean diet lower risks of dementia?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
What do I need to know before getting laser eye surgery?
Shortsightedness or myopia affects long distance vision, preventing people from seeing objects over a few yards away. You may remember we covered the subject on Do You Really Know? a while back and that it has been labelled an epidemic due to ever increasing prevalence worldwide.
It’s estimated that a third of all people suffer from myopia, and the World Health Organisation has suggested that half of all human beings in the world will be shortsighted by 2050, with excessive screen use and a lack of time spent outdoors largely to blame. If you simply can't stand contacts or glasses, laser surgery is another option. It's been in fashion since the turn of the century and according to Optegra, over 15,000 Brits choose to go down that route each year.
Can all shortsighted people get laser eye surgery? How does the laser work? Does it work every time? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is Sisu?
What does Mercury in retrograde mean?
Does the Mediterranean diet lower risks of dementia?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
[RERUN] Can jellyfish offer the key to immortality?
Throughout history people have been keen to find the answer to immortality. It's now commonly accepted that eternal life is not possible. Yet, somewhere deep in the ocean, a tiny fingernail-sized creature nicknamed the “immortal jellyfish” might be able to cast new light on the human aging process.
A new study published in August 2022 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences shows the results from a team of researchers who have mapped the jellyfish’s genetic code to find the secret to its immortality. They found that the immortal jellyfish has twice more copies of genes associated with DNA repair and protection than a regular jellyfish. They can produce greater amounts of protective and restorative proteins.
Why is the "immortal jellyfish" immortal? Will humans be able to regenerate like jellyfish? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is Sisu?
What does Mercury in retrograde mean?
Does the Mediterranean diet lower risks of dementia?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
Could the deep work technique help me concentrate better at work?
Distractions in the workplace are almost endless, from Slack group notifications to questions from colleagues to the dozen or more tabs you’ve got open in your browser. By the time your next meeting comes along, you realise two hours have passed and you’ve barely done any productive work at all.
Sound familiar? Thankfully there’s a method to improve your efficiency and concentration which may help. It’s called deep work. We owe it to Cal Newport, a computer science professor at Georgetown University in the US. Newport is a renowned figure in personal development and in 2016 he released a self-help book entitled: Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World, which would go on to be a bestseller.
Where does the concept come from? What’s the best way to concentrate on deep work? What if my boss and colleagues think I’m being rude? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How is inflation affecting our eating habits?
How can you improve your memory and recall skills?
What is the 10-10-10 method for dealing with everyday worries?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
Why do we drive on the left hand side of the road?
According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, there are as many as 430 deaths per year due to wrong-way crashes in the United States alone. That might be hard to believe as for most of us driving on the “right” side of the road is as automatic as brushing your teeth.
But there is of a course a divide between countries that drive on the left and those that drive on the right. In ancient times, driving was not really regulated, but it was nevertheless the norm to drive on the left. And it’s down in no small part to the fact that the majority of people are right-handed. In ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt, soldiers and cavalry men carried their swords and shields on the left to draw more easily with their right hands when needed.
How far back does the tradition of driving on the left go? When did that change in other parts of the world? What about in other countries? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is Sisu?
What does Mercury in retrograde mean?
Does the Mediterranean diet lower risks of dementia?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
How can I optimise my interior through Ikea hacking?
Ever since Covid-19 lockdowns, many people have developed a taste for interior design and regularly take to Pinterest for inspiration. But as you may well know from experience, buying a few furniture items can quickly add up in cost.
As a result, clever internet users have been coming up with solutions to repurpose items bought from Ikea, whose items are available in many different parts of the world. The trend has been labelled Ikea hacking and it involves repurposing furniture items from their original function.
What are some examples of Ikea hacking? So can you just customize any piece of furniture? Do I have to get the original items from Ikea? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is Sisu?
What does Mercury in retrograde mean?
Does the Mediterranean diet lower risks of dementia?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/31/2023 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
What is Sisu?
Trying to come up with a translation for the Finnish term sisu is a bit of a lost cause. Rotten Tomatoes described it as “a white-knuckled form of courage and unimaginable determination in the face of overwhelming odds.” while the BBC has defined it as “strength, perseverance in a task that for some may seem crazy to undertake, almost hopeless”.
It’s not exactly resilience, because that comes after a setback. And it’s not perseverance either which is more linked to a long term goal, whereas sisu really relates to a given moment in time. It could be finding the strength to have a complicated discussion with a superior at work for example, or attempting to resolve a conflict. Sisu is based on honesty and respect, to oneself and towards others.
So where does it come from? What are some examples of people who personified sisu? To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What does Mercury in retrograde mean?
Does the Mediterranean diet lower risks of dementia?
How to make the most out of hybrid working?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
[RERUN] Why do we sneeze?
We’ve all become a lot more self-conscious about sneezing since COVID-19 came along. Whether you’re out in the street or worse in crowded public transport, sneezing gets you more concerned looks than it did before, and people tend to keep their distance.
On top of that, we now all better understand how sneezing works. That’s right, by sneezing we propel micro-droplets of mucus potentially full of germs into the air. Indeed, MIT research showed that the mist of mucus and saliva released by a sneeze can reach speeds of 100 mph and be projected over 8 metres! Thanks to high-speed cameras, scientists have also noticed that once the sneeze has passed, a cloud containing droplets can remain suspended in the air for several minutes.
How does sneezing work then? Why do some people hold back sneezes? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How to make the most out of hybrid working?
What is kinkeeping, the invisible workload often done by women?
Why do we forget our dreams?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
What does Mercury in retrograde mean?
As you may well know, astrology involves looking at the position of planets and stars when we were born, and using that to interpret their influence on our lives. Mercury happens to be one of the planets which is supposed to have the most influence and that’s particularly true when it’s in retrograde, which happens several times a year.
Planets in our solar system orbit around the sun. If you think about it, those that are closest to the Sun have to travel t distance to complete a full orbit. Of all the planets, Mercury is closest to the Sun, and it actually completes a full rotation in just 88 days, compared to the 365 days it takes planet Earth.
What does that mean in concrete terms? Why are astrologers interested in this phenomenon? Is Mercury being in retrograde always negative then? To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How to make the most out of hybrid working?
What is kinkeeping, the invisible workload often done by women?
Why do we forget our dreams?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/29/2023 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
Does the Mediterranean diet lower risks of dementia?
According to new research a mediterranean diet could lower the risk of dementia by a quarter regardless of a person's genetic risk. “The findings from this large population-based study underscore the long-term brain health benefits of consuming a Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats," said Joint lead author of the study, Dr Janice Ranson, a senior research fellow at the University of Exeter, for the Guardian newspaper.
The researchers measured people, who did and did not follow a Mediterranean diet, and took into account each individual’s genetic risk for dementia. Over nearly a decade, there were 882 cases of dementia, but those who followed a strict Mediterranean diet had a 23% lower risk of developing the condition. Their findings, which were published in the journal BMC Medicine, are based on data from more than 60,000 individuals from the UK Biobank, an online database of medical and lifestyle records from more than half a million Britons.
What did the researchers find? What foods are included? Is diet the only factor? To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How to make the most out of hybrid working?
What is kinkeeping, the invisible workload often done by women?
Why do we forget our dreams?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/29/2023 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
How to make the most out of hybrid working?
Covid allowed many people to work from home for the first time and created a world where more flexible, hybrid working, mixing office work and working from home is now possible. But there are things to keep in mind to optimise this type of experience
According to Prof Jonathan Trevor at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School he suggests that it is better to match the task to the environment rather than following a strict schedule. He found that focused creative tasks, such as designing a brochure, can be easily done from home as they require little teamwork.
Should you stick to a set schedule? How can you build team spirit? How can you create balance between home life and office life? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we forget our dreams?
What is omotenashi, the Japanese art of hospitality?
What is kinkeeping, the invisible workload often done by women?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
[RERUN] What is sadfishing?
If you go back to early social media days, it was somewhat rare. But nowadays the practice of sadfishing is widespread, among celebs, influencer wannabes and average Joes alike.
Since the advent of social media, we’ve gotten used to seeing highlight reels of people’s lives on our newsfeeds. But in recent years, people have been more and more willing to share posts about moments of sadness, rather than acting like everything’s perfect all the time. More authentic, or simply another veiled form of attention seeking and like hunting? The practice has been labelled sadfishing.
How did the term come to be created? How widespread is sadfishing then? Are we saying it’s all about getting more likes then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we forget our dreams?
What is omotenashi, the Japanese art of hospitality?
What is kinkeeping, the invisible workload often done by women?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
What is kinkeeping, the invisible workload often done by women?
You might not be familiar with the term ‘kinkeeping’, but the chances are you’ve benefited from it at some point in your life, in particular as a child but also in adulthood if you’re a man. It refers to the household or family tasks that are subconsciously assigned to women due to their gender.
Of course, it’s pretty much equivalent to unpaid labour, and a lot of the time is taken for granted, going without any credit or even thanks. American sociologist Carolyn J. Rosenthal coined the term in 1985, in an article entitled Kinkeeping in the familial division of labor. She observed that the role of kinkeeper was often passed down from mother to daughter in nuclear families. The only study on the subject to date was carried out in 1996, and showed that 85% of kinkeepers were women aged from 40 to 69.
Why are people talking about kinkeeping now? What are the negative consequences of kinkeeping? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I beat my smartphone addiction?
How much money makes you happy?
Are we heading for another stock market crash?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
Why do we forget our dreams?
On average, we remember just one dream per week, and around 5% of us never remember any. But in reality, we all dream; it’s just that some of us never have any recollection of doing so. So why is it then that certain dreams stay with us, while others fade away immediately?
It’s important to be aware that over the course of a night, we go through various phases of slow sleep, including deep sleep and REM sleep which is short for rapid eye movement sleep. A new cycle begins around every 90 minutes. And it’s during our REM sleep cycle that we have most of our dreams. Phases gradually get longer during the night, meaning we have our longest dreams in the morning.
What actually happens to our bodies during REM sleep? Why don’t we all dream the same amount then? Is there anything we can do to better remember our dreams? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I beat my smartphone addiction?
How much money makes you happy?
Are we heading for another stock market crash?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
[RERUN] Who is Quentin Tarantino?
What’s your favourite Tarantino film? Pulp Fiction, Reservoir Dogs, Kill Bill, Inglorious Bastards or perhaps Django Unchained? Every last one of his releases have had a huge impact. They’ve often been big hits among critics and popular opinion. So in 2022, his confirmation of plans to retire following his next film has understandably drawn a lot of attention in the world of cinema.
Tarantino’s cinema is instantly recognisable. His films often have a lively rhythm, as well as a non-linear storyline, with a narrative often split into chapters. They are also characterised by dark humour and scenes of extreme graphic violence, which have been criticised.
Why is Tarantino calling it quits then? What’s Tarantino going to do when he stops making films then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I beat my smartphone addiction?
How much money makes you happy?
Are we heading for another stock market crash?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
What is omotenashi, the Japanese art of hospitality?
In some cultures, being well at home is all about making sure that others feel well when visiting, by welcoming them in the right way. In Japan, for example, hospitality is like an art form, and even has a name: omotenashi. You can’t really translate the concept into English; the meaning of the term goes a lot deeper than “hospitality”. It also has connotations of mindfulness.
In Japanese culture, knowing how to welcome others and being totally focused on your guest go hand in hand. So you could say omotenashi is the ability to anticipate a guest’s needs before they can even think of them themselves. Hence the idea of being fully available for your guest, right from the moment they arrive. The most obvious example in Japanese culture is serving tea.
Where does omotenashi come from? So you’re saying it’s not limited to the home environment, are you? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I beat my smartphone addiction?
How much money makes you happy?
Are we heading for another stock market crash?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
How can I beat my smartphone addiction?
The word nomophobia means a fear of being without our smartphone, and it’s affecting more and more people with each passing year. After all, we’re rarely separated from our phone over the course of a day, and even use them at nighttime.
Back in 2021, a phone addiction study by researchers from King’s College London was published in the Frontiers in Psychiatry journal. It was based on a five-question survey, and found that 38.9% of young people qualified as smartphone addicts. Many admitted being unable to control their usage and that it got in the way of other activities like work or studies. Furthermore, not having access to their smartphone brought on feelings of distress. It’s as if our smartphones are an extension of our bodies. And as if we’ve been amputated when they’re taken away from us.
So, what can people do about smartphone addiction? What about notifications? How can I know if I’m really a smartphone addict? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How much money makes you happy?
Are we heading for another stock market crash?
What are the dangers of using nitrous oxide - the laughing gas drug?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
How much money makes you happy?
Money can buy a lot, but can it buy happiness? This is a question that philosophers, economists, scientists and storytellers have puzzled over for some time; and if it can then does more money make you even happier?
According to Prof Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, director at the University of Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre there is a definite link between money and happiness, especially at the bottom of the pay scale. So for example someone earning £20,000 who moved to £40,000 would experience a significant boost in happiness. However, to achieve that same happiness boost, you’d have to move from £40,000 to £80,000, then again £80,000 to £160,000. In order to get the same impact, you have to double each time.
What about the ‘happiness Plateau’ theory? Do happy people earn more money? Isn't there more to happiness than income? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the dangers of using nitrous oxide - the laughing gas drug?
What are five foods that make us happy?
Why does smiling increase life expectancy?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
Are we heading for another stock market crash?
Until a little under two weeks ago, Silicon Valley Bank was the sixteenth largest bank in the United States, the favoured choice of tech startups due to the tailored services it provided. But by 10th March 2023, American authorities were taking control of SVB following its collapse. It had assets of over $200bn, making for the second biggest bank failure in US history.
There were a number of factors behind the collapse, and it’s causing concern as it’s common for one bank collapse to be followed by another, due to what’s called financial contagion. Indeed, just a few days later it was the turn of New York-based Signature Bank to collapse. And over in Europe, Switzerland’s second largest bank Crédit Suisse had to take out a $54bn to stay afloat, before then being bought out by the country’s largest bank UBS, in a bid to halt the crisis.
Why did Silicon Valley Bank collapse? How do stock market crashes happen? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the dangers of using nitrous oxide - the laughing gas drug?
What are five foods that make us happy?
Why does smiling increase life expectancy?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
What is "sushi terrorism", the viral pranks outraging Japan?
The term might sound like a bit of a joke, but sushi terrorism been no laughing matter for Japanese diners in recent weeks. In a country which is famed for its high standards in cleanliness, a series of viral pranks have been causing disgust and outrage.
One of the most viewed sushi terrorism videos has been seen over 100 million times. A Japanese teen licks the top of a bottle of soy sauce and puts it back on the sushi conveyor belt, and then does the same with a glass. To top it all off, he then licks his finger and touches a passing dish. Since early February, the phenomenon of sushi terrorism has been drawing attention, with dozens of similar videos published on Twitter and other social media platforms.
Sushi restaurants are pretty iconic in Japanese culture, aren’t they? Is the concept in danger now? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are the dangers of using nitrous oxide - the laughing gas drug?
What are five foods that make us happy?
Why does smiling increase life expectancy?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
[RERUN] What is Havana Syndrome?
For over five years now, a mysterious illness has been hitting US intelligence officers stationed in various overseas locations . As of mid-September 2021, over 200 cases had been recorded, which would seem far too many to be a coincidence...
It all started in Havana in 2016, which is how the Cuban capital ended up giving its name to the syndrome. Symptoms include migraines, tinnitus, vision problems and dizziness. The US Department of State has referred to “unexplained health incidents” in its communications, and many suspect foul play.
So what’s causing this syndrome? Have there been any investigations into it? Who could be behind Havana Syndrome attacks then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What are the dangers of using nitrous oxide - the laughing gas drug?
Why does smiling increase life expectancy?
Is moaning and grumbling good for mental health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
What are the dangers of using nitrous oxide - the laughing gas drug?
Nitrous oxide, which is also known as laughing gas, is sold in metal canisters and is one of the most commonly used drugs by teenagers and young people. However, heavy use can lead to a host of problems.
Prof Alastair Noyce, a consultant neurologist at Queen Mary University of London, told BBC News: "These are young people we are seeing - teenagers and people in their 20s. What's striking now is the severity. We've seen that increase over the last 12 months or so." Nitrous oxide is a gas that can be used for medical purposes, as an anaesthetic, and in the food industry.
Why do people use Nitrous oxide? What are the dangers? What is being done about this? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are five foods that make us happy?
Why does smiling increase life expectancy?
Is moaning and grumbling good for mental health?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
[RERUN] What is a zombie company?
If you’ve ever seen horror movies, you’ll know that when you see a zombie, you should start running! Well, the term is also used in the world of business to describe companies which are hugely indebted and only able to pay their fixed costs and interest, but not actually able to reduce the debt itself.
The phenomenon has been on the rise since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, with some zombie companies only surviving thanks to government grants. Much like the horror film creatures, you could say these companies are neither dead nor alive. Their productivity is massively impacted and there’s a knock-on effect on the wider economy.
How was the term coined? How widespread is the problem? What are the negative consequences of zombie firms? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What are five foods that make us happy?
Why does smiling increase life expectancy?
Is moaning and grumbling good for mental health?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/21/2023 • 5 minutes, 12 seconds
What are five foods that make us happy?
When you’re feeling a little blue, eating to feel better can be an appealing proposition. But the reality is we often turn to junk food or sugary treats that are high in calories and packed with salt or saturated fats.
Of course, our mood can be impacted by a number of factors and there’s no magic fix that will instantly make us feel better. But there are actually types of food out there that have been proven to improve brain health and thereby beat mood disorders.
Which foods are proven to improve brain health? Avocados are rich in Omega 3, aren’t they? Don’t bananas also contain tryptophan? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Do superfoods actually work?
Will Charles Bronson finally be freed?
What is Bregret?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/20/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
Why does smiling increase life expectancy?
An often cited estimate suggests that children smile an average of 400 times per day, while when we reach adulthood that figure drops to just 50 times, even for the happiest of us. For most adults, it’s more like 20 times.
Now of course most of the time we smile involuntarily in response to something bringing us joy or making us laugh. But it’s also possible to smile intentionally, which can actually bring on a whole host of health and wellness benefits.
What are the health benefits of smiling? Why do some people tend to smile more than others then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Do superfoods actually work?
Will Charles Bronson finally be freed?
What is Bregret?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
[RERUN] What is dissociative identity disorder?
Still to this day, this psychological condition is most often referred to by its previous name: multiple personality disorder. That’s in particular down to exaggerated representations in popular culture like books, TV or cinema. Some prominent examples are the story of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho or, more recently, Split.
Experts have criticised the use of DID as a plot device in such representations, saying they often confuse it with other disorders like psychosis or schizophrenia. They also perpetuate certain myths about people with mental illnesses. These include the idea that they are usually dangerous or have flamboyant personalities.
So what is DID really like then? Doesn’t that happen to everyone? Where does it come from? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Do superfoods actually work?
Will Charles Bronson finally be freed?
What is Bregret?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
Is moaning and grumbling good for mental health?
It is a bit of a stereotype that the Brits love to moan, with the weather and Brexit being among the most common causes of grumbling around the country. It might not always be pleasant around someone who’s complaining, but there is something deeply authentic about it.
What’s more, moaning can provide a form of relief and allow people to express their dissatisfaction, frustration or bad mood. That’s right; venting allows you to release pent-up emotions, which may relate to something that’s been bothering you for a while.
Sometimes it just feels good to vent, doesn’t it? What other kinds of moaning are there? Are there any tips that can help us? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Do superfoods actually work?
Will Charles Bronson finally be freed?
What is Bregret?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
Do superfoods actually work?
While it’s not a scientifically recognised food category, the term “superfoods” has become common when referring to certain foods that are very rich in nutrients and micronutrients. You may have heard about the disease-preventing wonders of seeds and algae for example, or weight loss benefits associated with fruits such as goji berries, spirulina, and pomegranates.
Let’s investigate whether all the hype is actually justified! Back in February 2019, health and fitness writer K. Aleisha Fetters penned an article for Vice.com under the headline “There’s No Such Thing As A Superfood.” Fetters said that superfoods are in reality “something between wishful thinking and really effective marketing.”
Is there any doubt as to whether they’re good for you? So, superfoods are actually useless then, are they? Can you give me any examples? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Will Charles Bronson finally be freed?
What is Bregret?
What is binge eating disorder?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/17/2023 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
Will Charles Bronson finally be freed?
Dubbed Britain's 'most dangerous prisoner' Charles Bronson, who now goes by Charles Salvador, is currently at HMP Woodhill in Milton Keynes, and has been in prison for much of the last 50 years. However, now at the age of 70, he went before the parole board on the 8th of March and could finally be released.
Bronson was first convicted in 1974 when he was 21 and was jailed for seven years for robbery, aggravated burglary, assault with intent to rob and possession of a firearm. However it is the violence in prison towards staff and other inmates, rather than outside that has extended his stay.
How did his prison career begin? What happened at his parole hearing? When will the decision be made? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Bregret?
What is binge eating disorder?
How can I reduce damp and mould in your home?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
[RERUN] What are neobanks?
Neobanks are 100% digital. They run exclusively through mobile apps, with no brick-and-mortar premises. They offer customers a user-first design, and promise low cost banking operations. There are more and more neobanks around, drawing in millions of users and rivalling traditional banks, although they don’t technically hold the same status.
Don’t confuse neobanks with digital banks, which are usually the online-only arms of bigger players in the banking sector. You may have heard of the SanFrancisco based neobank Chime, which is the leader in the US at the moment. But brands like N26, Revolut and Monzo are also bringing over their expertise from Europe, where the online-only trend is further ahead. All were created in the late 2010s.
So why would I want to try a neobank then? So what about our traditional brick-and-mortar banks? They’re not just going to disappear are they? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I reduce damp and mould in your home?
Why do I get vertigo?
How can I sleep well with a blocked nose?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
What is Bregret?
It’s been just over three years since Brexit came into effect and the latest YouGov poll from late February 2023 suggests that 53% of Brits now think it was wrong for the UK to leave the EU.
The infamous 2016 Brexit referendum exposed deep divisions within British society, which have only deepened since. Three prime ministers have come and gone since, and current PM Rishi Sunak is facing an unprecedented crisis, with the UK seemingly on the brink of economic and social implosion. Now Brexit is of course a portmanteau term in itself, which has led people to create other neologisms around the subject, including “Bregret”, a combination of Brexit and “regret”.
What does the population think of Brexit in 2023? What are the economic consequences of Brexit so far? How can the United Kingdom get back on track? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I reduce damp and mould in your home?
Why do I get vertigo?
How can I sleep well with a blocked nose?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
What is binge eating disorder?
Binge eating, also known as uncontrollable overeating, is an eating disorder. It is characterized by compulsive and excessive consumption of food within a specific period, usually not exceeding two hours, and a loss of control over eating behavior.
This means that a person can’t measure the amounts or types of food they are consuming, and may eat quickly without feeling full. This loss of control often leads to feelings of shame or disgust after a binge-eating episode. UK charity Action Mental Health says that 1 in 50 people experience binge eating disorder and the consequences are tragic. Of those affected, one in three consider taking their own life, and 70% avoid participating in activities due to their body image.
Is it similar to bulimia then? What causes binge eating disorder? How is binge eating disorder treated? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I reduce damp and mould in your home?
Why do I get vertigo?
How can I sleep well with a blocked nose?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/15/2023 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
How can I reduce damp and mould in your home?
According to Dr Yasemin Didem Aktas, deputy academic director of the UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings (UKCMB), “Mould is everywhere, all the time,” this is because the UK is a pretty wet country and so some level of mould, particularly in damp places like bathrooms or windows is to be expected.
However it is how we manage the mould and prevent it building up into dangerous levels that is important. If you notice patches of mould on walls or ceilings then it's time to do something to stop spores spreading in the air.
When is there too much? Why is mould bad for your health? How can I treat mould? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do I get vertigo?
How can I sleep well with a blocked nose?
How will the High Seas Treaty protect the oceans?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
[RERUN] What is instant-runoff voting?
Also known as the alternative vote, instant runoff voting is an election method in which voters rank candidates by order of preference. It’s not massively comm on across the globe, but some mathematicians believe it to be more democratic than other widely used systems.
Just because we have the right to vote, doesn’t mean we live in a perfect democracy. The voting system in use at an election can be decisive in its outcome . Between a majoritarian system, like first-past-the-post, a proportional system, or a mix of the two; you could have different victors.
So what’s the best method then? Does it work then? Is it used in some places? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do I get vertigo?
How can I sleep well with a blocked nose?
How will the High Seas Treaty protect the oceans?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/14/2023 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
Why do I get vertigo?
You’re standing or sitting perfectly still, but yet you feel like everything is spinning around you, as if you were on a theme park ride. You’ve been getting nausea and throwing up too. Well, the chances are you’re suffering from vertigo.
According to the NHS: "Vertigo can also feel like you're being pulled, tilted, or pushed to one side…[and is] often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, problems with balance, or difficulty moving." The causes can be varied, but generally speaking, vertigo is a balance disorder. Our balance system relies on information from many different organs and tissues within the body, including the eyes and ears for example.
Do we know what causes vertigo? Is having true vertigo serious? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How will the High Seas Treaty protect the oceans?
How to make the most out of a rental property?
What is CoreCore, the latest aesthetic taking over Tiktok?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
How can I sleep well with a blocked nose?
It’s not uncommon for rhinoviruses to resurface during the spring and autumn seasons. They’re the main cause of the common cold. At the same time, spring also brings increased pollen circulation, leading to hay fever symptoms which are very similar to those of a viral cold.
Having a blocked nose can be particularly bothersome, what with having to blow your nose every two minutes, sneezing, having a sore throat and sometimes getting a fever. Most of the time, all you want to do is rest. But that’s not easy when you have a cold. Let’s discuss some tips that can help you get a better night’s sleep!
Is there a way to stop coughing so much? Should I try sleeping in a certain position? What about drinking fluids? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How will the High Seas Treaty protect the oceans?
How to make the most out of a rental property?
What is CoreCore, the latest aesthetic taking over Tiktok?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
[RERUN] What is Lego?
The Danish toy brand Lego may be celebrating its 91th anniversary in 2023, but it’s showing no signs of slowing down! An average of 31 billion bricks are sold each year around the world, and the company appeals to a wide range of people.
Back in 1932, in the small Danish town of Billund, carpenter Ole Kirk Christiansen decided to expand his business by building small wooden toys. A couple of years later, Christiansen chose the name Lego, as an abbreviation of Leg Godt, which means “to play well” in Danish. It was only after the second world war that Lego started producing its first plastic bricks, when the material became more widely available in Denmark.
How did Lego start out? How did Lego stay so strong over the years? What about Lego's environmental footprint? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How to make the most out of a rental property?
What is CoreCore, the latest aesthetic taking over Tiktok?
How can I meditate without meditating?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
What's really in vegan meat substitutes?
Despite the rising popularity of vegan or vegetarian lifestyles, many people still love the taste and texture of meat, or simply can’t kick the habit, having eaten meat throughout their lifetimes. That explains why the vegan meat substitute market is thriving.
These 100% plant-based products are a good source of protein and closely resemble meat in a number of ways. But no doubt many of you who eat them have wondered whether they’re actually better for the planet or for human health.
So what’s actually in them? How so? Should we avoid meat substitutes then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How will the High Seas Treaty protect the oceans?
How to make the most out of a rental property?
What is CoreCore, the latest aesthetic taking over Tiktok?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/11/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
How will the High Seas Treaty protect the oceans?
On 4th March 2023, UN member states agreed a historic treaty that had been over fifteen years in the making. The High Seas Treaty is the first ever treaty to protect the world’s oceans outside national boundaries.
The aim is to meet the 30 by 30 biodiversity target, protecting 30% of the world’s oceans by the year 2030. Also known as the open sea or international waters, the high seas begin at the limit of countries’ exclusive economic zones. That means up to 370km, or 200 nautical miles, from the coastline. They account for 64% of the world’s oceans, and have been referred to as the last true wilderness, given how much mystery still lies within.
Why is protecting the oceans so important? What measures are expected to come from the treaty? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How to make the most out of a rental property?
What is CoreCore, the latest aesthetic taking over Tiktok?
How can I meditate without meditating?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/10/2023 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
How to make the most out of a rental property?
There are lots of advantages to renting rather than buying but one of the pitfalls is you have to live with your landlord's style choices. But just because you are renting does not mean you can’t adapt it to your own personal style without jeopardising your deposit. So here are some tips and advice about how to put your own flair into a temporary space.
First of all, if you do want to make changes like painting walls, adding wallpaper or putting up shelves you need to ask for permission from your landlord. Although these can be aesthetic and useful they can also be pricey and once you move out the landlord might ask you to put things back to how they were so it is worth considering carefully if you really need or want these changes. But there are lots of things you can do without making permanent adjustments to your home.
What changes should you avoid? How can I personalise my rental home? What if the place is unfurnished? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is CoreCore, the latest aesthetic taking over Tiktok?
How can I meditate without meditating?
What does my urine colour say about my health?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
[RERUN] What is a troll farm?
Trolls have been around for as long as the internet, but in recent years they've been getting professionalised. Indeed, companies have actually been set up with the specific aim of creating and spreading fake news online.
Such organisations are known as troll farms or troll factories, and Russia has been home to some of the most prominent. Based in the city of St Petersburg, its Internet Research Agency is perhaps the most well-known and influential in the world. More worrying still, these keyboard armies often operate at the behest of governments, for propaganda purposes. Needless to say, since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February, troll farms have been highly active in spreading disinformation.
When did troll farms first appear? How did we find out about the Internet Research Agency's actions? How do troll farms operate? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is CoreCore, the latest aesthetic taking over Tiktok?
How can I meditate without meditating?
What does my urine colour say about my health?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
What is CoreCore, the latest aesthetic taking over Tiktok?
The suffix “core” is often used to describe a trend or a niche, such as cottagecore, an attraction to meadows, farms, and flower dresses. Disneycore refers to anything related to Disney, and so on.
CoreCore is a play on this suffix; it means everything and nothing at the same time. Kieran Press-Reynolds, a Digital Culture Reporter at Insider interviewed by Time: "Through its name, Corecore makes itself sound like the antithesis of genre itself; its content can be anything, and its creators can use any type of media to convey a central premise."
Why are we people talking about it at the moment then? What is CoreCore used for? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I meditate without meditating?
What does my urine colour say about my health?
Is looking older a bad thing?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
Could date stacking really help me find love?
Looking for love in this day and age can be a time-consuming and draining process. More often than not, it involves downloading one or more dating apps, swiping through profile after profile, chatting for a while and then finally actually meeting up if it gets that far.
It can feel like a bit of a crap shoot, and when things don’t lead anywhere, that can be disheartening. Well, a trend called date stacking might be the answer to that problem. It’s been getting a fair amount of attention online recently, since Tiktokker Paretay posted a video account of her experience, which has been liked over 5,000 times.
What does it involve then? Is date stacking similar to speed dating then? Isn't it hard to keep up after a while? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How can I meditate without meditating?
What does my urine colour say about my health?
Is looking older a bad thing?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
How can I meditate without meditating?
Meditation is often sighted as a great way to relax, reduce stress and help us focus, but it can be difficult for lots of people to do in the traditional sense. However, meditation can be achieved without ever sitting down cross legged and focusing on your breathing.
“The whole idea with mindfulness is training your brain, you can do this just as well by being intentionally mindful throughout the day. I don’t think there’s a right or wrong way, and it’s important to do practices that resonate with you.” says Joy Rains, a mindfulness practitioner and author for the Guardian.
What is mindfulness? How do I achieve mindfulness? What other activities are good for meditation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What does my urine colour say about my health?
Is looking older a bad thing?
What is a Saturn return in astrology?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
[RERUN] What is International Women’s Day?
Every year, International Women’s Day falls on March 8th. It’s a global celebration of women’s achievements in economics, culture and politics.
Furthermore, it’s an important occasion to continue the struggle for women’s rights, with inequality still commonplace across the world. International Women’s Day is a public holiday in a number of countries in the world, including Russia and around a dozen former Soviet states. Meanwhile, in China, it is an official holiday but for women only!
How long has the celebration been around? What are women’s demands in this day and age? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What does my urine colour say about my health?
Is looking older a bad thing?
What is a Saturn return in astrology?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/7/2023 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
What does my urine colour say about my health?
Over the course of our lifetime, we around 34,000 litres of urine, according to Business Insider. Urine evacuates the nitrogen-containing waste produced by the organs and expelled into the blood, like urea and uric acid for example. It's also made up of water and mineral salts. It tends to be a clear shade of yellow, ranging from pale to dark at different times of the day.
Nevertheless, our pee can come in as many as ten different shades, which can on occasion lead to unpleasant surprises when going to the bathroom. Some are due to what we eat and drink,while others are caused by health conditions like urinary infections, diabetes or kidney stones. As we approach World Kidney Day, which falls on 9th March every year, let’s take a moment to go through all those various colours and what they may mean from a health perspective.
To start out, why is it yellow most of the time? What are the oddest colours urine can take on? What if the colour doesn’t go back to normal? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is eatertainment, the "next-level" dining experience?
Should vapes have the same restrictions as cigarettes?
Why do we get goosebumps?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
Is looking older a bad thing?
“Time and tide waits for no one”, the old saying goes, but it’s fair to say that some people are affected by symptoms of ageing earlier than others. And the latest study to come out of the University of Rotterdam suggests that there may be a link between how old we look, and how likely we are to develop certain age-related conditions.
The team of researchers published their findings in the British Journal of Dermatology in January 2023. They had studied a group of 2679 people aged between 51 and 87. Facial photographs were taken of each participant. They’d all been instructed not to wear any creams, make-up or jewellery. 27 assessors were then tasked with estimating the age of participants, based on the photos of their faces.
What evidence is that based on? Where does the link to health conditions come in? Is looking older linked to a higher mortality rate then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is eatertainment, the "next-level" dining experience?
Should vapes have the same restrictions as cigarettes?
Why do we get goosebumps?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
[RERUN] What is an IPA?
India Pale Ales stand out through their golden to amber colours, distinct bitterness and fruitiness. Why such characteristics? Well, it’s all down to hops actually, which are used in greater quantities when brewing IPAs.
The name is actually a little misleading, in that it doesn't mean that the beer was brewed in India at all. Rather it refers to the fact that in the 18th century, Britain exported this kind of beer to its empire in the east, via a gruelling six-month sea route to India, passing through the North Atlantic, around Africa and then into the Indian Ocean. Hops actually act as a preservative, so using more meant the beer was better protected during those long sea journeys.
Who came up with it then? Have they always been as popular as they are nowadays? What do IPAs pair well with? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is eatertainment, the "next-level" dining experience?
Should vapes have the same restrictions as cigarettes?
Why do we get goosebumps?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/5/2023 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
What is a Saturn return in astrology?
Astrology has had a real revival in these last few years, in particular among the younger generations. You may remember we ran an episode on the subject not long ago. Most likely you’ve heard your friends talk about astrology at some point in time, or read about it online.
Maybe someone in your family started using a specific term as part of their everyday vocabulary. Well, we’re here to decipher those terms for you. Astrology is based on the positions of the planets and stars at the moment we’re born. That’s what supposedly determines their influence on our lives. That’s why dates and places are used to establish an astral theme. And if you ask astrology fans which planets have the most impact on our lives, the chances are they may well cite Saturn, and perhaps even refer to the renowned phenomenon of a Saturn return.
How do I know when a Saturn return is coming then? Why are astrologists so interested in Saturn? So everyone has their Saturn return around the same time of their lives do they? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is eatertainment, the "next-level" dining experience?
Should vapes have the same restrictions as cigarettes?
Why do we get goosebumps?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
How can I avoid putting on weight when giving up smoking?
According to the Office for National Statistics, the number of smokers in the UK is estimated at 6.6 million. The proportion has been steadily dropping for years now. Given the health risks, you’d think smokers would be delighted to give up, but the prospect of putting on weight is a cause of concern for many.
To be fair, it i’s a well-founded fear to some extent. In 2014, Addiction journal reported that the average prevalence of weight gain after quitting smoking was 80%. In such cases, the average weight gain is 5 - 10lb. Of course, putting on a few pounds is far less dangerous than continuing to smoke, so the choice to quit should still be a no-brainer. Nevertheless, let’s delve deeper into the post-quitting weight gain phenomenon.
What effects do cigarettes have on the body? It must be difficult not to start compulsive eating, mustn’t it? What about going on a diet? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is eatertainment, the "next-level" dining experience?
Should vapes have the same restrictions as cigarettes?
Why do we get goosebumps?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
Why are supermarkets limiting the sale of some food?
Lidl, following on from Tesco, Aldi, Asda and Morrisons, is the latest supermarket to put a limit on how much fruit and vegetables people can buy. Peppers, tomatoes and cucumbers will be limited to 3 per customer for the moment.
“As advised to our customers through signage in our stores last week, adverse weather conditions in Spain and Morocco have recently impacted the availability of certain salad items across the supermarket sector,” a spokesperson said. The shortage is due, in part, to the cold weather conditions that have affected crops in Spain and North Africa, while British and Dutch growers, who usually plant salads in greenhouses in the colder months have been affected by the rise in energy costs and supermarkets unwilling to cover the increased cost of heating.
What has caused this shortage? Could there be other food shortages? What is being done to solve the problem? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is eatertainment, the "next-level" dining experience?
Should vapes have the same restrictions as cigarettes?
Why do we get goosebumps?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/2/2023 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
[RERUN] What is Jurassic Park?
Jurassic World Dominion concludes the storyline which first started out in the original Jurassic Park trilogy, from 1993 onwards. Reviews of the latest film have so far been poor, but that won’t take anything away from the legendary franchise’s legacy. Let’s look back at some of the main talking points and secrets behind Jurassic Park.
The first two Jurasic Park films, both directed by Steven Spielberg, were adapted from novels by Michael Crichton. No surprises there. But what most people don’t know is that the two were actually working on another project, based on Crichton’s career as an emergency room physician. When Crichton told Spielberg about Jurassic Park, the director was so enthused he scrapped the other film. Universal Studios beat out stiff competition to buy the rights for $1.5M, before the first novel had even been finished!
How did Jurassic Park make it onto the big screen in the first place? What are some of the lesser known moments? What about the actors and characters? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is eatertainment, the "next-level" dining experience?
Should vapes have the same restrictions as cigarettes?
Why do we get goosebumps?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What is eatertainment, the "next-level" dining experience?
The term is a bit of a mouthful in more ways than one, but eatertainment has been growing rapidly in recent years. Of course, it’s the contraction of “eat” and “entertainment”, and refers to when eating out is more than just a meal; it has a unique entertainment aspect too.
A cinema that allows visitors to enjoy a meal during a film showing, or an indoor mini-golf course which you can play on while eating bar snacks. Eatertainment has been around for a while now, first taking off in the 2000s. And there’s certainly a generational aspect to the trend’s popularity. According to ModernRestaurantManagement.com, 78% of millennials prefer spending their money on experiences, rather than material products.
What’s the appeal for customers? Where in the world is eatertainment most popular? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Should vapes have the same restrictions as cigarettes?
Why do we get goosebumps?
What is Oculus, Russia's new repressive AI tool?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
Will Facebook and Instagram start charging users?
Rumours about Meta starting to charge for its social media platforms Facebook and Instagram have been circulating for a long time now, and finally it has become a reality. On 19th February, CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the creation of a $11.99 per month subscription for web users, which rises to $14.99 on Android and iOS devices.
Rest assured, free access will still be available as it has always been, but the new Meta Verified service offers some additional benefits that non-paying users won’t get. Despite Facebook and Instagram having some shared features, those who want Meta Verified on both platforms will have to pay twice. Right now the service is limited to individuals, with a minimum age restriction of 18. So businesses can’t use it for example.
How will the paid version be different? What features does it have? Is the blue tick the only feature? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Should vapes have the same restrictions as cigarettes?
Why do we get goosebumps?
What is Oculus, Russia's new repressive AI tool?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
Should vapes have the same restrictions as cigarettes?
In the UK you can only buy vapes or e-cigarettes if you are over 18, but the bright packaging, fruit flavors and affordable prices attracts teenagers who often use disposable single-use products like Elf and Geek bars. Now campaigners are calling for tighter restrictions on vapes to bring them more into line with cigarettes.
The Local Government Association (LGA), which represents councils in England, is asking for vapes to adhere to the same rules as cigarettes. This would mean they would have to be sold in plain packaging and kept out of reach and sight of children behind shop counters.
What would this change for Vapes? Are vapes harmful? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do we get goosebumps?
What is Oculus, Russia's new repressive AI tool?
Why are young people in Berlin being paid to party?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Door to Hell?
At 230 metres in diameter and 100 feet deep, it’s fair to describe the Darvaza Gas crater in Turkmenistan as colossal. This geological marvel is nicknamed the Door to Hell, and it's not the dimensions alone that make it unique. The crater has been spurting flames for half a century now, burning continuously ever since its formation in 1971.
It’s actually become the Central Asian country’s biggest tourist attraction by far, drawing in 10,000 visitors each year. But as you might expect, a burning gas crater does come with its fair share of safety hazards. Air around the edge of the crater is thick and hot, and it emits burning gusts of wind.
How natural is the Door to Hell then? Why will the fire soon stop burning? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why do we get goosebumps?
What is Oculus, Russia's new repressive AI tool?
Why are young people in Berlin being paid to party?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/28/2023 • 3 minutes, 52 seconds
Why do we get goosebumps?
The term goose bumps appeared way back in the 17th century, and describes the well-known phenomenon which shows up when we’re cold, scared or simply feeling strong emotions. For example, going out underdressed in winter, hearing the sound of fingernails on a chalkboard, or watching a horror film.
Yes, indeed it can seem rather odd, but just like everything our bodies do, there’s a very logical explanation as to why they exist. Goosebumps are caused by the contraction of small muscles which are attached to our hair follicles. When that happens, hairs on our bodies are forced up, standing on their ends. The reflex is also known as piloerection.
It makes our skin look like poultry, doesn’t it? What about these days? Can we control when goosebumps appear? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Can I prevent hair loss?
Is using deodorant safe?
What is second child syndrome, the feeling affecting Prince Harry?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
What is Oculus, Russia's new repressive AI tool?
It’s been just over a year now since Vladimir Putin sent Russian forces in to invade Ukraine. Since then, Russia has also intensified a long-standing disinformation war via traditional and digital media outlets. It wants to restore what it says is the truth, in the face of attacks from the West.
For example, Russians are forbidden from referring to the Ukraine conflict as a “war”. Instead they must call it a “special operation”. In mid-February, Russian state press agency Tass announced the launch of an automated internet-scanning system to detect any illegal content, which basically means anything that goes against the official party line.
How exactly will Oculus work then? Why did Tass refer to LGBT propaganda specifically? Could you say the noose is tightening around the Russian population? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Can I prevent hair loss?
Is using deodorant safe?
What is second child syndrome, the feeling affecting Prince Harry?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
[RERUN] What is hogging?
As 2021 draws to close, let’s discuss a word which has become more and more widespread in the United States at the end of the year. This contemptible practice was called out by young woman Megan Mapes on TikTok in October 2021. She had herself been a victim of hogging in an American college.
The sexist and fat phobic ritual has caught on in some fraternities in the US. Male students compete to have sex with the establishment’s fattest girls, simply for their own amusement and as part of a twisted challenge. Some frat boys boast to their peers about having sex with an overweight girl when it happens. There have even been occasions when they have come into the bedroom while the act is happening, to harass and mock the victim.
Are these students fat fetishists then? And why are we hearing about hogging now? Have there been other instances of hogging? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Can I prevent hair loss?
Is using deodorant safe?
What is second child syndrome, the feeling affecting Prince Harry?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
Why are young people in Berlin being paid to party?
Have you ever really wanted to have a night out, but felt you just couldn’t justify spending all that money? I magine you could hit up your city’s biggest nightlife venues, courtesy of the local authorities. Well that’s becoming a reality for young people in the German capital of Berlin.
Residents aged 18-23 have until the end of February to sign up for the new “Jugendkulturkarte”. It comes loaded with €50 worth of credit that can be used by the end of April. It’s valid on museum visits, cinema screenings and concert tickets for example. Many cities run similar schemes, but what makes the Berlin “Jugendkulturkarte” unique is that the Senate Department for Culture and Europe decided that 9 nightclubs should be eligible too.
How did nightclubs end up on a list of cultural venues? Why is techno so important? What is the cultural significance of techno? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Can I prevent hair loss?
Is using deodorant safe?
What is second child syndrome, the feeling affecting Prince Harry?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
Can I prevent hair loss?
According to UK charity The Men’s Health Forum, two thirds of all men are affected by male pattern baldness in their lifetime. That won’t be a surprise to anyone, but would you have guessed that an estimated 50% of women also experience noticeable hair loss according to the Cleveland Clinic.
We actually have around 100,000 hair follicles on our head, of which we lose between 50 and 100 every day, completely naturally. Hair loss isn’t usually any cause for real concern on its own, but of course it can be caused by cancer treatment. Even if a person’s health isn’t affected by their hair loss, It can still be an upsetting experience. Some types of hair loss are temporary. This can happen when a person has an iron deficiency, is stressed or loses weight suddenly due to a restrictive diet for example.
Isn’t hair loss mostly hereditary? Are there any ways of stopping it? What about hair transplants? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Is using deodorant safe?
What is second child syndrome, the feeling affecting Prince Harry?
What are the most addictive foods?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 45 seconds
Is using deodorant safe?
In May 2022 a 14 year old girl, Giorgia Green, died from inhaling deodorant. The teenager, who was on the autistic spectrum, liked to spray deodorant on her blankets as she found the smell comforting. "The smell of it gave her a certain sense of relaxation," said her father.
Sadly her cause of death was found to be "unascertained but consistent with inhalation of aerosol” and although it is not common she is not alone. According to the Office for National Statistics, (ONS) "deodorant" was mentioned on 11 death certificates between 2001 and 2020. Though, it is likely that the actual number of deaths are higher than this, due to the fact that specific substances are not always mentioned on death certificates.
What is dangerous in deodorant? Why are people not being made aware of the danger? Should we stop using aerosol deodorants? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is second child syndrome, the feeling affecting Prince Harry?
What are the most addictive foods?
Is period underwear really better for the environment?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
[RERUN] Why do we get verrucas?
Also known as plantar warts, verrucas are usually found on the soles of the feet, but can sometimes be seen between the toes or on the heels too. You may remember catching one at your school swimming lessons as a child.
Verrucas have a reputation for being a nuisance. Firstly, let’s face it, like all kinds of warts they’re pretty unsightly. They look like small, rough, thickened skin. But that’s not the only reason why they’re a pain. If you’re unlucky, they can take time to go away, and come back over and over again. Verrucas are grown inwards and have a black pinpoint in the centre which is called the “wart seed”. That’s basically where your blood has clotted on the surface of your skin.
So what are the main causes behind verrucas then? Are they dangerous? Do you have any tips for avoiding getting a verruca? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is second child syndrome, the feeling affecting Prince Harry?
What are the most addictive foods?
Is period underwear really better for the environment?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/23/2023 • 3 minutes, 52 seconds
What are the most addictive foods?
Whether it’s pizza, chocolate, ice cream or French fries, you’ve no doubt noticed that your favourite guilty pleasure food just seems to be so addictive! You start eating and you just can’t stop. Why is that then?
Actually, it’s because of their high sugar, fat or salt content. Unfortunately, some highly processed foods contain a combination of all three. That can lead to a dopamine surge, which is sometimes as strong as what people get from nicotine. The taste, texture, or composition of these addictive foods activate the reward system and make us want to eat them over and over. We’re no longer eating out of hunger, but due to a craving for instant pleasure.
Are there any studies on the subject? How on earth can we tell the difference between indulgence and addiction then? What should I do if I feel addicted to a type of food? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Is period underwear really better for the environment?
What are the best ways to keep warm outdoors?
How can I avoid always feeling hungry?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
What is second child syndrome, the feeling affecting Prince Harry?
In January 2023, Prince Harry published his memoirs, in the form of an autobiography entitled "Spare". The book led to a lot of controversy, particularly regarding the relationship between Harry and his brother William, the future King of England.
A number of observers have suggested that Prince Harry suffers from second child syndrome. For example, behavioural expert Abdullah Boulad was quoted by the Daily Express and other media outlets as saying: “In the long term, Harry may focus for the rest of his life on blaming others for his missed childhood and life circumstances.”
What are the negative effects of this syndrome? How can I as a parent prevent second child syndrome? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Is period underwear really better for the environment?
What are the best ways to keep warm outdoors?
How can I avoid always feeling hungry?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
Is period underwear really better for the environment?
Period underwear came out in 2013 but has increased in popularity, largely as they claim to be better for the environment and easy to use.
However, in January 2023 Thinx, a leading US manufacturer of period underwear who branded themself as a sustainable alternative to single-use menstrual products has just settled a lawsuit regarding the presence of PFAs, also known as “forever chemicals.” Now people are wondering if period underwear is really as good as companies have made them out to be.
What is period underwear? What are forever chemicals? What alternatives are there to period underwear? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the best ways to keep warm outdoors?
How can I avoid always feeling hungry?
How did female body hair become taboo?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
[RERUN] Does voluntourism do more harm than good?
Voluntourism is the practice of volunteering one’s labour to a charitable cause in a developing country, in return for a soul-cleansing, perspective-changing, CV-bolstering experience. Perhaps a bit cynical? But with good reason.
Whilst it could be a mutually beneficial redistribution of wealth from the developed world to the developing, voluntourism harbours a dark and exploitative underworld. In 2021, NPR.org reported that the industry was worth an estimated $3 billion per year, according to University of Strathclyde lecturer Konstantinos Tomazos.
What is voluntourism? Can it really be that bad? Is voluntourism at all beneficial? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are the best ways to keep warm outdoors?
How can I avoid always feeling hungry?
How did female body hair become taboo?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What are the best ways to keep warm outdoors?
A lot of people are reluctant to go out in the cold during the winter season. It's a real shame, as there are many ways in which you can protect yourself from low or even sub-zero temperatures. You've probably been told it a million times since you were a kid, but it bears repeating: you need to wrap up warm! The clothes you wear outdoors trap warm air inside.
A good starting point is wearing a cotton T-shirt to absorb sweat and thereby neutralise humidity, which can exacerbate feelings of cold.Then wear a sweater or warm jacket made of high-quality material like wool, cashmere or alpaca. Finally, a decent coat or windcheater on top, as well as a scarf, gloves and most importantly a woolly hat or beanie, as 30% of warmth leaves the body via the head.
Does drinking hot drinks before going out help? How about when we actually get outside? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is phubbing, the annoying habit that can ruin relationships?
Is wine in cans better for the environment?
What is the Dunning Kruger effect, the phenomenon that causes overconfidence?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/20/2023 • 3 minutes, 59 seconds
How can I avoid always feeling hungry?
The feeling of hunger can be difficult to explain sometimes, especially if you feel like you've eaten as much as you usually do. As a result, we often end up either snacking or putting up with a rumbling tummy for hours on end.
Even if we manage to resist snacking, the risk is that when it gets to meal time we end up eating twice as much as usual! Feelings of hunger can also lead to a drop in energy or concentration problems. A number of factors can explain not feeling full after eating. One is not getting breakfast “right”. If you skip it completely, or eat something too sweet, that could well be why you get hungry later on.
What if I'm not hungry in the morning? What about at lunchtime? What should I do if even sticking to those guidelines, I still feel hungry? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is phubbing, the annoying habit that can ruin relationships?
Is wine in cans better for the environment?
What is the Dunning Kruger effect, the phenomenon that causes overconfidence?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
[RERUN] What is healthwashing?
We’ve already talked about greenwashing, pinkwashing and sportswashing in past episodes. Well even the world of health doesn’t escape from cynical marketing practices. Let’s talk about healthwashing.
Well the term covers a pretty wide range of practices, but it’s most commonly associated with the food industry. Manufacturers often overplay the addition of certain nutritious items in their products, implying that there are real health benefits to be gained. You might see labels using buzzwords such as : “contains natural flavours” or “made with real fruit” while in reality the products may actually be comparable to other processed foods.
What exactly does it consist of? It’s still pretty common in the grand scheme of things, isn’t it? If it’s as simple as reading a label correctly, we should be OK, shouldn’t we? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is going to the cinema so romantic?
What is prowling, yet another toxic dating trend?
How often should I wash my hair?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
How did female body hair become taboo?
According to Healthline.com, the human body has around 5 million hair follicles. Now you might not have guessed, but that figure is around the same for both men and women. And our body hair has a lot of important functions.
It helps regulate body temperature by keeping us warm or retaining sweat to cool us down. It also protects sensitive parts of our bodies from infection, like the eyes and genitals. And yet, women often go to great lengths to have their body hair removed, and there’s a taboo around having hairy armpits or other body parts. It’s in no small part down to gendered social control.
Is body hair removal a recent development? When did that become the case? What about pubic hair? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is phubbing, the annoying habit that can ruin relationships?
Is wine in cans better for the environment?
What is the Dunning Kruger effect, the phenomenon that causes overconfidence?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
What is phubbing, the annoying habit that can ruin relationships?
Today, we’re talking about a new phenomenon that affects social interactions. Phubbing is something we've all likely experienced or done ourselves at some point. The term is a portmanteau of "phone" and "snubbing", and refers to the act of looking at your phone instead of paying attention to someone else in a social situation.
It’s becoming increasingly common as our reliance on our mobile devices continues to grow. The term was first introduced in 2012 by Australian advertising agency Maccann Erickson, as part of a campaign for the Macquarie Dictionary. The “A Word is Born” campaign was designed to demonstrate that language is constantly evolving and hence having an up-to-date dictionary is important.
Where does the term come from? Why do people phub then? How can we avoid phubbing someone? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Is wine in cans better for the environment?
What is the Dunning Kruger effect, the phenomenon that causes overconfidence?
Why does time go by faster with age?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/17/2023 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
Is wine in cans better for the environment?
First there were screw top wines, then wine in boxes and now the latest alternative is wine in cans. Although it’s still relatively niche, it's a fast growing market, making up around 10 % of overall wine sales in the US according to the Food Science and Human Nutrition Department at the University of Florida.
Glass bottles, according to a 2014 study by the Wine Institute, an industry association of California wineries, found that glass bottles accounted for 29% of the carbon footprint of wine. This however does not include the impact of transport or take into account the method used to create glass bottles in the first place which is itself very energy intensive. And, although glass is recyclable only 31% of bottles compared to 50% of aluminium cans are recycled in the US.
How is wine in cans better for the environment? What are the other advantages of wine in cans? But what about the taste? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Dunning Kruger effect, the phenomenon that causes overconfidence?
Why does time go by faster with age?
Can you improve your relationship by learning your love language?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
[RERUN] Why are there so many spin offs in the world of cinema?
On the 3rd of February 2023, Charles Michel, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, to discuss Ukraine's European path and the accession process.
The EU has a mutual defence clause, which guarantees protection for any member state coming under attack on its own territory. Since the start of the war, there has been speculation over whether Russian aggression could spread elsewhere, accelerating talks about Ukraine's EU membership. The Council on Foreign Relations suggested that a period of ten to twenty years would be realistic. And that would be after the war ended, which could itself take some time, given how events have been unfolding to date.
How does a contry obtain EU membership? What are the possible obstacles? Could there be any kind of compromise measure? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Dunning Kruger effect, the phenomenon that causes overconfidence?
Why does time go by faster with age?
Can you improve your relationship by learning your love language?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/16/2023 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
What is the Dunning Kruger effect, the phenomenon that causes overconfidence?
Charles Darwin once wrote that “Ignorance more frequently begets confidence than does knowledge”, and real-life situations which reflect that are all too common. To cite just one prominent example, in January 1995, American men MacArthur Wheeler and Clifton Earl Johnson were arrested after carrying out coordinated bank robberies in the state of Pennsylvania.
Incredibly, they didn’t bother wearing masks, as they believed that rubbing lemon juice on their faces would make them invisible to security cameras. Actually no, but bear with me; I’m getting there. The case got a lot of media coverage, and piqued the curiosity of social psychologists David Dunning and Justin Kruger at Cornell University. They wanted to know how on earth someone could be so damn sure of themselves while believing something completely stupid.
Where does this effect come from? Is that what the Dunning and Kruger effect is then? What are the consequences of the Dunning Kruger effect? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Can you improve your relationship by learning your love language?
Why is going to the cinema so romantic?
What is prowling, yet another toxic dating trend?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
Why does time go by faster with age?
Do you remember how as a kid, it would always seem like an eternity waiting for Christmas or your birthday to come around? But having reached adulthood, it seems like the years just fly by.
It’s a funny thing, but as we get older, time simply seems to go by quicker. Of course in reality the passage of time doesn’t change at all. But it’s been established that our perception of time passing is altered as we age. In recent years, American mechanical engineering professor Adrian Bejan came up with a new theory on the subject, which was published in the European Review journal in March 2019. He suggested that as we grow older our brain’s cognitive abilities wane.
What research has been done into that phenomenon? Are there any other theories out there? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Can you improve your relationship by learning your love language?
Why is going to the cinema so romantic?
What is prowling, yet another toxic dating trend?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
Can you improve your relationship by learning your love language?
Gary Chapman is the author of The Five Love Languages, a book first published in 1992 that outlines how people express and experience love. He argues that romantic miscommunications come about due to people expressing love to one another using different “languages”, and therefore struggle to understand one another.
But, if you understand your own love language, you can ask for what you need and be in tune to the needs of your partner. According to Chapman, the different ways people can communicate their love is through; acts of service, gift-giving, physical touch, quality time, and words of affirmation.
What are the 5 languages? Is there any science behind love languages? How does knowing the love languages help relationships? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is going to the cinema so romantic?
What is prowling, yet another toxic dating trend?
How often should I wash my hair?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
[VALENTINE'S DAY] What is Valentine's Day?
This annual celebration of love and passion needs no introduction. Among those who partake in Valentine's Day, you’ve got those who go all out every year, never failing to honour the occasion and make sure everyone knows about it. Then there are others who prefer a quiet romantic night in with their partner.
At the other end of the scale, some people sulk instead, telling anyone who’ll listen just how pointless or old-fashioned the whole thing is. In modern times, Valentine’s Day is certainly a highly commercialised holiday, but believe it or not, its origins go back nearly 2000 years and are influenced by Pagan and Christian rituals.
So who is this Saint Valentine anyway? Wait a minute, he was executed and now he's celebrated? How did the Valentine's Day traditions evolve from then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is going to the cinema so romantic?
What is prowling, yet another toxic dating trend?
How often should I wash my hair?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/14/2023 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
Why is going to the cinema so romantic?
As date night options go, the cinema is a timeless classic which can be both fun and romantic. Even in the age of “Netflix and chill”, there’s an appeal to the immersive experience you can only get watching a film on the big screen. So if you’re wondering what to do this Valentine’s Day, why not book a cinema visit?
You may not be having a conversation, but you can interpret body language. If it’s a first date, and they’re on their phone all the time, that might be off putting. If your date is comfortable enough to hold your hand or let you put your arm around their shoulder without it being awkward, that’s a good sign. Of course, don’t be pushy or intrusive. Make sure you ask your date for consent before trying any kind of physical intimacy.
How can you have a good date when you’re not even talking to one another during the film? Any tips for a great cinema date? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How often should I wash my hair?
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/13/2023 • 3 minutes, 43 seconds
What is prowling, yet another toxic dating trend?
“You’re hot and you’re cold, you're yes then you're no, you're in then you're out, you're up then you're down.” So goes Katy Perry’s hit single Hot n Cold back in 2008, talking about a romantic relationship which is unstable due to one of the partner’s mood swings.
Maybe you yourself have been with someone like that in the past. They would shower you with attention one day, only to ghost you the next. There’s actually a term in the dating world for that kind of person: a prowler! Another perfect example from fiction is the character of Jasper in Nancy Meyers’ Christmas film The Holiday, played by Rufus Sewell. Check it out if you haven’t seen it!
Don’t predators “prowl” in the wild? What negative effects can prowling have? How can I protect myself from a prowler? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How often should I wash my hair?
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
[VALENTINE'S DAY] What is Galentine's Day?
Do You Really Know talks about love for Valentine's Day on February 14th! To understand everything about love relationships and current dating methods, we decipher together the new concepts that make love today.
With Valentine's Day less than a week away. But even though it's a highly commercialized tradition, many of you may find this holiday ridiculous, for a variety of reasons. For example, why should love only be celebrated within a couple? True friendships can be just as strong, so why shouldn’t we celebrate them in a similar way? Well, the creators of Galentine’s Day certainly think women can and should do so!
Who came up with the idea? And what exactly happens at a Galentine's Day party? Has Galentine's Day crossed the borders of pop culture? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How often should I wash my hair?
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
What are the secrets to a long lasting relationship?
Do You Really Know talks about love for Valentine's Day on February 14th! To understand everything about love relationships and current dating methods, we decipher together the new concepts that make love today.
According to the Daily Mail, the “seven year itch” in relationships is now a thing of the past. The average relationship length is just two years and nine months, according to a UK survey from 2014. Since the late 20th century, long-lasting relationships have tended to be the exception rather than the norm. It’s a trend that has fascinated researchers, with many carrying out studies in search of the secrets behind a lasting relationship.
What can we learn from those studies then? What about physical signs of affection? What factors are giveaways that a relationship won’t last then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How often should I wash my hair?
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/11/2023 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
Do aphrodisiacs really work?
Do You Really Know talks about love for Valentine's Day on February 14th! To understand everything about love relationships and current dating methods, we decipher together the new concepts that make love today.
You’ve no doubt heard that certain foods can increase desire, or even improve sexual performance. Oysters, ginger, chocolate and strawberries are just a few examples of foods that supposedly have that magical effect. They’re labelled aphrodisiacs, a word which comes from the name of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. There are very few scientific studies out there to back that belief up. In people who have blood circulation issues, some foods can have the same effect as Viagra, which relaxes the blood vessels and thereby improves blood flow to the genitals.
Can food really have an impact on our level of sexual desire? What about alcohol? So why do people keep talking about aphrodisiacs if they don’t really work? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Calimero syndrome?
What is Lucky Girl syndrome, this new method that is all the rage on Tik Tok?
How often should I wash my hair?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/10/2023 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
How can I move house stress-free?
Moving house can be very stressful so here are some tips and advice to make it go as smoothly as possible. Moving house is also a great opportunity to declutter. It’s time to see what sparks joy in the words of Marie Kondo.
Take some time to go through your belongings and decide what you need, use and want. There is no point in packing and moving a lot of things, especially if you plan to move them yourself, that you end up getting rid of as soon as you unpack. Consider donating things that are in good condition to charity or putting them up on a freecycle app or even selling them.
What can I do before the move? How can I make the big day go smoothly? What else can I do to make it go well? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Calimero syndrome?
What is Lucky Girl syndrome, this new method that is all the rage on Tik Tok?
How often should I wash my hair?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
[VALENTINE'S DAY] What is sologamy?
Do You Really Know talks about love for Valentine's Day on February 14th! To understand everything about love relationships and current dating methods, we decipher together the new concepts that make love today.
As it turns out, the traditional relationship may be out of fashion. More and more millennials are considering sologamy as a lifestyle choice. The idea of getting married to oneself might seem strange, but the trend has certainly grown in popularity in recent years, with women in particular choosing to put a ring on their own finger and commit to keeping themselves happy for life.
Where does the idea of self-marriage come from? Isn’t getting married everyone’s dream? Does sologamy work then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How often should I wash my hair?
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What is Calimero syndrome?
Calimero is a black chick with a half-broken eggshell on his head. He’s always complaining about something or other, with “But it’s an injustice” being his favourite line. A more recent animated version of the cartoon appeared on Disney Junior in the UK in the 2010s.
Maybe you can think of someone you know in real life who’s an eternal complainer. Is there any chance other people might think that way about you? Well, French psychoanalyst Saverio Tomasella went as far as naming a syndrome after the cartoon chick. He released The Calimero Syndrome as a book in 2017, covering it extensively.
Isn’t it normal to complain when things don’t go our way? So why do Calimeros complain so much then? How can I beat Calimero syndrome? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Lucky Girl syndrome, this new method that is all the rage on Tik Tok?
How often should I wash my hair?
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
How will our bodies adapt to climate change?
As we enter 2023, we’re desperately looking for ways to combat human-induced climate change. It’s a worthy cause, but it’s clear that some irreversible effects have already happened, and that will continue for some time.
So it would be foolish not to prepare for the reality of living on a planet which has undergone significant warming. There’s relatively little known about how our bodies will react, which is why France’s Human Adaptation Institute set up three Deep Climate expeditions to take place between December 2022 and June 2023. The project will help researchers understand better how the human body adapts to intense conditions. A team of 20 volunteer “climatonauts” with no field experience will be accompanied by explorer and project organiser Christian Clot.
What goes on during the expeditions? What bodily functions do we have to deal with climate change? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Lucky Girl syndrome, this new method that is all the rage on Tik Tok?
How often should I wash my hair?
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What is Lucky Girl syndrome, this new method that is all the rage on Tik Tok?
You might be familiar with the expression ‘you make your own luck’ or with the idea of thinking positively to create a positive outcome - some people refer to it as ‘manifesting’. But now, a new trend on the social media platform TikTok has taken it one step further with what has been dubbed ‘lucky girl syndrome’.
Essentially you tell yourself that everything just works out for you and that you are the luckiest person with phrases like ‘everything just always works out for me’ or I always get what I want’ and just like that you now have Lucky Girl Syndrome. It first started on TikTok in December 2022, when creator Laura Galebe posted a video explaining how she believes she gets “the most insane opportunities” simply by “expecting great things” to happen.
How does it work? Is there any evidence that it works? What are the problems with Lucky Girl Syndrome? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How often should I wash my hair?
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/7/2023 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
[VALENTINE'S DAY] What is sneating?
Do You Really Know talks about love for Valentine's Day on February 14th! To understand everything about love relationships and current dating methods, we decipher together the new concepts that make love today.
Pretty much every romantic relationship starts out with a first date, whether it's online, on an outdoor walk, over drinks or at a restaurant. But it turns out when some people choose the latter option, they may have a hidden agenda. Sneating is a dubious new dating trend, whereby a person accepts a restaurant date with the sole intention of dining out on someone else’s dime.
How did this become a thing? Why do that though? Sneating is still a little wrong though isn't it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
How often should I wash my hair?
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
How often should I wash my hair?
When it comes to washing our hair, many of us stick to a specific routine purely out of habit. It’s not uncommon for people to wash their hair with shampoo every day, which can actually have adverse effects.
At the end of the scale, you’ve got those who’ve embraced the no poo movement and don’t use shampoo at all. The trend really took off during Covid-19 lockdown, although there is still somewhat of a stigma about washing your hair too infrequently. We don’t necessarily stop to consider what is really the best option for our hair. Let’s look at how you can avoid doing more harm than good.
How does shampoo actually work? What factors should we be taking into account? How will I know it’s time to wash? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
Why has the Doomsday Clock moved 10 seconds closer to midnight?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
How do I know if I sleepwalk?
Sleepwalking is a disorder that comes on during the deep sleep phase, from one to three hours after falling asleep. Episodes can last from 5 to 30 minutes and despite the condition’s name, they don’t always involve walking. Often people just rub their eyes, sit up on their bed or talk in their sleep.
According to the NHS, one in five children will sleepwalk at least once in their life. Meanwhile, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine says that prevalence in adults is up to 4%. So it’s clearly more common in kids than in adults, and most kids tend to grow out of it when they hit their teens. Bear in mind a tendency to sleepwalk can be inherited.
Is it a common disorder? How on earth am I as an adult going to realise if I sleepwalk? How responsible are we for our actions when sleepwalking? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
Why has the Doomsday Clock moved 10 seconds closer to midnight?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
[RERUN] Is drinking decaf bad for my health?
Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world, with an average of 98 million cups consumed in the UK every day, according to the British Coffee Association.
In moderation, there are plenty of benefits to be gained from drinking coffee, but there can also be some negative side effects, in particular due to its caffeine content. Decaf is an alternative, but is it really healthier? Our bodies don’t all process caffeine in the same way. It also depends on our sleep quality and the dose of caffeine.
What effects can caffeine have on our bodies? How is decaf actually produced? What about the benefits of drinking coffee? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
Why has the Doomsday Clock moved 10 seconds closer to midnight?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What is fika, the uplifting daily ritual from Sweden?
Scandi lifestyle trends have been all the rage for a number of years now. Regular listeners may remember we’ve talked about Hygge and lagom on the show in the past. Well here’s another one from Sweden, and it’s just perfect for winter time.
Fika is basically a short break with friends, family or colleagues sharing a moment together while enjoying a hot beverage. On the face of it, the concept might sound pretty mundane, but it’s a real ritual which people across Sweden will tell you they can’t go without! According to Visit Sweden, it’s believed to come from the old spelling for coffee in Swedish, which was kaffi. Reverse the syllables of kaffi and you get fika.
What does the word fika actually mean? Isn’t it just a fancy coffee break? What’s the best food option to go with fika? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
Why has the Doomsday Clock moved 10 seconds closer to midnight?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/4/2023 • 3 minutes, 45 seconds
Why is it so important that the ozone layer heals?
When it comes to news about the environment, it can feel like everything is doom and gloom. But we recently discussed how some people’s climate anxiety has turned into climate optimism of late, and that’s a trend that could continue this year.
One piece of good news relates to depletion of the ozone layer. You may well have heard of the so-called “hole” in the ozone layer. Well, the name is a little misleading. It actually refers to the ozone layer thinning in areas, rather than an actual hole. This phenomenon was first discovered in 1985 by Joseph Farman, Brian Gardiner and Jonathan Shanklin, all scientists at the British Antarctic Survey.
What’s the purpose of the ozone layer? How quickly will it be healed then? Will it be fully healed everywhere in the world? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
Why has the Doomsday Clock moved 10 seconds closer to midnight?
Am I listening to music too loud?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
Aquamation : what are the advantages of being buried in water?
Until recently when confronted with arranging a funeral there has been a choice between burial or cremation. However, in parts of the US, Canada and soon the UK a third choice can be possible.
Aquamation or as it is known technically “alkaline hydrolysis” is an alternative to traditional burials. The body of the deceased is placed in a pressurised stainless steel vessel and immersed in a mixture of water and alkali for three to four hours and heated to around 150C. During the process all the material is broken down leaving only the inorganic bone minerals which are then processed into powder and returned to the family in an urn.
What is aquamation? What is the advantage of aquamation? What are the disadvantages of aquamation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why has the Doomsday Clock moved 10 seconds closer to midnight?
Am I listening to music too loud?
What is the Ikea effect?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/2/2023 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
[RERUN] What is fluxus?
There are artistic movements which we’ve all heard of at least once, whether it be at school, in a museum or watching a cultural show on TV. But at the same time, it can be difficult to define them, and that’s why we’re here to help.
Today we’re going to shed light on a 1960s anti-art movement known as fluxus. French-American cubist painter Marcel Duchamp invented the term anti-art in the early 20th century, to bring together various concepts that rejected the very idea of art itself. But bear in mind that even anti-art can still be art. Complicated, huh?
Wait a minute; let’s start out with what anti-art is? And how does that relate to the fluxus movement? So what are the main works from the fluxus movement? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Why has the Doomsday Clock moved 10 seconds closer to midnight?
Am I listening to music too loud?
What is the Ikea effect?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/2/2023 • 5 minutes, 6 seconds
Why has the Doomsday Clock moved 10 seconds closer to midnight?
The end is nigh! Well at least it’s getting closer according to experts at the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists. They’re responsible for maintaining the symbolic Doomsday Clock, which represents how close we are to the end of the world.
Midnight on the Doomsday Clock symbolises a potential global catastrophe to come. Each year, the Bulletin non-profit has its say on how close the world is getting to that scenario, measured in minutes or seconds to midnight. And on 24th January 2023, sombre-looking members of the Bulletin’s Science and Security Board unveiled the latest clock setting at a press conference.
How did the idea come about in the first place? How has the clock fluctuated over time? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Am I listening to music too loud?
What is the Ikea effect?
How can I avoid the side effects of antibiotics?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What is Bloody Sunday, the tragic event behind the U2 song?
The Troubles in Northern Ireland may have been over for 25 years now, but the painful memories are still there for many who lived through the period. One of the darkest days was Bloody Sunday, which refers to events that took place in Londonderry on 30th January 1972.
15,000 people, most of whom were Catholics, had taken to the streets of the city for a civil rights march. They were protesting peacefully against a recently adopted law which meant people could be detained or imprisoned without trial. The internment policy was designed to target suspected IRA members in particular. Despite being banned, the march went ahead, policed by British army troops.
What was the fallout? Were the findings any different from the first time around? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Am I listening to music too loud?
What is the Ikea effect?
How can I avoid the side effects of antibiotics?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
Are scented candles and air freshener bad for your health?
Scented candles, air fresheners and even scented cleaning products are all designed to make your home smell nice, clean and fresh. But using them can reduce the air quality of your home and lead to a variety of potential problems.
For many people most of their time is spent indoors and, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), levels of indoor air pollutants are typically more than three times higher than outdoors. Causes range from cooking, heating, scented cleaning products as well as products like candles, diffusers or room sprays which are designed to make our homes smell nice.
What affects the quality of our air inside? What are VCOs? Should I stop using scented candles and air freshener? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Am I listening to music too loud?
What is the Ikea effect?
How can I avoid the side effects of antibiotics?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/31/2023 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
[RERUN] What are Yuccies?
In today’s episode, let’s talk about a term which mixes sociology and lifestyle newspeak. Yuccies is an abbreviation for Young urban creatives.
The term started trending after American journalist David Infante introduced it in an article on Mashable in June 2015. Within weeks, the concept had been covered on many other websites, with the original article being shared over 75,000 times. How did Infante know so much about yuccies? Well he claimed to be one himself.
That sounds a lot like hipsters? What sets yuccies apart? What kind of careers do yuccies tend to pursue? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Am I listening to music too loud?
What is the Ikea effect?
How can I avoid the side effects of antibiotics?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/31/2023 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
Am I listening to music too loud?
Whether it’s in the street, on public transport or at home, almost all of us use headphones or earphones to listen to music. Now music might bring us joy and a whole lot of other emotions, but when it’s too loud, it can also represent a risk for hearing health.
And it’s not just the case with personal listening devices; the same is also true when going to entertainment venues like nightclubs, bars, music concert arenas and sports stadia. The danger comes when the sound level gets too high, we’re exposed to it for too long, or worse, both. Both our ears and brains are involved in processing sound. The outer ear captures soundwaves and transmits the vibrations to the cochlea, a snail-shaped organ located in the inner air which contains fluid.
What are healthy listening levels then? Are there any warning signs to look out for? What should I look out for? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Why does walking through doorways make us forget things?
Will ChatGPT replace Google?
What is the loverboy method Andrew Tate is accused of using?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/30/2023 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is the Ikea effect?
You’re no doubt familiar with IKEA as the king of flatpack furniture. But you may not be aware that the Swedish company’s name is also associated with a cognitive bias. It’s all to do with how we assign greater value to objects when we make or assemble them ourselves. Now that might seem counterintuitive but it’s become an established marketing tactic over the years.
Studies by American researchers Michael Norton, Daniel Mochon, and Dan Ariely backed it up with evidence. When releasing their findings, they coined the term “Ikea effect” to describe the bias. They ran a series of tests to find out if their belief in the Ikea effect was well-founded. One part saw test subjects divided into two groups. The first group was tasked with assembling Ikea furniture items, while the other group simply examined the same items, only they’d been pre-built for them.
What was their evidence? Why on earth would we want to pay more for doing more work ourselves? Does the IKEA effect come into play in other areas of life? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Why does walking through doorways make us forget things?
Will ChatGPT replace Google?
What is the loverboy method Andrew Tate is accused of using?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/29/2023 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
[RERUN] What is ableism?
Social science research is becoming more and more fruitful. As a result, an almost endless list of terms are emerging, like 'white privilege' or 'ageism’, which we have already covered in past episodes of Do You Really Know? These studies often share the same objective and that is to shine a light on social phenomena we tend to dismiss, calling out persisting discrimination.
The words 'ableism' and 'disablism' appeared in public debate to denounce systemic oppression against people with disabilities. Although ableism and disablism both describe discrimination based on disability, the emphasis for each of these terms is slightly different. Disablism implies discrimination against disabled people. Meanwhile, ableism is discrimination in favour of non-disabled people by seeing them as the norm to the extent that anyone else is forgotten.
What are some examples of ableism? Isn’t there a danger of manipulation? How can we work against it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Why does walking through doorways make us forget things?
Will ChatGPT replace Google?
What is the loverboy method Andrew Tate is accused of using?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/29/2023 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
How can I avoid the side effects of antibiotics?
Antibiotics are critical to modern medicine, and have saved millions of lives since first being introduced in the mid-20th century. However, there are drawbacks to prescribing antibiotics when they’re not actually required.
Of course there’s the issue of antibiotic resistance, which is seen as a major threat to human health. And there are also unwanted side effects of antibiotic use to take into account. After all, they don’t only target the bacteria that are making us sick. They also kill harmless bacteria in the gut which actually keep us healthy. What’s more, according to MedicalXpress.com, “this disruption to gut microbiome composition can last for up to two years after antibiotic treatment.” Other side effects include diarrhea and bloating.
Is there anything we can do to protect our gut? Can antibiotics also lead to yeast infections? Do I have to go right to the end of my course of antibiotics? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Why does walking through doorways make us forget things?
Will ChatGPT replace Google?
What is the loverboy method Andrew Tate is accused of using?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/28/2023 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
Why does walking through doorways make us forget things?
Have you ever walked into your living room, kitchen or bedroom and completely forgotten what you went there for? It can be pretty annoying, and a little unsettling too. You might start wondering if you’ve got memory problems.
This mental block phenomenon actually has a name: the doorway effect. It happens to most people from time to time. Through a series of studies run by Gabriel Radvansky and his colleagues at the University of Notre Dame in the USA, the doorway effect has been proved scientifically. The findings were published in the Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology in 2011.
Has it been studied by researchers? So what’s actually going on in the brain at that specific moment? Should I be worried if it happens to me? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Will ChatGPT replace Google?
What is the loverboy method Andrew Tate is accused of using?
Should I buy an electric car?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/27/2023 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
Is your employer tracking you while you work from home?
One of the consequences of the pandemic has been the increased interest and possibility for people to work from home. For many it is a great option, but increasingly employers are worried about time theft. Time theft is a catch all term for employees being paid for being at work when they were not really working.
It could be because of things like taking longer breaks than scheduled; logging off early; or using work time to do personal tasks. This has all been illustrated rather well with the case of Karlee Besse who worked remotely as an accountant. But she was fired and sued her company for unfair dismissal and was awarded compensation.
What is time theft? What is TimeCamp? What is the problem with ‘bossware’ ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Will ChatGPT replace Google?
What is the loverboy method Andrew Tate is accused of using?
Should I buy an electric car?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
[RERUN] What is benevolent sexism?
Discussions of sexism are commonplace in public discourse. And despite government policies aimed to ensure equality between women and men, the problem persists. Even if in your immediate environment, sexism seems to be gone for good, you may be thinking of sexism in its classical sense.
Experts say that more discreet forms remain, and benevolent sexism is one of them. Benevolent sexism is part of another theory presented by Peter Glick and Susan Fiske in 1996. The two scholars coined the term ambivalent sexism, defined as the coexistence of hostile sexism and benevolent sexism toward women. Within that concept, hostile sexism refers to explicitly negative attitudes to individuals who violate traditional gender roles.
Can a form of prejudice really be benevolent? What kind of remarks, for example? But something called benevolent can’t be too harmful, can it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Will ChatGPT replace Google?
What is the loverboy method Andrew Tate is accused of using?
Should I buy an electric car?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/26/2023 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
Will ChatGPT replace Google?
The ChatGPT AI chatbot has grabbed a lot of attention since it was released in December 2022. GPT stands for generative Pre-trained transformer, and the chatbot is based on one of the most advanced AI language models currently available.
Those who’ve tested it have been impressed at how it generates complex, human-like responses to many different kinds of questions. It’s also been used to write essays and scripts for a TV sitcom. It’s led to speculation that AI will soon revolutionise industries, and could even replace Google, which has an 84% search engine market share according to Statista.
Why would people stop using Google to browse the internet? Are there any drawbacks? Is ChatGPT meant to be used as a search engine? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Are baths or showers better for our health?
Can this budgeting method help us save better?
Is microwaving food bad for you?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
What is the loverboy method Andrew Tate is accused of using?
Online influencer and self-confessed misogynist Andrew Tate has now been in prison for over a month, following his arrest in late December on human trafficking charges. The Romanian police force who arrested him released a statement saying Tate, along with his brother and two other suspects, used “physical violence and mental coercion” to force victims to perform pornography.
The statement went into further detail, saying the group recruited new victims by “misrepresenting their intention to enter into a marriage/cohabitation relationship and the existence of genuine feelings of love”. This tactic is also known as the loverboy method. Charges haven’t actually been brought against him and his brother yet, but they did appeal against their detention in early January, a bid which was unsuccessful.
Does Tate deny the charges? Why is it called the loverboy method? Isn’t it easy to detect? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Are baths or showers better for our health?
Can this budgeting method help us save better?
Is microwaving food bad for you?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/25/2023 • 4 minutes, 45 seconds
Should I buy an electric car?
Electric cars feel like a great choice for the environment but are they a great choice for you? Here are some tips and advice to help you decide. Despite the cost of electricity going up recently electric cars are still less expensive to run than petrol or diesel equivalents.
When it comes to charging your car you will get the best price by charging at home on off-peak hours. Using a public charger can be more expensive but it should still work out cheaper than filling up with petrol. Also, electric cars are usually less expensive to have serviced as they have fewer moving parts to repair or replace.
What are the advantages of an electric car? Are they really better for the planet? Are they better for us? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Are baths or showers better for our health?
Can this budgeting method help us save better?
Is microwaving food bad for you?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
[RERUN] What is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?
According to the World Health Organisation, harmful use of alcohol accounts for 3 million deaths each year. Indeed, it’s the third leading cause of preventable death, and causes a large burden for societies across the world.
Of course regular alcohol consumption doesn’t always kill, but it can lead to other health problems, including neurological disorders. Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is one such example. It’s the combination of Wernicke encephalopathy and Korsakoff Syndrome. Both are linked to vitamin B1 deficiency. Alcohol has a direct toxic effect on the brain, which can lead to a lack of certain substances, such as vitamin B1, which is also known as thiamine.
What are the symptoms of this syndrome? How does it develop? Are there any forms of treatment? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Are baths or showers better for our health?
Can this budgeting method help us save better?
Is microwaving food bad for you?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/24/2023 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
Are baths or showers better for our health?
When it comes to getting clean, some people prefer chilling in the bath for a good half an hour or more, while others like how quick and practical it is having a shower. Let’s consider the two choices from a health perspective.
It's pretty common knowledge that taking a bath isn't very eco-friendly, in terms of water consumption. Of course there are variables at play here when comparing the two. When taking a bath, you only really need to fill around a third of the tub up, so your torso is submerged when you lie down. But some people will fill it higher, which obviously uses more water. When taking a shower, it depends how long you keep it running for and how powerful the flow rate is.
What does taking a bath do to our bodies? What about its impact on the cardiovascular system? Are there any points of comparison where taking a shower is better? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Should I walk 10000 steps a day?
What is a vertiport?
What is productivity paranoia?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/23/2023 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
Can this budgeting method help us save better?
Data published by YouGov in August 2022 showed that as of the previous month, Britons were using a whopping £3.5bn worth of overdrafted funds from their bank accounts. Each month, between 25% and 30% of people dip into their overdrafts, generally just for a few days leading up to payday.
It’s hardly surprising with the ongoing cost of living crisis and energy bills rising rapidly. If you’re one of those people who struggles to save, maybe you could use a few tips to help budget better. One popular method is the 50 - 30 - 20 rule, which was introduced by American senator Elizabeth Warren in a book entitled All Your Worth: The Ultimate Lifetime Money Plan. It splits your income into three categories to help manage it better.
What do the numbers mean then? How can I apply the rule? What if my needs add up to more than 50% of my income? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Should I walk 10000 steps a day?
What is a vertiport?
What is productivity paranoia?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
[RERUN] What is climate change famine?
The COP26 summit, which took place earlier this month, revealed that concerns related to climate change are now more pressing than ever. In June 2021, Madagascar became the first country in the world officially affected by a climate change famine that swept over the south of the island as a result of global warming.
What makes it a particularly affected area is that 9 out of 10 people there live below the poverty line. According to the UN, 30,000 Malagasy are suffering from famine and 1.3 million are victims of acute malnutrition. The World Food Program reported that the figure includes 500,000 children, with over a fifth of those children affected by a severe form.
How did this climate change famine come about? What do Madagascar's inhabitants eat then? Is there a chance of similar famines breaking out in other countries? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is synthetic fuel?
What is a frozen conflict?
What are warming stripes?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/22/2023 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
Is microwaving food bad for you?
It’s been labelled a “marvel of engineering” and a “miracle of convenience” by Harvard Health Publishing. Data published by Statista in July 2022 showed that in 2018, 93% of UK households owned a microwave, a figure which had risen from 67% when the survey started back in 1994.
But still some doubts persist about whether microwaving food is bad for your health. Some people even say they cause cancer. Rest assured they don’t. But there are a range of other complaints and concerns over food quality and health. So, are they simply urban myths or based on frightening reality? Let’s investigate!
How do microwaves work? What about all the radiation? Doesn’t microwaving food reduce nutrient value? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Should I walk 10000 steps a day?
What is a vertiport?
What is productivity paranoia?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/21/2023 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
What is climate optimism?
We’ve talked about eco-anxiety before on Do You Really Know, and it’s real. A survey published in the Lancet in December 2021 found that 75% of young people thought the future was frightening.
But others are preaching a more positive outlook, with cautious climate optimism looking set to be a trend in 2023. While our fears around the climate crisis are justified and useful, if they paralyse us out of doing anything, those feelings of hopelessness are inevitable. Psychologists call it “learned helplessness”.
What cause is there for optimism? What are the arguments against climate optimism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Should I walk 10000 steps a day?
What is a vertiport?
What is productivity paranoia?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/20/2023 • 5 minutes, 7 seconds
Should I walk 10000 steps a day?
Most of us are familiar with the idea that you need to take 10 thousand steps per day to stay healthy but getting to this magic number is not that easy. The 10,000-step target first became popular in Japan in the 1960s.
A clockmaker capitalising on people's new interest in fitness following the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games made a pedometer with a name that, when written in Japanese characters, resembled a walking man and coincidentally translated as “10,000-steps metre.” A study of over 78,000 people in the UK between 2013 and 2015 using wearable trackers was published in the journals JAMA Internal Medicine and JAMA Neurology.
Where did we get the number 10 thousand from? Does that mean that we do not need to take 10 steps? So how many steps should I be aiming for per day? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Are my smart devices spying on me?
What is synthetic fuel?
What is a frozen conflict?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
[RERUN] What is an anocracy?
Let’s think back to January 6th 2021, when the U.S. Capitol was invaded by radical pro-Trump activists. Of course since then, Donald Trump has left the White House. But, with hindsight, how should we remember his mandate and this event in particular?
Political scientist Baraba F. Walter recently looked into the US's current instability and went as far as describing it as an anocracy. That’s a term for a government that is neither fully democratic, nor fully autocratic. It was first coined in 1946 by Austrian philosopher Martin Buber and then translated into English in the 1950s. Barbara Walter is a CIA advisor and professor at the University of San Diego in California. Throughout her career, she has studied conflicts in many countries across the world, such as Lebanon, Syria, Sri Lanka, and Nicaragua, to name just a few.
Where does the word anocracy come from? Why would she believe that? And how can an anocracy plunge into civil war? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Are my smart devices spying on me?
What is synthetic fuel?
What is a frozen conflict?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/19/2023 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
What is a vertiport?
All week long, we’re looking into 10 new terms and concepts that are certain to be on everyone’s lips in 2023! Flying vehicles have long been imagined as part of the not-too-distant future, as well as a making regular appearances in TV and film works of fiction. Just think of the Jetsons or Harry Potter for example. And the attraction is understandable.
Imagine you could avoid all road congestion by travelling by air, even over a short distance. Well, even if we’re not quite there yet, we may be getting closer, due to the emergence of electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, known as EVTOLs for short. A lot of manufacturers are getting on board. Hyundai has said it expects the air mobility market to be worth close to $1.5tn within the next 20 years.
Where does the name come from? Are there any vertiports already open? What are the challenges? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Are my smart devices spying on me?
What is synthetic fuel?
What is a frozen conflict?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 45 seconds
What is productivity paranoia?
All week long, we’re looking into 10 new terms and concepts that are certain to be on everyone’s lips in 2023! Covid-19 restrictions changed work practices radically; a large proportion of the workforce have worked remotely for nearly three years now.
That’s the case even in post-pandemic working structures, with many sectors favouring a hybrid model rather than a full-time return to the office. We now have a generation of workers who often have never met their colleagues in person. But still the fear persists among a lot of managers that their teams aren’t as productive working from home.
What do employees think? So what’s the problem then? What can be done to fix productivity paranoia? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Are my smart devices spying on me?
What is synthetic fuel?
What is a frozen conflict?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/18/2023 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
Are my smart devices spying on me?
Smart devices can be very handy, but increasingly people are worried about exactly how smart they are, what they know and what they are doing with our data especially after a rogue Roomba ended up sharing embarrassing photos of one young woman on the toilet.
Smart devices are electronic devices or gadgets that have the ability to interact, connect and share information with other smart devices. It is often associated with the term the ‘internet of things’. The Internet of things refers to a network of devices that gather data and share information with each other through the internet. This includes things like smartphones, fitness trackers, smart tvs, smart speakers and much more.
What are smart devices? What are the advantages of smart devices? How can I protect my data from misuse? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is synthetic fuel?
What is a frozen conflict?
What are warming stripes?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/17/2023 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
[RERUN] What is Black Lives Matter?
January 16th is Martin Luther King Day. In the United States, this is a federal holiday in the United States marking the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. King was a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement, which protested racial discrimination in federal and state law. The fight against racial discrimination is still essential today. Listen to our rerun episode about the Black Lives Matter movement!
The Black Lives Matter movement originated in the U.S., following another tragedy. In 2012, black teenager Trayvon Martin was shot and killed by security agent George Zimmermann. When Zimmermann was acquitted the following year, three female activists created the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter on Twitter as a show of outrage at the verdict. It caught on, and gradually developed into a much wider movement, especially after the deaths of two more African-American men: Michael Brown and Eric Garner.
Do black people really die more than others in the United States? Isn’t that just an attempt to dismiss the Black Lives Matter struggle? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is synthetic fuel?
What is a frozen conflict?
What are warming stripes?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/17/2023 • 5 minutes, 7 seconds
What is synthetic fuel?
All week long, we’re looking into 10 new terms and concepts that are certain to be on everyone’s lips in 2023! For a number of years now, we’ve been hearing that the future of transport is electric, in particular due to the impact of fossil fuels on global warming.
But there are a number of drawbacks, including cost, battery life, battery recycling, charging time which mean some people are reluctant to get on board. There are also fears that the switch to electric vehicles won’t be quick enough to meet environmental objectives. Some experts believe that the fastest way to reduce CO2 emissions from transport is to use fuels synthesised from organic materials that are carbon-neutral and can power existing vehicles.
How are synthetic fuels made? Why are they a good alternative to fossil fuels? Will it be available to the general public? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Why do we consider Friday 13th unlucky?
Why has my sense of smell changed because of Covid?
What are nepo babies?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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1/16/2023 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
What is a frozen conflict?
All week long, we’re looking into 10 new terms and concepts that are certain to be on everyone’s lips in 2023! It’s nearly 11 months since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine, and the war has reached somewhat of a stalemate. Many observers expected a swift Russian victory, no doubt including Vladimir Putin himself, but Ukrainian resistance proved fierce.
Over the summer, Ukraine launched a counter-offensive and succeeded in taking back large parts of Russian-occupied territory. As we head into 2023, there’s a distinct possibility of the war becoming a drawn-out affair, even turning into a frozen conflict. That’s a situation where fighting has ceased, but there’s no clear resolution in the form of a peace treaty or political agreement. Hostilities could resume at any moment and the climate is unstable.
Why could the Russia - Ukraine war become a frozen conflict? Why would that be in Russia’s interests? Are there frozen conflicts in other parts of the world too? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Why do we consider Friday 13th unlucky?
Why has my sense of smell changed because of Covid?
What are nepo babies?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/15/2023 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
[RERUN] What is Blue Monday?
Sorry to end the week with bad news but tomorrow, January 16th, is Blue Monday, often cited as the most depressing day of the year. Blue Monday has existed since 2005, and is based on an equation which takes into account various factors. However, its detractors criticise the idea as pseudoscience and say it is driven by money.
Since the first Blue Monday equation was devised by psychologist Cliff Arnall, there have been a few different variants, but there are common elements to each. Of course you’ve got the winter weather, which explains why Blue Monday isn’t a phenomenon in the southern Hemisphere, where January is a summer month. Blue Monday is also not well known in the United States, as it usually clashes with Martin Luther King Day.
Why does Blue Monday occur in January? Black Friday, Super Saturday, Blue Monday - why do I get the feeling this is just another marketing thing? Is there any scientific evidence backing Blue Monday ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the internet of senses?
What is goblin mode?
What should I eat before going to bed?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK
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1/15/2023 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
What are warming stripes?
If you’ve been to a climate demonstration in recent times, you may have noticed placards with a series of blue and red coloured stripes. Kind of like a barcode but in colour, with the shades varying from very light to very dark. You may have even seen them at political or sporting events, in the media, or on the cover of Greta Thunberg’s The Climate Book.
This set of graphics are known as warming stripes, and they’re not as random as they might first seem. Indeed, the coloured stripes have become a go-to symbol for many climate activists, given that they feature no letters and no numbers, meaning anyone anywhere in the world can understand their meaning. Warming stripes were invented by Ed Hawkins in 2018. The British climatologist is a respected figure, having contributed to several IPCC reports as an author.
What is the meaning? Why are they used on social media? How can such a simple graphic get across the complexity of climate change? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Why do we consider Friday 13th unlucky?
Why has my sense of smell changed because of Covid?
What are nepo babies?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/14/2023 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
Why do we consider Friday 13th unlucky?
Today is Friday 13th, a day often seen as unlucky in Western superstition. Indeed, the tradition has become so ingrained that there’s even an associated phobia. It’s called, wait for it, paraskevidekatriaphobia!
Now, it might seem Friday 13th doesn’t come around very often, but most years actually have two and sometimes even three, depending on the calendar. 2022 was an anomaly with it occurring just once. This year sees two Friday 13ths, the first today in January and the second to come in October. Interestingly, in Italy Friday 17th is actually seen as a more unlucky day, while in Spain and Greece it’s Tuesday 13th.
Where does the superstition come from? There are a lot of references to Friday 13th in popular culture, aren’t there? Is it the same in every culture? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Why has my sense of smell changed because of Covid?
What are nepo babies?
What is menstrual leave?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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1/13/2023 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
Why has my sense of smell changed because of Covid?
One of the many symptoms of Covid 19 was a loss of the sense of smell It is estimated that about two-thirds of patients experience loss of smell during acute COVID-19 and around half of these will subsequently develop parosmia.
Now researchers have been investigating what might cause this loss of smell and how to treat it. Loss of smell is known as anosmia. Parosmia is not a loss of smell but a smell disorder where odours are distorted and often smell unpleasant. This can affect food, toiletries or environmental smells. It can last weeks, months or even years and can be very upsetting.
What is parosmia? Why does this happen? How can it be cured? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are nepo babies?
What is menstrual leave?
Can a weighted blanket help you get a better night’s sleep?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
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1/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
[RERUN] What is the glass ceiling?
When talking about diversity and inclusion, the glass ceiling refers to an invisible barrier stopping those in minorities from obtaining upper-level workforce opportunities.
The metaphor is most often used when talking about women. They may find their careers stagnating, unable to progress beyond a middle-management role, through no fault of their own. When it comes to senior positions, they are overlooked in favour of men, despite often having equal or better credentials.
Where does the expression come from? Where is the glass ceiling most noticeable? How has the situation evolved since the term “glass ceiling” was invented? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are nepo babies?
What is menstrual leave?
Can a weighted blanket help you get a better night’s sleep?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/12/2023 • 4 minutes, 1 second
What are nepo babies?
All week long, we’re looking into 10 new terms and concepts that are certain to be on everyone’s lips in 2023! In December 2022, New York magazine ran a cover which got a lot of attention. It featured the heads of a number of Hollywood celebs like Lily-Rose Depp, Ben Platt, Dakota Johnson and Zoe Kravitz, all edited onto babies’ bodies.
In the centre of the page the bright pink headline read: “She Has Her Mother’s Eyes. And Agent.” The article inside labelled 2022 the “Year of the Nepo Baby”. What those celeb babies all have in common is that they’re the children of famous, successful parents. That’s where the “nepo” part comes from, as in nepotism. Right from the get go, these kids had an advantage or arguably a sure road to success.
Isn’t that obvious? That’s been the case forever, hasn’t it? What do nepo babies themselves have to say on the issue? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Can a weighted blanket help you get a better night’s sleep?
What is the internet of senses?
What is goblin mode?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/11/2023 • 5 minutes, 3 seconds
What is menstrual leave?
All week long, we’re looking into 10 new terms and concepts that are certain to be on everyone’s lips in 2023! Despite the fact that we’re in 2023, there’s still a certain squeamishness when it comes to discussions about menstruation, including in the workplace.
But that might be about to change in Europe, due to a measure that was recently approved by the lower house of Spain’s parliament... In mid-December 2022, Spanish MPs voted to adopt a new bill creating menstrual leave for women suffering from period pain. That’s right, 3-5 days off work per month paid by the state. And while it’s a first in Europe, such a measure has already existed for decades in other parts of the world.
Why do women need time off work during their periods? Which other countries in the world have a menstrual leave policy? Why is menstrual leave a controversial measure? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Can a weighted blanket help you get a better night’s sleep?
What is the internet of senses?
What is goblin mode?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/11/2023 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
Can a weighted blanket help you get a better night’s sleep?
A comfy mattress, be it firm or soft, and a good pillow are all essential for a good night’s sleep but increasingly people are also buying weighted blankets to help them relax. A weighted blanket is exactly what it sounds like, a blanket that is heavier than your usual duvet.
They are normally filled with either plastic pellets or glass beads and their extra weight is designed to provide a light pressure that has a therapeutic effect, like being held, which for some, leads to a sense of calm, reduced anxiety and better sleep. Sensory integration theory suggests that deep pressure can have a calming effect on the nervous system which can help with a host of anxiety issues, troubled sleep, insomnia, restless leg syndrome and can even help calm people with an autism spectrum disorder.
What is a weighted blanket and how does it work? What are the benefits of a weighted blanket? Are there any concerns about weighted blankets? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the internet of senses?
What is goblin mode?
What should I eat before going to bed?
A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
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1/10/2023 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
[RERUN] What is a Tiny House?
You may have spotted one in a park, at the edge of the woods, or in a parking lot in the middle of the countryside. Tiny houses on wheels or up on a trailer have been springing up like mushrooms for a number of years. The tiny-house trend is a social and architectural movement that demonstrates a desire to return to simplicity by downsizing living spaces.
The tiny-house revolution started in the United States in the 1970s. The idea gained momentum thanks to English-born architect Sarah Susanka, the originator of the “Not So Big” residential architecture philosophy. Further exponential growth of their popularity can be linked to a number of events, including hurricane Katrina that swept over the United States and prompted the need for fast mass housing construction.
Where does this idea come from? But what are the perks of going tiny? How do you move into a Tiny House? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the internet of senses?
What is goblin mode?
What should I eat before going to bed?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK
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1/10/2023 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
What is the internet of senses?
All week long we're looking at the 10 words that will be on everyone's lips in 2023. If, like us, you're a fan of Netflix series Black Mirror, you’ll remember that several episodes are set in a near future where technology allows humans to have fully immersive experiences. Where the sensations felt in the virtual world are identical to those in the real world.
Of course Black Mirror is sci-fi, but we may not be that far away from something similar being possible in the real world. Tech giants like Ericsson, Apple and Tesla are taking a keen interest in sensory technologies and filing for patent after patent in the area. According to Ericsson, new technologies will allow us to create an “internet of senses” by 2025. The Swedish telecoms company introduced the term “internet of senses” for the first time in 2019.
Are we talking about the five senses? Are there other internet of senses precursor projects? Won’t it be dangerous not being able to distinguish between the virtual and real worlds? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Why has far-right terrorism increased so much?
How can I save money when using electrical appliances?
Why do we get the post-sex blues?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with Upday UK.
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1/9/2023 • 4 minutes, 59 seconds
What is goblin mode?
All week long we're looking at the 10 words that will be on everyone's lips in 2023. Every year, linguists at Oxford University choose a Word of the Year and in 2022, they allowed the public to vote on the winner for the first time.
The 340,000 English speakers who voted were given three choices: metaverse, the #IStandWith hashtag and, drumroll please, the eventual runaway winner…Goblin Mode. The term secured an impressive 93% of votes. It might seem anecdotal and light-hearted, but you’re going to hear it a lot more often in 2023 as it’s definitely an expression that speaks to the times. Basically, it means shamelessly living as one wants, or ‘slobbing out’ if you like.
What’s the official definition? Is it a brand new expression? So is going goblin mode a good thing then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Why has far-right terrorism increased so much?
How can I save money when using electrical appliances?
Why do we get the post-sex blues?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with Upday UK.
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1/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Russian Oil Embargo?
A European Union embargo against maritime shipments of crude oil from Russia went into effect on the 5th of December 2022, along with a price cap agreed to by the Group of Seven leading industrialized economies and Australia. Listen to our rerun episode about the Russian Oil Embargo.
The EU unanimously took this decisive measure on the night of 30th May 2022, a little over 3 months since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine. Between now and the end of the year, the Union’s 27 member states will cut imports of Russian oil by 90%. Russia is one of the three biggest oil producers in the world, after Saudi Arabia and the United States. The embargo concerns not only crude oil, but also refined fuels like diesel. The agreement marks the sixth package of sanctions against Russia to come from Brussels, following previous measures.
Why take such a measure? Mais quid du tiers du pétrole restant ? What else is in the sanctions package? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Why has far-right terrorism increased so much?
How can I save money when using electrical appliances?
Why do we get the post-sex blues?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with Upday UK.
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1/8/2023 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What should I eat before going to bed?
No doubt you’ve realised that some types of food have a boosting effect, like eggs, oats and avocado for example. That’s because they contain tyrosine, an amino acid which is a precursor to dopamine, making them an ideal breakfast option. At the other end of the scale, some foods are better suited for preparing our bodies to go to sleep, by bringing on certain chemical reactions.
In terms of what not to do, it’s most important not to eat anything too rich, not to eat meals that are too large, and not to eat too close to bedtime. You should aim to e nd dinner at least two hours before going to bed. That’s to limit any potential nighttime discomfort from indigestion or heartburn. On top of that, our body temperature needs to drop when we go to sleep, but digestion does the exact opposite.
So what are the better options available to us then? Why is the role of amino acids so important? What about simply skipping dinner; does that work? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to more episodes, click here:
Why has far-right terrorism increased so much?
How can I save money when using electrical appliances?
Why do we get the post-sex blues?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with Upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/7/2023 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
Why has far-right terrorism increased so much?
In early December 2022, German authorities carried out a sting operation on the neo-Nazi Reichsburger group that was plotting to overthrow the country’s government through a coup. It was one of Germany’s biggest ever counterterror operations, seeing 3000 police officers make 300 raids across 11 regions of the country, and led to a total of 25 arrests.
The so-called Citizens of the Reich are just one example of a dangerous threat that is becoming more and more widespread in the West: that of violent far-right terrorism. 2019 saw the Christchurch mosque attack in New Zealand, which killed 51 people, and a school shooting targeting the majority Latino community of El Paso, Texas. The following year, Germany saw the Hanau shisha bar shootings, and the murder of migrant-friendly MP Walter Lubcke.
What are the aims of right-wing extremists? How has right-wing terrorism changed in recent years? Who tends to radicalise? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I save money when using electrical appliances?
Why do we get the post-sex blues?
What can be done about snoring?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with Upday UK
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1/6/2023 • 4 minutes, 45 seconds
How can I save money when using electrical appliances?
You might be surprised to learn that how we use our electric devices can make real changes to our energy consumption and our bills. So here are some simple tips to help you change your habits and save on your energy bills.
Let’s start with leaving appliances on standby. Many appliances use energy even when they are on standby. Chargers still draw power even if the device is not connected, media players, Phones with displays that show when not in active use, like cordless phones and smart home appliances like refrigerators, washer and dryers that have always-on displays and many more. This energy consumption is often referred to as standby but also other names like phantom load, shadow loads, idle current or even vampire power.
What's the easiest way to save money on electricity? What if I need to leave things on standby? How can I save money by changing the way I use appliances? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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Why do we get the post-sex blues?
What can be done about snoring?
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with Upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/5/2023 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
[RERUN] What is OCD?
OCD stands for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Contrary to popular opinion, we’re not just talking about irritating little quirks. The condition profoundly affects the patient's mind, behaviour, and emotions.
It all starts in the brain. Patients get intrusive thoughts that become obsessive over time. The more you hold on to these thoughts, the more anxiety you experience. OCD patients may even believe that if they have a thought, such as getting into a car accident or catching a serious disease, it means the event will happen. Unless they do something to prevent it – and that’s where compulsions start kicking in.
So how does it develop? And how long can it last? I get the idea. Is it possible to stop the spiral? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the lastest episodes, click here:
Why do we get the post-sex blues?
What can be done about snoring?
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with Upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/5/2023 • 3 minutes, 59 seconds
Why do we get the post-sex blues?
If you’ve ever felt strangely sad after having sex, you may have wondered what on earth was wrong with you. After all, we’re supposed to lie around in a haze or cuddle up to our partner in a state of post-orgasmic bliss, every single time. At least that’s what popular culture would have us believe.
But rest assured, if that’s not the case for you, you’re not alone. Indeed, a lot of people have experienced what’s called post-coital dysphoria, also known as the post-sex blues. It refers to the negative emotions people feel after having sex. And it’s more common that you might think. A study on the condition was published in the Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy in 2018. It was based on a questionnaire that 1208 men took, of which 41% said they had had the post-sex blues at least once in their lives.
What kind of feelings are we talking about? Could it be psychological too? What’s the best way to beat the blues then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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How can I return unwanted gifts?
Could the deep work technique help me concentrate better at work?
What can I do to relieve heartburn?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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1/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
What can be done about snoring?
According to the British Snoring and Sleep Apnea Association, 41% of the UK population snore, which means there are approximately 15 million snorers in the country. That in turn means 30 million people are affected by snoring, given that the noises can prove disturbing to a partner or family member’s sleep.
Of course when we breathe, oxygen passes through our nose, then behind the palate to reach the pharynx and trachea. When we sleep, these muscles tend to collapse, which can hamper air flow. Our organs start vibrating and the noise spreads in the nasal cavities. That’s where snoring comes from.
Is it a cause for concern? So what about the rest of us snorers who don’t suffer from sleep apnea? What if the snoring is down to my sleeping position? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I return unwanted gifts?
Could the deep work technique help me concentrate better at work?
What can I do to relieve heartburn?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/4/2023 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?
For many new year’s is a great time to take a look at your life and make some changes. Unfortunately, According to the time management firm FranklinCovey, one third of resolutions fail before the end of January.
There are three main reasons resolutions fail. Firstly, resolutions made because of what you think you ‘ought’ to do, are not likely to succeed. Next, being too vague and finally not having a realistic plan of how you intend to achieve your goal are all signs that your resolution will probably not make it. Your resolutions should be SMART. By that, I mean specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. This acronym is a great way to think about your resolutions and experts agree.
Why do so many resolutions fail? How do you make successful resolutions? How do I know when I'm setting unrealistic goals for myself? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I return unwanted gifts?
Could the deep work technique help me concentrate better at work?
What can I do to relieve heartburn?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
[RERUN] What is Veganuary?
Here we are just a few days into 2023! Have you made, or perhaps already broken, any New Year’s resolutions? Well, it’s not too late to get involved. There are plenty of good initiatives out there and here’s one which is designed to help you stick to a resolution for a full month, or at least try something new.
The Veganuary challenge is pretty easy to understand. It’s a contraction of the words “vegan” and “January”, the idea being to go vegan for a month, cutting out all animal origin food from your diet. According to organisers, over 580,000 people from 209 countries across the world registered to take part last year, and that figure is expected to increase again in 2023.
How long has the Veganuary movement been around? How can I join in? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I celebrate New Year’s at home and still have fun?
Should we be worried about the Lensa AI avatar app?
How does the 3-30-300 rule affect my mental health?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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1/3/2023 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What happens to our bodies when we do Dry January?
You’re most likely familiar with the concept of Dry January, which started out in the UK in 2013 and has since become hugely popular. It involves not consuming a single drop of alcohol for the whole month of January. In 2022, record participation numbers were recorded, with over 130,000 people signing up with Alcohol Change to take part.
On average, British people drink 9.8 litres of pure alcohol per year, according to figures released by the OECD in 2021. Right from the first few hours of cutting out alcohol, the body starts its detox process. You may get noticeable withdrawal symptoms, depending on how dependent your body is on alcohol. If you’re a moderate drinker, you may have a little trouble getting to sleep. If you drink more often, you might get headaches or break into a sweat. It’s often said that the first three days are the hardest.
Is there really an impact in such a short space of time? What about from week two onwards? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I celebrate New Year’s at home and still have fun?
Should we be worried about the Lensa AI avatar app?
How does the 3-30-300 rule affect my mental health?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/2/2023 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
How can I stop smoking?
We all know that the effects of tobacco on the human body are devastating. The World Health Organisation says that it kills more than 8 million people each year, making it one of the biggest public health threats the world has ever seen.
It’s hardly surprising when you consider that cigarettes contain over 4,000 chemical substances, and at least 50 of them are carcinogens, meaning they are linked to an increased risk of cancer. Many people will attempt to quit smoking as part of their New year’s resolutions, and we’re here to provide some information on the best ways to do so. It seems so, at least according to the most recent large-scale study on the subject which was published by Jama Network Open in October 2022.
If I give up, will my body ever fully recover? What different methods are out there? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I celebrate New Year’s at home and still have fun?
Should we be worried about the Lensa AI avatar app?
How does the 3-30-300 rule affect my mental health?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/1/2023 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
Why has astrology come back into fashion?
Have you noticed more of your friends talking about their star signs of late? Maybe they try to guess the sign of people they meet, or come out with unexpected references to “Mercury in retrograde” or “Saturn return” over dinner. Maybe you’re into it yourself; and you have an app which sends you horoscope notifications all day long.
It wasn’t so long ago that most people would just read horoscopes in the paper for a laugh, but these days astrology seems to be all the rage. Dedicated webpages are getting more and more traffic, and there are even astrology based dating apps, like Ilios and Stars Align. Analysing human behaviour according to star and planet positions has existed for millenia across different civilisations, like the Mayas for example.
Are we saying astrology has never been this popular before? What’s caused the resurgence then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I celebrate New Year’s at home and still have fun?
Should we be worried about the Lensa AI avatar app?
How does the 3-30-300 rule affect my mental health?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/31/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
How is toilet paper helping to reduce suicide in Japan?
"Dear you, spending painful days pretending to be okay for someone else. You don't need to tell us everything... but how about just a little of it?" Imagine you’re in the bathroom at uni and you notice a message like that printed on the toilet roll. Pretty weird right?!
Well that’s exactly the situation students in the Yamanashi region of Japan found themselves in, when authorities rolled out their new suicide prevention initiative. That’s one example of the messages that were thought out by mental health specialists, and the toilet rolls also feature the number of a suicide prevention helpline and soothing images, like a cat playing with a ball or a young girl underneath an umbrella.
Why are they looking to help young people specifically? Are things worse in Japan than elsewhere in the world? What's the attitude towards mental health in Japan? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I celebrate New Year’s at home and still have fun?
Should we be worried about the Lensa AI avatar app?
How does the 3-30-300 rule affect my mental health?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
[10 WORDS THAT MADE 2022] Why were the queen’s bees told of her death?
Do You Really Know, Bababam's daily podcast, helps you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. This week, we're looking back at 10 words and phrases that have been on everyone's lips in 2022. From the Uber Files leak to "shrinkflation" in stores or "quiet quitting" at work, refresh your memory on some of the events and phenomena that best sum up the year gone by.
The announcement of the sad news of the Queen’s passing, like all of the events following her death, followed strict protocol. The Prime Minister was informed using a pre-arranged code “London Bridge is down”. And somewhere, deep in the gardens of Buckinham palace, the royal beekeeper informed the royal bees. That’s right the beekeeper, John Chapple, who’s been the Queen’s beekeeper for 15 years and takes care of up to a million bees, personally went to each hive in both Buckingham palace and Clarence house, to let them know that the queen was dead.
Why does he tell the bees? Where does this tradition come from ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Should we be worried about the Lensa AI avatar app?
How does the 3-30-300 rule affect my mental health?
How can I return unwanted gifts?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
How can I celebrate New Year’s at home and still have fun?
Heading out to celebrate the New Year can be great fun, but it can also be stressful, crowded and expensive. And it is not always possible you might live far from a town, have little children and no babysitter or maybe you are just not feeling up to it. Whatever the reason, here are some tips on how to ring in the new year from the comfort of your own home but still have fun!
Being at home does not mean being alone. You could invite friends over for a dinner party, a game night or even just a film night. You can choose whether you want to dress up, keep it casual or even go for fancy dress. You can make it special by planning a meal and dressing the table or even decorating the house and of course planning the playlist. If you choose to host a games night it could be as simple as monopoly or scrabble or you could go all out and host a murder mystery party complete with roles to play and a killer to uncover.
How can I still see friends but stay at home? What if my friends live far away? What if I just want to be alone? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I return unwanted gifts?
Could the deep work technique help me concentrate better at work?
What can I do to relieve heartburn?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/29/2022 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
[10 WORDS THAT MADE 2022] What is Roe vs Wade, the ruling that guaranteed American women abortion rights?
Do You Really Know, Bababam's daily podcast, helps you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. This week, we're looking back at 10 words and phrases that have been on everyone's lips in 2022. From the Uber Files leak to "shrinkflation" in stores or "quiet quitting" at work, refresh your memory on some of the events and phenomena that best sum up the year gone by.
In late June 2022, the US Supreme Court controversially overturned the landmark Roe vs Wade decision which for decades protected women’s freedom to have an abortion anywhere in the country. Five of the six conservative judges sitting on the supreme court voted in favour of the reversal, ensuring a majority. US President Joe Biden said it was a “sad day for the court and for the country” and called on Americans to elect local candidates who will restore abortion rights.
How quickly will the impact of the decision be felt? How did the Roe vs Wade ruling first come around? Why has everything changed now? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I return unwanted gifts?
Could the deep work technique help me concentrate better at work?
What can I do to relieve heartburn?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/29/2022 • 5 minutes, 29 seconds
Should we be worried about the Lensa AI avatar app?
If you’re a big social media user, you’ve likely seen an influx of illustrated selfies on your feeds in the last month or so. All of a sudden, your friends started posting self-portraits showing them transformed into fairy princesses, anime characters or astronauts.
These impressive images might look like works of art, as if they’ve been carefully hand-crafted by hand. But they’re actually the result of Prisma Lab’s Lensa AI app, and more specifically the newly added Magic Avatar feature. It promises to “make your selfies look better than you ever imagined” and as of December 2022 became the top free-to-download app in the US App Store.
How does it work? What’s not to like then? What about personal data? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I return unwanted gifts?
Could the deep work technique help me concentrate better at work?
What can I do to relieve heartburn?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
How does the 3-30-300 rule affect my mental health?
In our increasingly urbanised world, it’s important to make time for reconnecting with nature. The latest study to grab our attention in this area was conducted by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health and published in December 2022. It looked into the so-called 3-30-300 rule, which was theorised by Spanish forest researcher Cecil Konijnendijk in 2021.
It's made up of three criteria, which each give our mental health a boost: we should have three trees in view from our home, live in a neighbourhood with 30% tree canopy cover and live within 300 metres of a park. Researchers interviewed over 3,000 residents in Barcelona and found that less than 5% of them were lucky enough to live in an area which met all three of the 3-30-300 rule’s criteria. Indeed, 22.4% of respondents had none of the elements.
Interesting, so what did we learn from the latest study? What is it about green spaces that makes us calmer? What are the best ways to apply the 3-30-300 rule? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I return unwanted gifts?
Could the deep work technique help me concentrate better at work?
What can I do to relieve heartburn?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
How can I return unwanted gifts?
It’s great to be remembered by friends, colleagues, and family at Christmas, but despite people’s best intentions, they don't always get you what you want. So now the festive season is over and the wrapping is off it might be time to take some of those gifts back rather than let them gather dust in a cupboard.
If you bought something, in-store or online and it is faulty then by law you can get a full refund if you return it within 30 days. After 30 days, the store's obliged to provide a repair or a replacement. However, legally speaking, you do not have the right to return an item because you don't like it. That said most shops have their own, generous returns policy so it is worth finding out what their terms are before you try and return an unwanted item and expect the money back if they only offer exchanges or store credit.
What are your rights? What’s a gift receipt? What can you do if you can’t return it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I protect my mental health during the holiday season?
Why does Christmas boost our libido?
Is Santa Claus red because of Coca Cola?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/27/2022 • 4 minutes
[10 WORDS THAT MADE 2022] What is war rape?
Do You Really Know, Bababam's daily podcast, helps you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. This week, we're looking back at 10 words and phrases that have been on everyone's lips in 2022. From the Uber Files leak to "shrinkflation" in stores or "quiet quitting" at work, refresh your memory on some of the events and phenomena that best sum up the year gone by.
In a report published on 3rd April, international NGO Human Rights Watch made allegations of "war crimes" carried out by Russian soldiers against civilians in occupied areas of Ukraine. These included executions, violence, threats and war rape, which is the subject of today’s episode. Since the start of the war, accounts have begun to emerge, with the truth being brought to light by victims and witnesses. A woman from a village near to Kharkiv told how she had been beaten, cut with a knife and repeatedly raped by a Russian soldier.
Why does war lead to more rapes? How far back do the first records of war rape go? How is war rape punished? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why does Norway offer a Christmas tree to London every year?
How to have an eco-friendly Christmas?
How can I prepare my home for a blackout?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/27/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
Could the deep work technique help me concentrate better at work?
Distractions in the workplace are almost endless, from Slack group notifications to questions from colleagues to the dozen or more tabs you’ve got open in your browser. By the time your next meeting comes along, you realise two hours have passed and you’ve barely done any productive work at all.
Sound familiar? Thankfully there’s a method to improve your efficiency and concentration which may help. It’s called deep work. We owe it to Cal Newport, a computer science professor at Georgetown University in the US. Newport is a renowned figure in personal development and in 2016 he released a self-help book entitled: Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World, which would go on to be a bestseller.
Where does the concept come from? What’s the best way to concentrate on deep work? What if my boss and colleagues think I’m being rude? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I protect my mental health during the holiday season?
Why does Christmas boost our libido?
Is Santa Claus red because of Coca Cola?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
[10 WORDS THAT MADE 2022] What is dawn dating?
Do You Really Know, Bababam's daily podcast, helps you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. This week, we're looking back at 10 words and phrases that have been on everyone's lips in 2022. From the Uber Files leak to "shrinkflation" in stores or "quiet quitting" at work, refresh your memory on some of the events and phenomena that best sum up the year gone by.
Dating practices evolve over time along with our ways of life. Over the last two years, Covid-19 restrictions and remote work have had a huge impact on the love lives of singletons all across the world. All of a sudden, it was much less practical to meet a potential suitor face to face. As a result dates became few and far between for many. Now of course, in-person interactions have become safer, but for some their habits may have changed for good! For most of us, a typical date involves evening drinks or dinner.
How did we find out about dawn dating? What are the main differences between morning and evening dates? Have there been many other changes in dating since the Covid pandemic started? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why does Norway offer a Christmas tree to London every year?
How to have an eco-friendly Christmas?
How can I prepare my home for a blackout?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
What can I do to relieve heartburn?
Christmas festivities often go hand in hand with overindulgence, in the form of large servings of roast dinner, yummy pudding and alcohol consumption. That can result in heartburn, a condition which despite the terrifying sounding name, is usually relatively harmless.
It’s a burning sensation felt in the chest, behind the breastbone, which explains where the name comes from. But it’s actually down to stomach acid travelling back up the oesophagus, which is the tube that carries food down from your throat. Let’s discuss a few tips for preventing heartburn, or relieving the symptoms if you do get some during the holiday season.
Are some people more vulnerable than others? Are there particular foods to avoid? What can I do to calm the symptoms? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I protect my mental health during the holiday season?
Why does Christmas boost our libido?
Is Santa Claus red because of Coca Cola?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/25/2022 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
[10 WORDS THAT MADE 2022] What is shrinkflation, the sneaky tactic manufacturers are hiding from consumers?
Do You Really Know, Bababam's daily podcast, helps you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. This week, we're looking back at 10 words and phrases that have been on everyone's lips in 2022. From the Uber Files leak to "shrinkflation" in stores or "quiet quitting" at work, refresh your memory on some of the events and phenomena that best sum up the year gone by.
Marketing technique shrinkflation is becoming more and more common in large retail stores, in particular down to the ongoing war in Ukraine. It sees manufacturers quietly reducing the size of their products, but maintaining prices at the same level. Shrinkflation is often a result of an increase in raw material prices and other production costs, but is seen as a form of hidden inflation and has been heavily criticised in many places. In the context of the current cost of living crisis, it’s definitely a sensitive subject.
Do you have any specific examples? Is shrinkflation illegal? As a consumer, how can I avoid falling victim to shrinkflation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why does Norway offer a Christmas tree to London every year?
How to have an eco-friendly Christmas?
How can I prepare my home for a blackout?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/25/2022 • 5 minutes, 16 seconds
Why are Christmas films so popular?
If you were to turn on your TV right now, or open up Netflix, the chances of you stumbling upon a cheesy Christmas movie would be pretty high. They tend to be full of clichés, cringeworthy one-liners and predictable plots, but still we just can't seem to get enough.
Let’s take a moment to delve into the psychology behind Christmas movies, and how they got to be so successful. Mormon director George Albert Smith released the first Christmas film : a short silent drama called Santa Claus, in 1898, which showed Santa visiting a house on Christmas eve. Moving into the 20th century, the history of Christmas movies reflects the story of Hollywood itself. In the US, they really became a genre, or even tradition, in their own right. The first wave came in the 1990s.
Who made the first Christmas film? If they’re repetitive and predictable, how come we keep coming back for more? What are the key ingredients for a good Christmas film then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I protect my mental health during the holiday season?
Why does Christmas boost our libido?
Is Santa Claus red because of Coca Cola?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/24/2022 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
[10 WORDS THAT MADE 2022] Is "quiet quitting" helping employees find a better work-life balance?
Do You Really Know, Bababam's daily podcast, helps you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. This week, we're looking back at 10 words and phrases that have been on everyone's lips in 2022. From the Uber Files leak to "shrinkflation" in stores or "quiet quitting" at work, refresh your memory on some of the events and phenomena that best sum up the year gone by.
"Quiet quitting" has been getting a lot of attention of late. So many young people have been rejecting “hustle culture”, which puts work at the centre of a person’s life and can lead to burnout. On this podcast, we’ve talked about a lot of factors affecting young workers and their mental health in recent times. It’s pretty well established that the Covid pandemic was a game changer, in that flexible working models became the norm and everybody started reassessing their priorities in life.
Is that like slipping out the back door? Is quiet quitting a good thing? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why does Norway offer a Christmas tree to London every year?
How to have an eco-friendly Christmas?
How can I prepare my home for a blackout?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/24/2022 • 5 minutes, 27 seconds
[10 WORDS THAT MADE 2022] What shady tactics have been uncovered by the Uber files leak?
Do You Really Know, Bababam's daily podcast, helps you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. This week, we're looking back at 10 words and phrases that have been on everyone's lips in 2022. From the Uber Files leak to "shrinkflation" in stores or "quiet quitting" at work, refresh your memory on some of the events and phenomena that best sum up the year gone by.
The chances are at some point in your life you’ve taken an Uber ride, perhaps heading home from a night out, to get to the airport or when running late for work for example. The company’s rise to prominence over the last decade has been staggering, and it’s now worth over $40 billion. But the ride-sharing tech giant has had its fair share of controversy along the way. And less than two weeks ago, a massive leak called the Uber files saw the company again come under the spotlight for the wrong reasons. It stands accused of employing questionable tactics on its way to the top.
How did the scandal break out? How did Uber develop into the giant it is these days? What else did the leaks reveal? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why does Christmas boost our libido?
Is Santa Claus red because of Coca Cola?
Why does Norway offer a Christmas tree to London every year?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/23/2022 • 5 minutes, 27 seconds
How can I protect my mental health during the holiday season?
Christmas is seen as a season of joy, but it can also be a testing time for many people, whether it’s mentally, emotionally, physically or financially. And 2022 may be worse than most years in that respect.
Most of the population are feeling additional pressure due to the cost-of-living crisis, and Christmas tends to be an expensive time. Furthermore, upsetting news stories have been dominating headlines throughout the year, like the ongoing war in Ukraine following Russia’s invasion, the global climate crisis and new waves of Covid 19.
What’s the best way to deal with difficult family situations? What strategies can I adopt? What should I do if it all just gets too much? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why does Christmas boost our libido?
Is Santa Claus red because of Coca Cola?
Why does Norway offer a Christmas tree to London every year?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
[10 WORDS THAT MADE 2022] Do we have a treatment for Monkeypox at last?
Do You Really Know, Bababam's daily podcast, helps you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. This week, we're looking back at 10 words and phrases that have been on everyone's lips in 2022. From the Uber Files leak to "shrinkflation" in stores or "quiet quitting" at work, refresh your memory on some of the events and phenomena that best sum up the year gone by.
In the last few months alone more than 3,000 people in the UK have caught the monkeypox virus and around 20 cases are being confirmed a day. As of July the World Health Organisation declared monkeypox a public health emergency of international concern. British scientists from the University of Oxford, in fact the same team who led the ‘Recovery trial’ which looked into a cure for acute covid, have become the first in the world to launch a clinical trial for Monkeypox.
What actually is monkeypox and how does it spread? What is the trial going to do? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why does Christmas boost our libido?
Is Santa Claus red because of Coca Cola?
Why does Norway offer a Christmas tree to London every year?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 56 seconds
Why does Christmas boost our libido?
According to a study published in the Scientific Reports journal in 2017, the holiday season sees a peak in sex-related searches on Google and Twitter. The researchers behind the study also identified an increase in birth rates in late September, in other words nine months after Christmas of the previous year.
So the evidence is there: for many of us, sexual desire increases at Christmas time. The study was called “Human Sexual Cycles are Driven by Culture and Match Collective Moods”, suggesting there’s something about our mood during the holiday season. And it’s not just Christmas.
What’s the science behind all that then? Does it apply to other culture holidays? Christmas can also be a stressful period though, can’t it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why does Norway offer a Christmas tree to London every year?
How to have an eco-friendly Christmas?
Why do Christmas decorations make me feel happier?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/21/2022 • 3 minutes, 37 seconds
Is Santa Claus red because of Coca Cola?
Christmas is almost upon us, and many of us see Coca Cola as being intrinsically linked to the season’s celebrations. That’s in no small part due to their iconic “Holidays are coming” TV adverts, like the 2019 version you can hear in the background. Indeed, it’s such a strong connection that many people wonder whether Santa Claus wears red because of Coca Cola.
In fact, the idea of a kind-hearted old man known for his displays of generosity predates Santa by quite some time. Another name for Santa is Saint Nicholas, who was a 4th century Turkish bishop of the same name. He would leave coins in the shoes and stockings of poor children around the end of the year. Historians agree that Santa was inspired by Saint Nicholas, who would also have worn red robes due to his religious role.
Where does Santa Claus come from? What was the link with Christmas? So what does Coca Cola have to do with all of this? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why does Norway offer a Christmas tree to London every year?
How to have an eco-friendly Christmas?
Why do Christmas decorations make me feel happier?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/21/2022 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
Why does Norway offer a Christmas tree to London every year?
If you have ever been to London over Christmas then you could not have missed the lights on oxford street and of course the huge Christmas tree standing proud in Trafalgar Square. But it is a little-known fact that this tree is actually a gift from Norway.
The very first tree was offered to England back in 1947 and every year since a tree is given to the British people from Norway to thank them for their support during WWII. During the war, Norway was occupied by Germany. The country, which had been at peace for over 150 years, surrendered quickly. But if Hitler thought that getting Norway to collaborate would be easy he was wrong. The king of Norway Haakon VII, in a fraught journey that nearly cost him his life on numerous occasions, fled to London.
When did this tradition start? How did the UK support Norway? How does it get to London from Norway? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How to have an eco-friendly Christmas?
Why do Christmas decorations make me feel happier?
How can I choose the perfect gift, according to science?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
[10 WORDS THAT MADE 2022] What is Stan Culture ?
Do You Really Know, Bababam's daily podcast, helps you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. This week, we're looking back at 10 words and phrases that have been on everyone's lips in 2022. From the Uber Files leak to "shrinkflation" in stores or "quiet quitting" at work, refresh your memory on some of the events and phenomena that best sum up the year gone by.
Little did Eminem know when he invented obsessed super fan Stan for a track on The Marshall Mathers LP in 2000, that over two decades later the term would still be used, albeit with a twist.The fictional fan Eminem wrote about ended up killing himself and his pregnant wife when his favourite rapper never replied to his letters. Nowadays, the term mostly refers to hardcore fan communities who are extremely active on social media.
How did stan culture emerge? Can you give me some examples? Stans sure are quick to jump to conclusions, aren’t they? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do Christmas decorations make me feel happier?
How can I choose the perfect gift, according to science?
Why is the latest wave of Covid-19 destabilising the Chinese regime?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/20/2022 • 5 minutes, 17 seconds
How to have an eco-friendly Christmas?
Christmas need not be a frenzy of shopping and unwanted gifts; more and more of us want to be mindful, minimal-waste consumers so here are some tips on how to have an eco-friendly Christmas.
Real trees are more sustainable than artificial, but there is still a lot of waste, once Christmas is over go to recyclenow.com to find out about drop-off points in your area, where old trees get turned into chippings for local parks and woodland areas. Alternatively, consider renting a real tree that is replanted once you are done. The same goes for wreaths, real and if you are on a budget you can make your own from foliage, red berries, or mistletoe that you can pick up in a park or wood.
How to have an eco-friendly tree and decorations? What about gifts? What about the meal? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do Christmas decorations make me feel happier?
How can I choose the perfect gift, according to science?
Why is the latest wave of Covid-19 destabilising the Chinese regime?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
[10 WORDS THAT MADE 2022] What are puff bars?
Do You Really Know, Bababam's daily podcast, helps you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. This week, we're looking back at 10 words and phrases that have been on everyone's lips in 2022. From the Uber Files leak to "shrinkflation" in stores or "quiet quitting" at work, refresh your memory on some of the events and phenomena that best sum up the year gone by.
Health professionals have warned against the dangers of puff bars on younger consumers for some time now. This recent phenomenon has become massively popular with young people, and especially on TikTok. Puff bars, also known as vape pens or pod mods, are flavoured electronic cigarettes designed for one-time use. Social networks have been flooded with puff bars of all different colours.
Do they taste like regular cigarettes? How did this trend start? Are they as bad for you as regular cigarettes? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do Christmas decorations make me feel happier?
How can I choose the perfect gift, according to science?
Why is the latest wave of Covid-19 destabilising the Chinese regime?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
[RERUN] What is Hanukkah?
This week marks the start of Hanukkah, so listen to our rerun episode that looks at the history and customs related to the annual Jewish festival which falls in December each year. It's often known as the festival of Lights, and its origins go back as far as 22 centuries!
The celebration is synonymous with commemorating a miracle. According to rabbinic tradition and ancient texts, Hanukkah represents the victory of the Jewish people over Greek invaders. In the 2nd century BC, Jewish peoples only accounted for a small portion of the vast territory governed by Greek king Antiochus IV. He ordered a campaign of repression against the Jewish religion, in favour of Hellenisation, meaning assimilating Greek traditions. He forbade rites and customs like circumcision, the Shabbat and even reading the Torah.
What did the Jewish community do? What happened next? How is Hanukkah celebrated? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do Christmas decorations make me feel happier?
How can I choose the perfect gift, according to science?
Why is the latest wave of Covid-19 destabilising the Chinese regime?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/18/2022 • 3 minutes, 53 seconds
How can I prepare my home for a blackout?
National Grid has warned of potential blackouts in the UK this winter, due to gas shortages. If it does happen, it would be the first time the country has seen controlled blackouts since the 1970s. The government has its Electricity Supply Emergency Code in place in case we end up in such a situation.
The government plan sees rolling blackouts, with areas split into 18 different load blocks, each assigned a letter from A to U. At level one, each load block has three three-hour blackout periods per week, at level two, six and at level three, nine, meaning up to 27 hours per week without power. The National Grid warning suggested this could happen in January and February 2023. Let’s be clear; as of yet it’s not a foregone conclusion that we’ll get to that stage; but it pays to be prepared. Let’s go over some top tips to make sure you’re ready.
Should I stock up on candles? What about food storage? What can I do to stay entertained? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do Christmas decorations make me feel happier?
How can I choose the perfect gift, according to science?
Why is the latest wave of Covid-19 destabilising the Chinese regime?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/17/2022 • 5 minutes, 1 second
Why do Christmas decorations make me feel happier?
Now if you’re anything like us, you get your Christmas tree, baubles and tinsel out before November has even ended! And as it turns out, psychologists say there could be mental health benefits to having Christmas decorations up in the house. So there’s no shame in wanting to get festive as early as possible.
Improving your mood to start with. This is often linked to feelings of nostalgia. We think back to our childhood, when things were simpler. In our stressful adult lives, we have few opportunities to really feel irresponsible. Reliving the magic of Christmas by putting up colourful decorations is one way to take the pressure off, as it’s a time of innocence and joy. Bear in mind, this might not apply to people who have negative memories of the holiday season from the past. In that case, you might not feel like getting in the Christmas spirit at all.
What kind of benefits are we talking about? What do Christmas decorations do to our brains? Do Christmas decorations affect our social lives? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How to save money on your heating bill this winter?
Who is Viktor Bout, the Russian "Merchant of Death" freed by the US?
What is friluftsliv, the perfect Norwegian lifestyle trend for winter?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/16/2022 • 3 minutes, 57 seconds
How can I choose the perfect gift, according to science?
Here we are, it’s one week until Christmas Day, meaning it’s your last chance to buy gifts for loved ones. There’s always a certain amount of pressure on givers to get their choice right, which can lead to stress.
Gifts at Christmas are pretty much expected, so you have to do a little better than with a spontaneous gift at any other time of the year. Fear not, science is here to help you hit the nail on the head! In 2016, researchers from Carnegie Mellon University and Indiana University in the US looked at all existing studies on gift-giving and receiving to create a review. Their findings were published in the Current Directions in Psychological Science journal.
What makes a gift “good” then? Should I avoid surprise gifts then? What about experience-driven gifts? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How to save money on your heating bill this winter?
Who is Viktor Bout, the Russian "Merchant of Death" freed by the US?
What is friluftsliv, the perfect Norwegian lifestyle trend for winter?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
Why is the latest wave of Covid-19 destabilising the Chinese regime?
On the night of 24th November 2022, a locked down building caught fire in Urumqi in the majority-Uyghur Xinjiang region of China. Firefighters were held back by the sealed entrance to the building, in place due to the latest strict Covid-19 lockdown measures. 10 people ended up dying in the fire.
The following day, tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets in cities across China. Grievances against the Zero Covid policy had turned into grievances against Xi Jinping’s authoritarian regime. CNN has called it an “unprecedented uprising”. This kind of protest movement hadn't been seen since Tiananmen Square, where a student revolt was brutally put down on the night of 3rd June 1989. Tanks were deployed, killing over 2000 protesters .
Are we saying this kind of protest movement has never happened before? What form are the latest protests taking? Could this really cause the Chinese regime to wobble? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How to save money on your heating bill this winter?
Who is Viktor Bout, the Russian "Merchant of Death" freed by the US?
What is friluftsliv, the perfect Norwegian lifestyle trend for winter?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
How to save money on your heating bill this winter?
As the cold weather closes in, it's time to put on the heating but there are plenty of ways to efficiently heat your home and save money. 46 percent of people believe it is better to leave the heating on low at all times however, according to experts from the Energy saving Trust it is better to only put the heating on when you need it.
The reason is that your home is constantly losing heat and if you have the heating on all day you are making greater losses, heat the house when you need it and you will only lose a minimal amount of heat. First, get to the heart of the issue - the boiler. If you have an older boiler, particularly over ten years, it is probably less efficient and may cost more. Make sure you get it serviced, and if needed consider changing it.
Is it better to leave the heating on low all day or only heat when I need it? How can I reduce heat loss? How else can I keep heat from escaping? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who is Viktor Bout, the Russian "Merchant of Death" freed by the US?
What is friluftsliv, the perfect Norwegian lifestyle trend for winter?
Can standing on one leg save your life?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
[RERUN] What is Ugly Sweater Day?
It could be a Christmas tree, a skier in a bobble hat, a team of reindeer, a snowman or Mr Santa Claus himself. OK no need to guess, we’re talking about motifs that you could find on an ugly Christmas sweater. It’s truly become a popular gift option and wardrobe staple of the holiday season in recent years.
The concept originated with commercial impetus in the 1950s in the United States, before gaining further exposure in TV series. It thus entered pop culture as a way to celebrate self-conscious kitsch. From then on, the ugly sweater became a fashion phenomenon and evolved into a global industry. Brands, department stores and distribution chains, couldn’t help but fall for it, turning the knitted ugliness into a serious and highly lucrative business!
But how did the Christmas sweater get so popular? Let me guess, there’s a dedicated hashtag isn’t there? But how did we go from Christmas sweater to ugly Christmas sweater? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who is Viktor Bout, the Russian "Merchant of Death" freed by the US?
What is friluftsliv, the perfect Norwegian lifestyle trend for winter?
Can standing on one leg save your life?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
Who is Viktor Bout, the Russian "Merchant of Death" freed by the US?
Prior to February 2022, the scenario of a women’s basketball star being traded for an arms dealer might have seemed inconceivable. But that’s exactly what happened last week, when Russia and the United States exchanged prisoners at Abu Dhabi airport.
Phoenix Mercury player Brittney Griner was arrested a week prior to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine beginning, for allegedly possessing cannabis oil in her luggage upon arrival in Russia. She ended up being sentenced to nine years in prison, but her nightmare was finally brought to an end through the prisoner exchange. The cost for the United States was releasing the world’s biggest living arms dealer, Viktor Anatolievitch Bout, also known as the Merchant of Death. He had been imprisoned for 11 years in the United States.
What is Bout’s background? Who did Viktor Bout sell arms to? Why was he imprisoned in the United States? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Can standing on one leg save your life?
Why is physical contact important for our health?
What's the ideal temperature to stay healthy at home?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
What is friluftsliv, the perfect Norwegian lifestyle trend for winter?
Last weekend brought snowfall across much of the United Kingdom, offering a clear sign that winter is here. Now with temperatures this low, the instinct for many of us may be to cuddle up in bed under a blanket. But the subject of today’s episode is all about getting outdoors whatever the weather.
Friluftsliv is a Norwegian term that more or less translates as “open-air living”. You could call it the outdoor equivalent of Denmark’s hygge, which is all about finding comfort indoors. Indeed, Norway has strong outdoor traditions all year round, even when days are short during the winter. Friluftsliv is so ingrained in Norwegian culture that universities offer bachelor’s degree courses in it, and it’s protected by law through the Outdoors Recreation Act.
Where does it come from? What about us city dwellers? How can we embrace friluftsliv in our local area? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Can standing on one leg save your life?
Why is physical contact important for our health?
What's the ideal temperature to stay healthy at home?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
Can standing on one leg save your life?
Surprising as it may seem, balance is more important than you might think. In September of 2022 the British Journal of Sports Medicine published the results of a ten year study which involved more than 1,700 middle-aged participants. They concluded that not being able to balance was associated with an almost twofold increase in risk of death.
Volunteers were asked to stand on one leg with their arms by their sides and keep their eyes looking straight ahead. They discovered that an inability to hold the position for 10 seconds was associated with an 84% heightened risk of death from any cause. Participants were allowed to try 3 times. Balance is quite difficult to explain. It involves several different systems in your body: muscles, nerves, eyesight, the inner ear and even the sensory system that lets you recognise where your body is in space.
What is balance? How did they test participants for balance? Why does losing your balance matter? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is physical contact important for our health?
What's the ideal temperature to stay healthy at home?
Why are Nobel Prizes so important?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/13/2022 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Tiananmen Square Massacre?
32 years ago today, Tiananmen Square in the heart of Beijing, saw unprecedented student protests. As night fell on June 3rd 1989, the Chinese military entered the square with a number of tanks and opened fire on the unarmed crowd.
The number of deaths is estimated between 1,000 and 2,000, in what became known internationally as the Tiananmen Square Massacre. Thus ended seven weeks worth of pro-democracy and anti-corruption protests. One particular image is shared every time the month of June comes around. It’s that of a lone man blocking the path of the Chinese army tanks. It really highlights the imbalance of force between the military and the peaceful student protesters.
How did we get to such a drastic situation? Are you saying the massacre put a stop to a series of social movements? Why is this period of Chinese history so poorly known? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is physical contact important for our health?
What's the ideal temperature to stay healthy at home?
Why are Nobel Prizes so important?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/13/2022 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
Why is physical contact important for our health?
When it comes to expressions about skin, the English language is not lacking. For example, we can be thick or thin skinned, or have someone under our skin. To show indifference, we say “it’s no skin off” our noses, and when we get excited we “jump out of” our skin.
The sheer number of different idioms reflects the deep links the skin has with our brains. Sometimes these links are visible and give away our feelings, when we blush, go pale or get goosebumps. The same can be said for stress too, in the case of some skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
How does the skin send information to the brain? What impact does touch have on our brains? How does touch affect health then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why was Kanye West’s Twitter account suspended?
How can you save money on your food bill?
Why is 'permacrisis' the new dictionary word of the year?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/12/2022 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
What's the ideal temperature to stay healthy at home?
Winter is coming and this year in particular people are wondering how to strike the right balance between comfort at home and continually rising energy bills. The World Health Organisation suggests that 18° C is the perfect temperature to set your heating to, but in reality that is just an average. There are a number of variables to take into account.
For example, certain rooms might need to be heated more than others. And generally speaking, when we’re away from home or sleeping at night we can turn the heating down or off completely. That’s right, it can depend on age and medical conditions like thyroid problems for example. Where a certain temperature might be comfortable for some, for others it might be less bearable.
Isn’t it true that some people are more sensitive to the cold than others? Which rooms need to be heated more than others then? What should you do if your home is humid? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why was Kanye West’s Twitter account suspended?
How can you save money on your food bill?
Why is 'permacrisis' the new dictionary word of the year?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/11/2022 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
[RERUN] What is the thyroid?
This small butterfly-shaped gland is situated at the bottom of the neck, wrapped around the windpipe. It plays an important role in a number of bodily functions, but isn’t as well known as it should be.
According to The American Thyroid Association, over 12% of the country’s population will develop a thyroid disorder at some point in their life. Many people are actually unaware of the fact that they even have thyroid disease. Such problems are actually five to eight times more common in women than in men. World Thyroid Day falls on 25th May every year, so let’s take the opportunity to boost awareness.
What is the purpose of the thyroid? How can I find out if my thyroid functions correctly? Is there anything I can do to stop myself from developing a thyroid disorder? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why was Kanye West’s Twitter account suspended?
How can you save money on your food bill?
How did the Act Up group change the way we think about AIDS?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/11/2022 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
Why are Nobel Prizes so important?
This Saturday sees the 2022 Nobel Prize award ceremony take place in Stockholm. Like every year, it’s held on 10th December, to coincide with the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s death. Tradition also dictates that the Prize laureates are announced in October.
This year’s laureates include Alain Aspect, John F. Clauser and Anton Zeilinger in Physics, Carolyn R. Bertozzi, Morton Meldal and K. Barry Sharpless in Chemistry, Svante Paabo in Physiology or Medicine, and Annie Ernaux in Literature. Meanwhile, the Nobel Peace Prize laureates are all being recognised for their role in documenting war crimes and human rights abuses since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February.
Who was Alfred Nobel then? On what criteria are the Nobel Prizes awarded? Who chooses the laureates? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why was Kanye West’s Twitter account suspended?
How can you save money on your food bill?
Why is 'permacrisis' the new dictionary word of the year?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/10/2022 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
Why was Kanye West’s Twitter account suspended?
In recent weeks, one of the world’s most famous singers has been generating even more headlines than usual, but for all the wrong reasons. It all started on 3rd October at Paris Fashion week. Kanye West, now known as Ye, wore a T-shirt with the words “White Lives Matter” on it.
The slogan has been linked to white supremacists in the US. Following that incident, fellow rapper P Diddy defended Ye in public and tried to reason with him privately. But Ye went on to post a screenshot of their conversation on Instagram, accusing Diddy of being controlled by Jews. A common antisemitic trope suggests that the Jews control various sections of society, like the media, financial institutions and even governments.
What do Jewish people have to do with P Diddy? What was the fallout? Isn’t Kanye West mentally ill? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can you save money on your food bill?
Why is 'permacrisis' the new dictionary word of the year?
Is it dangerous if I get heart palpitations?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
How can you save money on your food bill?
The cost of living crisis has seen food prices increase by as much as 65% according to the Office for National Statistics meaning that the average British household spends an extra £600 pounds a year on food.
But considering that there is also about 4.5 million tonnes of food waste annually the possibility of reducing wasted food as well as bills has never been more needed. Reducing your bill at the checkout comes down largely to planning. Getting organised about how, when and where you buy your food as well as how you store and cook it is essential. For starters buying in bulk can really reduce costs.
How can I reduce the amount I spend on food? How can I reduce my food waste? How can technology help? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is 'permacrisis' the new dictionary word of the year?
Is it dangerous if I get heart palpitations?
Why do we get great ideas in the shower?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/8/2022 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
[RERUN] What is Generation Covid?
In social sciences, a generation refers to a group of the population whose members are around the same age and have hence lived through the same era. Think the baby boomers, Generation X, Millennials… and now Generation Covid!
While they may be significantly less at risk of serious illness from Covid-19, young people are bearing the brunt of the pandemic’s economic consequences. Their development into adulthood is increasingly being affected, and it’s taking a mental toll. It’s become clear that Covid-19 will have a lasting impact long after the pandemic ends, to such an extent that it will shape an entire generation.
So who exactly do we count as part of Generation Covid? What about students and young adults? How have they been affected? Is there any cause for optimism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is 'permacrisis' the new dictionary word of the year?
Is it dangerous if I get heart palpitations?
Why do we get great ideas in the shower?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/8/2022 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
How did the Act Up group change the way we think about AIDS?
Every year, 1st December is World AIDS day. To mark the occasion, let’s look back at the story of the Act Up group. Act Up started causing a buzz in New York in 1987, four years after the AIDS virus had been discovered.
The highly organised group met several times a week to discuss their action plan. They demanded more prevention and communication campaigns from the state, better access to care, transparency from pharmaceutical labs and an end to the deportation of undocumented migrants. They used shock tactics to attract the attention of the media.
When was this group formed? What kind of campaigns did they use? What are some examples of concessions secured by Act Up? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is 'permacrisis' the new dictionary word of the year?
Is it dangerous if I get heart palpitations?
Why do we get great ideas in the shower?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
Who are the FARC, Colombia's most dangerous rebel group?
In late November 2022, fighting killed at least 18 in a rural area of the Putumayu province in South west Colombia, near to the borders with Ecuador and Peru. It involved two dissident groups of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, known as the FARC for short.
It has reignited tensions in an internal armed conflict which has spanned six decades, despite the government and FARC signing a peace agreement back in 2016. Their origins go back to Cold War times, when there was high instability in the country. Even before that, there had been a bloody civil war between 1948 and 1953, which was known as La Violencia. It started when popular Liberal presidential candidate Jorge Eliecer Gaitan was assassinated in 1948.
How did the FARC organisation start out? Why did they turn to violence? How did the peace process start? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is 'permacrisis' the new dictionary word of the year?
Is it dangerous if I get heart palpitations?
Why do we get great ideas in the shower?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
Why is 'permacrisis' the new dictionary word of the year?
This portmanteau word describes the feeling of “living through a period of war, inflation, and political instability,” Collins said it chose the word as it “sums up how truly awful 2022 has been for so many people”.
The Collins team consulted their 8 billion-word database as well as a range of media sources, including social media, to create an annual list of new and notable words and how they are used. It then compiled its annual 10 words or phrases which "reflect our ever-evolving language and the preoccupations of those who use it". Helen Newstead, language content consultant at Collins Dictionary, told The Washington Post “It was very apparent this year that the conversation was dominated by crisis,”
How was it chosen? What does the word mean? What other words were included? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is it dangerous if I get heart palpitations?
Why do we get great ideas in the shower?
Why do we see faces in inanimate objects?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/6/2022 • 4 minutes
[RERUN] What are microplastics?
There are tiny fragments of plastic pretty much everywhere in the ocean, in the ground and inside animals, including humans! These are known as microplastics, and their potential impact on human health and the environment is a cause for concern.
Microplastics aren’t a specific type of plastic per se. The term is used to refer to any fragments which are under 5 mm in length. Some examples are polystyrene, polypropylene, polythene and a bunch of other poly-things. They come from large plastic objects, like cosmetics or synthetic fabrics in clothing. The obvious example is on ocean floors, where scientists have estimated there are 14 million tonnes of microplastics.
Where are microplastics spreading the most? There must be some protected locations out there, surely? Is it actually dangerous to consume plastic though? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is it dangerous if I get heart palpitations?
Why do we get great ideas in the shower?
Why do we see faces in inanimate objects?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
Is it dangerous if I get heart palpitations?
On average the human heart beats at a rate of 1.16 times per second, or 100 times per minute. Sometimes the heart rate gets faster, slower or is irregular. And the older we get, the more likely we are to experience heart palpitations.
The first thing to underline is that these palpitations are completely normal and harmless 90% of the time. Furthermore even if they’re particularly intense, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s anything serious. Irregular palpitations while resting could be extrasystoles. These are additional heartbeats that occur outside the physiological heart rhythm, and are known colloquially as skipped heartbeats or heart hiccups. We don’t know exactly why they happen, but again most of the time they’re harmless.
Why does my heart sometimes start racing even when I’m resting then? Should I be worried if that’s the case? What can I do to relieve palpitations when I’m getting them? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is bae-realing, the new dating trend?
Why are Christmas adverts so moving?
Could Mastodon replace Twitter?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/5/2022 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
Why do we get great ideas in the shower?
Have you ever noticed that you tend to have your best ideas in the shower? If so, you’re not alone! A 2014 study conducted by cognitive psychologist Scott Barry Kaufman found that 72% of people get creative ideas while showering. So it’s really not a coincidence.
Science has shown that taking a shower is actually a perfect combination of a few factors which allow for optimal creativity. Struggling to solve a particularly complicated problem at work or in your studies? Need to come up with the perfect Christmas gift idea, or plan an event? Try jumping in the shower; you’d be surprised how often it’s more effective than continuing to grind away or hoping for a flash of inspiration.
How can taking a shower boost creativity? Do hormones have anything to do with it? Does this state of mind have a name? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is bae-realing, the new dating trend?
Why are Christmas adverts so moving?
Could Mastodon replace Twitter?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Britney Spears conservatorship case?
Ardent fans and onlookers alike have probably noticed the diva’s disappearance from major social media platforms, including Instagram. Before deactivating her accounts, Britney assured her followers on Twitter she was just taking a break to celebrate her engagement and promised to be back soon.
However, there seems to be more to the story. According to the Guardian, the star’s account has been a focus in the battle over her conservatorship, a complex legal arrangement that has been making her life miserable for 13 years. Britney mentioned walking out of social media is a way of proclaiming her regained freedom.
But how did conservatorship turn her life into a nightmare? Who would do that to her? But given Britney’s breakdown, don’t you think conservatorship is appropriate? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is bae-realing, the new dating trend?
Why are Christmas adverts so moving?
Could Mastodon replace Twitter?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
Why do we see faces in inanimate objects?
Have you ever looked at a piece of toast, a cloud or a nearby house and had the impression there’s a face in it, looking right back at you? If you’re like most people, it happens to you on a regular basis, and once you’ve seen the face, you just can’t un-see it! It’s down to a human tendency known as pareidolia.
The psychological phenomenon comes from the Greek words para, meaning “beside” or “beyond” and “idolia”, meaning form or image. It’s basically our brains playing tricks on us, but for a very good reason. And it’s nothing new either; Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci wrote about it in his notebooks. Pareidolia is an example of apophenia, which is the tendency to make sense of, or connect things that are actually unconnected. Our brains are always looking for patterns in information from the outside world, to use as a basis for the decisions we make.
Do you have any examples? Why does the brain do that then? Are some people more affected than others? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is bae-realing, the new dating trend?
Why are Christmas adverts so moving?
Could Mastodon replace Twitter?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/3/2022 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
What is bae-realing, the new dating trend?
Ever since social media came along, dating trends have evolved constantly. They tend to reflect changes in society too. In previous episodes of Do You Really Know, we’ve talked about dawn dating, sneating and ghosting for example.
There are so many different terms out there, and not all of them are positive. Here’s another one you may have heard of recently, in particular if you’re single and use dating apps; bae-realing. You might have started to feel like all these manufactured dates aren’t natural, that they’re unwholesome. If that’s the case, you may well be seduced by the authenticity and even radicalism of bae-realing. It’s been called “a breath of fresh air” by Stylist magazine.
Where does the name come from? Why has bae-realing become a trend now? How can I take part in the trend? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why are Christmas adverts so moving?
Could Mastodon replace Twitter?
Why do crowd crushes happen?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
Why are Christmas adverts so moving?
John Lewis has released its annual Christmas advert; entitled ‘The Beginner.’ It follows the progress of a middle aged man as he slowly, painfully and determinedly learns how to skateboard.
The montage ends by revealing that he is doing all this to make his foster daughter feel welcome when she comes to stay with them for Christmas. It's touching and, for all but the most cold hearted, brings a tear to the eye. You might expect a company to release an advert at Christmas to promote their products. However, research conducted by Princeton University shows that stories are easier to remember than facts so an advert that tells a story is much more likely to be more memorable.
Why is John Lewis appealing to our hearts? What are some famous Christmas ads? What makes a successful Christmas advert? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Could Mastodon replace Twitter?
Why do crowd crushes happen?
Is Britain the new place to get your wine?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/1/2022 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
[RERUN] Can carbon farming help us reach net zero by 2050?
Reaching carbon net zero by 2050 is one of the main objectives in the struggle against global warming. It’s also part of the Green New Deal the EU agreed upon in 2019. Since the start of 2022, many figures in agriculture have been pushing for a carbon farming policy which would see farmers rewarded for their efforts in sequestering carbon.
It’s about using agricultural fields to store CO2 in the ground. Plants first absorb it from the air through a process called photosynthesis. Then their roots and other parts decompose, being converted into soil carbon by microbes. Soil is in fact the second largest form of carbon sink on Earth, after the oceans and ahead of forests. The aim is to sequester carbon more quickly. That leads to a greater organic content in the ground, allowing for better water retention and a reduction in the use of fertilizers.
How does carbon farming work?Why is agriculture in particular concerned by the net zero target? What is expected at a European level? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Could Mastodon replace Twitter?
Why do crowd crushes happen?
Is Britain the new place to get your wine?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/1/2022 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
Could Mastodon replace Twitter?
As we discussed recently on Do You Really Know, Elon Musk’s Twitter buyout has been causing concern not just among company employees, but also” the platform’s users. Around a month has passed since the Tesla and Space X boss expanded his portfolio with the acquisition of Twitter.
But he’s already fired over half of all employees and made a host of other unpopular changes. Some users have already decided it’s time to look elsewhere, and that’s where Mastodon comes into the equation. The small social network was created back in 2016 by then 23-year-old German IT engineer Eugen Rochko. Now might just be its time to shine.
What kind of social network is Mastdodon then? What’s the point in switching if the two platforms are so similar? Is it calmer than Twitter? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is Britain the new place to get your wine?
Why is there such a taboo over the prostate?
How can I take part in Giving Tuesday?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
Why do crowd crushes happen?
On 29th October 2022, 20,000 people were celebrating Halloween in the Itaewon neighbourhood of Seoul in South Korea. One particularly narrow street became very overcrowded, and a huge crush ensued, leading to the deaths of 153 people, with many more injured. A month later, we still don’t know exactly what caused the crush.
One of the theories out there is that a rumour spread in the crowd, leading them to believe that a celebrity was in a nearby bar. But a lot of blame has been apportioned to the authorities for poor planning and a slow response to events. A lot of people think that crowd crushes are down to a stampede of people running in panic and crushing others on the floor.
Why do things get dangerous in such situations? Are crowd crushes rare or do they happen often? How can I protect myself and others if I end up in an overcrowded area? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is Britain the new place to get your wine?
Why is there such a taboo over the prostate?
How can I take part in Giving Tuesday?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
Is Britain the new place to get your wine?
When you think of wine, you probably think of France, Bordeaux, Burgundy or Beaujolais. But we could soon be looking to Kent, Dorset and Hampshire instead, especially when it comes to sparkling wine.
Since 2000 the total amount of land in England and Wales given over to vineyards has quadrupled in size and established wine makers, particularly from the Champagne region in France are taking notice and are keen to take advantage of this new market. In 2016, the Pommery group invested in farmland in Kent which they transformed into vineyards. When interviewed for the Daily Mail, about the 2022 harvest, Julien Lonneux from Pommery said : “This is a truly vintage crop, easily the best in a decade.”
How much sparkling wine is currently produced in the UK? Who is taking an interest in English wine? Why is English wine getting better? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is there such a taboo over the prostate?
How can I take part in Giving Tuesday?
What can supermarkets do to reduce food waste?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/29/2022 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Iranian nuclear program?
On the 23rd of Novembre 2022, Iran announced it would be producing enriched uranium, expanding its nuclear program. Listen to our rerun episode which describes the Iranian nuclear program.
It was launched in the 1950s by Shah Mohamed Reza Pahlavi, with the help of the United States. Ensuring the peaceful use of nuclear power was a critical global issue for some time, with the International Atomic Energy Agency formed in 1957 and the UN’s Non-Proliferation Treaty signed in 1968. Then in 1979, an Islamic revolution took place in Iran, with Ayatollah Khomeiny taking power. The country’s nuclear program was put on standby.
So when did the Iranian nuclear program actually begin? Were the suspicions founded then? What’s gone wrong since the 2015 deal? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is there such a taboo over the prostate?
How can I take part in Giving Tuesday?
What can supermarkets do to reduce food waste?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/29/2022 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
Why is there such a taboo over the prostate?
The prostate is a male organ that's situated right above the bladder, in front of the rectum. It's a small gland the size of a chestnut that plays a fundamental role in the reproductive system. It produces the protastic fluids that ensure the maturation and survival of sperm.
The prostate is also an incredibly erogenous zone, though it's not often explored amongst heterosexual men. Psychoanalyst and sex therapist Alain Héril for Slate said that: "The simulation of this gland over the course of a prostatic massage provokes a very particular pleasure. This massage can be done using hands or specific sextoys. The prospate is also a very fragile organ, so it's important to get it check - especially as you get older.
Why is it important to get my prostate checked? How can I avoid prostate cancer? How can I take care of this organ on the daily? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Should I take part in Buy Nothing Day?
How to buy second hand gifts?
How can I stay trendy buying only second hand clothes?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
How can I take part in Giving Tuesday?
November is synonymous with Black Friday, great deals but what cost? Over consumption is endangering our already fragile planet. Is it time to change our ways? This week Do You Really Know is highlighting concepts and initiatives about reducing our consumption.
Giving Tuesday is a worldwide initiative which encourages people to do good. The movement was created in the United States in 2012, and has since spread to have a presence in 75 different countries as of 2021. This year, like every year, Giving Tuesday is celebrated the Tuesday after Thanksgiving and Black Friday, which falls on 29th November this time around. Well that does play a big part. A lot of companies and charities match donations to encourage people to give.
Is it all about donating to charity then? What can I do to help if I'm strapped for cash? What about business owners? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Should I take part in Buy Nothing Day?
How to buy second hand gifts?
How can I stay trendy buying only second hand clothes?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/27/2022 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
What can supermarkets do to reduce food waste?
November is synonymous with Black Friday, great deals but what cost? Over consumption is endangering our already fragile planet. Is it time to change our ways? This week Do You Really Know is highlighting concepts and initiatives about reducing our consumption.
According to the World Wildlife Foundation, roughly a third of all produced in the world goes to waste. What’s more the United Nations’ Food and Agricultural Organisation says that food waste accounts for a third of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions and 8% of greenhouse gas emissions in total. With that in mind, we might feel guilty when we don’t finish our dinner, or leave something in the fridge for too long and have to throw it out.
Where do these problems come from? Do new technologies have a part to play in this? What about imperfect food items? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Should I take part in Buy Nothing Day?
How to buy second hand gifts?
How can I stay trendy buying only second hand clothes?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
[ANTI-CONSUMERISM] Resale, repair, rental, refill… could this be the new way to shop?
November is synonymous with Black Friday, great deals but what cost? Over consumption is endangering our already fragile planet. Is it time to change our ways? This week Do You Really Know is highlighting concepts and initiatives about reducing our consumption.
You might have heard of ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ a motto with the aim of encouraging us to think about how we consume and consider the impact that buying lots of stuff has on the planet. But now the high end department store Selfridges has launched a new campaign, ‘Project Earth’ to try and change the way we shop: resale, repair, rental and refill is their response to customers' growing demands for sustainable shopping and move away from fast fashion and disposable goods.
What is the aim? How will it work? What other changes has Selfridges planned? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I stay trendy buying only second hand clothes?
What are the best ways to reuse my household waste?
What is premium mediocre - the illusion of luxury?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
Should I take part in Buy Nothing Day?
November is synonymous with Black Friday, great deals but what cost? Over consumption is endangering our already fragile planet. Is it time to change our ways? This week Do You Really Know is highlighting concepts and initiatives about reducing our consumption.
As you most likely know, today - the 25th of November 2022 - is Black Friday, the busiest shopping day of the year. It's an occasion which sees brands and retailers alike offer massive discounts on the last Friday in November. But it’s not to everyone’s taste, especially with growing awareness about the environmental impact that comes from overconsumption. Bear in mind the often-quoted fact that 20% of the world’s population account for 80% of resource consumption.
What’s it all about then? Where does it come from? Has Buy Nothing Day gone international? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How to buy second hand gifts?
How can I stay trendy buying only second hand clothes?
What are the best ways to reuse my household waste?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/25/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
[ANTI-CONSUMERISM] What is degrowth?
November is synonymous with Black Friday, great deals but what cost? Over consumption is endangering our already fragile planet. Is it time to change our ways? This week Do You Really Know is highlighting concepts and initiatives about reducing our consumption.
Degrowth advocates believe that if we continue prioritising economic growth, political, environmental and geopolitical crises will only increase. Degrowth is an alternative to that. It’s a form of opposition to consumerist societies. Degrowth is all about the importance of the collective over the individual, and the importance of planet Earth over the human race.
Where does the term come from? What are the arguments in favour of degrowth? So how do we get started on ‘degrowing’? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I stay trendy buying only second hand clothes?
What are the best ways to reuse my household waste?
What is premium mediocre - the illusion of luxury?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/25/2022 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
How to buy second hand gifts?
November is synonymous with Black Friday, great deals but what cost? Over consumption is endangering our already fragile planet. Is it time to change our ways? This week Do You Really Know is highlighting concepts and initiatives about reducing our consumption.
‘Tis the season to spend, spend, spend! In the lead up to Christmas we are bombarded with adverts trying to make us buy but this year might be time to try a new approach and buy something that is new, well at least to you. Gifting second-hand, or as it is increasingly being termed, ‘pre-loved’ goods was once looked down upon but with the planet drawing in waste it offers an interesting solution and can help mitigate the £42m worth of unwanted Christmas gifts that go into landfill each year.
But how do you find the perfect second-hand gift? What do I need to look out for when buying second hand? What if I don’t have the time to go second hand shopping? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I stay trendy buying only second hand clothes?
What are the best ways to reuse my household waste?
What is premium mediocre - the illusion of luxury?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/24/2022 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
[ANTI-CONSUMERISM] What is the circular economy?
November is synonymous with Black Friday, great deals but what cost? Over consumption is endangering our already fragile planet. Is it time to change our ways? This week Do You Really Know is highlighting concepts and initiatives about reducing our consumption.
The circular economy is an economic system where all resources are continually used and nothing is wasted. Goods and services are produced in such a way that primary resources are preserved as far as possible. European policy aims to support the transition towards a circular economy, but it requires significant change.
Are we saying the circular economy is a kind of economic utopia? Is this transition likely to lead to job losses? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I stay trendy buying only second hand clothes?
What are the best ways to reuse my household waste?
What is premium mediocre - the illusion of luxury?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/24/2022 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
How can I stay trendy buying only second hand clothes?
November is synonymous with Black Friday, great deals but what cost? Over consumption is endangering our already fragile planet. Is it time to change our ways? This week Do You Really Know is highlighting concepts and initiatives about reducing our consumption.
If you thought Britney Spears shaving her head in 2007 marked the end of the flared jeans era, think again. In 2022, youngsters are hunting them down at Urban Outfitters or Shein to match their butterfly patterned diamante crop tops. But they don’t necessarily stop to think that many people already have the items they’re looking for, though they've long been retired to the back of wardrobes.
How can you shop responsibly when fashion trends change all the time? What if I fall in love with a sweater I see in the window at Zara though? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is premium mediocre - the illusion of luxury?
What is Gross National Happiness, a potential alternative to GDP?
Why are my ears ringing?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/23/2022 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
What are the best ways to reuse my household waste?
November is synonymous with Black Friday, great deals but what cost? Over consumption is endangering our already fragile planet. Is it time to change our ways? This week Do You Really Know is highlighting concepts and initiatives about reducing our consumption.
All week long we’ll be discussing anticonsumerist trends as an alternative to Black Friday. Zero waste is a good example of one that has become very popular in recent years. The practice helps reduce consumption of non-recyclables but it’s also plain common sense. Let’s look at some simple ways to recycle waste at home and also save some cash while you’re at it.
What about composting fruits and vegetables? What about food that has already gone bad? What about waste that isn't organic? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is premium mediocre - the illusion of luxury?
What is Gross National Happiness, a potential alternative to GDP?
Why are my ears ringing?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/23/2022 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What is premium mediocre - the illusion of luxury?
November is synonymous with Black Friday, great deals but what cost? Over consumption is endangering our already fragile planet. Is it time to change our ways? This week Do You Really Know is highlighting concepts and initiatives about reducing our consumption.
You might not be able to afford a Balenciaga coat, a Prada bag or a Chanel suit, but you could probably stretch to a branded baseball cap, pair of socks or some other small accessory. According to blogger Venkatesh Rao this is the definition of ‘premium mediocre’ a term he came up with to describe the illusion of luxury without the price tag.
Is premium mediocre just for fashion? What is the problem with premium mediocre? Why do people purchase premium mediocre products? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is Gross National Happiness, a potential alternative to GDP?
Why are my ears ringing?
Why is Elon Musk's Twitter takeover causing concern?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
[ANTI-CONSUMERISM] What is Fast Fashion?
November is synonymous with Black Friday, great deals but what cost? Over consumption is endangering our already fragile planet. Is it time to change our ways? This week Do You Really Know is highlighting concepts and initiatives about reducing our consumption.
Fast fashion is to fashion what fast food is to dining. That is to say a poor-quality imitation, which everybody criticises but still nevertheless consumes! Adopted by many clothing brands, this strategy consists of regularly bringing out new collections and offering low-price items. Customers are therefore encouraged to buy new clothes almost constantly.
This all seems rather bleak, so what can we do? What is the solution, to stop wearing clothes and turn to naturism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is Gross National Happiness, a potential alternative to GDP?
Why are my ears ringing?
Why is Elon Musk's Twitter takeover causing concern?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What is Gross National Happiness, a potential alternative to GDP?
November is synonymous with Black Friday, great deals but what cost? Over consumption is endangering our already fragile planet. Is it time to change our ways? This week Do You Really Know is highlighting concepts and initiatives about reducing our consumption.
When talking about the economy, two terms always seem to come up: consumption and GDP. Consumption is seen as an important data point when measuring a company’s economic health. And if consumption drops, so too does GDP, which stands for gross domestic product. It’s an economic indicator which measures the market value of all goods and services produced in a country over the course of a year.
Where was gross national happiness created? How is Gross National Hapiness measured? Is it used outside of Bhutan? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I beat a hangover?
Why is Qatar paying England fans to promote the word cup?
What is bushcraft, the eco-friendly outdoor hobby?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/21/2022 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
[ANTI-CONSUMERISM] What is greenwashing?
November is synonymous with Black Friday, great deals but what cost? Over consumption is endangering our already fragile planet. Is it time to change our ways? This week Do You Really Know is highlighting concepts and initiatives about reducing our consumption.
Greenwashing is a marketing practice used by corporations to convince consumers that their business is environmentally friendly. Of course the aim is really to sell more products. Consumers may be convinced they are acting in an environmentally responsible way. While in reality brands are often hiding practices that are not at all helpful to the planet.
Where does the term greenwashing come from? How would I know when a company is greenwashing? How can I recognize environmentally friendly products? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I beat a hangover?
Why is Qatar paying England fans to promote the word cup?
What is bushcraft, the eco-friendly outdoor hobby?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/21/2022 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
Why are my ears ringing?
It’s not uncommon to hear ringing, buzzing, humming or hissing sounds that can’t be heard by anyone else. The medical term for these symptoms is tinnitus. The sounds may affect both ears, or just one. If you’re lucky, they’re a temporary or intermittent problem, but for some people they can be more severe, affecting their daily lives.
2019 figures from the British Tinnitus Association suggested that persistent tinnitus affects 1 in 8 people. Occasional ringing in the ears is nothing to worry about. It’s when it lasts for longer than a few minutes that you may wish to consult a GP. Bear in mind that tinnitus itself isn’t actually a disease. The sounds are symptoms of other disorders and health conditions.
Where does it come from? Does it get worse with age? Are there any treatments for permanent tinnitus? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I beat a hangover?
Why is Qatar paying England fans to promote the word cup?
What is bushcraft, the eco-friendly outdoor hobby?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
[RERUN] What is mom shaming?
Just like with body shaming or slut shaming, mom shaming is another example of how women are often subjected to disproportionate criticism, and made to feel guilty about their choices, in this case specifically about parenting methods.
The term refers to how mothers are criticised or even humiliated, for the way they bring up their children and fulfil their role as a mother. Such comments often come from within the family, but it can also be friends, colleagues or total strangers. It might be because of parental choices that don’t match their own, or that don’t match traditional societal norms.
Who would be so judgemental as to make comments like that? What are the consequences of mom shaming? What about dad shaming; is that a thing too? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I beat a hangover?
Why is Qatar paying England fans to promote the word cup?
What is bushcraft, the eco-friendly outdoor hobby?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
Why is Elon Musk's Twitter takeover causing concern?
On 26th October 2022, Elon Musk walked into Twitter’s San Francisco offices carrying a sink. He was there to complete a deal to acquire the company and later tweeted an image along with the corny caption “Entering Twitter HQ; Let that sink in”.
Within two days, the $44bn acquisition was confirmed, following months of speculation. And it’s fair to say that Musk’s first weeks as head of Twitter have been anything but dull, with a number of controversies quickly ensuing. He’s long been an active user of Twitter, and has accrued over 100 million followers. Not only does he use the platform to promote his businesses, he also posts memes and makes outlandish comments.
So what are Musk’s plans for Twitter then? Why is all that causing concern then? How have Twitter users reacted? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I beat a hangover?
Why is Qatar paying England fans to promote the word cup?
What is bushcraft, the eco-friendly outdoor hobby?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
How can I beat a hangover?
If you drink alcohol, the chances are at some point you’ve had to deal with a nasty hangover, due to drinking too much. The associated headache, nausea, fatigue and other symptoms can make it a real challenge to get through the day after a night out.
There’s actually a scientific term for the unpleasant symptoms that come with a hangover; it’s veisalgia. According to Ted.com, between 3 and 23% of people actually don’t get hangovers at all. You can count yourself extremely lucky if you’re one of those people, although being prone to hangovers may be a blessing in disguise.
Why does the consumption of alcohol lead to such symptoms? Is drinking water effective at reducing hangover symptoms? What should I eat when hungover? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is Qatar paying England fans to promote the word cup?
What is bushcraft, the eco-friendly outdoor hobby?
Can the COP27 summit really help save the planet?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/18/2022 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
Why is Qatar paying England fans to promote the word cup?
Surely it’s every football fan's dream to watch the world cup live and support their team. Imagine then being offered free tickets, accommodation and even a daily allowance to do so. For some fans heading to Qatar this November that is exactly what has happened.
But like all deals that look too good to be true, here too, there is a catch. Paid fans will be expected to be ambassadors for the tournament if they are picked to be a fan leader. Fan leaders, as they are being called, will be invited to the opening ceremony on the 20th of November and will take part in a filmed five-minute, fan-themed section before the match starts.
What does being a fan leader mean? Why is Qatar offering this? What is controversial about this program? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is bushcraft, the eco-friendly outdoor hobby?
Can the COP27 summit really help save the planet?
Is putting on less heating a way to save money and be healthier?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/17/2022 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
[RERUN] Why are there so many spin offs in the world of cinema?
The world of cinema is full of films and sagas which leave their mark on a generation, sometimes becoming cult films. And another phenomenon is becoming more and more common: that of the spin off.
Spin-off films involve the creation of a new work based on the original, focusing on the story of a secondary character. There are a number of reasons why directors and screenwriters have chosen to carry out such projects. In the last few years, cinema has been met with strong competition from the world of series, so the need to stay competitve is high.
Why are they so important for cinematic works? What are some examples? Why do fans love them so much? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is putting on less heating a way to save money and be healthier?
What is a migraine?
Can you get rid of cellulite?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/17/2022 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
What is bushcraft, the eco-friendly outdoor hobby?
Also known as woodcraft, bushcraft culture is somewhere between a hobby and a philosophy. It’s a minimalist approach to surviving in nature, without disturbing it. It’s the use and practice of certain skills in a natural environment, like a forest.
Many bushcraft skills were common throughout the history of humanity, but aren’t so necessary in the towns and cities where most people live in this day and age. Nevertheless, the practice of bushcraft has become more and more popular as a hobby, with many youtube videos appearing online and taking up entire shelves in bookstores. The term bushcraft is believed to date back to the 19th century, with the “bush” being a commonly used term for a remote area of wild country, like a woodland.
Where does it come from? What kind of techniques are we talking about then? Is there really any point knowing all that stuff? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is putting on less heating a way to save money and be healthier?
What is a migraine?
Can you get rid of cellulite?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
Can the COP27 summit really help save the planet?
The year’s biggest climate event is underway, with a number of challenges making it difficult for countries to deal with ever-increasing global warming. 2022 has seen a number of severe weather disasters, and issues like energy costs, food insecurity and debt aren’t making things easier.
What’s more, there’s tension in the air as Egypt hosts COP 27. The 2022 edition of the UN’s climate summit brings together 110 world leaders, from the 6th to 18th of November 2022. This year is a crucial moment in the struggle against climate change. The main challenge is to stick to the limits set by the Paris Agreements. Signed in 2015 by 196 countries, they state that global warming mustn’t go over 1.5°C by 2050.
Are the tensions due to the war in Ukraine? What’s meant by loss and damage? Can COP 27 really make a difference? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is putting on less heating a way to save money and be healthier?
What is a migraine?
Can you get rid of cellulite?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
Is putting on less heating a way to save money and be healthier?
The average British household usually puts on their central heating by October 24, according to British Gas. But this year, thanks to soaring energy costs, and a mild winter it may well be later. Turning down your heating can have real savings.
The Energy Saving Trust calculates that turning your thermostat down from 20c to 19c should cut your energy bill by around 10 per cent. But as well as saving money there are possible health benefits. According to a study carried out by the Garvan Institute of Medical Research in Australia spending time in an environment at 19° increases your ‘brown fat’. This is unlike normal fat, because it is packed with mitochondria which act like mini power stations, turning food into energy.
What are the health benefits? Should we go lower than 19°? Should anyone not turn down the temperature? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Can you get rid of cellulite?
Do you know about home design maximalism?
What is toxic positivity?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
[RERUN] What is a migraine?
These pulsing headaches are known for affecting quality of life in a high number of people. They’re one of the most common disorders in the world, with the WHO suggesting at least 1 in 7 people have migraines across the world.
If you’re lucky enough not to get migraines, don't underestimate how debilitating they can be for some people. They’re far from being simple headaches. Migraine symptoms can last for between 3 hours and several days. There's intense pain on one side of the head or just above the eye. Migraine pain is often described as pulsating, throbbing or pounding.
What's the difference then? How are migraines treated? Are there any options which don’t involve taking medication? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Can you get rid of cellulite?
Do you know about home design maximalism?
What is toxic positivity?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 1 second
Can you get rid of cellulite?
Cellulite is a regular source of insecurity among women. That’s been especially true since women’s magazines came along, pretty much labelling it public enemy number one. In our collective minds, it’s become inextricably linked to being overweight or having gone through pregnancy.
In reality, cellulite is the result of a number of factors, and hormonal changes in particular. The first thing to know is that there are actually three types of cellulite: aqueous cellulite which is flexible and slightly visible; adipose cellulite, which is soft and limited to a certain part of the body, and fibrous cellulite, which is hard and painful to the touch, sometimes coming with a purplish-blue colour.
What do those three types have in common? Can cellulite have negative health consequences? So what techniques are out there for getting rid of cellulite? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the best way to soothe a crying baby?
What is the Suez Canal?
Who are the main victims of natural disasters?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
Do you know about home design maximalism?
In past episodes of Do You Really Know, we’ve talked about a number of Scandinavian lifestyle trends, like death cleaning and hygge for example. Both of those are inspired by similar sentiments; to do with feeling good in surroundings that aren’t overflowing with useless items.
And yet, in recent months, we’ve been hearing more and more about a home decor trend that’s the complete opposite. Maximalism is making a comeback! The signs have been there at furniture shows, such as the 2022 Milan Furniture Fair where Dimore Studio displayed a maximalist interior that got a lot of attention. Of course, influencers have been sharing pictures and videos of their interiors on social media too.
Where does this desire for maximalism come from? How can I bring maximalism into my home then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the best way to soothe a crying baby?
What is the Suez Canal?
Who are the main victims of natural disasters?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/13/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
[RERUN] What is toxic positivity?
“Good vibes only”, “Everything happens for a reason”, “When life gives you lemons..." You’ve almost certainly been told these mantras at some point in your life, whether in a professional or personal context.
Toxic positivity is a belief that people should maintain a positive mindset no matter how difficult their situation is. Though they might seem comforting and well-intentioned, experts have suggested forcing positivity may actually do more harm than good to a person facing a difficult situation.
Why doesn't this kind of positivity work? What can you do to avoid toxic positivity? How can you express negative feelings? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the best way to soothe a crying baby?
What is the Suez Canal?
Who are the main victims of natural disasters?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/13/2022 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
Is Li-Fi set to replace Wi-Fi?
To this day, consumption of wireless data just keeps on growing as we use the internet more and more every year. Now it might be difficult to comprehend but we could eventually get to a point where WiFi simply can’t cope with that ever-growing demand for data.
The radio-frequency space that wifi relies on is gradually getting saturated, which could lead to something called spectrum crunch. That would lead to slower connection speeds, which just won’t do for today’s constantly online generation. So at some point in the future, we’ll most likely need to phase out WifI. Enter Li-FI, or Light Fidelity to give it its full name.
How does it work then? What are the advantages of Li-Fi? So, when will it be ready for me to install at home? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the best way to soothe a crying baby?
What is the Suez Canal?
Who are the main victims of natural disasters?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/12/2022 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
Why do we hiccup?
Of all the involuntary spasms the human body has, hiccuping is one of the most peculiar. Sure, it’s funny at first, and in particular if it’s happening to someone else rather than you. But it quickly gets annoying if it doesn’t go away!
There are two things to note when you have the hiccups. First, your respiratory muscles, and the diaphragm in particular, contract suddenly and push out air from within our lungs. Secondly, the epiglottis has a role to play. It can be found in the throat, and contracts, stopping air from entering. That’s what causes the vocal cords to vibrate, creating the distinctive hiccuping sound.
What’s the best way to avoid getting hiccups? How long can a bout of hiccuping last? What about all the home remedies you hear about for hiccuping? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the best way to soothe a crying baby?
What is the Suez Canal?
Who are the main victims of natural disasters?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/11/2022 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
What is the best way to soothe a crying baby?
Getting babies to sleep is big business, and a major source of stress for parents. There are many theories and methods: rock them, sing, let them cry it out. But now science has come to the rescue and we can finally put this question to bed. Hopefully.
According to a study published in September 2022 in Current Biology, “approximately 20%–30% of infants cry excessively and exhibit sleep difficulties for no apparent reason” which of course can be exhausting for most people but can become more serious in some cases. As the study points out, it causes “parental stress and even triggering impulsive child maltreatment in a small number of cases.” So finding a way to sooth babies is important.
What did the scientists discover? How did they come to these conclusions? So how do you get the baby to sleep? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who are the main victims of natural disasters?
What is Ulysses Syndrome?
What is the Koh-i-noor diamond and why is it causing so many problems for the Queen consort?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/10/2022 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Suez Canal?
The Suez Canal is 120 miles long, with 12% of global trade passing through. It is over 200 metres wide and 23 metres deep. It connects the Red Sea and Mediterranean Sea, starting at Port Said and ending at Suez Port.
It’s by far the most direct shipping route between Asia and Europe. Prior to its existence, vessels had to travel around the south of Africa. 19,000 ships passed through the waterway in 2020, according to the Suez Canal Authority. Construction began back in 1859, when Egypt was under colonial rule of France and Great Britain. At the time, the whole process created tensions between the two empires.
Why is the Suez Canal so important? When was the Suez Canal built? Who does the canal actually belong to? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the Karpman drama triangle?
Is cracking my knuckles bad for me?
What is Ikigai?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/10/2022 • 4 minutes, 55 seconds
Who are the main victims of natural disasters?
Natural disasters lead to damaged property, loss of life, psychological trauma, displaced individuals and families, among other consequences. According to the World Meteorological Organisation, the number of natural disasters has increased five times since 1970.
Researchers from all over the whole world have dedicated their careers to studying natural disasters. And they all agree on one thing. The poorer people are, the more likely they are to suffer the consequences. There’s a bitter irony to the fact that countries that have contributed the least to climate change are being hit the hardest by climate-related events.
Are there any figures to back that up? Are there differences within a single country? What about other forms of inequality? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the Koh-i-noor diamond and why is it causing so many problems for the Queen consort?
What is Truth Social?
What is the Karpman drama triangle?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
What is Ulysses Syndrome?
You may remember hearing about ancient Greek hero Ulysses in school lessons. He’s the central character in Homer’s Odyssey. As legend goes, after fighting for a decade in the Trojan war, Ulysses wandered the world for another 10 years to get back home to his wife and son.
On his enforced travels, Ulysses suffered danger, adversity and loneliness throughout. Spanish psychiatrist Joseba Achotegui saw similarities in the plight of modern-day migrants. In 2003, he came up with the term ‘Ulysses Syndrome’, to describe the negative feelings that such scenarios can bring on. These ordinary people often have no choice but to behave like heroes.
What type of people are affected by Ulysses Syndrome? How is migration linked to Ulysses Syndrome? What are the symptoms of Ulysses Syndrome? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the Koh-i-noor diamond and why is it causing so many problems for the Queen consort?
What is Truth Social?
What is the Karpman drama triangle?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 55 seconds
What is the Koh-i-noor diamond and why is it causing so many problems for the Queen consort?
The Koh-i-noor is a diamond set in the crown which was made especially for the Queen mother’s coronation in 1937. It would traditionally be worn by Camilla, the new Queen consort, on the coronation of King Charles on the 6th of May 2023.
However, the diamond, or rather how the diamond came to be gleaming out from a British crown is steeped in controversy. A spokesman for the Indian prime minister said: “The coronation of Camilla and the use of the Koh-i-Noor brings back painful memories of the colonial past.” Over the centuries the diamond has passed through Moghul, Persian and Afghan hands and is supposedly even cursed as so many people have died trying to get their hands on it.
What is the diamond's history? How did the diamond come to be in Britain? What will Camilla do? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the Karpman drama triangle?
Is cracking my knuckles bad for me?
What is Ikigai?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/8/2022 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
[RERUN] What is Truth Social?
The US midterm elections are held this Tuesday, 8th of November 2022. There have been many reports of political misinformation on social media in what's looking to be a contenious election. Listen to our rerun episode about Truth Social, the social media created by former president Donald Trump.
On February 22nd, Trump Media & Technology Group launched its own social network called Truth Social, with the platform having first been announced in October 2021. Former US president Donald Trump is hoping it will be a springboard for his 2024 election campaign. Back in January 2021 when Donald Trump, his tenure as US President coming to an end, was handed lifetime bans from both Twitter and Facebook.
Why did Trump launch his own social network? Is Truth Social really an open platform for users to say what they want, without having their views suppressed? How successful has the Truth Social launch been so far? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the Karpman drama triangle?
Is cracking my knuckles bad for me?
What is Ikigai?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/8/2022 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What is the Karpman drama triangle?
American psychiatrist Stephen B. Karpman coined this social model of human interaction in 1968. It describes the roles that we take on in unbalanced social relations. Relations which lead us to take one of three roles within Karpman’s triangle.
These are three roles in Karpman's triangle. These are the victim, the persecutor and the saviour. And the role we take on unconsciously leads someone else to take on one of the others. Let’s take the role of the victim. If I consider myself as a victim, I’m going to tend to blame my hardships on a persecutor, who I consider responsible for my misfortune or pain.
What are the roles in the Karpman triangle then? What’s the point of this whole theory? How does one escape from this infuriating triangle then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What can we expect from Lula’s presidency in Brazil?
How did Guy Fawkes become more than just a bonfire effigy?
What is sapiosexuality?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
Is cracking my knuckles bad for me?
If you’re asking yourself whether cracking your knuckles is a bad thing, we'll take it as a given that you do crack your knuckles. You’ve probably also been told at some point that doing so will give you arthritis, most likely by someone already annoyed at you doing it!
So, just how seriously should you be taking the know-it-alls? As you’re probably aware, many people find the noise pretty off-putting, or just downright annoying. But many people say they get a physical release from cracking their joints, leading to a feeling of looseness and a brief increase in mobility. Although a lot of the time, it’s simply an unconscious habit.
Why is knuckle cracking so satisfying? Where does the noise come from? Is it harmful in the long run? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What can we expect from Lula’s presidency in Brazil?
How did Guy Fawks become more than just a bonfire effigy?
What is sapiosexuality?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
[RERUN] What is Ikigai?
The Japanese concept of Ikigai roughly translates as “reason for being”, like . The “Iki” part means life, while “gai” refers to value or worth. So it effectively means finding a purpose to life and the things we spend our time doing.
This philosophy dates back to the 12th century, but has been gaining in popularity among Westerners in recent years. That’s in particular thanks to the 2017 release of Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life, a book by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles. It includes the top ten key rules of Ikigai, based on a case study of residents from the village of Ogimi in Okinawa.
Where does Ikigai come from? Does this mean Ikigai is the secret to a long and meaningful life? How can I apply Ikigai to my own life? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What does the future hold for the Amazon rainforest?
Why are Just Stop Oil activists targeting works of art?
Could you be genetically immune to Covid?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
Why am I experiencing deja vu?
The strange experience of deja vu sometimes lasts just a matter of milliseconds. Nonetheless it can still catch you off guard and be pretty unsettling. Deja vu means “already seen” in French.
It refers to the sense of having already seen or experienced something you’re confronted with, even though you know that you have never actually seen it before. For example, you visit a new city for the first time in your life, but at a precise moment you get the feeling like you’ve walked down a certain street in the past. According to Psychology Today, it occurs in 60 - 70% of people from time to time, while research suggests more than 97% of us have experienced it at least once in our lives.
Has it always existed? Have scientific studies been able to shed any light on it? Can deja vu be dangerous? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What can we expect from Lula’s presidency in Brazil?
How did Guy Fawks become more than just a bonfire effigy?
What is sapiosexuality?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/5/2022 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What can we expect from Lula’s presidency in Brazil?
Following a bitter and highly divisive campaign, marked by fake news and attacks between the two leading candidates, Brazil has a new president. Well, maybe “new” isn’t exactly the right word. Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva already served two terms as president from 2003 to 2010.
Now the man once referred to as “the most popular politician in the world” by Barack Obama has made a sensational comeback, more than a decade later. And a lot has happened in the intervening time, with Lula repeatedly facing accusations of corruption, which led to him serving an 18-month stint in prison before being exonerated in 2019.
What is Lula’s background? Is he a controversial figure in Brazil? What will be his main priorities as President of Brazil? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How did Guy Fawks become more than just a bonfire effigy?
What is sapiosexuality?
What does the future hold for the Amazon rainforest?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
How did Guy Fawkes become more than just a bonfire effigy?
Remember, remember the 5th of November. Gunpowder treason and plot. On the 5th November there are fireworks displays all over England. In some places they still have a bonfire and will burn a guy on it. Listen to our episode to find out who this guy represents.
This is an effigy of a human named after Guy Fawkes who, in the early hours of the 5th of November 1605, was arrested for the Gunpowder Plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament. The gunpowder plotters were a group of Catholics and they wanted a Catholic monarchy to be restored, or at least a monarch who was tolerant of Catholicism. They planned to blow up the Houses of Parliament which meant they would have blown up the King, the judiciary and the clergy. But Guy Fawkes was caught red handed installing the gunpowder before this could happen.
What happened on the 5th of November 1605? What was the political context around the Gunpowder plot? Why is only Guy Fawkes remembered? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What does the future hold for the Amazon rainforest?
Why are Just Stop Oil activists targeting works of art?
Could you be genetically immune to Covid?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/3/2022 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
[RERUN] What is sapiosexuality?
What are you most attracted to when looking for someone to date? Social status? A sense of humour? Good looks? Those are all positive traits for sure, but for sapioseuxals there’s one quality which trumps all others, and that’s intelligence.
The word comes from the Latin word “sapien”, which means wise. Sapiosexuals don’t fall in love at first sight or even through an emotional spark. Rather, they seduce one another through long and complex discussions. Their partners may well have a successful career and financial stability too, but it’s the intelligence which really counts most. The brain has to be stimulated on an intellectual level before a sapiosexual would even consider the thought of physical intimacy.
It’s nothing new being attracted to someone who’s intelligent, is it? Is sapiosexuality a sexual orientation in its own right? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What does the future hold for the Amazon rainforest?
Why are Just Stop Oil activists targeting works of art?
Could you be genetically immune to Covid?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/3/2022 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
What does the future hold for the Amazon rainforest?
It’s been two years since we last discussed the Amazon on Do You Really Know, and even in that time, the outlook for the world’s largest tropical rainforest has worsened significantly. A report called “Amazonia against the Clock” was released in September, warning that the rainforest could reach a point of no return as soon as 2025.
A study published in Nature Climate Change journal in March 2022 explained that three quarters of the Amazon has lost some of its resilience since the turn of the century. That means it’s recovering more slowly from events like droughts and fires affecting it. This is largely down to less water evaporating from leaves within the forest, which in turn means less rain. The more deforestation there is, the more the problem is exacerbated; it’s a vicious circle.
What are the possible consequences? Has the destruction of the Amazon worsened in recent years? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do we celebrate Halloween?
Why do we change clocks twice per year?
What is ghosting?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
Why are Just Stop Oil activists targeting works of art?
Picture this. You’re in a fine art museum, admiring some of the greatest masterpieces of all time, and all of a sudden someone throws a can of soup over one of them. Sounds pretty surreal, right? Well that’s exactly the scene that visitors to London’s National Gallery found themselves confronted with on 14th October 2022.
So what happened? Two young women threw tomato soup over Van Gogh’s Sunflowers and then each glued a hand to the wall behind the painting. One of them then started addressing onlookers with the words: “What is worth more, art or life?”. As it turned out, the pair were members of an environmental activist group called “Just Stop Oil”.
When was Just Stop Oil created and what are their aims? So why are they targeting works of art then? How have the public reacted to Just Stop Oil’s campaigns? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do we celebrate Halloween?
Why do we change clocks twice per year?
What is ghosting?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
Could you be genetically immune to Covid?
Covid has swept the globe sparing very few, in fact some people have had covid multiple times. But then there are some lucky people who have never had it even if they work or live with infected people. According to research from the University of Oxford and University of California, this might be due to a particular gene mutation that effectively makes them immune. Well, sort of.
It is a bit more complicated than being genetically immune to Covid. At first scientists believed some people might be completely resistant to Covid, like the ‘superdogers’ people who are immune to other viruses like HIV and no matter how much they are exposed to it, they will never catch it. Although scientists have found that it is a bit different with Covid.
Does this mean a Covid-immune person can’t ever catch covid? Why does their immune system work like that? What does this mean for the rest of us? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do we celebrate Halloween?
Why do we change clocks twice per year?
What is ghosting?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/1/2022 • 4 minutes, 1 second
[RERUN] What are puff bars?
Health professionals have warned against the dangers of puff bars on younger consumers for some time now. This recent phenomenon has become massively popular with young people, and especially on TikTok. Puff bars, also known as vape pens or pod mods, are flavoured electronic cigarettes designed for one-time use.
Social networks have been flooded with puff bars of all different colours. From far away, their eye-catching design actually makes them look like sweets, which could be seen as a sneaky marketing move to target teenagers. They don’t contain tobacco and generally come in sweet and fruity flavours, such as wild berries, coconut, grapes, mango, mint or pineapple. On TikTok, users even have fun ranking the best varieties.
Do they taste like regular cigarettes? How did this trend start? Are they as bad for you as regular cigarettes? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do we celebrate Halloween?
Why do we change clocks twice per year?
What is ghosting?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/1/2022 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
Why do we celebrate Halloween?
Halloween is here and if you’re anything like us, you’ll be frantically doing some last-minute pumpkin carving or stocking up on sweets for trick-or-treaters. Maybe you’re going to a Halloween party dressed up as a ghost, witch or any other kind of spooky creature. But have you ever wondered where all these quirky customs came from?
While Halloween seems like a very modern celebration, its origins actually go back well over 1000 years. It started out with an ancient Celtic festival called Samhain (Sow-in). As you may know, the Celts lived in the area that is now Ireland, the UK and the north of France. They would celebrate their new year on 1st November, a night on which they believed the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead became blurred, with the ghosts of the dead returning to earth.
Who were the first people to come up with the idea then? What about trick-or-treating and some of the other modern customs, where do they come from? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is my circadian rhythm so important?
Why do we enjoy being scared?
What is an oil shock?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/31/2022 • 3 minutes, 54 seconds
Why do we change clocks twice per year?
“Spring forward, fall back” goes the saying; that’s right - today, Sunday the 30th of October 2022, saw the clocks go back an hour, meaning it gets dark earlier all of a sudden and winter is on its way!
If there’s one day, or rather two days, of the year where you don’t want to schedule any important appointments, it’s on a day when the clock changes. Forgetting the time change is something that’s happened to all of us at least once in our lifetimes. Changing our clocks is so ingrained into our culture that we never really call it into question. But it has actually become a subject of debate in recent years, with some people even saying we should do away with the whole idea.
Who first came up with the idea then? What’s the point of it all? Why is it a subject of debate then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is my circadian rhythm so important?
Why do we enjoy being scared?
What is an oil shock?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
[RERUN] What is ghosting?
With Halloween right around the corner, find out about the not-so-spooky internet behavior we all hate: ghosting. Listen to our rerun episode!
Ghosting is a modern slang term for ceasing all communication without any warning or explanation. It’s likely happened to you in the past at some point, and you may well have ghosted someone yourself! The term was first added to dating jargon in the 2000s, and has become more common with the rise of social media, online dating and casual hookup services. A survey by Elle.com found that half of all men and women had ghosted someone at least once in the past. Meanwhile, only 23% of women and 36% of men had never experienced ghosting in any capacity, either as the ghost or the ghostee.
When did ghosting come about? Why do people ghost? Are there any other alternatives to ghosting? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the great unretirement?
What is K-Pop?
Am I fexting in my relationships like the Bidens?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
What is sad nipple syndrome?
The nipples are an erogenous zone for many people. But as it turns out, having them touched can bring on a whole other kind of feeling for others. The so-called sad nipple syndrome has been discussed more openly on Reddit and Tiktok in the last few years, raising awareness. But it still remains somewhat of a mystery.
It refers to a wave of negative emotions on a person when their nipples are touched, or come into contact with clothing that’s too tight. It seems to be more common in women, but there have been cases of men being affected too. A wide range of emotions have been noted: deep sadness, jealousy, nostalgia or irritability, to name a few.
What kind of negative emotions are we talking about? Is there a scientific explanation behind sad nipple syndrome? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is my circadian rhythm so important?
Why do we enjoy being scared?
What is an oil shock?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/29/2022 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
Why is my circadian rhythm so important?
You’ve no doubt heard references to the existence of body clocks, and it’s no surprise because all of our bodily functions are regulated by the circadian system. To put it simply, our circadian rhythms optimise bodily functions. In this episode, we explain why it is important.
They are managed by a master clock known as the circadian pacemaker which is formed of around 20,000 neurons. It’s situated in the brain, more specifically in the hypothalamus. The sleep-wake cycle is an obvious example of a circadian rhythm. But these cycles help many other systems to function too, like hunger, organ activity, memory consolidation and pain perception. The word “circadian” actually comes from the Latin “circa diem”, meaning “around a day”.
What are the dangers of a disrupted circadian rhythm? What’s the best way to stop circadian rhythms from getting disrupted? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do we enjoy being scared?
What is an oil shock?
What is King Charles’ role in the Church of England?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
Why do we enjoy being scared?
Ghost stories told around a camp fire, visiting a haunted house or watching a scary film are all common Halloween activities. We clearly enjoy scaring each-other and feeling scared, even though it seems completely counter intuitive. There are a number of reasons for this, which we'll explore in the episode.
Fear is an emotional response to danger, both real or perceived. Our body releases a mixture of adrenaline and cortisol and triggers our ‘fight, flight or freeze’ response. It makes us more alert, speeds up our heart rate and increases our blood pressure. We breathe faster, delivering more oxygen to the brain, and our glucose levels spike, giving us an energy boost so we are ready to act or react.
How does fear affect us physically? Is feeling relief the only reason we like to feel scared? Can you have too much of a good thing? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is King Charles’ role in the Church of England?
Should I be worried about my diarrhea?
What is the great unretirement?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/27/2022 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
[RERUN] What is an oil shock?
The energy crisis is still going on in all of Europe. The price of oil and gas is worrying governments as the cold winter months get closer. In this episode, we delve into the history of energy and explain what an oil shock is.
For over a century, oil has been both a fuel and a barometer for the world economy. But it can also be a double-edged sword as Western countries found out in the 1970s. At the start of the 1970s, the post-war boom was coming to an end. From 1971 onwards, things started going downhill, and oil ended up being at the heart of an unprecedented economic and geopolitical crisis. When we talk about an oil shock, like the events of 1973, we’re describing a dramatic rise in oil prices. Such scenarios have a negative impact on global economic growth.
How did the 1973 crisis come around? How did the oil-dependent Western countries react? What is the current situation, given Russia’s invasion of Ukraine? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the great unretirement?
What is K-Pop?
Am I fexting in my relationships like the Bidens?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/27/2022 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
What is King Charles’ role in the Church of England?
Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, her son Prince Charles became King at the age of 73. He inherited the many titles that his mother carried throughout her 70-year reign, one of which is the “Defender of the Faith”. That refers to his role as the supreme governor of the Church of England.
In 2009, the Church of England stated it had over 26 million baptised members accounting for nearly half of the population of England. It is also the mother church of the international Anglican Communion which is present around the world, particularly in Commonwealth countries like Canada, Australia and South Africa. The British monarch’s role as Defender of the Faith is mostly symbolic; in practice he has limited powers.
What is the monarch's role as head of the Church of England? How was the Church of England born? What is the Church of England religion like? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the great unretirement?
What is K-Pop?
Am I fexting in my relationships like the Bidens?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
Should I be worried about my diarrhea?
Diarrhea is a common ailment that affects many of us, from time to time. While it’s often the subject of off-colour jokes, in reality it’s the number two cause of death in children under five years old, after pneumonia. It accounts for over 500,000 child deaths each year according to the World Health Organisation, making it a major public health issue.
The majority of these cases are recorded in the developing world, due to a lack of safe drinking water. That isn’t so likely to be a problem in the Western world, but still, if your diarrhea lasts longer than a few days, or you notice certain unusual symptoms, then it might actually be a sign of a more serious health problem, so you’ll want to get it checked out.
What exactly is diarrhea? So where does diarrhea actually come from? How can I identify the cause of my diarrhea? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the great unretirement?
What is K-Pop?
Am I fexting in my relationships like the Bidens?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
What is the great unretirement?
The great un-retirement is a term that has been coined to explain the fact that people are working longer or even coming out of retirement completely to return to work. Find out why this is happening in this episode.
In a poll by Rest Less, a digital community that supports the over-50s, 32% of members said they would consider returning to work or that they were already working again. And statistics back this up. The Office for National Statistics reports that there are now more people aged 50 and older in work or looking for work than before the pandemic, while figures from the Centre for Ageing Better show that the number of people aged 65 or over entering the workforce rose by 173,000 in the first quarter of 2022.
Why are so many people coming out of retirement? What problems do older people face when looking for a job? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Am I fexting in my relationships like the Bidens?
What is Neom, Saudi Arabia’s futuristic city project?
What is the interspecies internet?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/25/2022 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
[RERUN] What is K-Pop?
The K-Pop band BTS made headlines recently: its members are due to enroll in South Korea's mandatory military service. Listen to our rerun episode to learn more about K-Pop and its origins.
K-Pop is a form of pop music originating in South Korea. You've probably heard songs from the famous K-Pop boy band, BTS. With their flashy looks and extravagant hairstyles, the members of BTS, also known as the Bangtan Boys, are a global music phenomenon. Particularly popular among teenagers, the group’s single “Dynamite” reached 350 million views on Youtube in under a month.
When did K-Pop come about? What makes K-pop so successful? How do you explain its commercial success? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Am I fexting in my relationships like the Bidens?
What is Neom, Saudi Arabia’s futuristic city project?
What is the interspecies internet?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/25/2022 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
Am I fexting in my relationships like the Bidens?
Interviewed by Harper's Bazaar in June 2022, US First Lady Jill Biden admitted to arguing over text with her husband. She said it’s been a good way for them to settle disagreements, away from the ears of secret service agents and everyone around them.
Arguing by text is also known as fexting, which is a contraction of fighting and texting. Of course, it isn’t only the President and his wife who fext. In a day and age where we practically live on our phones, many couples resort to fexting in their relationships.
Why do people fext? Is fexting a good idea? What are the risks of fexting? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I tell if I’m at risk of ‘quiet firing’?
Can jellyfish offer the key to immortality?
What is quantum technology?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/24/2022 • 3 minutes, 53 seconds
What is Neom, Saudi Arabia’s futuristic city project?
On 4th October 2022, Saudi Arabia was named as host country for the 2029 Asian Winter Games. The event takes place every four years, bringing together 10,000 athletes from all across the continent.
The 2029 event will take place at the Trojena resort within the futuristic city of Neom, which is being developed in the middle of the desert. The name is a contraction of neo, which means new in Greek, and mostaqbal, which means future in Arabic. The Neom project was launched in 2017 by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman himself, who also recently took over the role of prime minister from his father King Salman. It’s been grabbing attention for some time now, with development works expected to cost close to £450bn and reach completion by 2026.
How can winter games be organised in the middle of the desert? Why is this project controversial? Where exactly will Neom be located in Saudi Arabia? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I tell if I’m at risk of ‘quiet firing’?
Can jellyfish offer the key to immortality?
What is quantum technology?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/23/2022 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
[TECH WEEK] What is the interspecies internet?
This week on Do You Really Know?, we're all about tech. In constant evolution, digital technologies are shaping the world we live in today and are revolutionising our daily lives. To learn more about this, listen to our rerun episodes about tech!
We all know how the internet links people between each other and devices between each other. Well, that’s not the end of it, as these days researchers are working on further internet developments which won’t only link machines, human beings and objects, but also animals. That’s right, we’re talking about an interspecies internet.
What does the interspecies internet actually refer to? Isn't it a bit utopian and far fetched? How would it work technically speaking though? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I tell if I’m at risk of ‘quiet firing’?
Can jellyfish offer the key to immortality?
What is quantum technology?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/23/2022 • 5 minutes, 3 seconds
Why is Russia on the UN Security Council?
In early October 2022, Russia used its veto power to prevent the UN Security Council from collectively condemning its annexation of four Ukrainian regions. And it’s not the first time that the country has used its permanent member status to veto a motion this year.
The UN Security Council is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations, and it’s responsible for ensuring international peace and security. To do so, the council uses diplomatic negotiation, although it can also authorize sanctions, and even the use of force. That happened during the Gulf War in 1990 for example, when a coalition of forces from 34 countries collaborated to defeat Iraq after its invasion of Kuwait.
What is the Security Council? And why is Russia one of the five permanent members? Is the UN Security Council still relevant and useful to this day? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Can jellyfish offer the key to immortality?
What is quantum technology?
How can I manage my chronic pain?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
How can I tell if I’m at risk of ‘quiet firing’?
Just a month or so ago we were talking about quiet quitting on Do You Really Know?. In the episode, we are talking about another modern workplace reality: quiet firing.
Whereas quiet quitting is all about employees sticking to doing the bare minimum, quiet firing is kind of the opposite. It’s when an employer nudges an employee towards the exit door, either subtly or not so subtly. It isn’t always easy to detect, but there are some signs suggesting that you might be a target of quiet firing.
What should I be looking out for then? Isn’t quiet firing illegal? What should I do if I feel like I’m being targeted? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Can jellyfish offer the key to immortality?
What is quantum technology?
How can I manage my chronic pain?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/21/2022 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
Can jellyfish offer the key to immortality?
Throughout history people have been keen to find the answer to immortality. It's now commonly accepted that eternal life is not possible. Yet, somewhere deep in the ocean, a tiny fingernail-sized creature nicknamed the “immortal jellyfish” might be able to cast new light on the human aging process.
A new study published in August 2022 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences shows the results from a team of researchers who have mapped the jellyfish’s genetic code to find the secret to its immortality. They found that the immortal jellyfish has twice more copies of genes associated with DNA repair and protection than a regular jellyfish. They can produce greater amounts of protective and restorative proteins.
Why is the "immortal jellyfish" immortal? Will humans be able to regenerate like jellyfish? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I manage my chronic pain?
What is the European Political Community, the continent’s new intergovernmental organization?
What is Fintech?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
[TECH WEEK] What is quantum technology?
This week on Do You Really Know?, we're all about tech. In constant evolution, digital technologies are shaping the world we live in today and are revolutionising our daily lives. To learn more about this, listen to our rerun episodes about tech!
Quantum technologies are tools which use the physical properties of tiny particles like ions or photons. It might seem abstract, but these technological breakthroughs look set to be a game-changer in computing and communications.
Are quantum technologies totally new? How does quantum computing actually work? Can we all expect to be using quantum technologies soon? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I manage my chronic pain?
What is the European Political Community, the continent’s new intergovernmental organization?
What is Fintech?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
How can I manage my chronic pain?
Chronic pain is pain that lasts for an extended period of time, usually 12 weeks or more, despite medication or treatment. A study carried out by Ipsos on behalf of BBC news in March 2022 showed that 26% of adults living in the UK are suffering from chronic pain.
Chronic pain is a condition in its own right, which often remains hidden and misunderstood. It can last for several years, and can impact daily life and overall quality of life. It’s also often stigmatized, in particular in young people and when the underlying cause can’t be identified. Many people confuse chronic pain with acute pain, which actually goes away once the body heals, like with a broken bone or torn muscle.
What are some examples of chronic pain? What can be done to manage chronic pain? Can chronic pain be cured? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is Fintech?
What is an inclusive Barbie?
What is queerbaiting, the marketing technique Harry Styles is accused of using?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
What is the European Political Community, the continent’s new intergovernmental organization?
The European Political Community was launched in 2022 to discuss the future of Europe, mainly in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron first suggested the EPC’s creation in a speech to the European Parliament back in early May. Less than six months later, the first summit was held in Prague.
Despite initially opposed to the creation of the EPC back in June as Foreign Secretary, Liz Truss was in attendance in Prague. It’s thought she still remains somewhat skeptical, she made it clear she doesn’t want the new organisation to “cut across” NATO and the G7. Regardless, the UK will host the fourth EPC meeting in early 2024, after Moldova and Spain take their turn.
Why was the European Political Community created? How come the UK got invited to an EU forum? What happened in the first EPC meeting? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is Fintech?
What is an inclusive Barbie?
What is queerbaiting, the marketing technique Harry Styles is accused of using?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
[TECH WEEK] What is Fintech?
This week on Do You Really Know?, we're all about tech. In constant evolution, digital technologies are shaping the world we live in today and are revolutionising our daily lives. To learn more about this, listen to our rerun episodes about tech!
Fintech is an abbreviation of “financial technology.” It’s a new business sector which began developing during the 2010s. Fintech companies put technology to the service of financial activity. This means finance can now be handled from the palm of our hands.
What’s does Fintech have to do with my daily life? What about crowdfunding and cryptocurrencies, do they have anything to do with Fintech? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is queerbaiting, the marketing technique Harry Styles is accused of using?
What is the psychology behind the bystander effect?
What are the warning signs of depression?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/18/2022 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
What is an inclusive Barbie?
Barbie has quite the impressive CV. She has had over 150 careers including fashion editor, surgeon and astronaut - enough to inspire any young fan. But what she has career-wise, she lacks when it comes to inclusivity.
Barbie is usually blond, perfect and impossibly proportioned - there is a reason Margo Robbie is playing her in the latest Barbie film. But this is finally going to change: Barbie is becoming more inclusive. Mattel is launching a new ‘Fashonista line’ which will include barbies with various disabilities, making it the most inclusive Barbie line to date.
What does an inclusive Barbie look like? Why has it taken so long to have an inclusive Barbie? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is queerbaiting, the marketing technique Harry Styles is accused of using?
What is the psychology behind the bystander effect?
What are the warning signs of depression?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/18/2022 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
What is queerbaiting, the marketing technique Harry Styles is accused of using?
Singer Harry Styles is set for a starring role in upcoming romantic drama My Policeman, which is set for release in October 2022. He plays a gay police officer in 1950s England, which has revived months-old accusations of queerbaiting from some observers.
Queerbaiting is a marketing strategy which consists of using LGBT community culture or aesthetics, without actually being queer, at least not publicly. The aim is to attract support from the queer community, without taking the risk of losing support from straight fans who aren’t LGBT allies.
Is there a lot of queerbaiting in the music world? So why exactly is Harry Styles accused of queerbaiting? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who are Iran’s infamous morality police?
How to spot a heart attack if you are a woman?
How should you get ready for your first mammogram?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/17/2022 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
[RERUN] What is popcorn?
Believe it or not, the history of popcorn stretches back as far as ancient times. The first traces go back to Peru over 7,000 years ago, according to a 2012 study.
Initially, popcorn was cheap to produce and therefore sold for next to nothing. In the 1920s, popcorn was affordable for all and every cinema had a walking salesperson just in front of the entrance. To start with, it only really took off in small local cinemas, with larger ones put off by the idea of having customers eating food inside.
When did popcorn make its debut in cinemas then? Are popcorn sales really profitable for cinemas? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who are Iran’s infamous morality police?
How to spot a heart attack if you are a woman?
How should you get ready for your first mammogram?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
What is the psychology behind the bystander effect?
You’ve probably already walked by a stranger spreadeagled on the ground. Chances are that if you saw several people already offering assistance, you carried on walking by. That’s due to what is known as the bystander effect.
The bystander effect is a psychosocial phenomenon which typically crops up in emergency situations. It shows that the more other people are already intervening to help, the less likely we are to do so ourselves. On the other hand, the likelihood of stepping in increases when you’re the only person present.
How does psychology explain this phenomenon? What are some well-known examples? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who are Iran’s infamous morality police?
How to spot a heart attack if you are a woman?
How should you get ready for your first mammogram?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What are the warning signs of depression?
In any given week in England, 3 in 100 people are suffering from depression, according to a NatCen Social Research study published in 2014. Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age or social class.
Everybody experiences different moods. You might find yourself feeling happy during the day, sad at times, or even just okay. Those with mood disorders experience these same emotions, but for longer periods of time and with higher intensity, to the extent that it can affect their daily lives. Depression is an example of a mood disorder.
What’s the difference between feeling down and being depressed? What causes depression? Are there other symptoms? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who are Iran’s infamous morality police?
How to spot a heart attack if you are a woman?
How should you get ready for your first mammogram?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
Who are Iran’s infamous morality police?
The recent death of 22-year old Iranian Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini has led to uprisings in Iran and has caused outrage across the globe. Amini was visiting her brother in Tehran when she was arrested by members of the country’s Guidance Patrol, also known as the morality police.
The protests throughout the country directly challenge the rules enforced by the morality police, with women taking off their headscarves in public and chanting “death to the dictator!”. The gatherings have been violently repressed by the government. Meanwhile, the protests have also spread to other parts of the world, in solidarity with women’s rights.
How did such an organisation come to exist? And what is happening in Iran now? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How to spot a heart attack if you are a woman?
How should you get ready for your first mammogram?
Who is Giorgia Meloni, the new face of the Italian far right?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
[RERUN] What is digital sobriety?
Digital sobriety is all about reducing the ecological footprint of our daily digital lifestyles. That’s right, using your cell phone, PC or connected refrigerator all contributes to pollution. And it’s on the rise.
The transition to digital technology is often presented as being a positive evolution, especially with regards to reducing household energy consumption. But current practices are contributing to global warming.
How does online browsing contribute to pollution? So, what should we do about it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is feeding birds in your garden a bad idea?
Why will we be using liquefied natural gas to heat our homes this winter?
Who is Giorgia Meloni, the new face of the Italian far right?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/13/2022 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
How to spot a heart attack if you are a woman?
A heart attack can be deadly but thankfully there are life saving treatments out there. However, research from the British Heart foundation has found that women are not receiving the same standard of care as men.
Although heart disease and heart attacks are more common in men it is more likely to be fatal for women. In fact heart attacks kill twice as many women in the UK than breast cancer does.
What is causing this? What symptoms should you look out for? What is being done to address this issue? We answer all your questions in under 3 minutes!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is feeding birds in your garden a bad idea?
Why will we be using liquefied natural gas to heat our homes this winter?
Who is Giorgia Meloni, the new face of the Italian far right?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/13/2022 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
How should you get ready for your first mammogram?
The thought of taking a mammogram is often scary for women, but it’s a highly important medical exam, and one we should bear in mind in the context of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Like with any type of cancer, the earlier breast cancer is detected, the better the patient’s chances of recovery. And a mammogram can detect abnormalities that are too difficult to spot by only sight and touch.
Why are mammograms recommended for women over the age of 50? Can women with breast implants or small breasts do the examination? We answer all your questions in under 3 minutes!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is feeding birds in your garden a bad idea?
Why will we be using liquefied natural gas to heat our homes this winter?
How can I improve my concentration at work?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/12/2022 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
Who is Giorgia Meloni, the new face of the Italian far right?
Giorgia Meloni's far-right Brothers of Italy party won the most votes in the Italian general election of late September 2022. She is poised to become prime minister in October.
Meloni will be Italy’s first ever female Prime Minister, which would usually be a cause for much celebration. But many observers are more concerned about what the future holds for the country, which will have its most right-wing government since World War II.
What is Meloni's background? How did she rise to the top of the Italian political landscape? What are her political views? We answer all your questions in under 3 minutes!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is feeding birds in your garden a bad idea?
Why will we be using liquefied natural gas to heat our homes this winter?
How can I improve my concentration at work?
A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/12/2022 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
[RERUN] What is mental health?
Yesterday, the 10th of October, was the World Mental Health Day. Since the start of the Covid crisis, mental health has become an increasingly important topic. Listen to our rerun episode.
The World Health Organisation defines mental health as “a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.” One in four people experiences some kind of mental health issue during their lifetime.
What are some signs of mental health disorders? Do these disorders happen overnight? To what extent is mental health recognised by states? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why will we be using liquefied natural gas to heat our homes this winter?
How can I improve my concentration at work?
What is Ramsay-Hunt syndrome, the disorder affecting Justin Bieber
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/11/2022 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
Is feeding birds in your garden a bad idea?
Leaving food out for the birds seems like a harmless and even generous idea, but research by the British Trust for Ornithology is showing that bird feeders might be doing more harm than good.
Between 2008 and 2018, chaffinch numbers dropped by 29 per cent in the UK, while 67 per cent of the country's greenfinches were lost, the study reveals.
How do bird feeders spread this disease? How can I keep using my bird feeder safely? Are there other ways to support birdlife in your garden? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why will we be using liquefied natural gas to heat our homes this winter?
How can I improve my concentration at work?
What is Ramsay-Hunt syndrome, the disorder affecting Justin Bieber
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/11/2022 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
Why will we be using liquefied natural gas to heat our homes this winter?
Talk of energy has been storming the headlines recently. A long, cold winter is approaching and prices are soaring, due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict...
Russia has long been Europe’s main energy supplier, but reducing dependence on Russian energy has now become critical, with many countries putting sanctions or boycotts in place. Meanwhile Russia stands accused of sabotaging gas pipelines which lead to the EU. In addition to a geopolitical crisis, Europe is now experiencing an energy crisis marked by the increase in the price of gas. In an attempt to solve this problem, the United States has proposed a solution, in the form of liquefied natural gas.
What's special about this gas? And why are we talking about it now? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is binge drinking over in the UK?
How can I improve my posture in the office?
Do I need to take vitamin D supplements?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/10/2022 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
[RERUN] What are sonic weapons?
In June it emerged that Greek police had acquired two long range acoustic devices, designed to discourage migrants from approaching the country's border with Turkey. At the size of a small TV, the cannons don’t look particularly threatening, but are capable of emitting powerful sound waves as loud as a jet plane.
An LRAD is an example of a sonic weapon, which is an umbrella term used to cover the many different types of acoustic harassment devices. They emit a particularly audible sound in a precise direction, making it very unpleasant for those who get close. The use of LRADs has been a source of controversy in a number of scenarios. In addition to the pain and disorientation caused, their alert feature has been reported to cause lasting hearing damage.
In what other scenarios are sonic weapons used? Is there anything peaceful protesters can do to protect themselves? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Is binge drinking over in the UK?
How can I improve my posture in the office?
Do I need to take vitamin D supplements?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
How can I improve my concentration at work?
No matter how prepared you are going into your normal day at the office, spending hours at your desk can get mundane and boring. Before you know it, your mind is wandering and you’ve lost focus...
According to a study published by Economist Intelligence Unit in October 2020, a third of working time is lost to distractions. That’s equivalent to a whopping 581 active hours per employee per year. But actually it doesn’t take much to get that concentration back and make some progress on your to-do list.
What are some tips for refocusing? Do we have to focus on one task at a time to be more efficient? What about the internal environment? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is binge drinking over in the UK?
How can I improve my posture in the office?
Do I need to take vitamin D supplements?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
What is Ramsay-Hunt syndrome, the disorder affecting Justin Bieber?
In June 2022, Canadian superstar singer Justin Bieber took to Instagram to reveal that he has a rare neurological disorder called Ramsay Hunt Syndrome.
He took a break from his world tour, and would do the same just a few months later, again using social media to tell fans about suffering with exhaustion and needing to “make health the priority”. After trying to restart the tour, he would eventually be forced to cancel his remaining concert dates.
How long have we known about this syndrome? What are its symptoms? Can you cure Ramsay Hunt syndrome? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is binge drinking over in the UK?
How can I improve my posture in the office?
Why should I avoid showering after a workout?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/8/2022 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
How does the "Scully Effect" raise young women's interest in science fields?
If you’ve ever seen an episode of 1990s series The X-Files, you’ll likely remember Dana Scully as an FBI detective. The character, played by Gillian Anderson for all 11 seasons, was also a graduate in medicine and physics.
The combination made for an unprecedented representation of women on TV at the time, with audiences far more accustomed to seeing scientists played by white men. The fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics are grouped together under the name of STEM professions. And Dana Scully was one of the first female characters in such a field to feature on prime-time TV, which would inspire a generation of young women to start careers in STEM professions. The phenomenon has become referred to as the Scully Effect.
Is there any data to back it up? Why did Scully become such an inspirational figure? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is binge drinking over in the UK?
How can I improve my posture in the office?
Why should I avoid showering after a workout?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
[RERUN] What is the single currency?
It was back in January 2002 that euro coins and banknotes were introduced, and the biggest cash changeover in history took place across 12 EU countries.
the story of the Euro actually goes much further back than that. It’s intrinsically linked to the very essence of the European Project. In 1946, shortly after the end of World War II, Josef Müller, resistance member, concentration camp survivor and founder of the Bavarian Christian Social Union talked up the benefits of a single currency, saying “countries that share a currency will never be at war”.
But how could having a single currency really ensure peace? What have we learned over the last 20 years? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, you can click here:
How can I improve my posture in the office?
Why should I avoid showering after a workout?
How often should you wash your bedsheets?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
Is binge drinking over in the UK?
Binge drinking is defined as consuming 5 or more drinks for a man, or 4 or more drinks for a woman, in about 2 hours, and the UK has a rather notorious reputation for drinking to excess, especially when abroad.
But according to a 2022 survey from Drinkaware, 26 % so nearly a third of 16 to 24-year-olds in the UK are now completely teetotal, meaning they do not drink at all. Add to this that 29% of pub visits and 37% of restaurant visits are also alcohol free. While the non-alcoholic beverage market has grown over 506 % since 2015 and it is pretty clear that sobriety or at least being "sober curious" a search term that actually peaked in 2021 following the pandemic might be the new normal in the UK.
So could binge drinking be a thing of the past? What else has caused this change? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I improve my posture in the office?
Why should I avoid showering after a workout?
How often should you wash your bedsheets?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
Do I need to take vitamin D supplements?
Vitamin D is known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’, and it’s not for nothing. Our bodies make it from cholesterol when exposed to sunlight. The sun’s ultraviolet B rays hit cholesterol in the skin cells, providing the energy needed for vitamin D synthesis to occur.
Naturally, during autumn and winter, there’s less sunlight and government advice suggests that everyone should consider taking Vitamin D supplements during these seasons. In fact, most people are Vitamin D-deficient regardless of the season. Sedentary lifestyles mean they simply don’t get enough sun exposure. Really, you want to get about 20 minutes of sun exposure each day when you can. Ideally that will be before 11AM or after 5PM, as UV levels peak in between those times, meaning sunlight can be damaging to the skin.
What's so special about Vitamin D? Can it be found in food? Who should be taking vitamin D supplements? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why should I avoid showering after a workout?
How often should you wash your bedsheets?
How can I keep my exercise eco-friendly?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/5/2022 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
How can I improve my posture in the office?
Musculoskeletal disorders, like back pain and arthritis, are recognized as occupational diseases in Western countries which have a large office workforce. The UK’s Health and Safety Executive lists some of the causes of these disorders as repetitive work, particularly using the same hand or arm action, carrying out a task for a long time and working with display screen equipment.
Pain or stiffness in the muscles, tendons, nerves, back, wrists or neck can appear little by little when certain office equipment is missing, or not set up correctly. Let’s discuss some tips that can improve office posture.
What about my office chair? Is there a right way to sit in front of your computer? What about the rest of my equipment? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Resale, repair, rental, refill... could this be the new way to shop?
What are lolcows, the unwitting targets of online bullies?
How can I improve my sporting performance through mental preparation?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/5/2022 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
[RERUN] What is space tourism?
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos stepped down from his position as the company’s CEO to focus on other projects. He’ll remain executive chairman at Amazon but now wants to dedicate more time to other projects, including his space tourism company Blue Origin.
Following that surprise announcement, British business magnate Richard Branson also declared his desire to go into space with his company Virgin Galactic. Some have labelled these developments as a new dawn for space tourism.
So who’s earning bragging rights in the billionaires’ space race?How long has space tourism been around? Wait, are you saying one day I’ll be able to jump on a rocket into space? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the latest episodes, you can click here:
Why should I avoid showering after a workout?
How often should you wash your bedsheets?
How can I keep my exercise eco-friendly?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
Resale, repair, rental, refill… could this be the new way to shop?
You might have heard of ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ a motto with the aim of encouraging us to think about how we consume and consider the impact that buying lots of stuff has on the planet.
But now the high end department store Selfridges has launched a new campaign, ‘Project Earth’ to try and change the way we shop: resale, repair, rental and refill is their response to customers' growing demands for sustainable shopping and move away from fast fashion and disposable goods.
What is the aim? How will it work? What other changes has Selfridges planned? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why should I avoid showering after a workout?
How often should you wash your bedsheets?
How can I keep my exercise eco-friendly?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
What are lolcows, the unwitting targets of online bullies?
The online bullies have come up with a derogatory term for their targets; lolcows. Like cash cows, they are exploited, or milked, for entertainment purposes.
Longstanding American forum Kiwi Farms was shut down by Cloudflare in early September 2022. The reason: an “imminent and emergency threat to human life”, according to the internet infrastructure company. That’s because the forum is pretty much dedicated to online harassment. This includes practices like group trolling, doxxing and cyberstalking. It can spill over into real-life harassment too. At least two victims have committed suicide since the site was created.
Who was the first lolcow? What can we do about this bullying? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why should I avoid showering after a workout?
How often should you wash your bedsheets?
How can I keep my exercise eco-friendly?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/3/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
[RERUN] What is nuclear deterrence?
Three days after his army invaded Ukraine, Russian president Vladimir Putin announced he was raising his country’s military nuclear deterrence threat level. He justified the move by citing the economic sanctions placed on Russia by the West, as well as what he called “aggressive statements” from NATO.
Concerns grew further quickly a few days later when Russia shelled Europe’s largest nuclear power station, in Zaporizhzhia. A building at the station caught fire but radiation levels and reactor safety were thankfully unaffected. All this has led to fears the war could potentially escalate into a nuclear conflict.
Isn’t the idea of deterrence forces a contradiction?!Isn’t the idea of deterrence forces a contradiction? Which countries actually have nuclear weapons? Which countries actually have nuclear weapons? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why should I avoid showering after a workout?
How often should you wash your bedsheets?
How can I keep my exercise eco-friendly?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
How can I improve my sporting performance through mental preparation?
It's back to school! Do You Really Know is dedicating a special week to sport. Because moving and doing regular physical activity is important for our physical and mental health! Listen again to our episodes about sport!
With many types of personal goals, actually doing the task is only part of the battle. Being mentally prepared is also hugely important and can sometimes be overlooked. Sports and exercise are no exception. Consistently training and staying on top of your progress is crucial inimproving at a sport and as an athlete. But just training non-stop physically isn’t actually enough. Your head also needs to be in the game, so that you can show resilience when things get more challenging.
What can you do to become mentally prepared? How can athletes deal with stress? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why should I avoid showering after a workout?
How often should you wash your bedsheets?
How can I keep my exercise eco-friendly?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
Why is exercise good for my skin?
It's back to school! Do You Really Know is dedicating a special week to sport. Because moving and doing regular physical activity is important for our physical and mental health! Listen again to our episodes about sport!
It doesn’t matter which fancy moisturizers or expensive skincare routine you use, nothing quite matches how your skin looks and feels after an intense workout. Just take a look in the mirror after you’ve finished exercising and you’ll likely see smooth skin and a glowing complexion. That’s right, in addition to the positive impact on our physical and mental health, exercise can also improve our skin health. And there are studies out there which have backed it up. For example, biology journal Aging Cell reported on one in 2015, which found that vigorous exercise led to visibly younger-looking skin.
What’s the science behind that? How exactly does exercising and sweating purify skin? Are some types of exercise better for your skin than others? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why should I avoid showering after a workout?
How often should you wash your bedsheets?
How can I keep my exercise eco-friendly?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/1/2022 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
[RERUN] Is running actually bad for our joints and bones?
It's back to school! DYRK is dedicating a special week to sport. Because moving and doing regular physical activity is important for our physical and mental health! Listen again to our episodes about sport!
Running is one of the most common forms of exercise, and it makes sense when you think about it. You can do it more or less anywhere and equipment costs are relatively low. But many people say running is bad for the human body, whether it be the back, knees or just bones in general. It’s often associated with an increased risk of developing osteoarthritis, a common joint disease. So is there any truth behind these assumptions? We’ve looked at a number of scientific studies to find out the facts.
Where does running get its bad reputation from then? Why do so many runners end up getting injured then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
Is it time the UK acknowledged its role in the slave trade?
Why do we sneeze?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/30/2022 • 5 minutes, 1 second
Why should I avoid showering after a workout?
It's back to school! Do You Really Know is dedicating a special week to sport. Because moving and doing regular physical activity is important for our physical and mental health! Listen again to our episodes about sport!
After an intense and sweaty workout, the first thing most of us want to do is jump into the shower to relax our muscles and wash off the sweat. However, that’s not actually the best idea. Showering too soon after a workout can have harmful effects on our health.
Really? Like what? Is it better to take a hot or cold shower? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How often should you wash your bedsheets?
How can I keep my exercise eco-friendly?
Could insects replace meat?
A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
[RERUN] What is sportswashing ?
It's back to school! DYRK is dedicating a special week to sport. Because moving and doing regular physical activity is important for our physical and mental health! Listen again to our episodes about sport!
Look out Premier League clubs, a new big boy is in town! That’s right, following approval of their acquisition by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Newcastle United has all of a sudden become one of the richest clubs in the world! While the Toon Army are celebrating their club’s new found wealth and dreaming of trophies to come in the future, other observers aren’t in such a buoyant mood. They’ve accused the new owners, who effectively represent the state of Saudi Arabia, of sportswashing.
Have the new owners actually done anything wrong? How common are we talking then? Why would sports clubs or athletes want to risk tarnishing their image with such links? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
Is it time the UK acknowledged its role in the slave trade?
Why do we sneeze?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/29/2022 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
How often should you wash your bedsheets?
We spend a lot of time in bed and there is nothing nicer than snuggling up in clean fresh sheets but apparently not everyone feels the same.
According to a survey commissioned by Pizuna Linens of over 2 thousand people in the UK it was discovered that 45 percent of single men are happy to wait up to four months to wash their sheets with a horrifying 12 percent only doing it ‘when they remembered’ so who knows how long they wait! Women were shown to have higher standards of hygiene with 62 percent of single women washing their sheets every 2 weeks. But even this is just not enough with experts agreeing that you should wash your sheets at least once a week.
But why do you need to wash them so often? What is the best way to wash them? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I keep my exercise eco-friendly?
Could insects replace meat?
Can exercise snacking help me beat a busy schedule to stay fit?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/29/2022 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
Why are people boycotting the Qatar World Cup?
It's back to school! Do You Really Know is dedicating a special week to sport. Because moving and doing regular physical activity is important for our physical and mental health! Listen again to our episodes about sport!
It’s been labelled the most controversial World Cup in history. Nevertheless, preparations for Qatar 2022 are in full swing and we’re now less than two months away from the start of the tournament. There have been critics ever since the small Middle Eastern country with a questionable human rights record was selected as host back in 2010. But those voices are now growing louder, and some football lovers are even preparing to boycott the whole thing. These include former French star Eric Cantona and 2014 World Cup winning captain Philipp Lahm from Germany.
What’s their problem with Qatar? What about the event’s environmental impact? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Could insects replace meat?
Can exercise snacking help me beat a busy schedule to stay fit?
Will Star Wars: Andor live up to the hype?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
How can I keep my exercise eco-friendly?
It's back to school! Do You Really Know is dedicating a special week to sport. Because moving and doing regular physical activity is important for our physical and mental health! Listen again to our episodes about sport!
One of the biggest challenges that we have been facing and will be continuing to face in the coming years is protecting our planet. So it’s worth reflecting on how we can exercise in a more eco-friendly manner. We turn to exercise for leisure, entertainment and to stay fit and healthy, but not many people realize that the carbon footprint can be significant. Of course that’s particularly true for high-profile international sporting events, like the FIFA World Cup, which is taking place in Qatar this winter. But even for the vast majority of us who aren’t involved in professional competition, there are still things you can do to reduce the environmental impact of your exercise.
Well I’ve been a gym member for years now; that can’t have much impact, can it?! What about clothing and accessories? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Could insects replace meat?
Can exercise snacking help me beat a busy schedule to stay fit?
Will Star Wars: Andor live up to the hype?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
[RERUN] What is muscle dysmorphia?
It's back to school! DYRK is dedicating a special week to sport. Because moving and doing regular physical activity is important for our physical and mental health! Listen again to our episodes about sport!
Muscle dysmorphia, also known as bigorexia or reverse anorexia, is an obsession with bulking up by working out. It’s caused by a person’s belief that their body is too skinny or lacking in muscle. The term “exercise addiction” was coined by psychiatrist William Glasser in the 1970s. More recently, it has been recognized as a potentially harmful condition. This addiction usually affects those who exercise excessively, mainly endurance sports participants and bodybuilders.
How does it affect their mental health? What cause muscle dysmorphia? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
Is it time the UK acknowledged its role in the slave trade?
Why do we sneeze?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
Could insects replace meat?
Although it is quite usual to find insects in markets in both Africa and Asia it is rather more unusual for people in the West to eat them.
However, with increased awareness of animal welfare and environmental concerns around eating meat people are beginning to think more seriously about insects as food rather than something to be swatted. The problem is that a lot of people find eating bugs pretty off putting, but now scientists have discovered that mealworms, traditionally used as pet food or as bait for fishing, have a rather meat-like flavour when cooked with sugar and could maybe offer new hope to the insects-as-food debate.
What are the benefits of eating insects? What are the disadvantages of eating meat? So will we be seeing insects in supermarkets soon? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Can exercise snacking help me beat a busy schedule to stay fit?
Will Star Wars: Andor live up to the hype?
Why were the queen’s bees told of her death?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/27/2022 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
[RERUN] What is eye yoga?
It's back to school! DYRK is dedicating a special week to sport. Because moving and doing regular physical activity is important for our physical and mental health! Listen again to our episodes about sport!
In the last 12 months, we’ve all spent more time at home than we expected. As a result, our use of computers or smartphones has increased to the point where many of us spend almost all day gazing into a screen. This can lead to eye strain and dry eyes, as well as other disorders or diseases. OK, so in this day and age it’s difficult to totally go without all these digital tools which are part of our daily lives. But there are some tips to prevent or slow vision loss. Eye yoga allows us to train our eye muscles. It’s a natural method which comes from Indian medicine. We often forget to exercise our eyes, which function thanks to muscles. And muscles need to be trained!
This sounds like it must be the latest fad! Is it actually effective? What are the exercises to stimulate eyes? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
Is it time the UK acknowledged its role in the slave trade?
Why do we sneeze?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/27/2022 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
Can exercise snacking help me beat a busy schedule to stay fit?
It's back to school! DYRK is dedicating a special week to sport. Because moving and doing regular physical activity is important for our physical and mental health! Listen again to our episodes about sport!
It's well known that we should all be doing half an hour of moderate physical activity every day. But sometimes our busy lifestyles make it difficult finding thirty consecutive minutes to do exercise. Sure, you could get up extra early in the morning, cut your lunch break short, or dig deep to find the needed energy and motivation for a post-work gym session. But a bitesized method called exercise snacking may be a simpler option when it comes to hitting your daily quota. Now obviously we're not talking about sweet or savoury snacks here; rather separating exercise into smaller chunks which are spread throughout the day.
Is that really comparable to doing a full workout in one go? How can I adapt my day to fit in exercise snacking? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Will Star Wars: Andor live up to the hype?
Why were the queen’s bees told of her death?
Do I have poor blood circulation?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
[RERUN] What is CrossFit?
It's back to school! DYRK is dedicating a special week to sport. Because moving and doing regular physical activity is important for our physical and mental health! Listen again to our episodes about sport!
CrossFit is a branded fitness regimen which combines weightlifting, gymnastics, endurance and other forms of physical conditioning. The name comes from the constantly varied nature of workouts, which change every day to suit each individual. The methodology was developed from the 1970s onwards by American college gymnast Greg Glassman, who would go on to found CrossFit with his then wife Lauren Jenai in 2000. The company operates an affiliate model, licensing its name for an annual $3,000 fee to gyms which are known as boxes. There are more than 15,000 affiliates worldwide, with around 6,000 in the United States alone.
What are the workouts like? But why have we been hearing CrossFit mentioned a lot on the news and social media of late? What’s the fallout for the CrossFit brand? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
Is it time the UK acknowledged its role in the slave trade?
Why do we sneeze?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
What is sex surrogacy, the controversial sex therapy?
It may be a little taboo to talk about it, but there are a lot of people out there who, for a variety of reasons, don’t have as much sex as they would like, or arguably need. And there’s actually a form of therapy out there which is specifically designed to help people become more comfortable with sex and intimacy.
The idea of sex surrogacy started catching on in Europe in the 2000s, and these days it’s actually regulated and even covered by social security in some countries, like Switzerland, Denmark and the Netherlands. Still, in many places it’s a legal grey area, and raises a number of ethical questions to boot. For example it became a subject of debate in France in 2013, when a proposal was put forward to cover sex surrogacy expenses for disabled people.
Why would someone need to use the services of a sex surrogate? What’s the difference between a sex surrogate and a sex worker? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Will Star Wars: Andor live up to the hype?
Why were the queen’s bees told of her death?
Do I have poor blood circulation?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/25/2022 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What is orthorexia, the disorder which sees healthy eating go too far?
According to the American National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, around 9% of the US population are affected by an eating disorder. We’ve all heard of anorexia, bulimia and binge eating, which are among the most commonly diagnosed. But there is also orthorexia.
It’s called orthorexia, coming from the Latin words “orthos”, meaning correct and “orexis”, meaning appetite. American doctor Steven Bratman coined the term in 1997. To put it simply, orthorexia is a need to eat healthy at all costs, to the extent that it becomes an obsession. Those affected start cutting out certain foods completely, or even seeing them as dangerous when they’re not really. Scientifically speaking, orthorexia isn’t recognised as an eating disorder in its own right, at least not yet. So it’s hard to find any precise data on how many people are affected. But it’s still more dangerous than you might think.
Isn’t eating healthily recommended by medical professionals? How can I find out if I suffer from orthorexia? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Will Star Wars: Andor live up to the hype?
Why were the queen’s bees told of her death?
Do I have poor blood circulation?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/24/2022 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
[RERUN] What are sleep streams?
How do you like the idea of going to sleep and waking up richer? Sounds pretty sweet, huh? Well believe it or not, sleep streams have actually become a big trend among influencers on streaming platform Twitch.
Influenceurs film themselves asleep, set challenges and go through sleep marathons in interactive formats. Meanwhile, viewers try to annoy the streamer or wake them up by playing videos and sending text-to-speech messages. That’s right, sleep streams are the latest weird way of making money online!
How did this become a thing? What’s the point of staring into a laptop or smartphone screen watching someone sleep? And even worse, paying for it?! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Will Star Wars: Andor live up to the hype?
Why were the queen’s bees told of her death?
Do I have poor blood circulation?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/24/2022 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
Will Star Wars: Andor live up to the hype?
As we head into the final quarter of 2022, the world’s biggest entertainment franchises are going head to head. HBO struck first with Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon, and then Amazon followed up with The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. So it was only a matter of time before Disney got involved.
Just as well for them then that they have one of the most lucrative licenses of all time at their disposal. From 21st September onwards, the latest series from a ‘Galaxy Far Far Away’ will be released on the Disney+ streaming platform. That’s right, we’re talking about Star Wars: Andor. Let’s face it, the huge Star Wars fanbase has been more than a little disappointed with the franchise’s most recent episodes, but the dramatic Andor trailer has nevertheless captured their imagination. Lucasfilm had announced an Andor spin-off series as far back as 2018.
How does the series fit into the Star Wars universe? So, will it live up to the hype? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why were the queen’s bees told of her death?
Do I have poor blood circulation?
Will the British museum finally give back the Parthenon marbles?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/23/2022 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
Why were the queen’s bees told of her death?
The announcement of the sad news of the Queen’s passing, like all of the events following her death, followed strict protocol. The Prime Minister was informed using a pre-arranged code “London Bridge is down”. And somewhere, deep in the gardens of Buckinham palace, the royal beekeeper informed the royal bees.
That’s right the beekeeper, John Chapple, who’s been the Queen’s beekeeper for 15 years and takes care of up to a million bees, personally went to each hive in both Buckingham palace and Clarence house, to let them know that the queen was dead. Interviewed for the daily mail he said ‘You knock on each hive and say, ‘The mistress is dead, but don't you go. Your master will be a good master to you.’ He then said a little prayer and put a black ribbon on each hive.
Why does he tell the bees? Where does this tradition come from ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Do I have poor blood circulation?
Will the British museum finally give back the Parthenon marbles?
What did the Jane Collective do for US women’s rights?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
[RERUN] What is Cobra Kai?
If you’ve got Netflix, you’ve no doubt seen this series pop up in your recommendations more than once. All the more so given the fourth season just hit the platform on New Year’s Eve, adding to the 30 episodes which were already available.
Well in order to really understand we should probably be asking “What is Karate Kid?”, as Cobra Kai is a direct sequel to the Karate Kid films which inspired a generation of kids to take up martial arts in the 1980s. Riding the wave of martial arts film popularity, the first Karate Kid film was a typical feel-good family film of the times.
It sounds like a cool name! So what’s it about? What’s the series about then? And what audience is it aimed at? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Do I have poor blood circulation?
Will the British museum finally give back the Parthenon marbles?
What did the Jane Collective do for US women’s rights?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
Can I cure my fear of spiders?
If just thinking of spiders is enough to make the hairs stand up on the back of your neck, or you jump any time you see one, the chances are you suffer from arachnophobia. It affects up to 15% of people according to the Cleveland Clinic, making it one of the most common phobias out there.
As it turns out, human fear of spiders may well be down to evolution. Researchers from Germany, Austria and Sweden looked into the question in more detail for a study published in Frontiers in Psychology in 2017. This may be because such creatures have historically provided a threat. Some other studies have also backed up the idea of an inherited fear of spiders.
But my friend keeps pet spiders; why doesn’t she have the same fear as me? So can it be cured? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Will the British museum finally give back the Parthenon marbles?
What did the Jane Collective do for US women’s rights?
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/21/2022 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
Do I have poor blood circulation?
If you’ve got heavy legs, nighttime cramps, varicose veins or swelling in the legs, you may have blood flow issues. When you consider that our bodies contain an incredible 60,000 miles worth of blood vessels, it’s really not uncommon.
Something like a varicose vein is usually relatively harmless. Other conditions include hemorrhoids, and phlebitis, which is a blood clot in a deep vein. Worse still are varicose ulcers, which are a complication of varicose veins or phlebitis. It’s important to know the cause behind any blood circulation issues and get treatment to avoid complications.
How does the circulatory system work? Are there specific factors that would make me more likely to have poor blood circulation? Why do I feel like the symptoms are always worse in the summer? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Will the British museum finally give back the Parthenon marbles?
What did the Jane Collective do for US women’s rights?
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/21/2022 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
Will the British museum finally give back the Parthenon marbles?
It’s not news that museums all around the world contain works of art that have been looted or forcefully taken during colonial rule but is it time they gave them back?
It seems pretty straightforward for an increasing number of people that it is the moral thing to do and that art and artifacts belong in their country of origin. Museums often counteract this by saying, amongst other things, that if they returned these objects they would be left nearly empty, or that these countries or territories no longer exist so where would they go back to, or even that they were legally acquired in the first place. But recently a number of prestigious museums around the world seemed to have had a change of heart and are indeed repatriating works.
What are the Parthenon Marbles and where are they from, and why are they in the UK? Will Britain give them back? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What did the Jane Collective do for US women’s rights?
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
Is it time the UK acknowledged its role in the slave trade?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
[RERUN] What is the P-Spot?
Most of the time, when we hear the word prostate, we associate it with cancer. We don’t necessarily know where it’s situated in the male body and even less so its potential as an erogenous zone!
Let’s take an anatomy lesson then. The prostate, or male P-spot, is a small gland around the size of a walnut which can be found just below the bladder. It weighs between 20 and 40 grams, growing bigger as a man ages. Its role in the body is to produce the seminal liquid found in semen. This protects sperm from the acidic environment of the female vagina. The easiest way to access the prostate is through the rectum. And many men have discovered it to be a source of sexual pleasure.
Why this sexual practice is often rejected by heterosexual men? So, how does it work then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What did the Jane Collective do for US women’s rights?
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
Is it time the UK acknowledged its role in the slave trade?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
What did the Jane Collective do for US women’s rights?
There’s been a lot of discussion of Roe vs Wade this year, with the US Supreme Court controversially overturning the decision nearly half a century after it was made. Henceforth, each American state is free to decide whether abortion is legal or not, to the despair of many women’s rights supporters.
But if we go back to 1960s America, abortion was illegal pretty much everywhere and treated as equivalent to homicide, from a legal perspective at least. In many places, birth control was prohibited for unmarried women. Things were gradually changing, with some states reforming their antiabortion laws. But a group of women known as the Jane Collective weren’t waiting around for that to happen. They took matters into their own hands, literally!
Who were these women and how did the group start out? Were they the only ones performing illegal abortions? Didn’t the authorities clamp down on their activities? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
Is it time the UK acknowledged its role in the slave trade?
Why do we sneeze?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
How can I wake up refreshed every morning?
Some people believe they simply can’t function in the morning until they’ve had a cup of coffee. Others seem to be grumpy every morning, as if they’ve got out of the wrong side of the bed.
Of course, a poor night’s sleep can be the cause, whether it be down to stress, not getting to bed early enough, drinking or other physical conditions like sleep apnea. Psychological factors can also come into play, like a lack of motivation in your job or relationship issues. But sleep quality and mental health aren’t the only factors. A lot of us wake up and get up in a pretty suboptimal way.
What’s the best way to wake up then? What about having a lie-in to get extra sleep? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
Is it time the UK acknowledged its role in the slave trade?
Why do we sneeze?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/18/2022 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
[RERUN] What is World Cleanup Day?
Today is World Cleanup Day!
World Cleanup Day is held annually on the third Saturday of September all over the world. This year it falls today, on September 18th. The global initiative was launched by the Let’s Do It Foundation, a nonprofit association, and the aim is to combat pollution through community clean-ups. Created in 2008 in Estonia, the association is a certified member of the UN Environment Programme.
But why Estonia? What does a community clean-up mean? What kind of waste are we talking about? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is it time the UK acknowledged its role in the slave trade?
Why do we sneeze?
Do we have a treatment for Monkeypox at last?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/18/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What are the secrets behind the Lord of the Rings saga?
The three Lord of the Rings stories quickly became huge hits when first released as novels in the 1940s. They quickly built a cult fan base due to the fantastical universe created by author JRR Tolkien.
But his works reached a whole other dimension with the epic Hollywood adaptations of the 2000s. These blockbusters brought the stories to life, wowing audiences with stunning visual effects and an Oscar-winning musical score. A number of films based on the life of Bilbo Baggins then followed, but the story didn’t end there. Fans are currently getting stuck into The Rings of Power the latest series linked to the Lord of the Rings universe. The first episodes were released on Amazon Prime Video in early September 2022. Let’s take a few minutes to discuss some of the little-known secrets behind the massively successful franchise.
How did Tolkien come up with the idea of creating the Lord of the Rings universe? What secrets did the Hollywood films bring? Did Tolkien leave any loose ends in his story? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
Is it time the UK acknowledged its role in the slave trade?
Why do we sneeze?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/17/2022 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What is tagskryt, the Scandinavian sustainable travel trend?
We’ve already talked about flygskam and the no-fly movement in the past. Today, let’s discuss the shift towards train travel which has come about as a result, and the pride which people take in it! In Sweden, they even came up with a name for it, which is tagskryt, and translates as “triain bragging”!
The train has always been the preferred mode of transport for some people. Let’s face it; it’s easy to sit back comfortably, read a book, work or simply stare out of the window at the countryside sights going by. For others, switching to the train has been an enforced change of habit, brought on by realising what a negative impact flying has on the planet.
Another Scandinavian buzzword, huh! Is it really worth bragging about it on social media? Is flying really that much worse than taking the train? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is it time the UK acknowledged its role in the slave trade?
Why do we sneeze?
Do we have a treatment for Monkeypox at last?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
Is it time the UK acknowledged its role in the slave trade?
Prof Kehinde Andrews, the UK’s first professor of Black studies and one of the UK’s leading experts on race, has called for a public holiday to remember the horrors of slavery.
According to Andrews there was ‘really nothing more important to Britain’s development than slavery.’ He feels that an official public holiday is needed to keep its memory alive and preserve a conscience of the horrors of the trade and remind us of the continued consequences of slavery today. Although he said one day was “not even close to enough” to acknowledge the UK’s links to the historical transatlantic slave trade.
How much was Britain involved? What are the modern consequences of slavery in the UK? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do we sneeze?
Do we have a treatment for Monkeypox at last?
Who are digital nomads, the new generation of remote workers?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
[RERUN] What is brand activism?
Brand activism is when companies seek to have an impact on a social, economic, environmental, or political problem.
It’s increasingly common, especially at the moment, but it can have negative consequences. In many cases, companies are called out for being hypocritical when engaging in brand activism. Cynics often see it as opportunistic marketing. Even worse, the company may in fact have a poor track record when it comes to the issue on which they are taking a stance.
Why do brands feel like they need to get political then? That all sounds like it will help equality. So what’s the problem? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why do we sneeze?
Do we have a treatment for Monkeypox at last?
Who are digital nomads, the new generation of remote workers?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 55 seconds
Why do we sneeze?
We’ve all become a lot more self-conscious about sneezing since COVID-19 came along. Whether you’re out in the street or worse in crowded public transport, sneezing gets you more concerned looks than it did before, and people tend to keep their distance.
On top of that, we now all better understand how sneezing works. That’s right, by sneezing we propel micro-droplets of mucus potentially full of germs into the air. Indeed, MIT research showed that the mist of mucus and saliva released by a sneeze can reach speeds of 100 mph and be projected over 8 metres! Thanks to high-speed cameras, scientists have also noticed that once the sneeze has passed, a cloud containing droplets can remain suspended in the air for several minutes.
How does sneezing work then? Why do some people hold back sneezes? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Do we have a treatment for Monkeypox at last?
Who are digital nomads, the new generation of remote workers?
Who is FN Meka, the world’s first AI rapper?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
Why is male fertility declining so drastically?
For 30 years, male sperm counts have been declining all around the world, particularly in Western countries. It’s been demonstrated over and over again by scientific studies.
Indeed, research published by Oxford Academic in the Human Reproduction Update journal in 2017 looked at nearly 200 studies on the matter. It found that sperm counts in North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand had plummeted by 59% from 1973 to 2011.
What are the reasons behind this? What can men do to be aware of their fertility? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Do we have a treatment for Monkeypox at last?
Who are digital nomads, the new generation of remote workers?
Who is FN Meka, the world’s first AI rapper?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
Do we have a treatment for Monkeypox at last?
In the last few months alone more than 3,000 people in the UK have caught the monkeypox virus and around 20 cases are being confirmed a day. As of July the World Health Organisation declared monkeypox a public health emergency of international concern.
British scientists from the University of Oxford, in fact the same team who led the ‘Recovery trial’ which looked into a cure for acute covid, have become the first in the world to launch a clinical trial for Monkeypox. The trial, known as ‘Platinum’ is aiming to find a drug that can alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery.
What actually is monkeypox and how does it spread? What is the trial going to do? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who are digital nomads, the new generation of remote workers?
Who is FN Meka, the world’s first AI rapper?
Who is Liz Truss, the new British Prime Minister?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/13/2022 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Aukus alliance?
On September 16th 2021, Australia announced it had signed a strategic pact with the United States and United Kingdom. The aim is to ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific, which consists of several important seaways between India, Japan and Australia.
The recent pact was named AUKUS, to include the initials of the three signatory countries. It will see the United States provide Australia with at least eight new nuclear-propelled submarines. Australia is therefore set to become the seventh country, after India, China, Russia, the UK, France and the US to field nuclear submarines. Furthermore, the US had only ever previously shared nuclear propulsion technology with the United Kingdom, so it’s quite the historic development.
New deal, great, so everyone’s a winner right?! Why did Australia prefer forming an alliance with the US then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who are digital nomads, the new generation of remote workers?
Who is FN Meka, the world’s first AI rapper?
Who is Liz Truss, the new British Prime Minister?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/13/2022 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
Who are digital nomads, the new generation of remote workers?
Digital nomads earn a living working online, while moving freely around the world.
Since the first COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020, remote work has become commonplace in companies around the world. Working from home offers many advantages, and “work from anywhere” policies take this freedom one step further. Many employees have said “yes, please” and packed their bags to become digital nomads.
Has the digital nomad lifestyle always been popular? What kinds of jobs do digital nomads do? What might the future of digital nomads look like? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who is FN Meka, the world’s first AI rapper?
Who is Liz Truss, the new British Prime Minister?
How can I ease my foot pain?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/12/2022 • 4 minutes, 45 seconds
Could "mouth taping" really help me sleep better?
Mouth taping involves putting tape over your mouth. It's supposed to improve your sleep by forcing you to breathe through your nose rather than your mouth.
Regular listeners will be aware that we’ve discussed a number of Tiktok trends on this podcast. Not long ago, we covered the Blackout challenge after it led to the tragic deaths of a number of young children. As of yet the mouth taping trend we’re talking about today thankfully hasn’t claimed any victims, at least as far as our web searches tell us. But it’s nevertheless causing concern, with experts warning it’s highly dangerous.
OK, what does mouth taping involve then? Why is it dangerous then? Are there other options for better nighttime breathing? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who is FN Meka, the world’s first AI rapper?
Who is Liz Truss, the new British Prime Minister?
How can I ease my foot pain?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/11/2022 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
[RERUN] What is the 9/11 Museum?
It’s been twenty-one years since the 9/11 attacks which shocked the entire world, killing 2977 people. As part of the commemorations, President Biden is due to visit the three plane crash sites in New York City, Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon.
Part of the memorial at Ground Zero in New York includes the 9/11 Museum, which was inaugurated in May 2014 by then President Barack Obama. Its construction cost over $700M, and its aim is to ensure we and future generations never forget that fateful morning, all the while sending a message of hope, resilience and unity. Of course, it’s important to remember such historical tragedies and learn from them, but the museum has not been without its critics since day one.
What’s it like inside the museum? It sounds very moving but what is the controversy about? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who is FN Meka, the world’s first AI rapper?
Who is Liz Truss, the new British Prime Minister?
How can I ease my foot pain?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/11/2022 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
Do I really need to flush toxins out of my body?
There are an increasing number of trends and products out there to rid your body of toxins, such as infrared saunas, liver-purifying supplements and detox diets. But what exactly are toxins?
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, a toxin is “a poisonous substance, especially one produced by bacteria, that causes disease.” However, today we tend to use the word toxin to refer to all the harmful substances present in the body such as food additives, pesticides, alcohol, gluten or pollutants. It’s actually kind of misleading, because not all toxins are as bad as one might think. That’s especially true when you consider that our bodies are capable of flushing out toxins on their own, without the need for any fancy treatments or supplements.
Which organs in the body are responsible for eliminating toxins? People say that you have to sweat to flush out toxins… is that true? Are we saying there’s no need to flush toxins out after all? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who is FN Meka, the world’s first AI rapper?
Who is Liz Truss, the new British Prime Minister?
How can I ease my foot pain?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/10/2022 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
Who is FN Meka, the world’s first AI rapper?
FN Meka is the world’s first AI rapper. At the time of recording, he had accrued a whopping 10.3 million followers on TikTok.
We’ve seen all sorts of social media trends in recent years, including the rise of influencers, and even virtual influencers. Some have accrued mind-boggling followings on social media, like Lil Miquela for example, a model and singer who has over 3 million fans on Instagram. And the world of music hasn’t escaped from artificial intelligence either.
Who's behind this superstar robot-rapper? Where are we at now with the whole fallout? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Who is Liz Truss, the new British Prime Minister?
How can I ease my foot pain?
Why does not getting enough sleep make you selfish?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
[DEATH OF ELIZABETH II] What is Operation London Bridge?
Queen Elizabeth II died on 8 September 2022 at the age of 96. The operation that accompanies her death is called London Bridge. A major procedure that will punctuate the next ten days. We explain what London Bridge is in this episode.
Who will be the first to hear the news? How quickly will the rest of us find out? What are the practical arrangements for Operation London Bridge? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the lastest episodes, click here:
How can I ease my foot pain?
Why does not getting enough sleep make you selfish?
Is "quiet quitting" helping employees find a better work-life balance?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/9/2022 • 5 minutes, 21 seconds
Who is Liz Truss, the new British Prime Minister?
Former Foreign Secretary Liz Truss has been chosen as the new Prime minister, beating former Chancellor Rishi Sunak to replace Boris Johnson.
Although this has been a mediatised campaign that everyone in the UK was aware of, less than 1% of the British public actually got a say in who would be the next PM as voting was only open Conservative party members.
How was Liz Truss Chosen? What will happen next? And who is Liz Truss? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I ease my foot pain?
Why does not getting enough sleep make you selfish?
Is "quiet quitting" helping employees find a better work-life balance?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/8/2022 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
[RERUN] What are neobanks?
Neobanks are 100% digital. They run exclusively through mobile apps, with no brick-and-mortar premises. They offer customers a user-first design, and promise low cost banking operations.
There are more and more neobanks around, drawing in millions of users and rivalling traditional banks, although they don’t technically hold the same status. Don’t confuse neobanks with digital banks, which are usually the online-only arms of bigger players in the banking sector. You may have heard of the SanFrancisco based neobank Chime, which is the leader in the US at the moment. But brands like N26, Revolut and Monzo are also bringing over their expertise from Europe, where the online-only trend is further ahead. All were created in the late 2010s.
So why would I want to try a neobank then? So what about our traditional brick-and-mortar banks? They’re not just going to disappear are they? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I ease my foot pain?
Why does not getting enough sleep make you selfish?
Is "quiet quitting" helping employees find a better work-life balance?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/8/2022 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
What are mirror hours?
Ever checked the time on your phone or TV set and seen a quirky number like 13:13, 11:11 or 20:20? Well of course you have, but what you may not know is there’s actually a name for such numbers: mirror hours!
Basically, when you’re looking at a digital time display, you see a mirror time if the minute number and the hour number are the same. It refers to the symmetry you see on either side of the colon separating the two numbers. Most people are pretty indifferent to this, or see it as a vaguely amusing quirk at most. But for some it goes much further and they believe mirror hours have a mystical or even spiritual meaning, making them far more than just another minute in the day.
What kind of meaning are we talking about? How many different mirror hours are there? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why does not getting enough sleep make you selfish?
Is "quiet quitting" helping employees find a better work-life balance?
How is the #Periodsomnia campaign helping to close the period sleep gap?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
How can I ease my foot pain?
Feet carry our body weight and bear the impact of every step we take. Furthermore, they play an active role in balance control, thanks to sensors located along our tendons.
Whether you’re on the bus, relaxing at home, or taking a walk while listening to your favourite podcast, take a moment to look at your feet. Believe it or not, they account for a quarter of the bones in your body. Each foot has 14 phalanges, which are the toe bones in the forefoot, 5 metatarsals and 7 tarsals at the back of the foot forming the framework around the ankle and heel. On top of that, your feet are also made up of ligaments, muscles and joints. With all this, and 7200 nerve endings, it goes without saying that the feet are highly sensitive parts of the body.
What foot problems can you encounter? What are some tips for maintaining foot health? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why does not getting enough sleep make you selfish?
Is "quiet quitting" helping employees find a better work-life balance?
How is the #Periodsomnia campaign helping to close the period sleep gap?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
Why does not getting enough sleep make you selfish?
Not getting a good night’s sleep can certainly leave you feeling grumpy and groggy, but can it also make you selfish?
Sleep experts at the University of California, Berkeley certainly seem to think so, and apparently even losing just one hour of sleep is enough to make you less generous towards others and that includes friends and family.
How did they discover this? What impact could this have? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is "quiet quitting" helping employees find a better work-life balance?
How is the #Periodsomnia campaign helping to close the period sleep gap?
What is the windscreen phenomenon?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
[RERUN] What is empty nest syndrome?
With the summer holiday season drawing to a close, many university students are preparing to leave home for the first time and head to campus accommodation.
While they’re enjoying freshers week, chances are their parents may be finding it unsettling that their child is no longer present at home. That’s even more likely when it’s their last child who’s just left home. This form of grief is known as empty nest syndrome and it disproportionately affects mothers, who statistically tend to spend more time taking care of children than men, when it comes to heterosexual couples.
Why would that be a cause of sadness though? Shouldn’t parents be happy to see their children moving forwards in life? What can parents do to cope with empty nest syndrome? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Is "quiet quitting" helping employees find a better work-life balance?
How is the #Periodsomnia campaign helping to close the period sleep gap?
What is the windscreen phenomenon?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/6/2022 • 3 minutes, 59 seconds
Is "quiet quitting" helping employees find a better work-life balance?
"Quiet quitting" has been getting a lot of attention of late. So many young people have been rejecting “hustle culture”, which puts work at the centre of a person’s life and can lead to burnout.
On this podcast, we’ve talked about a lot of factors affecting young workers and their mental health in recent times. It’s pretty well established that the Covid pandemic was a game changer, in that flexible working models became the norm and everybody started reassessing their priorities in life. We’ve seen the Big Quit, also known as the Great Resignation, and the Tang Ping movement in China too. And “quiet quitting” is not dissimilar.
Is that like slipping out the back door? Is quiet quitting a good thing? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How is the #Periodsomnia campaign helping to close the period sleep gap?
What is the windscreen phenomenon?
How can I limit the effects of sugar on my health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/5/2022 • 4 minutes, 59 seconds
[RERUN] What is woofing?
Woofing consists of working on a farm while travelling to reduce costs. These volunteers help out their hosts for five half-days per week during their stay.
The world is still in the middle of a health crisis. And while travel has resumed with the reopening of borders, more sustainable tourism practices have come to the fore in the past two years. One such example is wwoofing, which started growing in popularity prior to the Covid pandemic. And no, it’s got nothing to do with dogs despite the name! The name is derived from the acronym WWOOF, standing for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms.
So if I work in woofing, do I get paid? So where does woofing come from? How do I become a woofer in the UK? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How is the #Periodsomnia campaign helping to close the period sleep gap?
What is the windscreen phenomenon?
How can I limit the effects of sugar on my health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
Why do I have white spots on my nails?
To understand where white spots come from, we must first explain how nail growth works.
If you’ve ever had white spots on your nails before, you may have been dismissively told that it's down to a lack of calcium or zinc. Basically, some mineral-deficiency. But this popular belief doesn’t really have any basis in fact. According to Healthline, nails grow an average of 3 millimeters per month. Their composition is made up of keratin, a protein, and just 0.03% calcium. So white spots are certainly not just a calcium problem!
What is the color of a healthy nail? What other colours can my nails turn? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How is the #Periodsomnia campaign helping to close the period sleep gap?
What is the windscreen phenomenon?
How can I limit the effects of sugar on my health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/3/2022 • 4 minutes, 1 second
How is the #Periodsomnia campaign helping to close the period sleep gap?
Periods can greatly impact sleep, which has led to what’s known as the period sleep gap.
Periods are different for everyone. Some people might have painful cramps, feel fatigued, or in some cases have no symptoms at all. But periods don’t just happen during the daytime. Periodsomnia is referring to the effect that menstruation can have on sleep. During menstruation, insomnia is far more frequent, and that can even have effects on lifespan.
What does that mean? Why does menstruation affect sleep? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is the windscreen phenomenon?
How can I limit the effects of sugar on my health?
What is 3-MMC, the latest designer drug to hit Europe?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
What is the windscreen phenomenon?
The windscreen phenomenon is the observation of the gradual disappearance of insects on the planet.
If you regularly use your car for long trips, you’re probably accustomed to seeing squashed flies, wasps and gnats on your windscreen from time to time. This is totally normal, but in recent years, it’s become a much rarer sight for drivers, and the significance is greater than you might first think.
Isn’t not having to scrape dead insects off the windscreen a good thing? How can we be so sure that insects are disappearing? Could it just be an impression? What’s causing this decrease in insect population then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I limit the effects of sugar on my health?
What is 3-MMC, the latest designer drug to hit Europe?
Why is yawning contagious?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/1/2022 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
[RERUN] What is HouseParty?
HouseParty is a video chat app that was created in the United States in 2016 and became particularly popular among millennials. Those who download it use it for an average of 51 minutes per day. That’s comparable to Facebook and higher than other popular apps like Instagram, Messenger and Snapchat.
What is HouseParty?
The coronavirus-related lockdowns have led to a resurgence in the app’s popularity around the world. It was downloaded 50 million times in the space of just a month, which is 70 times more than usual. Other video chat services, like Zoom and Skype, are often used by companies for remote work, whereas HouseParty is mainly aimed at younger generations. That gives it more of a fun image than its rivals.
OK so what can I do with HouseParty then? But, are there any privacy issues? Should I avoid using HouseParty then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
How can I limit the effects of sugar on my health?
What is 3-MMC, the latest designer drug to hit Europe?
Why is yawning contagious?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/1/2022 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
How can I limit the effects of sugar on my health?
High blood sugar can make your mouth dry, make you feel thirsty, give you blurred vision and make you need to pee often. This is known as hyperglycemia.
When we think of those who have high blood sugar, we tend to think of people with diabetes, as they often have to monitor their levels and sometimes undergo insulin treatment. But actually everybody can have blood sugar spikes, and many of us do without even realising. These occur when a simple sugar called glucose builds up in the blood.
Do I need to be cutting sugar out of my diet completely then? What can I do about it then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
What is 3-MMC, the latest designer drug to hit Europe?
Why is yawning contagious?
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/31/2022 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
What is 3-MMC, the latest designer drug to hit Europe?
One of the most rapidly increasing synthetic cathinones is 3-Methylmethcathinone, or 3-MMC for short. In March 2022, the European Commission announced new measures to control the substance.
The UK MDMA drug market has seen great change following Brexit and the Covid pandemic. A study carried out by non-profit The Loop found that there was a surprising decrease in MDMA detection between 2019 and 2021. SON - ding But on the other hand, there was a striking increase in the use of synthetic cathinones, which are effectively chemical cousins to other stimulants like MDMA and amphetamine.
What are the effects of 3-MMC? What are the risks associated with taking 3-MMC? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is yawning contagious?
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Ukrainian International Legion?
In the days following the start of the invasion, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky created the country’s International Legion and appealed to foreign nationals to join.
Since the invasion of Ukraine began on 24th February 2022, governments have been reluctant to send troops into the warzone, despite expressing outrage at Russian aggression. Nevertheless, media reports have shed light on the thousands of foreign citizens, mostly men, leaving worried families behind to travel to Ukraine. On the ground, they’re fighting, providing first aid and helping displaced people leave the country.
Where are all these volunteer soldiers coming from? So why are they risking their lives for a war not involving their home country? Are volunteers actually allowed to leave their home country to go to war? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Why is yawning contagious?
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
Why is yawning contagious?
We all yawn regularly, without giving it much thought most of the time. Harvard Health Publishing says that people yawn between 5 and 20 times per day on average. Indeed, it’s a completely involuntary reflex which sets in very early on in our existence, as fetuses in our mother’s womb.
Yawning mobilizes the respiratory, face and neck muscles, and is often associated with a feeling of relaxation and well-being. Nevertheless, it’s often perceived as something we do when we’re bored or tired. As a result, it can be considered impolite to yawn when someone else is talking or without placing your hand over your mouth.
Does yawning serve a purpose? So why do I yawn when my partner does, even if I’m not tired? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the latest episodes, click here:
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
Does voluntourism do more harm than good?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/29/2022 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
[RERUN] What is cyclothymia?
The term cyclothymia was coined in the late 19th century by German psychiatrist Karl Ludwig Kahlbaum. It describes a clinical situation which has many similarities with bipolar disorder, although its symptoms are less severe.
We talk about something being a disorder when it has an impact on everyday life, and that’s the case with cyclothymia. It usually comes on during adolescence or early adulthood. Those affected are highly sensitive and can quickly change moods in an intense way. During the depressive phase, they may suddenly lose all enthusiasm for something that interested them before, like exercise or work. At other times, they may have inflated self-esteem, be more talkative, hyperactive or unpredictable. This phase is known as hypomania and usually lasts four or more days.
So how is cyclothymia different from bipolar disorder? Why is it so difficult to diagnose then? Is cyclothymia a curable disorder? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Should I quit air travel to save the planet?
Could vanlife be a lifestyle choice for me?
How does Paris syndrome affect some visitors to the French capital?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
What is Burning Man, the mysterious desert gathering?
From 28th August to 5th September 2022, Burning Man is set to return to the Black Rock Desert in Nevada for the first time since 2019, with an authorised population of 87,000 people.
This event sees artists, creators and community-makers gather to celebrate self-expression. Every August, a temporary real city is set up to accommodate the festival. It actually becomes one of the most populated cities in Nevada during the event. Festivities end with a huge bonfire, where a large wooden effigy is burned, hence the name.
How did the event come to be? What happens during the event? Why is there a Burning Man? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Should I quit air travel to save the planet?
Could vanlife be a lifestyle choice for me?
How does Paris syndrome affect some visitors to the French capital?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/27/2022 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
Should we all be working a 4 day week?
One of the unsuspected consequences of a global pandemic is a re-evaluation not only of how we work but what work means to us.
For some the flexibility was a breath of fresh air, others missed the office and even the commute but with employee happiness more important than ever and people feeling overwhelmed and stressed at work the question of how to achieve a work-life balance has never been more important. One approach is the 4 day week.
But how will they keep productivity the same? So how is it going so far? Could the 4 day week be the new normal? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
Does voluntourism do more harm than good?
A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/27/2022 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
Should I quit air travel to save the planet?
Flying is far from being the most eco-friendly means of transport. Right now it’s responsible for around 2% of global carbon emissions, but that could grow to as high as 16% by 2050.
With the notable exception of travel restrictions in the last two years, the airline industry has gradually been transporting more and more passengers for decades now. While that continued growth is impressive, we have to recognise that along with it come certain undesirable effects on the environment. Now that the climate crisis is all the more undeniable, could we see the general trend reversing at some point? Certain environmentalists gave up flying long ago to limit their carbon footprint. Greta Thunberg is one prominent example.
Can individuals really make a difference? Isn’t taking the train way more expensive and time-consuming? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Could vanlife be a lifestyle choice for me?
How does Paris syndrome affect some visitors to the French capital?
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
Could vanlife be a lifestyle choice for me?
The last two and a half years have caused a lot of us to reassess our priorities in life. Are we really living our lives to the full? Are there new experiences that we should be trying out? Within that context, an alternative nomadic lifestyle called vanlife has seen a resurgence.
It’s been around since the 1960s, when hippies would travel across the United States in vans. But social media has made it trendy again, and in particular Instagram where the #vanlife hashtag has over 13 million posts. Essentially, vanlife is pretty much exactly what it sounds like: living in a van. It’s a minimalist lifestyle, which also grants the freedom to travel and be adventurous.
What are some of the coolest things about vanlife? How do I know if the van lifestyle is for me? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How does Paris syndrome affect some visitors to the French capital?
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/25/2022 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
[RERUN] What is last chance tourism?
Last chance tourism is a travel trend whereby tourists increasingly seek to experience the world’s most endangered sites before they vanish or are irrevocably transformed, according to the definition given by the Current Issues in Tourism magazine.
Last chance tourism is also sometimes referred to as doomsday tourism. The term was first coined in the early 2010s in Britain, before catching on in other countries. So basically, last chance tourism is a way of kissing some of the Earth's most spectacular sites goodbye.
What kind of endangered sites are we talking about? One would think an influx of tourists will only contribute to these sites’ deterioration. Is that the case? What can we do to put an end to last-chance tourism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How does Paris syndrome affect some visitors to the French capital?
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/25/2022 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
How does Paris syndrome affect some visitors to the French capital?
Some visitors can be so shocked by the reality of Paris compared to their expectations that they can experience psychiatric breakdowns or symptoms such as hallucinations, depersonalization, anxiety, dizziness and nausea. This is known as the Paris Syndrome.
Romance, sophistication, croissants and sipping fine wine with the Eiffel Tower in the background spring to mind when thinking of a visit to Paris. With such a romanticized notion of the French capital, it’s no surprise that this remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with 33 million expected in 2022, according to Le Monde. But it seems that the reality of Paris is more than what some visitors’ stomachs can handle.
Why do some visitors have such unrealistic expectations of Paris? How do you actually explain the physical symptoms? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
Does voluntourism do more harm than good?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/24/2022 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
Can I get health benefits from masturbation?
Masturbation tends to be somewhat of a taboo topic in society, often down to religious or spiritual beliefs.
You’ve probably also heard some of the common myths about it leading to blindness, erectile dysfunction or infertility. Needless to say, these are false. And the air of shame around masturbation need not be there, as it’s perfectly natural and in fact there are several health benefits.
What are some of these benefits then? Does masturbating affect men and women differently? Is there a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ way to masturbate? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
Does voluntourism do more harm than good?
Why am I getting bags and circles under my eyes?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/23/2022 • 3 minutes, 59 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Azov Battalion?
The Azov Battalion takes its name from the Sea of Azov which is bounded by Ukraine and Russia.
You’ve more than likely seen images of these Ukrainian fighters on social media since the Russian invasion began in late February. They can be recognised by their tattoos and Nazi emblems on their uniforms. The neo-Nazi group are battling at the heart of the Ukrainian army, which has led to Vladimir Putin justifying Russian aggression by saying he wants to “denazify” Ukraine. Many see this as a pretext, especially when you consider that his Ukrainian counterpart Volodylyr Zelensky is himself Jewish.
Is the Battalion part of the Ukrainian army then? So are they really neo Nazis? What role is the Azov Battalion playing in the ongoing conflict? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
Does voluntourism do more harm than good?
Why am I getting bags and circles under my eyes?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/23/2022 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
How have dating apps broken into the friendship market?
One of the biggest indirect impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic has been that on people’s mental health. Limited social interactions have led to feelings of loneliness increasing for many, all across the world.
In light of this, it comes as no surprise that people have been actively seeking friendships and connections with others more than ever before. Data from Tinder suggests that the average number of conversations, and the average length of conversations, increased during lockdown.
What are some examples? How do these friendship apps work? Why do people use friendship apps? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Does voluntourism do more harm than good?
Why am I getting bags and circles under my eyes?
Should my next holiday be a staycation?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
[RERUN] What is Oceanix City?
It might sound like a theme park or the latest sci-fi comic series, but Oceanix City is actually a futuristic architecture project thought out for the climate refugees of years to come. It’s a mobile floating city, designed to welcome those whose homes are under threat from rising sea levels.
That could apply to a high percentage of the world’s population in the not so distant future, as it’s estimated 90% of coastal cities will be affected by 2050. Furthermore, living near the sea comes with more and more challenges these days. Insurers are hesitant at the idea of covering damages caused by natural disasters.
How did the Oceanix City project get off the ground? What do these floating cities actually look like then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we get verrucas?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/21/2022 • 4 minutes
Is remote work here to stay?
COVID-19 lockdowns led to the revolutionary rise of remote work. But while working remotely may have been a necessary adaptation made during an unprecedented global health crisis, many experts say that not only is remote work here to stay, it will even continue to increase as we head into 2023.
Employees save time and money by not having to commute, and they essentially have more control over their work environment, which can lead to increased creativity. With jobs becoming less location-specific, businesses can also benefit, one example being that they have a larger pool of talent to hire from.
What are the main benefits? Is going fully remote the best work model? What can we expect remote work to look like in the future? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Does voluntourism do more harm than good?
Why am I getting bags and circles under my eyes?
Should my next holiday be a staycation?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
[FARNIENTE] What is a heatwave?
This summer, relax and learn with Do You Really Know! It's time to learn all about the concepts, words and expressions that surround the summer season!
What is a heatwave?
We’re experiencing more intense and frequent heatwaves than ever before, and it’s one of the most tangible effects of climate change. These summer periods of extreme heat are a threat to the elderly, children and the poor. To meet the World Meteorological Organization’s definition of a heatwave, the period must last 5 days or longer. The daily maximum temperature must also be at least 5° higher than the average maximum temperature. This means the requirements can vary by region. Some nations have their own definition of a heatwave. For example, the UK’s Met Office uses a system called Heat Health Watch. To determine whether a heatwave is occurring, the maximum daytime temperature and minimum nighttime temperature are compared to regional thresholds. A four-level system is used to score each Local Authority area, with Level 4 being the highest.
So what actually causes a heatwave then? What are the guidelines? Who has the greater risks? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we get verrucas?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/20/2022 • 5 minutes, 12 seconds
Is revenge travel THE tourism trend of summer 2022?
Tourism is one of the world's major economic sectors. According to the UN World Tourism Organisation, tourism supports 1 in 10 jobs, and indirectly provides income and livelihoods for millions more globally. It was one of the sectors that was hit the hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it is showing signs of rapid recovery due to the new trend of “revenge travel”.
It’s the term given to the surge in travel after two years of restrictions that have now been lifted. People are taking their “revenge” against COVID for all the travelling they missed out on: visits to, rescheduling cancelled holidays, or just finally ticking a new place off their bucket list.
What are the impacts? Why is it happening? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why am I getting bags and circles under my eyes?
Should my next holiday be a staycation?
Can going braless be good for you?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
[FARNIENTE] What is an eco-friendly beach?
This summer, relax and learn with Do You Really Know! It's time to learn all about the concepts, words and expressions that surround the summer season!
What is an eco-friendly beach?
For many people, beaches are synonymous with the summer holiday season. Beach holidays have been popular since the second half of the 19th century, and are the archetypal form of mass tourism. With millions of people indulging in such getaways each year, it goes without saying that there’s a significant environmental impact. We regularly get riled when seeing pictures of beaches covered in plastic bottles, or turtles choking on straws. Around 10 million tonnes of waste end up in the ocean each year, with tourism hotspots creating 26% more than other cities.
Are you saying my new eco-friendly lifestyle isn’t compatible with a beach holiday? Wait a minute, should we stop using sunscreen then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we get verrucas?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
Does voluntourism do more harm than good?
Voluntourism is the practice of volunteering one’s labour to a charitable cause in a developing country, in return for a soul-cleansing, perspective-changing, CV-bolstering experience. Perhaps a bit cynical?
Whilst it could be a mutually beneficial redistribution of wealth from the developed world to the developing, voluntourism harbours a dark and exploitative underworld. In 2021, NPR.org reported that the industry was worth an estimated $3 billion per year, according to University of Strathclyde lecturer Konstantinos Tomazos.
Can it really be that bad? Is voluntourism at all beneficial? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Should my next holiday be a staycation?
Can going braless be good for you?
Why do we get verrucas?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/18/2022 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
[FARNIENTE] What is a heat dome?
This summer, relax and learn with Do You Really Know! It's time to learn all about the concepts, words and expressions that surround the summer season!
What is a heat dome?
The Pacific north-west is typically a mild region when it comes to weather. But in late June, Western Canada experienced record temperatures, with the province of British Columbia hit particularly hard. Temperatures are usually around 21° on the Pacific coast, but reached 49.5°C in Lytton, a village around 100 miles to the North-east of Vancouver. Cities on the other side of the border weren’t spared either, with Portland and Seattle both seeing their respective record temperatures smashed. We’re used to talk of heatwaves, but observers have labelled the latest situation a heat dome.
What’s the science behind these extreme temperatures? How dangerous is the heat dome? To what extent are heat domes due to climate change? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we get verrucas?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/18/2022 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
Why am I getting bags and circles under my eyes?
Nobody likes getting up in the morning and looking in the mirror to find dreary bags and circles under their eyes.
It can make you look tired and lower your self-confidence as you head to work, feeling like a zombie. But it’s more than just an aesthetic issue. More often than not, it’s an indication of poor health habits, and sometimes a sign of underlying medical conditions.
So what actually causes those dreary circles? How worried should you be about seeing bags and circles under your eyes? What’s the best way to deal with them then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we get verrucas?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/17/2022 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
[FARNIENTE] What is sea snot?
This summer, relax and learn with Do You Really Know! It's time to learn all about the concepts, words and expressions that surround the summer season!
What is sea snot?
In the last few weeks, a thick and foul-smelling foam known as mucilage has appeared in the Marmara Sea on Turkey’s northwestern coast. It’s been unofficially dubbed sea snot by observers, which might sound like a name invented on a school playground. But there’s nothing funny about the environmental impact of this outbreak, which is a result of global warming and pollution.
How does this sea snot actually develop? Is this the first time the Marmara Sea has been impacted by sea snot? Do we know what the impact could be? Is there a way to make this sea snot disappear? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we get verrucas?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/17/2022 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
Should my next holiday be a staycation?
Going on holiday is cool, but not always within reach for everyone. It requires time, as you may need to get your leave request approved by your employer, and money. In recent years, a new kind of holiday has been catching on: the staycation.
It generally refers to a trip which doesn’t require any overnight accommodation. The idea comes from the United States and really took off following the financial crisis from 2007 onwards. Middle class Americans no longer had the means to go on holiday, so they got creative. The idea then spread to Europe, and more specifically the UK, in 2009, when currency exchange rates became unfavourable.
Isn’t that kind of the opposite of a holiday? Is it really possible to relax while surrounded by reminders of work and stress? How has the staycation concept evolved in the last few years? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we get verrucas?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
[FARNIENTE] What is vitamin D?
This summer, relax and learn with Do You Really Know! It's time to learn all about the concepts, words and expressions that surround the summer season!
What is vitamin D?
Vitamin D was discovered in 1922 by American biochemist Elmer McCollum, who was nicknamed Dr Vitamin by Time Magazine. He found that cod liver oil could still prevent rickets in rats, despite its vitamin A having been removed. From this observation, he deduced that it contained a different substance which he called vitamin D. A sufficient quantity of vitamin D is necessary during early childhood years in order to prevent rickets. In adults, it protects against osteoporosis and the deterioration of bone tissue. It also plays an important part in preventing breast cancer and colon cancer.
How do we produce or find Vitamin D then? But how does sunblock work then? What about skin colour; does that impact our ability to produce Vitamin D? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we get verrucas?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
Can going braless be good for you?
Research released in 2021 by Censuswide for Tu found that nearly 46% of women ditched nearly 46% of women ditched their bras at least once a week during Covid-19 lockdowns in the name of comfort.
And it seems the trend may be lasting despite the worst of Covid hopefully being behind us. We’ve recently seen A-Listers like Dua Lipa, Kirsten Stewart and Lily Allen go braless in public, with the Daily Mail referring to “the great underwear-free revolution that started during lockdown”.
What is the point of bras? Why would there be an “underwear-free revolution” if bras have all these benefits? Should women ditch the bras? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Is Bullet Train the new John Wick?
How does "death cleaning" help you declutter your life?
Why do we get verrucas?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
[FARNIENTE] What is the No Bra movement ?
This summer, relax and learn with Do You Really Know! It's time to learn all about the concepts, words and expressions that surround the summer season!
What is the No Bra movement?
For women, wearing a bra to support their breasts may seem vital from puberty onwards. However, it’s claimed that bras may in fact be useless or even dangerous, which has led some to promote the No Bra movement. It has been linked to feminism, and isn’t universally accepted or popular. Bras were invented at the end of the 19th century, gradually replacing corsets and revolutionising women’s daily lives. Since then, wearing the undergarment has become an automatic reflex and a rite of passage for girls when they start to develop into young women. Designs have evolved a lot over the years, for example the standard model in the 2000s was padded, making breasts look round and high. Going braless in public would be seen a bit like going out with no panties.
Do we really need bras? Isn't it difficult putting up with others looking at your nipples through your top? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we get verrucas?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
[RERUN] What are zombie fires?
Believe it or not, some fires are able to smolder for months underneath snow, even when their flames have been extinguished above ground.
Researchers and forest rangers have been aware of the existence of these zombie fires in the Arctic Circle for many years now. But a study published in Nature magazine on May 19th revealed the full extent of the issue. It turns out the threat they pose to boreal forests and the climate as a whole is greater than we previously knew.
How can a fire resist cold and ice? Is global warming making it worse? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we get verrucas?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
Is Bullet Train the new John Wick?
Those despairing at John Wick Chapter Four being delayed need not count down until March 2023. David Leitch, the director of Deadpool 2 and producer of the original John Wick, presents Bullet Train, which hit UK cinemas on 3rd August 2022.
For once, the summer’s big blockbuster isn’t a superhero film, a sequel or a remake! It’s a slick and high octane film with more-or-less all of the action condensed into the setting of a high speed train in Tokyo.
Is it not just a John Wick copycat? So how is it any different? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How does "death cleaning" help you declutter your life?
Why do we get verrucas?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/13/2022 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
How does "death cleaning" help you declutter your life?
Back in 2010, Japanese writer Mari Kondo changed how we think about organisation and decluttering with her bestseller The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up. Behind the book’s grand title is a simple premise: anything that doesn’t bring you joy should be thrown away.
Since then, a new and somewhat similar trend caught on in the late 2010s: death cleaning. It’s mainly designed for people entering the final stages of their life, and making sure they don’t overboard before passing away. People started talking about death cleaning in 2018, when Stockholm-based artist and widow Margareta Magnusson published a book called The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning. Since then, the trend has started catching on. The name comes from the Swedish döstädning: a combination of the word “dö”, which means death, and “standing”, which means cleaning.
How did Magnusson come up with the term? Where does death cleaning fit in alongside other minimalist trends? From what age do people start death cleaning? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we get verrucas?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/12/2022 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
Why do we get verrucas?
Why do we get verrucas?
Also known as plantar warts, verrucas are usually found on the soles of the feet, but can sometimes be seen between the toes or on the heels too. You may remember catching one at your school swimming lessons as a child. Verrucas have a reputation for being a nuisance. Firstly, let’s face it, like all kinds of warts they’re pretty unsightly. They look like small, rough, thickened skin. But that’s not the only reason why they’re a pain. If you’re unlucky, they can take time to go away, and come back over and over again. Verrucas are grown inwards and have a black pinpoint in the centre which is called the “wart seed”. That’s basically where your blood has clotted on the surface of your skin.
So what are the main causes behind verrucas then? Are they dangerous? Do you have any tips for avoiding getting a verruca? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
Am I in a situationship?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/11/2022 • 3 minutes, 52 seconds
[RERUN] What is the social credit system?
What is the social credit system?
With a population of 1.4 billion inhabitants and a surface area 39 times larger than that of the UK, China has seen mass surveillance systems rolled out in recent decades. Take video surveillance and facial recognition for example, with over 600 million security cameras throughout the country. Or the controlling and censorship of the country’s most popular social network WeChat. And now the Chinese authorities are taking this to the next level, with the social credit system that evaluates citizens’ behaviour and perceived trustworthiness.
So how does the system work? It sounds like Black Mirror or 1984! Aren’t the country’s laws enough? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
Am I in a situationship?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/11/2022 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming?
The subject of today’s episode is a relatively recent addition to the ever growing list of terms relating to climate change. American writer Emma Pattee introduced the idea of the climate shadow in a blog post for Mic.com in December 2021, as a more comprehensive metric for each person’s impact on the climate crisis.
What exactly contributes to my climate shadow? Isn’t that very similar to a carbon footprint? How useful is the concept of a climate shadow? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
Am I in a situationship?
Why should I eat more fermented foods?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/10/2022 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
Why do our bodies need magnesium?
Do you suffer from twitching eyes, muscle spasms, restless sleep and irritability? If so, there’s a chance it might just be down to a magnesium deficiency. Indeed, that was the case for as many as 70% of the 8,000 Brits who took part in an 18-month study by testing company Mineral Check from August 2014 to January 2016. And it’s something of a big deal. Magnesium is an essential nutrient which is needed for over 300 biochemical reactions in the human body, contributing to a wide range of muscle and nerve functions, as well as building strong bones and regulating blood sugar. An adult human body contains around 25 grams of magnesium, which is mostly stored in the bones, muscles and nerve cells.
How can I know if I’m low on magnesium? What’s the best way to treat a deficiency? In that case, do we need to be taking supplements? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Am I in a situationship?
Why should I eat more fermented foods?
What is trauma dumping, the toxic equivalent of oversharing?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
[RERUN] What is begpacking ?
What is begpacking ?
Begpacking is a portmanteau word, combining the words ‘begging’ and ‘backpacking’. It essentially means begging in order to fund a journey, and the practice has come in for criticism from many quarters. Begpackers are mainly young Westerners travelling around the world, particularly in Asia. Some offer hugs or play music in exchange for money. Others simply sit in the street behind a sign reading “Help us to travel around the world”. Each begpacker has their own personal situation. Some may be broke, others simply craving further adventures.
So basically, it’s like that show Lost from the early 2000s? What about rich people begging for money in poor countries? Isn't it unethical? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Am I in a situationship?
Why should I eat more fermented foods?
What is trauma dumping, the toxic equivalent of oversharing?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
Am I in a situationship?
Am I in a situationship?
Sometimes there’s a very thin line between friendship and love. You spend time with someone, you’ve got things in common, you make each other laugh.Things can easily get blurry. Imagine you’ve recently met someone and really hit it off; you’re at each other’s places all the time, maybe you’ve even kissed once or twice on a night out. Maybe it’s gone further than that. A Define the Relationship conversation or DTR for short, is a useful, if sometimes awkward chat that many people have when in a blossoming relationship.
What are the telltale signs? Why are more and more people winding up in situationships? How can I avoid a situationship? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why should I eat more fermented foods?
What is trauma dumping, the toxic equivalent of oversharing?
How did Feta cheese end up causing an international legal battle?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/8/2022 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
[RERUN] What is the offside rule?
What is the offside rule?
Now, now, let’s not get carried away. England may have beaten old rivals Germany on Tuesday evening to seal a place in the Euro 2020 quarter finals, but they still need to win three more matches to lift the trophy at Wembley on July 11th. In the meantime, let’s talk about one of football’s oldest and yet still most confusing rules: law 11, more commonly known as offside. It’s the first time that video refereeing is being used at a European Championships tournament, and it’s been used to confirm or reverse a number of crucial offside decisions.
So how does the offside rule work then? How has the offside rule evolved over the years? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why should I eat more fermented foods?
What is trauma dumping, the toxic equivalent of oversharing?
How did Feta cheese end up causing an international legal battle?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
What’s the best sleeping position?
What’s the best sleeping position?
Side, stomach or back; what kind of sleeper are you? Some people say that our sleeping position reflects what kind of person we are. While we can’t really comment on how much truth there is to that, we can say for sure that it has an impact on sleep quality and consequently our mood in the morning. Let’s take a few minutes to talk about our personal favourites.
Well I usually sleep on my back with my arms over my head! Is that good or bad? What about stomach sleeping? What about the snorers out there? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why should I eat more fermented foods?
What is trauma dumping, the toxic equivalent of oversharing?
How did Feta cheese end up causing an international legal battle?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
Why should I eat more fermented foods?
Why should I eat more fermented foods?
Each year, International Beer Day is celebrated on the first Friday of August. As you may know, beer is produced using only four ingredients: water, hops, malt and yeast, through a process called fermentation. Of course beer is harmful in excessive quantities, but don’t let that give you any misconceptions about fermented foods. Generally speaking, they play an important role in boosting gut health. There are many other alcohol-free alternatives too, if you’re looking for a fermented beverage. These include kombucha, a fermented tea which contains B vitamins and vitamin C, and kefir, which is a kind of fermented milk.
How do fermented foods interact with our bodies? How does fermentation actually work? How can I get started producing homemade fermented foods? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is trauma dumping, the toxic equivalent of oversharing?
How did Feta cheese end up causing an international legal battle?
Why is Y2K style coming back into fashion?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/5/2022 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
What is trauma dumping, the toxic equivalent of oversharing?
What is trauma dumping, the toxic equivalent of oversharing?
It’s common for good friends to tell each other about pretty much everything going on in their lives. Within healthy friendships, it’s a way of bonding and supporting one another, especially when one of the friends is struggling. But sometimes this goes drastically overboard, and someone shares something really personal and traumatic without prior warning or getting permission. That kind of unsolicited oversharing has been labelled trauma dumping. Bear in mind trauma dumping is not a clinical term. It caught on online, after a woman, apparently a therapist, posted a video on Tiktok deriding one of her patients. She used the caption “When a client wants to trauma dump first session”.
Wait a minute, aren’t therapists supposed to be there to listen to your problems? What are the negative consequences of trauma dumping? What’s the best way to deal with trauma dumping? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How did Feta cheese end up causing an international legal battle?
Why is Y2K style coming back into fashion?
Do I have generalised anxiety disorder?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Smurfette Principle?
What is the Smurfette Principle?
Does that ring a bell? How many of you spent hours in front of the Smurfs as children? We’re sure you remember the smiley little girl with blond hair, a white dress and high heels. In case your memory has faded, in the wonderful world of the Smurfs, Smurfette is created by the evil wizard Gargamel to sow discord! How curious that the role of agitator is reserved for a female character, don’t you think?! Add to that the fact that the Smurfville population is exclusively male, until the arrival of the lone Smurfette. That’s where the idea of the Smurfette Principle comes from. It’s mainly to do with the overrepresentation of male figures as protagonists in works of fiction, to the detriment of female characters.
How can you base a whole theory on a single cartoon? What’s wrong with that? It’s fiction after all and fiction can write its own rules, can’t it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How did Feta cheese end up causing an international legal battle?
Why is Y2K style coming back into fashion?
Do I have generalised anxiety disorder?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
How did Feta cheese end up causing an international legal battle?
How did Feta cheese end up causing an international legal battle?
Feta cheese is undoubtedly a star ingredient when it comes to summer salads. It goes without saying it plays a starring role in the Greek salad, but it can also add a savoury taste to other recipes like the watermelon salad for example. That’s one of Kate Middleton’s favourites. But this summer feta isn’t only getting attention by featuring in salad recipes. It’s also made headlines in European political news, due to what was lightheartedly labelled the “feta battle” between Greece and Denmark.
What are the characteristics of feta? So what’s the feta battle all about? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why is Y2K style coming back into fashion?
Do I have generalised anxiety disorder?
Why do friend breakups hurt so much?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/3/2022 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
Why is Y2K style coming back into fashion?
Why is Y2K style coming back into fashion?
If you’re a millennial, you may feel like you’ve been transported back to your teens in recent times, given what young people are wearing. Rest assured, you’re not going crazy. The early 2020s have indeed seen a revival of what’s known as Y2K style.
It’s been influenced by celebs like Bella Hadid, Dua Lipa and Rihanna, who have made frequent nods to the look with their outfits. And of course the trend has spread via social media too. At the time of recording, the hashtags #y2Kaesthetic and #y2Kfashion had over 1.7bn views combined on Tiktok.
Refresh my memory, what actually is Y2K fashion? Why has the Y2K revival happened? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Do I have generalised anxiety disorder?
Why do friend breakups hurt so much?
Who are the RMT, the organisation creating massive travel disruption across the UK?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
[RERUN] What is the three-finger salute?
What is the three-finger salute?
Since the start of February, protesters in Myanmar have been pictured making a three-finger gesture as a symbol of opposition to the country’s recent coup d’état. They’ve taken to the streets to protest against what they see as an attack on democracy. Well it might look like a scout salute but it actually comes from the Hunger Games series of books and films.
So why are the protesters using the three-finger salute? Are you saying we can compare what’s going on in Myanmar to Hunger Games? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What are parasocial relationships, the one-sided connections between celebs and their fans?
Do I have generalised anxiety disorder?
Why do friend breakups hurt so much?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/2/2022 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
What are parasocial relationships, the one-sided connections between celebs and their fans?
What are parasocial relationships, the one-sided connections between celebs and their fans?
This kind of one-way relationship is generally between a fan and a public figure or fictional character. It’s about the feeling of familiarity or even friendship we feel for a celeb without ever actually having had any direct interaction with them. Most of the time of course, said celeb doesn’t even know we exist. After all, depending on their stature, they may have millions of fans, but there’s only one of them!
It’s a very modern-day phenomenon, isn’t it?! Are parasocial relationships problematic? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Do I have generalised anxiety disorder?
Why do friend breakups hurt so much?
Who are the RMT, the organisation creating massive travel disruption across the UK?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/1/2022 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
[RERUN] What is BookTok?
What is BookTok?
You’ve no doubt already heard of TikTok, the short video app of choice for teens and young adults. Well in the last few weeks a new trend has really taken off, and it’s known as BookTok. The idea is simple: recommend books to your Tiktok followers using the hashtag #BookTok. It’s really catching on and has even led to the emergence of literature enthusiast communities on the platform. The hashtag has been used millions of times since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Is it a new form of literary review then? What kinds of books are covered? So is there such a thing as Booktokers now then? Has the trend been having any other positive effects? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Do I have generalised anxiety disorder?
Why do friend breakups hurt so much?
Who are the RMT, the organisation creating massive travel disruption across the UK?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/31/2022 • 5 minutes, 1 second
What are the warning signs of a toxic friendship?
What are the warning signs of a toxic friendship?
Today is World Friendship Day, a chance to reflect on how important friends are in our lives. Generally speaking, having friends is a positive thing which brings us moments of fun and joy. But toxic friendships can exist too and in such cases, the relationship can be more of a burden than anything else, for one of the people involved at least! Let’s talk about some of the red flags that can help you identify them.
First things first, why is it called a toxic friendship? What are the most common toxic friend behaviours? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Do I have generalised anxiety disorder?
Why do friend breakups hurt so much?
Who are the RMT, the organisation creating massive travel disruption across the UK?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
[FRIENDSHIP DAY] What is care work?
On the occasion of World Friendship Day on 30 July, Do You Really Know puts the spotlight on this feeling that everyone knows. In the age of social networks, what form does friendship take today? What are the new ways to compose together? Discover these concepts, practices and initiatives that make up today's friendship!
What is care work?
This subcategory of the workforce includes jobs that provide services to other people. Despite doing work that is physically and emotionally demanding, care workers have long been underpaid and underappreciated in society. But since the start of the covid-19 pandemic, they have been widely hailed as heroes. In many countries, citizens under lockdown have been holding a minute’s applause from their balconies on a daily basis, in honour of care workers.
So, who exactly are we talking about? What are the demographics of care workers? And will care workers get greater recognition once the coronavirus pandemic calms down? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the dangerous Blackout challenge on Tiktok?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
Who invented emojis?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
Do I have generalised anxiety disorder?
Do I have generalised anxiety disorder?
Generalised anxiety disorder is a psychological condition, which affects around 3% of all people, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. But it seems to affect certain groups disproportionately. For example, women are twice as likely to be affected as men. Furthermore, less than half of people with GAD receive treatment.
What are the symptoms I should be looking out for? What’s the best way to go about seeking treatment? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do friend breakups hurt so much?
Who are the RMT, the organisation creating massive travel disruption across the UK?
Who are the Moonies, the church with ties to Japanese politicians?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/29/2022 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
[FRIENDSHIP DAY] What is Galentine's Day?
On the occasion of World Friendship Day on 30 July, Do You Really Know puts the spotlight on this feeling that everyone knows. In the age of social networks, what form does friendship take today? What are the new ways to compose together? Discover these concepts, practices and initiatives that make up today's friendship!
What is Galentine's Day?
With Valentine's Day less than a week away. But even though it's a highly commercialized tradition, many of you may find this holiday ridiculous, for a variety of reasons. For example, why should love only be celebrated within a couple? True friendships can be just as strong, so why shouldn’t we celebrate them in a similar way? Well, the creators of Galentine’s Day certainly think women can and should do so! The spin-off is celebrated on February 13th and as you’ve probably guessed from the name, it's a Valentine Day's alternative for gal pals.
Who came up with the idea? And what exactly happens at a Galentine's Day party? So Galentine's Day has crossed the borders of pop culture! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the dangerous Blackout challenge on Tiktok?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
Who invented emojis?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/29/2022 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
Why do friend breakups hurt so much?
Why do friend breakups hurt so much?
We all know that getting over romantic relationships can take time, sometimes weeks, months or years. Many poems, songs and film scenes have been dedicated to expressing the pain of dealing with such situations. But friendship heartbreaks don’t tend to get so much attention, even though they can hurt as much, or even more!
What are the main differences between these two types of breakup? What’s the best way to end a friendship then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Who are the RMT, the organisation creating massive travel disruption across the UK?
Who are the Moonies, the church with ties to Japanese politicians?
What is muscle dysmorphia?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
[FRIENDSHIP DAY] What is coliving?
On the occasion of World Friendship Day on 30 July, Do You Really Know puts the spotlight on this feeling that everyone knows. In the age of social networks, what form does friendship take today? What are the new ways to compose together? Discover these concepts, practices and initiatives that make up today's friendship!
What is coliving?
Born in the 2000s on the West Coast of the US, coliving is an emerging form of residential community living. Generally speaking, colivers each have their own private space within a shared property. They also share a number of other services. It’s kind of like a hybrid between a hotel and traditional flat-sharing. In cities like New York, Berlin or Tokyo, you can increasingly find this kind of living arrangement in buildings or large houses. Young workers have caught the bug, as have investors and real estate developers.
So what’s the difference between coliving and traditional flat-sharing? Which groups of people are most likely to try coliving? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the dangerous Blackout challenge on Tiktok?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
Who invented emojis?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
Who are the RMT, the organisation creating massive travel disruption across the UK?
Who are the RMT, the organisation creating massive travel disruption across the UK?
The UK is set for another day of disruption on 27th July, as the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers steps up its industrial action again. In the days leading up to the planned action, the union confirmed that the strike would go ahead as negotiations hit a wall. Over 40,000 workers are expected to walk out, including staff from Network Rail and 14 train operators. Passengers are advised not to travel, as less than 20% of planned services will be running. Some cities will have no train services at all, like Blackpool, Bournemouth and Portsmouth for example.
What are the strikes about then? How did the union become so powerful? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Who are the Moonies, the church with ties to Japanese politicians?
What is muscle dysmorphia?
Is running actually bad for our joints and bones?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/27/2022 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
[FRIENDSHIP DAY] What is fan fiction?
On the occasion of World Friendship Day on 30 July, Do You Really Know puts the spotlight on this feeling that everyone knows. In the age of social networks, what form does friendship take today? What are the new ways to compose together? Discover these concepts, practices and initiatives that make up today's friendship!
What is fan fiction?
Fan fiction refers to texts written by a fan using characters or storylines from another existing story, usually a popular novel, series, film or video game. They are also known as fanfics, and in the digital age, the quantity of such works is exploding! Fan fiction has even become recognised as a literary genre, and has created a unique niche for itself in the publishing industry. Fan fictions were first published in the 1960s and 70s. Star Trek fans have long been known for their passionate following. So it’s little surprise that Trekkies came up with the first early such texts in their fanzines. A similar trend emerged around the same time in Japan. Manga fans began producing independently published comics and novels, known as doujinshi.
What are the common characteristics of fan fiction then? It can’t be easy for an unknown writer to make a name for themselves creating fan fiction, right? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the dangerous Blackout challenge on Tiktok?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
Who invented emojis?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/27/2022 • 6 minutes, 1 second
[FRIENDSHIP DAY] What is TikTok?
On the occasion of World Friendship Day on 30 July, Do You Really Know puts the spotlight on this feeling that everyone knows. In the age of social networks, what form does friendship take today? What are the new ways to compose together? Discover these concepts, practices and initiatives that make up today's friendship!
What is TikTok?
Social network Tiktok allows users to publish short-form mobile videos. It’s been downloaded over 2 billion times since it was created in 2016, and its influence is growing bigger and bigger. That’s especially true within the music industry. There have been numerous success stories of new artists emerging on TikTok to become internet celebrities. The app has a reputation for being popular with members of Gen Z around the world. And the stats back it up; 70% of users are under the age of 25. With light-hearted features like comedy clips, dance choreographies and lip-syncing, it’s mostly seen as an entertainment app. Indeed, the “OK Boomer” catchphrase first went viral thanks to a TikTok clip.
It seems like harmless fun - why would anyone want to ban such an app? How did TikTok go from dance videos to political activism? What did TikTok users have to do with that? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the dangerous Blackout challenge on Tiktok?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
Who invented emojis?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 56 seconds
Who are the Moonies, the church with ties to Japanese politicians?
Who are the Moonies, the church with ties to Japanese politicians?
The whole world was shocked by the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in early July 2022. He was brutally shot in public while giving a speech at a campaign in the city of Nara. The attacker, a 41 year old former marine, was arrested on the spot. In the time since the assassination, some details have emerged of the killer’s motives. It seems to have been an act of revenge, based on Abe’s perceived links to a religious group called the Unification Church, also known as the Moonies.
How did we get to this theory? What’s the history of the Unification Church? How strong were Shinzo Abe’s links to the group? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is muscle dysmorphia?
Is running actually bad for our joints and bones?
Is drinking decaf bad for my health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
What is muscle dysmorphia?
What is muscle dysmorphia?
Muscle dysmorphia, also known as bigorexia or reverse anorexia, is an obsession with bulking up by working out. It’s caused by a person’s belief that their body is too skinny or lacking in muscle. The term “exercise addiction” was coined by psychiatrist William Glasser in the 1970s. More recently, it has been recognized as a potentially harmful condition. This addiction usually affects those who exercise excessively, mainly endurance sports participants and bodybuilders.
How does it affect their mental health ? What cause muscle dysmorphia ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Is running actually bad for our joints and bones?
Is drinking decaf bad for my health?
What is the dangerous Blackout challenge on Tiktok?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/25/2022 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
[FRIENDSHIP DAY] What is Generation Z?
On the occasion of World Friendship Day on 30 July, Do You Really Know puts the spotlight on this feeling that everyone knows. In the age of social networks, what form does friendship take today? What are the new ways to compose together? Discover these concepts, practices and initiatives that make up today's friendship!
What is Generation Z?
The term Generation Z refers to people born from around the end of the 1990s onwards. Like all generations, the group has its own supposed defining characteristics. Members of Generation Z are often labelled as hyper-digital, super idealist and even depressed. But what’s the scientific basis for all of this? The term Generation Z originated in 2012 from an online contest organised by the daily newspaper USA Today. OK, so it’s not the most original name, with Generation Z following on directly from Generation Y, also known as the millennials. They in turn followed on from Generation X.
So let’s say I was born in 96, am I X, Y or Z? Isn’t it a bit weird to make such a sweeping generalisation about tens of millions of people? If you look at an 18 year old in the USA and another in Indonesia, do they really have that much in common? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the dangerous Blackout challenge on Tiktok?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
Who invented emojis?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/25/2022 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
[RERUN] What are blue zones?
What are blue zones?
Humans have wondered about the secrets behind longevity since the beginning of time. Well, as it turns out, the world’s five blue zones offer some revealing insight into this mystery. In these regions, people seem to live longer than in the rest of the world. Researchers have sought to understand the unique lifestyles that may be behind this phenomenon. Let’s go back to the year 2000. Studying the province of Nuoro in Sardinia, Italian professor Gianni Pes and Belgian demographer Michel Poulain discovered to their great surprise that certain villages were home to a high number of people in their 90s or even over a hundred years old. The researchers marked these locations with blue circles which is how the non-scientific blue zone label was coined.
Where are the other four blue zones then? So what are the secrets behind these people’s long lifespans? Diet and exercise have something to do with it too? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Is running actually bad for our joints and bones?
Is drinking decaf bad for my health?
What is the dangerous Blackout challenge on Tiktok?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/24/2022 • 5 minutes, 13 seconds
What shady tactics have been uncovered by the Uber files leak?
What shady tactics have been uncovered by the Uber files leak?
The chances are at some point in your life you’ve taken an Uber ride, perhaps heading home from a night out, to get to the airport or when running late for work for example. The company’s rise to prominence over the last decade has been staggering, and it’s now worth over $40 billion. But the ride-sharing tech giant has had its fair share of controversy along the way. And less than two weeks ago, a massive leak called the Uber files saw the company again come under the spotlight for the wrong reasons. It stands accused of employing questionable tactics on its way to the top.
How did the scandal break out? How did Uber develop into the giant it is these days? What else did the leaks reveal? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Is running actually bad for our joints and bones?
Is drinking decaf bad for my health?
What is the dangerous Blackout challenge on Tiktok?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/23/2022 • 4 minutes, 59 seconds
Is running actually bad for our joints and bones?
Is running actually bad for our joints and bones?
Running is one of the most common forms of exercise, and it makes sense when you think about it. You can do it more or less anywhere and equipment costs are relatively low. But many people say running is bad for the human body, whether it be the back, knees or just bones in general. It’s often associated with an increased risk of developing osteoarthritis, a common joint disease. So is there any truth behind these assumptions? We’ve looked at a number of scientific studies to find out the facts.
Where does running get its bad reputation from then? Why do so many runners end up getting injured then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Is drinking decaf bad for my health?
What is the dangerous Blackout challenge on Tiktok?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
Is drinking decaf bad for my health?
Is drinking decaf bad for my health?
Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world, with an average of 98 million cups consumed in the UK every day, according to the British Coffee Association. In moderation, there are plenty of benefits to be gained from drinking coffee, but there can also be some negative side effects, in particular due to its caffeine content. Decaf is an alternative, but is it really healthier? Let’s look at the evidence.
What effects can caffeine have on our bodies? How is decaf actually produced? What about the benefits of drinking coffee? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the dangerous Blackout challenge on Tiktok?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
Who invented emojis?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/21/2022 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
[RERUN] What are tiny forests?
What are tiny forests?
Over the last few years, citizens have been planting tiny forests in towns and country settings. There are now over 2,000 across the world, all inspired by the Miyawaki method and designed to help prevent the collapse of biodiversity. Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki was born in 1928. While studying seeds and natural forests, he observed that the vast majority of Japanese forests were made by humans. Trees had been planted according to the quality of their wood, in order to build buildings or houses. The problem was that these trees weren’t the most resistant or efficient against global warming.
Don’t we already have a lot of forests in Europe? What is the environmental benefit of all this? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is the dangerous Blackout challenge on Tiktok?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
Who invented emojis?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/21/2022 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
What is the dangerous Blackout challenge on Tiktok?
What is the dangerous Blackout challenge on Tiktok?
Just last month, the parents of two deceased American girls decided to sue social network Tiktok. Lalani Erike Renee Walton and Arriani Jaileen Aroyo, aged eight and nine respectively, died in late 2021 while attempting the so-called Blackout Challenge. Their parents are arguing that Tiktok’s algorithm was designed to serve up the kind of dangerous content which led to the tragic deaths. Let’s listen to an extract of the Arroyo family talking to ABC News about the case.
How does the challenge work? What makes it so deadly? What does Tiktok have to say about the matter? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
Who invented emojis?
Why do we love hate-watching certain films and series?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
How can heatwaves impact our mental health?
The word heatwave is on everybody’s lips, with record temperatures expected in the UK this Tuesday, and the government having issued its first ever national emergency red alert for heat. It’s expected that hundreds or even thousands of excess deaths will be recorded. We’re all aware of the physical risks associated with extreme heat, like dehydration and fainting for example. But a number of scientific studies have shown that heatwaves also have a major impact on people’s mental health.
Who is most affected? What do researchers have to say about it? What about eco-anxiety? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Who invented emojis?
Why do we love hate-watching certain films and series?
How can the unisex condom improve my sex life?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
[RERUN] What is tokenism?
What is tokenism?
Have you ever got the feeling a company or organisation is preaching equality, but it all feels a bit fake? Well, you may be witnessing what’s known as tokenism. It’s a societal practice which is designed to prevent accusations of discrimination. It involves recruiting members of underrepresented groups to give an impression of equality. But more often than not, it’s easy to see through the facade.
Isn’t it a good thing to make minorities more visible? Which groups of people have been made into tokens in the past? What can society do better to address tokenism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Who invented emojis?
Why do we love hate-watching certain films and series?
How can the unisex condom improve my sex life?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
Who invented emojis?
Who invented emojis?
We all know them and use them; so today let’s celebrate them. World Emoji Day falls on 17th July. Yes that’s right, a day has been set aside for honouring the little pictograms we use to brighten up our digital messaging exchanges. You can find them in emails, messaging apps, and on social media. Everywhere really. But we’re so used to them that we don’t really think about who created them to start with, or how new ones emerge these days.
So what’s the difference between an emoticon, a smiley and an emoji then? Where do new emojis come from? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we love hate-watching certain films and series?
How can the unisex condom improve my sex life?
What is citizen science, the concept opening up research to the general public?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/18/2022 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
[RERUN] What is the insider-outsider theory?
What is the insider-outsider theory?
The insider-outsider theory is a New Keynesian economic model which developed in the 1980s, explaining certain disparities in the job market. Insiders are those who already have a job in a company, most of the time a permanent contract and having undergone expensive training. Meanwhile, outsiders are those with unstable jobs or unemployed. The theory considers whether, in a period of wide unemployment, companies would be better off replacing their insiders with outsiders, who would be likely to accept a lower salary. On the other hand, the resources needed to replace insiders can quickly add up. Think of severance packages, hiring processes and training for example. These labour turnover costs often end up being more expensive than the money saved by paying a lower salary.So it’s not really in a company’s best interests to fire its insiders.
Does that mean the insiders are in a position of strength then? Is there any hope for the outsiders then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we love hate-watching certain films and series?
How can the unisex condom improve my sex life?
What is citizen science, the concept opening up research to the general public?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/17/2022 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
How can I get the most out of daytime napping?
How can I get the most out of daytime napping?
Studies have repeatedly shown that human sleep quality is deteriorating year after year, for a number of reasons, including workaholic lifestyles and rising global temperatures. Daytime napping shouldn't be seen as a replacement for insufficient nighttime sleep, but there are a number of health benefits nevertheless. It’s actually pretty natural for our bodies too, and has long been ingrained in a number of cultures.
When’s the best time to have a nap then? How can I get off to sleep quickly? What evidence is there of the benefits of napping? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why do we love hate-watching certain films and series?
How can the unisex condom improve my sex life?
What is citizen science, the concept opening up research to the general public?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
Why do we love hate-watching certain films and series?
Why do we love hate-watching certain films and series?
Matchmaking reality TV show Love Island is a guilty pleasure for many of us, and it’s back on TV screens for the summer. The latest group of contestants have entered the villa, aiming to couple up and take home the £50,000 main prize. Love Island is a typical example of a show that people love to hate-watch. The practice has become more and more widespread in recent years with the rise of streaming platforms. It seems mutual hatred makes for a strong bond!
How exactly does one hate watch then? Why do people keep watching shows they don’t like? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can the unisex condom improve my sex life?
What is citizen science, the concept opening up research to the general public?
What are the benefits of slow sex?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
How did Better Call Saul nearly become a sitcom?
How did Better Call Saul nearly become a sitcom?
It’s somewhat of an event in the world of series. The five-episode final season of Better Call Saul was released earlier this week on Netflix. If you’re anything like us, you’ve been closely following the moral dilemmas of nice guy Jimmy McGill as he turns into shady lawyer Saul Goodman. So if you haven’t already binged your way through the final episodes, you must be on edge! It’s a fitting finale for a show which was launched back in 2015 as a spin off of Breaking Bad. Now Breaking Bad has long been seen as one of the best crime drama series out there, alongside the likes of The Wire and The Sopranos. So bringing out a prequel was somewhat risky. But it certainly ended up paying off. Many people rate Better Call Saul just as highly as Breaking Bad, if not higher.
Was the spin off series planned all along? What should we expect from the final episodes? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can the unisex condom improve my sex life?
What is citizen science, the concept opening up research to the general public?
What are the benefits of slow sex?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Big Quit?
What is the Big Quit?
Remember our episode on #QuitMyJob, about thousands of Americans publicly quitting their jobs on TikTok? Since then, the phenomenon has continued gaining momentum in the United States under a new name: the Great Resignation, or the Big Quit. According to a report published by the US Department of Labour on October 13, 2021, this August alone saw 4.3 million resignations nationwide. Count in the rest of summer and spring, and the figure jumps to a staggering 20 million. In the spirit of similar past initiatives, The Big Quit is yet another movement that offers resistance to unfair employers and unsafe working conditions.
What got this trend started then? Has the movement spread to other countries? Does the movement prompt companies to become more attractive by raising wages, for example? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
How can the unisex condom improve my sex life?
What is citizen science, the concept opening up research to the general public?
What are the benefits of slow sex?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
How can the unisex condom improve my sex life?
How can the unisex condom improve my sex life?
It was widely expected that the condom industry would thrive throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, but to many people’s surprise, it actually struggled. Malaysian world number one Karex actually lost 50% of its stock value. And talking of Malaysia, the country has seen a remarkable development in the field of gynecology, with Dr John Tang Ing Chinh creating creating the first ever unisex condom, known as Wondaleaf.
What does it look like and how much does it cost? Why do we need a unisex condom then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is citizen science, the concept opening up research to the general public?
What are the benefits of slow sex?
What is Roe vs Wade, the ruling that guaranteed American women abortion rights?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/13/2022 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
What is citizen science, the concept opening up research to the general public?
What is citizen science, the concept opening up research to the general public?
Also known as community science, citizen science is the active participation of amateurs or non-professional scientists in research. In recent years, it’s grown in a number of fields, becoming bigger and more networked thanks to new technologies and connectivity. It’s a link between professional researchers and volunteers who are interested in science and want to help it progress.
Why would we want civilians doing important scientific research? Who are these amateur scientists? Which fields in particular are involved? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What are the benefits of slow sex?
What is Roe vs Wade, the ruling that guaranteed American women abortion rights?
Could tourism quotas help preserve endangered local environments?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/12/2022 • 5 minutes, 19 seconds
[RERUN] What is OPEC?
What is OPEC?
The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries is an international cartel currently made up of thirteen member states. Over the years, it has played an important role in the global economy, coordinating the petroleum policies of its members. But right now, its influence is waning, due in no small part to the Covid-19 pandemic. OPEC was created in 1960 in Baghdad. At the time, there was a high level of competition between petrol companies, meaning prices were low. The main petrol-producing Arabic countries therefore decided to join forces to rival Western companies. Together, they decided to produce less petrol, forcing prices up as a result.
When was it created ? What’s the link between petroleum and a health crisis? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What are the benefits of slow sex?
What is Roe vs Wade, the ruling that guaranteed American women abortion rights?
Could tourism quotas help preserve endangered local environments?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/12/2022 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
What are the benefits of slow sex?
What are the benefits of slow sex?
We all know that having sex is a great form of stress relief. It releases pleasure hormones, like endorphins and oxytocin, also reinforcing the cardiovascular and immune systems. But slow sex may be a way of further enhancing pleasure and allowing you to fully savor the multi-sensory experience that is good sex. It doesn’t have to be a race to the finish line!
How does it differ from the kind of sex most people are having then? How can slow sex help partners to be more intimate? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is Roe vs Wade, the ruling that guaranteed American women abortion rights?
Could tourism quotas help preserve endangered local environments?
Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/11/2022 • 3 minutes, 36 seconds
[RERUN] What is Stendhal syndrome?
What is Stendhal syndrome?
Stendhal’s syndrome is a rare and unusual psychological disorder. It’s a psychosomatic condition whereby certain people suffer from a rapid heartbeat, fainting or even hallucinations, when exposed to objects or works of art of great beauty. The condition takes its name from a famous French writer who experienced a similar state of intense emotion upon visiting Rome, Naples and Florence. Stendhal wrote about his visit to Florence’s Santa Croce Basilica in a book entitled Naples and Florence: A journey from Milan to Reggio.
If I see something amazingly beautiful, I could just faint at any moment? Does it only happen in Florence? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is Roe vs Wade, the ruling that guaranteed American women abortion rights?
Could tourism quotas help preserve endangered local environments?
Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/10/2022 • 5 minutes
What are the latest advances in lung cancer treatment?
What are the latest advances in lung cancer treatment?
In April 2022, findings from the large scale CheckMate 816 clinical trial were presented to the American Association for Cancer Research. The trial looked into the effectiveness of immunotherapy drug Nivolumab, combined with chemotherapy to treat lung cancer patients. The findings were promising, showing that this particular treatment combination can delay the progression or return of cancer.
How common is lung cancer and how does it start? What are the most prominent treatment options? Should we expect this treatment to become used widely? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is Roe vs Wade, the ruling that guaranteed American women abortion rights?
Could tourism quotas help preserve endangered local environments?
Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/9/2022 • 5 minutes, 25 seconds
What is Roe vs Wade, the ruling that guaranteed American women abortion rights?
What is Roe vs Wade, the ruling that guaranteed American women abortion rights?
In late June 2022, the US Supreme Court controversially overturned the landmark Roe vs Wade decision which for decades protected women’s freedom to have an abortion anywhere in the country. Five of the six conservative judges sitting on the supreme court voted in favour of the reversal, ensuring a majority. US President Joe Biden said it was a “sad day for the court and for the country” and called on Americans to elect local candidates who will restore abortion rights. Other prominent Democrats like former President Barack Obama, and 2016 candidate Hillary Clinton, also made their dismay known. The historic overturning has drawn attention all around the world because of the unprecedented consequences it will have on women’s rights and essential freedoms.
How quickly will the impact of the decision be felt? How did the Roe vs Wade ruling first come around? Why has everything changed now? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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Could tourism quotas help preserve endangered local environments?
Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
Why will it be years before Ukraine could join the EU?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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7/8/2022 • 5 minutes, 1 second
Could tourism quotas help preserve endangered local environments?
Could tourism quotas help preserve endangered local environments?
The summer holiday period is upon us, but when planning our holidays it’s worth bearing in mind that overtourism has become a real nuisance. As tourists, it’s not exactly fun being in a highly overcrowded area, but it’s even worse for the natural environment. Could tourism quotas be one way of addressing the problems? In mid-June 2022, the island of Corsica brought in quotas for three iconic sites: the Bavella needles, the Restonica valley and the Lavezzi islands. 180,000 tourists visit these sites each year, a figure which is expected to rise to 200,000 by 2026. Tourists will now need to make advance reservations online in order to visit them, with parking spots also limited. The Lavezzi islands will have a particularly strict tourism quota of 2,000 outside visitors per day.
Are there similar examples elsewhere in the world? Will tourism quotas start spreading everywhere now? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
Why will it be years before Ukraine could join the EU?
Why is Elvis known as the King?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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7/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
What is the Gamestop short squeeze?
On July 8, we celebrate National Video Game Day.
What is the Gamestop short squeeze?
You may have seen headlines about it in recent weeks, and it’s certainly one of the financial stories of the year so far. The Gamestop short squeeze saw Wall Street tremble at least temporarily due to the actions of amateur traders from Reddit. And this battle is perhaps just the start of a long war. To understand the short squeeze, let’s go back to the beginning.Gamestop is an American chain of video game stores which has a presence in many countries across the world. It’s well-known among gamers, but has been struggling of late due to competition from digital distribution.
How does short-selling actually work in practice? So what went wrong for the hedge funds in this case? Anybody can buy stocks? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
Why will it be years before Ukraine could join the EU?
Why is Elvis known as the King?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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7/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
Is bikini waxing harmful for your health?
Swimsuit season is here and many women will be making sure they’re body hair is groomed in good time before jetting off for a beach holiday. And it’s not just in summer time either. According to a Jama Dermotology study of 3,316 American women in 2016, 83.8% reported removing at least some of their pubic hair. The most common hair removal methods are waxing, shaving and lasering. Over half of the respondents cited hygiene reasons for doing so, but in reality there may be health risks associated with the practice.
How did female pubic hair get to be out of fashion? What are the actual functions of pubic hair? Are there any other risks? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Why will it be years before Ukraine could join the EU?
Why is Elvis known as the King?
Is the menopause still a taboo subject?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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7/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
Why will it be years before Ukraine could join the EU?
Why will it be years before Ukraine could join the EU?
On 23rd June 2022, the European Union’s 27 member states agreed to award the countries of Ukraine and Moldova official EU candidate status. The decision was taken relatively quickly, with Ukraine and Moldova having submitted their formal applications on 28th February and 3rd March respectively, within a week of Russia having launched its military invasion of Ukraine. The motivation is clear. The EU has a mutual defence clause, which guarantees protection for any member state coming under attack on its own territory. Since the start of the war, there has been speculation over whether Russian aggression could spread elsewhere.
What are the possible obstacles? Could there be any kind of compromise measure? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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Why is Elvis known as the King?
Is the menopause still a taboo subject?
What is shrinkflation, the sneaky tactic manufacturers are hiding from consumers?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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7/5/2022 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
[RERUN] What is Islamism?
What is Islamism?
A spate of terrorist attacks have been carried out across Europe in recent weeks, most notably in France and Austria. Political leaders have attributed the violence to Islamists, calling for a united front in battling this form of radicalism. Nevertheless, use of the term “Islamism” is somewhat controversial. It’s important to make the distinction between the religion Islam itself, which is practised by all Muslims, and the separate political concept of Islamism.
So what’s the difference between Islam and Islamism? What’s so controversial about the term Islamism then? Are there other better alternatives to talking about Islamism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen the last episodes, you can click here:
Why is Elvis known as the King?
Is the menopause still a taboo subject?
What is shrinkflation, the sneaky tactic manufacturers are hiding from consumers?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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7/5/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
Why is Elvis known as the King?
Why is Elvis known as the King?
Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis Presley biopic hit UK cinemas on 24nd June 2022, starring Austin Butler as the King of rock and roll himself, and Tom Hanks as his controversial manager Colonel Tom Parker. Let’s look back at how Elvis became a global superstar from the 1950s through to the late 70s. Elvis Presley earned his reputation as the King for a seemingly endless list of hits he had throughout his career. Many successful artists have cited him as being their number one influence and to this day, he’s still a popular culture icon, even 45 years after passing away.
What stuck out the most about Elvis’ music? How did the King’s decline affect his reputation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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Is the menopause still a taboo subject?
What is shrinkflation, the sneaky tactic manufacturers are hiding from consumers?
How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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7/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 56 seconds
[RERUN] What is enbyphobia?
What is enbyphobia?
This term first appeared in LGBT+ circles; if you’re wondering what an “enby” is, just say it slower: N - B, which stands for non-binary. So it refers to a phobia of non-binary people, which is also sometimes called exorsexism. If you think back to our episode about non-binary gender identity, you’ll remember it means people who do not feel exclusively male or female. For example, some may identify as having two or more genders, or none at all. There isn’t much data on the subject, but statistics gathered by Nat Titman in 2014 suggest that at least 1 in 250 people are non-binary. In reality, the figure may be much higher.
So why do some people have a problem with NBs? And what does enbyphobic behaviour look like? What’s the difference between transphobia and enbyphobia? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Is the menopause still a taboo subject?
What is shrinkflation, the sneaky tactic manufacturers are hiding from consumers?
How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/3/2022 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
How have Pride Parades evolved over the last 50 years?
How have Pride Parades evolved over the last 50 years?
In cities across the world, Pride Parades take place in late June and early July, with the London 2022 event set for today. They bring together thousands of people and give visibility to the LGBTQ+ struggle. These events have consistently grown and spread to new places after first taking place in June 1970. They’re also known as pride marches or festivals.
How did Pride marches first begin? What are the events like? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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Is the menopause still a taboo subject?
What is shrinkflation, the sneaky tactic manufacturers are hiding from consumers?
How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
Is menopause still a taboo subject?
Is the menopause still a taboo subject?
The menopause is the period in a woman’s life when she stops ovulating and having periods, due to lower hormone levels in the body. Despite the fact that it can last 10 years or more and all women go through it, the topic has long been something of a taboo and even seen as an illness. Western medicine only really started paying attention to it in the 18th century. Medical journals and psychiatric studies were largely responsible for the stigmatisation of the menopause. They perpetuated the myth of women being unstable when they were about to go through the menopause.
Is the menopause discussed more these days? I’ve never heard of Make Menopause Matter. What do they do? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is shrinkflation, the sneaky tactic manufacturers are hiding from consumers?
How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
Could Male Polish be the next big thing in men’s fashion?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/1/2022 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Taliban offensive?
What is the Taliban offensive?
The Taliban’s offensive against the Afghan government, which began back in May, accelerated dramatically in the last 10 days, leading to the group taking complete control of the country. As of August 13th, the Islamist military group only held 132 of Afghanistan’s 398 districts, according to BBC research. But three days later, capital city Kabul had fallen and the figure had risen to 391 districts, with just 7 remaining contested. Meanwhile the UNrefugees.org charity organisation reports that 390,000 Afghans have been displaced since May alone, and 80% of them are women or children. Families have been forced to flee their towns and villages, desperate to save themselves from the Taliban by any means necessary. Footage of chaotic scenes at Kabul airport has emerged.
How did the offensive begin? Who are the Taliban? How did the Taliban advance so quickly? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Could Male Polish be the next big thing in men’s fashion?
Why are there so many spin offs in the world of cinema?
How were the Stonewall riots the starting point for the LGBT struggle?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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7/1/2022 • 5 minutes, 17 seconds
What is shrinkflation, the sneaky tactic manufacturers are hiding from consumers?
What is shrinkflation, the sneaky tactic manufacturers are hiding from consumers?
Marketing technique shrinkflation is becoming more and more common in large retail stores, in particular down to the ongoing war in Ukraine. It sees manufacturers quietly reducing the size of their products, but maintaining prices at the same level. Shrinkflation is often a result of an increase in raw material prices and other production costs, but is seen as a form of hidden inflation and has been heavily criticised in many places. In the context of the current cost of living crisis, it’s definitely a sensitive subject. According to Merriam Webster, the portmanteau term was coined by British economist Pippa Malmgren in a tweet back in 2015.
Do you have any specific examples? Is shrinkflation illegal? As a consumer, how can I avoid falling victim to shrinkflation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
Could Male Polish be the next big thing in men’s fashion?
Why are there so many spin offs in the world of cinema?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
Do you really know, the trailer
You’ve heard about it, but do you really know it? In 3 minutes, we help you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. After listening, you will really know for sure.
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6/29/2022 • 1 minute, 38 seconds
How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
How can we choose the right sunscreen product?
July is nearly upon us, which means it’s summer holiday time for many of you. Whether you’re going on a beach holiday, city break or camping trip, the chances are you’ll be soaking up the sun’s rays. Of course sunshine activates vitamin D production in the body, which has numerous benefits like protecting us from disease and improving mental health. But on the other hand, being exposed for too long can accelerate skin ageing. Excessive UV can even lead to skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 100,000 new melanoma cases will be diagnosed in the United States alone in 2022.
How should I compare all the different products? Do sunscreens only protect us from UVBs? How often should we be topping up on sunscreen? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
Could Male Polish be the next big thing in men’s fashion?
Why are there so many spin offs in the world of cinema?
How were the Stonewall riots the starting point for the LGBT struggle?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/29/2022 • 5 minutes, 16 seconds
[RERUN] What is the global minimum tax?
What is the global minimum tax?
At the end of last week, finance ministers from the G7 countries met in London and formally endorsed a global minimum corporate tax rate. Going forward, companies will have to pay a minimum of 15% tax on their profits. The framework is part of an effort to stop multinationals, and in particular the GAFA companies Google, Amazon, Facebook and Apple, from profit-shifting to tax havens. Tech companies are able to easily move between countries due to the nature of their business.
How will the global minimum tax rule actually work? Why do we need such a tax in the first place? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Why are there so many spin offs in the world of cinema?
How were the Stonewall riots the starting point for the LGBT struggle?
How did Internet Explorer go out of fashion?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/29/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
Could Male Polish be the next big thing in men’s fashion?
Could Male Polish be the next big thing in men’s fashion?
A 2021 report from Persistence Market Research predicted that within the next decade, annual sales of cosmetics for men would double around the world. The sector’s growth is largely down to beard grooming products, but makeup is also on the rise, including nail polish. The annual Met Gala brings together the creme de la creme of American stars at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art. The 2022 edition took place in early May, and saw many male stars showing off manicures, like Shawn Mendes, Even Mock and Joe Jonas. The trend has been labelled male polish or the “menicure”.
How did male polish start becoming a fashion trend? Is male nail art totally new then? You still don't see many men in the streets with painted nails though do you? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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Why are there so many spin offs in the world of cinema?
How were the Stonewall riots the starting point for the LGBT struggle?
How did Internet Explorer go out of fashion?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
Why are there so many spin offs in the world of cinema?
Why are there so many spin offs in the world of cinema?
The world of cinema is full of films and sagas which leave their mark on a generation, sometimes becoming cult films. And another phenomenon is becoming more and more common: that of the spin off. Spin-off films involve the creation of a new work based on the original, focusing on the story of a secondary character. There are a number of reasons why directors and screenwriters have chosen to carry out such projects.
Why are they so important for cinematic works? Why do fans love them so much? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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How were the Stonewall riots the starting point for the LGBT struggle?
How did Internet Explorer go out of fashion?
What is Face Wine, the latest viral beauty product from Tiktok?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/27/2022 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
[RERUN] What is cancel culture?
What is cancel culture?
Cancel culture is the popular practice of withdrawing support for an individual or company, to such an extent that they become irrelevant as a result. This is usually due to something the person has done or said that is considered offensive. Cancel culture has become an effective tool for so-called social justice movements, with feminist, antiracist and LGBTQ+ activists incr easingly adopting the tactic. It tends to involve the use of social media to call for a boycott of an individual, who may or may not be a public figure. This online shaming can include fair criticism, insulting and harassment to destroy the person’s reputation. Many have suggested that cancel culture has now gone too far, including former US President Barack Obama.
Well, internet users can be very sensitive can’t they? Cancel culture is all the rage at the moment, isn’t it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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How were the Stonewall riots the starting point for the LGBT struggle?
How did Internet Explorer go out of fashion?
What is Face Wine, the latest viral beauty product from Tiktok?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
What does the future hold for Marvel Cinematic Universe?
What does the future hold for Marvel Cinematic Universe?
Marvel has long been one of the most prominent and iconic publishers in the world of American comics. From the turn of the century onwards, its cinematic adaptations breathed new life into the franchise. It started out with the somewhat timid X-men film in the year 2000, but really took off with the launch of the shared MCU universe in 2008, when Iron Man was released. Since then, superhero films have become a genre of their own and even took over the blockbuster format. A whopping 28 MCU films have been released in cinemas in total, split across four phases. And with Ms Marvel having recently landed on Disney Plus and Thor: Love and Thunder hitting the big screen next month, the Marvel Cinematic Universe is showing no signs of slowing down.
Has the MCU managed to keep up momentum since Avengers Endgame? What can we expect to see in coming years then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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How were the Stonewall riots the starting point for the LGBT struggle?
How did Internet Explorer go out of fashion?
What is Face Wine, the latest viral beauty product from Tiktok?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/25/2022 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
How were the Stonewall riots the starting point for the LGBT struggle?
How were the Stonewall riots the starting point for the LGBT struggle?
In 1960s New York, a bar called the Stonewall Inn was one of the few establishments to serve homosexuals. It was a shabby venue, which operated without a liquor license and had blocked out windows to protect customers from suspicious looks. Situated in the Greenwich Village district of South west Manhattan, it was controlled by the mafia, who would bribe police to ignore what went on there. That’s right; organised crime had worked out how to exploit catering to gay customers that were considered undesirable elsewhere.
How did riots break out at the Stonewall? What’s the heritage of the Stonewall riots? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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How did Internet Explorer go out of fashion?
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What are the signs you might have sleep apnea?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/24/2022 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
How did Internet Explorer go out of fashion?
How did Internet Explorer go out of fashion?
On 15th June 2022, American internet giant Microsoft cut off Internet Explorer, its long standing web browser. At the end of the 1990s and through to the 2000s, it set the standard when it came to browsers. In 2004 it had a usage share of as high as 95%, a figure which was under 1% by the time it closed, according to Irish traffic analysis website StatCounter.
How did its decline come around? Why did people start using other browsers? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is Face Wine, the latest viral beauty product from Tiktok?
What are the signs you might have sleep apnea?
Can carbon farming help us reach net zero by 2050?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/23/2022 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
[RERUN] What is the US Supreme Court?
What is the US Supreme Court?
Following the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg in September 2020, Donald Trump made clear his desire to quickly appoint a new justice to the US Supreme Court. To understand the importance of this nomination, it’s important to consider the major political influence of the Supreme Court justices. The Supreme Court was created in 1789, thirteen years after the United States Declaration of Independence. It’s made up of nine justices, each of whom has a lifetime tenure. Talking about the institution in 1907, New York state governor Charles Evan Hughes said: “We are under a Constitution, but the Constitution is what the judges say it is, and the judiciary is the safeguard of our liberty and of our property under the Constitution.”
So are you saying the Supreme Court calls the shots in the US? What about the judges? Do they have significant power? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What are the signs you might have sleep apnea?
Can carbon farming help us reach net zero by 2050?
What is art nouveau and how did it flourish around the turn of the 20th century?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/23/2022 • 5 minutes, 8 seconds
What is Face Wine, the latest viral beauty product from Tiktok?
What is Face Wine, the latest viral beauty product from Tiktok?
Over the last few years, Chinese platform Tiktok has taken over as the social network of choice for teens and young adults. Unsurprisingly then, it’s also become a prime target for influencers and brands looking to promote their products, ahead of Instagram, Youtube and Snapchat. Since the start of May 2022, a beauty product called Grape Water has been getting a lot of attention. It’s been dubbed ‘Face Wine’ and it’s said to clarify skin.
What’s so special about the product? And how did it end up going viral? What other products have enjoyed success thanks to Tiktok? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What are the signs you might have sleep apnea?
Can carbon farming help us reach net zero by 2050?
What is art nouveau and how did it flourish around the turn of the 20th century?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/22/2022 • 3 minutes, 57 seconds
What are the signs you might have sleep apnea?
What are the signs you might have sleep apnea?
According to a study published in the Journal of Thoracic Disease in 2015, 10% of all people are affected by obstructive sleep apnea. That figure rises for some population groups, like men, over-50s and overweight people. It’s actually a mechanical disorder, rather than an illness. When we go to sleep, our muscles relax; that's totally normal. But when it comes to people affected by apnea, the soft tissue at the back of the throat collapses, blocking the airway.
How long do these breathing pauses last? And how serious is the condition? How is sleep apnea usually detected? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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Can carbon farming help us reach net zero by 2050?
What is art nouveau and how did it flourish around the turn of the 20th century?
What are subliminals?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/21/2022 • 5 minutes, 28 seconds
[MUSIC DAY] Who is Rosalia?
The annual celebration of World Music Day on 21st June is upon us and Do You Really Know? is aiming to strike a chord with listeners. We'll be harping on about music all week long, covering related terms, concepts and famous figures.
Who is Rosalia?
Following the release of her latest album Motomami, Rosalia Vila Tobella was called a visionary and compared to artists like M.I.A. and Madonna by the Wall Street Journal. It’s fair to say she seems destined to be one of the biggest pop stars of her generation. So let’s take a moment to discuss the career of a singer who is winning critical and popular acclaim with everything she does.
How did she get to where she is today? Well, where do you go from there huh?! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is the thyroid?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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6/21/2022 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
Can carbon farming help us reach net zero by 2050?
Can carbon farming help us reach net zero by 2050?
Reaching carbon net zero by 2050 is one of the main objectives in the struggle against global warming. It’s also part of the Green New Deal the EU agreed upon in 2019. Since the start of 2022, many figures in agriculture have been pushing for a carbon farming policy which would see farmers rewarded for their efforts in sequestering carbon.
How does that work? Why is agriculture in particular concerned by the net zero target? What is expected at a European level? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is art nouveau and how did it flourish around the turn of the 20th century?
What are subliminals?
What is sadfishing?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
[MUSIC DAY] What is the Mozart Effect?
The annual celebration of World Music Day on 21st June is upon us and Do You Really Know? is aiming to strike a chord with listeners. We'll be harping on about music all week long, covering related terms, concepts and famous figures.
What is the Mozart Effect?
What if listening to 10 minutes of Mozart could increase your IQ? That’s exactly what Frances Raucher and her Californian research team suggested back in 1993. The theory spread like wildfire around the world, leading to much speculation about the so-called Mozart Effect.
The myth comes from the publication of an experiment in American scientific journal Nature. The study required participants to listen to The Sonata for Two Pianos in D Major, K 448 by Mozart. After just 10 minutes, they were better able to solve spatial intelligence tasks which are part of IQ testing.
Let’s cut to the chase, does it actually work? How does music affect our brain ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
[MUSIC DAY] What is K-Pop?
The annual celebration of World Music Day on 21st June is upon us and Do You Really Know? is aiming to strike a chord with listeners. We'll be harping on about music all week long, covering related terms, concepts and famous figures.
What is K-Pop?
On October 15th, Big Hit Entertainment debuted on the Korean stock exchange. If you’re not familiar with the company itself, you’re more likely to have heard of BTS, one of the bands they created. In barely 24 hours, the success of the IPO had exceeded all expectations. A single day of trading was enough to bring the value of Big Hit Entertainment up from $4.5bn to nearly $7.4bn. Also known as the Bangtan Boys, BTS are the most famous boy band from South Korea, and a global music phenomenon. Particularly popular among teenagers, the group’s last single “Dynamite” reached 350 million views on Youtube in under a month.
So what’s the magic K-pop formula? It sounds like a neatly packaged commercial product! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the thyroid?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/19/2022 • 5 minutes, 16 seconds
How did "Where’s Wally" become an international phenomenon over the last 35 years?
How did Where’s Wally become an international phenomenon over the last 35 years?
With his red and white hooped jumper, round glasses and funny hat, our man Wally is easy to recognise, but much more difficult to find! Anyone who’s read through one of his books will tell you that. And that’s a lot of people, given that as of 2007, 73 million copies had been sold. As the series turns 35 years old, let’s take a moment to show it some appreciation.
Hmm, I’ve heard of Where’s Waldo, but not Where’s Wally; what’s the difference? How was Wally created? What’s the secret to finding Wally every time? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is art nouveau and how did it flourish around the turn of the 20th century?
What are subliminals?
What is sadfishing?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/18/2022 • 5 minutes, 8 seconds
[MUSIC DAY] Who are Oasis?
The annual celebration of World Music Day on 21st June is upon us and Do You Really Know? is aiming to strike a chord with listeners. We'll be harping on about music all week long, covering related terms, concepts and famous figures.
Who are Oasis?
On August 10th 1996, Oasis drew over 250,000 fans to their gigs on two consecutive nights at Knebworth Park. Much like the band, these record-breaking concerts would end up gaining legendary status.
And just a week ago, a dedicated Oasis Knebworth 1996 documentary premiered in UK cinemas, making it the perfect opportunity to talk about one of the country’s most successful bands.
Why are they called Oasis again? How did Oasis get to be so successful? Why aren’t Oasis still producing music to this day? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the thyroid?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/18/2022 • 5 minutes, 16 seconds
How did art nouveau flourish around the turn of the 20th century?
What is art nouveau and how did it flourish around the turn of the 20th century?
This aesthetic movement dominated many artistic fields in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was influenced by nature and used trademark organic shapes and sinuous lines, moving away from previous limits to create new kinds of design objects. Let’s take a few minutes to reflect on where art nouveau came from, as well as its major themes and artists. Unlike many artistic waves, art nouveau didn’t come from one particular artist or theory. Rather it marked a change in mentality, and a move away from traditional restrictive art forms.
How did the movement start? What are the main characteristics of Art Nouveau works? Who are the main figures of the Art Nouveau movement? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What are subliminals?
What is sadfishing?
What is Jurassic Park?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/17/2022 • 5 minutes, 15 seconds
[MUSIC DAY] Who are Abba?
The annual celebration of World Music Day on 21st June is upon us and Do You Really Know? is aiming to strike a chord with listeners. We'll be harping on about music all week long, covering related terms, concepts and famous figures.
Who are Abba?
A full forty years after their last LP “The Visitors”, Abba have only gone and released a new album! That’s right, with Voyage now available for download, let’s take the opportunity to talk about one of Euro-disco's most legendary bands!
Why are they called Abba again? What are their most popular classics? Why did the band end up splitting? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the thyroid?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/17/2022 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
What are subliminals?
What are subliminals?
If you listen to some people out there, they’ll tell you you can improve your self-esteem, change your eye colour, or become a mermaid simply by viewing or listening to certain clips on Youtube. Sounds far-fetched right? Well, the idea is based on subliminal messaging, so let’s discuss how realistic it is. It’s important to distinguish between audio and visual subliminals. The former type often feature unintelligible jabbering, sometimes overshadowed by random ambient music. The extract you can hear in the background comes from a Mark Reynolds clip entitled “Make Him Unblock You On Social Media”
What are the clips themselves actually like? But how can you expect to get physical changes from an audio or video clip? What does science have to say on the matter? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is sadfishing?
What is Jurassic Park?
What are carbon bombs?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/16/2022 • 5 minutes, 21 seconds
[MUSIC DAY] Who are the Red Hot Chili Peppers?
The annual celebration of World Music Day on 21st June is upon us and Do You Really Know? is aiming to strike a chord with listeners. We'll be harping on about music all week long, covering related terms, concepts and famous figures.
Who are the Red Hot Chili Peppers?
With their new album Unlimited Love having been released on 1st April, let’s talk about the famous Californian funk rock group. The band has cited many influences, and they have been associated with a number of musical genres, including funk rock, alternative rock and rap rock. The Red Hot Chili Peppers unique style is precisely one of their distinctive characteristics.
So where does the name come from? Why did the band members change so often? How would you describe the Red Hot Chili Peppers musical style? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
What is sadfishing?
What is sadfishing?
Since the advent of social media, we’ve gotten used to seeing highlight reels of people’s lives on our newsfeeds. But in recent years, people have been more and more willing to share posts about moments of sadness, rather than acting like everything’s perfect all the time. More authentic, or simply another veiled form of attention seeking and like hunting? The practice has been labelled sadfishing.
How did the term come to be created? How widespread is sadfishing then? Are we saying it’s all about getting more likes then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is Jurassic Park?
What are carbon bombs?
What is rewilding?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
[MUSIC DAY] What is sign singing?
The annual celebration of World Music Day on 21st June is upon us and Do You Really Know? is aiming to strike a chord with listeners. We'll be harping on about music all week long, covering related terms, concepts and famous figures.
What is sign singing?
Deafness is known for being an invisible disability, which can lead to exclusion and loneliness. According to a Human Rights Watch article from 2019, 70 million deaf people across the world use sign language to communicate. Well sign singers take that one step further, by adapting song lyrics into sign language for the deaf and hard of hearing.
How do sign singers translate music? Where does it come from? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/15/2022 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
What is Jurassic Park?
What is Jurassic Park?
The recently released Jurassic World Dominion concludes the storyline which first started out in the original Jurassic Park trilogy, from 1993 onwards. Reviews of the latest film have so far been poor, but that won’t take anything away from the legendary franchise’s legacy. Let’s look back at some of the main talking points and secrets behind Jurassic Park.
How did Jurassic Park make it onto the big screen in the first place? What are some of the lesser known moments? What about the actors and characters? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What are carbon bombs?
What is rewilding?
What is the Russian Oil Embargo?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
[RERUN] What is the World Health Organization?
Today is the World Blood Donor Day. This event brings awarness on the importance to donate blood and it encourages people to become a donor.
What is the World Health Organization?
The World Health Organization is a United Nations agency that is responsible for international public health. In the case of a global health pandemic, such as the ongoing Coronavirus crisis, the WHO has a central role in coordinating the response plan. However, some people have called into question its effectiveness.
When the World Health Organization was created? So is it down to the WHO that half the world’s population is under lockdown? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are carbon bombs?
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What is the Russian Oil Embargo?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
What are carbon bombs?
What are carbon bombs?
The controversial East African Crude Oil Pipeline project moved one step closer to construction in March 2022, with the signing of a $10 billions Final Investment Decision between French multinational Total Energies and its joint venture partners. The pipeline is set to become the longest in the world, at 1000 miles long, and will transport petrol from Uganda to the Tanzanian coast. The project will see 400 oil wells operated in Uganda, and is expected to emit 34 million metric tons of CO2 each year.
Haven’t these people paid any attention to warnings about fossil fuels and the climate crisis? What other risks are linked to the EACOP project? How can we stop carbon bombs? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is rewilding?
What is the Russian Oil Embargo?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/13/2022 • 5 minutes, 23 seconds
[RERUN] What are happy hormones?
Today is the Global Wellness Day, a day dedicated to bring awarness on health issues and to improve people's wellness.
What are happy hormones?
A recent scientific brief from the World Health Organisation, explained that anxiety and depression had increased by 25% worldwide over the first year of the Covid 19 pandemic. The massive rise was mostly down to social isolation and multiple stress factors like fear of infection and financial worries. It’s important to know that we can actually control our mood to some extent. It’s possible to boost our so-called happy hormones in natural ways, by opting for specific foods, activities and behaviours.
So how can we stimulate the production of these hormones and neurotransmitters? Why do they say that oxytocin is the love hormone? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/12/2022 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
What are umbrella species?
What are umbrella species?
Within an ecosystem there are many different species, and it can be difficult for conservationists to come up with specific strategies to protect every single one of them. That’s why some have started focusing on umbrella species, because of the benefits that protecting them has for other co-occurring species. It’s as if they’re putting an umbrella over the entire surrounding ecosystem. They help conservationists select locations for reserves, establish the minimum size, and to generally better understand ecosystems i.e. their composition, structure and processes.
What are some examples of umbrella species? Funny, a lot of those are also the most popular species in humans’ eyes, aren’t they? What about umbrella species in Europe? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is rewilding?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/11/2022 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
What is rewilding?
What is rewilding?
Over the history of life on planet Earth, there have been five mass extinction events, due to changing sea temperatures, volcano eruptions and the asteroid impact that wiped out the dinosaurs. And now experts fear a sixth mass extinction is underway, this time directly linked to human activity. According to a study published in Biological Review in January 2022, 10% of the planet’s known plant and animal species have disappeared from existence over the last 500 years.
What’s the difference compared to conventional conservation efforts? Do you have any examples of rewilding projects? What about in Europe? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is the Russian Oil Embargo?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/10/2022 • 5 minutes, 2 seconds
What is the Russian Oil Embargo?
What is the Russian Oil Embargo?
The EU unanimously took this decisive measure on the night of 30th May 2022, a little over 3 months since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine. Between now and the end of the year, the Union’s 27 member states will cut imports of Russian oil by 90%. Russia is one of the three biggest oil producers in the world, after Saudi Arabia and the United States.
The embargo concerns not only crude oil, but also refined fuels like diesel. The agreement marks the sixth package of sanctions against Russia to come from Brussels, following previous measures.
Meeting at the Brussels summit, the heads of state and government agreed to stop importing oil by sea, which currently represents ⅔ of the EU’s supply from Russia.
Why take such a measure? What about the oil left ? What else is in the sanctions package? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is the thyroid?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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6/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
[RERUN] What is low tech?
What is low tech?
In the struggle against climate change, politicians are getting behind technological innovation. But some experts believe that, rather than high-tech, we should instead be banking on the simple, robust and reparable solutions offered by low tech. The all-powerful nature of high-tech has been called into question for decades, with regular controversies and debates on subjects like robots, satellites or artificial intelligence. As far back as the 1970s, author Ivan Illich published “Tools for Conviviality” about the proper use of technology, in which he argued that society should “give people tools that guarantee their right to work with independent efficiency”.In this day and age, tools are overwhelmingly controlled by specialists. For example, very few of us know how to build or repair a smartphone, car or washing machine.
Isn’t the awesome thing about technology that it’s guaranteed to become more and more complex? Right, well what could a low-tech life look like then? Where can I get started in turning to low tech? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
What is Tetris?
What is Tetris?
6th June sees the anniversary of one of the most successful and addictive video games of all time: Tetris! Pretty much everyone is familiar with the game concept: it involves moving and rotating falling shapes to form gapless lines which then disappear. In theory you can carry on ad infinitum, but the shapes fall faster and faster the longer you play, thereby increasing the difficulty. SON - game over
OK it’s a relatively simple game, but it’s got an unlikely and fascinating story behind it, being invented in Soviet Russia and then going global, not to mention a ton of piracy and rights issues along the way.
How did it all start? So how did Tetris spread from then on? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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6/8/2022 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
What is the thyroid?
What is the thyroid?
This small butterfly-shaped gland is situated at the bottom of the neck, wrapped around the windpipe. It plays an important role in a number of bodily functions, but isn’t as well known as it should be. According to The American Thyroid Association, over 12% of the country’s population will develop a thyroid disorder at some point in their life. Many people are actually unaware of the fact that they even have thyroid disease.
What is the purpose of the thyroid? How can I find out if my thyroid functions correctly? Is there anything I can do to stop myself from developing a thyroid disorder? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is asthma?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
[RERUN] What is mental load ?
What is mental load?
Mental load, or emotional labour, is a sociological concept often relating to the daily management of a household. Research has shown that within traditional families, the strain of mental load is more often than not taken on by women. It’s become a feminist issue due to this imbalance.
Early discussions relating to mental load date back to the 1980s. Sociologists noted how women in heterosexual relationships were often just as busy with managing household tasks or family life, as with their own job. And more so than men, in fact.
How does it affect women's lives? Does it only affect straight couples? And what can we do? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is ecological debt?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
What is asthma?
What is asthma?
According to figures published in the Lancet in 2020, asthma had affected around 260 million people the previous year, causing 455,000 deaths. The condition can’t be cured, but with the right management it can be kept under control, so people with asthma can still lead active lives.
Asthma symptoms are brought on by inflammation of the respiratory system, and more specifically the bronchi and bronchioles. When the lining of these airways is swollen, airflow is obstructed, meaning it’s more difficult for air to get into or out of the lungs.
What causes asthma attacks and how serious are they? What are the treatment options? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is ecological debt?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
[RERUN] What are climate refugees?
What are climate refugees?
The consequences of climate change are some of the primary drivers behind global human migration. According to a report by the European Commission on Migration, each year, an average of 30 million people are displaced due to environmental degradation.
Climate refugees, or climate migrants, are people forced away from their homes due to sudden or gradual alterations in their natural environment. We’re talking about sea-level rise, extreme weather events, drought and water scarcity for example. They are also referred to as displaced people.
Which NGOs are present in Somaliland? To what extent is climate migration a global phenomenon? What happens to climate refugees when they leave their homes? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Stan Culture ?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/5/2022 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
What is Stranger Things?
What is Stranger Things?
On 27th May 2022, one of Netflix’s most iconic shows made a long-awaited return. Many series and films were delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and Stranger Things was no exception. But the fourth season is now available for streaming, and has already broken a Netflix record, with 287 million viewing hours on its opening weekend.
Let’s discuss how the series, which was first created by the Duffer brothers in 2016, created so much enthusiasm among the public.
OK so what’s the show about and how did it get to be so popular? How do you explain its success? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is ecological debt?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What is ecological debt?
What is ecological debt?
With World Environment Day coming up on 5th June 2022, let’s take a moment to consider a concept which highlights both the scale of the climate crisis and inequalities between different areas of the world. Discussions around ecological debt are closely linked to that of overshoot and the overuse of planet Earth's resources.
As regular listeners know, humans have now long been depleting earth’s resources far quicker than the planet is able to generate them. We discussed Earth Overshoot Day in a past episode, and it’s gotten earlier and earlier every year. The only exception was 2020, due to Covid-related measures, but in 2021 the previous trend resumed.
Is there another definition of ecological debt then? How big of a north/south divide are we looking at? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is a zombie company?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/3/2022 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
What is a zombie company?
What is a zombie company ?
If you’ve ever seen horror movies, you’ll know that when you see a zombie, you should start running! Well, the term is also used in the world of business to describe companies which are hugely indebted and only able to pay their fixed costs and interest, but not actually able to reduce the debt itself. Much like the horror film creatures, you could say these companies are neither dead nor alive. Their productivity is massively impacted and there’s a knock-on effect on the wider economy.
The phenomenon has been on the rise since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, with some zombie companies only surviving thanks to government grants.
How was the term coined? How widespread is the problem? What are the negative consequences of zombie firms? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is monkeypox ?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/2/2022 • 5 minutes, 12 seconds
[RERUN] What is gender dysphoria?
What is gender dysphoria?
Gender dysphoria describes the unease that people can feel when there is a mismatch between their biological sex and gender identity. So for example a person with male genitals and facial hair might not identify as a man. This unease can cause depression and anxiety in some cases, and have a real impact on a person’s daily life.
How is this label different from more commonly used terms like transidentity? What can people with gender dysphoria suffer from? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Stan Culture ?
What is an IPA ?
What is Naruto ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
What is monkeypox ?
What is monkeypox ?
This viral infection gets its name from first being discovered among lab monkeys in Denmark in 1958, although its natural reservoir remains unknown. It’s a cousin of the now eradicated smallpox virus.
The first human infections date back to 1970 and cases are rare, occurring mainly in central and Western Africa, where the virus is endemic. Until recently, the only four identified human cases in the UK were in 2018. But since the start of May 2022, there’s been an outbreak in a number of countries where the disease isn’t endemic, including Canada, the USA, Australia, Israel, the UK and several EU member states.
How does the virus spread then? What are the symptoms of monkeypox? How worried should we be then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is mom shaming ?
What is Top Gun ?
What is Fortnite ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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6/1/2022 • 5 minutes, 1 second
What is mom shaming ?
What is mom shaming ?
Just like with body shaming or slut shaming, mom shaming is another example of how women are often subjected to disproportionate criticism, and made to feel guilty about their choices, in this case specifically about parenting methods.
The term refers to how mothers are criticised or even humiliated, for the way they bring up their children and fulfil their role as a mother.
Who would be so judgemental as to make comments like that? What are the consequences of mom shaming? What about dad shaming; is that a thing too? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is Top Gun ?
What is Fortnite ?
What is an IPA ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/31/2022 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
[RERUN] What is cultured meat?
What is cultured meat?
The world’s ever-growing human population is eating meat in greater quantities than ever before. Yet at the same time, we’re also increasingly conscious of the environmental impact, as well as ethical issues around animal slaughter.
So imagine if you could eat meat without any animals being harmed, and with 96% less greenhouse gas emissions! Well, that is actually possible with cultured meat, which is grown via cell culture in a lab rather than from an animal. It’s also been described as “clean meat”, due to its perceived benefits, but this term has been criticised for not being neutral enough.
So how is cultured meat actually made? Why aren’t we all already eating cultured meat? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Stan Culture ?
What is an IPA ?
What is Naruto ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/31/2022 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
What is Top Gun ?
What is Top Gun ?
36 years on from his breakthrough performance in the original Top Gun film, Tom Cruise is back to star as Pete Mitchell in follow-up Top Gun: Maverick, which hit cinemas at the end of last week.
Let’s look back at how the original, directed by Tony Scott in 1986, became a cult film and has remained relevant in popular culture to this day. Of course the challenge now is for Top Gun Maverick director Joseph Kosinski to replicate that with the new film!
For those of us who haven’t seen the original Top Gun, what’s it all about? So why is Top Gun considered a cult film then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is Fortnite ?
What is an IPA ?
What is Naruto ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
[RERUN] What is period poverty?
Yesterday, on may 28, was the menstrual hygiene day. We wanted to bring awarness on period poverty.
What is period poverty?
Menstrual hygiene products are an essential expense, but many women on low incomes find that the cost is out of their reach. This is known as period poverty and it affects more people than you might think, even in developed countries. A survey in the UK found that over 40% of 14-21 year olds had used items like socks, tissues or paper as a makeshift replacement for sanitary products.
Activists have been campaigning for a number of years now to bring about change. They see period poverty as a form of injustice and want to put an end to it once and for all.
Surely tampons and sanitary pads don’t cost that much, do they? Why are periods such a taboo subject? Have these campaigns led to any concrete change so far? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Stan Culture ?
What is an IPA ?
What is Naruto ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/29/2022 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
What is the Cannes Film Festival ?
What is the Cannes Film Festival ?
Every year in May, film stars and fans flock to the French city of Cannes for a 10-day celebration of cinema, or as it’s referred to in the host country, “the seventh art”.
Well, not quite every year; just like many large events, the Cannes film festival has had to adapt over the last couple of years. The 2021 event took place in August, while in 2020 it had to be cancelled completely. This year though, the festival returned to full spectator capacity for its 75th edition, getting underway on 17th May and closing this evening on the 28th.
Already at the time of recording there have been a number of attention-grabbing moments, including a hero’s welcome for Tom Cruise, who received an honorary Palme d’Or, a fly past from the French air force, an unexpected video message from Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky and a topless protester storming the red carpet to highlight sexual violence against women in Ukraine.
Why does it stand out so much from other events in France? How does the official competition work? What about the other films that aren’t part of the official selection? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is Fortnite ?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
What is Fortnite ?
What is Fortnite?
This multi-player battle royale game first came out on PC, Playstation 4 and Xbox One in September 2017, before being adapted for other formats like mobile or the Nintendo Switch in 2018.
As of November 2017, Fortnite already had 20 million players. A real boom followed in 2018 and 2019. By June the following year, there were over 125 million, and in May 2020 the game’s official Twitter account posted that there were 350 million registered players. It became extremely popular to watch on Twitch, and as a result turned streamers such as Ninja, Dr Lup and Myth into superstars.
Who produces the game and how do you play it? How much does it cost to play? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is Stan Culture ?
What is an IPA ?
What is Naruto ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/27/2022 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What is dawn dating ?
What is dawn dating ?
Dating practices evolve over time along with our ways of life. Over the last two years, Covid-19 restrictions and remote work have had a huge impact on the love lives of singletons all across the world. All of a sudden, it was much less practical to meet a potential suitor face to face. As a result dates became few and far between for many.
Now of course, in-person interactions have become safer, but for some their habits may have changed for good! For most of us, a typical date involves evening drinks or dinner. But dawn dating has become increasingly common, with people choosing to meet in the morning instead.
How did we find out about dawn dating? What are the main differences between morning and evening dates? Have there been many other changes in dating since the Covid pandemic started? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is Stan Culture ?
What is an IPA ?
What is Naruto ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
[RERUN] Who is Quentin Tarantino?
Who is Quentin Tarantino?
What’s your favourite Tarantino film? Pulp Fiction, Reservoir Dogs, Kill Bill, Inglorious Bastards or perhaps Django Unchained? Every last one of his releases have had a huge impact. They’ve often been big hits among critics and popular opinion. So his recent confirmation of plans to retire following his next film has understandably drawn a lot of attention in the world of cinema.
Tarantino’s cinema is instantly recognisable. His films often have a lively rhythm, as well as a non-linear storyline, with a narrative often split into chapters. They are also characterised by dark humour and scenes of extreme graphic violence, which have been criticised.
Why is Tarantino calling it quits then? What’s Tarantino going to do when he stops making films then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is an IPA ?
What is Naruto ?
What is the Rubik’s Cube ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
What is Stan Culture ?
What is Stan Culture ?
Little did Eminem know when he invented obsessed super fan Stan for a track on The Marshall Mathers LP in 2000, that over two decades later the term would still be used, albeit with a twist.
The fictional fan Eminem wrote about ended up killing himself and his pregnant wife when his favourite rapper never replied to his letters. Nowadays, the term mostly refers to hardcore fan communities who are extremely active on social media.
How did stan culture emerge? Can you give me some examples? Stans sure are quick to jump to conclusions, aren’t they? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is an IPA ?
What is Naruto ?
What is the Rubik’s Cube ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/25/2022 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
What is an IPA ?
What is an IPA ?
India Pale Ales stand out through their golden to amber colours, distinct bitterness and fruitiness. Why such characteristics? Well, it’s all down to hops actually, which are used in greater quantities when brewing IPAs.
The name is actually a little misleading, in that it doesn't mean that the beer was brewed in India at all. Rather it refers to the fact that in the 18th century, Britain exported this kind of beer to its empire in the east, via a gruelling six-month sea route to India, passing through the North Atlantic, around Africa and then into the Indian Ocean.
Hops actually act as a preservative, so using more meant the was better protected during those long sea journeys.
Who came up with it then ? Have they always been as popular as they are nowadays ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is Naruto ?
What is the Rubik’s Cube ?
What is Housing First ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/24/2022 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
[RERUN] Who is Guillermo Del Toro?
Who is Guillermo Del Toro?
On January 21st, Nightmare Alley, the new psychological thriller from Guillermo del Toro, hit UK cinemas. Let’s pay tribute to a truly extraordinary director, novelist, producer, and screenwriter. Believe it or not, the Mexican hadn't released a single film since 2017 before Nightmare Alley. That was The Shape of Water, which won Best Picture and Best Director awards at the Oscars the following year. He took a hiatus after that, which was extended due to Covid-related delays, but the master is back in 2022.
What is so exceptional about Del Toro's work then? Is it true he could have worked on Harry Potter? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Rubik’s Cube ?
What is Housing First ?
What is Extinction Rebellion ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/24/2022 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
What is Naruto ?
What is Naruto ?
This award-winning manga series first appeared in magazine form in 1999, published in the weekly Shonen Jump. A total of 72 volumes would be published over the next 15 years, selling a combined 250 million copies and making Naruto the fourth best selling manga of all time.
But the franchise also quickly expanded from 2002 onwards, to include two animated series, with over 700 episodes between them. and 11 theatrical films.
The series won plaudits and a number of awards, across all formats. Naruto Shippuden, the second animated series, is among the most watched shows in Japan.
So what’s the story about? Who was behind the original Naruto series? How did Naruto get to be so popular? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is the Rubik’s Cube ?
What is Housing First ?
What is Extinction Rebellion ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/23/2022 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
[RERUN] What is sportswashing ?
What is sportswashing?
Look out Premier League clubs, a new big boy is in town! That’s right, following approval of their acquisition by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Newcastle United has all of a sudden become one of the richest clubs in the world!
While the Toon Army are celebrating their club’s new found wealth and dreaming of trophies to come in the future, other observers aren’t in such a buoyant mood. They’ve accused the new owners, who effectively represent the state of Saudi Arabia, of sportswashing.
Have the new owners actually done anything wrong? How common are we talking then? Why would sports clubs or athletes want to risk tarnishing their image with such links? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Extinction Rebellion ?
What is Dawson’s Creek?
What is fluxus?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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5/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What is Lego ?
What is Lego?
Danish toy brand Lego may be celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2022, but it’s showing no signs of slowing down!
An average of 31 billion bricks are sold each year around the world, and the company appeals to a wide range of people. While children love to play with it, adults tend to collect it.
How did Lego start out ? How did Lego stay so strong over the years? What about Lego's environmental footprint? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is the Rubik’s Cube ?
What is Housing First ?
What is Extinction Rebellion ?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/21/2022 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
What is the Rubik’s Cube ?
What is the Rubik’s Cube ?
Whether you find it infuriating or stimulating, you'll almost certainly recognise a Rubik's Cube as soon as you see it. The multicoloured, six-sided brainteaser has been among the most popular toys in the world for decades now, with over 350 million units sold as of 2019 according to Business Insider.
Who invented the Rubik’s Cube ? There can't have been that much fuss about a small toy, can there? What's the record time for solving a Rubik's cube? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is Housing First ?
What is Extinction Rebellion ?
What is Dawson’s Creek?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/20/2022 • 5 minutes
[RERUN] What is the fertility cliff?
What is the fertility cliff?
The ability of a woman to get pregnant and give birth doesn’t last forever. 35 has traditionally been seen as a fertility cliff, a kind of cut-off point after which it becomes much more difficult to have a child. Women in their early 30s and even late 20s often feel under pressure from their families or society, like they are losing a race against their biological clock. But recent research findings have led many to call the reasoning behind this threshold into question.
So where did the idea of 35 being a fertility cliff come from? What’s the latest information in this area then? What conclusions should we draw from all this? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who are Arcade Fire?
What is Frontex?
What is Web 3.0?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What is a sex fast ?
What is a sex fast?
Most often when we talk about a fast, we’re referring to going without food for a period of time, perhaps for religious reasons. But the same concept can apply to sex too. That’s right, the trend of sex fasts has been getting a lot of attention in the last couple of months.
That’s largely down to Kourtney Kardashian, who has been one of the method’s main advocates. The star told American magazine Bustle about it in March 2022. She went on a spiritual retreat with fiancé Travis Barker, and the couple agreed on a sex fast as part of an ayurvedic cleanse.
That’s right, a sex fast is a period of volontary abstinence during which all sexual activity is off the cards.
Are there specific rules ? What’s the point of doing a sex fast then ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is Housing First ?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
What is Housing First ?
What is Housing First ?
The Housing First policy was thought out to combat homelessness. It emerged in the 1990s, first trialled by New York not-for-profit organisation Pathways to Housing. After the turn of the century, it picked up further momentum, gradually going on to become part of government policy in the United States and then elsewhere. It has also been championed by the European Commission, which has set itself an ambitious target of eradicating homelessness by 2030.
How does the model work? Are we saying it’s worked well then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is Extinction Rebellion ?
What is Dawson’s Creek?
What is fluxus?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/18/2022 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
What is Extinction Rebellion ?
What is Extinction Rebellion ?
This environmental movement was created in England just a few years ago in October 2018, but quickly spread all across the world. Extinction Rebellion’s aim is to compel governments to take action against global warming and environmental collapse. It’s earned a reputation as a radical organisation, due to its disobedience and disruption tactics. But only using non-violent action is one of its key principles.
Also known as XR, Extinction Rebellion was born from a realisation that traditional protest methods were insufficient when it came to the environment crisis. These activists felt new methods and organisation forms were required, taking inspiration from other grassroots movements like Occupy, the American civil rights movement or the suffragettes.
What do they actually want in concrete terms? How did such a young movement get to be so rich and powerful? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is Dawson’s Creek?
What is fluxus?
What is mirror work?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/17/2022 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
[RERUN] What is popcorn ?
Today, the Cannes Film Festival begins. For this occasion, we wanted to talk about the perfect snack to eat while watching a film.
What is popcorn ?
It’s not the most widely celebrated date on the calendar, but National Popcorn Day falls on January 19th each year.
Popcorn actually got some rare negative press recently, with France temporarily banning drinks and snacks from cinemas to protect against the spread of Covid-19.
Let’s take a few minutes to honour this iconic snack, which has become for many an essential part of going to the cinema over the years.
When did popcorn make its debut in cinemas then ? Are popcorn sales really profitable for cinemas ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is Dawson’s Creek?
What is fluxus?
What is mirror work?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/17/2022 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
What is Dawson’s Creek?
What is Dawson’s Creek ?
If you were born in the 80s or 90s, the chances are you could be answering this question instead of me! Dawson’s Creek was a huge cult hit among millennials. It was pretty much the ultimate 90s teen series. It tells the lives of Dawson, Jen, Pacey and Joey, four teens living in the fictional town of Capeside. They were played by James Vanderbeck, Michelle Williams, Joshua Jackson and Katie Holmes respectively. The main character is Dawson, hence the name of the series, and his dream is to make it as a cinema director or scriptwriter. Both Joey and Jen are Dawson’s childhood friends, but Jen has only just reacquainted with him after moving to Cape Side from New York.
Why is it such a cult hit? What happened to all the lead actors afterwards? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is fluxus?
What is mirror work?
What is Dugnad?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
[RERUN] Who is Andy Warhol?
Who is Andy Warhol?
Ryan Murphy, the creator behind hit series such as Glee and American Horror Story, has now tackled a legendary figure of pop culture through his latest project. Docuseries The Andy Warhol Diaries went live on Netflix on the 9th of March. Viewers can explore the fascinating story of American artist Andy Warhol, a man who was certainly a leading figure in pop art, and is credited by many with inventing it. Active in the second half of the 20th century, he worked with many iconic celebrities, such as Michael Jackson and Marilyn Monroe, and left a lasting influence on the art industry, for better and for worse!
How would you describe Andy Warhol’s artwork? Is it true Warhol was obsessed with celebrity? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Kintsugi philosophy?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is Cinderella complex?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is emotional labour?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 56 seconds
What is a bioregion?
What is a bioregion ?
All over the world, our administrative regions tend to have exclusive competencies, like running schools, public transport, professional training, economic development, fund management and land planning.
Areas are defined by political boundaries, rather than the ecological system where they’re situated. But in recent years, an environmental alternative has slowly been gaining ground; that of the bioregion.
We owe the concept to Americans Peter Berg and Judy Goldhaft. The radical environmentalists wanted to find harmony between the natural environment and our human culture. The term emerged in the 1960s and 70s in California.
Are we saying regions would no longer be divided by administration then ? So you’re saying everything is thought out according to nature right ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here :
What is fluxus?
What is mirror work?
What is Dugnad?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 1 second
What is fluxus?
What is fluxus ?
There are artistic movements which we’ve all heard of at least once, whether it be at school, in a museum or watching a cultural show on TV.
But at the same time, it can be difficult to define them, and that’s why we’re here to help. Today we’re going to shed light on a 1960s anti-art movement known as fluxus.
What anti-art is ? And how does that relate to the fluxus movement ? So what are the main works from the fluxus movement ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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What is mirror work?
What is Dugnad?
What is de-extinction?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/13/2022 • 5 minutes, 6 seconds
What is mirror work?
What is mirror work ?
It’s not easy to learn to love yourself and have good self-esteem. But here’s the good news: it is possible to work at it. That’s the main premise behind positive psychology and personal development at least. One particular new thought method from the United States has gained a significant following; it’s known as mirror work.
Who invented mirror work then ? And what does the method consist of? But how can saying things to a mirror improve my self-confidence ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Dugnad?
What is de-extinction?
What are happy hormones?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/12/2022 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
[RERUN] What is Starlink?
On April 25th, Elon Musk struck a deal to buy Twitter for $44 billion.
What is Starlink?
While the Space Race makes us think back to the 20th century, some billionaires are dreaming of ruling space in 2020. In particular Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, who’s planning to send tens of thousands of satellites into orbit in coming years. The name of the project is Starlink and the goal is to deliver high-speed broadband access across the globe. Behind Starlink is the private company SpaceX, which Elon Musk founded in 2002. Earlier this year, it became the first private company to send astronauts into space. Musk has long held the ambition of colonizing the planet Mars, which remains a future objective for SpaceX. Since 2015, the company has been developing the Starlink megaconstellation of satellites. The stated aim is bold: providing high-speed internet access anywhere on earth. We’re talking at sea, in the middle of the desert or the depths of the countryside.
Doesn’t satellite internet access already exist?
Existing satellites giving internet access are in geostationary orbit and the technology only allows a limited number of users to access it. Latency times are also high, due to the 20,000 mile distance between the satellites and us on Earth. Starlink, on the other hand, sends satellites into Low Earth orbit at 550 miles. Latency will be reduced, and as the satellites will orbit more quickly, they will be able to cover the whole of the planet. Starlink has been authorised to send 12,000 satellites into space. To put that into perspective, Earth currently has just 2,200 artificial satellites.There are already 600 Starlink satellites orbiting, with the first launch mission dating back to February 2018. Service is set to be available in North America by the end of the year, with “near global coverage of the populated world” promised for 2021.
What about 5G? Are there environmental risks in sending all these satellites into orbit? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen the last episodes, you can click here:
Who are Arcade Fire?
What is Frontex?
What is Web 3.0?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/12/2022 • 5 minutes, 21 seconds
What is Dugnad?
What is Dugnad?
Norway has placed 8th in the recently released 2021 edition of the World Happiness Report. In preceding years, the country had ranked fifth and third in the annual publication from the UN’s Sustainable Development Solutions Network. Along with Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Switzerland and the Netherlands, this country of 5 million people is well-known for its quality of life. Furthermore, Norway is first in the world when it comes to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Democracy Index and the UN’s Human Development Index.
How does it translate into English? When does the day fall then? How is dugnad characteristic of Norway? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is de-extinction?
What are happy hormones?
What is erectile dysfunction?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/11/2022 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is de-extinction?
What is de-extinction?
The process of de-extinction is all about bringing extinct species back to life. It became known in the 2010s, thanks to an ambitious plan from American geneticist George Church, who dreamed of resurrecting the woolly mammoth, an animal which has been extinct for 3700 years. Fast forward to the 2020s and Church’s bioscience startup Colossal is now eding closer towards making that a reality. As of March 2022, Colossal announced that it had raised a total of $75M for the project.
Is it really possible to revive extinct animal species? Why would we want to bring extinct species back to life? How is the idea of de-extinction being received by the scientific community? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What are happy hormones?
What is erectile dysfunction?
Who are Arcade Fire?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/10/2022 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
[RERUN] What is negationism?
What is negationism?
Historical negationism refers to the practice of manipulating historical records to deny that certain events happened, or distort the narrative around them.
The term is relatively recent, having been coined by French historian Henry Rousso in 1987, relating to Holocaust Denial. Six million Jews were murdered by the Nazi regime during the Second World War.
Holocaust denial is certainly one of the most well-known and common examples of negationism. But similar distortion strategies have been seen relating to other genocides and war crimes across the world.
Negationism is a crime in some countries like Germany, while elsewhere the approach is more cautious, due to questions about freedom of speech. Other laws can apply to negationist statements, if they are also of a hateful or discriminatory nature.
So what exactly does negationism look like? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who are Arcade Fire?
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/10/2022 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
What are happy hormones?
What are happy hormones?
A recent scientific brief from the World Health Organisation, explained that anxiety and depression had increased by 25% worldwide over the first year of the Covid 19 pandemic. The massive rise was mostly down to social isolation and multiple stress factors like fear of infection and financial worries. It’s important to know that we can actually control our mood to some extent. It’s possible to boost our so-called happy hormones in natural ways, by opting for specific foods, activities and behaviours.
So how can we stimulate the production of these hormones and neurotransmitters? Why do they say that oxytocin is the love hormone? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Who are Arcade Fire?
Who are Rammstein?
What is Frontex?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
[SCREEN FREE WEEK] What is a sedentary lifestyle?
From 2nd to 8th May 2022, it's time to unplug for the annual Screen Free Week celebration. All around the world, people are encouraged to limit their screen time and turn their devices off in favour of other activities. Do You Really Know is rerunning a series of episodes dedicated to the digital world and its impact on our lives.
What is a sedentary lifestyle?
A sedentary lifestyle is one which involves little or no physical activity. It’s one of the major global health issues of the 21st century, as it is an underlying cause of death, disease and disability. It’s estimated that each year over 300,000 premature deaths are caused by obesity and sedentary lifestyles, just in the United States.
Screen time spent in front of a computer or TV is often a good indicator of how inactive a person is. When we sit down, our muscles don’t perform the important contractions our bodies need to clear glucose and fats from our blood. This in turn increases the risk of diabetes or heart problems.
Why are we living a sedentary lifestyle ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Streisand effect?
What is antibiotic-free meat?
What is a migraine?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/8/2022 • 5 minutes, 15 seconds
What is erectile dysfunction?
What is erectile dysfunction?
As many as six in ten men have experienced erection problems over the course of their life. And that proportion has been on the rise in the last fifteen years, according to a study released by IFOP in April 2019. It’s also known as impotence, and is a big health taboo among men. Erectile dysfunction is often linked to cardiovascular risk factors, so it’s important to consult a doctor if affected. Furthermore, it can impact relationships, sometimes due to misunderstandings about the cause of the problem. The good news is it can be addressed with lifestyle changes, as we’ll discuss in a minute.
How do erections actually work? So why might that mechanism not work in some people? What about psychological or emotional factors? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Who are Arcade Fire?
Who are Rammstein?
What is Frontex?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
[SCREEN FREE WEEK] What is CryptoParty?
From 2nd to 8th May 2022, it's time to unplug for the annual Screen Free Week celebration. All around the world, people are encouraged to limit their screen time and turn their devices off in favour of other activities. Do You Really Know is rerunning a series of episodes dedicated to the digital world and its impact on our lives.
What is CryptoParty?
The internet has become a massive part of our daily lives. But the space is also heavily monitored by tech giants for commercial purposes and by the authorities for political purposes.
Email addresses, geolocations, online purchases, photos, friends’ contact details… our personal data is a real gold mine for Big Tech. It’s become a lucrative business that raises privacy concerns and tampers with our lifestyles and consumption patterns.
Can you tell me more? Let’s cut to the chase: how can we protect our data online? Does the movement have branches in other parts of the world? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Streisand effect?
What is antibiotic-free meat?
What is a migraine?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
Who are Arcade Fire?
Who are Arcade Fire?
We, the new album from Arcade Fire, was released today, 6th May 2022. Let’s take the opportunity to talk about the renowned Canadian indie rock band. Their story may have started out as a family affair, when the band formed in Montreal in the early 2000s. But with time, they worked their way up to gaining international recognition as one of the best bands in the world.
What do you mean a family affair? What about their live shows? What should we expect from Arcade Fire in the near future? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Who are Rammstein?
What is Frontex?
What is Web 3.0?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
[SCREEN FREE WEEK] What is computer vision syndrome?
From 2nd to 8th May 2022, it's time to unplug for the annual Screen Free Week celebration. All around the world, people are encouraged to limit their screen time and turn their devices off in favour of other activities. Do You Really Know is rerunning a series of episodes dedicated to the digital world and its impact on our lives.
What is computer vision syndrome?
From our smartphone screens first thing in the morning to an evening spent in front of the TV, electronic visual displays are an inescapable part of our daily routines. In the middle, many have a 9 to 5 job sat in front of a desktop, not to mention checking social media or playing games to speed up the daily commute. Computer vision syndrome refers to eye strain caused by overuse of electronic screens. The whole eye is affected by this strain, leading to symptoms like headaches, back and neck pains, blurred vision and the inability to focus.
How does it affect our lives? And what can we do to reduce the impact of this syndrome? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Streisand effect?
What is antibiotic-free meat?
What is a migraine?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
Who are Rammstein?
Who are Rammstein?
Even if guitar riffs and guttural vocals aren’t really your thing, the name Rammstein must ring a bill. The band are the most listened to German musical artists in the world, and an institution in mainstream industrial metal. In under three decades, they’ve sold 35 million albums and it seems like it’s not over yet. As of 29th April 2022, Rammstein are back with their eighth studio album, called Zeit, which means time in German. It was largely written during a Covid-19 lockdown and recorded in France.
What does Rammstein mean in English? It must be rare for a German singing band to succeed overseas, mustn’t it? What do you mean? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Frontex?
What is Web 3.0?
What is a home exchange?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/5/2022 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
[SCREEN FREE WEEK] What is digital sobriety?
From 2nd to 8th May 2022, it's time to unplug for the annual Screen Free Week celebration. All around the world, people are encouraged to limit their screen time and turn their devices off in favour of other activities. Do You Really Know is rerunning a series of episodes dedicated to the digital world and its impact on our lives.
What is digital sobriety?
Digital sobriety is all about reducing the ecological footprint of our daily digital lifestyles. That’s right, using your cell phone, PC or connected refrigerator all contributes to pollution. And it’s on the rise.
The transition to digital technology is often presented as being a positive evolution, especially with regards to reducing household energy consumption. But current practices are contributing to global warming, according to think tank “The Shift Project”. In their 2018 report, researchers highlighted the negative impact of digital technologies, which are consuming 9% more energy every year.
So what can we do to reduce pollution ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Streisand effect?
What is antibiotic-free meat?
What is a migraine?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/5/2022 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
Who was Marilyn Monroe?
Who was Marilyn Monroe?
To mark 60 years since the Hollywood icon’s death, Netflix has released The Mystery of Marilyn Monroe: The Unheard Tapes. The documentary uses archival content and previously unseen interviews to shed further light on the story of Monroe, a woman whose life and death continue to fascinate to this day.
Was she destined to be a star from a young age? Was Marilyn Monroe really the naive blonde she’s portrayed as? Was Marilyn Monroe a feminist icon? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Frontex?
What is Web 3.0?
What is a home exchange?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
[SCREEN FREE WEEK] What is captology?
From 2nd to 8th May 2022, it's time to unplug for the annual Screen Free Week celebration. All around the world, people are encouraged to limit their screen time and turn their devices off in favour of other activities. Do You Really Know is rerunning a series of episodes dedicated to the digital world and its impact on our lives.
What is captology?
Getting internet users’ attention and influencing their online behaviour is a massive priority for Big Tech companies in this day and age. Behind their practices is captology, a term invented in 1996 by American researcher BJ Fogg. It might make you think of the word “capture” at first, but it actually comes from the initials of “Computers As Persuasive Technologies”. The idea was to study the link between digital tool design and the resulting impact on individuals’ behaviour.
Captology has often been cited as a source of inspiration for Silicon Valley entrepreneurs. To such an extent that its definition has evolved to describe all kinds of techniques used by internet giants to grab users’ attention, and make them addicted.
Coronavirus lockdowns haven’t helped and the stats are there to back it up. A global study by analytics company App Annie found the average daily time spent using a smartphone in 2020 was 4 hours and 10 minutes.
That’s crazy! So what are the secrets behind captology then? Is captology dangerous then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Streisand effect?
What is antibiotic-free meat?
What is a migraine?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/4/2022 • 5 minutes, 3 seconds
What is Frontex?
What is Frontex?
The end of last week saw the resignation of Frontex director Fabrice Leggeri. It’s not the first time the European Border and Coast Guard Agency has made headlines for the wrong reasons. This time it’s relating to complicity in illegal pushbacks of asylum seekers. An investigation report is expected soon and its French head Leggeri decided to jump before being pushed, after initial findings were released and didn’t look favourable.
How did Frontex grow to be such an important entity? Why don’t EU countries just look after their own borders? How good a job does Frontex do at protecting European borders? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Web 3.0?
What is a home exchange?
What is the Tower of Babel?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/3/2022 • 4 minutes, 45 seconds
[SCREEN FREE WEEK] What is doomscrolling?
From 2nd to 8th May 2022, it's time to unplug for the annual Screen Free Week celebration. All around the world, people are encouraged to limit their screen time and turn their devices off in favour of other activities. Do You Really Know is rerunning a series of episodes dedicated to the digital world and its impact on our lives.
What is doomscrolling?
The more bad news we hear, the more we tend to get consumed by social media feeds, incessantly scrolling through our apps. Americans have come up with a term for that phenomenon: doomscrolling. Spoiler alert: it’s not the best for your mental health.
So why do we doomscroll then ? How can we balance this against the need to stay informed? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Streisand effect?
What is antibiotic-free meat?
What is a migraine?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/3/2022 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is Web 3.0?
What is Web 3.0?
The future of the internet is the subject of much discussion, and there’s excitement about the emergence of Web 3.0. It has given high hopes to those who feel we need a decentralised, more transparent internet! When the internet was first developed, it took the form of websites with static ergonomy, which weren’t linked between one another. That was back in the 1990s, and researchers called this stage Web 1. The main purpose was circulating information via Wikipedia, emails and online media websites.
What does that all mean in concrete terms? Are we talking about a more secure internet then? What are the main limitations of Web 3.0 in its current form? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the PKK?
What is the Tower of Babel?
What is the Streisand effect?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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5/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
[SCREEN FREE WEEK] What is a digital detox?
From 2nd to 8th May 2022, it's time to unplug for the annual Screen Free Week celebration. All around the world, people are encouraged to limit their screen time and turn their devices off in favour of other activities. Do You Really Know is rerunning a series of episodes dedicated to the digital world and its impact on our lives.
What is a digital detox?
A digital detox is a period of time when a person chooses to limit their use of computers and mobile devices. The aim is to reduce the stress that can be generated by technology and spend time concentrating on real-world social interactions instead. Digital detoxes are certainly in vogue - even the major internet companies are promoting it, despite the obvious role they play in facilitating our online habits.
What are the benefits of digital detox? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Streisand effect?
What is antibiotic-free meat?
What is a migraine?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
[RERUN] What are the Puppy Blues?
What are the Puppy Blues?
You’ve no doubt already heard of the baby blues, a nice-sounding euphemism for the rather unpleasant postpartum depression. Well, some new pet owners have started talking of puppy blues in the same way, to describe the sadness they sometimes feel after adopting a new furry companion.
The puppy blues might be behind increased animal abandonment rates during the summer. Additionally, Fortune magazine reported a week ago that many Americans are surrendering their pets now the time has come to return to the office.
What is it like having the puppy blues? What can I do to get more confident about being a pet owner? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are blue zones?
What is Niksen?
What is Pop-It?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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5/1/2022 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
What is a home exchange?
What is a home exchange?
If you’re the kind of person that plans ahead, you’ve probably already got your summer holidays booked months ahead of time. Nevertheless, holidays are always pricey, with Europeans spending an average budget of €1600 over the last 3 years according to Statista. For those of us who are lucky enough to be able to travel, let’s not take it for granted. It’s a privilege, which some people unfortunately can’t afford. However, there are alternatives for those on a shoestring budget.
Well, if I’m broke I can’t go anywhere can I? It must take a lot of organisation, mustn’t it? How can I organise my first home exchange? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the PKK?
What is the Tower of Babel?
What is the Streisand effect?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
What is the PKK?
What is the PKK?
On 19th April, Turkey launched Operation Claw Lock, an air and ground military offensive against PKK forces, in the North of Iraq. The Turkish defence minister justified the country’s actions, saying that the PKK was planning a large-scale attack against Turkey. However, the Iraqi president Barham Salih criticised Operation Claw Lock, calling it a threat to his country’s national security. Such military operations have been common for forty years now, since the PKK began its rebellion against the Turkish state.
When was the PKK organisation founded and what are its goals? Where is Kurdistan actually situated? How has the PKK tried to achieve its aims? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Tower of Babel?
What is the Streisand effect?
What is antibiotic-free meat?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/29/2022 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
What is the Tower of Babel?
What is the Tower of Babel?
The subject of today’s episode is often referred to when people aren’t able to understand one another. It’s an origin myth which comes from the book of Genesis in the Bible.
Who wrote about the Tower of Babel? Did the Tower of Babel really exist? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Streisand effect?
What is antibiotic-free meat?
What is a migraine?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/28/2022 • 3 minutes, 53 seconds
[RERUN] What is induced lactation?
What is induced lactation?
Induced lactation refers to the production of breast milk in non-gestational parents. That’s right, a woman who hasn’t ever been pregnant can still breastfeed their child using this method. Sounds complicated? Well it is, but it’s not impossible, and it can allow adoptive or surrogate mothers to breastfeed if they desire.
What about men? Could they also lactate and breastfeed? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a Bullshit job?
What is Pornhub?
What are tiny forests?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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4/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
What is the Streisand effect?
What is the Streisand effect?
Entertainment icon Barbra Streisand celebrated her 80th birthday on 24th April 2022. The actress, director, producer and musician has been in the public eye since the age of 20 and belongs to a very select group known as EGOT winners. That means she’s won an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar and a Tony. Her dazzling career has seen her sell over 150 million albums worldwide, and accumulate wealth of $635M, according to a 2021 estimate. SON - cash register She’s also had a media phenomenon named after her: the Streisand effect.
How did that come to happen? What’s the psychology behind the Streisand effect? What are some prominent examples? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is antibiotic-free meat?
What is a migraine?
What is deep ecology?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/27/2022 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What is antibiotic-free meat?
What is antibiotic-free meat?
You may not have realised, but when you’re eating a chicken leg or steak, you may also be consuming antibiotics. That’s still the case despite a growing trend of not using antibiotics, due to the dangers posed by antibiorestistance. Recent research by Food ID found that animals at some American livestock farms tested positive for antibiotics, despite having been labelled as “Raised without Antibiotics”. The findings, which were published in Science magazine, have called into question labelling programs and are a reminder that it’s hard to be sure exactly what’s in the food we eat.
How do antibiotics end up in food anyway? How serious are the health risks? Aren’t there rules to limit the use of antibiotics in livestock animals? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a migraine?
What is deep ecology?
What is Seinfeld?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Chernobyl exclusion zone?
What is the Chernobyl exclusion zone?
It’s just over 36 years since the worst nuclear disaster in history. On April 26th 1986, reactor number 4 at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant exploded. Following the accident, an exclusion zone of around 1,000m2 was established by the Soviet army.
It covers the areas most affected by radioactive contamination, including the city Prypiat situated 2 miles away. Built in the 1970s to house workers from the nuclear plant, it was seen as a model Soviet metropolis, but became a ghost town when its 50,000 inhabitants were evacuated.
Does the exclusion zone still exist today? So can humans go inside the Chernobyl exclusion zone nowadays? What about temporary visits? Will people be able to live in Chernobyl again one day? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the insider-outsider theory?
What is stalkerware?
Who is Alexei Navalny?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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4/26/2022 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
What is a migraine?
What is a migraine?
These pulsing headaches are known for affecting quality of life in a high number of people. They’re one of the most common disorders in the world, with the WHO suggesting at least 1 in 7 people have migraines across the world. If you’re lucky enough not to get migraines, don't underestimate how debilitating they can be for some people. They’re far from being simple headaches.
What's the difference then? How are migraines treated? Are there any options which don’t involve taking medication? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is deep ecology?
What is Seinfeld?
What is a troll farm?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/25/2022 • 4 minutes, 1 second
[RERUN] What is critical thinking?
What is critical thinking?
Critical thinking is the intellectual process of evaluating information, thinking clearly and rationally as a guide to belief and action. You could see it as an attitude whereby no statement or piece of information is accepted as true or false, without first being carefully analysed. Simplistic conflations, generalisations and preconceptions are all challenged, as is any kind of statement made without evidence.
Critical thinking has its roots in the teachings of ancient Greek philosophers Socrates and Plato. Throughout history, philosophers like Francis Bacon, René Descartes and Emmanuel Kant have used it to create the basis for methodical thought.
So how do I go about becoming a critical thinker then? What about religion? Surely it can’t be possible for religious beliefs and critical thinking to coexist, can it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the postpartum period?
What is ketamine?
What is burnout?
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4/24/2022 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
What is The Office?
What is The Office?
It has gained revived popularity since the dawn of the streaming era, becoming the most watched series on Netflix US in 2020, with 57 billion minutes streamed. But the Office was already a new generation sitcom classic well before making its way onto the platform. The first episode was released on NBC back in May 2005.
What made The Office stand out? How did the US version go on to be so successful? What about the other characters? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Seinfeld?
What is a troll farm?
What is the perineum?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/23/2022 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
What is deep ecology?
What is deep ecology?
Today is Earth Day, so let’s talk about a philosophy that promotes the worth of all living beings on our planet, regardless of whether they cater to our human needs. Deep ecology was theorised by Norwegian philosopher Arne Naess in the 1970. He published his original paper on the subject in a 1973 edition of Inquiry journal. The article was entitled “The Shallow and the Deep, Long-Range Ecology Movements: A Summary.” It introduced the deep ecology philosophy, and distinguished it from what Naess called shallow environmentalism.
Isn’t trying to fight against pollution and the depletion of natural resources a good thing? Is deep ecology a militant movement? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Seinfeld?
What is a troll farm?
What is the perineum?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
[EARTH DAY] What is solastalgia?
Earth Day falls on 22nd April, and to mark this important date, Do You Really Know is rerunning a series of episodes about environmental issues affecting our planet. Let's take a refresher on some of the terms and concepts you need to be familiar with, in order to understand climate change. Happy listening!
What is solastalgia?
Solastalgia is the distress we feel when our local environment is transformed, mainly due to climate change. These transformations can have an effect on people’s mental health. So are we all doomed to suffer from solastalgia as the earth’s temperature rises? Climate change is so omnipresent in our daily lives, that it can create a certain anxiety. For some people, this gets so intense that they become depressed, like Greta Thunberg after watching a documentary on polar bears. All over the world, climate-related anxiety is increasing. In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen the last episodes, you can click here:
What is environmental racism?
What are plant milks?
Who is Scrooge McDuck?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 56 seconds
What is Seinfeld?
What is Seinfeld?
Let’s talk about American TV’s most lucrative sitcom ever, a show which generated over $3bn. To give you some more numbers, it lasted 9 years from 1989 through to 1998, taking in 9 seasons and 180 twenty-three minute episodes. A 2012 poll by Vanity Fair magazine declared Seinfeld the best sitcom of all time, but in Europe, it has never managed to match the success and popularity of other American sitcoms like Friends or How I met your mother.
So what’s the show about? Why is it such a cult hit? Why didn’t Seinfeld succeed outside of the United States? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a troll farm?
What is the perineum?
Who is Rosalia?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/21/2022 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
[EARTH DAY] What is environmental amnesia?
What is environmental amnesia?
Why are we so slow to become aware of climate change and act against it? The explanation may lie in our brains, which are affected by environmental amnesia. This term was invented in 1999 by American psychologist Peter H. Khan. He theorised that humans were forgetting the history of the environment, or more accurately becoming used to its degradation from generation to generation.
I guess it’s hard to ‘forget’ something you’ve never seen yourself! So why does this happen then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen the last episodes, you can click here:
What is environmental racism?
What are plant milks?
Who is Scrooge McDuck?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/21/2022 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
What is a troll farm?
What is a troll farm?
Trolls have been around for as long as the internet, but in recent years they've been getting professionalised. Indeed, companies have actually been set up with the specific aim of creating and spreading fake news online. Such organisations are known as troll farms or troll factories, and Russia has been home to some of the most prominent. Based in the city of St Petersburg, its Internet Research Agency is perhaps the most well-known and influential in the world. More worrying still, these keyboard armies often operate at the behest of governments, for propaganda purposes. Needless to say, since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February, troll farms have been highly active in spreading disinformation.
When did troll farms first appear? How did we find out about the Internet Research Agency's actions? How do troll farms operate? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the perineum?
Who is Rosalia?
What is deepfake democracy?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
[EARTH DAY] What is the Green New Deal?
Earth Day falls on 22nd April, and to mark this important date, Do You Really Know is rerunning a series of episodes about environmental issues affecting our planet. Let's take a refresher on some of the terms and concepts you need to be familiar with, in order to understand climate change. Happy listening!
What is the Green New Deal?
The Green New Deal is a proposed package of legislation in the United States, designed to tackle climate change. It was introduced by Democrats and could revolutionise the American economy, if it is ever put into practice. If the name “Green New Deal” sounds familiar, it’s likely because it refers to President Roosevelt’s New Deal of the 1930s. That consisted of a series of public works programs and financial reforms, aiming to revive the economy in response to the Great Depression of 1929.
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What is environmental racism?
What are plant milks?
Who is Scrooge McDuck?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/20/2022 • 5 minutes, 11 seconds
What is the perineum?
What is the perineum?
The perineum is a surface region of the body which stretches from the pubic arch to the coccyx. It's actually kind of like a hammock, in that it supports our organs, including the rectum and bladder, as well as the vagina and uterus for women. It's also useful at absorbing impact. When it's fully functional, the perineum tenses and relaxes like any muscle. The problem is it tends to get weaker and droop downwards as we get older, or in other specific cases, like after a pregnancy, or if a person has chronic constipation. There are also risk factors to bear in mind, including being overweight, having allergies or asthma, and regularly carrying heavy loads.
How can I know if my perineum is losing its tone? Well I’m in good shape, so I shouldn’t have to worry about my perineum, should I? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who is Rosalia?
What is deepfake democracy?
What is environmental racism?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/19/2022 • 3 minutes, 7 seconds
[EARTH DAY] What is an ecocide?
Earth Day falls on 22nd April, and to mark this important date, Do You Really Know is rerunning a series of episodes about environmental issues affecting our planet. Let's take a refresher on some of the terms and concepts you need to be familiar with, in order to understand climate change. Happy listening!
What is an ecocide?
An ecocide is a term for an act that causes significant damage to the environment or ecosystems. It comes from the Greek word éoikios, meaning home, and the Latin word caedere, meaning kill. In theory individuals, companies and states could be brought to justice for committing such acts. It’s not recognised as a crime in many places, but France is currently looking at passing a law to do just that. The term was first used in the early 1970s in response to strategic deforestation by the American military in Vietnam, carried out with a herbicide called Agent Orange. This was used as a chemical weapon to destroy the forest cover and food resources relied on by Vietnamese guerilla fighters.
So what’s caused the French to consider making ecocide a crime? What’s going on elsewhere then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is IQ?
What is Fintech?
What is GAFAM?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
What is melatonin?
What is melatonin?
The hormone melatonin is produced naturally by the body at nighttime, in response to darkness. It's nicknamed the sleep hormone due to its role in our Circadian rhythm, getting us ready to go to sleep in the evening. It's secreted by the pineal gland, located at the back of the brain, and then released into the bloodstream. In the morning, another hormone called cortisol takes over and transitions us into wakefulness.
Can't you also get melatonin supplements? Great; I’m off to the pharmacy then! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who is Rosalia?
What is deepfake democracy?
What is environmental racism?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/18/2022 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
[EARTH DAY] What is biomass?
Earth Day falls on 22nd April, and to mark this important date, Do You Really Know is rerunning a series of episodes about environmental issues affecting our planet. Let's take a refresher on some of the terms and concepts you need to be familiar with, in order to understand climate change. Happy listening!
What is biomass?
Biomass is organic matter, mainly coming from plants or animals, used for energy production. European governments consider biomass to be the world’s main source of renewable energy. But some NGOs have refused to agree that biomass is green energy.
If petrol is liable to disappear, have we finally found a sustainable alternative? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen the last episodes, you can click here:
What is environmental racism?
What are plant milks?
Who is Scrooge McDuck?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/18/2022 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
[EARTH DAY] What is carbon footprint?
Earth Day falls on 22nd April, and to mark this important date, Do You Really Know is rerunning a series of episodes about environmental issues affecting our planet. Let's take a refresher on some of the terms and concepts you need to be familiar with, in order to understand climate change. Happy listening!
What is carbon footprint?
Postponed for a year because of Covid-19, COP26 meets in Scotland from October 31 to November 12. A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted by the energy and raw material consumption of a person, organisation or event. It is measured in the volume of CO2 emitted. Per capita emissions in the USA are estimated at around 16 tons per year. That includes CO2 produced directly by an individual’s household, and emissions created by products they consume. The rough split is 70/30 between the two.
It’s a bit of a vague calculation though, isn’t it? But it must be pretty darn difficult to place an accurate value on the impact of all living beings in a country? How can I reduce my own footprint? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the metaverse?
What is Netflix?
What is Tinder?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/17/2022 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What is war rape?
What is war rape?
In a report published on 3rd April, international NGO Human Rights Watch made allegations of "war crimes" carried out by Russian soldiers against civilians in occupied areas of Ukraine. These included executions, violence, threats and war rape, which is the subject of today’s episode. Since the start of the war, accounts have begun to emerge, with the truth being brought to light by victims and witnesses. A woman from a village near to Kharkiv told how she had been beaten, cut with a knife and repeatedly raped by a Russian soldier.
Why does war lead to more rapes? How far back do the first records of war rape go? How is war rape punished? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Who is Rosalia?
What is deepfake democracy?
What is environmental racism?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
[EARTH DAY] What is carbon neutrality?
Earth Day falls on 22nd April, and to mark this important date, Do You Really Know is rerunning a series of episodes about environmental issues affecting our planet. Let's take a refresher on some of the terms and concepts you need to be familiar with, in order to understand climate change. Happy listening!
What is carbon neutrality?
All over the world, states are committing to reaching carbon neutrality in coming decades. That means achieving net zero CO2 emissions, by not emitting more than what planet Earth is able to absorb. If humanity doesn’t manage it, climate change could quickly become irreversible. We’re already feeling the effects of global warming through heatwaves, rising water levels, flooding, mudslides and loss of biodiversity. And it’s only just getting started, unless humanity manages to follow the IPCC’s recommendations to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. That’s what 195 countries signed up for with the 2016 Paris Agreement. One of the main ways of meeting that target is through carbon neutrality.
Does that mean we’ll totally stop emitting CO2? How close are we to reaching that balance right now? That’s a lot of work to do, in not a lot of time! How on earth are we going to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050? ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a non-essential shop?
What are incels?
What is blasphemy?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
Who is Rosalia?
Who is Rosalia?
Following the release of her latest album Motomami, Rosalia Vila Tobella was called a visionary and compared to artists like M.I.A. and Madonna by the Wall Street Journal. It’s fair to say she seems destined to be one of the biggest pop stars of her generation. So let’s take a moment to discuss the career of a singer who is winning critical and popular acclaim with everything she does.
How did she get to where she is today? Well, where do you go from there huh?! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is deepfake democracy?
What is environmental racism?
What are plant milks?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
What is deepfake democracy?
What is deepfake democracy?
On 9th March, opposition leader Yoon Suk Yeol won the 2022 South Korean presidential election. His campaign stood out through a fascinating and creative use of deepfake technology. Think back to our previous episode on the subject of deepfakes. You’ll remember it’s an online media technique which consists of creating realistic but fake visual content through deep learning and artificial intelligence.
How was it used in Yoon’s campaign? Was the strategy behind Yoon’s success in the election? Could it also be a threat to democracy? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is dissociative identity disorder?
What is environmental racism?
What are plant milks?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
What is dissociative identity disorder?
What is dissociative identity disorder?
Still to this day, this psychological condition is most often referred to by its previous name: multiple personality disorder. That’s in particular down to exaggerated representations in popular culture like books, TV or cinema. Some prominent examples are the story of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho or, more recently, Split. Experts have criticised the use of DID as a plot device in such representations, saying they often confuse it with other disorders like psychosis or schizophrenia. They also perpetuate certain myths about people with mental illnesses. These include the idea that they are usually dangerous or have flamboyant personalities.
So what is DID really like then? Doesn’t that happen to everyone? Where does it come from? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is environmental racism?
What are plant milks?
Who is Scrooge McDuck?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/13/2022 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What is environmental racism?
What is environmental racism?
We’ve covered a lot of environmental issues on Do You Really Know? so regular listeners will be well aware of how the climate crisis is affecting the whole planet. But it’s important to also note how these problems don’t affect everyone equally. People in developing countries, particularly in the Southern Hemisphere, are already feeling the impact on their income, physical health and surrounding environment. That’s despite industrialised countries having contributed far more to global warming overall.
What kind of environmental problems are we talking about exactly? Do you have any concrete examples? What about on an international level? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are plant milks?
Who is Scrooge McDuck?
What is permafrost?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/12/2022 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
What are plant milks?
What are plant milks?
Plant milks have been all the rage for a number of years now, and they’re gradually taking up more and more space on supermarket shelves, to the detriment of animal milks. In 2020, British shoppers spent £100m more on plant milks compared to the previous year, according to research from Mintel. That was a rise of over 30%, demonstrating their growing popularity.
But these products aren’t really milks, are they? Are they really better from a nutritional point of view? Is it true that plant milks are better for the environment? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Who is Scrooge McDuck?
What is permafrost?
What is survivalism?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/11/2022 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
[RERUN] What is HAARP ?
What is HAARP ?
The acronym HAARP stands for High Frequency Auroral Research Program. It’s an American research project dedicated to analysing the ionosphere. HAARP is funded by the American armed forces, and has been the target of conspiracy theorists since the 1990s. They believe the program is responsible for natural disasters and mind-controlling radio waves.
The ionmmm osphere is a layer of the Earth’s upper atmosphere, from around 37 miles to 620 miles in altitude. Its characteristics are complex and varied due to solar activity. It is of interest to scientists studying the atmosphere, as well as armed forces, as it plays an important role in radio wave propagation. In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who are the Red Hot Chili Peppers?
What is survivalism?
What is Swedish neutrality?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/10/2022 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
What is hay fever?
What is hay fever?
The start of spring is often synonymous with the appearance of hay fever and you may have already started feeling the first signs. Also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, it’s caused by exposure to certain pollen in the air. Hay fever affects over 15% of the population according to New Scientist magazine, and incidence has reached as high as 30% among adults in the UK. Furthermore, it seems to be becoming more and more common, due to factors like global warming and atmospheric pollution which are increasing pollen concentration.
How can you recognise hay fever? What can be done to reduce symptoms? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Who is Scrooge McDuck?
What is permafrost?
What is survivalism?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/9/2022 • 3 minutes, 52 seconds
Who is Scrooge McDuck?
Who is Scrooge McDuck?
In 2022, the richest, brightest and wiliest of all ducks is celebrating the 75th anniversary of his creation. Uncle Scrooge is one of the most well-known Disney characters, and brings back childhood memories of watching cartoons for many of us.
What's so unique about Scrooge McDuck? When did Disney create the Scrooge character? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Who are the Red Hot Chili Peppers?
What is survivalism?
What is Swedish neutrality?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/8/2022 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
What is permafrost?
What is permafrost?
Permafrost is ground that remains frozen for two years or more. It’s made up of soil, rocks and sand, and held together by ice. In some places, this ground layer formed over 100,000 years ago, and can reach several miles in depth. Around 24% of land in the Northern Hemisphere has permafrost underneath it, according to the US National Snow and Ice Data Center. It’s mostly found in Arctic countries, in places like Russia, Canada and Alaska. As planet Earth’s climate warms, this permafrost is thawing, an alarming situation which is already having a dramatic impact.
What’s happening to the permafrost then? How does that affect the rest of us who don’t live in those regions? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is survivalism?
What is Swedish neutrality?
What is the Ukrainian International Legion?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/7/2022 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
Who are the Red Hot Chili Peppers?
Who are the Red Hot Chili Peppers?
With their new album Unlimited Love having been released on 1st April, let’s talk about the famous Californian funk rock group. The band has cited many influences, and they have been associated with a number of musical genres, including funk rock, alternative rock and rap rock. The Red Hot Chili Peppers unique style is precisely one of their distinctive characteristics.
So where does the name come from? Why did the band members change so often? How would you describe the Red Hot Chili Peppers musical style? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Swedish neutrality?
What is the Ukrainian International Legion?
Who is Sonic?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
What is survivalism?
What is survivalism?
This social movement is all about proactively preparing for a wide range of emergencies. You could call it a pessimistic outlook, thinking it’s necessary to prepare for the worst. But there are more and more survivalists out there, with profiles and political views that vary radically. Survivalism first emerged in 1960s America, when against the backdrop of the Cold War, and the apparent threat of nuclear conflict between the United States and Russia. Many books on survival were published, some of which went on to become bestsellers. Economic crises and major tragedies only led to the movement growing further through to the early 2000s.
Are survivalists those weirdos who lock themselves up in bunkers armed to the teeth with weapons? Are we really going to put all those people in the same basket? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Swedish neutrality?
What is the Ukrainian International Legion?
Who is Sonic?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/5/2022 • 3 minutes, 38 seconds
What is Swedish neutrality?
What is Swedish neutrality?
Sweden’s neutrality policy is well-known in the field of international relations. It has allowed the country to go over two centuries without being at war. That makes it the nation which has had the longest period of peace. So Sweden isn’t part of any military alliance, and doesn’t take sides when wars break out. Other European countries like Austria and Switzerland also take a similar position, although it’s certainly being put to the test by Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
How did Sweden’s neutrality start out? How can Sweden remain neutral while being a member of the EU? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Ukrainian International Legion?
Who is Sonic?
What is sign singing?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
[RERUN] What is conversion therapy?
What is conversion therapy?
Boris Johnson's UK government on March 31, 2022 dropped its ban on conversion therapies, which claim to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. In the midst of the scandal surrounding pedocriminality within the Catholic Church, conversion therapies have been voted to be banned in France on October 5, 2021. Conversion therapy, also known as homotherapy, is a pseudoscientific practice that seeks to convert homosexuals to heterosexuality, or at least encourage them to be abstinent. Largely pushed by religious groups, this kind of therapy is still growing in Europe and America. The practices are not only ineffective, but can also be dangerous.
OK so it’s mainly a thing in religious or conservative countries, is it? So does it actually work? Can you change someone’s sexual orientation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Ukrainian International Legion?
Who is Sonic?
What is sign singing?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/3/2022 • 3 minutes, 45 seconds
What is the Blue Marble?
What is the Blue Marble?
It’s been fifty years since humans last went to the moon, as part of the Apollo 17 space mission. The mission also brought one of the world’s most iconic and widely reproduced photographs, the Blue Marble. It was taken by one of the crew members using a Hasselblad Data Camera on 7th December 1972 capturing Planet Earth from over 25,000 miles away.
How did it get the name? So are you saying no one has managed to take a similar picture since 1972? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Ukrainian International Legion?
Who is Sonic?
What is sign singing?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
What is the Ukrainian International Legion?
What is the Ukrainian International Legion?
Since the invasion of Ukraine began on 24th February 2022, governments have been reluctant to send troops into the warzone, despite expressing outrage at Russian aggression. Nevertheless, media reports have shed light on the thousands of foreign citizens, mostly men, leaving worried families behind to travel to Ukraine. On the ground, they’re fighting, providing first aid and helping displaced people leave the country. In the days following the start of the invasion, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky created the country’s International Legion and appealed to foreign nationals to join.
Where are all these volunteer soldiers coming from? So why are they risking their lives for a war not involving their home country? Are volunteers actually allowed to leave their home country to go to war? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who is Sonic?
What is sign singing?
What is temporary protection?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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4/1/2022 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
Who is Sonic?
Who is Sonic?
As fast and cocky as ever before, Sonic is set to return to cinema screens this week with the release of Sonic 2. We all know that the small blue hedgehog originally started out as a video game star. So just how did the face of Japanese game studio SEGA end up becoming such a major figure in pop culture?
Tell me about Sonic the Hedgehog’s beginnings. How was he created? Was the first game well received? How did Sonic manage to survive that setback? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is sign singing?
What is temporary protection?
What are the Minsk Agreements?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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3/31/2022 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
What is sign singing?
What is sign singing?
Deafness is known for being an invisible disability, which can lead to exclusion and loneliness. According to a Human Rights Watch article from 2019, 70 million deaf people across the world use sign language to communicate. Well sign singers take that one step further, by adapting song lyrics into sign language for the deaf and hard of hearing.
How do sign singers translate music? Where does it come from? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is temporary protection?
What are the Minsk Agreements?
What is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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3/30/2022 • 3 minutes, 35 seconds
What is temporary protection?
What is temporary protection?
According to United Nations estimates from just over a week ago, more than 10 million Ukrainians have fled their homes since the start of the Russian invasion in February 2022. 3.4 million of them have left Ukraine, with 90% being women and children given that all men under 60 are required to stay and defend their country. It’s been described as the “fastest growing refugee crisis since the Second World War”, by the UN’s High Commissioner for Refugees.
What rights and provisions does it grant? Is this a new EU policy then? What about refugees from elsewhere? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are the Minsk Agreements?
What is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?
What is myopia?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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3/29/2022 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
What are the Minsk Agreements?
What are the Minsk Agreements?
The main aim of the 2014 and 2015 Minsk Agreements was to prevent war in Europe, but they were repeatedly breached over the years, and eventually became obsolete when Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Fighting broke out in Ukraine’s Donbas region in early 2014, opposing pro-Russian separatists and the Ukrainian army.
How did the Agreements come to be signed? What was actually in the agreements? Are we saying the Agreements no longer stand then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?
What is myopia?
What is nuclear deterrence?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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3/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
[RERUN] Who is Alexei Navalny?
Who is Alexei Navalny?
Alexei Navalny was sentenced on Tuesday 22 March 2022 to an additional nine years in prison after being found guilty of fraud and contempt of court. In late March 2021, Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny began a hunger strike in his prison cell. A few weeks later he was transferred to a prison hospital, with his allies declaring he was “close to dying”. Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Moscow, St Petersburg and over 40 other cities. Police arrested over 1700 people. At the same time, UN human rights experts called for Navalny to be evacuated from the country. They said his life was in “serious danger” due to harsh prison conditions and inadequate medical care.
What can you tell me about Navalny’s background? What’s happened to Navalny since the Novichok poisoning? Will international pressure have any impact? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Wagner Group?
What is the Azov Battalion?
What is Crimea?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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3/27/2022 • 5 minutes, 52 seconds
What is an oil shock?
What is an oil shock?
The day Russian forces invaded Ukraine in February 2022, the price of crude oil surged over the $100 a barrel mark for the first time since 2014. Soon, economic sanctions would be announced against Russia, with buyers shunning exports from the world’s third largest oil producing country. For over a century, oil has been both a fuel and a barometer for the world economy. But it can also be a double-edged sword as Western countries found out in the 1970s. At the start of the 1970s, the post-war boom was coming to an end. From 1971 onwards, things started going downhill, and oil ended up being at the heart of an unprecedented economic and geopolitical crisis.
How did the 1973 crisis come around? How did the oil-dependent Western countries react? What is the current situation, given Russia’s invasion of Ukraine? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?
What is myopia?
What is nuclear deterrence?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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3/26/2022 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
What is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?
What is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?
According to the World Health Organisation, harmful use of alcohol accounts for 3 million deaths each year. Indeed, it’s the third leading cause of preventable death, and causes a large burden for societies across the world.
Of course regular alcohol consumption doesn’t always kill, but it can lead to other health problems, including neurological disorders. Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is one such example. It’s the combination of Wernicke encephalopathy and Korsakoff Syndrome. Both are linked to vitamin B1 deficiency.
What are the symptoms of this syndrome? How does it develop? Are there any forms of treatment? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is myopia?
What is nuclear deterrence?
What is the Wagner Group?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/25/2022 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What is myopia?
What is myopia?
According to a 2019 study from the Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science journal, almost 60% of all humans will have some form of myopia by 2050. That means as many as 5 billion people will be short-sighted, unable to clearly see objects more than 5 yards away. And that’s not at all; already one in three people suffer from myopia, a figure which rises to nearly 50% in some parts of east Asia! Some observers have labelled myopia an epidemic and researchers believe the increase is largely linked to lifestyle factors. We’re spending less time outdoors and more time on intense close up viewing activities.
I thought myopia was a hereditary condition What does daylight have to do with it? Is myopia a serious condition? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is nuclear deterrence?
What is the Wagner Group?
What is the Azov Battalion?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/24/2022 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
What is nuclear deterrence?
What is nuclear deterrence?
Three days after his army invaded Ukraine, Russian president Vladimir Putin announced he was raising his country’s military nuclear deterrence threat level. He justified the move by citing the economic sanctions placed on Russia by the West, as well as what he called “aggressive statements” from NATO.
Isn’t the idea of deterrence forces a contradiction? Which countries actually have nuclear weapons? Which countries actually have nuclear weapons? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Wagner Group?
What is the Azov Battalion?
What is Crimea?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/23/2022 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What is the Wagner Group?
What is the Wagner Group?
In late February 2022, The Times revealed that members of Russian paramilitary Wagner Group had been sent to Ukrainian capital Kyiv with the mission of assassinating president Volodymyr Zelensky. Indeed, Zelensky himself claimed that he was the number one target during a speech on 25th February, just a day after the Russian invasion had begun. The Times said 400 private military contractors from the secretive organisation had arrived in Kyiv in January, flown in from Africa. And just last Sunday, Ukraine’s defense ministry warned that further mercenaries had been sent in to target the country’s political and military leaders.
What is the group’s background? Who’s behind the Wagner Group? Is the Wagner group known outside of Russia? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Azov Battalion?
What is Crimea?
What is Truth Social?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What is the Azov Battalion?
What is the Azov Battalion?
You’ve more than likely seen images of these Ukrainian fighters on social media since the Russian invasion began in late February. They can be recognised by their tattoos and Nazi emblems on their uniforms. The battalion takes its name from the Sea of Azov which is bounded by Ukraine and Russia. The neo-Nazi group are battling at the heart of the Ukrainian army, which has led to Vladimir Putin justifying Russian aggression by saying he wants to “denazify” Ukraine. Many see this as a pretext, especially when you consider that his Ukrainian counterpart Volodylyr Zelensky is himself Jewish.
Is the Battalion part of the Ukrainian army then? So are they really neo Nazis? What role is the Azov Battalion playing in the ongoing conflict? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Truth Social?
Who is Andy Warhol?
What is NATO?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/21/2022 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
[RERUN] What is Wikileaks?
What is Wikileaks?
On December 10th, a UK court ruled that Wikileaks founder Julian Assange could be extradited to the United States. The Australian is currently being held on remand in Belmarsh Prison for breaching the terms of his bail, but he also faces long-standing espionnage charges from the US. Those relate to the publication of secret documents on US army activity in Afghanistan, over a decade ago. That would lead to the former hacker being labelled as the US’ public enemy number one by some observers.
When was Wikileaks actually created? How did the video come to light? Did Wikileaks continue to publish during that time? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Who is Andy Warhol?
What is NATO?
Who is Batman?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 1 second
What is Crimea?
What is Crimea?
Crimea is a peninsula which belongs to Ukraine and lies on the Black Sea. It has a population of over 2 million people and its surface area is comparable to that of Belgium at over 10,000 square miles. To the east, it is separated from the Russian Tamar Peninsula by the Kerch Strait. According to a 2014 census carried out by Russia, 59% of Crimeans identify as Russian, compared to just 22% of Ukrainians. The rest of the population belong to the nomadic Turkish-speaking community of Tatar Muslims, who Stalin deported en masse in 1944. Between 80% and 90% of people currently living in Crimea are Russian speakers.
So was the peninsula originally a Russian territory? Why is Crimea at the heart of the Russia-Ukraine conflict? How did things escalate from then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Truth Social?
Who is Andy Warhol?
What is NATO?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
What is Truth Social?
What is Truth Social?
On February 22nd, Trump Media & Technology Group launched its own social network called Truth Social, with the platform having first been announced in October 2021. Former US president Donald Trump is hoping it will be a springboard for his 2024 election campaign.
Why did Trump launch his own social network then? Is Truth Social really an open platform for users to say what they want, without having their views suppressed? How successful has the Truth Social launch been so far? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Who is Andy Warhol?
What is NATO?
Who is Batman?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/18/2022 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
Who is Andy Warhol?
Who is Andy Warhol?
Ryan Murphy, the creator behind hit series such as Glee and American Horror Story, has now tackled a legendary figure of pop culture through his latest project. Docuseries The Andy Warhol Diaries went live on Netflix on the 9th of March. Viewers can explore the fascinating story of American artist Andy Warhol, a man who was certainly a leading figure in pop art, and is credited by many with inventing it. Active in the second half of the 20th century, he worked with many iconic celebrities, such as Michael Jackson and Marilyn Monroe, and left a lasting influence on the art industry, for better and for worse!
How would you describe Andy Warhol’s artwork? Is it true Warhol was obsessed with celebrity? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Kintsugi philosophy?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is Cinderella complex?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is emotional labour?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/17/2022 • 4 minutes, 56 seconds
What is NATO?
What is NATO?
The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation is an international alliance between Western countries. It was created in 1949, just a few years after the end of World War II, bringing together 12 member states from Europe and North America. The founding treaty, also known as the Washington Treaty, is a political and military agreement to jointly protect the land and population of member states and thus ensure lasting peace.
What’s the idea behind the NATO alliance? What’s the link with the EU then? Why has NATO been discussed so much since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Kintsugi philosophy?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is Cinderella complex?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is emotional labour?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/16/2022 • 5 minutes, 2 seconds
Who is Batman?
Who is Batman?
The Batman hit UK cinemas on March 4th, the latest in a long line of big screen appearances for the Dark Knight. The franchise has proved hugely successful. But you may be surprised to know that Batman nearly didn’t survive his early years as a comic book character.
How was Batman created? Are we saying Batman used violence? How did publishers get around the issue? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Kintsugi philosophy?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is Cinderella complex?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is emotional labour?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What is the Kintsugi philosophy?
What is the Kintsugi philosophy?
In Japanese, the word Kintsugi means golden repair. It’s a technique of repairing broken pottery using lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum.
The art of Kintsugi dates back to the 16th century and it’s a true ode to imperfection and fragility. It encourages us to handle objects with care, but also to accept breakage and repair as part of their history.
How was Kintsugi created? And why does the repair take so long? But what does philosophy have to do with the craft? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is Cinderella complex?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is emotional labour?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is a false pregnancy?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
[RERUN WOMEN'S DAY] What is sex work?
To celebrate International Women's Day, which falls on March 8th, Bababam is replaying Do You Really Know episodes which look at the struggle against inequalities between women and men. All week long, refresh your knowledge about ideas and concepts which promote female empowerment.
What is sex work?
Sex work is basically a term used for any practices involving a sexual service, whether physical or not, in exchange for money. Contrary to popular opinion, it’s not simply limited to prostitution. The term also includes lap dancing, phone sex, erotic massage and escort services for example. Not to mention online services like webcam performance and adult content creation. The term sex workers is sometimes abbreviated to SW.
Where does the expression come from? What does it do? How does that fit in with the feminist movement? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is eco-anxiety?
What is the metaverse?
What is Netflix?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/13/2022 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is menorrhagia?
To celebrate International Women's Day, which falls on March 8th, Bababam is playing Do You Really Know episodes which look at the struggle against inequalities between women and men. All week long, discover ideas and concepts which promote female empowerment.
What is menorrhagia?
Menstruation is still somewhat of a taboo, even in 2022. We often resort to euphemisms when referring to it, like talking about Code Red or the time of the month. All week long we’ve been discussing women’s issues in honour of International Women’s Day, and this is another case where society needs to make progress.
What causes such heavy bleeding? Are there treatment options? How can we make it easier for women to deal with menorrhagia? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is Cinderella complex?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is emotional labour?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is a false pregnancy?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/12/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
[RERUN WOMEN'S DAY] What is the postpartum period?
To celebrate International Women's Day, which falls on March 8th, Bababam is replaying Do You Really Know episodes which look at the struggle against inequalities between women and men. All week long, refresh your knowledge about ideas and concepts which promote female empowerment.
What is the postpartum period?
Many people wrongly assume that all women immediately find their feet after having a baby. In reality, it can be an overwhelming phase which is often neglected.
The postpartum period begins as the mother’s body starts returning to a non-pregnant state. It’s commonly used to refer to the first six weeks following childbirth, but it may last significantly longer, with a range of physical and psychological symptoms.
So what actually happens during the postpartum period? Is postpartum just a fancy word for the baby blues then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is an endemic?
What is cholesterol?
What is Uncharted?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/12/2022 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is Cinderella complex?
To celebrate International Women's Day, which falls on March 8th, Bababam is playing Do You Really Know episodes which look at the struggle against inequalities between women and men. All week long, discover ideas and concepts which promote female empowerment.
What is Cinderella complex?
Cinderella is perhaps the archetypal Disney princess, with her legacy living on generations after its cinema release in 1950. Indeed, American screenwriter Kay Cannon wrote and directed a romantic musical version of the old fairytale in autumn 2021. But poor Cinders has come in for slack from some quarters for being too dependent, and portraying an old-fashioned idea of femininity. In the 1980s, she even had a syndrome named after her. As part of our IWD 2022 celebrations, let’s consider how the Cinderella complex affects some women, and what can be done to continue progress in the area.
Who theorised the Cinderella Complex then? What’s the link with Cinderella? Isn’t Cinderella an abuse victim though? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is emotional labour?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is a false pregnancy?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is International Women’s Day?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/11/2022 • 5 minutes, 1 second
[RERUN WOMEN'S DAY] What is the Matilda Effect?
To celebrate International Women's Day, which falls on March 8th, Bababam is replaying Do You Really Know episodes which look at the struggle against inequalities between women and men. All week long, refresh your knowledge about ideas and concepts which promote female empowerment.
What is the Matilda Effect?
Imagine humanity only using half the brains at its disposal to solve the many scientific challenges it faces in the present and future. While such an idea might seem crazy, it’s not so far from reality. In recognition of International Women’s Day, which took place on Monday, let’s discuss a form of bias known as the Matilda Effect.
Over the years, very few female scientists have got the same level of acclaim as their male counterparts, whether it be in the history books or on award winner lists. As a simple illustration, if you ask someone to name a female scientist, Marie Curie may well be the first name they come up with. Even so, her husband is often referenced as having contributed to her work, and she is rarely referred to by her last name alone.
Where did the name Matilda effect come from? Do you have any examples of forgotten female scientists? What can we do to help these female scientists be remembered? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is cyclothymia?
What is long COVID?
What is Clubhouse?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/11/2022 • 5 minutes, 29 seconds
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is emotional labour?
To celebrate International Women's Day, which falls on March 8th, Bababam is playing Do You Really Know episodes which look at the struggle against inequalities between women and men. All week long, discover ideas and concepts which promote female empowerment.
What is emotional labour?
When we go to work, we get paid a salary for our efforts, to put food on the table, pay the rent and bills and so on. But there’s a lot of other intangible responsibilities in daily life which go unrewarded. Remembering family birthdays, looking after kids or greeting people with a smile, for example. This kind of energy exertion often serves the purpose of addressing others’ feelings, making them comfortable, or simply meeting society’s expectations because we feel we have to. It’s been given the label of emotional labour, and it affects women disproportionately. All week long, we’re discussing themes which demonstrate the ongoing presence of gender inequalities in society.
Simply smiling isn’t too much to ask, is it? Is this a new internet age concept then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is a false pregnancy?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is International Women’s Day?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is benevolent sexism?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/10/2022 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
[RERUN WOMEN'S DAY] What is the female gaze?
To celebrate International Women's Day, which falls on March 8th, Bababam is replaying Do You Really Know episodes which look at the struggle against inequalities between women and men. All week long, refresh your knowledge about ideas and concepts which promote female empowerment.
What is the female gaze?
The term “female gaze” has been used in recent years to describe art that subverts the male perspective. The concept is seen as a response to Laura Mulvey’s 1975 essay about the so-called “male gaze”. Historically, this has been the dominant way of viewing art forms, with the male creator and male characters catering to male viewers. The rest of the characters often exist mainly to serve the male lead, his interests and his story. As a result, women have often been objectified or ignored, with their characters oversimplified.
Why has this happened? Is it about reversing the roles and objectifying men rather than women? What are some examples of female gaze films then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen the last episodes, you can click here:
What is white privilege?
What is CrossFit?
What is jiko sekinin?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/10/2022 • 5 minutes, 20 seconds
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is a false pregnancy?
To celebrate International Women's Day, which falls on March 8th, Bababam is playing Do You Really Know episodes which look at the struggle against inequalities between women and men. All week long, discover ideas and concepts which promote female empowerment.
What is a false pregnancy?
Society has traditionally put a lot of pressure on women to get pregnant, as if their lives were somehow a failure if they didn’t manage to have children, or chose not to. Believe it or not, it’s possible for a woman to experience physical pregnancy symptoms without actually having an embryo in her womb at all. It’s a rare psychiatric disorder known as a false pregnancy or pseudocyesis. Physical symptoms can be observed, like the interruption of the menstrual cycle, nausea, weight gain, secretion of colostrum from the mammary glands, a swollen stomach and even contractions in some cases. These symptoms only reinforce a patient’s impression that they are pregnant for real.
What are the causes of a false pregnancy? How can we help a person who’s been through a false pregnancy? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is International Women’s Day?
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is benevolent sexism?
Who is Volodymyr Zelensky?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
[RERUN WOMEN'S DAY] What is endometriosis?
To celebrate International Women's Day, which falls on March 8th, Bababam is replaying Do You Really Know episodes which look at the struggle against inequalities between women and men. All week long, refresh your knowledge about ideas and concepts which promote female empowerment.
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition which affects one in ten women. The main symptom is pelvic pain, which can be more intense during menstruation. Although it affects a relatively high proportion of women, the condition is commonly misdiagnosed.
Each month, the womb lining thickens as part of the menstrual cycle. This is to prepare the womb to host a foetus in case of pregnancy. If no fertilization takes place, the lining detaches and is discharged from the body along with blood.
But it’s totally normal to have painful cramps during menstruation, isn’t it? How do women “catch” endometriosis then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is an endemic?
What is cholesterol?
What is Uncharted?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is International Women’s Day?
To celebrate International Women's Day, which falls on March 8th, Bababam is playing Do You Really Know episodes which look at the struggle against inequalities between women and men. All week long, discover ideas and concepts which promote female empowerment.
What is International Women’s Day?
Every year, International Women’s Day falls on March 8th. It’s a global celebration of women’s achievements in economics, culture and politics. Furthermore, it’s an important occasion to continue the struggle for women’s rights, with inequality still commonplace across the world. International Women’s Day is a public holiday in a number of countries in the world, including Russia and around a dozen former Soviet states. Meanwhile, in China, it is an official holiday but for women only!
How long has the celebration been around? What are women’s demands in this day and age? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is benevolent sexism?
Who is Volodymyr Zelensky?
What is a 419 scam?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/8/2022 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
[RERUN WOMEN'S DAY] What is consent?
To celebrate International Women's Day, which falls on March 8th, Bababam is replaying Do You Really Know episodes which look at the struggle against inequalities between women and men. All week long, refresh your knowledge about ideas and concepts which promote female empowerment.
Public discussion around the issue of consent has been greatly increased in recent years, thanks to the MeToo movement, and the resulting Harvey Weinstein trial. So when can we consider that a woman or a man has actually consented to having sex?
So when do we consider that a rape has been committed? Are there situations in which people are not able to consent? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen the last episodes, you can click here:
What is an endemic?
What is cholesterol?
What is Uncharted?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/8/2022 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
[WOMEN'S DAY] What is benevolent sexism?
To celebrate International Women's Day, which falls on March 8th, Bababam is playing Do You Really Know episodes which look at the struggle against inequalities between women and men. All week long, discover ideas and concepts which promote female empowerment.
What is benevolent sexism?
Discussions of sexism are commonplace in public discourse. And despite government policies aimed to ensure equality between women and men, the problem persists. Even if in your immediate environment, sexism seems to be gone for good, you may be thinking of sexism in its classical sense. Experts say that more discreet forms remain, and benevolent sexism is one of them.
Can a form of prejudice really be benevolent? What kind of remarks, for example? But something called benevolent can’t be too harmful, can it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Who is Volodymyr Zelensky?
What is a 419 scam?
What is the Barnum effect?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
[RERUN WOMEN'S DAY] What is body positivity ?
To celebrate International Women's Day, which falls on March 8th, Bababam is replaying Do You Really Know episodes which look at the struggle against inequalities between women and men. All week long, refresh your knowledge about ideas and concepts which promote female empowerment.
What is body positivity ?
Body positivity has taken over social media in the last few years. The movement is based on the relationship we have with our bodies, encouraging us to achieve self-acceptance. The drive took off in 1996 thanks to two American women. Elizabeth Scott, a psychotherapist, was contacted by Connie Sobczak, who was victim to an eating disorder at the time. In honour of her dead sister, Sobczak created the Body Positive movement along with Scott. The organisation encourages individuals to change the world, rather than feeling the need to change their bodies . The two founders continue to offer seminars and other group training sessions to this day.
What does the movement really offer people to help with their body image? How are body positive posts immune to that treatment? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is an endemic?
What is cholesterol?
What is Uncharted?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
[RERUN] What is an authoritarian regime?
What is an authoritarian regime?
On 24 February 2022, Russia launched a military operation in Ukraine, provoking a war. An authoritarian regime is a form of government which monopolises authority and restricts political freedoms. Such regimes have strong central power and little accountability to their population. Authoritarianism is effectively the opposite of democracy. The term has come back into the news of late, with the reelection of Alexander Lukashenko as President of Belarus. He will now serve a sixth consecutive term, having remained head of state since 1994. His regime is considered authoritarian. Indeed, international media often refer to Lukashenko as “Europe’s last dictator”.
So what are the characteristics of an authoritarian regime? Are there many authoritarian regimes in the world today? And why don’t other countries take sanctions against them? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is a 419 scam?
What is the Barnum effect?
What is an endemic?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What is the Donbas region?
What is the Donbas region?
War has been raging in Ukraine since Russian forces invaded the country on February 24th. Understanding the conflict requires knowledge of the territory under attack, including specific regions like the Donbas, which you’ll have heard mentioned over and over again recently. It’s a 6500-square-mile region in eastern Ukraine, which shares a border with Russia to the east. Donbas’ three major cities are Mariupol, Donetsk and Lugansk, with the latter two being capitals of their respective provinces. Donbas is an abbreviation of Donets Coal basin, with the Donets being a river that crosses Ukraine and Russia; Donbas has not only the country’s major coal basin, but also its largest coal reserves and wheat fields. It was in the Donbas region that fighting first began back in 2014.
So you’re saying there was already a war in Ukraine? How did the Donbas conflict evolve from then onwards? What consequences did the Donbas war have on the region? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is the Swift Network?
Who is Volodymyr Zelensky?
What is a 419 scam?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/5/2022 • 5 minutes, 1 second
What is the Swift Network?
What is the Swift Network?
Based in Brussels and founded in 1973, Swift is one of the most important networks of financial and banking messaging services. It takes the form of a cooperative of banks, covering over 200 countries and more than 11,000 financial establishments. It allows banks to communicate with one another across international borders in a secure, automated and rapid way.
Why is it making headlines at the moment? Is it really a viable option though? How has Russia reacted to the decision? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Who is Volodymyr Zelensky?
What is a 419 scam?
What is the Barnum effect?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
Who is Volodymyr Zelensky?
Who is Volodymyr Zelensky ?
This man only began a career in politics in 2019, when he became Ukrainian president after a campaign of just a few months. Fast forward less than three years and former actor Volodymr Zelensky is now commander in chief of a country under large-scale military invasion. Let’s discuss the remarkable rise to prominence of an unlikely presidential candidate.
Can you tell me about Zelensky’s upbringing? How on earth did he get into politics? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is a 419 scam?
What is the Barnum effect?
What is an endemic?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/3/2022 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What is a 419 scam?
What is a 419 scam?
You’ve almost certainly been targeted by 419 scams many times. They most commonly come in the form of an unknown sender requesting money by email. It’s also known as advance fee fraud, a kind of fraud which is as old as time, but has nevertheless seen a resurgence in the internet age.
It’s often a rich heir who just happens to be stricken with an incurable illness, promising to share their wealth with you as long as you help with the first transaction. Another typical scenario involves a great aunt who can’t afford to pay her cancer treatment and therefore needs your support.
Where does the 419 part come from? How do these scams work then? Does anyone actually believe them? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Barnum effect?
What is an endemic?
What is cholesterol?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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3/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
What is the Barnum effect?
What is the Barnum effect?
Have you ever felt like your horoscope was written just for you? Or a fortune’s cookie advice seemed incredibly relevant? You may be surprised, but it’s actually not such a coincidence after all. This psychological phenomenon is known as the Barnum effect. It’s a cognitive bias that occurs when people believe that generic personality descriptions and statements apply specifically to them. It may explain how practices such as astrology, fortune telling and personality tests have become relatively accepted despite lacking any basis in fact. Of course, people offering such services may not be aware of the Barnum effect label, but many understand how it works and seek to exploit it for their gain.
Where does the name come from? So the professor was slacking rather than the students on that occasion! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is an endemic?
What is cholesterol?
What is Uncharted?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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3/1/2022 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
What is an endemic?
What is an endemic?
Despite the Omicron wave, many European countries are beginning to loosen Covid-related restrictions. Some have lifted health passes and relaxed travel restrictions, while others have reopened public places and put an end to facemask requirements. In England, as of February 24th, people with Covid-19 are no longer legally required to self-isolate. Governments and international orgnisations are now aiming for a shared vision, that of the pandemic evolving into an endemic.
Do you mean that eventually, Covid-19 will become a disease like any other? Is it really wise to drop restrictions so quickly? So we will have gone through the three phases: an epidemic, a pandemic and finally an endemic! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is cholesterol?
What is Uncharted?
What is a Ponzi scheme?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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2/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
[RERUN] What is coolsculpting?
What is coolsculpting?
Linda Evangelista shares photos of what she calls disfiguring CoolSculpting effects. Just a couple of weeks ago, 90s catwalk star Linda Evangelista shared an emotional post on Instagram. The model revealed she had left the public eye for the last five years to hide the disastrous results of a coolsculpting procedure. She has decided to sue Zeltiq Aesthetics, the company who markets CoolSculpting, for $50M, arguing the botched treatment has had a huge impact on her earnings and emotional distress.
So is CoolSculpting a kind of cosmetic procedure then? So what went wrong on this occasion? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a bore-out?
Who is James Bond?
What is reproductive health?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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2/27/2022 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
What is libido?
What is libido?
First of all, let’s get it straight. Libido and sexual desire aren’t the same thing. Sexual desire is psychological, while libido is linked to hormone activity. Findigs from by the National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles were released in May 2021. Reports indicated that intimacy between British couples had halved during the first Covid lockdown period. It wasn’t just the Brits affected though. Similar trends were observed elsewhere, like in the USA, India and Italy for example, each time backed up by real data.
What can lead to a drop in libido then? What do each of those hormones do then? Are there other possible factors behind a drop in libido? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Uncharted?
What is a Ponzi scheme?
What is Kingdom Hearts?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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2/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
What is cholesterol?
What is cholesterol?
We’ve all more or less got a vague idea of what cholesterol is. The thick waxy substance has gained a reputation as a silent killer, due to its link with heart problems and being impossible to detect without a blood test. But it’s also essential for many bodily functions.
Cholesterol is a type of fat, so it can’t travel around the body on its own. It moves through our blood system attached to lipoproteins, which are either high-density or low-density. High-density lipoproteins, or HDL for short, is what’s known as ‘good cholesterol’. They absorb cholesterol and transport it from the arteries to the liver, where it is flushed from the body. Meanwhile, LDL is the so-called bad cholesterol.
Do we talk about LDL more often then? What else can lead to cholesterol problems? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Uncharted?
What is a Ponzi scheme?
What is Kingdom Hearts?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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2/25/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What is Uncharted?
What is Uncharted?
Adventure film Uncharted was finally released on February 16th, 2022, after more than a decade’s worth of delays. Aside from the newly released film and the video game it’s based on, the Uncharted franchise also includes a novel, a behind-the-scenes book, a comic book, a board game, two motion comics, and seven soundtrack albums or singles. Let’s look back on its rapid rise to prominence.
What caused all the delays then? What is the story told in the game? But how did the title gain recognition? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is a Ponzi scheme?
What is Kingdom Hearts?
Who is Agatha Christie?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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2/24/2022 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What is a Ponzi scheme?
What is a Ponzi scheme?
You may have seen the recently released Netflix documentary about the Tinder Swindler, Simon Leviev, or Shimon Hayut to give him his birth name. Between 2017 and 2019s, he conned a series of women out of their money, extorting nearly $10M in total. Leviev’s criminal activity is an example of what’s known as a Ponzi scheme. This form of fraud is named after Charles Ponzi, an Italian conman who operated in North America in the 1920s.
How do these scams work then? Can you tell me more about Charles Ponzi himself? How can I avoid falling victim to a Ponzi scheme then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is Kingdom Hearts?
Who is Agatha Christie?
What is female viagra?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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2/23/2022 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What is Kingdom Hearts?
What is Kingdom Hearts?
In today’s episode, we’re talking about a video game concept that might seem like the stuff of fan fiction, but nevertheless became a reality. Kingdom Hearts was first released on the PS2 twenty years ago and it’s a meeting of two universes that really have nothing to do with each other: Disney animations and Final Fantasy, Japan’s best known RPG franchise. The series has been making headlines of late too, with the release of the Integram Masterpiece for Cloud bundle on Nintendo Switch. OK, it’s not the catchiest of names, but it’s actually a collection of almost the entirety of the saga’s previous titles.
How did such an unlikely project come to be? What makes the saga so special? What is the future of Kingdom Hearts? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
Who is Agatha Christie?
What is female viagra?
What is demisexuality?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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2/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
Who is Agatha Christie?
Who is Agatha Christie?
Following on from the highly successful Murder on the Orient Express in 2017, Kenneth Branagh’s second Agatha Christie adaptation was released on February 9th 2022. This time it’s the turn of Death on the Nile to get the big-screen treatment. Let’s take the time to reflect on Agatha’s Christie legacy. The renowned mystery writer is by far the best-selling novelist of all time, and the most widely-translated. We’re talking an estimated 4 billion book sales in total.
What led to Christie getting involved in writing? Where did she get her novel ideas from? Her life really is worthy of a novel, isn’t it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is female viagra?
What is demisexuality?
What is sologamy?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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2/21/2022 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
[RERUN VALENTINE'S DAY] What is pansexuality?
To celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, Do You Really Know is ready to cover a whole host of subjects linked to love and desire! From trends like sologamy and sneating, to the emergence of female viagra, spend all week learning about the concepts that surround our love lives in the 21st century.
What is pansexuality?
More and more celebrities are talking about their sexuality. Just two weeks ago, Demi Lovato talked about being pansexual during an interview with Joe Rogan. According to Kim Rice, who wrote the Encyclopedia of Human Sexuality in 2015, pansexuality can be defined as sexual, emotional, romantic or spiritual attraction for other people, regardless of their biological sex, gender identity or sexual orientation.
This sexual orientation is still pretty unknown, but Demi Lovato is far from being the only public figure to have claimed it. Others include Cara Delevingne and Miley Cyrus.
Isn’t that the same thing as being bisexual? Is the term pansexual a little more inclusive? But why do some people feel this need to identify as something and find a name for it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Covax?
What is the Suez Canal?
What is a ghost kitchen?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/20/2022 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
What is sexual entitlement?
To celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, Do You Really Know is ready to cover a whole host of subjects linked to love and desire! From trends like sologamy and sneating, to the emergence of female viagra, spend all week learning about the concepts that surround our love lives in the 21st century.
What is sexual entitlement?
Back in 2018, an online study of 7,000 Swiss young adults was published, centring on their sexual interactions. It found that many young women accepted having sex not beause they really wanted to, but because they felt they had to please their partner. 53% of women surveyed said they had done so, compared to just 23% among men. The findings reflect how society has normalised male sexual entitlement. It’s the feeling that women’s sexuality is owed to men, in order to give them pleasure. That women should have sex even if they don’t want to. Regardless of how much money someone spent money on you, how nice they were to you or how much of a great time you had together, there are no situations in which you owe someone sex. But sadly, it’s the kind of feeling that can take over.
How do you explain that women feel that way? Does letting someone buy you a drink really equate to promising sex? What about consent? How do we get out of this pattern? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is female viagra?
What is demisexuality?
What is sologamy?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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2/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
[RERUN VALENTINE'S DAY] What is male contraception?
To celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, Do You Really Know is ready to cover a whole host of subjects linked to love and desire! From trends like sologamy and sneating, to the emergence of female viagra, spend all week learning about the concepts that surround our love lives in the 21st century.
What is male contraception?
We’ve all heard of the pill and the coil for women, but did you know that male contraceptives also exist? The obvious examples are condoms and the withdrawal method, but new solutions are being developed in the form of gels, shots and even thermal underwear. Many have tried and failed in the past, with no such products yet achieving commercial success. In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is gaslighting?
What is the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict?
What is Peyronie's disease?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
What is female viagra?
To celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, Do You Really Know is ready to cover a whole host of subjects linked to love and desire! From trends like sologamy and sneating, to the emergence of female viagra, spend all week learning about the concepts that surround our love lives in the 21st century.
What is female viagra?
It’s been over two decades now since viagra was first approved for use in 1998, the little blue pill from Pfizer becoming the first oral treatment for erectile dysfunction. Its use has steadily increased over the years, with the NHS reporting just under 3 million prescriptions in 2016, compared to 1 million in 2006. Its success has led pharmaceutical companies to look for a female equivalent. In 2015, the American Food & Drug Authority approved a pink pill called Flibanserin, marketed as Addyi, which became known as female viagra.
How does it work? Let’s cut to the chase then; does female viagra really work? What can be done to help women who want to boost their libido? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is demisexuality?
What is sologamy?
What is intersectionality?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/18/2022 • 5 minutes, 2 seconds
[RERUN VALENTINE'S DAY] What is asexuality?
To celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, Do You Really Know is ready to cover a whole host of subjects linked to love and desire! From trends like sologamy and sneating, to the emergence of female viagra, spend all week learning about the concepts that surround our love lives in the 21st century.
What is asexuality?
Being asexual means different things to different people. Generally speaking, asexuality refers to the persistent lack of interest in sexual activity. One of the main criteria is not feeling any sexual attraction towards other people. Asexuality can be considered a sexual orientation, or a lack of sexual orientation. Awareness and acceptance of asexuality is still relatively recent, but a developing body of research is growing, from both psychological and sociological perspectives.
So is being asexual the same as being abstinent? Do asexuals stay single for their entire lives? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is sportswashing?
What is Polexit?
What is Generation Alpha?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/18/2022 • 5 minutes, 36 seconds
What is demisexuality?
To celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, Do You Really Know is ready to cover a whole host of subjects linked to love and desire! From trends like sologamy and sneating, to the emergence of female viagra, spend all week learning about the concepts that surround our love lives in the 21st century.
What is demisexuality?
As regular listeners know, there are a wide range of human sexualities. For some people, wanting to have sex with someone results directly from physical chemistry, attraction and desire. But for others, a deep emotional bond or spiritual connection is required before any kind of sexual feelings can happen.
Demisexuality is seen as being on the asexuality spectrum, kind of halfway between asexuality and allosexuality, which means those who do feel sexual attraction towards others. Like with many emerging sexualities, there’s been a lot of skepticism and misunderstanding, but discussions around demisexuality have helped many people better accept themselves and put a name on their sexual orientation.
How did the term demisexuality start being used? But don’t most people need an emotional connection before things get physical? How can you tell if you are demisexual? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is sologamy?
What is intersectionality?
What is Galentine's Day?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/17/2022 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
[RERUN VALENTINE'S DAY] What is consent?
To celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, Do You Really Know is ready to cover a whole host of subjects linked to love and desire! From trends like sologamy and sneating, to the emergence of female viagra, spend all week learning about the concepts that surround our love lives in the 21st century.
What is consent?
Public discussion around the issue of consent has been greatly increased in recent years, thanks to the MeToo movement, and the resulting Harvey Weinstein trial. So when can we consider that a woman or a man has actually consented to having sex?
So when do we consider that a rape has been committed? Are there situations in which people are not able to consent? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is gaslighting?
What is the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict?
What is Peyronie's disease?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/17/2022 • 5 minutes, 8 seconds
What is sologamy?
To celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, Do You Really Know is ready to cover a whole host of subjects linked to love and desire! From trends like sologamy and sneating, to the emergence of female viagra, spend all week learning about the concepts that surround our love lives in the 21st century.
What is sologamy?
As it turns out, the traditional relationship may be out of fashion. More and more millennials are considering sologamy as a lifestyle choice. The idea of getting married to oneself might seem strange, but the trend has certainly grown in popularity in recent years, with women in particular choosing to put a ring on their own finger and commit to keeping themselves happy for life.
Where does the idea of self-marriage come from? Does sologamy really work? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is intersectionality?
What is Galentine's Day?
What is Pokémon?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
[RERUN VALENTINE'S DAY] What is the orgasm gap?
To celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, Do You Really Know is ready to cover a whole host of subjects linked to love and desire! From trends like sologamy and sneating, to the emergence of female viagra, spend all week learning about the concepts that surround our love lives in the 21st century.
What is the orgasm gap?
July 31st is National Orgasm Day in a number of Western countries, including the UK, US, Australia and Canada. Kudos to anyone who already had that holiday noted on their calendar! The annual event’s purpose is to celebrate sexual climax and raise awareness around related issues. Which leads us nicely onto today’s topic: the orgasm gap!
How do you explain the existence of the orgasm gap? What’s the secret then? And what can be done to make things better? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who is Quentin Tarantino?
What is a heat dome?
What is the Olympic flame?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/16/2022 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
[RERUN VALENTINE'S DAY] What is polyamory ?
To celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, Do You Really Know is ready to cover a whole host of subjects linked to love and desire! From trends like sologamy and sneating, to the emergence of female viagra, spend all week learning about the concepts that surround our love lives in the 21st century.
What is polyamory ?
Polyamory means having romantic or sexual relationships with more than one partner. It differs from the traditional model where two partners have an exclusive relationship and are faithful to one another. However, an important criteria is that all partners involved give their consent to these open relationships.
It’s like swinging? It’s like polygamy ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is sportswashing?
What is Polexit?
What is Generation Alpha?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/15/2022 • 3 minutes, 53 seconds
What is sneating?
To celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, Do You Really Know is ready to cover a whole host of subjects linked to love and desire! From trends like sologamy and sneating, to the emergence of female viagra, spend all week learning about the concepts that surround our love lives in the 21st century.
What is sneating?
Pretty much every romantic relationship starts out with a first date, whether it's online, on an outdoor walk, over drinks or at a restaurant. But it turns out when some people choose the latter option, they may have a hidden agenda. Sneating is a dubious new dating trend, whereby a person accepts a restaurant date with the sole intention of dining out on someone else’s dime. It's a contraction of the words "sneaky" and "eating", so the meaning is pretty obvious. You go on the date, eat for free and then never contact the person who footed the restaurant bill.
How did this become a thing? Why do that though? Sneating is still a little wrong though isn't it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is intersectionality?
What is Galentine's Day?
What is Pokémon?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
What is Valentine's Day?
To celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, Do You Really Know is ready to cover a whole host of subjects linked to love and desire! From trends like sologamy and sneating, to the emergence of female viagra, spend all week learning about the concepts that surround our love lives in the 21st century.
What is Valentine's Day?
This annual celebration of love and passion needs no introduction. Among those who partake in Valentine's Day, you’ve got those who go all out every year, never failing to honour the occasion and make sure everyone knows about it. Then there are others who prefer a quiet romantic night in with their partner.
At the other end of the scale, some people sulk instead, telling anyone who’ll listen just how pointless or old-fashioned the whole thing is. In modern times, Valentine’s Day is certainly a highly commercialised holiday, but believe it or not, its origins go back nearly 2000 years and are influenced by Pagan and Christian rituals.
So who is this Saint Valentine anyway? Wait a minute, he was executed and now he's celebrated? How did the Valentine's Day traditions evolve from then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is intersectionality?
What is Galentine's Day?
What is Pokémon?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/14/2022 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
[RERUN VALENTINE'S DAY] What is Tinder?
To celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, Do You Really Know is ready to cover a whole host of subjects linked to love and desire! From trends like sologamy and sneating, to the emergence of female viagra, spend all week learning about the concepts that surround our love lives in the 21st century.
What is Tinder?
Since launching in the US in 2012, there’s no doubting Tinder has certainly revolutionized dating and relationships. According to Business of Apps, it has over 75 million monthly active users, making it the most used dating app worldwide.
For those of you who aren’t familiar with Tinder, it’s just like any online dating platform in that you enter your personal details, orientation and a short bio, upload a few pics, and, this part is important, share your location.
After all, the particular appeal of Tinder is its geolocation system, which lets you connect with and meet people nearby. It quickly became synonymous with swiping: right to like or left to pass. Once you’ve matched with another user, you can exchange private messages.
Sounds simple enough! So what are the latest developments in the world of Tinder? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is sportswashing?
What is Polexit?
What is Generation Alpha?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
[RERUN] What is CBD?
What is CBD?
CBD is short for Cannabidiol, which is one of the chemical components found in cannabis. Not being psychoactive, CBD is legal in many countries. But it’s also claimed that CBD has several health benefits. That’s why demand has been growing around the world for a few years now.
Cannabis is illegal in most countries, mainly because it contains the psychoactive chemical Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC for short. But cannabis also contains CBD, which has an almost identical structure to THC, just without causing a high. Furthermore, the greater the quantity of CBD in cannabis, the lower the effect of THC on the brain. That’s because it doesn’t directly trigger the cannabinoid receptors found in our bodies.
If it doesn’t give you a high, I guess not a lot of people are interested in it… So what’s the fuss about CBD then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is intersectionality?
What is Galentine's Day?
What is Pokémon?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/13/2022 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
What is a tumour?
What is a tumour?
The word tumour comes directly from the Latin word for “swelling”. A tumour appears when a group of cells multiply and form a mass. Even though some tumours are malignant, or cancerous, most are actually benign, or non-cancerous. When normal cells multiply and remain localized, there’s nothing to worry about. These can be, for example, moles or warts.
Can benign tumours develop anywhere in the body? What about malignant ones? How do you diagnose a malignant tumour? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is intersectionality?
What is Galentine's Day?
What is Pokémon?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/12/2022 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
What is a blockbuster?
What is a blockbuster?
A lot of words have become so common in everyday language that we don’t even give any thought to where they came from and what they originally meant.
One such word is blockbuster; a term mostly associated with the kind of eagerly-awaited films we all go to see at the cinema. But it’s also used in other areas, such as sporting events, video games or even pharmaceutical products.
So where did the word come from and how did it end up being used to describe films? Which films were the first blockbusters then? What are the main ingredients of a blockbuster? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:
What is intersectionality?
What is Galentine's Day?
What is Pokémon?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/11/2022 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
What is intersectionality?
What is intersectionality?
Discrimination comes in many forms, but it’s important to remember and acknowledge that every marginalised person has their own unique experience of discrimination.
Furthermore, the oppression they face may relate to a single social category, like race, class, gender, physical ability or sexual orientation for example, or it may relate to several different categories. For example, experiences of racism are not the same for the rich and the poor, sexism is not the same for black and white women.
But what is the origin of the concept? How has intersectionality come back under the spotlight? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Galentine's Day?
What is Pokémon?
What is multiple sclerosis?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/10/2022 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What is Galentine's Day?
What is Galentine's Day?
With Valentine's Day less than a week away. But even though it's a highly commercialized tradition, many of you may find this holiday ridiculous, for a variety of reasons. For example, why should love only be celebrated within a couple? True friendships can be just as strong, so why shouldn’t we celebrate them in a similar way?
Well, the creators of Galentine’s Day certainly think women can and should do so! The spin-off is celebrated on February 13th and as you’ve probably guessed from the name, it's a Valentine Day's alternative for gal pals.
Who came up with the idea? And what exactly happens at a Galentine's Day party? So Galentine's Day has crossed the borders of pop culture! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Pokémon?
What is multiple sclerosis?
What is My Hero Academia?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
What is Pokémon?
What is Pokémon?
Having grossed more than $40 billion over the years, Pokémon is the second-biggest franchise in video game history, surpassed only by Mario. It has sold 370 million copies-and shows no sign of letting up. On January 28th, 2022, Pokémon Legends of Arceus was released on Nintendo Switch.
The latest instalment in the video game series aims to breathe new life into a licence which has been labelled conservative in some quarters, promising a return to the homeland of the mysterious Pokémon, at a time when trainers did not exist. Fans the world over can't wait to take a peek into the origins of the famous pocket monsters.
How did it all start? That name rings a bell, doesn’t it? So what are the Pokemon games actually like? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is multiple sclerosis?
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What is polycystic ovary syndrome?
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2/8/2022 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What is multiple sclerosis?
What is multiple sclerosis?
A study published in Science magazine on January 13th has led to hope that a treatment for multiple sclerosis may be developed. It showed a link between the presence of the Epstein Barr virus, which leads to glandular fever, and the onset of multiple sclerosis. Let’s take a minute to discuss this autoimmune disease.
First discovered by renowned French neurologist Professor Charcot in 1868, it is known for attacking the nervous system. When a person has multiple sclerosis, their immune system, which usually fights viruses and bacteria, loses control and instead attacks myelin, a sheath protecting the all-important nerve fibers which spread the brain’s nervous impulses around the body.
Can you tell me more about the recent study currently making headlines? What kind of treatment should we expect to see? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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2/7/2022 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Olympic flame?
What is the Olympic flame?
The 2022 Olympic Games in Beijing have begun, let’s look at one of the Games’ iconic symbols, the Olympic flame, and how it spreads the values of the Olympic movement. It brings a sense of identity to the Games, much like the Olympic rings and its Latin motto Citius Altius Fortius. Throughout the Games, the flame burns inside the Olympic stadium, symbolising the ideals of peace and friendship between people.
The flame is a reminder of the Games of ancient Greek times, when messengers travelled from city to city announcing competition dates, as well as calling for a sacred Olympic truce. This meant all conflicts ceased, allowing athletes and spectators to travel to Olympia. Of course in 2021, the coronavirus hasn’t agreed to any truce, so the Tokyo Games are being organised under strict measures.
Are you saying the history of the Olympics is linked to Ancient Greece? What happens once the flame is lit? What happens if the flame goes out? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
What is My Hero Academia?
What is My Hero Academia?
Late 2021 saw the cinematic release of My Hero Academia: World Heroes Mission, the third edition in the hugely popular My Hero Academia manga series. Kohei Horikoshi’s works are among the best selling mangas both in Japan and internationally.
So what’s the story about? So how did My Hero Academia manage to stand out so much? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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2/5/2022 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
What is polycystic ovary syndrome?
What is polycystic ovary syndrome?
Polycystic ovary syndrome, also called PCOS, is related to hormonal imbalances in women’s bodies. It’s the leading cause of fertility problems in women and affects one in ten women of childbearing age in the UK, according to the NHS. Despite that, there is very little awareness about the condition.
The most important thing there is to know about PCOS is that it leads to excessive production of androgen hormones, especially testosterone. High testosterone levels in women disrupt the ovarian cycle and, in particular, the development of fluid-filled sacs called follicles in the ovaries.
How does it affect the body, apart from causing cysts? Is the disease still understudied? Do we know why some women produce too many androgens? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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2/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
What is CryptoParty?
What is CryptoParty?
The internet has become a massive part of our daily lives. But the space is also heavily monitored by tech giants for commercial purposes and by the authorities for political purposes.
Email addresses, geolocations, online purchases, photos, friends’ contact details… our personal data is a real gold mine for Big Tech. It’s become a lucrative business that raises privacy concerns and tampers with our lifestyles and consumption patterns.
Can you tell me more? Let’s cut to the chase: how can we protect our data online? Does the movement have branches in other parts of the world? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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2/3/2022 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What is OCD?
What is OCD?
OCD stands for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Contrary to popular opinion, we’re not just talking about irritating little quirks. The condition profoundly affects the patient's mind, behaviour, and emotions.
So how does it develop? And how long can it last? Is it possible to stop the spiral? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is popcorn?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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2/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
What is the Russo-Ukrainian crisis?
What is the Russo-Ukrainian crisis?
This crisis may have been building away from the cameras in the last year or so, overshadowed by the Covid-19 pandemic, but it is now close to reaching boiling point. Since last year, Russia has been gradually moving arms and equipment near its border with Ukraine, as well as military units.
It’s now claimed that there are 100,000 troops on the border, preparing to march on Ukrainian capital Kiev. Russia obviously denies that intent but the situation has become so tense that international powers have felt the need to intervene.
How did the conflict get started? Why did Russia get involved? What is the current situation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are puff bars?
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What is Havana Syndrome?
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2/1/2022 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
What are puff bars?
What are puff bars?
This recent phenomenon has become massively popular with young people, and especially on TikTok. Puff bars, also known as vape pens or pod mods, are flavoured electronic cigarettes designed for one-time use.
Social networks have been flooded with puff bars of all different colours. From far away, their eye-catching design actually makes them look like sweets, which could be seen as a sneaky marketing move to target teenagers!
Do they taste like regular cigarettes? How did this trend start? Are they as bad for you as regular cigarettes? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is popcorn?
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What is the Door to Hell?
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1/31/2022 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
[RERUN] What is social distancing?
What is social distancing?
Boris Johnson is accused of attending parties during periods of confinement. The head of the British government rejected on Wednesday 26 January 2022 the idea of leaving office despite the controversy that has followed over the failure of him and his cabinet to comply with the health restrictions that he himself had enacted. Listen to the episode again to understand everything about "social distancing".
The term social distancing refers to measures taken to reduce physical contact between people to a minimum. The aim is to stop a contagious disease from spreading, in cases such as the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.
I can’t wait for lockdown to be over so we can get back to normal! Do we risk further coronavirus peaks by coming out of lockdown? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who is Molière?
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1/30/2022 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
What is frugal innovation?
What is frugal innovation?
For the last 200 years, the capitalist model has been based on maximising profits, with the motto being to use more and more resources to create more and more products. But now more than ever before, many of us have realised that the planet’s resources are limited and quickly running out, or already used up in some cases. Such observations should in theory gradually weaken capitalist ideals, but they continue to thrive. It’s like humanity is in a state of denial; our house is burning, but we’re looking elsewhere! The alternative is learning to do more with less, even if that may seem counterintuitive. That’s known as frugal innovation.
It all sounds pretty abstract! What are we talking about in concrete terms? How can companies move towards a more frugal model these days? Will the frugal innovation movement have a big impact on the economy in the future? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is popcorn?
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What is the Door to Hell?
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1/29/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What is popcorn?
What is popcorn?
It’s not the most widely celebrated date on the calendar, but National Popcorn Day falls on January 19th each year. Popcorn actually got some rare negative press recently, with France temporarily banning drinks and snacks from cinemas to protect against the spread of Covid-19. Let’s take a few minutes to honour this iconic snack, which has become for many an essential part of going to the cinema over the years.
When did popcorn make its debut in cinemas then? Are popcorn sales really profitable for cinemas? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Havana Syndrome?
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1/28/2022 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
Who is Gaspard Ulliel?
Who is Gaspard Ulliel?
On January 19th, French actor Gaspard Ulliel tragically died following a skiing accident in the Alps, aged just 37. Let’s make this episode a tribute to the angel-faced actor with a trademark scar who shone brightly in 28 films.
How did he get into acting? Which films made Ulliel so popular? How would you summarise his career? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/27/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What is Havana Syndrome?
What is Havana Syndrome?
For over five years now, a mysterious illness has been hitting US intelligence officers stationed in various overseas locations. Symptoms include migraines, tinnitus, vision problems and dizziness. As of mid-September 2021, over 200 cases had been recorded, which would seem far too many to be a coincidence. The US Department of State has referred to “unexplained health incidents” in its communications, and many suspect foul play.
So what’s causing this syndrome? Have there been any investigations into it? Who could be behind Havana Syndrome attacks then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Door to Hell?
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Who is Molière?
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1/26/2022 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
What is the Door to Hell?
What is the Door to Hell?
At 230 metres in diameter and 100 feet deep, it’s fair to describe the Darvaza Gas crater in Turkmenistan as colossal. This geological marvel is nicknamed the Door to Hell, and it's not the dimensions alone that make it unique. The crater has been spurting flames for half a century now, burning continuously ever since its formation in 1971.
It’s actually become the Central Asian country’s biggest tourist attraction by far, drawing in 10,000 visitors each year. But as you might expect, a burning gas crater does come with its fair share of safety hazards. Air around the edge of the crater is thick and hot, and it emits burning gusts of wind.
How natural is the Door to Hell then? Why’s that? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who is Boba Fett?
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1/25/2022 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
Who is Guillermo Del Toro?
Who is Guillermo Del Toro?
On January 21st, Nightmare Alley, the new psychological thriller from Guillermo del Toro, hit UK cinemas. Let’s pay tribute to a truly extraordinary director, novelist, producer, and screenwriter. Believe it or not, the Mexican hadn't released a single film since 2017 before Nightmare Alley. That was The Shape of Water, which won Best Picture and Best Director awards at the Oscars the following year. He took a hiatus after that, which was extended due to Covid-related delays, but the master is back in 2022.
What is so exceptional about Del Toro's work then? Is it true he could have worked on Harry Potter? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who is Boba Fett?
What is an anocracy?
What is the James Webb Telescope?
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1/24/2022 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Mozart Effect?
What is the Mozart Effect?
27 January is the anniversary of Mozart's birth. What if listening to 10 minutes of Mozart could increase your IQ? That’s exactly what Frances Raucher and her Californian research team suggested back in 1993. The theory spread like wildfire around the world, leading to much speculation about the so-called Mozart Effect.
Let’s cut to the chase, does it actually work? But this myth has now been perpetuated across several decades. There must be something to it! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is ableism?
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1/23/2022 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
Who is Molière?
Who is Molière?
A week ago on January 15th 2022, France celebrated the 400th anniversary of one of its most renowned writers. To this day, Molière remains as central to French culture as Shakespeare to the English-speaking world.
All year long, the Comedie Française theatre is set to stage all his classics and some lesser known works too. Let’s discuss why Molière is considered the nation's most illustrious and ever-popular master of the stage and satire.
I’m sure there’s a story of an extraordinary journey… But, apart from his showbiz side, why is he so important to the French? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who is Boba Fett?
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1/22/2022 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
Who is Boba Fett?
Who is Boba Fett?
The Book of Boba Fett, Disney Plus’ all-new live-action series, was released at the end of December 2021. It tells the story of the Galaxy’s most notorious bounty hunter. But how did an initially minor character wind up getting his own dedicated show? Well, Boba Fett is actually a cult figure of the Star Wars franchise.
Why is the character so popular? He certainly sounds like an enigmatic character! What has Boba Fett become since then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is an anocracy?
What is the James Webb Telescope?
What is ableism?
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1/21/2022 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
What is an anocracy?
What is an anocracy?
Let’s think back to January 6th 2021, when the U.S. Capitol was invaded by radical pro-Trump activists. Of course since then, Donald Trump has left the White House. But, with hindsight, how should we remember his mandate and this event in particular?
Political scientist Baraba F. Walter recently looked into the US's current instability and went as far as describing it as an anocracy. That’s a term for a government that is neither fully democratic, nor fully autocratic.
Where does the word anocracy come from? Why would she believe that? And how can an anocracy plunge into civil war? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the James Webb Telescope?
What is ableism?
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1/20/2022 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
What is the James Webb Telescope?
What is the James Webb Telescope?
In today’s episode, we’re gonna talk about the most powerful telescope ever sent into space. The James Webb telescope was designed by NASA, in collaboration with the European and Canadian Space Agencies. It was deployed on January 8th after taking off from Kourou, French Guiana, on Christmas Day. Its next step is to reach its final orbit, located 1.5 kilometres away from our planet, and better understand the Universe and its galaxies.
Where does the name come from? How far back does the project date? What will it be used for? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is ableism?
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1/19/2022 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What is ableism?
What is ableism?
Social science research is becoming more and more fruitful. As a result, an almost endless list of terms are emerging, like 'white privilege' or 'ageism’, which we have already covered in past episodes of Do You Really Know? These studies often share the same objective and that is to shine a light on social phenomena we tend to dismiss, calling out persisting discrimination.
The words 'ableism' and 'disablism' appeared in public debate to denounce systemic oppression against people with disabilities. Although ableism and disablism both describe discrimination based on disability, the emphasis for each of these terms is slightly different.
What are some examples of ableism? Isn’t there a danger of manipulation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are climate refugees?
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What is Scream?
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1/18/2022 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
What are climate refugees?
What are climate refugees?
The consequences of climate change are some of the primary drivers behind global human migration. According to a report by the European Commission on Migration, each year, an average of 30 million people are displaced due to environmental degradation.
Climate refugees, or climate migrants, are people forced away from their homes due to sudden or gradual alterations in their natural environment. We’re talking about sea-level rise, extreme weather events, drought and water scarcity for example. They are also referred to as displaced people.
Which NGOs are present in Somaliland? To what extent is climate migration a global phenomenon? What happens to climate refugees when they leave their homes? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the single currency?
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1/17/2022 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What is Cheugy?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What is Cheugy?
Some neologisms end up having an impressive online presence, spreading virally, but without many of us even being aware they exist. Cheugy is one such term!
It more or less means old-fashioned or passé, standing for anything which is no longer trendy. It’s a term which has highlighted an intergenerational culture war between the Millennials and Gen Z in 2021, the latter using it to mock their predecessors. The internet is of course a global village, but cheugy definitely has its roots in the USA.
How did the term first appear? So what kind of things actually are cheugy? What’s trendy is completely subjective, isn’t it?! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Xbox?
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What is Tangping?
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1/17/2022 • 5 minutes, 7 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What is woofing?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What is woofing?
The world is still in the middle of a health crisis. And while travel has resumed with the reopening of borders, more sustainable tourism practices have come to the fore in the past two years. One such example is wwoofing, which started growing in popularity prior to the Covid pandemic. And no, it’s got nothing to do with dogs despite the name! The name is derived from the acronym WWOOF, standing for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms.
So if I work in woofing, do I get paid? So where does woofing come from? How do I become a woofer in the UK? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are Yuccies?
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What is climate change famine?
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1/16/2022 • 5 minutes, 7 seconds
What is ageism?
What is ageism?
Whether it’s advertising, films, TV series or even literature, it seems like all female characters are young, with smooth radiant skin and not a wrinkle in sight! You’d think women over 40 simply don’t exist! Or at least, it’s rare to see them in leading roles.
In recent months, several actresses have gone on record saying they feel judged for having grown older. For example, Andie McDowell believes it can be difficult for older women to feel good about themselves in a society that constantly glorifies youth.
Why doesn't society like the elderly? Does ageism really affect men and women differently? But aren’t the elderly some of the most creditworthy consumers? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What is wokeism?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What is wokeism?
The term “woke” took off in the United States in the 2010s. The past form of the verb “to wake” is used to imply an awakening to injustices inflicted upon minorities by an oppressive system.
Woke activists call out systemic racism and police violence against groups like Black Lives Matter. Since then, it has become a go-to in public and media debates. Its critics say it has become a loaded term and those who use it often don’t understand the true meaning behind it.
Even though its popularity is relatively recent, the origins go back further. As far back as 1860, there was a Wide Awake anti-slavery movement supporting Abraham Lincoln, who was running as a candidate in the presidential election of that year. Around a hundred years later, similar allusions could be found in the speeches of Martin Luther King. At Oberlin University, Ohio in June 1965, he urged young Americans to stay awake and be an engaged generation.
What do “woke” people stand for these days? Do you mean, over time, the term has come to encompass all these different causes? Is there a way to put an end to injustice? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is sex work?
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What is eco-anxiety?
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1/15/2022 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
What is the single currency?
What is the single currency?
This month marks the 20th anniversary of the Euro, possibly the most significant achievement of the European Project. Indeed, it was back in January 2002 that euro coins and banknotes were introduced, and the biggest cash changeover in history took place across 12 EU countries.
But how could having a single currency really ensure peace? What have we learned over the last 20 years? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What is climate change famine?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What is climate change famine?
The COP26 summit, which took place earlier this month, revealed that concerns related to climate change are now more pressing than ever. In June 2021, Madagascar became the first country in the world officially affected by a climate change famine that swept over the south of the island as a result of global warming.
What makes it a particularly affected area is that 9 out of 10 people there live below the poverty line. According to the UN, 30,000 Malagasy are suffering from famine and 1.3 million are victims of acute malnutrition. The World Food Program reported that the figure includes 500,000 children, with over a fifth of those children affected by a severe form.
How did this climate change famine come about? What do Madagascar's inhabitants eat then? Is there a chance of similar famines breaking out in other countries? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is an unvaccinated lockdown?
What is the four-day week?
What are primitive reflexes?
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1/14/2022 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
What is Scream?
What is Scream?
With the fifth episode of Scream hitting cinemas this Friday, let’s discuss a saga that revolutionised the world of horror films. That’s right, it’s now been over 25 years since Wes Craven released the original Scream film back in 1996, reviving the slasher movie. The latest addition to the series, directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, is simply called Scream, although it’s unofficially been given the title of Scream 5.
Tell me more about slasher movies! What’s so particular about this slasher then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Harry Potter?
What is the EU Presidency?
What is Cobra Kai?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/13/2022 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What is reality shifting?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What is reality shifting?
This trend took off among teenagers on both sides of the Atlantic during the first round of lockdowns last year. It found its home on TikTok, all starting out with the #ShiftingRealities hashtag, which went from 170 million views to over a billion in just a few months. Shifting implies moving one’s own consciousness to another alternative reality. It could be very similar to the so-called real world, with small differences, or completely fictional. It could be the world you’ve read about in a book, seen on TV or simply invented from scratch.
What kind of scenarios are possible with reality shifting? So tell me, how does shifting reality work? And does it actually work?! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is woofing?
What are Yuccies?
Who is Peng Shuai?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/13/2022 • 5 minutes, 22 seconds
What is Harry Potter?
What is Harry Potter?
Harry Potter fans were delighted to see their heroes reunited in the recent Return to Hogwarts special. Cast members like Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint addressed rumours and anecdotes relating to the wizarding saga, all the while recalling behind-the-scenes memories. In that spirit, let’s discuss some of the lesser known facts around the Harry Potter franchise.
Spill the beans then, what are the juicy secrets? What about the Harry Potter plot then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the EU Presidency?
What is Cobra Kai?
What is Doughnut Economics?
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1/12/2022 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What are Yuccies?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What are Yuccies?
In today’s episode, let’s talk about a term which mixes sociology and lifestyle newspeak. Yuccies is an abbreviation for Young urban creatives.
The term started trending after American journalist David Infante introduced it in an article on Mashable in June 2015. Within weeks, the concept had been covered on many other websites, with the original article being shared over 75,000 times.
Hmm, that sounds a lot like hipsters? What sets yuccies apart? What kind of careers do yuccies tend to pursue? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is climate change famine?
What is an unvaccinated lockdown?
What is the four-day week?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/12/2022 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What is the EU Presidency?
What is the EU Presidency?
On New Year’s Day 2022, France took over presidency of the Council of the European Union for a period of six months. A shortened version of the title for this responsibility is EU Presidency.
Wait a minute, what is the Council of the European Union again? How come France is president for now then? What does France have on its agenda for its 2022 presidency? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Cobra Kai?
What is Doughnut Economics?
What is the interspecies internet?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/11/2022 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What is the Big Quit?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What is the Big Quit?
Remember our episode on #QuitMyJob, about thousands of Americans publicly quitting their jobs on TikTok? Since then, the phenomenon has continued gaining momentum in the United States under a new name: the Great Resignation, or the Big Quit.
According to a report published by the US Department of Labour on October 13, 2021, this August alone saw 4.3 million resignations nationwide. Count in the rest of summer and spring, and the figure jumps to a staggering 20 million. In the spirit of similar past initiatives, The Big Quit is yet another movement that offers resistance to unfair employers and unsafe working conditions.
What got this trend started then? Has the movement spread to other countries? Does the movement prompt companies to become more attractive by raising wages, for example? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Squid Game?
What is wokeism?
What is sex work?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/11/2022 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What is Cobra Kai?
What is Cobra Kai?
If you’ve got Netflix, you’ve no doubt seen this series pop up in your recommendations more than once. All the more so given the fourth season just hit the platform on New Year’s Eve, adding to the 30 episodes which were already available.
It sounds like a cool name! So what’s it about? What’s the series about then? And what audience is it aimed at? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the interspecies internet?
What is serendipity?
What is the philosopher’s stone?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/10/2022 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What is the metaverse?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What is the metaverse?
We had already had hints over the summer, but it’s now been confirmed by a recent statement from Facebook HQ. The Silicon Valley tech giant has big plans to hire 10,000 new highly-skilled staff in Europe over the next five years, as part of plans to develop the metaverse.
It’s even planning to change its name, with a rebranding announcement expected any day now.
Wait a minute; are you saying it won’t be called Facebook anymore? A digital parallel universe, huh! What does that even mean? When did this metaverse idea first appear? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Netflix?
What is Tinder?
What is sportswashing?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/10/2022 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What is Polexit?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What is Polexit?
With Brexit finally having become a reality earlier this year, could other countries follow suit and leave the EU? Well the prospect of a similar Polexit isn’t outside the realms of possibility according to some observers.
To understand why the term is on everyone’s lips, you need to look back at what happened in Poland on October 7th. The country’s constitutional court found that certain articles of EU treaties were incompatible with the national constitution. It ruled that Polish law should supersede EU law.
The country openly challenging the primacy of European law, which dates back to the 1960s, is truly a historic and unprecedented decision.
What was the EU’s response? How did relations get to be so strained between the EU and Poland? Is Polexit really possible? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Generation Alpha?
Who is Harlan Coben?
What is plogging?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/9/2022 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What is Doughnut Economics?
What is Doughnut Economics?
The health crisis has revealed two of the most critical items on the modern agenda: social justice and ecological transition. The first refers to the well-being of all people, while the second implies care for the environment. But these pressing issues don’t always fit in with the existing economic theories that focus exclusively on growth.
What does a doughnut have to do with that? And what are the principles of her theory? What does that mean? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the interspecies internet?
What is serendipity?
What is the philosopher’s stone?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/8/2022 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What is eco-anxiety?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What is eco-anxiety?
The UN’s COP26 summit is due to start this Sunday, and it’s pretty clear to most of us that climate change is the most serious threat to our health. Of course it’s a physical threat, especially to the vulnerable, due to extreme weather events like heatwaves, storms and fires, which are increasingly frequent and intense. But we mustn’t neglect the mental impact, as fear of the future is eating away at the minds of many. Indeed, climate-related disasters and environmental catastrophes are causing a lot of confusion and worry about the future of the planet.
The label eco-anxiety has emerged as the latest addition to a growing vocabulary around climate change, alongside terms like climate depression and solastalgia. A 2017 definition from the American Psychiatric Association calls eco-anxiety a “chronic sense of environmental doom”. It’s not strictly speaking a medical diagnosis, but it can interfere with people’s daily lives and personal ambitions.
Is it really that widespread? What’s the best way to manage feelings of eco-anxiety? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the metaverse?
What is Netflix?
What is Tinder?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/8/2022 • 5 minutes, 7 seconds
What is the interspecies internet?
What is the interspecies internet?
Those piano notes might sound like they’re the result of human mastery, but they are in fact being played by a bonobo called Panbanisha. She was taking part in a jamming session and responding to a series of synthesizer chords played by former Genesis lead singer Peter Gabriel.
If that’s piqued your curiosity, go and check out the full video on the musician’s Youtube channel. It was recorded in the early 2000s while Gabriel was visiting a primate centre in Atlanta. That was the seed that would set the interspecies internet project in motion.
What are we actually talking about here? It all sounds a bit utopian and far-fetched! How would it work technically speaking though? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is serendipity?
What is the philosopher’s stone?
What is Veganuary?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/7/2022 • 5 minutes, 3 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What is a bore-out?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What is a bore-out?
Hearing the term will likely make you think of another kind of psycho-social condition related to the world of work; that of a burnout. Well bore-outs are perhaps less well-known than their workaholic cousin, but they are actually much more common.
A Forbes article from January 2020 suggested that between 43% and 53% of employees are bored of their job.
What are the signs of a bore-out? What are the primary causes? What can be done to avoid a bore-out? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who is James Bond?
What is reproductive health?
What is Lagom?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/7/2022 • 5 minutes, 1 second
What is serendipity?
What is serendipity?
Today’s subject is a word as old as time, yet it has only really come to the forefront in the last decade. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, serendipity is luck that takes the form of finding valuable or pleasant things that are not looked for. In other words, it is an accidental discovery. Or a happy coincidence.
Do you have any examples? So you’re saying it’s not new at all then! Where does the word come from? Hyper-what browsing? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the philosopher’s stone?
What is Veganuary?
What is The Matrix?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What is euthanasia?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What is euthanasia?
Euthanasia is the act of intentionally ending a person’s life in order to relieve their suffering. The practice is often confused with assisted suicide but there is a key difference. When it comes to euthanasia, medical practictioners carry out the final deed, whereas with assisted suicide it’s the patient who commits the act.
Laws on euthanasia and assisted suicide vary across the world, and it’s a complex ethical subject. The general trend in the Western world is that people are becoming more open to the idea of legal euthanasia. It’s being debated in a number of places.
In the countries where euthanasia is legal, how is it carried out? So where is euthanasia actually allowed then? What are some of the main arguments for and against euthanasia? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the baby bust?
What is period poverty?
What is newspeak?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/6/2022 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What is the philosopher’s stone?
What is the philosopher’s stone?
The Harry Potter “Return To Hogwarts” cast reunion was first broadcast on New Year’s Day at 8pm. It’s available to view on Sky and Now in the UK. The documentary marks 20 years since the first novel in the series, The Philosopher’s Stone, was adapted into a film by Warner Brothers. But the philosopher’s stone itself is actually a real-world myth which fascinated alchemists for a long time before J.K. Rowling’s novels came along. Its alchemical symbol was known as the Squared circle.
Could you say popular culture brought it back to life then? Why does the name ring a bell? Is the philosopher’s stone really red? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Veganuary?
What is The Matrix?
What is Christougenniatikophobia?
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1/5/2022 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What is space tourism?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What is space tourism?
Just over a week ago, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos stepped down from his position as the company’s CEO to focus on other projects. He’ll remain executive chairman at Amazon but now wants to dedicate more time to other projects, including his space tourism company Blue Origin.
Following that surprise announcement, British business magnate Richard Branson also declared his desire to go into space with his company Virgin Galactic. Some have labelled these developments as a new dawn for space tourism.
So who’s earning bragging rights in the billionaires’ space race?How long has space tourism been around? Wait, are you saying one day I’ll be able to jump on a rocket into space? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Ocean Viking?
What is the orgasm gap?
Who is Quentin Tarantino?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/5/2022 • 5 minutes, 16 seconds
What is Veganuary?
What is Veganuary?
Here we are just a few days into 2022! Have you made, or perhaps already broken, any New Year’s resolutions? Well, it’s not too late to get involved. There are plenty of good initiatives out there and here’s one which is designed to help you stick to a resolution for a full month, or at least try something new.
The Veganuary challenge is pretty easy to understand. It’s a contraction of the words “vegan” and “January”, the idea being to go vegan for a month, cutting out all animal origin food from your diet. According to organisers, over 580,000 people from 209 countries across the world registered to take part last year, and that figure is expected to increase again in 2022.
How long has the Veganuary movement been around? How can I join in? But it’s so hard to find vegan food options! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is The Matrix?
What is Christougenniatikophobia?
What is hogging?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/4/2022 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What is the Covid vaccine pill?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What is the Covid vaccine pill?
Summer 2021 has seen Covid-19 vaccine campaigns making steady progress around the world. As of the start of August, 15% of the global population had been fully vaccinated.
While health authorities in some countries are considering a third dose by injection, Oravax Medical, a subsidiary of Israeli pharmaceutical company Oramed, is hoping to produce a Covid-19 vaccine in pill form.
A pill?! So you’d just swallow it like paracetamol then? How would the vaccine actually work? Is it really that revolutionary of a vaccine method? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is geophony?
What is Earth Overshoot Day?
What is Godwin’s Law?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/4/2022 • 5 minutes, 1 second
What is The Matrix?
What is The Matrix?
Matrix Resurrections, the fourth feature film of the Matrix saga, was released on December 22nd, 18 years after the previous film. What better time to reflect on how the franchise left its mark on an entire generation.
Can you sum up the story of the Matrix? Sounds like a pretty complicated story to get your head around! Tell me more about the lead character Neo! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is hogging?
What is anasyrma?
What is a family rave?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/3/2022 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
[TRENDING TOPICS FOR 2022] What are NFTs?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From January 3th to 17th, discover the 15 words that will mark 2022. From the new phenomenon of "space tourism" to the virtual world of "Metaverse" and, of course, the expression "wokeism", (re)discover these words that will be in the news in 2022.
What are NFTs?
NFTs are the talk of the town in early November 2021. Quentin Tarantino is auctioning off NFTs of unedited scenes from "Pulp Fiction". It’s one of the latest crazes in the world of blockchain. Non-fungible tokens are digital certificates of ownership, which state who owns a piece of virtual crypto-art. That’s right, you can now buy collectible digital art, like memes, GIFs, videos and even tweets, all thanks to NFTs. NFTs emerged in 2017, as part of the Ethereum cryptocurrency blockchain. You’ve most likely heard of bitcoin and blockchain before. Well, NFTs are based on the same technology.
So are NFTs cryptocurrency then? What are the advantages of using the blockchain? Why would anyone spend millions on something that can be copied endlessly and can’t even be hung up on their wall? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Big Quit?
What is Jackass?
What is Squid Game?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/3/2022 • 5 minutes, 27 seconds
[RERUN] What are New Year’s Resolutions?
What are New Year’s Resolutions?
Well here we are in 2022. Many are glad to see the back of 2021, now looking forward optimistically to the future thanks to global developments like the arrival of Covid-19 vaccines and Joe Biden entering the White House. The turn of the year also means it’s time to come up with New Year’s resolutions. Setting ourselves objectives for the whole year is always a big ask, and not everyone is able to keep theirs for various reasons.
When were New Year’s resolutions actually invented? What are the most popular New Year’s resolutions? And does anyone actually keep their resolutions? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is breaking?
What is the cosmic calendar?
What is an immunity passport?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/2/2022 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
What is Christougenniatikophobia?
What is Christougenniatikophobia?
For a lot of people, Christmas is synonymous with family gatherings, presents and lots of yummy food. Combined with New Year’s Eve, late December is a season of celebration.
But for others, the period is a bit of a nightmare. End of year holidays can be a source of genuine trauma and the fear of Christmas itself as known as christougenniatikophobia. It’s a branch of heortophobia, which is a fear of celebrating events. It comes from the Greek “herote”, meaning holiday. Like other phobias, it can lead to irritability, stress, eating disorders or sleep problems.
Who tends to be affected? What should I do if Christmas makes me anxious? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is hogging?
What is anasyrma?
What is a family rave?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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1/1/2022 • 3 minutes, 52 seconds
What is hogging?
What is hogging?
As 2021 draws to close, let’s discuss a word which has become more and more widespread in the United States at the end of the year. This contemptible practice was called out by young woman Megan Mapes on TikTok in October 2021. She had herself been a victim of hogging in an American college.
Are these students fat fetishists then? And why are we hearing about hogging now? Have there been other instances of hogging? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is anasyrma?
What is a family rave?
What is EU law primacy?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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12/31/2021 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What is anasyrma?
What is anasyrma?
Anasyrma literally means “exposing of the genitals.” But rather than a display of arousal, it’s a form of exhibitionism which is found in religion or artwork. In ancient times, people believed it could turn away harm or evil spirits.
Today, similar practices are used as political statements and even works of art. For example, in the midst of a Black Lives Matter protest in July 2020, a nude woman sat down at the floor and spread her legs in front of a police cordon. The woman, who would go on to be christened Naked Athena, then began performing yoga poses in the direction of disbelieving police officers.
How did anasyrma become a political statement in the modern-day then? But what's the point of it all? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a family rave?
What is EU law primacy?
What is the gig economy?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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12/30/2021 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
What is a family rave?
What is a family rave?
New Year’s Eve often throws up dilemmas, especially for those with young children. To go out or not? Who’s going to look after the kids?
Luckily, being a parent doesn’t necessarily mean saying goodbye to your social life and occasional fun! Not if you see it as an opportunity to share your passion for music and clubbing with your children!
But what is the concept, really? The dilemma’s still there, though: it’s either drink the night away or keep an eye on your kids… What about across the Atlantic? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is EU law primacy?
What is the gig economy?
Who is Spiderman?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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12/29/2021 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
What is EU law primacy?
What is EU law primacy?
There has been a lot of tension between Hungary and the EU in 2021, and it doesn’t seem to be calming down as the year comes to an end.
The latest debate is closely linked to the principle of EU law primacy. All EU member states are subject to it. It stipulates that EU law is considered superior to domestic law within a member country. So in the case of a conflict, EU law should prevail and the country wouldn’t be able to apply any law which goes against European directives.
Are we saying that Hungary doesn’t accept European law taking priority over its own laws then? Do all EU countries accept the principle? And what can the Union do to enforce it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Wikileaks?
Who is Spiderman?
What is the Santa shortage?
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12/28/2021 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What is the gig economy?
What is the gig economy?
You’ve no doubt caught a lift from a ride-sharing service before, had a meal delivered by a guy on a bike or rented out someone else’s apartment for a weekend away. Well such services are all part of a system known as the gig economy or collaborative economy.
Just like performers who are paid on a per gig basis, workers are increasingly being paid task by task. It’s a direct consequence of the rise of the digital world, in particular that of smartphone apps. You could call it the Uberisation of the world of work.
Let me guess; that comes from Uber drivers, does it? Why would companies want to do that? Could that change any time soon? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Wikileaks?
Who is Spiderman?
What is the Santa shortage?
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12/27/2021 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
[RERUN] What are the Christmas Blues?
What are the Christmas Blues?
Ho, ho, ho, Christmas time is here! For many people, the holiday season brings to mind decorations, gifts, and happy moments spent in good company.
But that’s not the case for everybody, and we would all do well to remember that. Some people find Christmas a difficult moment to live through, which causes sadness known as the Christmas blues.
Who are these people who don’t love Christmas then? So how can we help those feeling the Christmas blues, and avoid suffering from it ourselves? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is low tech?
What is gender dysphoria?
What is The Cartel Project?
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12/26/2021 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
What is a Christmas tree?
What is a Christmas tree?
“O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum, How faithfully you blossom!” is the English translation of lyrics to a traditional folk song written by German composer Ernst Anschütz in 1824. A Tannenbaum is actually a fir tree, and Anschutz likely had no idea his song would be associated with Christmas trees and go on to become one of the most popular carols out there.
Fast forward to 2021, Christmas trees and their lovely branches are becoming more controversial. An unconventional tree in New Jersey’s Asbury Park has been the talk of the town of the last few weeks. Normally, the historic boardwalk is decorated with a fresh-cut natural Christmas tree. But this year, in its place is a piece of art made of cardboard that also incorporates elements of the seashore, urban architecture and the city’s musical heritage. It’s also designed to be recycled after it is dismantled. The Christmas tree sculpture has received both praise and criticism.
But how did putting up a Christmas tree become a tradition? But what happens to all these trees after the holidays? Can you imagine Christmas without a tree? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Wikileaks?
Who is Spiderman?
What is the Santa shortage?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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12/25/2021 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
What is Wikileaks?
What is Wikileaks?
On December 10th, a UK court ruled that Wikileaks founder Julian Assange could be extradited to the United States. The Australian is currently being held on remand in Belmarsh Prison for breaching the terms of his bail, but he also faces long-standing espionnage charges from the US.
Those relate to the publication of secret documents on US army activity in Afghanistan, over a decade ago. That would lead to the former hacker being labelled as the US’ public enemy number one by some observers.
When was Wikileaks actually created? How did the video come to light? Did Wikileaks continue to publish during that time? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who is Spiderman?
What is the Santa shortage?
What is Ugly Sweater Day?
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12/24/2021 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
Who is Spiderman?
Who is Spiderman?
The eagerly-awaited Spider Man: No Way Home hit cinemas last week, becoming the second-biggest box office opening ever. The film brought in $260m on its first weekend alone, according to CNN. Let’s take the opportunity to look back at the story of Peter Parker in the cinema world. The latest instalment continues Hollywood’s third Spiderman series since the turn of the century.
What do you mean three adaptations? Is SpiderMan really that big of a deal? How long did it take for Spiderman to end up on cinema screens? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Santa shortage?
What is Ugly Sweater Day?
What is apostasy?
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12/23/2021 • 5 minutes, 12 seconds
What is the Santa shortage?
What is the Santa shortage?
The latest wave of Covid-19 is impacting 2021 Christmas celebrations in a big way. And that includes one of its most important traditions: that of Santa Claus. Santa is synonymous with the joy of Christmas, and we’re used to seeing him more or less everywhere around this time of year, from Christmas markets to supermarkets to TV adverts. But this time around, the labour shortage has stretched as far as the North Pole. That’s right, North America is faced with a Santa shortage!
What exactly does it have to do with Covid then? Is there a shortage in demand due to the pandemic? Are there any alternatives to get around the Santa shortage? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Ugly Sweater Day?
What is apostasy?
What is Cheugy?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
In partnership with upday UK.
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12/22/2021 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
What is Ugly Sweater Day?
What is Ugly Sweater Day?
It could be a Christmas tree, a skier in a bobble hat, a team of reindeer, a snowman or Mr Santa Claus himself. OK no need to guess, we’re talking about motifs that you could find on an Ugly Christmas sweater. It’s truly become a popular gift option and wardrobe staple of the holiday season in recent years.
The concept originated with commercial impetus in the 1950s in the United States, before gaining further exposure in TV series. It thus entered pop culture as a way to celebrate self-conscious kitsch. From then on, the ugly sweater became a fashion phenomenon and evolved into a global industry. Brands, department stores and distribution chains, couldn’t help but fall for it, turning the knitted ugliness into a serious and highly lucrative business!
But how did the Christmas sweater get so popular? There’s a dedicated hashtag isn’t there? But how did we go from Christmas sweater to ugly Christmas sweater? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is apostasy?
What is Cheugy?
What is the Xbox?
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12/21/2021 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What is a QR code?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What is a QR code? Thanks for asking!
QR codes have likely never been used more than in the Covid age. They’ve become ubiquitous especially since the NHS started using them for its test and Trace app. These odd black-and-white grids may all look alike, but in fact every QR code is unique.
QR codes, or quick response codes to give them their full name, were first invented by Japanese engineer Masahiro Hara, working at Denso Wave, a subsidiary of Toyota. They were used in factories to track vehicles while they were being assembled, and to scan components.
Of course QR codes really took off in the 21st century, and in particular with the rise of the smartphone.
What are QR codes used for? So how do QR codes actually work? Can we create a QR code? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are the Paralympics?
What is sapiosexuality?
What is the Taliban offensive?
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12/20/2021 • 5 minutes, 18 seconds
What is apostasy?
What is apostasy?
Christians around the world are preparing to celebrate Christmas, with many non-believers also joining in on the festivities. But what happens when someone decides to give up or denounce their religion?
Well that’s known as apostasy and it comes from the ancient Greek word apostasia, meaning a defection or revolt. Of course it touches on the idea of freedom of thought.
But the term is most often used in a religious context, isn’t it? Is apostasy punishable by law? Isn’t freedom of religion a matter of individual choice? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Xbox?
What is the FIRE movement?
What is Tangping?
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12/20/2021 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What is Stop Asian Hate?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What is Stop Asian Hate? Thanks for asking!
On March 16th, a series of shootings in Atlanta caused eight deaths. The murders took place at three different spas, and six of the deceased victims were Asian women.
The 21-year-old perpetrator claims to have been motivated by shame at his own sexual addiction, rather than specifically targeting the Asian community. But some believe the killings should be classed as hate crimes. The Stop Asian Hate hashtag has been trending on social media ever since.
On the day of the shootings, social media analytics platform Visitbrain recorded 4 million tweets using the hashtag. It was notably shared by the Black Lives Matter movement, who released an anti-white supremacy statement.
Is Stop Asian Hate a recent development? Do we have any statistics on the crimes being carried out? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who is Ousmane Sonko?
What is Generation Covid?
What are HFCs?
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12/19/2021 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What is the #QuitMyJob trend?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What is the #QuitMyJob trend? Thanks for asking!
This hashtag went viral on TikTok during the summer. On social media, thousands of web users used the hashtag QuitMyJob to hand in their resignation directly on the Internet. For starters, to give their notice in style. But more importantly, to call their employers out for unacceptable behaviour. American Shana Blackwell, is seen as having started the QuitMyJob trend. In autumn 2020, she made the following announcement over her Walmart store’s PA system.
Hold on, why would anyone want to do that? Can employees get in trouble for making allegations against their employers online? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a Tiny House?
What is tokenism?
What is squirting?
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12/18/2021 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
What is Cheugy?
What is Cheugy?
Some neologisms end up having an impressive online presence, spreading virally, but without many of us even being aware they exist. Cheugy is one such term!
It more or less means old-fashioned or passé, standing for anything which is no longer trendy. It’s a term which has highlighted an intergenerational culture war between the Millennials and Gen Z in 2021, the latter using it to mock their predecessors. The internet is of course a global village, but cheugy definitely has its roots in the USA.
How did the term first appear? So what kind of things actually are cheugy? What’s trendy is completely subjective, isn’t it?! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Xbox?
What is the FIRE movement?
What is Tangping?
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12/18/2021 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What is Pop-It?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What is Pop-It? Thanks for asking!
If 2017 was the year of the hand spinner in the toy world, 2021 is the year of the Pop-It! Even if the name doesn’t immediately ring a bell, the chances are you’ve seen one of these fidget toys in a picture or video on social media without realising. Manufacturers have had to ramp up production due to the recent surge in popularity.
The Pop-It is basically a silicone-based tray containing colourful half-sphere bubbles. You’d be forgiven for saying it looks pretty unremarkable at first. You can push the bubbles through one by one, which creates a satisfying popping sound. Once you’ve finished popping one side, you can simply flip it over and pop back the other way!
It sounds like a reusable version of bubble wrap! What’s the appeal of Pop-It then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are sonic weapons?
What is the I.O.C.?
What is the global bike shortage?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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12/17/2021 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
What is the Xbox?
What is the Xbox?
The end of 2021 marks 20 years since the launch of major video game console the Xbox. Back at the E3 trade event in 2001, Bill Gates unveiled Microsoft’s latest project: a big black box with a fluorescent X on top. It represented the company’s first foray into the gaming console market.
The “X” part of the name refers to Microsoft’s DirectX technology on which the console runs. It enables the software and hardware to work together, which basically means it helps apps to function.
How did the Xbox first come to prominence? What was that? How did Microsoft react to that setback? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the FIRE movement?
What is Tangping?
What is West Side Story?
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12/17/2021 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What is Signal?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What is Signal? Thanks for asking!
Maybe you’re among the millions of new users to have recently downloaded messaging app Signal. Just like Whatsapp or Messenger, Signal is a free-to-use messaging app which can be used on smartphone or desktop computers. Unlike its competitors though, Signal is independent and prides itself on being the most secure messaging app around.
The first version of the Signal app launched in 2015, created by American entrepreneur Moxie Marlinspike. But it was only at the start of 2021 that Signal really took off. And ironically, its new found success is largely down to competitor Whatsapp.
For years now many of us have been using Whatsapp to call friends across the globe, without racking up a massive phone bill. Its group functions allow friends, family and colleagues to share media.
So what does Signal have that Whatsapp doesn’t? In what way is it independent? Who does Signal belong to? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is compersion?
What is Inauguration Day?
What is Blue Monday?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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12/16/2021 • 5 minutes, 29 seconds
What is the FIRE movement?
What is the FIRE movement?
Imagine you could quit work by the age of 40 and enjoy the freedoms afforded by retirement while still pretty young. Well that’s exactly what the FIRE movement, standing for Financial Independence, Retire Early, is all about.
The way of life is particularly popular among millennials, and although its origins date back to a book from the 1990s, it really gained in popularity around 2010, just when those guys were reaching their twenties.
Sounds cool! Is it some kind of secret life hack cult? I’m gonna tell my boss to get bent and head for the beach! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Tangping?
What is West Side Story?
What is hybristophilia?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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12/16/2021 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What is the IPCC report?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What is the IPCC report? Thanks for asking!
There may still be a minority of doubters out there, but it’s becoming increasingly difficult to deny the existence of climate change and its disastrous consequences.
The summer months of July and August have once again seen extreme and unprecedented weather events, like the North American heat dome we discussed in a recent episode, the fires witnessed in Greece caused partly by a lack of rainfall, or the deadly floods which hit Belgium and Germany, countries usually known for having a mild climate.
Released on August 9th, the latest Assessment Report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change comes as a stark reminder that planet Earth is heating up. It’s known as AR6 for short, reflecting the fact that it’s the sixth such report, with the first dating back to 1990.
Who actually makes up the IPCC? What can we read in the latest edition? Is there any hope? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is rape culture?
What is Maslow's hierarchy of needs?
What is the Covid vaccine pill?
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12/15/2021 • 5 minutes, 42 seconds
What is Tangping?
What is Tangping?
China is known for its hyper competitive work culture, with young people accustomed to doing long hours and having an always-on mentality. But earlier this year, Tang ping came along as a counter culture, an antidote if you like. Literally the word simply means to lie down flat. But it has taken on political significance in 2021.
What kind of pressures are we talking about? Are we saying this movement only applies to young people then? How have the authorities reacted? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is West Side Story?
What is hybristophilia?
What is Hanukkah?
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12/15/2021 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What is Operation London Bridge?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What is Operation London Bridge? Thanks for asking!
The recent passing of Prince Philip at the age of 99 has served as a reminder that even Her Majesty the Queen won’t be around forever. Queen Elizabeth II has reigned over the United Kingdom and Commonwealth since February 6th 1952, longer than any other British monarch.
Believe it or not, extensive protocol is already in place for the day when the Queen passes away. Plans known as Operation London Bridge were first made in the 1960s and are updated regularly.
Wow - That’s going to be the end of an era! Who will be the first to hear the news? How quickly will the rest of us find out? What are the practical arrangements for Operation London Bridge? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a lateral flow test?
What is vegetarianism?
What are LGBT-free zones?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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12/14/2021 • 5 minutes, 49 seconds
What is West Side Story?
What is West Side Story?
Steven Spielberg’s remake of “West Side Story” hit UK cinemas just last Friday. That makes it a perfect occasion to dedicate an episode to one of the most iconic musicals in history.
What is the story about? So what makes this story so special? So how did the cinematic adaptation come on? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is hybristophilia?
What is Hanukkah?
What is a testicle bath?
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12/14/2021 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What is rape culture?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What is rape culture? Thanks for asking!
Society generally sees rape as one of the most heinous crimes that exists. But the sociological theory of rape culture suggests that sexual assault continues to be so common precisely because of certain attitudes on gender and sexuality.
Certain myths and misconceptions are handed down from generation to generation, ending up embedded in cultural norms. The consequences: victim shaming, impunity for perpetrators and encouraging women to sacrifice freedoms to avoid being raped, are drastic.
Are you talking about the idea of the patriarchy? How has the situation evolved in recent years? How can we combat rape culture? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Covid vaccine pill?
What is the black fungus epidemic?
What is geophony?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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12/13/2021 • 5 minutes, 1 second
What is hybristophilia?
What is hybristophilia?
We tend to file serial killers among the worst examples of humanity, so it’s hard to imagine anyone would be specifically attracted to them. Well believe it or not the term hybristophilia refers to just that. You could say it’s a bad-boy fixation taken to the extreme. The term comes from the ancient Greek hybrizein, which means committing an atrocity against somebody, and phile, meaning to have a strong attraction. Hybristophilia is sometimes referred to as “Bonnie and Clyde Syndrome”.
Hybristophilia can’t be that common, can it? So how do you explain that some women are so fascinated by, and attracted to, these men? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a testicle bath?
What is Yentl Syndrome?
What is Ghostbusters?
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12/13/2021 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What is Generation Covid?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What is Generation Covid? Thanks for asking!
In social sciences, a generation refers to a group of the population whose members are around the same age and have hence lived through the same era. Think the baby boomers, Generation X, Millennials… and now Generation Covid!
While they may be significantly less at risk of serious illness from Covid-19, young people are bearing the brunt of the pandemic’s economic consequences. Their development into adulthood is increasingly being affected, and it’s taking a mental toll.
So who exactly do we count as part of Generation Covid? What about students and young adults? How have they been affected? Is there any cause for optimism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are HFCs?
What is eye yoga?
What is a test concert?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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12/12/2021 • 5 minutes, 3 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What are the Pandora Papers?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What are the Pandora Papers? Thanks for asking!
On October 3rd, the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists began publishing leaked documents exposing the hidden assets of some of the world’s richest and most powerful people.
Five years after the Panama Papers revelations, the latest investigation, carried out over two years, represents the biggest ever leak of offshore data, showing the global scale of tax evasion. In total 11.9 million documents were leaked, totalling 2.94 terabytes worth of data.
It has been dubbed the Pandora Papers, evoking Pandora’s Box from Greek mythology, a jar containing the world’s evils.
So who is implicated in the Pandora Papers leak? Did they actually do anything illegal? What’s different this time compared to previous leaks like the Paradise Papers and Panama Papers? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is degrowth?
What is coolsculpting?
What is a bore-out?
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12/11/2021 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
What is Hanukkah?
What is Hanukkah?
This week saw the end of Hanukkah, so let's look at the history and customs related to the annual Jewish festival which falls in December each year. It's often known as the festival of Lights, and its origins go back as far as 22 centuries! The celebration is synonymous with commemorating a miracle. According to rabbinic tradition and ancient texts, Hanukkah represents the victory of the Jewish people over Greek invaders.
What did the Jewish community do? What happened next? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a testicle bath?
What is Yentl Syndrome?
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12/11/2021 • 3 minutes, 53 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What is the Olympic flame?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What is the Olympic flame? Thanks for asking!
As Japan prepares to host the delayed 2020 Olympics, let’s look at one of the Games’ iconic symbols, the Olympic flame, and how it spreads the values of the Olympic movement. It brings a sense of identity to the Games, much like the Olympic rings and its Latin motto Citius Altius Fortius. Throughout the Games, the flame burns inside the Olympic stadium, symbolising the ideals of peace and friendship between people.
The flame is a reminder of the Games of ancient Greek times, when messengers travelled from city to city announcing competition dates, as well as calling for a sacred Olympic truce. This meant all conflicts ceased, allowing athletes and spectators to travel to Olympia. Of course in 2021, the coronavirus hasn’t agreed to any truce, so the Tokyo Games are being organised under strict measures.
Are you saying the history of the Olympics is linked to Ancient Greece? What happens once the flame is lit? What happens if the flame goes out? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the offside rule?
What is Auroville?
What is Straight Edge?
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12/10/2021 • 5 minutes, 2 seconds
What is Yentl Syndrome?
What is Yentl Syndrome?
You may have already heard about examples of sexist bias in medicine. Well Yentl Syndrome is a perfect demonstration of how women and men sometimes receive different medical treatment. American cardiologist Bernadine Healy, a former President of the National Institutes of Health, came up with the name in 1991, as the title of a paper in the New England Journal of Medicine. To sum up, her evidence seemed to suggest that men were taken more seriously than women when claiming to be sick.
Where does the name come from? How exactly does the treatment differ? How have things changed in recent years? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Ghostbusters?
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12/10/2021 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What is a heat dome?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What is a heat dome? Thanks for asking!
The Pacific north-west is typically a mild region when it comes to weather. But in late June, Western Canada experienced record temperatures, with the province of British Columbia hit particularly hard. Temperatures are usually around 21° on the Pacific coast, but reached 49.5°C in Lytton, a village around 100 miles to the North-east of Vancouver.
Cities on the other side of the border weren’t spared either, with Portland and Seattle both seeing their respective record temperatures smashed. We’re used to talk of heatwaves, but observers have labelled the latest situation a heat dome.
What’s the science behind these extreme temperatures? How dangerous is the heat dome? To what extent are heat domes due to climate change? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Olympic flame?
What is the glass ceiling?
What is the offside rule?
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12/9/2021 • 4 minutes, 45 seconds
What is a testicle bath?
What is a testicle bath?
Still in this day and age, the burden of being responsible for birth control falls mainly on women. You’ve got an almost endless list of reversible female methods, such as the pill, coil, vaginal ring and the implant, with new ones never ceasing to emerge. On the other hand, when it comes to male contraceptives, the options out there are pretty limited. Mentalities are evolving but there is little communication on the subject. That’s despite trials on the male pill having been carried out as you may remember from listening to our past episode on male contraception. Of course, men can choose to get a vasectomy but that is a permanent procedure.
How does it actually work? It wasn’t a man who came up with this? Should we be expecting to see the testicle bath device available soon? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is an Advent calendar?
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12/9/2021 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What were the Troubles?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What were the Troubles? Thanks for asking!
It’s been 23 years since the Good Friday peace agreement put an end to The Troubles, a decades-long period of violence which saw 3,500 people die. Nevertheless, in recent weeks riots broke out in loyalist areas of Northern Ireland’s major cities, including Derry and Belfast. Gangs of youths attacked police, injuring scores of officers in the worst violence the country has seen for years.
What’s caused tensions to rise again in Northern Ireland? How did the Troubles begin? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Operation London Bridge?
What is a lateral flow test?
What is vegetarianism?
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12/8/2021 • 6 minutes, 2 seconds
What is Ghostbusters?
What is Ghostbusters?
Ghouls and spectres beware, the Ghostbusters are back! Ghostbusters: Afterlife hit cinemas on December 1, 2021. This is the long-awaited fourth film in the saga, which was originally due for release in summer 2020.
Wait a minute, give us a bit of background for those of us who aren’t Ghostbusters aficionados. What went wrong? So why take a risk by trying again five years later? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/8/2021 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What is hygge?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What is hygge? Thanks for asking!
Picture this: you’re indoors, in front of a warm fireplace, with a plaid rug over your legs, sipping a cup of tea or cocoa while watching a film. Or you could be relaxing with a candlelit bath, soothing music and a book in your hands. Well, you might not realise it, but you’re experiencing a typical hygge moment.
Wait a minute, what language are we talking about here? When did hygge get to be so popular? Is this kind of cosiness really that specific to Scandinavia? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is breaking?
What is the cosmic calendar?
What is an immunity passport?
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12/7/2021 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What is an Advent calendar?
What is an Advent calendar?
If you’re anything like us, you’ll have been eagerly waiting for the clock to go past midnight on December 1st to have the first chocolate from this year’s Advent Calendar! These special festive calendars are used to count down to Christmas, all through the month of December. They traditionally offer simple treats like chocolate, but in recent years, holiday shoppers have been spoiled for choice with liquor, toy and make-up-filled alternatives. Retailers offer a variety of options, including wine, beer, cheese, candy, candles, and more.
So what’s the story behind Advent calendars? But what is the religious meaning of the calendar? And what's the deal with the kids? Why make them wait? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is reality shifting?
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12/7/2021 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
[2021 RETROSPECTIVE] What is long COVID?
"Do you really know?" is Bababam's daily podcast, which helps you understand the words, acronyms, and concepts that are making the news every day. From December 6th to 20th, discover the words that have left their mark on the year, with our 2021 Retrospective. From the "Pandora Papers" affair to the "#QuitMyJob" hashtag and of course the "Long Covid" condition, (re)discover these words that sum up 2021.
What is long COVID? Thanks for asking!
Even months after infection, some Covid-19 patients have continued to suffer from symptoms such as extreme fatigue, lack of sleep or breathing problems. And these are mostly people who have long been discharged from hospital, or never even went there in the first place. This form of the virus is generally multi-symptomatic and protean.
The term long Covid was actually coined by a group of infected patients, who experienced it during the first wave of the pandemic. They had to campaign for months to raise public awareness and draw greater attention from the medical community, getting it on the agenda for scientific research.
Does long Covid affect a high proportion of patients? How would I know if I had long Covid? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Clubhouse?
What is a nasal spray vaccine?
What is quantum technology?
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12/6/2021 • 4 minutes, 1 second
What is reality shifting?
What is reality shifting?
This trend took off among teenagers on both sides of the Atlantic during the first round of lockdowns last year. It found its home on TikTok, all starting out with the #ShiftingRealities hashtag, which went from 170 million views to over a billion in just a few months. Shifting implies moving one’s own consciousness to another alternative reality. It could be very similar to the so-called real world, with small differences, or completely fictional. It could be the world you’ve read about in a book, seen on TV or simply invented from scratch.
What kind of scenarios are possible with reality shifting? So tell me, how does shifting reality work? And does it actually work?! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is woofing?
What are Yuccies?
Who is Peng Shuai?
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12/6/2021 • 5 minutes
[RERUN] What is a virus variant region?
What is a virus variant region?
Another variant of the coronavirus has appeared: the omicron variant. An opportunity to talk about variant viruses again. The Indian variant known as B.1.617 is causing concern in Europe, particularly due to a steep rise in infections since early May. It recently spread into the United Kingdom, where it is currently taking over as the dominant variant. As a result, Germany reclassified the UK as a virus variant region on May 23rd. Travel between the UK and Germany is therefore strictly limited for the time being, meaning only German citizens or residents are allowed to enter the country. Even then, whether arriving by train, car or plane, they are also subject to a two week isolation period, which can’t be shortened even by testing negative.
I thought the UK’s health situation was going much better! Is Germany the only country to have put in place restrictions against visitors from the UK?Could the Indian variant have an impact on summer holiday plans in Europe? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are Yuccies?
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What is climate change famine?
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12/5/2021 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What are fine particles?
What are fine particles?
According to a European Environment Agency report in November 2021, 307,000 people in the EU died prematurely in 2019 due to fine particle pollution. That number represented a 10% decrease compared to the year before, but that’s not exactly cause for celebration; the figures are still alarming. Fine particle pollution is everywhere, especially in urban areas, and considerably impacts public health. This invisible killer is a major item on the environmental agenda.
Are they visible to the naked eye? So are they dangerous for your health? Which countries are the most affected? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/4/2021 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What is Albedo?
What is Albedo?
The Albedo scale is studied and used in multiple fields like astrology and geology. It actually refers to the reflective power of any surface. The term comes from the Latin word for whiteness, and came into use in the field of optics in 1760. The notion is also significant in climate studies, and the idea of global warming.
So how is it calculated? Can you give me any other real life examples? That’s all fascinating, but what does it have to do with climate change? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is woofing?
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12/2/2021 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
What is woofing?
What is woofing?
The world is still in the middle of a health crisis. And while travel has resumed with the reopening of borders, more sustainable tourism practices have come to the fore in the past two years. One such example is wwoofing, which started growing in popularity prior to the Covid pandemic. And no, it’s got nothing to do with dogs despite the name! The name is derived from the acronym WWOOF, standing for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms.
So if I work in woofing, do I get paid? So where does woofing come from? How do I become a woofer in the UK? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are Yuccies?
Who is Peng Shuai?
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12/1/2021 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
What are Yuccies?
What are Yuccies? Thanks for asking!
In today’s episode, let’s talk about a term which mixes sociology and lifestyle newspeak. Yuccies is an abbreviation for Young urban creatives.
The term started trending after American journalist David Infante introduced it in an article on Mashable in June 2015. Within weeks, the concept had been covered on many other websites, with the original article being shared over 75,000 times.
Hmm, that sounds a lot like hipsters? What sets yuccies apart? What kind of careers do yuccies tend to pursue? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is climate change famine?
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11/29/2021 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
[RERUN] What is Fast Fashion?
What is Fast Fashion? Thanks for asking!
Friday, November 19th, 2021, it was Black Friday. The opportunity to come back on the concept of fast fashion. Fast fashion is to fashion what fast food is to dining. That is to say a poor-quality imitation, which everybody criticises but still nevertheless consumes!
Adopted by many clothing brands, this strategy consists of regularly bringing out new collections and offering low-price items. Customers are therefore encouraged to buy new clothes almost constantly.
These practices haven’t just come about by magic. They meet an increasing level of demand caused by expanding middle classes across the world, especially in developing countries. These consumers want more clothes and in particular cheaper clothes. The MacArthur Foundation estimates that by 2050, clothes sales will have at least tripled worldwide.
This all seems rather bleak, so what can we do? Stop wearing clothes and turn to naturism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/28/2021 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
Who is Peng Shuai?
Who is Peng Shuai? Thanks for asking!
If you’re not a tennis follower, the chances are you may never have heard of Chinese player Peng Shuai. But in her discipline, she is kind of a big deal. A two-time doubles Grand Slam winner, she has also been ranked as high as 14th in the world during her singles career.
But rather than asking “who is Peng Shuai?”, the question on everyone’s lips over the last couple of weeks has been “where is Peng Shuai?”. Indeed the Twitter hashtag has been used many thousands of times, since she vanished from the public eye.
How did it all start? What happened next? Has she been seen since? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is climate change famine?
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11/27/2021 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
What is climate change famine?
What is climate change famine? Thanks for asking!
The COP26 summit, which took place earlier this month, revealed that concerns related to climate change are now more pressing than ever. In June 2021, Madagascar became the first country in the world officially affected by a climate change famine that swept over the south of the island as a result of global warming.
What makes it a particularly affected area is that 9 out of 10 people there live below the poverty line. According to the UN, 30,000 Malagasy are suffering from famine and 1.3 million are victims of acute malnutrition. The World Food Program reported that the figure includes 500,000 children, with over a fifth of those children affected by a severe form.
How did this climate change famine come about? What do Madagascar's inhabitants eat then? Is there a chance of similar famines breaking out in other countries? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is an unvaccinated lockdown?
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11/25/2021 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
What is an unvaccinated lockdown?
What is an unvaccinated lockdown? Thanks for asking!
Just when we thought Covid lockdowns were a thing of the past, the pandemic has once again taken a turn for the worse in Europe. Despite a full vaccination rate at 65.5% on average across the EU, a new wave is hitting hard in the build-up to winter.
Some countries are now taking a more targeted approach by imposing restrictive measures specifically on those who are not vaccinated. This started out last week, when Austrian Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg announced such a lockdown. Those who hadn’t been fully vaccinated would only be able to leave their homes for essential reasons, like going to work or buying food.
What has the reaction been in Austria? Have other countries introduced similar measures? What’s the logic behind such restrictions? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/24/2021 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
What is the four-day week?
What is the four-day week? Thanks for asking!
It might be an unlikely dream for most of us, but many Spanish workers will be trying out a four-day week from the start of 2022. 200 companies have put themselves forward for a three-year pilot project. The best part? There won’t be any pay cuts to worry about, thanks to a 50M€ support fund released by the country’s government.
Spanish fashion company Desigual got off to a headstart, bringing in a similar move a few weeks ago after employees heavily backed the initiative in a vote. In exchange for the additional day’s rest, workers at the company’s Barcelona HQ accepted a 6.5% pay cut. And the results so far certainly seem satisfying both on the worker and employer side.
What is the Spanish government hoping for? Have other countries tested the four-day work week? What about in the UK? Could we see something similar soon? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/22/2021 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
[RERUN] What is the Covid vaccine pill?
What is the Covid vaccine pill? Thanks for asking!
The United Kingdom has announced the approval of the molnupiravir-based Covid-19 tablet treatment developed by the American laboratory Merck. Summer 2021 has seen Covid-19 vaccine campaigns making steady progress around the world. As of the start of August, 15% of the global population had been fully vaccinated.
While health authorities in some countries are considering a third dose by injection, Oravax Medical, a subsidiary of Israeli pharmaceutical company Oramed, is hoping to produce a Covid-19 vaccine in pill form.
A pill?! So you’d just swallow it like paracetamol then? How would the vaccine actually work? Is it really that revolutionary of a vaccine method? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/21/2021 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
What are primitive reflexes?
What are primitive reflexes? Thanks for asking!
According to the UK Office for National Statistics, September 26 was the most popular day to be born over the last two decades, which falls 39 weeks and two days after Christmas day. Babies are born with certain reflexes that result in involuntary movements. These are called primitive reflexes, and the movements happen automatically without the baby sending a message to their brain. Such reflexes develop during the foetal period and indicate that the baby’s brain is functioning well.
What are some examples? Isn’t it just the cutest when a baby grabs your finger? Do these reflexes remain with babies as they develop into children? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/20/2021 • 3 minutes, 44 seconds
What is Demon Slayer?
What is Demon Slayer? Thanks for asking!
Forget Squid Game. Kimestsu no Yaiba is the latest big hit. Doesn’t ring a bell? How about Demon Slayer, the new Shōnen Jump bestseller? Shōnen Jump is the iconic Japanese manga anthology that brought to us such gems as One Piece, Naruto, Dragon Ball, and My Hero Academia. But unlike these extended series, the manga by Koyoharu Gotōge ended in 2020, after 23 volumes.
What is it about? Could you say Demon Slayer has revolutionized manga? Are there any future plans for the franchise? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/18/2021 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What is PMS?
What is PMS? Thanks for asking!
Headaches, bloating, painful swelling in the breasts and lower abdomen, stress, extreme fatigue, anxiety, and depression; the list is almost endless. These are some common symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, known as PMS for short.
They usually appear two to seven days before a woman gets her period. In rare cases, they can occur as early as two weeks prior. Generally speaking, symptoms disappear when the period arrives, or shortly after.
Are you saying it affects all women then? Where do these symptoms come from? Are some people affected more than others? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/17/2021 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What is Ikigai?
What is Ikigai? Thanks for asking!
The Japanese concept of Ikigai roughly translates as “reason for being”, like . The “Iki” part means life, while “gai” refers to value or worth.
So it effectively means finding a purpose to life and the things we spend our time doing. This philosophy dates back to the 12th century, but has been gaining in popularity among Westerners in recent years.
That’s in particular thanks to the 2017 release of Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life, a book by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles. It includes the top ten key rules of Ikigai, based on a case study of residents from the village of Ogimi in Okinawa.
Okinawa, you say? Why does that ring a bell? So are you saying it’s the secret to a long and meaningful life? Where can I sign up? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/15/2021 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
[RERUN] What are NFTs?
What are NFTs? Thanks for asking!
NFTs are the talk of the town in early November 2021. Quentin Tarantino is auctioning off NFTs of unedited scenes from "Pulp Fiction". It’s one of the latest crazes in the world of blockchain. Non-fungible tokens are digital certificates of ownership, which state who owns a piece of virtual crypto-art. That’s right, you can now buy collectible digital art, like memes, GIFs, videos and even tweets, all thanks to NFTs. NFTs emerged in 2017, as part of the Ethereum cryptocurrency blockchain. You’ve most likely heard of bitcoin and blockchain before. Well, NFTs are based on the same technology.
So are NFTs cryptocurrency then? What are the advantages of using the blockchain? Why would anyone spend millions on something that can be copied endlessly and can’t even be hung up on their wall? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/14/2021 • 5 minutes
What is PTSD?
What is PTSD? Thanks for asking!
This mental health condition may be invisible, but it ruins the lives of those who suffer from it.
Post-traumatic stress disorder can come on following a number of events. These can include witnessing or being a victim of violence. It could also be a natural disaster or act of terrorism for example.
We all experience traumatic events at some point in our lives, which take time to recover from. But with PTSD sufferers, the intense and disturbing thoughts last much longer and can interfere with their daily lives.
What are the main signs of PTSD? Is there any way to get around PTSD? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who are Abba?
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11/13/2021 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
Who are Abba?
Who are Abba? Thanks for asking!
A full forty years after their last LP “The Visitors”, Abba have only gone and released a new album! That’s right, with Voyage now available for download, let’s take the opportunity to talk about one of Euro-disco's most legendary bands!
Why are they called Abba again? What are their most popular classics? Why did the band end up splitting? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/11/2021 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What is healthwashing?
What is healthwashing? Thanks for asking!
We’ve already talked about greenwashing, pinkwashing and sportswashing in past episodes. Well even the world of health doesn’t escape from cynical marketing practices. Let’s talk about healthwashing.
The term covers a pretty wide range of practices, but it’s most commonly associated with the food industry. Manufacturers often overplay the addition of certain nutritious items in their products, implying that there are real health benefits to be gained.
You might see labels using buzzwords such as : “contains natural flavours” or “made with real fruit” while in reality the products may actually be comparable to other processed foods.
This can lead consumers into a false sense of security, as shown by a study from the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in 2017. Participants surveyed were less likely to look for nutrition information when a nutrient claim was shown on packaging, and often ended up selecting a less healthy product as a result.
What exactly does it consist of? Well, that’s not great, but it’s still pretty common in the grand scheme of things, isn’t it? Well if it’s as simple as reading a label correctly, we should be OK, shouldn’t we? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/10/2021 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What is the Big Quit?
What is the Big Quit? Thanks for asking!
Remember our episode on #QuitMyJob, about thousands of Americans publicly quitting their jobs on TikTok? Since then, the phenomenon has continued gaining momentum in the United States under a new name: the Great Resignation, or the Big Quit.
According to a report published by the US Department of Labour on October 13, 2021, this August alone saw 4.3 million resignations nationwide. Count in the rest of summer and spring, and the figure jumps to a staggering 20 million. In the spirit of similar past initiatives, The Big Quit is yet another movement that offers resistance to unfair employers and unsafe working conditions.
What got this trend started then? Has the movement spread to other countries? Does the movement prompt companies to become more attractive by raising wages, for example? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/8/2021 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
[RERUN] What is collapsology?
What is collapsology? Thanks for asking!
At COP26, leaders from more than 100 countries, including Brazil, will commit to halting deforestation, restoring forests and ending land degradation by the end of the decade. Collapsology is the transdisciplinary study of how our industrial civilisation could collapse, and indeed what may come afterwards. Its ideas are gaining in visibility and popularity. The term collapsology is a neologism, having been created in 2015. It was popularised by French authors Pablo Servigne and Raphael Stevens, who that year published a book called How Everything Can Collapse. As far back as 1972, the Meadow Report published by MIT researchers warned of the risks of exponential population and economic growth on a planet where resources are limited. One of the main ideas of collapsology is that human activity is affecting the planet in a negative and lasting way.
Well, there’s nothing new in those ideas, really? So we’re all screwed then! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/7/2021 • 3 minutes, 37 seconds
What is Jackass?
What is Jackass? Thanks for asking!
On October 27, 2021, "Jackass Forever", the American squad’s fifth and last feature film, was released in cinemas. It’s the perfect opportunity to look back at an MTV show which achieved huge popularity in the early 2000s.
The Jackass Squad is a group of somewhat provocative and downright daredevil friends, who take on crazy challenges, often with reckless disregard for their physical health. The almost exclusively male team consisted of about ten permanent members and some occasional guests.
What kind of crazy stuff did they get up to? How did it start? Is the crew still active these days then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/6/2021 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
What is Squid Game?
What is Squid Game? Thanks for asking!
Since its release in September 2021, Squid Game has become the most popular Netflix show of all time. The South Korean production tells the dystopian tale of 456 people mired in debt, who face off against one another in survival games. The show has become the most-watched series in 90 countries.
Along with other trials, the game of Statues takes place on a deserted island. The stakes? The jackpot or death.
What evidence is there of the show’s success? The concept seems rather violent! The idea isn't exactly new... In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/4/2021 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What is wokeism?
What is wokeism? Thanks for asking!
The term “woke” took off in the United States in the 2010s. The past form of the verb “to wake” is used to imply an awakening to injustices inflicted upon minorities by an oppressive system.
Woke activists call out systemic racism and police violence against groups like Black Lives Matter. Since then, it has become a go-to in public and media debates. Its critics say it has become a loaded term and those who use it often don’t understand the true meaning behind it.
Even though its popularity is relatively recent, the origins go back further. As far back as 1860, there was a Wide Awake anti-slavery movement supporting Abraham Lincoln, who was running as a candidate in the presidential election of that year. Around a hundred years later, similar allusions could be found in the speeches of Martin Luther King. At Oberlin University, Ohio in June 1965, he urged young Americans to stay awake and be an engaged generation.
What do “woke” people stand for these days? Do you mean, over time, the term has come to encompass all these different causes? Is there a way to put an end to injustice? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/3/2021 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
What is sex work?
What is sex work? Thanks for asking!
Sex work is basically a term used for any practices involving a sexual service, whether physical or not, in exchange for money.
Contrary to popular opinion, it’s not simply limited to prostitution. The term also includes lap dancing, phone sex, erotic massage and escort services for example. Not to mention online services like webcam performance and adult content creation.
The term sex workers is sometimes abbreviated to SW.
Where does the expression come from? What does it do? How does that fit in with the feminist movement? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/1/2021 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
[RERUN] What is carbon footprint?
What is carbon footprint? Thanks for asking!
Postponed for a year because of Covid-19, COP26 meets in Scotland from October 31 to November 12. A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted by the energy and raw material consumption of a person, organisation or event. It is measured in the volume of CO2 emitted. Per capita emissions in the USA are estimated at around 16 tons per year. That includes CO2 produced directly by an individual’s household, and emissions created by products they consume. The rough split is 70/30 between the two.
It’s a bit of a vague calculation though, isn’t it? But it must be pretty darn difficult to place an accurate value on the impact of all living beings in a country? How can I reduce my own footprint? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/31/2021 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
What is restless anal syndrome?
What is restless anal syndrome? Thanks for asking!
Although the global vaccination rate reached 40% in mid-October, Covid-19 clearly hasn’t gone away for good just yet. The most common symptoms of coronavirus are mostly well-known, but it keeps surprising us with new repercussions, like restless anal syndrome for example.
On September 23rd, the BMC Infectious Diseases journal reported on the case of a 77-year-old Japanese man suffering from restless anal syndrome several weeks after being discharged from hospital. He’d had no such problems prior to Covid infection, leading researchers to suggest that it could be responsible.
How did this unpleasant side effect come on? But how on earth did we get from a seasonal virus to a restless anus? Does it have anything to do with restless leg syndrome? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/30/2021 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
What is eco-anxiety?
What is eco-anxiety? Thanks for asking!
The UN’s COP26 summit is due to start this Sunday, and it’s pretty clear to most of us that climate change is the most serious threat to our health. Of course it’s a physical threat, especially to the vulnerable, due to extreme weather events like heatwaves, storms and fires, which are increasingly frequent and intense.
But we mustn’t neglect the mental impact, as fear of the future is eating away at the minds of many. Indeed, climate-related disasters and environmental catastrophes are causing a lot of confusion and worry about the future of the planet.
The label eco-anxiety has emerged as the latest addition to a growing vocabulary around climate change, alongside terms like climate depression and solastalgia.
A 2017 definition from the American Psychiatric Association calls eco-anxiety a “chronic sense of environmental doom”. It’s not strictly speaking a medical diagnosis, but it can interfere with people’s daily lives and personal ambitions.
Is it really that widespread? What’s the best way to manage feelings of eco-anxiety? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/28/2021 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
What is the metaverse?
What is the metaverse? Thanks for asking!
We had already had hints over the summer, but it’s now been confirmed by a recent statement from Facebook HQ. The Silicon Valley tech giant has big plans to hire 10,000 new highly-skilled staff in Europe over the next five years, as part of plans to develop the metaverse.
It’s even planning to change its name, with a rebranding announcement expected any day now.
Wait a minute; are you saying it won’t be called Facebook anymore? A digital parallel universe, huh! What does that even mean? When did this metaverse idea first appear? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/27/2021 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
What is Netflix?
What is Netflix? Thanks for asking!
In its fifteen years of existence, Netflix has revolutionised the way we watch films and series, becoming synonymous with the explosion of online streaming.
The company actually started out as a DVD rental business in the United States before the turn of the century. But of course it's now known for its transformation into an on-demand streaming service, the first of its kind in the world.
Its initial success was down to a large catalogue of films and series which drew in the first waves of subscribers.
Since then it’s become more known for producing its own original content, right? Which series have been the most well received? Spill the beans then, which shows came out on top? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/25/2021 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
[RERUN] What are e-cigarettes ?
What are e-cigarettes ? Thanks for asking!
The British government wants to get tough on smoking. On October 20, 2021, MPs submitted to Parliament an amendment to the Health Bill that would allow each cigarette to carry the words "Smoking kills". This is an opportunity to return to the term "e-cigarette". An e-cigarette is a vaporizer that simulates smoking without tobacco consumption. A product like this could therefore help smokers to quit. The use of electronic cigarettes is on the rise, while tobacco sales are dropping. But before we get carried away about wiping out tobacco, we should remember that e-cigarettes are not totally risk-free.
How did e-cigarettes come about? What do they contain? Are they dangerous? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/24/2021 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
What is Tinder?
What is Tinder? Thanks for asking!
Since launching in the US in 2012, there’s no doubting Tinder has certainly revolutionized dating and relationships. According to Business of Apps, it has over 75 million monthly active users, making it the most used dating app worldwide.
For those of you who aren’t familiar with Tinder, it’s just like any online dating platform in that you enter your personal details, orientation and a short bio, upload a few pics, and, this part is important, share your location.
After all, the particular appeal of Tinder is its geolocation system, which lets you connect with and meet people nearby. It quickly became synonymous with swiping: right to like or left to pass. Once you’ve matched with another user, you can exchange private messages.
Sounds simple enough! So what are the latest developments in the world of Tinder? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/23/2021 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
What is sportswashing?
What is sportswashing? Thanks for asking!
Look out Premier League clubs, a new big boy is in town! That’s right, following approval of their acquisition by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Newcastle United has all of a sudden become one of the richest clubs in the world!
While the Toon Army are celebrating their club’s new found wealth and dreaming of trophies to come in the future, other observers aren’t in such a buoyant mood. They’ve accused the new owners, who effectively represent the state of Saudi Arabia, of sportswashing.
Have the new owners actually done anything wrong? How common are we talking then? Why would sports clubs or athletes want to risk tarnishing their image with such links? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/21/2021 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What is Polexit?
What is Polexit? Thanks for asking!
With Brexit finally having become a reality earlier this year, could other countries follow suit and leave the EU? Well the prospect of a similar Polexit isn’t outside the realms of possibility according to some observers.
To understand why the term is on everyone’s lips, you need to look back at what happened in Poland on October 7th. The country’s constitutional court found that certain articles of EU treaties were incompatible with the national constitution. It ruled that Polish law should supersede EU law.
The country openly challenging the primacy of European law, which dates back to the 1960s, is truly a historic and unprecedented decision.
What was the EU’s response? How did relations get to be so strained between the EU and Poland? Is Polexit really possible? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/20/2021 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What is Generation Alpha?
What is Generation Alpha? Thanks for asking!
After Generation X, Generation Y (also known as the Millennials) and Gen-Z, where do you go next? Well back to the start of the alphabet as it turns out, albeit a different one! That’s right; Generation Alpha takes its name from the first letter of the Greek alphabet, and it’s the unofficial name for the successors of Gen Z.
The term came from a survey carried out by Australian consulting agency McCrindle Research in 2008. If it catches on enough, we could expect the following generations to be known as Beta, Gamma and Delta.
What are the characteristics of Generation Alpha members then? What else is noteworthy aside from technology? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/18/2021 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
[RERUN] What were the Troubles?
What were the Troubles? Thanks for asking!
The British government is stepping up its pressure on Brussels and demanding "significant changes" in the protocol governing post-Brexit customs arrangements specific to Northern Ireland. It’s been 23 years since the Good Friday peace agreement put an end to The Troubles, a decades-long period of violence which saw 3,500 people die. Nevertheless, in recent weeks riots broke out in loyalist areas of Northern Ireland’s major cities, including Derry and Belfast. Gangs of youths attacked police, injuring scores of officers in the worst violence the country has seen for years.
What’s caused tensions to rise again in Northern Ireland? How did the Troubles begin? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/17/2021 • 5 minutes, 34 seconds
Who is Harlan Coben?
Who is Harlan Coben? Thanks for asking!
His name might not be as familiar as that of Stephen King, but that hasn’t stopped novelist Harlan Coben achieving unrivalled success in his field, at least when it comes to book sales. After all, we’re talking 75 million copies of his 32 books printed and sold in over 40 countries worldwide. In his home country, the US, he has won pretty much every award out there for crime novels.
What are the secrets of his success? Given the success of his books, I bet filmmakers were excited at the prospect of adapting them! How has Coban’s popularity grown in recent years? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/16/2021 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
What is plogging?
What is plogging? Thanks for asking!
We’ve covered several Scandinavian wellness trends in the past and here’s one which is good for both the body and soul. Plogging is a mash-up of the Swedish term “plocka upp”, which means picking up, and the English word “jogging”.
So what are we picking up while jogging? Does it actually burn that many calories? How can I get started then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/14/2021 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
What are the Pandora Papers?
What are the Pandora Papers? Thanks for asking!
On October 3rd, the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists began publishing leaked documents exposing the hidden assets of some of the world’s richest and most powerful people.
Five years after the Panama Papers revelations, the latest investigation, carried out over two years, represents the biggest ever leak of offshore data, showing the global scale of tax evasion. In total 11.9 million documents were leaked, totalling 2.94 terabytes worth of data.
It has been dubbed the Pandora Papers, evoking Pandora’s Box from Greek mythology, a jar containing the world’s evils.
So who is implicated in the Pandora Papers leak? Did they actually do anything illegal? What’s different this time compared to previous leaks like the Paradise Papers and Panama Papers? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/13/2021 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
What is degrowth?
What is degrowth? Thanks for asking!
Degrowth advocates believe that if we continue prioritising economic growth, political, environmental and geopolitical crises will only increase in number. It’s a form of opposition to consumerist society, all about the importance of the collective over the individual, and planet Earth over the human race.
Where does the term come from? What are the arguments in favour of degrowth? So how do we get started on ‘degrowing’? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/11/2021 • 3 minutes, 48 seconds
[RERUN] What is conversion therapy?
What is conversion therapy? Thanks for asking!
In the midst of the scandal surrounding pedocriminality within the Catholic Church, conversion therapies have been voted to be banned in France on October 5, 2021. Conversion therapy, also known as homotherapy, is a pseudoscientific practice that seeks to convert homosexuals to heterosexuality, or at least encourage them to be abstinent. Largely pushed by religious groups, this kind of therapy is still growing in Europe and America. The practices are not only ineffective, but can also be dangerous.
OK so it’s mainly a thing in religious or conservative countries, is it? So does it actually work? Can you change someone’s sexual orientation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/10/2021 • 3 minutes, 46 seconds
What is coolsculpting?
What is coolsculpting? Thanks for asking!
Just a couple of weeks ago, 90s catwalk star Linda Evangelista shared an emotional post on Instagram. The model revealed she had left the public eye for the last five years to hide the disastrous results of a coolsculpting procedure.
She has decided to sue Zeltiq Aesthetics, the company who markets CoolSculpting, for $50M, arguing the botched treatment has had a huge impact on her earnings and emotional distress.
So is CoolSculpting a kind of cosmetic procedure then? So what went wrong on this occasion? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/9/2021 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
What is a bore-out?
What is a bore-out? Thanks for asking!
Hearing the term will likely make you think of another kind of psycho-social condition related to the world of work; that of a burnout. Well bore-outs are perhaps less well-known than their workaholic cousin, but they are actually much more common.
A Forbes article from January 2020 suggested that between 43% and 53% of employees are bored of their job.
What are the signs of a bore-out? What are the primary causes? What can be done to avoid a bore-out? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/7/2021 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
Who is James Bond?
Who is James Bond? Thanks for asking!
Since its original planned release in March 2020, the 25th James Bond film has been pushed back over and over again. But good things come to those who wait as they say, and No Time To Die finally opened in cinemas around the UK last week.
More than 60 years after the first 007 film was produced, any new instalment is still a major event in the cinematic calendar.
How did the saga start out? And how did the series manage to stay relevant? What can we expect from the next generation of James Bond films? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/6/2021 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What is reproductive health?
What is reproductive health? Thanks for asking!
September 26, 2021, was World Contraception Day. The event was first held in 2007 by ten international family-planning organizations to raise awareness about contraception and help each new generation of adults make informed decisions until every pregnancy in the world is a planned one.
In other words, it promotes what is known as sexual and reproductive health.
What exactly does that mean? Isn't that already accessible in most countries? What measures are being taken at a global level today? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/4/2021 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
[RERUN] What are LGBT-free zones?
What are LGBT-free zones? Thanks for asking!
Monday September 27th, three Polish regions scrap anti-LGBT resolutions. The European Parliament declared the E.U. to be an LGBTIQ Freedom zone. That was in reaction to the increasing number of LGBT-free zones in Poland, which have been making headlines for the last two years. Poland has gained a reputation as the worst EU country for LGBT rights.
If we look back to early 2019, the liberal mayor of Warsaw had announced plans to integrate LGBT issues into the curriculum of the city’s schools. This caused anger among conservative politicians and media. In March 2019, the first “LGBT ideology-free zone” was declared in the rural town of Swidnik. Dozens of regions, towns and villages followed suit in the ensuing months, especially in the strongly Catholic South-East and East of Poland.
Is there even such a thing as an LGBT ideology? What has the reaction been among the LGBT community in Poland? So the rest of Europe was outraged, but what did it actually do? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/3/2021 • 5 minutes, 7 seconds
What is Lagom?
What is Lagom? Thanks for asking!
The Swedish term lagom is one of those words that doesn’t have an exact equivalent in English, yet it has caught on as a wellness trend. If you had to translate it, you’d probably go with something like “just the right amount” or “according to common sense.”
It’s kind of similar to the expression “less is more” in intention, used as a contrast to the idea that more is always better. It is often used with regards to the world of work and the much-hyped work-life balance everyone craves these days.
Where does the idea of lagom come from? How does that translate into work/life balance? Are there any downsides? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who are Oasis?
What is the Aukus alliance?
What is the Britney Spears conservatorship case?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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10/2/2021 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
Who are Oasis?
Who are Oasis? Thanks for asking!
On August 10th 1996, Oasis drew over 250,000 fans to their gigs on two consecutive nights at Knebworth Park. Much like the band, these record-breaking concerts would end up gaining legendary status.
And just a week ago, a dedicated Oasis Knebworth 1996 documentary premiered in UK cinemas, making it the perfect opportunity to talk about one of the country’s most successful bands.
Why are they called Oasis again? How did Oasis get to be so successful? Why aren’t Oasis still producing music to this day? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/30/2021 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
What is the Aukus alliance?
What is the Aukus alliance? Thanks for asking!
On September 16th, Australia announced it had signed a strategic pact with the United States and United Kingdom. The aim is to ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific, which consists of several important seaways between India, Japan and Australia. The ocean region is a hub for global trade and energy supply.
The recent pact was named AUKUS, to include the initials of the three signatory countries. It will see the United States provide Australia with at least eight new nuclear-propelled submarines.
Australia is therefore set to become the seventh country, after India, China, Russia, the UK, France and the US to field nuclear submarines. Furthermore, the US had only ever previously shared nuclear propulsion technology with the United Kingdom, so it’s quite the historic development.
So everyone’s a winner right? Why did Australia prefer forming an alliance with the US then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/29/2021 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
What is the Britney Spears conservatorship case?
What is the Britney Spears conservatorship case? Thanks for asking!
Ardent fans and onlookers alike have probably noticed the diva’s disappearance from major social media platforms, including Instagram. Before deactivating her accounts, Britney assured her followers on Twitter she was just taking a break to celebrate her engagement and promised to be back soon.
However, there seems to be more to the story. According to the Guardian, the star’s account has been a focus in the battle over her conservatorship, a complex legal arrangement that has been making her life miserable for 13 years. Britney mentioned walking out of social media is a way of proclaiming her regained freedom.
But how did conservatorship turn her life into a nightmare? Who would do that to her? But given Britney’s breakdown, don’t you think conservatorship is appropriate? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/27/2021 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
[RERUN] What is the baby bust?
What is the baby bust? Thanks for asking!
The United Kingdom is facing a particularly low birth rate recorded. The phenomenon could have significant long-term economic consequences, a British think tank warned on Monday 20 September 2021. You’ve almost certainly heard of the baby boom, which saw birth rates soar in many countries following the end of the Second World War. Well, we’re currently experiencing the opposite of that thanks in part to the Covid-19 pandemic. Many observers have labelled this a baby bust.
Are you saying there’s been a significant drop in the number of births? What are the likely consequences of this baby bust? Are governments taking action to stop this trend? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is toxic positivity?
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What is the #QuitMyJob trend?
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9/26/2021 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
What is mucosal immunity?
What is mucosal immunity? Thanks for asking!
It was announced last week that Covid booster vaccines would soon be available to millions of people across the UK, including all over 50s and other people with underlying health conditions.
In the meantime, new ways to combat the virus are emerging, specifically that of an nasal spray vaccine designed to boost mucosal immunity. Regular listeners may recall our recent episode on this kind of vaccine. The latest developments this month saw a team of French researchers present promising results from preliminary clinical trials on mice and hamsters.
How is mucosal immunity different to what’s generated by traditional vaccines then? Are you saying we won’t ever reach herd immunity with the existing vaccines? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/25/2021 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What are Butler Cafés?
What are Butler Cafés? Thanks for asking!
In recent months, an interesting trend has been catching on in China. An increasing number of women are paying for male companionship in establishments known as butler cafés.
According to Chinese media outlet The Sixth Tone, butler cafés are enjoying impressive success. They’ve been springing up all over big cities for a few months. Review sites list dozens of outlets offering butler services.
And how do they work? The concept doesn’t sound completely new... In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/23/2021 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
What is last chance tourism?
What is last chance tourism? Thanks for asking!
Last chance tourism is a travel trend whereby tourists increasingly seek to experience the world’s most endangered sites before they vanish or are irrevocably transformed, according to the definition given by the Current Issues in Tourism magazine. Last chance tourism is also sometimes referred to as doomsday tourism. The term was first coined in the early 2010s in Britain, before catching on in other countries.
What kind of endangered sites are we talking about? One would think an influx of tourists will only contribute to these sites’ deterioration. Is that the case? What can we do to put an end to last-chance tourism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is toxic positivity?
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9/22/2021 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is toxic positivity?
What is toxic positivity? Thanks for asking!
“Good vibes only”, “everything happens for a reason”, “When life gives you lemons.”...You’ve almost certainly been told these mantras at some point in your life, whether in a professional or personal context.
Toxic positivity is a belief that people should maintain a positive mindset no matter how difficult their situation is.
Though they might seem comforting and well-intentioned, experts have suggested forcing positivity may actually do more harm than good to a person facing a difficult situation.
Why doesn't this kind of positivity work? What can you do to avoid toxic positivity? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a Tiny House?
What is tokenism?
What is squirting?
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9/20/2021 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
[RERUN] What is 5G?
What is 5G? Thanks for asking!
On Tuesday 14 September, Apple presented its new iPhone 13. With the 5G, the American company has boosted its iPhone sales. 5G is the fifth and newest generation of mobile connectivity. Its commercial rollout has already begun, with the four major US carriers having begun deployment in 2019. The GSMA estimates that 5G will account for 20% of all global connections by 2025. What’s more, this technological advance is at the heart of many economic and geopolitical issues. But associations and researchers have also warned on the potential risks 5G represents to health and the environment.
So what more will we be able to do with 5G that we can’t now? What about the planet? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/19/2021 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What is World Cleanup Day?
What is World Cleanup Day? Thanks for asking!
World Cleanup Day is held annually on the third Saturday of September all over the world. This year it falls today, on September 18th. The global initiative was launched by the Let’s Do It Foundation, a nonprofit association, and the aim is to combat pollution through community clean-ups. Created in 2008 in Estonia, the association is a certified member of the UN Environment Programme.
But why Estonia? What does a community clean-up mean? What kind of waste are we talking about? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/18/2021 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What is the #QuitMyJob trend?
What is the #QuitMyJob trend? Thanks for asking!
This hashtag went viral on TikTok during the summer. On social media, thousands of web users used the hashtag QuitMyJob to hand in their resignation directly on the Internet. For starters, to give their notice in style. But more importantly, to call their employers out for unacceptable behaviour. American Shana Blackwell, is seen as having started the QuitMyJob trend. In autumn 2020, she made the following announcement over her Walmart store’s PA system.
Hold on, why would anyone want to do that? Can employees get in trouble for making allegations against their employers online? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/16/2021 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
What is a Tiny House?
What is a Tiny House? Thanks for asking!
You may have spotted one in a park, at the edge of the woods, or in a parking lot in the middle of the countryside. Tiny houses on wheels or up on a trailer have been springing up like mushrooms for a number of years.
The tiny-house trend is a social and architectural movement that demonstrates a desire to return to simplicity by downsizing living spaces.
Where does this idea come from? But what are the perks of going tiny? How do you move into a Tiny House? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is tokenism?
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What are Fan Tokens?
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9/15/2021 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
What is tokenism?
What is tokenism? Thanks for asking!
Have you ever got the feeling a company or organisation is preaching equality, but it all feels a bit fake? Well, you may be witnessing what’s known as tokenism.
It’s a societal practice which is designed to prevent accusations of discrimination. It involves recruiting members of underrepresented groups to give an impression of equality. But more often than not, it’s easy to see through the facade.
Isn’t it a good thing to make minorities more visible? Which groups of people have been made into tokens in the past? What can society do better to address tokenism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/13/2021 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
[RERUN] What is Operation London Bridge?
What is Operation London Bridge? Thanks for asking!
This meticulous plan had remained largely secret until now. All the details of this dreaded moment have just been leaked to a British media. Queen Elizabeth II has reigned over the United Kingdom and Commonwealth since February 6th 1952, longer than any other British monarch.
Believe it or not, extensive protocol is already in place for the day when the Queen passes away. Plans known as Operation London Bridge were first made in the 1960s and are updated regularly.
Who will be the first to hear the news? How quickly will the rest of us find out? What are the practical arrangements for Operation London Bridge? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/12/2021 • 5 minutes, 21 seconds
What is the 9/11 Museum?
What is the 9/11 Museum? Thanks for asking!
It’s been twenty years since the 9/11 attacks which shocked the entire world, killing 2977 people. As part of the commemorations, President Biden is due to visit the three plane crash sites in New York City, Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon.
Part of the memorial at Ground Zero in New York includes the 9/11 Museum, which was inaugurated in May 2014 by then President Barack Obama. Its construction cost over $700M, and its aim is to ensure we and future generations never forget that fateful morning, all the while sending a message of hope, resilience and unity.
Of course, it’s important to remember such historical tragedies and learn from them, but the museum has not been without its critics since day one.
What’s it like inside the museum? It sounds very moving but what is the controversy about? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/11/2021 • 4 minutes, 55 seconds
What is squirting?
What is squirting? Thanks for asking!
OK, so from their teenage years onwards most men get used to fluid shooting out of their genitals on a regular basis. But female ejaculation is a thing too, and it’s known colloquially as squirting.
Most often, it’s when a woman expels fluid from the vulva either before or during an orgasm. It’s generally seen as a pleasurable sensation, even when it doesn’t happen at the same time as a climax.
The terms squirting and female ejaculation are commonly used interchangeably, but some researchers have suggested they are two distinct phenomena.
So squirting actually exists outside the world of porn? What is this mysterious fluid that comes out then? What are the secrets to making a woman squirt? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are Fan Tokens?
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9/9/2021 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
What are Fan Tokens?
What are Fan Tokens? Thanks for asking!
Even if you’re not a football fan, you can’t have missed the news of Lionel Messi’s recent transfer to Paris Saint Germain in mid-August. But you may not have heard details of the star’s €30M sign-on package at PSG, a significant proportion of which was paid in the club’s Fan Token cryptocurrency.
The move led to a spike in PSG trading, with the token value more than doubling from one week to the next.
Where can you buy fan tokens? And what’s the point? Why do football clubs need more money anyway? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/8/2021 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
What is terraforming?
What is terraforming? Thanks for asking!
If you’re a fan of sci-fi, the idea of terraformation should be familiar. It refers to all the techniques and technologies which aim to transform the surface of a planet, making it suitable for human inhabitation. Basically, it means making a planet similar to Earth.
To make a Hollywood comparison, that’s exactly the purpose of the Weyland-Yutani company in Ridley Scott’s Alien series. Terraforming may have originally been dreamt up in works of fiction, but today's real-world science has taken inspiration and is trying damn hard to put it into practice.
The first recorded use of the term terraforming appeared in Astounding Science Fiction magazine in 1942.
Which planets would be most likely terraforming candidates? So, how likely is it we could survive on Mars? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/6/2021 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
What is a deepfake?
What is a deepfake? Thanks for asking!
“Seeing is believing”, as the old saying goes, but in this day and age, you can never quite be sure, especially when viewing something online. Deepfaking is a technique used to create fake videos of real people, with the help of AI technology.
They’ve got a lot of attention in recent years, often as a source of light-hearted entertainment. But experts have also warned of the dangers that deepfakes can pose.
How do deepfakes work? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/4/2021 • 5 minutes, 45 seconds
What is empty nest syndrome?
What is empty nest syndrome? Thanks for asking!
With the summer holiday season drawing to a close, many university students are preparing to leave home for the first time and head to campus accommodation.
While they’re enjoying freshers week, chances are their parents may be finding it unsettling that their child is no longer present at home. That’s even more likely when it’s their last child who’s just left home.
This form of grief is known as empty nest syndrome and it disproportionately affects mothers, who statistically tend to spend more time taking care of children than men, when it comes to heterosexual couples.
Why would that be a cause of sadness though? Shouldn’t parents be happy to see their children moving forwards in life? What can parents do to cope with empty nest syndrome? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is air rage?
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9/2/2021 • 4 minutes
What is air rage?
What is air rage? Thanks for asking!
Many of us have not set foot on an aeroplane for quite some time, and the idea of being crammed alongside other passengers for a long flight is potentially unnerving, what with Covid still circulating.
Of late, a number of amateur clips have gone viral, showing passengers becoming aggressive and sometimes even violent towards fellow fliers or airline staff. Such incidents are examples of air rage, a phenomenon which is currently causing concern.
In recent weeks, the Federal Aviation Administration and Transport Security Administration have both been sounding the alarm. The two US government agencies have reported a spike in clashes between passengers and flight staff.
What’s causing people to lose it on US flights then? How have the authorities responded? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are silent discos?
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9/1/2021 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What are silent discos?
What are silent discos? Thanks for asking!
I don’t know about you but I sure miss partying the night away. In the age of social distancing, most of us can barely remember what it’s like to be part of a crowd dancing together in a club.
While we wait for life to slowly get back to how it was pre-Covid, you might be interested to know about another kind of party. Even your neighbours are unlikely to complain, seeing as there’s no noise. We’re talking about silent discos of course!
Wait, you’ve lost me; how can you have a disco without music? So you can have several different kinds of music at the same party, can you? Doesn’t it get a bit weird with everyone being in their own bubble? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a QR code?
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8/30/2021 • 4 minutes, 1 second
What is the Ebola virus?
What is the Ebola virus? Thanks for asking!
On August 14th, an Ebola virus case was detected in the Ivory Coast, for the first time in over a quarter of a century. The infected person was an 18-year old woman who had travelled over 900 miles by bus from Guinea, a country which had already seen an Ebola outbreak in early 2021, leading to 12 deaths.
The consequences of Ebola returning to the Ivory Coast are significant. The World Health Organisation quickly released a statement saying the outbreak was of “immense concern.” It also sent 5,000 vaccine doses to the country, with the Ivorian health ministry earmarking the first shots for contact cases and frontline healthcare workers. As of August 25th, the Guinean woman was declared cured, having tested negative twice within two days.
Just how serious is the Ebola virus? How do people catch Ebola? When did the virus appear for the first time? Has a vaccine been developed since then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a QR code?
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8/28/2021 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
What is a QR code?
What is a QR code? Thanks for asking!
QR codes have likely never been used more than in the Covid age. They’ve become ubiquitous especially since the NHS started using them for its test and Trace app. These odd black-and-white grids may all look alike, but in fact every QR code is unique.
QR codes, or quick response codes to give them their full name, were first invented by Japanese engineer Masahiro Hara, working at Denso Wave, a subsidiary of Toyota. They were used in factories to track vehicles while they were being assembled, and to scan components.
Of course QR codes really took off in the 21st century, and in particular with the rise of the smartphone.
What are QR codes used for? So how do QR codes actually work? Can we create a QR code? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/26/2021 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
What are the Paralympics?
What are the Paralympics? Thanks for asking!
The Paralympic Games got underway yesterday, with 4,400 competitors in Tokyo, including 227 representing Great Britain. Just like the Olympic Games of last month, the Paralympics are taking place behind closed doors because of the Covid-19 pandemic. The latest edition will see athletes compete at 22 disciplines, including taekwondo and badminton for the first time.
When and how were the Paralympic games created? What are the participation criteria for the Paralympics? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/25/2021 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
What is sapiosexuality?
What is sapiosexuality? Thanks for asking!
What are you most attracted to when looking for someone to date? Social status? A sense of humour? Good looks? Well, those are all positive traits for sure, but for sapioseuxals there’s one quality which trumps all others, and that’s intelligence.
The word comes from the Latin word “sapien”, which means wise. Sapiosexuals don’t fall in love at first sight or even through an emotional spark. Rather they seduce one another through long and complex discussions.
Well it’s nothing new being attracted to someone who’s intelligent, is it? Is it a sexual orientation in its own right? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/23/2021 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
[RERUN] What is OnlyFans?
What is OnlyFans? Thanks for asking!
The platform OnlyFans announced on Thursday 19 August its decision to ban "all sexually explicit content" from October. OnlyFans is a digital content platform which operates on a subscription model. As with social media platforms, when you follow a user, you get access to that person’s content. Since being launched in the UK in 2016, the service has drawn criticism from some quarters. One key difference with other social networks is that it enables content creators to charge fans for access to their images and videos. It’s a whole new way for influencers to make money online.
So it’s a bit like a paid version of Instagram is it? So why are people talking about OnlyFans at the moment? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/22/2021 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What is the Taliban offensive?
What is the Taliban offensive? Thanks for asking!
The Taliban’s offensive against the Afghan government, which began back in May, accelerated dramatically in the last 10 days, leading to the group taking complete control of the country.
As of August 13th, the Islamist military group only held 132 of Afghanistan’s 398 districts, according to BBC research. But three days later, capital city Kabul had fallen and the figure had risen to 391 districts, with just 7 remaining contested.
Meanwhile the UNrefugees.org charity organisation reports that 390,000 Afghans have been displaced since May alone, and 80% of them are women or children. Families have been forced to flee their towns and villages, desperate to save themselves from the Taliban by any means necessary. Footage of chaotic scenes at Kabul airport has emerged.
How did the offensive begin? Who are the Taliban? How did the Taliban advance so quickly? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is sexsomnia?
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8/21/2021 • 5 minutes, 17 seconds
What is sexsomnia?
What is sexsomnia? Thanks for asking!We all know someone who talks in their sleep, or occasionally sleepwalks around the house, perhaps even heading to the kitchen to prepare a nighttime snack. These kinds of episodes aren’t especially rare. But some forms are relatively unknown, one of which is sexsomnia.It’s a form of parasomnia, which means undesirable behaviour which occurs while falling asleep, during sleep, or while waking up. As you may have guessed from the name, sexsomnia consists of sexual activity, ranging from aroused moaning to exhibitionism, masturbation, fondling or even penetration. Just like with sleepwalking, a person with sexsomnia usually has no recollection of their acts the next day.The term was first coined in June 2003, as part of a study led by sleep researcher Dr Coling Shapiro which was published in the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry. The article cited a case which had first been highlighted by a Singapore medical journal in the 1980s, that of a 34 year old married man who masturbated next to his wife on a nightly basis.It must be pretty rare to suffer from sexsomnia, mustn’t it? Does sexsomnia affect certain groups of people more than others? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:What is rape culture? What is Maslow's hierarchy of needs? What is the Covid vaccine pill?A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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8/19/2021 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
What is the IPCC report?
What is the IPCC report? Thanks for asking!
There may still be a minority of doubters out there, but it’s becoming increasingly difficult to deny the existence of climate change and its disastrous consequences.
The summer months of July and August have once again seen extreme and unprecedented weather events, like the North American heat dome we discussed in a recent episode, the fires witnessed in Greece caused partly by a lack of rainfall, or the deadly floods which hit Belgium and Germany, countries usually known for having a mild climate.
Released on August 9th, the latest Assessment Report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change comes as a stark reminder that planet Earth is heating up. It’s known as AR6 for short, reflecting the fact that it’s the sixth such report, with the first dating back to 1990.
Who actually makes up the IPCC? What can we read in the latest edition? Is there any hope? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/18/2021 • 5 minutes, 14 seconds
What is rape culture?
What is rape culture? Thanks for asking!
Society generally sees rape as one of the most heinous crimes that exists. But the sociological theory of rape culture suggests that sexual assault continues to be so common precisely because of certain attitudes on gender and sexuality.
Certain myths and misconceptions are handed down from generation to generation, ending up embedded in cultural norms. The consequences: victim shaming, impunity for perpetrators and encouraging women to sacrifice freedoms to avoid being raped, are drastic
Are you talking about the idea of the patriarchy? How has the situation evolved in recent years? How can we combat rape culture? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Covid vaccine pill?
What is the black fungus epidemic?
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8/16/2021 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What is Maslow’s hierarchy of needs?
What is Maslow’s hierarchy of needs? Thanks for asking!
During the Covid-19 pandemic, governments around the world have taken it on themselves to judge what’s essential or not for their citizens. Think of non-essential shops, businesses, products and leisure activities, for example. Restrictions based on these judgements have evolved constantly during various stages of lockdown or closures.
At an individual level, the Covid era has forced us all to think more deeply about what is truly essential to get by day to day; things we may have taken for granted before. Small comforts or luxuries have had to be sacrificed in many cases.
Back in the 1940s, American psychologist Abraham Maslow came up with a paper entitled “A Theory of Human Motivation”, in which he suggested a hierarchy for human needs.
It’s commonly represented as a five-level pyramid, with physiological needs at the base, being the biological component for survival. Working up from there, you’ve got safety needs, love and belonging needs and then esteem needs. At the top of the pyramid is self-actualisation, which means a person reaching their full potential.
How does the theory relate to human behaviour? What do those critics argue? And in what ways has Covid been an equaliser? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/14/2021 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
What is the Covid vaccine pill?
What is the Covid vaccine pill? Thanks for asking!
Summer 2021 has seen Covid-19 vaccine campaigns making steady progress around the world. As of the start of August, 15% of the global population had been fully vaccinated.
While health authorities in some countries are considering a third dose by injection, Oravax Medical, a subsidiary of Israeli pharmaceutical company Oramed, is hoping to produce a Covid-19 vaccine in pill form.
A pill?! So you’d just swallow it like paracetamol then? How would the vaccine actually work? Is it really that revolutionary of a vaccine method? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is geophony?
What is Earth Overshoot Day?
What is Godwin’s Law?
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8/12/2021 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What is the black fungus epidemic?
What is the black fungus epidemic? Thanks for asking!
Since May 2021, India has been faced with an additional epidemic on top of Covid-19. It’s that of a black fungus, also known as mucormycosis. This rare infection spreads among Covid patients, first of all attacking their faces, in particular the nose, sinuses or eyes, before moving onto the brain and lungs.
According to AFP, India has recorded over 45,000 black fungus cases in the last two months. That’s compared to less than 20 cases per year in pre-Covid times. The real figure may be much higher and the epidemic is causing major concern, especially given the infection has a mortality rate of 50%.
Why has this epidemic taken off in India? What is done to treat those infected with mucormycosis? Is the black fungus a new kind of Covid then? Has it been seen in other countries? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/11/2021 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
What is geophony?
What is geophony? Thanks for asking!
Taking its name from the Greek prefix geo, as in the earth and phony as in sound, geophony could be most simply described as part of Planet Earth’s music. It’s a component of the soundscape that has surrounded us humans ever since we have been present on Earth.
We owe the concept to experts like Canadian composer and environmentalist Raymond Murray Schafer, who popularised the idea of the soundscape, or American and bioacoustician Bernie Krause. This field of study gives us a lot of insight into the state of the planet.
What kinds of sounds are we talking about? What can geophony tell us about the world? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/9/2021 • 3 minutes, 39 seconds
What is Earth Overshoot Day?
What is Earth Overshoot Day? Thanks for asking!
July 29th saw an unwelcome landmark in the calendar as we reached Earth Overshoot Day. It might sound like a celebration, but the reality is a lot more troubling.
Earth Overshoot Day marks the point during a year at which humans have used up all the planet’s resources. To use a budgeting analogy, from that day onwards, we’re effectively living on credit and building up ecological debt.
It’s estimated that we currently use 74% more resources than what the planet can produce. To sustain consumption rates, we would need 1.7 planet Earths. Spoiler alert: we only have one! The consequences on the environment are drastic.
What kind of resources are we talking about? That’s a positive sign at least, isn’t it? Is the calculation foolproof? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/7/2021 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
What is Godwin’s Law?
What is Godwin’s Law? Thanks for asking!
The events of the Holocaust are part of the compulsory curriculum in many countries across the world, especially in Europe. Indeed, it’s pretty rare to come across any adult who hasn’t heard of the unique horrors that took place.
Most people would agree that comparing recent Covid-19 restrictions and vaccination campaigns to Nazi atrocities is at best extreme and misguided; at worst disrespectful and downright offensive. But that’s exactly what some politicians and members of the public have done during recent protests.
This is an example of an adage known as Godwin’s Law, which originated on an internet forum in 1990. It reads as follows: “As an online discussion continues, the probability of a comparison to Hitler or to Nazis approaches one.”
What does that even mean? Who are these people comparing Covid-19 rules to the Holocaust? Is Godwin’s Law still relevant in the 21st century? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/5/2021 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
What are the Puppy Blues?
What are the Puppy Blues? Thanks for asking!
You’ve no doubt already heard of the baby blues, a nice-sounding euphemism for the rather unpleasant postpartum depression. Well, some new pet owners have started talking of puppy blues in the same way, to describe the sadness they sometimes feel after adopting a new furry companion.
The puppy blues might be behind increased animal abandonment rates during the summer. Additionally, Fortune magazine reported a week ago that many Americans are surrendering their pets now the time has come to return to the office.
What is it like having the puppy blues? What can I do to get more confident about being a pet owner? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are blue zones?
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8/4/2021 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
What are blue zones?
What are blue zones? Thanks for asking!
Humans have wondered about the secrets behind longevity since the beginning of time. Well, as it turns out, the world’s five blue zones offer some revealing insight into this mystery. In these regions, people seem to live longer than in the rest of the world. Researchers have sought to understand the unique lifestyles that may be behind this phenomenon.
Let’s go back to the year 2000. Studying the province of Nuoro in Sardinia, Italian professor Gianni Pes and Belgian demographer Michel Poulain discovered to their great surprise that certain villages were home to a high number of people in their 90s or even over a hundred years old. The researchers marked these locations with blue circles which is how the non-scientific blue zone label was coined.
Where are the other four blue zones then? So what are the secrets behind these people’s long lifespans? Diet and exercise have something to do with it too? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/2/2021 • 5 minutes, 13 seconds
What is Niksen?
What is Niksen? Thanks for asking!
Ever had one of those days when you just feel like doing nothing at all? Well, increasingly we as humans are wired to be doing something all the time. We might even feel guilty when not dedicating every last moment of our day to accomplishing tasks from a written or imaginary to-do list. Technology no doubt has a role to play, what with us being connected almost constantly.
Maybe we could all learn a lesson from the Dutch concept of Niksen, which celebrates occasional idleness. It’s formulated as a verb, with the prefix Niks literally meaning “nothing”. We’ve discussed the Danish concept of hygge on Do You Really Know? in the past and Niksen is another Northern European wellness trend that seeks to combat the stress of modern life.
Isn’t that just an excuse for being lazy and unproductive? How does one go about doing nothing then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/31/2021 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
What is Pop-It?
What is Pop-It? Thanks for asking!
If 2017 was the year of the hand spinner in the toy world, 2021 is the year of the Pop-It! Even if the name doesn’t immediately ring a bell, the chances are you’ve seen one of these fidget toys in a picture or video on social media without realising. Manufacturers have had to ramp up production due to the recent surge in popularity.
The Pop-It is basically a silicone-based tray containing colourful half-sphere bubbles. You’d be forgiven for saying it looks pretty unremarkable at first. You can push the bubbles through one by one, which creates a satisfying popping sound. Once you’ve finished popping one side, you can simply flip it over and pop back the other way!
It sounds like a reusable version of bubble wrap! What’s the appeal of Pop-It then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/29/2021 • 3 minutes, 44 seconds
What is the Pegasus Project?
What is the Pegasus Project? Thanks for asking!
Ever since the Snowden case of 2013, the world has gotten used to the idea that states use surveillance to monitor people’s activity. All the same, the fallout from the Pegasus Project revelations of recent weeks has been huge, making it a highly significant cyber espionage scandal.
The initiative was coordinated by French media nonprofit organization Forbidden Stories, who last year obtained access to a list of 50,000 phone numbers targeted by Pegasus spyware. Thanks to the work of a consortium of investigative journalists from all around the world, as well as the support of Amnesty International, the global scale of government surveillance has become apparent.
Where does the name of the project come from? Who do the phone numbers belong to then? What have the repercussions been following the Pegasus Project revelations? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/28/2021 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What are sonic weapons?
What are sonic weapons? Thanks for asking!
In June it emerged that Greek police had acquired two long range acoustic devices, designed to discourage migrants from approaching the country's border with Turkey. At the size of a small TV, the cannons don’t look particularly threatening, but are capable of emitting powerful sound waves as loud as a jet plane.
An LRAD is an example of a sonic weapon, which is an umbrella term used to cover the many different types of acoustic harassment devices. They emit a particularly audible sound in a precise direction, making it very unpleasant for those who get close.
The use of LRADs has been a source of controversy in a number of scenarios. In addition to the pain and disorientation caused, their alert feature has been reported to cause lasting hearing damage.
In what other scenarios are sonic weapons used? Is there anything peaceful protesters can do to protect themselves? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/26/2021 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
What is the I.O.C.?
What is the I.O.C.? Thanks for asking!
Yesterday saw the Tokyo Olympic Games begin with the traditional opening ceremony. For the first time in the event’s history, the Games were delayed by a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. At the International Olympic Committee’s latest Session in Tokyo, president Thomas Bach described the uncertainty facing Games organisers in the last 15 months.“There were sleepless nights. Like everyone else in the world, we did not know, I did not know, what the future would hold.” But the stress isn’t over just yet!
Why not? The Games are underway now so there shouldn’t be anything to worry about, should there? Apart from overseeing the Games, what’s the role of the International Olympic Committee? Does the IOC select host cities for the Olympic Games? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/24/2021 • 4 minutes, 50 seconds
What is the global bike shortage?
What is the global bike shortage? Thanks for asking!
Cycling has enjoyed a huge boom since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Local authorities have increased efforts to prioritise cyclists over drivers, creating new bike lanes and making other investments in this form of transport. However, a shortage of bikes has been affecting the whole world since 2020. This supply chain nightmare is still going on in summer 2021, and may be for some time.
What’s causing the global shortage? How long will I have to wait if I order a bike now? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/22/2021 • 3 minutes, 57 seconds
What is Eswatini?
What is Eswatini? Thanks for asking!
Situated between South Africa and Mozambique in southern Africa, the small landlocked country of Eswatini has a surface area of just 17,000 km2 and a population of 1.3 million. Until 2018, it was known as Swaziland, a name which may be more familiar to you. Then King Mswati III decided to restore the pre-colonial name Eswatini, in recognition of 50 years of independence.
Eswatini also happens to be Africa’s last absolute monarchy. In late May, an anti-establishment protest movement took off. The country’s people are rebelling against their king and demanding a democracy. Shops have been burned and looted by rioting youths, with government buildings also attacked.
What led to the start of the protest movement? How did the authorities respond to the protests? Isn’t Southern Africa usually a calm region? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/21/2021 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
What is mansplaining?
What is mansplaining? Thanks for asking!
Have you ever noticed a man explaining something to a woman in a supremely confident way which suggests he absolutely knows more than her about the subject? Well, there’s a term for that, which is mansplaining.
A recent thread on parenting forum Mumsnet invited women to share their worst examples of mansplaining. Among them were patronising explanations of the offside rule, a gas man telling a qualified engineer to wait for her partner to get home so he could tell him how to fix the boiler rather than her and a male doctor telling a pregnant woman not to worry as C-sections aren’t painful!
God yes, guys like that are the worst! How long has mansplaining been around? Why do men do this then? Are they really all that bad? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/19/2021 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
What is the digital divide?
What is the digital divide? Thanks for asking!
Whether you’re a regular Do You Really Know? listener or just tuning in for the first time, the fact that you’re here probably means you’re not affected by digital illiteracy!
The digitalisation of society as a whole has been accelerating for years now. Covid-19 lockdowns further sped up the process in a way we hadn’t anticipated. People suddenly had no choice but to work remotely, homeschool their kids and do grocery shopping online.
But the health crisis also revealed the isolation which permanently affects people who find themselves on the wrong side of the digital divide. Digital illiteracy is holding back a surprisingly high number of people, even in developing countries.
Does that really still affect anyone in 2021? What are the benefits of digital literacy? What can be done to bridge the digital divide then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/17/2021 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
What is Hungary’s anti-LGBT law?
What is Hungary’s anti-LGBT law? Thanks for asking!
Exactly a week ago, Hungary’s controversial anti-LGBT law came into effect. It contains amendments to several acts and was almost unanimously approved by the country’s parliament three weeks earlier. Despite that fact, the restrictions are causing an outcry in both Hungary and the international community.
What changes have actually come into effect? Have Hungarian laws always been homophobic? What has the international reaction been to this law? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/15/2021 • 5 minutes, 12 seconds
What is space tourism?
What is space tourism? Thanks for asking!
Just over a week ago, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos stepped down from his position as the company’s CEO to focus on other projects. He’ll remain executive chairman at Amazon but now wants to dedicate more time to other projects, including his space tourism company Blue Origin.
Following that surprise announcement, British business magnate Richard Branson also declared his desire to go into space with his company Virgin Galactic. Some have labelled these developments as a new dawn for space tourism.
So who’s earning bragging rights in the billionaires’ space race?How long has space tourism been around? Wait, are you saying one day I’ll be able to jump on a rocket into space? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/14/2021 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
What is Ocean Viking?
What is Ocean Viking? Thanks for asking!
The Ocean Viking humanitarian vessel now has well over 500 survivors on board, located in waters between Italy, Malta and Libya. It has carried out a number of rescue operations in the last week.
According to NGO SOS Mediterranee, who operate Ocean Viking, survivors on board are mainly refugees and migrants. Many are minors, some of whom were attempting the treacherous crossing unaccompanied. Yet governments so far seem in no hurry to come to their aid.
When was Ocean Viking first used as a rescue ship? Have there been other similar rescue operations? What’s the latest for Ocean Viking then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/12/2021 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What is the orgasm gap?
What is the orgasm gap? Thanks for asking!
July 31st is National Orgasm Day in a number of Western countries, including the UK, US, Australia and Canada. Kudos to anyone who already had that holiday noted on their calendar! The annual event’s purpose is to celebrate sexual climax and raise awareness around related issues. Which leads us nicely onto today’s topic: the orgasm gap!
Research has consistently shown that women orgasm less often than men in heterosexual sex. In one American study, 91% of male college students said they usually or always had a orgasm during sex with a partner, compared to just 39% of their female counterparts.
Meanwhile, a more recent 2017 survey from condom manufacturer Durex found that 75% of women couldn’t always achieve an orgasm during sex. Furthermore, more than half of male respondents considered that an orgasm wasn’t necessary for women to enjoy sex!
How do you explain the existence of the orgasm gap? What’s the secret then? And what can be done to make things better? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/10/2021 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
Who is Quentin Tarantino?
Who is Quentin Tarantino? Thanks for asking!
What’s your favourite Tarantino film? Pulp Fiction, Reservoir Dogs, Kill Bill, Inglorious Bastards or perhaps Django Unchained? Every last one of his releases have had a huge impact. They’ve often been big hits among critics and popular opinion. So his recent confirmation of plans to retire following his next film has understandably drawn a lot of attention in the world of cinema.
Tarantino’s cinema is instantly recognisable. His films often have a lively rhythm, as well as a non-linear storyline, with a narrative often split into chapters. They are also characterised by dark humour and scenes of extreme graphic violence, which have been criticised.
Why is Tarantino calling it quits then? What’s Tarantino going to do when he stops making films then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/8/2021 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
What is a heat dome?
What is a heat dome? Thanks for asking!
The Pacific north-west is typically a mild region when it comes to weather. But in late June, Western Canada experienced record temperatures, with the province of British Columbia hit particularly hard. Temperatures are usually around 21° on the Pacific coast, but reached 49.5°C in Lytton, a village around 100 miles to the North-east of Vancouver.
Cities on the other side of the border weren’t spared either, with Portland and Seattle both seeing their respective record temperatures smashed. We’re used to talk of heatwaves, but observers have labelled the latest situation a heat dome.
What’s the science behind these extreme temperatures? How dangerous is the heat dome? To what extent are heat domes due to climate change? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/7/2021 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
What is the Olympic flame?
What is the Olympic flame? Thanks for asking!
As Japan prepares to host the delayed 2020 Olympics, let’s look at one of the Games’ iconic symbols, the Olympic flame, and how it spreads the values of the Olympic movement. It brings a sense of identity to the Games, much like the Olympic rings and its Latin motto Citius Altius Fortius. Throughout the Games, the flame burns inside the Olympic stadium, symbolising the ideals of peace and friendship between people.
The flame is a reminder of the Games of ancient Greek times, when messengers travelled from city to city announcing competition dates, as well as calling for a sacred Olympic truce. This meant all conflicts ceased, allowing athletes and spectators to travel to Olympia. Of course in 2021, the coronavirus hasn’t agreed to any truce, so the Tokyo Games are being organised under strict measures.
Are you saying the history of the Olympics is linked to Ancient Greece? What happens once the flame is lit? What happens if the flame goes out? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/5/2021 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What is the glass ceiling?
What is the glass ceiling? Thanks for asking!
When talking about diversity and inclusion, the glass ceiling refers to an invisible barrier stopping those in minorities from obtaining upper-level workforce opportunities.
The metaphor is most often used when talking about women. They may find their careers stagnating, unable to progress beyond a middle-management role, through no fault of their own. When it comes to senior positions, they are overlooked in favour of men, despite often having equal or better credentials.
Where does the expression come from? How has the situation evolved since the term “glass ceiling” was invented? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/3/2021 • 4 minutes, 1 second
What is the offside rule?
What is the offside rule? Thanks for asking!
Now, now, let’s not get carried away. England may have beaten old rivals Germany on Tuesday evening to seal a place in the Euro 2020 quarter finals, but they still need to win three more matches to lift the trophy at Wembley on July 11th.
In the meantime, let’s talk about one of football’s oldest and yet still most confusing rules: law 11, more commonly known as offside. It’s the first time that video refereeing is being used at a European Championships tournament, and it’s been used to confirm or reverse a number of crucial offside decisions.
Just last Saturday, Austrian forward Marko Arnautovic thought he had given his team the lead against Italy with less than 25 minutes left to play. To his dismay, the goal was ruled out following a VAR check, and Italy would go on to win the match in extra time..
So how does the offside rule work then? How has the offside rule evolved over the years? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Auroville?
What is Straight Edge?
What is Oceanix City?
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7/1/2021 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
What is Auroville?
What is Auroville? Thanks for asking!
Imagine a world without politics, religion or nationality. Well, Auroville is perhaps as close as you’ll come on Planet Earth. The small community, which has been labelled as utopian, was born in South India half a century ago, near to the city of Puducherry.
Also known as the Universal Town, Auroville has close to 3000 inhabitants, from over 50 different countries of origin. It’s alternative and aims to become fully self-sufficient, one day accommodating 50,000, withdrawn from the noisy consumerist society to which us regular people belong.
How was Auroville created? What is life like in Auroville? How does the Auroville economy function? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/30/2021 • 4 minutes, 55 seconds
What is Straight Edge?
What is Straight Edge? Thanks for asking!
The music you’re listening to comes from 1980s American hardcore punk band Minor Threat and it’s called Straight Edge. It might only last 46 seconds, but turned out to be hugely influential.
The song name was adopted by the Straight Edge movement, which is associated with abstinence from alcohol, drugs, animal products and promiscuous sex. Several decades later, this aggressive celebration of sobriety seems to be undergoing a revival.
In the Minor Threat song, lead vocalist Ian MacKaye shouts the words which would go on to become the Straight Edge movement’s motto: “I’ve got better things to do than sit around and smoke dope”. Without intending to, MacKaye was creating a subculture which would affect a whole generation.
Why would you want to give up all those guilty pleasures though? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Tigray Region?
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6/28/2021 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
What is Oceanix City?
What is Oceanix City? Thanks for asking!
It might sound like a theme park or the latest sci-fi comic series, but Oceanix City is actually a futuristic architecture project thought out for the climate refugees of years to come. It’s a mobile floating city, designed to welcome those whose homes are under threat from rising sea levels.
That could apply to a high percentage of the world’s population in the not so distant future, as it’s estimated 90% of coastal cities will be affected by 2050. Furthermore, living near the sea comes with more and more challenges these days. Insurers are hesitant at the idea of covering damages caused by natural disasters.
How did the Oceanix City project get off the ground? What do these floating cities actually look like then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/26/2021 • 4 minutes
What is zythology?
What is zythology? Thanks for asking!
With bars and pubs open for business again, there’s plenty more opportunity for each of us to discover our inner zythologist. The cool-sounding word zythology derives from the Greek zythos, for beer, and logos, for study.
Wait a minute! Are you saying there’s such a thing as the study of beer?
That’s right! The field is also known as beerology, but it’s about far more than just putting away pint after pint of lager. Beer is actually the oldest alcoholic beverage in the world. Evidence of its existence goes back to the 5th millennium BC. So humans have been brewing and drinking beer for a long time.
However, a lot of the knowledge we’ve acquired around beer is much more recent. It’s a complex and sophisticated beverage. In the same way that an oenologist knows everything about wine, zythologists are real beer connoisseurs.
Sounds like a fun job! So what do zythologists actually do? Where can I sign up? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Global Minimum Tax?
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6/24/2021 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
What is the Tigray Region?
What is the Tigray Region? Thanks for asking!
On June 11th, the USA and European Union issued a joint call to end what they described as a “humanitarian nightmare”, occurring in the Tigray Region of Ethiopia. Tigray is situated in the northwest of the country, bordering Eritrea and Sudan.
According to a UN statement at the start of the month, 90% of the war torn region’s population needs emergency food aid. In November 2020, the Ethiopian federal government sent its army from the capital Addis Ababa into Tigray, which was ruled at the time by the Tigray People’s Liberation Front.
The short military offensive was ordered by prime minister Abiy Ahmed. He won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019, after signing a peace treaty with Eritrea, but now it’s war instead which is drawing attention to the country.
How did we get to such a drastic situation? What can you tell me about Ethiopia’s federal system and ethnic groups? What’s the current situation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/23/2021 • 4 minutes, 55 seconds
What is coliving?
What is coliving? Thanks for asking!
Born in the 2000s on the West Coast of the US, coliving is an emerging form of residential community living. Generally speaking, colivers each have their own private space within a shared property. They also share a number of other services. It’s kind of like a hybrid between a hotel and traditional flat-sharing.
In cities like New York, Berlin or Tokyo, you can increasingly find this kind of living arrangement in buildings or large houses. Young workers have caught the bug, as have investors and real estate developers.
So what’s the difference between coliving and traditional flat-sharing? Which groups of people are most likely to try coliving? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/21/2021 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
What is polyandry?
What is polyandry? Thanks for asking!
When we talk about polygamy, we often automatically think of its most common and accepted form, which is known as polygyny. That’s when a man is married to two or more women. But discussions around polyandry, also known as female polygamy, are a lot rarer.
In South Africa, the government published a green paper proposing to reform marriage laws. Polygyny is already allowed, but the country has now been debating the possibility of recognising polyandry for several weeks. The issue is proving divisive, but supporters have called it a step forward for gender equality in the country.
Why change the law now? So why should a man be able to share a married life with several wives, while a woman can’t do the same? That’s double standards, isn’t it? Is polyandry recognised in any countries at the moment? What about throuples? Is that similar to polyandry? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/19/2021 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
What is the Global Minimum Tax?
What is the global minimum tax? Thanks for asking!
At the end of last week, finance ministers from the G7 countries met in London and formally endorsed a global minimum corporate tax rate. Going forward, companies will have to pay a minimum of 15% tax on their profits.
The framework is part of an effort to stop multinationals, and in particular the GAFA companies Google, Amazon, Facebook and Apple, from profit-shifting to tax havens. Tech companies are able to easily move between countries due to the nature of their business.
How will the global minimum tax rule actually work? Why do we need such a tax in the first place? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Smurfette Principle
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6/17/2021 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What is sea snot?
What is sea snot? Thanks for asking!
In the last few weeks, a thick and foul-smelling foam known as mucilage has appeared in the Marmara Sea on Turkey’s northwestern coast. It’s been unofficially dubbed sea snot by observers, which might sound like a name invented on a school playground. But there’s nothing funny about the environmental impact of this outbreak, which is a result of global warming and pollution.
How does this sea snot actually develop? Is this the first time the Marmara Sea has been impacted by sea snot? Do we know what the impact could be? Is there a way to make this sea snot disappear? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/16/2021 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
Who is Bo Burnham?
Who is Bo Burnham? Thanks for asking!
Five years after Bo Burnham’s last comedy special, he released Inside on Netflix on May 30th. To mark the occasion, let’s discuss one of American comedy’s brightest talents.
Many have put Burnham up there among the ranks of the world’s elite comedians. He’s multi-talented, with his shows mixing music, singing and clever jokes.
As a straight white man, he’s supposed to come from a position of privilege without having any problems in life. But he shares his thoughts on life’s simple issues in a unique, self-aware and satirical way.
The Boston Globe has described him as "simultaneously wholesome and disturbing, intimate in a folksy-creepy sort of way”.
What’s so special about the latest release? How did Burnham’s career get started? Where can we see his comedy? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are sensitivity readers?
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What is Friends?
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6/14/2021 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
What is the Smurfette Principle?
What is the Smurfette Principle? Thanks for asking!
Does that ring a bell? How many of you spent hours in front of the Smurfs as children? We’re sure you remember the smiley little girl with blond hair, a white dress and high heels.
In case your memory has faded, in the wonderful world of the Smurfs, Smurfette is created by the evil wizard Gargamel to sow discord! How curious that the role of agitator is reserved for a female character, don’t you think?!
Add to that the fact that the Smurfville population is exclusively male, until the arrival of the lone Smurfette. That’s where the idea of the Smurfette Principle comes from. It’s mainly to do with the overrepresentation of male figures as protagonists in works of fiction, to the detriment of female characters.
How can you base a whole theory on a single cartoon? What’s wrong with that? It’s fiction after all and fiction can write its own rules, can’t it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/12/2021 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
What are sensitivity readers?
What are sensitivity readers? Thanks for asking!
The role of sensitivity reader first appeared in the United States. Authors and publishing houses recruit these $200 per hour beta readers to go over works with a fine-tooth comb before they are released. The purpose is to make sure there are no offensive stereotypes, relating to race, religion or gender for example, or instances of cultural appropriation. numb
The rise to prominence of this area of work is helping to bring on a shift in representations. For example, sensitivity readers may notice the tendency of certain writers to limit black characters to socially devalued roles. They then suggest rewrites which are more respectful of certain characters and less caricatural. In the long run, the aim is that readers, whatever their background, can identify with characters.
Isn’t this akin to censorship, which will stifle literature? Are there any examples of works which have had to be rewritten after a sensitivity reader’s input? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is live shopping?
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What is BookTok?
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6/10/2021 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
What is live shopping?
What is live shopping? Thanks for asking!
Technological disruption and the Covid-19 pandemic have combined to bring on new trends, one of which is live shopping. If the shops are closed or you don’t have time to go there, another alternative exists, in addition to standard online shopping. It’s a new kind of shopping experience, where customers see items on video before deciding to buy them.
What’s so original about live shopping then? Where did live shopping come from? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Friends?
What is BookTok?
What is Tiananmen Square Massacre?
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6/9/2021 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
What is Friends?
What is Friends? Thanks for asking!
On May 27th, all eyes were on HBO Max, who aired a Friends reunion special, 17 years after the sitcom’s 236th and final episode. It was the first time since then that the six main cast members had appeared together publicly to talk about the show.
Friends was hugely popular throughout the ten years it aired, and is still consistently among the most watched shows on online streaming service Netflix. It won many prestigious awards over the years, including six Emmys, six People’s Choice Awards and a Golden Globe.
But, believe it or not, when the sitcom launched, it almost didn’t make it past the pilot episode.
No way! I can’t imagine a world without endless Friends repeats! So what do we learn in the reunion special? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a virus variant region?
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6/7/2021 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
What is BookTok?
What is BookTok? Thanks for asking!
You’ve no doubt already heard of TikTok, the short video app of choice for teens and young adults. Well in the last few weeks a new trend has really taken off, and it’s known as BookTok. The idea is simple: recommend books to your Tiktok followers using the hashtag #BookTok.
It’s really catching on and has even led to the emergence of literature enthusiast communities on the platform. The hashtag has been used millions of times since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Is it a new form of literary review then? What kinds of books are covered? So is there such a thing as Booktokers now then? Has the trend been having any other positive effects? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/5/2021 • 5 minutes, 1 second
What is the Tiananmen Square Massacre?
What is the Tiananmen Square Massacre? Thanks for asking!
32 years ago today, Tiananmen Square in the heart of Beijing, saw unprecedented student protests. As night fell on June 3rd 1989, the Chinese military entered the square with a number of tanks and opened fire on the unarmed crowd.
The number of deaths is estimated between 1,000 and 2,000, in what became known internationally as the Tiananmen Square Massacre. Thus ended seven weeks worth of pro-democracy and anti-corruption protests.
One particular image is shared every time the month of June comes around. It’s that of a lone man blocking the path of the Chinese army tanks. It really highlights the imbalance of force between the military and the peaceful student protesters. This anonymous man became a symbol of anti-violence and the struggle for freedom throughout the world. The whole world was shocked and the Chinese government was universally condemned.
How did we get to such a drastic situation? Are you saying the massacre put a stop to a series of social movements? Why is this period of Chinese history so poorly known? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/3/2021 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
What is a virus variant region?
What is a virus variant region? Thanks for asking!
The Indian variant known as B.1.617 is causing concern in Europe, particularly due to a steep rise in infections since early May. It recently spread into the United Kingdom, where it is currently taking over as the dominant variant. As a result, Germany reclassified the UK as a virus variant region on May 23rd.
Travel between the UK and Germany is therefore strictly limited for the time being, meaning only German citizens or residents are allowed to enter the country. Even then, whether arriving by train, car or plane, they are also subject to a two week isolation period, which can’t be shortened even by testing negative.
For now, four main variants are still circulating in Europe: the Indian, South African, Brazilian and British variants. With summer just around the corner, the situation is being monitored closely as these variants are more contagious and virulent.
I thought the UK’s health situation was going much better! Is Germany the only country to have put in place restrictions against visitors from the UK?Could the Indian variant have an impact on summer holiday plans in Europe? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/2/2021 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What are zombie fires?
What are zombie fires? Thanks for asking!
Believe it or not, some fires are able to smolder for months underneath snow, even when their flames have been extinguished above ground.
Researchers and forest rangers have been aware of the existence of these zombie fires in the Arctic Circle for many years now. But a study published in Nature magazine on May 19th revealed the full extent of the issue. It turns out the threat they pose to boreal forests and the climate as a whole is greater than we previously knew.
How can a fire resist cold and ice? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/31/2021 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
What are sleep streams?
What are sleep streams? Thanks for asking!
How do you like the idea of going to sleep and waking up richer? Sounds pretty sweet, huh? Well believe it or not, sleep streams have actually become a big trend among influencers on streaming platform Twitch. They film themselves asleep, set challenges and go through sleep marathons in interactive formats. Meanwhile, viewers try to annoy the streamer or wake them up by playing videos and sending text-to-speech messages. That’s right, sleep streams are the latest weird way of making money online!
How did this become a thing? What’s the point of staring into a laptop or smartphone screen watching someone sleep? And even worse, paying for it?! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are molecular scissors?
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5/29/2021 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What are molecular scissors?
What are molecular scissors? Thanks for asking!
When we think about genetically-edited plants, animals and even humans, we might wonder whether it’s the stuff of dreams or nightmares. But it’s close to reality, thanks to a gene editing technique, Crispr-Cas9, also known as molecular scissors. There are a number of potential health and environmental benefits.The concept made headlines for the first time in late 2018. Chinese researcher He Jiankui took to Youtube to announce the birth of genetically-edited twin girls who were supposedly immune to HIV due to the use of molecular scissors. The international scientific community was outraged at He’s failure to follow safety protocols and the researcher ended up in prison. However, the amount of research on molecular scissors has been on the rise for several years now. The CRISPR CAS 9 technique was developed in 2012 by two researchers: Jennifer Doudna from the USA and Emmanuelle Charpentier from France. It ended up being so revolutionary that the pair won the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 2020.
What’s so revolutionary about molecular scissors? What’s the point of it all? Are we talking about GMOs? Aren’t those dangerous? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the fertility cliff?
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5/27/2021 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What is the fertility cliff?
What is the fertility cliff? Thanks for asking!
The ability of a woman to get pregnant and give birth doesn’t last forever. 35 has traditionally been seen as a fertility cliff, a kind of cut-off point after which it becomes much more difficult to have a child. Women in their early 30s and even late 20s often feel under pressure from their families or society, like they are losing a race against their biological clock. But recent research findings have led many to call the reasoning behind this threshold into question.
So where did the idea of 35 being a fertility cliff come from? What’s the latest information in this area then? What conclusions should we draw from all this? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is phantosmia?
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What is Bollywood?
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5/26/2021 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What is phantosmia?
What is phantosmia? Thanks for asking!
The symptoms and after-effects of Covid-19 vary hugely between people and can be very incapacitating. We’ve already discussed anosmia, the loss of the sense of smell, in a past episode. But some people also report strange and unpleasant odours, that no-one else around can smell. The medical term for these olfactory hallucinations is phantosmia, coming from the Greek “phanto” for ghost and “osmia” for smell. That’s right, hallucinations aren’t always visual!
Does that mean I could mistake one smell for another? Can phantosmia be linked to conditions other than Covid-19? And is it treatable? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Bollywood?
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5/23/2021 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What is the urban exodus?
What is the urban exodus? Thanks for asking!
The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the lives of almost everyone around the globe. City dwellers have had to adapt their daily lives to a new organisation and work-life balance. Many have chosen to leave their urban homes behind in favour of a calmer life in the suburbs or countryside. This has been described as an urban exodus, although there is some debate as to what extent this will last when the pandemic ends.
Are we talking about a Moses and the Israelites kind of mass exodus? Should we expect the urban exodus to last in the long run? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Bollywood?
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What is Resident Evil?
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5/22/2021 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
What is Bollywood?
What is Bollywood? Thanks for asking!
If you’re a Westerner, you’ve almost certainly heard of Bollywood, but there’s also a decent chance you’ve never actually watched a Bollywood film! If Hollywood is the stronghold of American cinema, Bollywood is an even more generic term used to describe the Hindi-language film industry in India, in particular the city of Mumbai.
The label is a portmanteau of Bombay, Mumbai’s former name, and Hollywood. There is debate about who exactly coined the term, which emerged in the 1970s. Some records suggest it was first used by a gossip column in the Indian magazine Cineblitz.
You should be warned that the term is relatively rarely used in India. Many see it as derogatory or patronising, having been adopted as a blanket term by Westerners. It also excludes films produced in other Indian languages like Tamil or Bengali.
So what exactly does a Bollywood film look like then? Is it as popular as American cinema? What are the latest trends in Bollywood cinema? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Doomsday Glacier?
What is Resident Evil?
What is the andropause?
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5/20/2021 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is the Doomsday Glacier?
What is the Doomsday Glacier? Thanks for asking!
The Thwaites Glacier in West Antarctica is melting rapidly and risks breaking up completely. For nearly a quarter of a century, climate scientists have been observing it closely and have nicknamed it the Doomsday Glacier due to its instability and potential impact on the future of the planet. Thwaites Glacier is more than 1km deep and has a surface area of 74,000 m2, larger than all of England. It’s more than 1,000 miles away from the closest research base, making it remote even for Antarctica.
The speed at which the glacier is melting has increased due to currents of warm water flowing underneath it, wearing away at its base. A study published last month by Gothenburg University researchers showed that the quantity of warm water, measured for the first time using a robotic unmanned submarine, was far higher than previously thought.
How long ago did the glacier start melting? What will happen if the glacier disappears? I bet it isn’t the only glacier in the world that’s causing concern... In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Resident Evil?
What is the andropause?
What is parcopresis?
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5/19/2021 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
What is Resident Evil?
What is Resident Evil? Thanks for asking!
May 7th saw the release of Resident Evil: Village; the eighth instalment in one of video gaming’s most epic series. Originally released under the name Biohazard in Japan, Resident Evil was far from being the first horror video game in history, but it’s definitely become the most influential over the years.
How did Resident Evil achieve such success? What was so unique about the first edition? Has Resident Evil been as consistent since its early days? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is captology?
What is broken heart syndrome?
What are cookies?
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5/17/2021 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What is the andropause?
What is the andropause? Thanks for asking!
We’ve all heard of the menopause which occurs in women in middle age. But there is much less awareness around changes in male sex hormones which are linked to ageing and have been described as the andropause.The word comes from the Greek “andros”, meaning man, and “pausis”, meaning end. It generally arrives very gradually and is characterised by low testosterone levels in men.
So is the andropause a myth or reality? And what are its symptoms? What should a man do if he feels like he is undergoing the andropause? Could it be compared to the menopause in women then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/15/2021 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
What is parcopresis?
What is parcopresis? Thanks for asking!
Ever needed to go to the loo but held it in, due to a lack of privacy, or fear of noise and smells? The social taboo around pooping is known as parcopresis or shy bowel syndrome. It’s an anxiety disorder which can have significant health consequences as well as interfering with a person’s daily routine. Public toilets have been closed for much of the last year, due to Covid lockdowns and restrictions. This has had an impact on bathroom habits for all of us. Without access to outdoor bathrooms, nearly half of us have experienced difficulty in relieving ourselves over the last twelve months.
Well no-one wants to be heard pooping at their partner’s place or in the office do they? Who is most affected by parcopresis then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is broken heart syndrome?
What are cookies?
What is the Chernobyl exclusion zone?
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5/13/2021 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What is captology?
What is captology? Thanks for asking!
Getting internet users’ attention and influencing their online behaviour is a massive priority for Big Tech companies in this day and age. Behind their practices is captology, a term invented in 1996 by American researcher BJ Fogg. It might make you think of the word “capture” at first, but it actually comes from the initials of “Computers As Persuasive Technologies”. The idea was to study the link between digital tool design and the resulting impact on individuals’ behaviour.
Captology has often been cited as a source of inspiration for Silicon Valley entrepreneurs. To such an extent that its definition has evolved to describe all kinds of techniques used by internet giants to grab users’ attention, and make them addicted.
Coronavirus lockdowns haven’t helped and the stats are there to back it up. A global study by analytics company App Annie found the average daily time spent using a smartphone in 2020 was 4 hours and 10 minutes.
That’s crazy! So what are the secrets behind captology then? Is captology dangerous then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is broken heart syndrome?
What are cookies?
What is the Chernobyl exclusion zone?
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5/12/2021 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
What is broken heart syndrome?
What is broken heart syndrome? Thanks for asking!
The idea of a broken heart may make you think of a cartoon, an emoji or a bad break-up from your past. But broken heart syndrome is a real physical condition, which is also known as Tako-tsubo.
Is the name Japanese because that’s where the first case was recorded? Is it like the heart having a burnout basically?! How can we recognise the symptoms?
Can broken heart syndrome affect anyone? How can we avoid becoming a victim of Takotsubo in the current situation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Chernobyl exclusion zone?
What is the Escazu Agreement?
What is the insider-outsider theory?
A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.
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5/10/2021 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
What are cookies?
What are cookies? Thanks for asking!
Most of us probably associate them with annoying pop-ups, but HTTP cookies actually do a lot of good for our web browsing experience too. Cookies are small pieces of data which are stored on our computers as soon as we visit a website. There are many kinds, and they are usually totally inoffensive, but some can end up being rather intrusive, causing privacy concerns and leaving a bittersweet aftertaste!
Tell me more about where cookies come from... In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Chernobyl exclusion zone?
What is the Escazu Agreement?
What is the insider-outsider theory?
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5/8/2021 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
What is the Chernobyl exclusion zone?
What is the Chernobyl exclusion zone? Thanks for asking!
It’s just over 35 years since the worst nuclear disaster in history. On April 26th 1986, reactor number 4 at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant exploded. Following the accident, an exclusion zone of around 1,000m2 was established by the Soviet army.
It covers the areas most affected by radioactive contamination, including the city Prypiat situated 2 miles away. Built in the 1970s to house workers from the nuclear plant, it was seen as a model Soviet metropolis, but became a ghost town when its 50,000 inhabitants were evacuated.
Does the exclusion zone still exist today? So can humans go inside the Chernobyl exclusion zone nowadays? What about temporary visits? Will people be able to live in Chernobyl again one day? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the insider-outsider theory?
What is stalkerware?
Who is Alexei Navalny?
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5/6/2021 • 5 minutes, 10 seconds
What is the Escazu Agreement?
What is the Escazu Agreement? Thanks for asking!
Ratified on April 22nd 2021, the Escazu Agreement is a historic treaty set to affect one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. It’s Latin America’s first ever environmental treaty, and the first in the world specifically designed to protect defenders of the environment. It was first signed by 24 countries, then ratified by 12 national governments so far, with the notable exceptions of Chile, Colombia and Brazil.
Where does the name come from? What’s so historic about the Escazu Agreement then? What is expected with the arrival of the Escazu agreement? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the insider-outsider theory?
What is stalkerware?
Who is Alexei Navalny?
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5/5/2021 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
What is the insider-outsider theory?
What is the insider-outsider theory? Thanks for asking!
The insider-outsider theory is a New Keynesian economic model which developed in the 1980s, explaining certain disparities in the job market. Insiders are those who already have a job in a company, most of the time a permanent contract and having undergone expensive training. Meanwhile, outsiders are those with unstable jobs or unemployed. The theory considers whether, in a period of wide unemployment, companies would be better off replacing their insiders with outsiders, who would be likely to accept a lower salary. On the other hand, the resources needed to replace insiders can quickly add up. Think of severance packages, hiring processes and training for example. These labour turnover costs often end up being more expensive than the money saved by paying a lower salary.So it’s not really in a company’s best interests to fire its insiders.
Does that mean the insiders are in a position of strength then? Is there any hope for the outsiders then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who is Alexei Navalny?
What is chemsex?
What are Covid toes?
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5/3/2021 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What is stalkerware?
What is stalkerware? Thanks for asking!
We’ve probably all jokingly referred to social media stalking when looking at an ex’s profile or checking out what a future colleague looks like. But online stalking can reach serious levels, particularly through the use of monitoring stalkerware. These apps are installed on smartphones, making use of functions like key logging, automated screenshots and GPS monitoring, while the owner is blissfully unaware that their privacy is being violated.
Who even does that - the CIA?! How common is stalkerware use then? What should I do if I suspect someone of installing stalkerware on my device? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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Who is Alexei Navalny?
What is chemsex?
What are Covid toes?
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5/1/2021 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
Who is Alexei Navalny?
Who is Alexei Navalny? Thanks for asking!
In late March 2021, Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny began a hunger strike in his prison cell. A few weeks later he was transferred to a prison hospital, with his allies declaring he was “close to dying”.
Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Moscow, St Petersburg and over 40 other cities. Police arrested over 1700 people. At the same time, UN human rights experts called for Navalny to be evacuated from the country. They said his life was in “serious danger” due to harsh prison conditions and inadequate medical care.
What can you tell me about Navalny’s background? What’s happened to Navalny since the Novichok poisoning? Will international pressure have any impact? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are Covid toes?
What is Helium-3?
What were the Troubles ?
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4/29/2021 • 5 minutes, 52 seconds
What is chemsex?
What is chemsex? Thanks for asking!
Chemsex is the practice of taking synthetic drugs or psychoactive products to spice up sexual activity. Participants are predominantly gay men, who claim these illegal drugs remove inhibitions, while also boosting performance and pleasure. Chemsex often involves unprotected and anonymous sex between multiple partners. Parties can last for several consecutive days!
Wow, that’s the first I’ve heard of this - is it a new trend? What kind of drugs are we talking about exactly? Are the drugs really that dangerous, if you know the people you’re with? How can someone beat a chemsex addiction? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are Covid toes?
What is Helium-3?
What were the Troubles ?
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4/28/2021 • 5 minutes, 2 seconds
What are Covid toes?
What are Covid toes? Thanks for asking!
So-called Covid toes are a symptom observed by doctors since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, consisting of swollen, purplish toes. For a while we suspected it to be a symptom of virus infection, but as it turns out, it may be quite the opposite.
As early as April 2020, dermatologists noticed a curious trend. Numerous patients were coming for appointments as their toes were swollen and had changed colour. These skin eruptions looked a lot like chilblains.
At the time, the International League of Dermatological Societies stated that the symptom went away on its own most of the time, but that it could last several months.
So what’s the explanation for this odd symptom then? Could it be due to lockdown measures and people having a sedentary lifestyle? Can there really be a link between toes and immunity?! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What were the Troubles ?
What is Operation London Bridge?
What is a lateral flow test?
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4/26/2021 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
What is Helium-3?
What is Helium-3? Thanks for asking!
Helium-3 is a helium isotope which contains two protons and a neutron. It dates back to the earliest days of the universe and formed in the mantle of planet Earth. However, humans only discovered it in 1934.
It is a pretty unique gas, with rare and valuable properties. For example, it can reduce temperatures to nearly absolute zero, which could be useful in cryogenics or medical imaging. Most of all, it’s known for producing enormous quantities of energy. Estimates vary, but it’s been suggested that just a few hundred tons of Helium-3 would be enough to meet the entire planet’s energy needs for a whole year.
Great, could Helium-3 be a potential energy source of the future then? Could we really bring back Helium-3 from the moon? Is anyone trying to mine Helium-3 right now? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What were the Troubles ?
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What is a lateral flow test?
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4/24/2021 • 5 minutes, 25 seconds
What were the Troubles?
What were the Troubles? Thanks for asking!
It’s been 23 years since the Good Friday peace agreement put an end to The Troubles, a decades-long period of violence which saw 3,500 people die. Nevertheless, in recent weeks riots broke out in loyalist areas of Northern Ireland’s major cities, including Derry and Belfast. Gangs of youths attacked police, injuring scores of officers in the worst violence the country has seen for years.
What’s caused tensions to rise again in Northern Ireland? How did the Troubles begin? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Operation London Bridge?
What is a lateral flow test?
What is vegetarianism?
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4/22/2021 • 5 minutes, 34 seconds
What is Operation London Bridge?
What is Operation London Bridge? Thanks for asking!
The recent passing of Prince Philip at the age of 99 has served as a reminder that even Her Majesty the Queen won’t be around forever. Queen Elizabeth II has reigned over the United Kingdom and Commonwealth since February 6th 1952, longer than any other British monarch.
Believe it or not, extensive protocol is already in place for the day when the Queen passes away. Plans known as Operation London Bridge were first made in the 1960s and are updated regularly.
Wow - That’s going to be the end of an era! Who will be the first to hear the news? How quickly will the rest of us find out? What are the practical arrangements for Operation London Bridge? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a lateral flow test?
What is vegetarianism?
What are LGBT-free zones?
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4/21/2021 • 5 minutes, 21 seconds
What is a lateral flow test?
What is a lateral flow test? Thanks for asking!
The number of new Covid-19 cases in the UK continues to drop as its vaccination campaign advances. The economy is beginning to reopen with lockdown measures gradually easing.
But it’s not all roses unfortunately. The South African variant of concern, which may be vaccine-resistant to some extent, has arrived in the country. The government is now expanding its testing programme to provide everyone in England with the opportunity to take two free lateral flow tests per week.
These tests can be carried out under supervision at designated sites, or at home. The aim is to quickly detect people who have Covid-19 without displaying any symptoms. Believe it or not, that occurs around a third of the time when someone is infected with Covid-19.
Despite being cheap and rapid, the system is not without its risks. People are sometimes forced to self-isolate unnecessarily when false positives occur and the accuracy of testing data is still unclear.
If I want to do a lateral flow test, do I just go to the pharmacy and ask for a kit like with a pregnancy test?
You can do that if you wish, and the technology behind lateral flow tests has actually been compared to that used for pregnancy tests!
But there are several other ways of obtaining the tests, and you can do so without even leaving the comfort of your home. You can order them online or by phone, or get tests from your employer, if you’re not working from home.
Lateral flow tests, or LFTs for short, contain antibodies which detect coronavirus proteins by binding to them. If administering the test yourself, you’ll need to take a swab from your throat or nose and mix it with an extraction fluid.
Like a pregnancy test, you drip the solution onto a strip of test paper. Within 30 minutes you should have a result which will be either positive, negative or inconclusive. It’s recommended to take a lateral flow test twice a week and report the results on the same day.
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4/19/2021 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
What is vegetarianism?
What is vegetarianism? Thanks for asking!
We’ve probably all eaten a meat-free dish at some point over the last few months, but that on its own doesn’t necessarily make a person veggie. Nevertheless, vegetarianism is becoming more and more popular among young people. It’s often about much more than simply taking meat out of your diet. A lot of vegetarians see it as a form of activism which can help protect the environment and animal welfare.
Are there enough vegetarians out there to really have an impact? Do people mainly go vegetarian for environmental reasons then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What are LGBT-free zones?
What are NFTs?
What is pansexuality?
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4/17/2021 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What are LGBT-free zones?
What are LGBT-free zones? Thanks for asking!
Last month, the European Parliament declared the E.U. to be an LGBTIQ Freedom zone. That was in reaction to the increasing number of LGBT-free zones in Poland, which have been making headlines for the last two years. Poland has gained a reputation as the worst EU country for LGBT rights.
If we look back to early 2019, the liberal mayor of Warsaw had announced plans to integrate LGBT issues into the curriculum of the city’s schools. This caused anger among conservative politicians and media. In March 2019, the first “LGBT ideology-free zone” was declared in the rural town of Swidnik. Dozens of regions, towns and villages followed suit in the ensuing months, especially in the strongly Catholic South-East and East of Poland.
Is there even such a thing as an LGBT ideology? What has the reaction been among the LGBT community in Poland? So the rest of Europe was outraged, but what did it actually do? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is pansexuality?
What is soft power?
What is Covax?
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4/15/2021 • 5 minutes, 7 seconds
What are NFTs?
What are NFTs? Thanks for asking!
It’s one of the latest crazes in the world of blockchain. Non-fungible tokens are digital certificates of ownership, which state who owns a piece of virtual crypto-art. That’s right, you can now buy collectible digital art, like memes, GIFs, videos and even tweets, all thanks to NFTs.
NFTs emerged in 2017, as part of the Ethereum cryptocurrency blockchain. You’ve most likely heard of bitcoin and blockchain before. Well, NFTs are based on the same technology.
So are NFTs cryptocurrency then? What are the advantages of using the blockchain? Why would anyone spend millions on something that can be copied endlessly and can’t even be hung up on their wall? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is pansexuality?
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4/14/2021 • 5 minutes
What is pansexuality?
What is pansexuality? Thanks for asking!
More and more celebrities are talking about their sexuality. Just two weeks ago, Demi Lovato talked about being pansexual during an interview with Joe Rogan. According to Kim Rice, who wrote the Encyclopedia of Human Sexuality in 2015, pansexuality can be defined as sexual, emotional, romantic or spiritual attraction for other people, regardless of their biological sex, gender identity or sexual orientation.
This sexual orientation is still pretty unknown, but Demi Lovato is far from being the only public figure to have claimed it. Others include Cara Delevingne and Miley Cyrus.
Isn’t that the same thing as being bisexual? Is the term pansexual a little more inclusive? But why do some people feel this need to identify as something and find a name for it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Covax?
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4/12/2021 • 4 minutes, 45 seconds
What is soft power?
What is soft power? Thanks for asking!
There was a time where the only way to impose power was through violence and war. But for a few decades now, the power of a country or group is also affected by its soft power. By that we mean its ability to influence other parts of the world by spreading its cultural model.
Soft power can be held by states, but also by international institutions, NGOs, businesses or citizen movements. It’s actually nothing new. Looking back in history, you can find examples of soft power in the times of ancient Greece or the British Empire. But only in 1990 was the theory of soft power developed by international relations professor Joseph Nye.
Nye argued that the rise of globalisation meant using military force, or hard power, alone was no longer an option. His country, the United States, had grasped that and was using a new and highly effective form of power, which depended on its ability to attract and persuade others, thus shaping their preferences.
What does soft power look like? Are the Americans the kings of soft power in that case? What countries are on the first place of soft power? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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4/10/2021 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
What is Covax?
What is Covax? Thanks for asking!
Described as the “biggest worldwide rollout of vaccines in the history of humanity”. the Covax scheme is part of the international battle against Covid-19, with the aim of ensuring people all around the world have access to vaccines, especially in poorer countries. This global initiative is led by the World Health Organisation, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness, with the support of Unicef and other international NGOs.
190 countries are participating, divided between 98 higher-income and 92 low- and middle-income economies. In the long term, Covax should help vaccinate 20% of the population in countries belonging to the latter group.
Which countries are due to benefit from Covax then? So is it mainly African countries who are set to benefit then? Who is donating all the Covax vaccine doses? What challenges does the Covax initiative face? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is a ghost kitchen?
What is the precautionary principle?
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4/8/2021 • 5 minutes, 7 seconds
What is the Suez Canal?
What is the Suez Canal? Thanks for asking!
On March 23rd, the Ever Given container ship ran aground in the Suez Canal, blocking traffic in both directions. Such a blockage had never occurred before and it took six days for salvage crews to free the 220,000-ton cargo ship.
Over 400 ships were forced to queue, waiting for Ever Given to be moved. Shipping data suggested the obstruction was holding up $9.6M worth of goods each day. Insurer Allianz estimated that each additional day contributed to a further $6bn - $10bn loss for world trade.
Wow, that sure is one important waterway! When was the Suez Canal built? Who does the canal actually belong to? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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4/7/2021 • 5 minutes, 22 seconds
What is a ghost kitchen?
What is a ghost kitchen? Thanks for asking!
For many of us, it’s been a long time since we last set foot in a pub or restaurant. We’ve become more accustomed than ever before to navigating our favourite food delivery apps until we find something that catches our fancy. But do we actually know how and where our meals are prepared?
Ghost kitchens, or dark kitchens as they are also known, have really taken off in the last two years. Their success has come hand-in-hand with that of online delivery platforms, and the Covid-19 pandemic has only served to speed up the process. The idea is simple: a kind of virtual restaurant with no seating, no diners and no waiters. That’s right, ghost kitchens operate only to serve online customers.
Uber Eats claims to now have 10,000 such providers on its US platform, compared to just 3,000 in 2019.
Don’t they need a restaurant in order to prepare delivery food? So are ghost kitchens going to kill off traditional restaurants? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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4/5/2021 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
What is the precautionary principle?
What is the precautionary principle? Thanks for asking!
While over 50% of people in the UK have received at least one coronavirus vaccine dose, the EU is lagging far behind at 16%. Just two days ago, the World Health Organisation described the rollout in Europe as being “unacceptably slow”. The delays are down to several factors, one of which is the precautionary principle.
In mid-March, 18 countries suspended use of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine, including some of the EU’s biggest member states like Spain, Germany and France. They cited the precautionary principle as justification. This followed reports of blood clots in some patients who had received a dose of the vaccine.
What’s the link between the vaccine and the precautionary principle then? Couldn’t you argue the EU leaders were right to exercise caution? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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4/3/2021 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
What is poverty porn?
What is poverty porn? Thanks for asking!
Poverty porn is a provocative term of criticism which looks at how poor people and their living situations are portrayed in films, on television or on social media.
The term became more widespread after the release of Slumdog Millionaire in the late 2000s. The Oscar-winning film tells the story of a young boy who grew up in the slums of Mumbai and is close to winning ₹20 million on a TV quiz show.
Despite the film’s massive success, there were debates about whether it was poverty porn. Some suggested director Danny Boyle created it for a white audience looking for images of deprivation in a faraway setting.
What’s the link with porn then? But is it really such a bad thing? Can you have poverty porn in Western countries too? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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4/1/2021 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
What is Stop Asian Hate?
What is Stop Asian Hate? Thanks for asking!
On March 16th, a series of shootings in Atlanta caused eight deaths. The murders took place at three different spas, and six of the deceased victims were Asian women.
The 21-year-old perpetrator claims to have been motivated by shame at his own sexual addiction, rather than specifically targeting the Asian community. But some believe the killings should be classed as hate crimes. The Stop Asian Hate hashtag has been trending on social media ever since.
On the day of the shootings, social media analytics platform Visitbrain recorded 4 million tweets using the hashtag. It was notably shared by the Black Lives Matter movement, who released an anti-white supremacy statement.
Is Stop Asian Hate a recent development? Do we have any statistics on the crimes being carried out? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/31/2021 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
Who is Ousmane Sonko?
Who is Ousmane Sonko? Thanks for asking!
Since early March, Senegal has seen a series of violent protests, a rare event in a country known for its political stability. Behind it all is the arrest of one man - Ousmane Sonko. The 46 year old MP is the main opponent of President Macky Sall and came third in 2019’s presidential election.
Sonko is the leader of the PASTEF political party, and identifies as an anti-establishment candidate. He’s particularly popular among Senegal’s youth, and it’s worth noting half the country’s population is under the age of 20.
Why was Sonko arrested? What are the Senegalese youth demanding? What’s happened to Ousmane Sonko in the meantime? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/29/2021 • 3 minutes, 52 seconds
What is Generation Covid?
What is Generation Covid? Thanks for asking!
In social sciences, a generation refers to a group of the population whose members are around the same age and have hence lived through the same era. Think the baby boomers, Generation X, Millennials… and now Generation Covid!
While they may be significantly less at risk of serious illness from Covid-19, young people are bearing the brunt of the pandemic’s economic consequences. Their development into adulthood is increasingly being affected, and it’s taking a mental toll.
So who exactly do we count as part of Generation Covid? What about students and young adults? How have they been affected? Is there any cause for optimism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/27/2021 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What are HFCs?
What are HFCs? Thanks for asking!
Fridges, freezers and air conditioning. In cooling our individual homes, humans are heating up our collective home - planet earth. That’s partly down to hydrofluorocarbons, or HFCs for short. These industrial chemicals are mainly used for cooling and refrigeration, but they generate a huge amount of pollution.
The adoption of HFCs is relatively recent as until the 1980s we used chlorofluorocarbons as refrigerants. Scientists then realised these greenhouse gases were contributing to ozone layer depletion, with a global warming potential of around 10,000. That’s a multiple of the heat that would be absorbed by the same mass of carbon dioxide. So in 1987, states signed the Montreal Protocol, which would see the production of CFCs drastically reduced. To be replaced by....
HFCs? What is that? Is it good for the environment? How are we going to produce refrigerants without CFCs or HFCs? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/25/2021 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
What is eye yoga?
What is eye yoga? Thanks for asking!
In the last 12 months, we’ve all spent more time at home than we expected. As a result, our use of computers or smartphones has increased to the point where many of us spend almost all day gazing into a screen.
This can lead to eye strain and dry eyes, as well as other disorders or diseases. OK, so in this day and age it’s difficult to totally go without all these digital tools which are part of our daily lives. But there are some tips to prevent or slow vision loss.
Eye yoga allows us to train our eye muscles. It’s a natural method which comes from Indian medicine. We often forget to exercise our eyes, which function thanks to muscles. And muscles need to be trained!
This sounds like it must be the latest fad! Is it actually effective? What are the exercises to stimulate eyes? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/24/2021 • 4 minutes
What is a test concert?
What is a test concert? Thanks for asking!
Living through a pandemic has seen many of our favourite pastimes turn from harmless fun to high-risk activity! Think of going for a beer with your colleagues after work, taking your grandma to the cinema or dancing the night away in a club for example.
The whole culture sector has suffered and the music business is among the industries which have been affected the most. Concerts have been at a halt for some time now but we can finally see light at the end of the tunnel. With vaccination campaigns now underway in many countries, there’s hope performing arts will return in the coming months. Test concerts are being arranged in some places to see the impact of allowing limited crowds to gather.
That sounds exciting, but still risky! How do we know these test concerts won’t turn into super-spreader events? having avoided COVID for this long, is it really worth the risk? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/22/2021 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What is euthanasia?
What is euthanasia? Thanks for asking!
Euthanasia is the act of intentionally ending a person’s life in order to relieve their suffering. The practice is often confused with assisted suicide but there is a key difference. When it comes to euthanasia, medical practictioners carry out the final deed, whereas with assisted suicide it’s the patient who commits the act.
Laws on euthanasia and assisted suicide vary across the world, and it’s a complex ethical subject. The general trend in the Western world is that people are becoming more open to the idea of legal euthanasia. It’s being debated in a number of places.
In the countries where euthanasia is legal, how is it carried out? So where is euthanasia actually allowed then? What are some of the main arguments for and against euthanasia? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/20/2021 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
What is the baby bust?
What is the baby bust? Thanks for asking!
You’ve almost certainly heard of the baby boom, which saw birth rates soar in many countries following the end of the Second World War. Well, we’re currently experiencing the opposite of that thanks in part to the Covid-19 pandemic. Many observers have labelled this a baby bust.
Are you saying there’s been a significant drop in the number of births? What are the likely consequences of this baby bust? Are governments taking action to stop this trend? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/18/2021 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
What is period poverty?
What is period poverty? Thanks for asking!
Menstrual hygiene products are an essential expense, but many women on low incomes find that the cost is out of their reach. This is known as period poverty and it affects more people than you might think, even in developed countries. A survey in the UK found that over 40% of 14-21 year olds had used items like socks, tissues or paper as a makeshift replacement for sanitary products.
Activists have been campaigning for a number of years now to bring about change. They see period poverty as a form of injustice and want to put an end to it once and for all.
Surely tampons and sanitary pads don’t cost that much, do they? Why are periods such a taboo subject? Have these campaigns led to any concrete change so far? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/17/2021 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
What is newspeak?
What is newspeak? Thanks for asking!
Lockdown, patient zero, social distancing and PCR tests - the last year has seen the emergence of many new terms due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Some have labelled this vocabulary Coronaspeak. At Do You Really Know, we’ve covered several such topics to decipher their meaning. But today we will be discussing a different type of newspeak. The idea of newspeak didn’t emerge at the time of the Covid-19 pandemic; rather it was invented by George Orwell in his dystopian novel 1984. The book sheds light on the mechanisms behind modern-day thought control.
So what is newspeak like as a language? Can it be learned? How is newspeak relevant in the 21st century? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/15/2021 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
What is the three-finger salute?
What is the three-finger salute? Thanks for asking!
Since the start of February, protesters in Myanmar have been pictured making a three-finger gesture as a symbol of opposition to the country’s recent coup d’état. They’ve taken to the streets to protest against what they see as an attack on democracy.
So why are the protesters using the three-finger salute?
Well it might look like a scout salute but it actually comes from the Hunger Games series of books and films. The story sees heroine Katniss Everdeen lead a revolt against the rich, sadistic elite in the nation of Panem. District 12 villagers use the three-finger salute as a symbol of unity. The franchise met huge success in Asia upon the release of the first film in 2012. And the three-finger salute was actually used in Thailand in the aftermath of a coup d’état in 2014. It even ended up being made illegal. It reappeared at Hong Kong protests in 2019 and 2020, as a symbol of resistance against the Chinese government. Some activists have suggested the three raised fingers represent the French Revolution ideals of liberty, equality and fraternity.
Are you saying we can compare what’s going on in Myanmar to Hunger Games? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/13/2021 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
What is class-passing?
What is class-passing? Thanks for asking!
Everybody loves a rags-to-riches story, but the reality is social mobility is far from easy. Class-passers are those who manage to successfully improve their status and navigate their new life as part of a higher socioeconomic group.
To understand class-passing, let’s first discuss the idea of social classes. Within our societies, people are divided according to factors like their family background, education, wealth, occupation and income. Most commonly these categories are described as the lower, middle and upper classes. A person’s life path and opportunities are often defined by their social background. For example, just 26% of poorer school pupils in the UK went on to higher education in 2017, compared to 44% among their better-off peers.
Is there a surefire way to climb the social ladder? Or do I just need to hope for a lucky break? Shouldn’t class-passers be proud to have made it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/11/2021 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
What is the Matilda Effect?
What is the Matilda Effect? Thanks for asking!
Imagine humanity only using half the brains at its disposal to solve the many scientific challenges it faces in the present and future. While such an idea might seem crazy, it’s not so far from reality. In recognition of International Women’s Day, which took place on Monday, let’s discuss a form of bias known as the Matilda Effect.
Over the years, very few female scientists have got the same level of acclaim as their male counterparts, whether it be in the history books or on award winner lists. As a simple illustration, if you ask someone to name a female scientist, Marie Curie may well be the first name they come up with. Even so, her husband is often referenced as having contributed to her work, and she is rarely referred to by her last name alone.
Where did the name Matilda effect come from? Do you have any examples of forgotten female scientists? What can we do to help these female scientists be remembered? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/10/2021 • 5 minutes, 10 seconds
What is cyclothymia?
What is cyclothymia? Thanks for asking!
The term cyclothymia was coined in the late 19th century by German psychiatrist Karl Ludwig Kahlbaum. It describes a clinical situation which has many similarities with bipolar disorder, although its symptoms are less severe. It affects 6% of people but to get diagnosed takes 10-12 years on average and seeing several different doctors.
We talk about something being a disorder when it has an impact on everyday life, and that’s the case with cyclothymia. It usually comes on during adolescence or early adulthood. Those affected are highly sensitive and can quickly change moods in an intense way.
During the depressive phase, they may suddenly lose all enthusiasm for something that interested them before, like exercise or work. At other times, they may have inflated self-esteem, be more talkative, hyperactive or unpredictable. This phase is known as hypomania and usually lasts four or more days.
So how is cyclothymia different from bipolar disorder? Why is it so difficult to diagnose then? Is cyclothymia a curable disorder? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/8/2021 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
What is long COVID?
What is long COVID? Thanks for asking!
Even months after infection, some Covid-19 patients have continued to suffer from symptoms such as extreme fatigue, lack of sleep or breathing problems. And these are mostly people who have long been discharged from hospital, or never even went there in the first place. This form of the virus is generally multi-symptomatic and protean.
The term long Covid was actually coined by a group of infected patients, who experienced it during the first wave of the pandemic. They had to campaign for months to raise public awareness and draw greater attention from the medical community, getting it on the agenda for scientific research.
Does long Covid affect a high proportion of patients? How would I know if I had long Covid? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/6/2021 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
What is Clubhouse?
What is Clubhouse? Thanks for asking!
Clubhouse is a 100% audio social networking app. It’s suddenly everywhere, having accrued 2 million users despite being created less than a year ago in March 2020. Its current valuation is over $1bn. In the era of lockdowns, social distancing and an increased need to communicate with the outside world, you could say Clubhouse came along at just the right time.
Wait a minute, it’s not like we’re lacking in social networks to choose from. What’s different about this one? So it’s a bit like listening to Do You Really Know then, is it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/4/2021 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
What is a nasal spray vaccine?
What is a nasal spray vaccine? Thanks for asking!
We’re all familiar with how traditional vaccines work. We get injected with a virus, or a weakened version, so that our immune system learns how to fight against it. This is most often done with a little jab in the arm. But scientists have actually been working on other injection methods for years.
Spray vaccines, or mucosal vaccines, are more effective than traditional vaccines for some illnesses. Such vaccines already exist for cholera or rotavirus, and research is ongoing to find one for whooping cough or HIV. This method is comparable to the oral vaccine, thanks to which we were able to eradicate polio throughout the world. A number of pharmaceutical companies in the US, France, Germany and China are trying to find a Covid-19 spray vaccine.
Are they doing that for people like me who hate needles? How does this all relate to the vaccine? How do nasal sprays compare to Covid-19 vaccine injections? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/3/2021 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
What is quantum technology?
What is quantum technology? Thanks for asking!
Quantum technologies are tools which use the physical properties of tiny particles like ions or photons. It might seem abstract, but these technological breakthroughs look set to be a game-changer in computing and communications.
The UK government has already invested over £1bn in quantum science and technology, with the country is seen as one of the world’s leaders in the field. The National Quantum Technologies Programme receives funding to develop new technologies like electric car batteries and advancing imaging systems to detect cancer.
Are quantum technologies totally new then? How does quantum computing actually work? So can we all expect to be using quantum technologies soon? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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3/1/2021 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
What is the social credit system?
What is the social credit system? Thanks for asking!
With a population of 1.4 billion inhabitants and a surface area 39 times larger than that of the UK, China has seen mass surveillance systems rolled out in recent decades.
Take video surveillance and facial recognition for example, with over 600 million security cameras throughout the country. Or the controlling and censorship of the country’s most popular social network WeChat. And now the Chinese authorities are taking this to the next level, with the social credit system that evaluates citizens’ behaviour and perceived trustworthiness.
It’s the brainchild of Lin Junyue, a researcher from Beijing who took inspiration from the American insurance system. The original idea was to verify the solvency of individuals and companies, but it has evolved a great deal since.
So how does the system work? It sounds like Black Mirror or 1984! Aren’t the country’s laws enough? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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2/27/2021 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is 'Oumuamua?
What is 'Oumuamua? Thanks for asking!
In 2017, ‘Oumuamua became the first interstellar object to be detected passing through our solar system. The discovery of this mysterious object has led to a number of theories about its origins. Could ‘Oumuamua hold the secret to how other solar systems were formed, or be proof that aliens exist?
How did we first discover the existence of ‘Oumuamua then? So what are the most convincing theories? And what do other scientists think of the alien hypothesis? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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2/25/2021 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What is critical thinking?
What is critical thinking? Thanks for asking!
Critical thinking is the intellectual process of evaluating information, thinking clearly and rationally as a guide to belief and action. You could see it as an attitude whereby no statement or piece of information is accepted as true or false, without first being carefully analysed. Simplistic conflations, generalisations and preconceptions are all challenged, as is any kind of statement made without evidence.
Critical thinking has its roots in the teachings of ancient Greek philosophers Socrates and Plato. Throughout history, philosophers like Francis Bacon, René Descartes and Emmanuel Kant have used it to create the basis for methodical thought.
So how do I go about becoming a critical thinker then? What about religion? Surely it can’t be possible for religious beliefs and critical thinking to coexist, can it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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2/24/2021 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
What is the postpartum period?
What is the postpartum period? Thanks for asking!
Many people wrongly assume that all women immediately find their feet after having a baby. In reality, it can be an overwhelming phase which is often neglected.
The postpartum period begins as the mother’s body starts returning to a non-pregnant state. It’s commonly used to refer to the first six weeks following childbirth, but it may last significantly longer, with a range of physical and psychological symptoms.
So what actually happens during the postpartum period?
Postpartum is a time of recovery for the new mother’s body. The uterus, which grows up to fifteen times bigger during pregnancy, contracts and returns to its normal size. Changing levels of hormones like progesterone and estrogen can cause hot flashes and sweating.
It’s best to stock up on disposable underwear for leaking and bleeding. Post-childbirth vaginal discharge, known as lochia, contains blood, mucus and uterine tissue. After the postpartum period is over, you should start feeling more like yourself again. Your body may also be ready to have sex.
Is postpartum just a fancy word for the baby blues then?
We shouldn’t confuse postpartum depression with the baby blues, which affect up to 80% of mothers. These short-term mood dips usually disappear within a week or two after the baby’s birth.
Meanwhile, postpartum depression is more severe and lasts longer. The World Health Organisation has estimated that between 10% and 15% of women experience it. Whereas a mum with the baby blues might see her moods swing quickly from happy to sad, postpartum depression is characterised by constant feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness and loneliness.
Needless to say, this can quickly become overwhelming in the life of a young mother, making it difficult to complete daily activities for herself or her baby.
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2/22/2021 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
What is ketamine?
What is ketamine? Thanks for asking!
Ketamine is a psychoactive drug, which is known for being both a horse tranquiliser horse and a party drug for ravers looking to experience a psychedelic trip. lsd kick in It has also recently emerged that ketamine is an effective antidepressant. Its use for medical purposes has been approved in the United States and Europe.
edge of space
Ketamine was first synthesised in 1962. It’s widely used by vets to anesthetize animals, but it’s also been used to ease pain in humans for some time. It’s common knowledge that ketamine was given to American soldiers requiring emergency surgery during the Vietnam war. To this day, it’s used in other procedures like skin grafts and cardiac catheterisation.
techno
In the 90s, ketamine got a reputation as an illicit party drug. Nicknamed Special K, ravers made it their recreational drug of choice for its hallucinogenic and dissociative effects. Of course, using it is illegal and potentially dangerous. Mixed with alcohol or in a high dose, it can lead to respiratory failure and death.
What are the scientific effects of ketamine?
Ketamine acts as an antagonist on a number of neurotransmitters, in particular glutamate, the brain’s most common chemical messenger. When taken in high doses, it prevents glutamate from circulating, causing the anaesthetising effect. But in small doses it increases production, which is what leads to hallucinations. woosh
In depressed people, some brain cell connections have been destroyed by significant stress or trauma. An article published in Science magazine explained that ketamine can prompt those connections to regrow, thereby acting as a treatment for depression.
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2/20/2021 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
What is burnout?
What is burnout? Thanks for asking!
In January 2021, the European Parliament approved a “right to disconnect” policy which passed relatively unnoticed in the midst of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. This resolution recognises workers rights to switch off outside of working hours, in order to protect their mental health, wellbeing and private lives.
A Eurofound survey estimated that one third of all workers were working remotely last year. Since the start of the pandemic, a sedentary and “always-on” lifestyle has become the norm for many. While remote work clearly has some advantages, staying connected and available around the clock can have negative effects. These include anxiety, depression or even a burnout.
Is burnout similar to depression then?
Not really, because it’s seen as an occupational phenomenon, rather than a medical condition. The World Health Organisation defines burn-out as a “syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.” American psychiatrist Herbert Freudenberger coined the term burn-out back in 1974 when he became the first person to publish research on the syndrome in the Journal of Social Issues.
How can I tell if one of my colleagues is experiencing a burn-out then?
There may be physical, emotional, cognitive, interpersonal and motivational signs. The three characteristics of occupational burn-out are: feelings of exhaustion, increased mental distance from, or negative feelings towards, your job and reduced efficiency. Furthermore, Mayo Clinic cites a lack of work-life balance, a high workload, overtime and a monotonous job among the risk factors for burnout.
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2/18/2021 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
What is dyspareunia?
What is dyspareunia? Thanks for asking!
Most people associate sex with pleasure but research suggests that 60% of women have already experienced pain during sex without daring to tell their partner.
Dyspareunia is the medical term for pain which occurs before, during or after intercourse. The problem can affect men, but is far more common in women. Dyspareunia may be persistent or recurrent, sometimes leading to a loss of libibdo or forms of sexual dysfunction like vaginismus.
What does this pain feel like?
There are two main types of dyspareunia: superficial and deep. Superficial pain can affect the clitoris, vulva or at the opening of the vagina. It may come on as soon as penetration begins, or even before. Deeper pain is generally felt in the vault of the vagina or within the pelvis upon penetration. It may be more acute in certain sexual positions.
So what are the causes of dyspareunia? Is there any hope for those suffering with dyspareunia? What can they do to stop? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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2/17/2021 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
What is Pancake Day?
What is Pancake Day? Thanks for asking!
Feeling hungry? It’s Pancake Day tomorrow, which means you’ve still got time to choose your favourite toppings! Pancake Day is also known as Shrove Tuesday, which marks the day before the start of Lent on the Christian calendar. The date changes every year, as it depends on when Easter falls.
So how did a religious date get to be known as Pancake Day?
Well, according to Christian tradition, Pancake Day marks the last day of excess allowed before Lent. The following day is Ash Wednesday, and the beginning of 40 days of prayer and fasting. During Lent, practising Christians often give up something as a personal sacrifice to remember the forty days Jesus spent in the desert. Lent ends on Easter Sunday, when Christians celebrate Jesus’s resurrection from the dead, after being crucified.
How far back does the celebration of Pancake Day go?
The tradition of making pancakes dates back to at least the Middle Ages. Preparing pancakes was considered ideal to use up rich foodstuffs like butter, eggs and milk, before Lent. Like many religious festivals, customs vary by region. In other countries, people eat doughnuts, omelettes or pastries instead of pancakes.
In the UK, pancake races are held, with participants in fancy dress running down the street flipping pancakes in a frying pan. Elsewhere, Shrove Tuesday is known as Mardi Gras, which translates into English as Fat Tuesday.
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2/15/2021 • 3 minutes, 54 seconds
What is an antiviral mask?
What is an antiviral mask? Thanks for asking!
Since the turn of the year, the threat of new coronavirus variants has emerged. As a result, many are questioning how effective different types of face covering are against these more contagious strains.
The World Health Organisation has stressed that cloth masks still work just as well, because the mode of transmission is the same, despite the mutation. However, governments in some countries have encouraged people to favour surgical masks or FFP2 masks.
Manufacturers are on a mission to make more efficient face coverings available to the public. Some even claim their products have germ-killing properties which can destroy the coronavirus!
How can a mask kill a virus? Is that really possible?
Remember that the coronavirus doesn’t simply circulate on its own. It’s always carried by something like a drop of saliva. When we wear a face covering of any kind, we mainly protect others from our own droplets.
A standard mask filters the majority of pathogens but can never be 100% successful. Antiviral masks are more proactive in that they don’t just seek to stop viruses and bacteria from penetrating, but to kill it and prevent them from staying on the surface. The best form of defence is attack, as they say!
Some use antimicrobial agents, like proteins, which bind to the virus and stop it from replicating. Others are infused with metals like copper or silver, which are known to have antimicrobial properties.
In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the Gamestop short squeeze?
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What is Diogenes Syndrome?
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2/13/2021 • 3 minutes, 50 seconds
What is the Gamestop short squeeze?
What is the Gamestop short squeeze? Thanks for asking!
You may have seen headlines about it in recent weeks, and it’s certainly one of the financial stories of the year so far. The Gamestop short squeeze saw Wall Street tremble at least temporarily due to the actions of amateur traders from Reddit. And this battle is perhaps just the start of a long war.
To understand the short squeeze, let’s go back to the beginning. Gamestop is an American chain of video game stores which has a presence in many countries across the world. It’s well-known among gamers, but has been struggling of late due to competition from digital distribution.
That might sound like sad news, but some American hedge funds saw an opportunity to make money by effectively betting on the company’s stock falling in value. That’s known as shorting and it’s seen as a form of vulture capitalism, because of the disregard it shows for the businesses in question.
How does short-selling actually work in practice?
OK it’s a little complicated for novice traders but let’s try with a simplified example. Say you expect the value of a company’s shares to drop. You borrow a single share in the company from someone and then immediately sell it.
When the value drops, you can make a profit by buying back a new share at a lower price, and simply paying it back to the original lender. This is what some hedge funds like Melvin Capital did with Gamestop, but in far higher quantities than a single share of course!
So what went wrong for the hedge funds in this case? Anybody can buy stocks? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Diogenes Syndrome?
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2/11/2021 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
What is a coup d’etat?
What is a coup d’etat? Thanks for asking!
Just last week, Myanmar underwent its fourth coup d’état in 63 years, ten years after becoming a democracy. Although no blood was spilled, several members of the ruling National League for Democracy Party were placed under house arrest by the military. That includes Aung San Suu Kyi, the elected State Counsellor. The Tatmadaw military declared a year-long state of emergency.
What are the main characteristics of a coup d’état?
The term, which has been around since the 18th century, comes from French words meaning “a strike against the state”. In 2013, the University of Illinois’ Cline Center for Democracy defined a coup d’état as “the sudden and irregular removal, or displacement, of the executive authority of an independent government.” Their project listed twelve different types of coup.
So the purpose of a coup is usually to seize power. A coup isn’t necessarily violent, but many are. In 2011, American researchers Jonathan Powell and Clayton Thyne identified three common criteria in coups d’état. Firstly, the coup has to be carried out against the executive authority, by the military or other elites within the state, using anti-constitutional methods.
Another synonym is the Swiss-German word “putsch”, which is also used in English. It refers to military coups, such as Myanmar 2021. When it’s the people who overthrow the government and take power, we talk instead about a revolution.
Can you give me some examples of recent coups d’état? What about January’s storming of the U.S. Capitol? Could that be considered a coup d’état? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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2/10/2021 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
What is Diogenes Syndrome?
What is Diogenes Syndrome? Thanks for asking!
Diogenes Syndrome is a behavioural disorder which mainly affects older adults. It’s also known as senile squalor syndrome, which is perhaps a more evocative name for what it entails. It happens when people neglect to take care of themselves, leading to poor personal hygiene and an extremely dirty or messy home. The unsanitary conditions in which these people live can lead to other health problems.
How could anyone get to live in such squalor?
Many people affected are totally unaware that anything is wrong with their home, or simply living in denial. Untrusting of others, they often live in isolation and may turn down offers of help from family or friends. They are compulsive hoarders, even keeping rubbish in their homes which can attract insects and rodents.
So their living situation may only come to light after they get sick or have an accident like a fall which results in them needing medical attention. In other scenarios, neighbours may investigate due to smells coming from the person’s home, or the building becoming infested with pests like cockroaches. Extreme cases have even seen fires or serious leaks due to the squalor of someone with Diogenes syndrome.
Wait a minute; who is Diogenes and what does he have to do with all this? Who is affected by this behavioural disorder? What’s the best way to help someone with Diogenes Syndrome? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is ASMR?
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2/8/2021 • 3 minutes, 50 seconds
What is the sixth dose?
What is the sixth dose? Thanks for asking!
From the outset, each vial of the Pfizer and BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine was supposed to contain five doses. But it has since emerged that a sixth dose can in fact be extracted from each vial. So, is this extra dose a welcome surprise which will allow vaccination programmes to move forward more quickly?
Let’s go back to Germany at the end of December 2020. The European Medicines Agency recommended that the Cominarty vaccine from BioNTech and Pfizer be authorised. According to official guidelines, each vial contained enough for five vaccine doses.
The two pharmaceutical giants then asked the EU to allow doctors to extract an extra sixth dose from their vials. The EMA regulator approved this proposition on January 8th 2021, and a spokesperson from BioNTech insisted that the cost of the EU’s vaccine order would remain the same.
So are we saying that European member states are both saving money and able to vaccinate more people with the same number of vials?
It seemed that way at first. But ten days later, Pfizer and BioNTech changed tune. As each vial was now considered to contain six doses, rather than five, they would deliver less vials to European states.
Having ordered 600 million doses of the Cominarty vaccine, the EU would now receive only 100 million vials, rather than the initially expected 120 million.
What’s going to happen with all the remaining vials then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is sensory processing sensitivity?
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2/6/2021 • 4 minutes, 39 seconds
What is sensory processing sensitivity?
What is sensory processing sensitivity? Thanks for asking!
“Why are you being so sensitive?” “Stop overreacting”. It’s common to hear people criticise others for being highly sensitive, but it actually often isn’t a choice.
Sensory processing sensitivity, or SPS, is a personality trait which describes how individuals’ levels of sensitivity vary when reacting to physical, social and emotional stimuli. This is down to differences in the central nervous system and cognitive processing.
Discussion of SPS is recent. It only began in the 1990s, thanks to American psychologists Elaine and Arthur Aron. They designed a questionnaire to measure sensitivity and estimated that 15-20% of the world’s population have high SPS. Such people are known as HSPs, or highly sensitive people.
Wow, that’s a lot! Could I be an HSP without realising it?
There are a number of telltale signs. On the physical side, a highly sensitive person may react in a very positive or negative way to certain sounds, odours or even touches. Some examples are bright lights, coarse fabrics and loud noises.
Emotional reactions, both positive and negative, can also be strong. Highly sensitive people may have trouble accepting criticism, as well as compliments. They can switch quickly from joy to anger, or from love to apathy. Due to their heightened empathy, they understand what other people are feeling.
If you’re a neurotypical, you may find HSPs tactless when describing their feelings.
Is high sensitivity considered an illness? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is ASMR?
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2/4/2021 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
What is enbyphobia?
What is enbyphobia? Thanks for asking!
This term first appeared in LGBT+ circles; if you’re wondering what an “enby” is, just say it slower: N - B, which stands for non-binary. So it refers to a phobia of non-binary people, which is also sometimes called exorsexism.
If you think back to our episode about non-binary gender identity, you’ll remember it means people who do not feel exclusively male or female. For example, some may identify as having two or more genders, or none at all.
There isn’t much data on the subject, but statistics gathered by Nat Titman in 2014 suggest that at least 1 in 250 people are non-binary. In reality, the figure may be much higher.
British Grammy-winning singer Sam Smith and Netflix star Brigette Lundy-Pain are just a couple of the numerous celebrities who describe themselves as non-binary.
So why do some people have a problem with NBs? And what does enbyphobic behaviour look like?
Enbyphobes often argue that being non-binary isn’t a real thing. They see it as a fad or temporary identity crisis affecting confused, attention-seeking members of today’s younger generations. And of course non-binary people don’t appreciate not being taken seriously. They see enbyphobia as a form of systemic oppression.
Some people refuse to use gender-neutral pronouns like ‘they’ or ‘zie’, even when corrected. Assuming, ignoring or invalidating a person's gender is called misgendering. Most NBs understand that mistakes happen, but choosing to wilfully ignore a person’s choice of pronoun is seen as disrespectful and enbyphobic.
Other common examples of enbyphobia in society are only having male and female bathrooms, only listing two genders on a form or using non-inclusive phrases such as “ladies and gentlemen” or “boys and girls”.
Non-binary people may also be more likely to be victims of harassment and assault.
What’s the difference between transphobia and enbyphobia? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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2/3/2021 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What is ASMR?
What is ASMR? Thanks for asking!
ASMR is short for autonomous sensory meridian response. It refers to the pleasant tingling sensations some people feel when triggered by certain sensory stimuli. These sensations tend to begin on the scalp and work their way down throughout the body, bringing on a state of relaxation.
In the 2010s, ASMR was popularised to such an extent that there are thousands of videos available online for those looking to experience it. Most often, ASMR is brought on by an audio stimulus, so it’s recommended to listen with headphones to really enhance the sounds going into your ears. That’s especially true when the recordings have been made with a binaural microphone.
Other kinds of triggers are visual, like hand movements, or tactile, like light touches against the skin.
Are you saying it took us until the 21st century to discover such sensations?
Well, in reality the sensations have existed since forever, but it wasn’t until 2010 that anyone put a name on them. Jennifer Allen, herself an ASMR content creator, coined the scientific-sounding acronym on a Facebook group and it caught on. Allen has since explained she wanted the term to come across as clinical, so people could talk about it openly without fear of being ridiculed. There’s almost no science on ASMR.
Since then, this digital-age relaxation method has become a true sensation. Each month, there are over 11 million searches for ASMR on Youtube, and the most viewed videos have tens of millions of plays. The influencers posting these are known as ASMRtists and they have to regularly come up with new ideas to keep their content fresh.
What are the most common ASMR triggers? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Wikipedia?
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What is Signal?
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2/1/2021 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
What is VOC202012/01?
What is VOC202012/01? Thanks for asking!
It might seem like a random series of letters and numbers, but bear with us and you’ll soon understand. VOC202012/01 is the name of the so-called UK coronavirus variant, one of several which are causing concern at the moment. Since first being detected in South-East England, it has started spreading all across the world.
How far back does this strain actually date?
In mid-December, London mayor Sadiq Kahn warned people to expect the “toughest Christmas” since the Second World War, after it was announced the city would face Tier 4 covid-19 restrictions. That decision was taken due to the rising infection rates caused by the new virus strain. According to Nick Loman, professor of microbial genomics and bioinformation at the University of Birmingham, this variant was first identified in the United Kingdom in late September 2020.
The strain was originally known as VUI 202012/01, the VUI standing for variant under investigation. But it was then renamed as a VOC, or variant of concern, in December.
So what are the differences between this variant and the original coronavirus? Are you saying this strain is more dangerous then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/30/2021 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
What is Wikipedia?
What is Wikipedia? Thanks for asking!
On January 15th 2021, Wikipedia turned 20 years old, believe it or not.
Wow, thanks for making me feel old!
OK so everybody already knows what Wikipedia is, but let’s look closer at its history, how it works and the limits of this collaborative, volunteer-produced internet encyclopedia.
Nowadays, Wikipedia has over 55 million articles in over 300 different languages. But everything started with a single post titled Hello World, published by American founder Jimmy Wales. He invited internet users to join his encyclopedia project with the radical aim of changing how knowledge was created and shared online.
That’s a pretty ambitious objective!
The main novelty was allowing anyone to contribute and edit the encyclopedia’s articles, regardless of education or social origin. So with Wikipedia, knowledge on a subject isn’t produced according to some kind of hierarchy whereby a minority of experts have all the control. Instead we place trust in collective intelligence.
Editors, also known as Wikipedians, combine their efforts on a voluntary basis, to help the collaborative community to exist, with no director.
Can the information really be considered reliable if anyone can contribute?
Interestingly, the sheer number of contributors is seen as a guarantee of Wikipedia’s reliability, even if they work on a voluntary basis. The more editors there are, the greater the number of peer reviews and edits which can be made to reach the general consensus on any given subject.
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1/28/2021 • 6 minutes, 6 seconds
What is Parler?
What is Parler? Thanks for asking!
Since the start of the year, a previously little known social network has been making international headlines. Despite having just 1 million users in July 2020, Parler was the most downloaded app on the US App Store in November, right after the Presidential election. By then, it had reached 10 million users, a figure which rose to 15 million by January 2021. Parler’s user base mainly consists of conservatives, Donald Trump supporters, right-wing extremists and conspiracy theorists.
How did Parler become such a big deal?
Parler was actually founded in 2018, positioning itself as an unbiased alternative to mainstream social networks. It takes its name from the French word parler, meaning “to speak”. Parler has officially described itself as “free speech social media focused on protecting users’ rights.”
Like any other social network, Parler has a web browser version, as well as apps for mobile devices. Users just need an email address and telephone number to register, as well as meeting the minimum age requirement of 13. Unlike on Twitter, users must have an account before viewing posts.
Despite its explosion in users, Parler has been offline since January 11th, when Amazon decided to suspend the site from its web hosting service. Google and Apple also removed Parler from their app stores, making the platform totally unavailable.
That’s quite some rise and fall! Why was Parler taken offline then? What is the current outlook for Parler? Will it come back online? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is Signal?
What is bardcore?
What is compersion?
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1/27/2021 • 5 minutes
What is Signal?
What is Signal? Thanks for asking!
Maybe you’re among the millions of new users to have recently downloaded messaging app Signal. Just like Whatsapp or Messenger, Signal is a free-to-use messaging app which can be used on smartphone or desktop computers. Unlike its competitors though, Signal is independent and prides itself on being the most secure messaging app around.
The first version of the Signal app launched in 2015, created by American entrepreneur Moxie Marlinspike. But it was only at the start of 2021 that Signal really took off. And ironically, its new found success is largely down to competitor Whatsapp.
For years now many of us have been using Whatsapp to call friends across the globe, without racking up a massive phone bill. Its group functions allow friends, family and colleagues to share media.
Ah yes the famous family Whatsapp group that I’ve had on mute for about two years now!
Anyway, all was going well for Whatsapp and its 2 billion users until the start of 2021. One day, parent company Facebook, announced that its terms of use were changing. A new mandatory privacy policy would see some information shared with Facebook and Instagram, in order to serve targeted advertising.
Facebook did its best to reassure Whatsapp users that this would only affect messages to business or enterprise accounts. The deadline for accepting the new policy has also now been pushed back by three months. But the damage has been done, and many fear that Facebook could seek to access their private messages and photos.
A tweet from Elon Musk, who recently became the richest person in the world, added flames to the fire. The post to his millions of followers simply read “Use Signal”. Whistleblower and former NSA contractor Edward Snowden has also backed Signal, expressly stating it is more secure than Whatsapp.
So what does Signal have that Whatsapp doesn’t? In what way is it independent? Who does Signal belong to? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is compersion?
What is Inauguration Day?
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1/25/2021 • 5 minutes, 1 second
What is bardcore?
What is bardcore? Thanks for asking!
Prithee, a maiden doth serenade from afar! What enchanting melody be this?
Fear not, Shakira didn’t rip-off a medieval musician when she brought out Hips Don’t Lie in 2005. What you’re listening to was created by medieval minstrels of the 21st century. You might call them bards, as they enjoy creating medieval covers of modern-day hits. This kind of music has been baptised bardcore, or tavernwave.
Another crazy internet phenomenon! Where on earth did bardcore come from?
Modern musicians have been exploring Middle Age music styles and instruments for a number of years. But the bardcore boom is relatively recent, dating back to April 2020. Most of the world’s population was locked indoors, hiding from Covid-19, the modern-day equivalent of the Black Death. 27-year-old Cornelius Link from Germany became perhaps the first ever Bardcore composer. The web developer made the most of his time in lockdown by creating a medieval remake of electronic dance track Astronomia, best known from its use in the coffin dance meme.
Inspired by Link’s work, a number of dedicated Youtube channels sprung up in a short space of time, all posting medieval covers. Some put their sounds together using audio software, while others actually record themselves playing contemporary instruments like the lute, pipe, harp or tambourine.
Let’s take another listen.When we looked, this cover of Lady Gaga’s Bad Romance already had 6.5 million views in just 7 months! Not bad huh?!
Why do I feel like the words are different? How similar is the bardcore style to real Medieval music? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/23/2021 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What is compersion?
What is compersion? Thanks for asking!
You won’t find the term compersion in the dictionary, but it could be defined as the pleasure derived from seeing someone else experience happiness and joy. It’s often associated with polyamory and non-monogamous relationships, having been coined by the Keristan polyamorous community in 1970s California.
So are you saying I should be happy if my partner loves someone else?
Compersion is all about being happy for someone else, even when their positive experience isn’t related to us. In a relationship, you could see it as the opposite of jealousy and possessiveness. Compulsory monogamy is a social mandate which suggests that having multiple partners at the same time is immoral. We are traditionally raised to view dating in this way, which can lead to an expectation of jealousy and feelings of ownership over our partners.
That’s not to say that polyamory is for everyone, but some couples have taken the conscious decision to move away from the status quo when they feel it’s not working for them. Society teaches us that we’re supposed to satisfy all of our partner’s needs and vice versa but often that’s simply an unrealistic expectation.
How do people go about cultivating compersion in polyamorous relationships? Can compersion exist outside of polyamory? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/21/2021 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
What is Inauguration Day?
What is Inauguration Day? Thanks for asking!
Today is Inauguration Day, and Joe Biden is to be sworn in as the 46th President of the United States, following his victory in November’s election. Inauguration Day is perhaps the ultimate public display of American democracy, marking a peaceful transition from one president to the next.
There’s been nothing peaceful about the events of recent weeks in the United States!
Traditionally, the outgoing President escorts the President-elect from the White House to the Capitol on Inauguration Day. But it came to the surprise of no-one when Donald Trump announced he wouldn’t be attending Biden’s inauguration.
Trump has adamantly contested the election result and repeatedly refused to concede. He then became the first US President to be impeached a second time, for his role in inciting the storming of the Capitol exactly two weeks ago.
All fifty states are on alert, prepared for armed pro-Trump marches and possible violent outbreaks. More than 20,000 National Guard troops are to be deployed in Washington DC.
Tell me more about the historical traditions of Inauguration Day! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/20/2021 • 5 minutes, 17 seconds
What is Blue Monday?
What is Blue Monday? Thanks for asking!
Sorry to start the week with bad news but today is Blue Monday, often cited as the most depressing day of the year. Blue Monday has existed since 2005, and is based on an equation which takes into account various factors. However, its detractors criticise the idea as pseudoscience and say it is driven by money.
Why does Blue Monday occur in January?
Since the first Blue Monday equation was devised by psychologist Cliff Arnall, there have been a few different variants, but there are common elements to each.
Of course you’ve got the winter weather, which explains why Blue Monday isn’t a phenomenon in the southern Hemisphere, where January is a summer month. Blue Monday is also not well known in the United States, as it usually clashes with Martin Luther King Day.
Furthermore, people are often indebted in January, after overspending at Christmas time, and there’s still over a week to wait until payday. The joy of the holiday season has passed and many of us have already failed to stick to our New Year’s resolutions.
Black Friday, Super Saturday, Blue Monday - why do I get the feeling this is just another marketing thing? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/18/2021 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
What are bionic soldiers?
What are bionic soldiers? Thanks for asking!
Bionic soldiers have been making headlines since early December, when a French military ethics committee approved the development of technological upgrades for members of the country’s armed forces.
Less than a week prior to that announcement, the US Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe raised concerns about China’s military technology plans. Writing an opinion piece in the Wall Street Journal, he accused Beijing of “developing soldiers with biologically enhanced capabilities”, with the ultimate aim being to “dominate the US and the rest of the planet economically, militarily and technologically.”
And the United States government has also invested heavily itself in developing new generation military technology. In 2016, it spent millions to create an implant allowing the human brain to communicate with computers.
This all sounds like something out of science fiction! Are we going to see cyborgs on the battlefield soon?
It’s true that the idea of enhancing a human's physical or cognitive abilities through the use of technology was long restricted to sci-fi. Films like Universal Soldier and Robocop are perfect examples. But recent discussions around bionic soldiers have made such developments seem closer to becoming reality.
French defence minister Florence Parly insisted that there were currently no plans to develop bionic soldiers, but the ethics committee ruling does mean it would be allowed in the future. Using a superhero analogy, Parly said the country’s intention would be to have armoured fighters like Iron Man, rather than genetic mutants like Spiderman.
What kind of enhancements would bionic soldiers have compared to regular humans? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/16/2021 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
What is induced lactation?
What is induced lactation? Thanks for asking!
Induced lactation refers to the production of breast milk in non-gestational parents. That’s right, a woman who hasn’t ever been pregnant can still breastfeed their child using this method. Sounds complicated? Well it is, but it’s not impossible, and it can allow adoptive or surrogate mothers to breastfeed if they desire.
The benefits of breastfeeding for a baby’s wellbeing and development are well documented, in addition to the emotional bond the physical connection can create. Quite simply, breast milk is seen as the best food for a baby, so it’s understandably an option that many families would wish to explore.
In 2019, a collection of photos showing a same-sex married couple breastfeeding their twins together went viral. Kelly Pfeiffer had carried the babies, while her wife Jaclyn induced lactation.
What’s the science behind induced lactation then?
Human breast tissue contains small clusters of alveoli, whether you’re a woman or a man. These hollow cavities are lined with cells which secrete milk. But it’s actually the hormone prolactin, produced by the pituitary gland in the brain, which stimulates the mammary glands and is mainly responsible for lactation.
Interestingly, prolactin is present in the bodies of both women and men. Outside of pregnancy, women have around a third more prolactin in their bodies compared to men. During a pregnancy, this rises to 10 times more. This spike is what causes the breasts to swell and breast milk to be produced.
In the case of induced lactation, hormone therapy and herbs may be used to simulate the effects of pregnancy, with close medical supervision of course. It’s also possible to produce milk through mechanical stimulation only. Devices like breast pumps and feeding tubes can assist.
The process produces low volumes of milk to start with, but studies have shown the milk is just as good for a baby as that of biological mothers.
Women planning to induce lactation should reach out to their healthcare provider as early as possible before their baby arrives.
What about men? Could they also lactate and breastfeed? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/14/2021 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
What is a Bullshit job?
What is a Bullshit job? Thanks for asking!
Back in 2013, anthropology professor David Graeber penned an essay in radical magazine Strike, criticising the proliferation of what he called Bullshit jobs. Despite having a higher social status compared to careers in teaching or nursing for example, these positions are effectively pointless. Even those paid to occupy them often struggle to justify their existence. And yet teachers and nurses are less well paid despite offering a more meaningful contribution to society.
Well yes, there’s a reason they’ve been called “essential workers” during the Covid-19 pandemic, isn’t there?
That’s right, and in fact the last year has seen some high-profile instances of bullshit work. Think of the UK consulting firms that as of October 2020 had been paid a combined £175m to advise the government on its response to the pandemic. This use of public money has come under strong scrutiny, especially due to the poor results achieved.
One example was the £560,000 contract awarded to McKinsey & Company to define the “vision, purpose and narrative” of the country’s testing programme.
What was the impact of Graeber’s essay? Do you have some examples of these BS jobs then? So what’s the solution to the bullshit jobs problem? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/13/2021 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
What is Pornhub?
What is Pornhub? Thanks for asking!
With over 3 billion visits per month, it’s the 10th most popular website worldwide. Don’t act all innocent; if you have an internet connection, it’s almost certain you have at least heard of PornHub.
It’s perhaps the world’s most popular porn site but it has been making headlines for controversial reasons in the last month. Reports have surfaced, accusing PornHub of hosting illegal content, such as videos of non-consensual sex and child abuse.
How did PornHub get to be so successful?
The site was launched in Montreal in 2007 and has grown explosively ever since, being bought out by MindGeek in 2010. Each year, a combined 6 million videos are uploaded to the platform by pros and amateur members of the PornHub community.
In 2019, PornHub recorded over 40 billion visits in a single year. For comparison’s sake, that’s more annual traffic than either Amazon or Netflix. Analytics site Similarweb estimates the average time on site at 8 minutes and 53 seconds.
It sounds like everything is going swimmingly at PornHub then! Until December 4th 2020... In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/11/2021 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
What are tiny forests?
What are tiny forests? Thanks for asking!
Over the last few years, citizens have been planting tiny forests in towns and country settings. There are now over 2,000 across the world, all inspired by the Miyawaki method and designed to help prevent the collapse of biodiversity.
Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki was born in 1928. While studying seeds and natural forests, he observed that the vast majority of Japanese forests were made by humans. Trees had been planted according to the quality of their wood, in order to build buildings or houses. The problem was that these trees weren’t the most resistant or efficient against global warming.
Don’t we already have a lot of forests in Europe?
You’re right in so far as forests cover 182 million hectares or 43% of the total land area in the continent. The figure for the UK is comparatively low, at just 3.21 million hectares and 13% of land area.
The thing is most of this land is accounted for by monoculture forests, which are only home to one type of tree. As explained by non-profit organisation Project Drawdown, many were created “with purely economic motives and little regard for the long-term well-being of the land, environment, or surrounding communities.”
The resulting lack of plant biodiversity in turn has a negative impact on animal biodiversity, and can cause diseases to spread more easily.
Let’s get back to Miyawaki. Tell me more about how his method works. What is the environmental benefit of all this? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/9/2021 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
What is hygge?
What is hygge? Thanks for asking!
Picture this: you’re indoors, in front of a warm fireplace, with a plaid rug over your legs, sipping a cup of tea or cocoa while watching a film. Or you could be relaxing with a candlelit bath, soothing music and a book in your hands. Well, you might not realise it, but you’re experiencing a typical hygge moment.
Wait a minute, what language are we talking about here?
The word is derived from a 16th century Norwegian term for wellbeing, and can’t be literally translated to English. Hygge is generally described as a concept of cosiness and conviviality, which is a way of life for Danes in particular.
It’s a highly flexible word, which can be used as a noun, verb or adjective. It’s omnipresent and has an endless amount of compound forms, such as hyggebusker. That’s a comfortable pair of sweatpants you secretly love but would never wear in public.
When did hygge get to be so popular? Is this kind of cosiness really that specific to Scandinavia? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/7/2021 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
What are New Year’s Resolutions?
What are New Year’s Resolutions? Thanks for asking!
Well here we are in 2021. Many are glad to see the back of 2020, now looking forward optimistically to the future thanks to global developments like the arrival of Covid-19 vaccines and Joe Biden entering the White House.
The turn of the year also means it’s time to come up with New Year’s resolutions. Setting ourselves objectives for the whole year is always a big ask, and not everyone is able to keep theirs for various reasons.
When were New Year’s resolutions actually invented?
Nowadays, New Year’s resolutions are primarily a Western custom, but their origins actually go back to Mesopotamia in the 3rd century BC. The Babylonians would celebrate the twelve-day Akitu festival to commemorate the New Year. They would pledge their loyalty to the king and promise to pay back any debts they owed. The idea was that the gods would look favourably on them in the year ahead.
In Roman times, new year’s resolutions were linked to two-faced god Janus, who was believed to look both backwards at the previous year and forward into the future. The Romans made sacrifices to Janus and promised their good behaviour for the new year.
In this day and age however, New Year’s resolutions are mostly secular and tend to focus on self-improvement.
What are the most popular New Year’s resolutions? And does anyone actually keep their resolutions? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/6/2021 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
What is breaking?
What is breaking? Thanks for asking!
In early December, the IOC officially announced it was adding breaking to the list of Olympic sports for the Paris 2024 Games. First and foremost, breaking is a form of art which was pioneered in the 1970s by members of the New York hip-hop movement.
Oh right, you’re talking about breakdancing!
Well yes, but the term breakdancing was actually invented by the media. This form of urban dance was originally known as “breaking”, as any self-respecting Bboy or Bgirl will tell you. Those are the terms for male or female practitioners.
So why is it called breaking? How did breaking make it into the Olympics then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/4/2021 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
What is the cosmic calendar?
What is the cosmic calendar? Thanks for asking!
OK, so you’re looking for a new calendar on which to mark family birthdays, Covid-19 dependent holiday plans and dentist appointments in 2021. Well, sorry the cosmic calendar won’t be of much use to you.
It’s totally different to the Gregorian or Islamic calendars, which measure individual days. The cosmic calendar is actually a method of scaling down the entire 13.8 billion year history of the universe, to match a 365-day year. Everything is in chronological order, so one can visualise cosmic evolution, the evolution of life, the relatively short evolution of humans and the even shorter period since history began.
In 1977 astrophysicist Carl Sagan published an essay called The Dragon of Eden, in which featured the first cosmic calendar.
OK, so how does it work?
Us humans are accustomed to measuring time in seconds, minutes and hours. Sagan’s concept helps us to have a better idea of the chronology of the universe. Each day in the cosmic calendar represents 37.8 million years of “real” time, while even a single second is equivalent to 438 years.
The calendar visualisation starts off with the Big Bang at midnight on January 1st, with the universe expanding, cooling and gravitating since. The present day is shown at the very end of the cosmic calendar year, on December 31st.
You can follow the cosmic evolution of the universe, such as the forming of the first stars and galaxies in early January. Believe it or not, our Milky Way Galaxy only forms on May 11th, with the Sun and Earth appearing in September.
Dinosaurs show up at Christmas time, but are then extinct five days later. The first sight of “anatomically modern humans”, also known as homosapiens, is only five minutes before the end of the year. Meanwhile recorded history, based on written records, only covers the final 10 seconds.
Well consider my mind blown! All those years of human history are just a flicker of time really... In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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1/2/2021 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
What is an immunity passport?
What is an immunity passport? Thanks for asking!
After testing and vaccination in 2020, the immunity passport is likely to be one of next year’s Covid-19 hot topics. Apps on our smartphones will be able to show whether we have been tested or vaccinated. The upside? It could lead to the reopening of international travel, meaning we’ll be able to go on holiday again as a result, and access other freedoms.
Big Brother’s watching us - It all sounds a bit creepy to me!
Well the idea of a vaccination card as an entry mechanism is actually far from new. Over a century ago, certain American schools required students and teachers alike to show evidence of their smallpox vaccination. A more recent example is the yellow card, a travel document created by the World Health Organisation in the 1960s. It’s used to prove whether a person has been vaccinated for yellow fever.
I’m guessing the 21st century version must come in the form of an app? Has there been any opposition to the idea of immunity passports? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/31/2020 • 5 minutes, 8 seconds
What is vlogmas?
What is vlogmas? Thanks for asking!
Well, there you have it, Christmas 2020 has come and gone faster than you can say “socially distanced celebrations! Some influencers will nevertheless be relieved to take some time off, after a full month of Vlogmas.
The idea is to post a video per day from December 1st through to Christmas, like an Advent calendar. Sometimes this practice can extend through to the New Year. So if you love vlogs and love Christmas too, well this is perfect for you.
Beauty and lifestyle Youtuber Ingrid Nilsen is credited with creating the tradition back in 2011, when she was known as Missglamorazzi. At the time, daily vlogging was relatively rare and the project was a spur-of-the-moment thing. Since then however Vlogmas has become a real phenomenon, with online content and searches growing year-on-year.
What’s the idea then - festive-themed vlogs?
Since Vlogmas first appeared, December has become an important month for influencers. It’s like a marathon for vloggers, in particular for lifestyle Youtubers. Every day is a new immersion into the influencer’s daily life, more or less around the theme of Christmas, taking in activities like buying and putting up decorations, last-minute shopping and of course unwrapping gifts.
Some posts get hundreds of thousands of views and a simple search for “Vlogmas” on Youtube yields a seemingly endless number of results.
It sure sounds like a lot of work during the holiday season! What’s in it for the influencers themselves then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/30/2020 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
What is a black hole?
What is a black hole? Thanks for asking!
The 2020 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to three scientists for their breakthroughs in understanding one of the Milky Way’s darkest secrets: the black hole. The winners were British physicist Sir Roger Penrose, American astronomer Andrea Ghez and German astrophysicist Reinhard Genzel.
The closest black hole to Planet Earth is situated 1011 light years away and it’s believed one exists in every galaxy. Black holes generally form when a large star collapses in upon itself. As you may have guessed, black holes don’t emit any light and are therefore invisible in space. Their pulling force is so strong that nothing can escape, not even light.
If black holes are invisible, how can we even be sure they exist?
Black holes are indeed invisible, but astronomers have come up with ways to locate them. They have had to closely observe material and stars around black holes, which allows them to better understand the characteristics and behaviour of the black holes themselves, like their size and mass.
There are actually three main types of black hole: primordial, stellar and supermassive. Evidence suggests that all large galaxies have a supermassive black hole at their centre.
Scientists were able to detect the supermassive Sagittarius A* black hole in our galaxy by noticing that stars were orbiting around something that couldn’t be seen. Their presence in other galaxies has been revealed by high-energy jets of material, which can be emitted when a black hole consumes a star for example.
How can black holes be so powerful that they can even trap light? Are you saying we’ve never been able to look directly at a black hole? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/28/2020 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
What is Western Sahara?
What is Western Sahara? Thanks for asking!
On December 10th, US President Donald Trump recognised Morocco’s sovereignty over the disputed Western Sahara region. The announcement came as a surprise, and has significant consequences, such as the normalization of relations between Morocco and Israel. Following the UAE, Bahrain and Sudan, Morocco is the fourth Arab League country to recognise Israel in recent months.
Situated in the North-west of Africa, the region of Western Sahara has a surface area of over 100,000m₂. It is one of the world’s most sparsely populated territories, consisting mainly of desert flatlands. It can be found to the south of Morocco, the north of Mauritania, and also shares a border with Algeria. The region has been contested for several decades now, and is one of the world’s last remaining major non-self-governing territories.
So who does the Western Sahara region actually belong to then?
Well, it was actually a Spanish colony from the late 19th century through to 1975. A self-determination referendum was due to take place that year, but Morocco expressed its opposition, having continually claimed the territory since the 1950s.
Following the Spanish withdrawal, Morocco annexed two-thirds of Western Sahara. It would go on to gradually secure control of around 80% of the territory, including all major cities and natural resources, which it continues to administrate.
The remaining 20%, the self-proclaimed Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, is controlled by the Polisario Front. This group is an indigenous independence movement which was founded in 1973, and has the support of Algeria.
What has caused the situation to escalate in recent months? Could this fighting have any impact on the US-brokered deal? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/26/2020 • 5 minutes, 29 seconds
What is Furoshiki?
What is Furoshiki? Thanks for asking!
In case you haven’t noticed, it’s Christmas Eve today, which means it’s time for the annual custom of last-minute gift wrapping. If you’re feeling creative, here’s an eco-friendly technique which dates back to 8th century Japan: Furoshiki wrapping.
Furoshiki is the art of wrapping objects in fabric, which was first used by Japanese nobles to protect valuable objects. The word literally translates as “bath spread”, as people carried their clothes in such fabrics when going to public baths. When sewing machines were invented, the practice became more and more common, for transporting shopping items or food. Until plastic bags came along in the 20th century, that is.
Is Furoshiki another victim of those damn plastic bags then?
That seemed to be the case, but increasing awareness of environmental issues has seen a furoshiki revival since the turn of the century. The Japanese Minister for the Environment has been promoting it officially for some time now, even publishing a guide on various wrapping techniques such as the Otsukai Tsutsumi, Katake futuro and Yotsu Musubi.
Great, I just wish I understood Japanese! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/24/2020 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What are the Christmas Blues?
What are the Christmas Blues? Thanks for asking!
Ho, ho, ho, Christmas time is here! For many people, the holiday season brings to mind decorations, gifts, and happy moments spent in good company.
But that’s not the case for everybody, and we would all do well to remember that. Some people find Christmas a difficult moment to live through, which causes sadness known as the Christmas blues.
Who are these people who don’t love Christmas then?
Well, there are actually several different types of Christmas blues that people experience. Firstly, you’ve got people who simply don’t like Christmas or find the period particularly joyful. Everyone has their own reasons, but it’s often linked to the apparent obligation of celebrating Christmas with false cheer. Some feel forced to see family members they don’t get on with, just because it’s a tradition that comes around once a year. And that can bring negative thoughts and feelings to the surface.
Others feel excluded and lonely during the holiday season, especially if they don’t have family around. It can be difficult to come to terms with being on your own, when everyone else is gathering with several generations of family around the dinner table.
Christmas Blues are also caused by the build up to the big day, which can be stressful for financial reasons. It’s no secret that Christmas goes hand-in-hand with gift giving. Many people are already struggling to make ends meet each month during the current economic downturn. So the pressure to spend extra money on presents can lead to feelings of shame about financial hardship.
So how can we help those feeling the Christmas blues, and avoid suffering from it ourselves? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/23/2020 • 4 minutes, 48 seconds
What is low tech?
What is low tech? Thanks for asking!
In the struggle against climate change, politicians are getting behind technological innovation. But some experts believe that, rather than high-tech, we should instead be banking on the simple, robust and reparable solutions offered by low tech. The all-powerful nature of high-tech has been called into question for decades, with regular controversies and debates on subjects like robots, satellites or artificial intelligence. As far back as the 1970s, author Ivan Illich published “Tools for Conviviality” about the proper use of technology, in which he argued that society should “give people tools that guarantee their right to work with independent efficiency”. In this day and age, tools are overwhelmingly controlled by specialists. For example, very few of us know how to build or repair a smartphone, car or washing machine.
Isn’t the awesome thing about technology that it’s guaranteed to become more and more complex?
Well not everyone agrees with that. Experts have warned that renewable energies, nanotechnologies and biotechnologies all use up scarce resources, which are complex and difficult to recycle. The idea behind low tech is effectively to do more, better, with less. From a technical point of view, a low tech object should be durable, robust and reparable or recyclable. It should also consume little in the way of raw materials and energy. So designers are coming up with low-tech houses, cars, agriculture and even computers. But remember that renewable materials don’t last forever. It would be foolish to think we can maintain current production levels with different techniques. So before figuring out how to optimise production techniques, we need to accept that producing less is a necessity.
OK so we’re talking about people who want us to go back to the stone age basically! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/21/2020 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
What is gender dysphoria?
What is gender dysphoria? Thanks for asking!
Gender dysphoria describes the unease that people can feel when there is a mismatch between their biological sex and gender identity. So for example a person with male genitals and facial hair might not identify as a man. This unease can cause depression and anxiety in some cases, and have a real impact on a person’s daily life.
How is this label different from more commonly used terms like transidentity?
The term transsexualism, which appeared in the 1950s, was used for almost everything until recently. In medical jargon, it has gradually been replaced. In 1980, the American Psychiatric Association included it in its list of mental illnesses, as a psychosexual disorder. In 2013, it clarified that gender dysphoria itself wasn’t a mental disorder, but that its main characteristic was the resulting discomfort. It’s important to recognise that not all transgender people experience gender dysphoria, as they may feel perfectly at ease with their bodies. In recent years, there’s been a shift in terminology, with gender dysphoria increasingly being used instead of other long-standing terms like “identity disorder” or “transidentity”. And yet, the term itself isn’t new! The notion emerged in 1973, around the time when gender studies were developing. It was coined in the United States by psychiatrist Norman Fisk and plastic surgeon Donald Laub.
What can people with gender dysphoria suffer from? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/19/2020 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
What is The Cartel Project?
What is The Cartel Project? Thanks for asking!
In early December, the Forbidden Stories consortium unveiled The Cartel Project, which continues and publishes the work of other journalists who are victims of threats, prison sentences or murder.
It takes its name from the work of Mexican journalist Regina Martinez, who was killed in 2012 while investigating links between drug cartels and politicians. Martinez was working for a weekly investigative news magazine called Proceso when she was found dead in her home.
For several months now, 60 journalists from 18 countries have been continuing her work as part of the project, and looking into the suspicious circumstances of her death. They come from 25 different media outlets, including the Washington Post, the Guardian, El Pais, La Prensa and Le Monde.
That’s impressive! How have all these media outlets managed to work together?
Everything has been coordinated by Forbidden Stories. It’s a global network of investigative journalists which was created in 2017. Forbidden Stories was also behind the Daphne project, named after Daphne Caruana Galizia, a journalist who was murdered in Malta that year.
But let’s get back to The Cartel Project. 199 journalists have been killed in Mexico since the turn of the century, with eight victims this year. These figures make it the world’s most dangerous country for reporters. A large proportion of these crimes are committed in the Veracruz region, where drug cartels have a strong influence.
Working on links between politicians and drug cartels in Mexico is certainly a dangerous business. Founder Laurent Richard has gone on record as saying the Cartel Project is the most dangerous investigation that Forbidden Stories has ever opened.
After 10 months of work, a lot of information has come out, in particular evidence that Mexican drug cartels continue to prosper with impunity for crimes against journalists. It has emerged that 99% of such crimes against Mexican journalists are never solved.
If it’s so dangerous, why is the project looking into Mexico in particular? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/17/2020 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
What is an mRNA vaccine?
What is an mRNA vaccine? Thanks for asking!
The first two COVID-19 vaccines to pass clinical trials have a significant point in common. They are both mRNA vaccines, and in fact, it will be the very first time vaccines of this kind have been made available to the public. Patients in the UK already started being vaccinated a week ago, but some observers are concerned by the unknown characteristics of this technology.
RNA is an abbreviation of ribonucleic acid. Inside our bodies, this substance transports the information contained in DNA, and produces proteins. Scientists have been aware of RNA for decades, but are still far from unravelling all its mysteries. Many studies have sought to find medical uses, like treating cancers or genetic disorders for example.
There had already been some unsuccessful mRNA vaccine tests in the past. But the Covid-19 pandemic really caused research in this area to accelerate.
What’s the difference between a traditional vaccine and an mRNA vaccine?
Conventional vaccine procedures see patients injected with either a weakened or destroyed virus. As a result, the organism learns to recognise it and produce its own defences. The difference with an mRNA vaccine is that the person receives genetic material that encodes the viral protein. After this is injected, the person’s own cells are able to produce antigens and generate an immune response.
On average, conventional viruses take between 10 and 15 years to develop. On the other hand, mRNA vaccines can be produced far more quickly, and at less cost, as they are constructed using only the pathogen’s genetic code. Given the gravity of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was essential to come up with a new vaccine to deploy on a large scale as soon as possible.
That all sounds great, but aren’t we at risk of becoming genetically modified humans? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/16/2020 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What is Fast Fashion?
What is Fast Fashion? Thanks for asking!
Fast fashion is to fashion what fast food is to dining. That is to say a poor-quality imitation, which everybody criticises but still nevertheless consumes!
Adopted by many clothing brands, this strategy consists of regularly bringing out new collections and offering low-price items. Customers are therefore encouraged to buy new clothes almost constantly.
These practices haven’t just come about by magic. They meet an increasing level of demand caused by expanding middle classes across the world, especially in developing countries. These consumers want more clothes and in particular cheaper clothes. The MacArthur Foundation estimates that by 2050, clothes sales will have at least tripled worldwide.
The fashion industry has no reason to sell less, as explained by Ryan Gellert, managing director for brand Patagonia
The apparel industry has become one of the most polluting in the world. As an industry we're creating product that people don't need by stimulating demand, and creating this sense that if you don't buy it now it's not gonna be available. There's this race to the bottom on price and quality that is an unsustainable model.
This all seems rather bleak, so what can we do? Stop wearing clothes and turn to naturism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is retrospective contact tracing?
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12/14/2020 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
What is microwork?
What is microwork? Thanks for asking!
Microwork is paid work which usually involves short and repetitive tasks carried out on a smartphone or computer. It could be identifying objects shown in an image, watching videos, labelling data, translating short sentences or recording one’s voice for example. Charging electric scooters or taking photos of products for an app could also be considered microwork.
That sounds simple enough; what is life like as a microworker then?
Generally speaking, each task is paid at a rate of a few cents so microwork is rather unstable. On the other hand, this kind of work is available to all as it doesn’t require specific qualifications. Another benefit is flexibility, with microworkers able to work when and where they want, as long as tasks aren’t time-sensitive. It’s as simple as registering on a platform which acts as the middle man between workers and companies. Amazon Mechanical Turk is an example of one such platform. Many companies use microwork to develop technology like artificial intelligence. To educate machines, we have to talk to them. For example, Alexa and Siri learn to understand our voices thanks to microworkers who record themselves saying all kinds of phrases, each with their own accent and sound environment of course.
And driverless cars are able to recognise trees and pedestrians thanks to humans identifying them on millions of photos. This form of work is relatively recent, having emerged in the United States in the 2000s. Back in 2011, it was estimated that microwork contributed $375M to the world economy. However, 22% of microworkers live under the poverty line. And there are other drawbacks too, in addition to the lack of economic security. Some may be demotivated by the apparent lack of meaning in their tasks. Often, microworkers don’t know the name of the company they’re working for, or anything about the project to which they’re contributing.
So are we saying robots aren’t yet ready to replace humans in the workplace? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
To listen the last episodes, you can click here:
What is retrospective contact tracing?
What is the Iranian nuclear program?
What is cultured meat?
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12/12/2020 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
What is retrospective contact tracing?
What is retrospective contact tracing? Thanks for asking!
Vaccine is the word on everyone’s lips right now when talking about COVID-19. While making a vaccine available is of course important, it’s not the only option for countries continuing the long struggle against the virus.
Another tactic, used successfully in Asia, but so far to a far smaller extent in Europe, is retrospective contact tracing. That aims to identify the source of infection of each case.
looped mind
Many European countries came out of lockdown in the early summer, with public authorities highlighting the importance of testing, tracing and isolating. That approach had limited success and since the continent was hit by a second wave, experts have been looking at how to improve tracing methods.
Until now, the main focus has been on identifying who else a sick person may have infected, and testing those contact cases. But now, it’s being suggested that retrospective tracing may be more useful, to determine who exactly infected that sick person in the first place.
If the person’s already infected, what’s the point? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/10/2020 • 3 minutes, 54 seconds
What is the Iranian nuclear program?
What is the Iranian nuclear program? Thanks for asking!
On November 27th, nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh was shot dead a few miles away from Iranian capital city Tehran.
Iran has accused Israel of being behind the assassination, using a remote-controlled weapon with the help of an exiled opposition group. Taking out Fakhrizadeh is seen as a direct attack on the Iranian nuclear program, which has been a subject of controversy for many years.
So when did the Iranian nuclear program actually begin?
It was launched in the 1950s by Shah Mohamed Reza Pahlavi, with the help of the United States. Ensuring the peaceful use of nuclear power was a critical global issue for some time, with the International Atomic Energy Agency formed in 1957 and the UN’s Non-Proliferation Treaty signed in 1968.
Then in 1979, an Islamic revolution took place in Iran, with Ayatollah Khomeiny taking power. The country’s nuclear program was put on standby and things weren’t helped by a war with neighbouring Iraq in the 1980s, which saw a nuclear reactor bombarded and destroyed.
Fast forward to the 2000s and Iran began to advance in the development of its Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant. Many international powers suspected the country of using the program as a cover for developing nuclear weapons. It was revealed that a uranium-enrichment site was under construction to the south of Tehran.
Were the suspicions founded then? What’s gone wrong since the 2015 deal? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is cultured meat?
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12/9/2020 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
What is cultured meat?
What is cultured meat? Thanks for asking!
The world’s ever-growing human population is eating meat in greater quantities than ever before. Yet at the same time, we’re also increasingly conscious of the environmental impact, as well as ethical issues around animal slaughter.
So imagine if you could eat meat without any animals being harmed, and with 96% less greenhouse gas emissions! Well, that is actually possible with cultured meat, which is grown via cell culture in a lab rather than from an animal. It’s also been described as “clean meat”, due to its perceived benefits, but this term has been criticised for not being neutral enough.
So how is cultured meat actually made?
Firstly, you take tissue cells from an animal and isolate them so they can grow in-vitro in perfect lab conditions. To do this, they need warmth and oxygen, as well as to be fed with salt, sugar and protein. The cells are effectively tricked into thinking they are still inside the animal they have come from. This enables them to grow and become food.
With this alternative solution, there’s no need to raise and slaughter animals. Energy costs could be cut by up to 45%, with water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions dropping by a massive 96%. Considering that livestock farming accounts for a sixth of global emissions, that would make a huge difference.
The world’s first cultured hamburger was introduced in London in 2013, by Pr Mark Post. His team from Maastricht University spent 2 years and $300,000 creating the 5-oz Frankenburger.
Since then, famous names including Bill Gates and Leonardo Di Caprio have invested in cultured meat companies, which aim to bring the phenomenon to the mainstream. By next year, cultured meat could be available at the same price as traditionally farmed meat.
Great, what are we waiting for then? Why aren’t we all already eating cultured meat? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/7/2020 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
What is impostor syndrome?
What is impostor syndrome? Thanks for asking!
Impostor syndrome is a psychological phenomenon which causes many high achievers to feel like frauds who haven’t really earned their success. Those affected think their accomplishments are simply down to luck, or other factors out of their control.
Up to 70% of people are affected by impostor syndrome at some point in their life, according to the Journal of Behavioural Science. In the worst cases, it can be a crippling barrier which prevents us from achieving our potential.
How did we get to know about impostor syndrome?
The term was coined in 1978 by American psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes. They first looked at impostor syndrome in female college students, but further research has shown that men also experience such feelings. Clance later created a multiple choice survey, scored out of 100, which helps individuals evaluate the extent to which they have impostor phenomenon characteristics.
Another impostor syndrome expert is Dr. Valerie Young, author of The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women. Young categorised impostors into five subgroups: perfectionists, superwomen or men, natural geniuses, soloists and experts.
Even some of the human race’s highest achievers can experience feelings of fraudulence. Award-winning author Maya Angelou is one example, as is Albert Einstein, who described himself as an “involuntary swindler”.
It’s important to underline that impostor syndrome isn’t necessarily a permanent state, rather a reaction to several factors which cause us to doubt ourselves.
Where does this need to put ourselves down come from? How can we effectively deal with impostor syndrome? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/5/2020 • 4 minutes, 47 seconds
What are minks?
What are minks? Thanks for asking!
After the pangolin, another kind of animal is getting increased attention due to Covid-19. That’s right, we’re talking about minks, which were recently culled in their millions in Denmark following an outbreak of the Cluster 5 coronavirus strain.
The fear is that this particular strain, hosted by minks, could prove resistant to vaccines being developed. French authorities have since taken similar action, albeit in far smaller numbers. Controversies around mink farms are actually nothing new.
That is the sound of the mink. If you’re having trouble picturing one, they belong to the weasel family, along with ferrets and otters. Minks are around 50cm long, have slender bodies and live in forests, alongside water. They’re semi aquatic predators and not afraid to hunt prey which are larger in size, like fish, rats or even swans.
There are two species of mink: European and American. European minks are in danger of extinction and this decline is likely due in no small part to competition with their American cousins.
What are American minks doing in Europe then?
Humans have been breeding American minks on fur farms for decades. Mink fur is soft, silky and warm, which explains its popularity in the fashion industry. During that time, some have escaped from captivity, or been released by animal rights activists, and provided fierce competition for European minks.
Does anyone actually still wear fur in this day and age? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/3/2020 • 4 minutes, 19 seconds
What is a mixtape?
What is a mixtape? Thanks for asking!
Not as long as a studio album, but longer than an EP, a mixtape is a collection of music from one or more artists, which is usually released free of charge and with little notice. This format came from hip hop culture and is now being used more widely in pop music too, increasing creativity within the music industry.
The name mixtape refers to the cassettes on which such compilations were originally recorded. The humble cassette may seem like an alien concept to anyone under the age of 20, having been created back in 1962.
At the time, it was a revolutionary invention, its compact design allowing people to listen to music in the street with a walkman, or while driving a car. Even better, you could even record music onto a cassette.
That’s how mixtapes emerged in the US hip-hop world: DJs would compile their tracks and the tapes would be passed around within the community. Younger generations may think of a mixtape as the equivalent of a playlist in today’s terms.
But since then cassette tapes have disappeared, haven’t they?
They have indeed, but mixtapes are still alive and well. The term has evolved and it’s now used most often to talk about a rapper’s first project, like a rite of passage. Or it could be a light release in between two studio albums. Often distributed free, mixtapes allow artists to create a buzz without investing the same time and money that goes into a meticulously worked album.
A lot of modern-day rappers, like Kendrick Lamar, Young Thug or A$AP Rocky, have seen their career take off thanks to a mixtape. Just last weekend, Lil Wayne released the third edition of his No Ceilings mixtape series. No Ceilings 3 is hosted by DJ Khaled and features guest appearances by artists like Drake, Jay Jones and Cory Gunz.
That being said, albums are still more accomplished works right? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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12/2/2020 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What is the circular economy?
What is the circular economy? Thanks for asking!
The circular economy is an economic system where all resources are continually used and nothing is wasted. Goods and services are produced in such a way that primary resources are preserved as far as possible. European policy aims to support the transition towards a circular economy, but it requires significant change.
The concept of a circular economy first appeared in the 1970s, as an alternative to the dominant linear economy model, which consists of a take-make-use-dispose approach. The increase in consumerism over the 20th century led to a tenfold increase in the extraction of natural resources, which aren’t always renewable.
So in concrete terms what is the difference with today’s system?
Think of the notion of a cycle, as the term circular economy suggests. Let’s take the example of an organic cotton T-shirt. Once used, rather than being thrown away and burned, it could be used to manufacture a couch. When the couch in turn becomes damaged, the cotton would then be recovered and reused to create glass wool. If years later the cotton fibres haven’t been exposed to chemicals, they could go back into nature, to grow more cotton.
Are we saying the circular economy is a kind of economic utopia? Is this transition likely to lead to job losses? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/30/2020 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
What is a unicorn?
What is a unicorn? Thanks for asking!
A unicorn is a privately-owned start up company valued at over $1bn when launched on the stock market. That’s right, we’re not talking about mythical animals, but economy and finance! The term was popularised in 2013 by venture capitalist Aileen Lee, with the choice of word reflecting the rarity of such success stories. Even more rare are decacorns and hectacorns, which have a value of over $10bn and $100bn respectively. Business analytics platform CB Insights reported that there were 450 unicorns in the world as of October 2020. That number has quadrupled since 2014. Some of the largest are well known, like Byte Dance, Snapchat or AirBNB for example, but most are unknown. Around a half of unicorns are American, and over a third are from Asia. Meanwhile, 16% are from Europe. According to GP Bullhound, the UK is Europe’s leading country by number of unicorns, with 30 in total and a combined value of $87bn. Five new UK companies have achieved that status since last year: Snyk, Checkout.com, Rapyd, HealthTech Babylon and MagicLab.
Are you saying all I need is a good idea to turn into my very own unicorn?
Well you need a strategy too and most importantly investors. Raising capital is where unicorns are particularly strong and to do that they go through external funding rounds. When a project appeals to investors, they take a chance on the future success of that startup. There’s no expectation of an immediate result, but in the long term investors will get back a return on their investment when the company is sold or launches on the stock market.
Well if a company gets to be worth over $1bn, its investors must become super rich! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/28/2020 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
What is Tourette’s Syndrome?
What is Tourette’s Syndrome? Thanks for asking!
Tourette’s syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder which usually begins in childhood. It’s estimated that around 1% of all school-age children and teenagers have Tourette’s, with boys several times more likely to be affected than girls. The main symptoms are involuntary sounds and movements known as tics. Some examples of physical tics are blinking, grimacing and shoulder shrugging. Meanwhile, vocal tics can be as simple as coughing or sniffing, or more complex like saying random words. More rarely, people may repeat sounds or sentences which can include obscenities. While it is often associated with the syndrome in the eyes of the public, swearing only actually affects around one in ten people with Tourette’s. The syndrome was named by French neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot, after his student Georges Gilles de la Tourette.
What causes people to have Tourette’s?
The causes and origins are still somewhat unknown. It’s suspected that a dysfunction in certain parts of the brain leads to abnormal activity of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Aside from being linked to reward and pleasure, dopamine is responsible for controlling body movements. Genetic factors also have a role to play; studies have shown that Tourette’s is highly heritable. Nevertheless, no single gene has been identified as the cause and it’s likely that many different ones are responsible.
If the tics aren’t permanent, how do they appear? Is there any treatment for Tourette’s? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/26/2020 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
What is Cluster 5?
What is Cluster 5? Thanks for asking!
At the start of November, the World Health Organisation announced that six countries had reported COVID-19 cases in mink farms. These include Denmark, which is the world’s biggest producer of mink fur, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Italy and the United States.This development led Denmark to take the radical decision of culling all 15 million minks in the country. The Prime Minister claimed a mutated strain of the virus, known as Cluster 5, had been transmitted back to humans, with 12 cases identified.
So where does this particular strain come from?
After spreading across the world, the coronavirus was transmitted from humans to minks. Its presence in these animals requires a mutation, which is how the Cluster 5 strain was created. And now the new strain has in turn been passed back to humans. According to the WHO, Cluster 5 has “moderately decreased sensitivity to neutralizing antibodies”, which could in theory threaten the effectiveness of a COVID-19 vaccine. Scientists believe the mutated strain of the virus was transmitted by farm workers to minks over the summer. During the mutation, it’s possible the spike protein of the virus changed, which is used to penetrate into human cells. Pharmaceutical companies seeking to develop a potential vaccine are mostly working on this particular protein. That includes the Pfizer vaccine, which the latest estimations have found to be effective in 90% of cases. There’s not yet any proof that this strain could scupper a vaccine, but the mutation identified means it’s theoretically possible.
If all those millions of minks have been culled, does that mean things are now under control? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/25/2020 • 3 minutes, 59 seconds
What are microplastics?
What are microplastics? Thanks for asking!
There are tiny fragments of plastic pretty much everywhere in the ocean, in the ground and inside animals, including humans! These are known as microplastics, and their potential impact on human health and the environment is a cause for concern. Microplastics aren’t a specific type of plastic per se. The term is used to refer to any fragments which are under 5 mm in length. Some examples are polystyrene, polypropylene, polythene and a bunch of other poly-things. They come from large plastic objects, like cosmetics or synthetic fabrics in clothing.
Where are microplastics spreading the most?
The obvious example is on ocean floors, where scientists have estimated there are 14 million tonnes of microplastics. Every minute, we fill the oceans with the equivalent of a garbage truck full of plastic. And then you’ve got microplastic pollution in soils. That causes damage to creatures like mites and larvae which maintain land fertility.
There must be some protected locations out there, surely? What about in the mountains or at the North Pole? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/23/2020 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
What is cultural appropriation?
What is cultural appropriation? Thanks for asking!
Think of Katy Perry in her video for This Is How We Do, Madonna in a traditional Berber outfit at the 2018 VMA awards, or Adele with her hair in Bantu knots to mark Notting Hill Carnival. That’s right, we’re talking about cultural appropriation in today’s episode. It’s a practice which has caused regular controversy in the world of pop culture. Most often, white artists are accused of using ideas, symbols or other items which come from non-Western minority cultures. The definition of cultural appropriation itself is somewhat controversial, with many saying it is often misapplied by the general public. Its meaning has evolved over time to have negative connotations. It’s problematic when someone belonging to a dominant community uses cultural elements from an oppressed people, for their own artistic or commercial benefit. In 1976, art historian Kenneth Coutts-Smith wrote one of the first essays to discuss cultural appropriation. He didn’t actually use the term itself, but brought together the ideas of class appropriation and cultural colonialism.
I don’t understand the issue, what’s wrong with mixing cultures?
It can be OK to mix several cultures, as long as it is a true exchange and not a one-way street. In the case of cultural appropriation, the minority culture doesn’t have the choice of accepting or refusing. In some cases, the original meaning of cultural items isn’t respected, or the elements are used in a way that reinforces stereotypes.The concept applies to more or less the entire cultural landscape. In recent years, designers and fashion creators have also come under fire for supposed cultural appropriation. High-profile shows have seen white models sporting dreadlocks or wearing African wax prints. Meanwhile at the same time in the fashion world, black models are underpaid or struggle to find work at all. So it’s not an exchange on any level. Another case would be rock and roll, a style of music which was taken from black musicians in the 1950s. The white-dominated music industry chose to promote white artists instead, with Elvis being the most famous example.
So what could they do differently? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/21/2020 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
What is Big Pharma?
What is Big Pharma? Thanks for asking!
At a time when the whole world is waiting for an effective COVID-19 vaccine, do citizens really trust the companies likely to be responsible for producing it? A few multinationals dominate the global pharmaceutical market and they are collectively known as Big Pharma. Common criticisms include a lack of transparency, lobbying and high prices.The term first appeared in the United States in the 1990s. Much along the same lines as Big Food or Big Oil, it describes an industry which is dominated by a small number of players. In the pharmaceutical industry, these are Novartis, Roche, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson and Sanofi. The 10 largest companies currently generate $500bn in turnover each year, a figure which has doubled in the last decade.
So Big Pharma consists of a handful of companies who have huge power on a global level!
Some observers have commented that they have even more power than states. The Big Pharma label is often used by conspiracy theorists, who believe these companies are hiding cures for cancer or forcing dangerous vaccines upon us. Most recently, it’s alleged that Big Pharma companies have deliberately blocked effective drugs from being used to treat COVID-19. All to inflate their stock price, rather than helping people with their health problems.
I don’t get it - does Big Pharma actually exist, or is it a conspiracy theory? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/19/2020 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
Who are the Grey Wolves?
Who are the Grey Wolves? Thanks for asking!
The Grey Wolves are a Turkish ultranationalist organisation which has come under the spotlight in several European countries of late. In France, for example, the group has now been officially banned, while there have been calls for the same action to be taken in Germany.
Tell me more about the history of the Grey Wolves and their ideology.
The organisation was founded in the late 1960s as the militant wing of Turkey’s Nationalist Movement Party (MHP). Its aims include creating a pan-Turkish state, stretching from the Balkans to Central Asia. The Grey Wolves ideology focuses strongly on Turkish history and identity, blended with Islam. Also known as the Idealist Hearths, the group is hostile to virtually all non-Turkish peoples in the country, including Kurds, Armenians and Christians for example. It has a history of political violence against left-wing activists, journalists and intellectuals, dating back to the 1970s. On an international level, perhaps the most notorious Grey Wolf member is Mehmet Ali Agca, who attempted to assassinate Pope John Paul II in St Peter’s Square in 1981. The Pope was shot and wounded, suffering severe blood loss, but nevertheless survived. The Grey Wolves salute consists of joining together the middle finger, ring finger and thumb to look like the side of a wolf’s face, while raising the little and index fingers in the form of ears. It was banned in Austria early last year, while German politicians have also proposed making it illegal, suggesting it is reminiscent of the Nazi salute.
Why are the Grey Wolves currently being targeted by European governments? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/18/2020 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What is food play?
What is food play? Thanks for asking!
In a sexual context, food play is a form of fetichism, where participants are aroused by the use of food in an erotic situation. Also known as sitophilia, it’s not necessarily a disorder or perversion as such. You could class it as a form of paraphilia, which is the experience of arousal relating to atypical objects or fantasies. For those who partake in food play, it’s mostly a bit of harmless fun which brings together two essential human pleasures: sex and eating!
OK, tell me more about what goes on in food play.
When solid foods are used, it’s most often for penetrative purposes. Their phallic shape makes them suitable for vaginal or anal insertion. Some examples include bananas, carrots, cucumbers and courgettes. Non-solid foods, such as whipped cream, honey or chocolate sauce can be spread over a partner’s body and then licked off.
I’ll never look at those foods in the same way again! Why would you want to bring food into your sex life anyway? Can this practice become problematic for individuals or couples? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/16/2020 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
What is Baby Shark?
What is Baby Shark? Thanks for asking!
On November 2nd, Baby Shark made internet history by becoming the most-viewed YouTube video of all time, with over 7 billion plays. This children’s song about a family of sharks is driving the whole world crazy, for good and for bad! No-one really knows where the song originally came from. It may have been sung in children’s summer camps in the 1970s, or invented following the release of Hollywood blockbuster Jaws in 1975. A German version called Kleiner Hai had some success in 2007. Whatever Baby Shark’s origins, Korean educational entertainment company Pinkfong was particularly taken by the song. It published its own version on Youtube in 2015, sung by 10-year-old Korean-American girl Hope Marie Segoine. The video features children dressed up as fish, making dance moves to represent various members of a shark family.
It instantly became a hit in Asia, largely thanks to K-pop groups singing it in concert. But only in 2018 did Baby Shark really go global. The Baby Shark Challenge hashtag went viral on TikTok and the song made it onto American TV, first on the X Factor and then on The Late Late Show where it was sung by Sophie Turner and Josh Groban. In 2019, the US Marine band even played Baby Shark at a White House ceremony for World Series winning baseball team the Washington Nationals. Baby Shark has been officially translated into eleven languages, including Spanish, Japanese and German. There’s also an almost endless number of remixes online, with various styles of music.
How can a simple children’s song become such a phenomenon? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/14/2020 • 5 minutes, 7 seconds
What is carbon neutrality?
What is carbon neutrality? Thanks for asking!
All over the world, states are committing to reaching carbon neutrality in coming decades. That means achieving net zero CO2 emissions, by not emitting more than what planet Earth is able to absorb. If humanity doesn’t manage it, climate change could quickly become irreversible. We’re already feeling the effects of global warming through heatwaves, rising water levels, flooding, mudslides and loss of biodiversity. And it’s only just getting started, unless humanity manages to follow the IPCC’s recommendations to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. That’s what 195 countries signed up for with the 2016 Paris Agreement. One of the main ways of meeting that target is through carbon neutrality.
Does that mean we’ll totally stop emitting CO2?
No, it simply means we’ll limit our greenhouse gas emissions to a level that nature is capable of absorbing. Certain reservoirs, known as carbon sinks, are able to absorb more carbon than they release. These include oceans and forests for example.
How close are we to reaching that balance right now? That’s a lot of work to do, in not a lot of time! How on earth are we going to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050? Isn’t there a way of removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/12/2020 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
What is Islamism?
What is Islamism? Thanks for asking!
A spate of terrorist attacks have been carried out across Europe in recent weeks, most notably in France and Austria. Political leaders have attributed the violence to Islamists, calling for a united front in battling this form of radicalism. Nevertheless, use of the term “Islamism” is somewhat controversial.
So what’s the difference between Islam and Islamism?
It’s important to make the distinction between the religion Islam itself, which is practised by all Muslims, and the separate political concept of Islamism. Islamism is related to forms of activism which advocate that society should be guided by Islamic principles. So that includes social and political life, in addition to individuals” personal lives. In some cases, movements call for Sharia Law to be fully implemented in an Islamic state, where non-Muslim influences would be removed. Sharia is derived from the Quran and fatwas issued by Islamic scholars. Most Islamists believe in peaceful mobilisation to pursue political change. But some justify the use of extreme violence, such as terrorist attacks. Well-known extremist groups include Boko Haram, Al Qaeda, the Islamic State and the Taliban. For example, Al Qaeda recently released a statement saying it is the right of every Muslim to kill a person who insults the Prophet Mohammed.
What’s so controversial about the term Islamism then? Are there other better alternatives to talking about Islamism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/11/2020 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What is a non-essential shop?
What is a non-essential shop? Thanks for asking!
Many countries in Europe and other parts of the world are experiencing a second wave of the covid-19 pandemic. A new lockdown began in England last Thursday, due to last until at least December 2nd. The rules are seen as stricter than earlier in the year, coming at a time when trust in the government is low. Certain businesses have already been designated as non-essential and forced to close during the four-week period.
So how do we know which shops and products are essential or not?
Well this can vary between countries as the rules are different. Prior to the covid-19 pandemic, there was no real precedent for governments to refer to. According to a dictionary definition, “essential” refers to something which is “necessary, indispensable or unavoidable”. In theory, the decision is taken primarily based on what is genuinely needed to survive. So you’re talking food and healthcare products for example. But other businesses are also allowed to remain open, like petrol stations, banks and hardware stores.
By that logic, you could make an argument for all consumer products being essential! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/9/2020 • 3 minutes, 53 seconds
What are Incels?
What are Incels? Thanks for asking!
Incel is a portmanteau word which is short for “involuntary celibate”. These people are single despite themselves, and have abandoned any hope of one day finding love or even sex. The incel community is overwhelmingly made up of young men, who are particularly active online, expressing their hatred towards women. Members of this subculture are obsessed by the fact that women apparently refuse to have sex with them. Ironically, the term itself was actually invented by a woman.
How can that be the case?
Back in 1997, a female Canadian student built a website known as Alana’s Involuntary Celibacy Project. She intended to create a community for sex-deprived people of all genders, to discuss their lack of sexual activity, whether it be due to social awkwardness, being marginalised, or any other reason. Since then, tens of thousands have joined incel forums online and community groups. But in most cases, they are straight men between 18 and 35 years old. Their common idea is that women are responsible for their long-term single status. Many incels openly display their resentment towards women in online posts, labelling them as “pathological liars” for example, or using misogynistic insults like “slut” and “whore”.
Incels have their own jargon, calling supposedly more attractive men and women “Chads” and “Staceys”. These people are able to choose their sexual or romantic partners, whereas incels can’t.
That’s violent language! Has Incel anger ever manifested itself in physical attacks? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/7/2020 • 4 minutes, 7 seconds
What is blasphemy?
What is blasphemy? Thanks for asking!
An act of blasphemy is an insult or offence committed towards a deity. Blasphemy is often a sensitive subject, and one which can lead to tragic consequences. So should insulting God or a religion be a crime or recognised as a basic right? The Abrahamic religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam have long condemned blasphemy. In the Middle Ages, the notion was written into law in certain places. It was feared that insults to god would anger him into causing natural disasters and contagious diseases.
Is blasphemy still illegal in this day and age?
It is indeed in some places, such as Italy where blasphemy is clearly outlawed. gavel Meanwhile in Germany, Poland and Greece among other countries, there are laws against religious defamation which could apply to blasphemy. In Saudi Arabia or Iran, blasphemy is punishable by the death penalty. Other countries have actually gone the other way and scrapped previously existing blasphemy laws, like Denmark in 2017. That was the case in France too as far back as 1881, when a law on freedom of the press was introduced.
Sometimes, the legal distinction can be subtle. While it may not be illegal to make general criticism of a religion, it is usually a criminal offence to insult somebody based on their faith.
There has long been a tradition of drawing religious figures in satirical cartoons or works of art. Think about the Piss Christ painting created by Andres Serrano back in 1987, or more recently the French magazine Charlie Hebdo, which has frequently published cartoons depicting the Muslim prophet Mohammed.
Such works make national or even international headlines, generating significant public debate. Amid the controversy, there is often a violent backlash from religious extremists.
If national laws are clear on the subject, why is there still so much debate around blasphemy? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/5/2020 • 4 minutes, 1 second
What is mental health?
What is mental health? Thanks for asking!
New lockdown measures are due to come into effect across England this week, following Boris Johnson’s announcement on Saturday. Pubs, restaurants, leisure facilities, most shops and places of worship will be forced to close, with remote work encouraged where possible. These new restrictions are sure to have an impact on the population’s mental health. The World Health Organisation defines mental health as “a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.” One in four people experiences some kind of mental health issue during their lifetime.
What are some signs of mental health disorders?
Well, there are over 500 different kinds, so the answer is it really depends. It could be something like difficulty in controlling emotions or getting a good night’s sleep. Then you have more serious disorders like bipolar or schizophrenia. The most common mental health issue among Europeans is anxiety, followed by depression. A study found that the continent’s most affected countries were Finland, the Netherlands, Ireland and France. Meanwhile at the lower end of the scale were Romania, Bulgaria and Poland.
These disorders don’t just happen overnight do they? To what extent is mental health recognised by states? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/4/2020 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
What is antimicrobial resistance?
What is antimicrobial resistance? Thanks for asking!
Antimicrobial resistance, or AMR for short, refers to how bacteria are able to become resistant to antibiotics. This phenomenon has been increasingly common since the turn of the century and is of great concern to public health authorities. AMR could become one of the highest causes of mortality across the world. Back in 1928, Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin, the first ever antibiotic. It was revolutionary in the world of medicine and antibiotics ended up increasing human life expectancy by 10 years! But the widespread uptake of such treatments has led to the development of AMR. To put it simply, antibiotics are becoming less and less effective.
So are we saying that doctors prescribed antibiotics too often, leading to this problem?
That’s partly true, and sometimes for conditions or illnesses which didn’t really require antibiotic treatment. But that’s not the only issue. Antibiotics are also used on animals, in livestock farming. Research published in Science magazine last year showed that resistance rates had doubled at some farms since the start of the century. When resistance develops in animals, it can be transmitted to human beings, especially through food. After being exposed to antibiotics, bacteria can evolve and develop defence mechanisms, eventually being able to resist the impact of medicine. Even worse, when this resistance develops in one species of bacteria, it can be transferred to others too.
In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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11/2/2020 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is K-Pop?
What is K-Pop? Thanks for asking!
On October 15th, Big Hit Entertainment debuted on the Korean stock exchange. If you’re not familiar with the company itself, you’re more likely to have heard of BTS, one of the bands they created. In barely 24 hours, the success of the IPO had exceeded all expectations. A single day of trading was enough to bring the value of Big Hit Entertainment up from $4.5bn to nearly $7.4bn. Also known as the Bangtan Boys, BTS are the most famous boy band from South Korea, and a global music phenomenon. Particularly popular among teenagers, the group’s last single “Dynamite” reached 350 million views on Youtube in under a month.
So what’s the magic K-pop formula?
There are two essential ingredients really. Firstly a flashy look, usually accompanied by an equally extravagant hairstyle. And the second key part is of course the Korean language. K-pop band members are generally young and quirky. Throw in a strong marketing push and you’re ready to turn these young people into stars. K-pop bands really are popular icons for the youth of South Korea. The songs themselves talk about various themes like friendship, love, life and death, right and wrong, and of course sex!
It sounds like a neatly packaged commercial product! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/31/2020 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
What is the Electoral College?
What is the Electoral College? Thanks for asking!
In the United States, the President isn’t actually directly elected by citizens. That responsibility goes instead to the electoral college. The system means it’s actually possible for the candidate elected president to have less votes overall than their defeated opponent. Since the year 1880, Election Day has taken place on the Tuesday following the first Monday in November. Next week, Americans will go to the ballot and cast their votes in the 2020 election. As you may well recall, four years ago Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump went head-to-head. What if I told you that Clinton actually won that election?
I’d say you were living in an alternative universe!
Well, Hillary Clinton received 48% of all votes, while Donald Trump got 46%. There was an overall difference of 3 million votes between the two candidates. Don’t get carried away, Donald Trump didn’t cheat. He did win the electoral vote. But Clinton won the popular vote. It was only the fourth time that had happened in the history of the US election.
How is that even possible?! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/29/2020 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
What is synthetic DNA?
What is synthetic DNA? Thanks for asking!
Humanity is faced with the complex issue of how to store and archive all the digital data it produces. Sometimes the solutions to our problems are right before our eyes. Or even in every cell in our body! Soon enough, we may end up using synthetic DNA to store our data. In the last few years, scientists have made significant progress in sequencing and synthesising DNA. We are now able to create DNA quickly, without needing to use chemistry. And this progress is leading to great hope.
But what’s the point of producing DNA?
Synthetic DNA can be used to create new medicines, produce better quality food and cruelty-free meat or leather for example. Researchers are trying to use this technology to meet a wide range of modern-day challenges. But we hear most about the promise of synthetic DNA in relation to the digital world. With the ever-expanding internet and increasing number of connected devices, there’s an endless amount of data that needs to be stored somewhere. For the moment, we rely on enormous data centres, which have to be permanently cooled, consuming billions of litres of water to do so. They’re expensive to maintain, they take up a lot of physical space and they’re really not good for the environment.
So are we going to replace massive hard drives with tubes of DNA? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/28/2020 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
What is tax evasion?
What is tax evasion? Thanks for asking!
Tax evasion refers to individuals, corporations, or trusts using illegal means to avoid paying tax. This could be by exploiting loopholes in the state tax system, or transferring property or business activities activity to another country with a more favourable tax regime. Meanwhile, tax avoidance, also known as tax optimisation, consists of using legitimate methods to minimise the amounts paid. Some companies and rich households do this by transferring their profits or revenues to a tax haven.
Hold on a minute - what’s a tax haven?
The OECD has been officially concerned with the matter since the 1990s. In 1998, it published an international report defining what a tax haven actually is.There are three criteria for a country to be considered as such. Firstly, a very low tax rate for companies and individuals compared to levels applied in other countries. Secondly, a lack of transparency in tax calculation. And finally, a lack of cooperation with other countries, with regards to the identities of tax declarants and the sums they declare. These fiscal laws often provide for banking secrecy, which guarantees the confidentiality of banking data, and a legal privilege which allows company owners to remain anonymous.
But why do these countries choose to have such a low tax rate? How can countries fight tax evasion then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/26/2020 • 4 minutes, 45 seconds
What is a think tank?
What is a think tank? Thanks for asking!
A think tank is a private group of experts who conduct research and develop proposals for governments. There are many powerful think tanks all over the world, and some are criticized for a lack of transparency. Perhaps the world’s oldest think tank is the Fabian Society, which was founded in London in 1884 and is still active to this day. It wasn’t until the 1970s that think tanks started proliferating. It’s estimated that there are currently over 6,000 across the world. The idea behind think tanks is that they connect researchers and politicians. Experts propose new ideas in various fields, such as economics, the environment, IT or geopolitics. Some think tanks involve confidential meetings with decision-makers, where they discuss their ideas. Others address the general public and share their expertise by means of the media.
So in a nutshell, think tanks are groups of researchers who want to make the world a better place!
That’s one way to put it, but they are powerful researchers, mainly from Anglo-Saxon countries. Since their rise in the 1970s, think tanks have contributed to strengthening liberal economic policies of the United States and Great Britain. The group called the Project For The New American Century also influenced George W. Bush's decision to wage war in Iraq. In the US, some think tanks have become “incubators” for the elite ready to be employed by the government.
But what's the difference between a think tank and a lobby? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/24/2020 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
What is QAnon?
What is QAnon? Thanks for asking!
The right-wing QAnon conspiracy theory alleges that the United States is run by a cabal of paedophiles who control the media and politics. The only person who can stop this cabal? President Donald J Trump of course. Critics have talked about QAnon beliefs as internet misinformation, while others have described it as a disturbing movement or even a terrorist threat. As a phenomenon, QAnon is quite recent. It first sprung up on the 4Chan online forum in 2017. A certain Mister Q presented himself as an informer who shares secret data of American intelligence agencies. His alias refers to the Q qualification required to access classified information. Since QAnon is anonymous, nobody knows who is hiding behind the 5000 messages published over the last three years. There are now thousands of QAnon groups on social media, amassing millions of followers.
And what are the main beliefs of QAnon followers?
Buckle up and hold on tight. A secret group of paedophile elites is set on world domination, at the same time organizing a child trafficking ring. Powerful figures like Hillary Clinton and Nancy Pelosi have sacrificed and eaten newborns, all the while filming the Satanist ritual. Presumably with the aim of obtaining the elixir of life. Luckily, Donald Trump was made head of the United States to become the saviour and clean up this mess. Over time, the movement has expanded to connect other conspiracy theories around historical events like 9/11 or the assassination of JFK, as well as anti-vaccine, anti-5G and anti-immigrant ideas. QAnon’s followers identify themselves as digital soldiers, waiting for the big storm which is supposed to put things back in order.
But technically, it’s just a conspiracy theory much like any other? Does Trump disavow the theory? This all seems very American, we should be safe enough over here in Europe, shouldn’t we? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/22/2020 • 5 minutes, 44 seconds
What is the anti-vaxxer movement?
What is the anti-vaxxer movement? Thanks for asking!
On October 1st the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention and National Foundation for Infectious Diseases launched the 2020-2021 flu vaccine campaign. According to estimates, nearly 200 million doses of vaccine will be available this season. What makes this year’s campaign special is that it’s conducted in the context of the global Covid-19 pandemic. A quick reminder: a vaccine is administered to immunise a person against a potentially serious infectious disease. In the past few weeks, calls for vaccination have become more and more persistent. Experts are concerned about the possible conjunction of influenza and Covid-19. Because yes, it is possible to get infected with both the flu and Covid-19. There are fears of a “twindemic” when flu season starts in the Northern Hemisphere. It’s seen as particularly important for certain groups of people to undergo vaccination. These include people over the age of 65, those who suffer from chronic diseases or obesity, and healthcare professionals. But some people are hesitant to get vaccinated themselves, or have their children vaccinated.
Ah yes, the famous anti-vaxxers !
Anti-vax is short for anti-vaccination. Just last year, the World Health Organisation listed it among the top ten global health threats. These people are either skeptical about vaccines or completely opposed to them. It’s not just because they don't like needles; the reasons they cite are much more complex. According to a Pew Research Center survey from September 2020, only 51% of Americans said they would definitely or probably get a COVID-19 vaccine if it was available today. That’s way down from 72% back in May. On a more global level, other research conducted across 27 countries showed that 74% would be willing to get vaccinated. China ranked highest on that list with a figure of 97%, followed by Brazil and Australia.
So are Americans the only ones who are skeptical about vaccination? But why are some people so vehement in their opposition to vaccines? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/21/2020 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
What is linguistic discrimination?
What is linguistic discrimination? Thanks for asking!
Also known as glottophobia, linguistic discrimination is a form of prejudice based on a person’s way of speaking. For example, it could consist of mocking someone for their mother tongue, accent, or the range of vocabulary they use. Victims of linguistic discrimination are judged and treated differently as soon as they open their mouths. Studies into linguistic discrimination date back to the 1980s. Researchers noted the difficulties that non-native-English speakers encountered at work in the United States. Linguistic discrimination is also seen as one of the main factors in turning down a candidate for a job. Sometimes, this form of discrimination is even more brutal. In some cases in China, ethnic minorities are forced to abandon their languages. Similar policies were carried out by colonialists in past centuries, like the British Empire in Ireland, Wales and Scotland.
But why would anyone reject people based on their accent?
An accent or dialect are an important part of a person’s identity. He sounds foreign, she sounds like she’s from the countryside, he doesn’t sound well-educated etc. Traditionally, accents heard on the TV and radio have been held in higher esteem. In the UK, 28% of people feel they have suffered discrimination due to having a regional accent. Across the Channel in France, linguistic discrimination is worst for those from the north of the country, but those with strong southern accents aren’t spared. Back in 2018, politician Jean-Luc Melenchon openly mocked a journalist from Toulouse for her southwestern accent in front of TV cameras. MP Laetitia Avia then proposed a new law recognising glottophobia as a form of discrimination, but the idea ended up being abandoned.
So if you have a strong accent, should you see a speech therapist to mask it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/19/2020 • 3 minutes, 43 seconds
What is malnutrition?
What is malnutrition? Thanks for asking!
World Food Day is celebrated every year on October 16th, commemorating the date on which the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization was created in 1945. Let’s take the opportunity to talk about malnutrition. It’s the consequence of a diet which doesn’t provide a healthy amount of certain nutrients. According to the World Health Organisation, this is due to excesses, deficiencies or imbalance in a person’s energy intake. So as you may have guessed, malnutrition covers both undereating and overeating. Undernutrition leads to excessive weight loss and stunted growth. Meanwhile, eating too much can lead to people becoming overweight, obese and developing non-communicable diseases, like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and certain cancers. Malnutrition can be a direct cause of death, and it also weakens the immune system, making people more vulnerable to other illnesses. That’s why it needs to be treated quickly and efficiently. When you combine the various forms of malnutrition, it is the number one cause of poor health and death in humans.
How many people are affected?
A Global Nutrition report from this year found that one in nine people suffer from hunger and one in three are overweight or obese. Malnutrition is already a problem in every country in the world and the UN estimates it will affect a further 2 billion people by 2050. It leads to more than 9 million deaths per year. Women and young children are the worst affected. Women are victims of inequality in certain countries, and don’t always have access to the food or resources they need to have a healthy diet. Children have more fragile immune systems and are therefore more vulnerable.
So social inequality and poverty are among the causes of malnutrition. What are the others then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/17/2020 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
What is LSD microdosing?
What is LSD microdosing? Thanks for asking!
What if it turned out LSD was more than just a hippy drug for those looking to go on a psychedelic trip? Researchers are convinced that microdosing, that is to say taking tiny quantities of LSD, could have a positive effect on productivity, pain and even depression. Let’s go back to 1930s Switzerland. Chemist Albert Hofmann is tearing his hair out, tasked with finding a new treatment to regulate blood pressure. LSD, or lysergic acid diethylamide, to give it its full name, was his 25th attempt, which is why it is known as LSD-25. It didn’t yield results immediately, but five years later Hofmann renewed his interest in the substance. He became the first person to ingest LSD, taking 250mg and experiencing an acid trip. So before hippies adopted LSD in the 60s, it was born in a lab. Many doctors, especially psychiatrists, sought to find therapeutic uses for it. But the war on drugs of the 1970s, and its prohibition policies, put a stop to that. Half a century later, Silicon Valley is bringing the substance back to centre stage.
Yoohoo, psychedelic algorithms coming up!
Well that’s not really the idea. Tech workers who talk up the benefits of microdosing only ingest a tenth or even less of a standard LSD dose, in order to improve their brain performance and overcome stress or tiredness. There’s no psychedelic trip, and it works with magic mushrooms too.
So once the drug of choice for hippies, LSD is now in the hands of capitalists! Is there any scientific basis behind all this? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/15/2020 • 5 minutes
What is a flight to nowhere?
What is a flight to nowhere? Thanks for asking!
With the Covid-19 pandemic putting a halt to long-haul travel, sightseers have found a new way to get their flying fix. Airlines are organising “flights to nowhere”, which take off from an airport, fly around for several hours taking in scenic views, and then land back at their original point of departure.
Great, I’ve been waiting months to take a flight. Where do I sign up?
For the moment, the phenomenon has been more or less limited to Asia and Australia. Back on August 8th, Taiwanese airline EVA operated a special flight to nowhere with 309 passengers aboard. To honour the event, which took place on Father’s Day in Taiwan, they used one of their Hello Kitty decorated A330 aircraft. In Japan, All Nippon Airways treated customers to a Hawaiian experience on board its “giant sea turtle” A380 which usually flies to Honolulu. Passengers were served with pineapple juice and cocktails, while ground staff wore Hawaiian shirts. Meanwhile, Qantas made headlines a few weeks ago after apparently selling out a flight to nowhere in just 10 minutes. Tickets for the seven-hour flight from Sydney Domestic Airport went for $787 Australian dollars in economy class, $1787 in premium economy and $3787 in business class.
Wow, it seems like flights to nowhere are the latest travel trend! But how about the environmental impact? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/14/2020 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
What is consent?
What is consent? Thanks for asking!
Public discussion around the issue of consent has been greatly increased in recent years, thanks to the MeToo movement, and the resulting Harvey Weinstein trial. So when can we consider that a woman or a man has actually consented to having sex?
It’s often blurry isn’t it? When there are lots of signs that make you think you have consent, how are you supposed to know if you actually don’t?
Whenever that question comes up, I like to share this little analogy. Imagine you offer someone a cup of tea and they first of all say “Yes please”. However, when the tea is then ready, they may decide they don’t actually want it. OK, it’s a little annoying because you went to the effort of preparing the tea, but that’s not a good reason to force them to drink it. They may have thought they wanted it, but they don’t want it anymore. People can change their minds from one moment to the next, even in the short time it takes for a kettle to boil. And importantly, they are perfectly within their rights to do so. Sex isn’t really worth having if you’re not in the mood for it or don’t take pleasure. Even if a person is a drunk, or they’ve said yes and then changed their mind, or it’s with their regular partner, nothing justifies forcing someone into a sexual act without consent. And if a person withdraws their consent at any point during sexual activity, you must stop immediately. So make sure to get consent verbally and by checking your partner’s body language, so you are sure they are participating freely and willingly.
So when do we consider that a rape has been committed? Are there situations in which people are not able to consent? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/12/2020 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
What is the US Supreme Court?
What is the US Supreme Court? Thanks for asking!
Following the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg in September 2020, Donald Trump made clear his desire to quickly appoint a new justice to the US Supreme Court. To understand the importance of this nomination, it’s important to consider the major political influence of the Supreme Court justices. The Supreme Court was created in 1789, thirteen years after the United States Declaration of Independence. It’s made up of nine justices, each of whom has a lifetime tenure. Talking about the institution in 1907, New York state governor Charles Evan Hughes said: “We are under a Constitution, but the Constitution is what the judges say it is, and the judiciary is the safeguard of our liberty and of our property under the Constitution.”
So are you saying the Supreme Court calls the shots in the US?
Not exactly, but that’s not a million miles away from the reality. It is the highest court in the US federal judiciary. There’s no real equivalent in Europe, as the Supreme Court both rules on litigation between federal states, and enforces the law on a national level. The Supreme Court is the protector of the constitution, interpreting it and ensuring its application. Furthermore, Supreme Court decisions are irrevocable, meaning no-one can question its authority.
What about the judges? Do they have significant power? What happens now that justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has died? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/10/2020 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
What is gaslighting?
What is gaslighting? Thanks for asking!
The term gaslighting refers to psychological abuse where victims are presented with false information by one or more manipulators. This is done deliberately to make them doubt their own memories and perceptions. The term originally comes from a 1930s play called Gaslight by Patrick Hamilton. The film adaptation, a 1944 psychological, thriller depicts a toxic relationship between a married couple. The husband, Gregory, becomes more and more distant from his wife Paula. He slowly manipulates her into thinking that she is going insane, to such an extent that she should be locked up in a psychiatric facility.
OK, we’re talking about serious abuse then!
Without always resulting in such extreme situations, gaslighting is nevertheless a form of abusive behaviour. The aim is often to make the victim start thinking: “Am I going crazy?!” It could apply in many situations. Politicians and dictators are often accused of gaslighting, for example. But the term is most often used to talk about manipulation in romantic relationships. It helps give a name to certain forms of behaviour that are common in toxic relationships.
How can I know if I’m being gaslighted? What should gaslighting victims do? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/8/2020 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
What is the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict?
What is the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict? Thanks for asking!
Just over a week ago, clashes re-erupted in the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region between Azerbaijan and Armenia. The region is to the north of Iran, and east of Armenia. It has a population of around 150,000 according to a 2015 census. Nagorno-Karabakh is an ethnic enclave, mainly inhabited by Christian Armenians, while Azerbaijan is a Turkish-speaking country with a Shiite majority. In 1991, after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the territory declared itself independent.
Why has the conflict picked up again now?
Azerbaijan and Armenia have disputed the region for several decades now. There have been long periods of ceasefire and stability, but also renewed border clashes. Last week, Azerbaijani troops entered Nagorno-Karabakh territory. The country’s minister for defense justified the move as a counter-attack, with the aim of ending Armenian military activities. Armenia, who provide military and financial backing to the Nagorno-Karabakh separatists, immediately mobilised its armed forces and declared martial law. Two days later, Armenia announced that Turkey had tried to shoot down one of its military aircraft, a claim denied by Turkey and Azerbaijan. A Turkish government spokesperson said: “Armenia should withdraw from the territories it is occupying, rather than resorting to this low form of propaganda.” Turkey has always been Azerbaijan’s number one ally in the conflict. And once again the country has announced its intention to help Azerbaijan “recover its occupied territories”. Since 1993, the border between Turkey and Armenia has been closed.
OK, so clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia are nothing new! What has the international reaction been? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/7/2020 • 5 minutes, 46 seconds
What is Peyronie’s disease?
What is Peyronie’s disease? Thanks for asking!
Peyronie’s Disease is a disorder caused when fibrous scar tissue develops inside the penis. It can result in the member becoming curved when erect. While most men with the condition can still have sex, for some it may be painful and erectile dysfunction is a symptom. The disorder isn’t contagious, but does transform the anatomy of the penis and can reduce a man’s sexual options, even making it impossible to have sex in the most extreme cases.
How does one get Peyronie’s Disease?
The exact causes behind the condition aren’t known for sure, but researchers have identified several possible factors. Many believe trauma to the penis can cause the plaque to form. This could be during sex, or due to an accident. In the case of repeated mild trauma, the patient may not even notice or remember any specific incident. Genetics may have a role to play when Peyronie’s Disease comes on over time, but there’s no definitive evidence to back this up.
Are some men more at risk than others then? What treatment options are available? Can the condition get worse with time? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/5/2020 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
What is a hysterectomy?
What is a hysterectomy? Thanks for asking!
A hysterectomy is a medical procedure whereby the uterus is partially or totally removed from a woman’s body, thereby making it impossible for her to become pregnant. In mid-September, a whistleblower alleged that forced hysterectomies had been carried out on unsuspecting migrants at an ICE detention centre in the American state of Georgia. Dawn Wooten, a former nurse at the facility, made a complaint of medical neglect and a high rate of hysterectomies to the Department of Homeland Security. She is quoted as saying: “everybody’s uterus cannot be that bad.” and claims the uteruses were passed on to a ‘collector’ doctor outside of the centre.
That’s horrible! Those women are victims of sexual violence.
Yes and it’s sadly not the first time that reports of forced hysterectomies have made international news. An investigation last year in India found that a number of female cane cutters were forced to have their uteruses removed, so they wouldn’t need time off work during menstruation. Women’s rights association Tathapi declared that 36% of females working on sugar cane fields were affected, even being forced to pay for the expensive procedure themselves.
Are there legitimate reasons for carrying out a hysterectomy? How is a hysterectomy carried out? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/3/2020 • 5 minutes, 2 seconds
What is an antigen test?
What is an antigen test? Thanks for asking!
Antigen tests are a rapid way of diagnosing a person with a medical condition. Common examples include tests for the flu, pregnancy and of course COVID-19. Antigen tests use antibodies to identify antigens in the body. The aim of a COVID-19 antigen test is the same as with the more common PCR test. That is to say, whether a person is infected at the moment of testing. There are several advantages to this method, but also some important drawbacks.
So what’s the difference between an antigen test and a PCR test then?
Both these forms of diagnostic testing are carried out by collecting a fluid sample through a nasal swab. But antigen tests differ from PCR tests in that certain proteins from the virus are detected, rather than its genetic material. Meanwhile, the serology test detects antibodies from a blood sample. Antigen test results can be delivered within 30 minutes. That’s much quicker than with PCR tests, which have to be processed in laboratories. Healthcare professionals believe this quicker turnaround will help to break down transmission chains.
Are antigen tests the best solution to improve the current COVID-19 testing times? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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10/1/2020 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
What is a Smart City?
What is a Smart City? Thanks for asking!
Nobody knows if the cities of the future will be full of robots and flying cars, but lots of engineers are working towards making them smart. Many dream of these connected cities becoming sustainable utopias, while others see them as the stuff of nightmares, with citizens under constant surveillance. The idea behind the smart city is to use state-of-the-art technologies to manage the usual resources and services that exist in urban areas. We’re talking transportation, drainage, lighting and policing for example. The end goal is to improve the quality of those services, and bring down the costs.
Interesting, but do we really need such developments?
We might not realise it at an individual level, but cities face a number of challenges. 50% of the global population lives in cities, a figure which is sure to increase further in coming years. All the city-dwellers out there use up resources, such as water and electricity, and create waste. Managing all this is complicated, which is where technology comes in to help. There are several examples of cities already using connected technology. In Barcelona, intelligent street lighting allows for energy saving. 10,000 LED lamps have been installed across the city, containing motion-detecting sensors. When no-one is around, the lights dim to reduce energy consumption. Meanwhile in Los Angeles, dumpsters are fitted with sensors to alert local authorities on their fill-level in real time. This prevents overfilling and means collection teams won’t need to make an unnecessary trip when the waste level is still low. Other examples of smart city technology include automated watering of plants according to ground dryness and police robots reminding people to respect social distancing rules. In San Francisco, there’s even an app which allows residents to send pictures of dog feces on pavements to the city’s Public Works Department. The name of the app? Snapcrap!
Are we talking about data? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/30/2020 • 5 minutes, 3 seconds
Who are the Uyghurs?
Who are the Uyghurs? Thanks for asking!
The Uyghurs are a Turkish-speaking Muslim ethnic group. Some 11 million live in the Xinjiang autonomous region of northwestern China. They are one of 56 ethnic groups living in the country.
For decades now, the Uyghurs have been subjected to systemic discrimination and intrusive surveillance from the Chinese authorities. But only in the last few years has the issue really been discussed at an international level. Human rights groups have repeatedly demanded official explanations of the repressive measures implemented.
When did repression of the Uyghurs in Xinjiang start?
Back when the People’s Republic of China was declared by Mao Zedong in 1949, Uyghurs made up 75% of the Xinjiang region’s population. In 2010 that figure had dropped to 45%, compared to 40% of the Han Chinese majority ethnic group.
It’s claimed that the Chinese powers set out to deliberately repopulate Xinjiang with Han Chinese, and diminish the presence of minorities.
Relations between the Hans and Uyghurs have been complicated since the 18th century. The Xinjiang Independence movement has long sought to establish the region as a homeland for the Uyghurs, wishing to rename it East Turkistan.
In response to the movement’s growth in the late 20th century, as well as 9/11, the Chinese government started introducing counter-measures. Last year, the New York Times obtained hundreds of pages of leaked Communist Party documents which exposed the intentional crackdown on Muslims.
These included secret speeches from Chinese President Xi Jinping, who expressed his wish to be much harsher and show no pity, after a Uyghur terrorist attack killed 31 people at a train station in 2014. In 2016, he appointed a new party leader to the region, charged with “deradicalising” its inhabitants.
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9/28/2020 • 5 minutes, 26 seconds
What is Peter Pan Syndrome?
What is Peter Pan Syndrome? Thanks for asking!
Peter Pan was the original Boy Who Wouldn’t Grow Up, a character from J.M. Barrie’s 1911 children’s novel. But some people also struggle with adulthood for a long time, due to the “real world” responsibilities it brings.
American psychoanalyst Dan Kiley noticed this pattern of behaviour in some of his patients during the 1970s and 80s. He wrote a book entitled “The Peter Pan Syndrome: Men Who Have Never Grown Up.” While Kiley’s work focused on men, the so-called Peter Pan Syndrome can affect women too.
What are the symptoms of Peter Pan Syndrome then?
Kiley noticed that many young adults were afraid of growing up and bearing the weight of adulthood on their shoulders. Once reaching an adult age, they continued to remain “kidults”.
It’s not a recognised condition with a clinical diagnosis, but there is some consensus about the signs and attitudes relating to Peter Pan Syndrome. Those who have the syndrome often struggle with relationships, showing emotional unavailability and avoiding addressing issues.
Finding or holding onto a job may also be a point of difficulty. Peter Pans might bet their hopes on a longshot dream like becoming a professional athlete or self-supporting actor.
The syndrome is often discussed alongside narcissism, as there are some similarities, such as a failure to accept accountability or a fear of criticism for example. But Peter Pans don’t necessarily meet the criteria for narcissistic personality disorder, or always have narcissistic traits.
So what’s behind this syndrome then?
A lot of the time, people affected by Peter Pan Syndrome haven’t fully lived their youth and have been thrown into adulthood too quickly. In other cases, it may be people who have experienced a
violent trauma which ruined their innocence at a young age.
To protect themselves, they unconsciously keep their emotional development at the childhood stage. Michael Jackson is a prominent example of a celebrity who was labelled as having Peter Pan Syndrome. Jackson said he developed his Neverland ranch to live the childhood he never had, having been an entertainment performer from an early age.
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9/26/2020 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
What is green hydrogen?
What is green hydrogen? Thanks for asking!
Green hydrogen is an alternative to fossil fuels which is made by using renewable energy technologies.
In reality, manufacturers have been using hydrogen as an energy source for years, but only grey hydrogen, which has a highly polluting production process. So could green hydrogen be the sustainable fuel of the future?
There are certainly promising signs; it can power cars, producing three times more energy than petrol for the same weight. Furthermore, it stocks electricity significantly better than our current batteries.
Wow, that sounds amazing. So, where can I find some green hydrogen then?
That’s the issue. Let’s go back to chemistry 101 and talk about the non-toxic colourless gas known as hydrogen.
If you remember the periodic table, you should know that hydrogen is element number one, and its symbol is the letter H. It’s the simplest element and the most abundant chemical substance in the universe.
However, it can’t be found in its pure state on planet Earth. Rather, it is found in various compounds with carbon, known as hydrocarbons. And of course in molecular forms like water, which has a chemical formula of H20. That means two atoms of hydrogen for one atom of oxygen.
Until now, manufacturers have used different techniques to separate hydrogen from other elements. For example mixing methane and steam at 1000°C or burning charcoal at over 1200°C. As a result, for every kilo of hydrogen produced, 10kg of CO2 is also emitted. Current hydrogen production pollutes as much as global air transport.
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9/24/2020 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What is environmental amnesia?
What is environmental amnesia? Thanks for asking!
Why are we so slow to become aware of climate change and act against it? The explanation may lie in our brains, which are affected by environmental amnesia.
This term was invented in 1999 by American psychologist Peter H. Khan. He theorised that humans were forgetting the history of the environment, or more accurately becoming used to its degradation from generation to generation.
Children tend to base their view of what is a “normal” environment on what they experience at a young age. This is true even though in reality they are increasingly growing up in polluted ecosystems.
When they grow older, it then becomes difficult to change their viewpoint, as that norm has become their reference point.
I guess it’s hard to ‘forget’ something you’ve never seen yourself!
Fisheries scientist Daniel Pauly discussed the similar concept of a “shifting baseline syndrome” in 1995. He noted that fishing researchers tended to assess stock based on the norm at the start of their career. That didn’t necessarily take into account that the stock level was already depleted compared to previous generations.
Many were unable to accurately identify the baseline population size of how abundant a species of fish was before human exploitation.
So why does this happen then?
We usually remember the history of our ancestors, from ancient times to the World Wars. That is because we are taught about it at school from an early age, whereas the history of the environment is seldom taught, if at all. In addition, many of us live in urban areas, further and further away from nature.
National Trust research published in 2018 showed that UK children play outdoors for an average of 4 hours per week, which is less than half than their parents’ generation.
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9/23/2020 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
What is Amazon deforestation?
What is Amazon deforestation? Thanks for asking!
Situated in South America, the Amazon tropical rainforest is home to somewhere between 50 and 70% of the world’s biodiversity, according to the World Wildlife Fund.
It stretches across Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Surinam, French Guiana, Ecuador, Bolivia and most of all Brazil, which contains 60% of the Amazon alone.
Huge fires are currently ripping through various parts of the rainforest, which could end up being even worse than the 2019 outbreak. This is closely linked to the issue of deforestation.
After more than a decade of downward trajectory, Amazon deforestation has risen abruptly in the last two years.
We’ve been talking about deforestation in the Amazon for a long time; when did it actually start?
Deforestation began in the 1960s, but went up considerably between 1991 and 2003. Several local, national and international factors are to blame.
There have been huge peaks in deforestation over the years, while measures taken by former Brazilian President Lula had some impact in slowing the rate in the first decade of the 21st century.
In 2009, a Greenpeace report claimed that 80% of the deforested area in Brazil was being used for cattle farming. Soy plantations were also cited as a key problem. Trees are cut down for timber, then the cleared land is used for grazing cattle or cultivating soybeans.
In the first six months of 2020, 3000km2 of forest have been cut down.The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation has stated that Brazil is the country where the most forest has been lost in the last decade.
What has happened since Jair Bolsonaro became head of state in Brazil?
Unfortunately, it’s had a real negative impact. When Bolsonaro became President in January 2019, deforestation immediately increased by 54%. And that trend has continued since.
Bolsonaro encouraged cattle farmers and miners to ramp up operations in the Amazon. Their deforestation is often illegal, with many accused of deliberately starting fires to free land for their activities. In 2019, exports of beef from the region went up 32%.
In addition to destroying biodiversity, deforestation threatens the lives of native tribes living in the Amazon. In 2020, the Brazilian government proposed a draft bill allowing mining and farming to take place on indigenous lands.
Human activity and global warming are pushing the situation to a point of no return. Scientists say it may already be too late for the Amazon rainforest to regenerate.
A few different scenarios have been outlined. The World Bank claims that 40% of the Amazon will have disappeared by 2050. Meanwhile, the WWF believes it could be as much as 55% by 2030.
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9/21/2020 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What is transhumanism?
What is transhumanism? Thanks for asking!
Transhumanism is all about improving the human condition by enhancing our intellect and physiology.
From 2021, billionaire Elon Musk is planning to test brain implants on human beings. With his Neuralink device, he is looking to create an interface to treat and enhance our brains. So is the merging of man and machine just around the corner?
The transhumanist movement advocates surpassing our biological limits through technology. That means using tools such as implants or chips to cure illnesses, improve performance and even prevent death. And humans have been dreaming of immortality since time began. Transhumanism is a bit like the digital version of the fountain of youth or the philosopher’s stone.
But this time around, it’s not a fantasy - are we really are going to become transhumans?
Elon Musk, head of Tesla and Starlink, believes strongly in transhumanism. His Neuralink project promises to create a neural interface which cures epilepsy or Parkinson’s. With time, the aim is to allow our brains to communicate directly with computers.
In late August, he introduced a pig called Gertrude at a press demo. The Neuralink brain-machine interface was implanted in her brain, with her brain signals analysed by a computer which could predict her movements. Musk used the occasion to announce that American health authorities had given permission for similar tests on humans to begin in 2021.
But beyond PR and marketing, the reality is that Musk himself hasn’t really invented anything. Such techniques have been around for years. One of the first examples dates back to 2006, when scientists helped Matthew Nagle, a young paralysed man, to control a mouse cursor using a chip in his brain! Since then, mind-controlled prosthetic arms and hands have also been developed, sometimes without the need for a brain implant. Thanks to these transhuman inventions, scientists hope to make blind people see again and help paralysed people to walk.
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9/19/2020 • 4 minutes, 32 seconds
What is OPEC?
What is OPEC? Thanks for asking!
The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries is an international cartel currently made up of thirteen member states. Over the years, it has played an important role in the global economy, coordinating the petroleum policies of its members. But right now, its influence is waning, due in no small part to the Covid-19 pandemic.
OPEC was created in 1960 in Baghdad. At the time, there was a high level of competition between petrol companies, meaning prices were low. The main petrol-producing Arabic countries therefore decided to join forces to rival Western companies. Together, they decided to produce less petrol, forcing prices up as a result.
All about supply and demand, huh!
And it worked! That’s how founding members Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran, Kuwait and Venezuela increased their power on the international scene. By determining petrol prices, they were directly influencing the world economy. OPEC’s actions even led to the first oil crisis in 1973. During the Yom Kippur war, its members decided to stop supplying petrol to allies of Israel. The effect was immediate, with the price of a barrel increasing fourfold in just a few months.
Despite this exploit, OPEC member countries haven’t always enjoyed great diplomatic relations between one another. Due to wars and disunity, its influence on petrol prices is more and more limited. OPEC’s current member countries are between them home to over 80% of the world’s proven oil reserves.
Wow, they really are the petroleum cartel!
And yet combined they only account for 40% of global oil production. That’s because OPEC has serious competition from other countries, in particular the United States. In the last few decades, the US has become the number one petroleum producer in the world.
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9/17/2020 • 5 minutes, 6 seconds
What is Novichok?
What is Novichok? Thanks for asking!
Novichok is a family of chemical agents which disrupts communication between nerves and muscles. Its name means newcomer in Russian and it was developed in closed laboratories during the Cold War, as part of the Soviet Foliant programme.
The international community only discovered the existence of Novichok in the early 1990s, after a Russian chemist revealed the truth about the programme in a Moscow daily newspaper.
In early September 2020, Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny came out of the medically induced coma he had been in for three weeks. Tests carried out at a military laboratory in Germany, where Navalny was hospitalised, showed that he had been poisoned with a Novichok nerve agent.
The substance exists in two forms: liquid, which can be mixed into food or drink; and solid, as a powder.
Is Novichok poisoning lethal then?
Novichoks bind to the acetylcholinesterase enzyme, known as AChE for short. Its role is to break down the acetylcholine neurotransmitter when released into synapses.
Symptoms of novichok poisoning can include nausea, spasms, heart failure and respiratory arrest, leading to death through suffocation. The lack of oxygen can quickly lead to significant brain damage.
Novichok agents are at least five times as lethal as other chemical agents such as VX or Sarin. Anyone who has been poisoned needs immediate medical attention if they are to survive.
In the case of Navalny, he started feeling the effects of the poisoning on August 20th, while on a flight from Siberia to Moscow. He was then quickly evacuated to Berlin in a medical airplane.
Although Navalny has now come out of his coma, doctors can’t rule out long-term effects.
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9/16/2020 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
What is negationism?
What is negationism? Thanks for asking!
Historical negationism refers to the practice of manipulating historical records to deny that certain events happened, or distort the narrative around them.
The term is relatively recent, having been coined by French historian Henry Rousso in 1987, relating to Holocaust Denial. Six million Jews were murdered by the Nazi regime during the Second World War.
Holocaust denial is certainly one of the most well-known and common examples of negationism. But similar distortion strategies have been seen relating to other genocides and war crimes across the world.
Negationism is a crime in some countries like Germany, while elsewhere the approach is more cautious, due to questions about freedom of speech. Other laws can apply to negationist statements, if they are also of a hateful or discriminatory nature.
So what exactly does negationism look like?
Techniques include using forged documents to justify an alternative version of events, creating doubt about genuine documents, manipulating statistics and deliberately mistranslating texts. Then you’ve got the destruction of physical evidence through book burning or smashing statues.
In the case of Holocaust Denial, some deny the existence of the gas chambers in concentration camps. They downplay the extent of Hitler’s Final Solution, claiming that the Nazis merely deported Jews and didn’t exterminate them. Others recognise that there was mass murder, but put the death toll significantly lower than the accepted figure of 5-6 million.
Surveys in recent years have shown there is still a shocking level of Holocaust denial in the 21st century. Just last year, a survey found that 5% of UK adults do not believe the Holocaust took place. In other regions, like Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, awareness levels are much lower. But among those who have heard of the Holocaust, only half or less believe it has been accurately described by history.
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9/14/2020 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
What is the Great Barrier Reef?
What is the Great Barrier Reef? Thanks for asking!
The Great Barrier Reef is planet Earth’s largest living structure. It has remarkably rich biodiversity, but is gradually disappearing due to pollution caused by humans. Tourists have been absent from the reef since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. But paradoxically, this isn’t likely to help the situation. The reef is located in the sea off the coast of North-East Australian territory Queensland. Its surface area is larger than that of Italy and it can even be seen from space! In some places the corals can be found several miles underwater; in others just under the surface. According to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, the diverse Reef ecosystem is home to 1625 species of fish, including 1400 coral reef species. Then you’ve got over 3000 species of molluscs, 630 species of echinoderm, 14 breeding species of sea snakes, 215 species of birds, six species of marine turtles, 30 species of whales and dolphins, 133 species of sharks and rays, and much more. Among them are many vulnerable and endangered species.
Well it sounds like they won’t be there for much longer, if the situation is as bad as I understand?
Indeed, the Great Barrier Reef is under threat. It’s estimated that up to half the corals have disappeared in the last few years. One of the biggest dangers to the reef is the crown-of-thorns starfish, which feeds on coral and has few predators.
So why are they suddenly invading the Barrier Reef? And what about the tourism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/12/2020 • 5 minutes, 18 seconds
What is cancel culture?
What is cancel culture? Thanks for asking!
Cancel culture is the popular practice of withdrawing support for an individual or company, to such an extent that they become irrelevant as a result. This is usually due to something the person has done or said that is considered offensive. Cancel culture has become an effective tool for so-called social justice movements, with feminist, antiracist and LGBTQ+ activists incr easingly adopting the tactic. It tends to involve the use of social media to call for a boycott of an individual, who may or may not be a public figure. This online shaming can include fair criticism, insulting and harassment to destroy the person’s reputation. Many have suggested that cancel culture has now gone too far, including former US President Barack Obama.
Well, internet users can be very sensitive can’t they? One clumsy tweet and social media goes into a frenzy!
And it’s not just present-day tweets that are used as justification for “cancelling” someone. In some cases, posts from many years ago have been dug up, screenshotted and shared all over the internet. The term “clicktivists” is used mostly in a negative way to label those who use social media to shame others online, mainly to boost their own egos. In July 2020, a group of 150 activists, writers and academics called for an end to cancel culture. Part of their open letter, which was published in Harper’s Bazaar magazine, reads as follows: “The free exchange of information and ideas, the lifeblood of a liberal society, is daily becoming more constricted.” J.K. Rowling, Salman Rushdie and Margaret Atwood were among those to put their name to the letter.
Cancel culture is all the rage at the moment, isn’t it?! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/10/2020 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
What is the Louise Michel?
What is the Louise Michel? Thanks for asking!
The news was broken as an exclusive by the Guardian less than two weeks ago, drawing attention to a crisis which has been getting worse since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Famous British street artist Banksy had funded a project to carry out rescue missions in the Mediterannean Sea, which more and more migrants are trying to cross from North Africa to Europe. To do this, he relaunched a former French navy boat, 30 metres long, painted in pink and depicting a young girl with windswept hair, holding out a heart-shaped safety buoy. The name of the boat? The Louise Michel, after the 19th century French anarchist feminist of the same name.
Well that’s a fitting name for such a project!
On board the Louise Michel are 10 European activists who have significant experience in sea rescue. The NGO vessel is commanded by German captain Pia Klemp, whose ships have saved several thousand people in recent years. An email sent from Banksy to Klemp last year reads as follows: “Hello Pia, I’ve read about your story in the papers. You sound like a badass.” He then offered to buy a boat with the money he had made from his migrant crisis-themed artwork. The plan was carried out secretly between London, Berlin and Spain, so that European authorities would be totally unaware. The boat’s existence only became public knowledge due to having saved 90 people, off the coast of Libya. Some of those survivors had fuel burns and other injuries. The crew carried out a second rescue mission the same night, taking the total number of migrants saved to 220. One person had already died when found on a rubber dinghy. The Louise Michel being able to accommodate a maximum capacity of 120 people, many had to spend several hours on a liferaft deployed alongside. Unable to move their boat, the crew made repeated emergency calls for assistance to Malta and Italy, the closest European countries.
Did anyone come to their help? So will the migrants now be sent to a place of safety in Europe? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/9/2020 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
What is collapsology?
What is collapsology? Thanks for asking!
Collapsology is the transdisciplinary study of how our industrial civilisation could collapse, and indeed what may come afterwards. Its ideas are gaining in visibility and popularity. The term collapsology is a neologism, having been created in 2015. It was popularised by French authors Pablo Servigne and Raphael Stevens, who that year published a book called How Everything Can Collapse. As far back as 1972, the Meadow Report published by MIT researchers warned of the risks of exponential population and economic growth on a planet where resources are limited. One of the main ideas of collapsology is that human activity is affecting the planet in a negative and lasting way. It is to blame for global warming, a loss of biodiversity and the increase in natural disasters.
Well, there’s nothing new in those ideas, really.
Collapsologists go even further by linking what Servigne and Stevens call “systemic instabilities''. This refers to the various crises the world is undergoing: Economic, health, environmental, war, democractic, and so on. Worse still, it’s already too late to save the situation. The combined impact would see civilisation as we know it collapse by 2050. Collapsologists say that by then, us humans will be faced with drastic food, water and housing shortages.
So we’re all screwed then! In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/7/2020 • 3 minutes, 37 seconds
What is flexitarianism?
What is flexitarianism? Thanks for asking!
Flexitarianism is a portmanteau word combining flexible and vegetarianism. It’s a mostly vegetarian way of eating which nevertheless allows for occasional meat dishes. The aim is to reduce red meat and animal protein consumption, replacing them with high-protein plant foods.This type of diet is becoming increasingly common, and the word flexitarian was added to the Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary in 2012.
So if I understand correctly, being flexitarian is basically being a part-time vegetarian.
That’s more or less right. Many people try flexitarianism as preparation for going full veggie. It makes the transition easier, without making you feel like you’re going cold turkey. All foods are allowed. Fruit, vegetables, cereal, dairy products and fats can be eaten every day, along with an occasional serving of meat or fish, when there’s no plant-based alternative. Flexitarians don’t only limit the quantity of meat in their diet. On the occasions they do eat meat, they also pay close attention to where products come from. They may choose to only consume meat and produce that has come from an organic farm, where animals are raised free-range. Sustainability is a key concern, as meat production has a high carbon footprint. It’s estimated that livestock is responsible for 18% of all greenhouse gas emissions. More and more people are avoiding meat, in order to eat more responsibly.
But I’ve been eating meat all my life. How am I supposed to know how to cook and eat all these plant-based products? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/5/2020 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
What is a super-spreader?
What is a super-spreader? Thanks for asking!
While summer 2020 draws to an end, the COVID-19 pandemic is far from being over. Some European countries are seeing increased infection rates and have reinforced public health measures in anticipation of a second wave. A recent Scottish study suggested that just 10% of those infected could be responsible for 80% of infections. The term super-spreaders has emerged to describe those who spread the virus to a greater number of people than the R0 reproduction rate.
So are these 10% to blame for everyone else getting contaminated?
It’s not quite that simple. Everything is linked to that R0 rate; the average number of people we infect when we have a contagious disease. Of course if the R0 rate was three, not every single person would have the same level of infectivity - it’s just an average. Some would infect many more than three, and others none at all. So there are other important indicators to take into account. Firstly you’ve got the dispersion factor, which is represented by the K value. This sheds light on how the transmission rate varies. As Dr Adam Kucharski recently told The Guardian: “The general rule is that the smaller the K value is, the more transmission comes from a smaller number of infectious people.” The latest studies suggest that the K value for COVID-19 is between 0.1 and 0.5, which seems to back up the idea that super-spreaders are generating the majority of transmissions.
Who are these super-spreaders then? It sounds like children do in fact spread COVID-19 after all? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/3/2020 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
What is fan fiction?
What is fan fiction? Thanks for asking!
Fan fiction refers to texts written by a fan using characters or storylines from another existing story, usually a popular novel, series, film or video game. They are also known as fanfics, and in the digital age, the quantity of such works is exploding! Fan fiction has even become recognised as a literary genre, and has created a unique niche for itself in the publishing industry. Fan fictions were first published in the 1960s and 70s. Star Trek fans have long been known for their passionate following. So it’s little surprise that Trekkies came up with the first early such texts in their fanzines. A similar trend emerged around the same time in Japan. Manga fans began producing independently published comics and novels, known as doujinshi. The creation of the internet allowed fan fiction to develop on dedicated sites and forums. The largest online collection can be found at fanfictions.net. The site has over 2.2 million registered users, who write in 40 different languages!
What are the common characteristics of fan fiction then?
Generally speaking, a piece of fan fiction focuses on one or more characters. The author looks more closely at the character’s personality and psychology. Certain elements of the original story, like the main characters and settings, remain unchanged. This part of the source narrative is referred to as “canon” by fans, which is short for canonical fictional universe. But a fanfic can also take place in an alternative universe, known as an AU. Fan fiction terminology includes an extensive range of genres, subgenres and other jargon terms. For example, slash fiction tells stories about relationships between two characters of the same sex, like Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson. The most well-known franchises like Star Wars, Harry Potter and Marvel comics have hundreds or thousands of fanfics. Harry Potter in particular inspired the imagination of fans, with a multitude of alternative endings emerging. How about Voldemort triumphing at the end of the series? Or a love triangle between Harry, Ron and Hermione?
It can’t be easy for an unknown writer to make a name for themselves creating fan fiction, right? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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9/2/2020 • 5 minutes, 38 seconds
What is an authoritarian regime?
What is an authoritarian regime? Thanks for asking!
An authoritarian regime is a form of government which monopolises authority and restricts political freedoms. Such regimes have strong central power and little accountability to their population. Authoritarianism is effectively the opposite of democracy. The term has come back into the news of late, with the reelection of Alexander Lukashenko as President of Belarus. He will now serve a sixth consecutive term, having remained head of state since 1994. His regime is considered authoritarian. Indeed, international media often refer to Lukashenko as “Europe’s last dictator”.
So what are the characteristics of an authoritarian regime?
One that immediately springs to mind is repression. Authoritarian regimes often resort to illegitimate tactics to enforce their power, such as the use of force. Another is how political opponents are, let’s say, ‘controlled’. That’s a euphemism because they are often imprisoned or disappear completely. Political pluralism is restricted and any anti-regime activities are swiftly suppressed. There are no trade unions and no NGOs. And the list goes on and on. Under an authoritarian regime, violating the freedom of the press and locking up journalists are common practice. This happens frequently in countries like China, Iran and Egypt. National television channels are run by the state, with no place for independent media, who often end up in exile from their home country. To enforce censorship, some authoritarian regimes have cut internet access.This was done for a five-day period in Gabon in 2016, after the announcement of President Ali Bongo’s reelection. Meanwhile, other regimes in Kazakhstan, Iraq and Iran have forced citizens to use an internet certificate in order to monitor their browsing activity.
Are there many authoritarian regimes in the world today? And why don’t other countries take sanctions against them?
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8/31/2020 • 4 minutes, 42 seconds
What is the Istanbul Convention?
What is the Istanbul Convention? Thanks for asking!
The Istanbul Convention is an international human rights treaty which was signed in 2011 by 45 European countries. It came into effect in August 2014 and was the first legally binding instrument to establish rules combatting violence against women. Its full name is the ‘Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence’. A bit of a mouthful, we think you’ll agree! The Council of Europe is less well-known than the European Union, although it actually predates it, having been founded back in 1949. The organisation has a reputation for promoting the protection of women, due to several campaigns over recent decades. The convention’s main aims are to prevent violence against women from occurring, protect victims and ensure perpetrators are punished.
So what exactly is in the convention?
Like all European texts, the convention is set out in a specific, structured way. writing sound It has 81 articles and 12 chapters, defining gender violence as a violation of human rights. The preamble states that “violence against women is a manifestation of historically unequal power relations between women and men, which have led to domination over, and discrimination against, women by men and to the prevention of the full advancement of women.” It also clearly sets out the acts and forms of discrimination which could cause physical, sexual, psychological or economic harm to women. So it’s a hugely significant text for countries which have ratified it, so long as they respect it. States have to put in place measures to counter such violence, carry out awareness campaigns and educate their population on gender equality.
Why is the Istanbul Convention making headlines now in 2020? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/29/2020 • 5 minutes, 18 seconds
What is OnlyFans?
What is OnlyFans? Thanks for asking!
OnlyFans is a digital content platform which operates on a subscription model. As with social media platforms, when you follow a user, you get access to that person’s content. Since being launched in the UK in 2016, the service has drawn criticism from some quarters. One key difference with other social networks is that it enables content creators to charge fans for access to their images and videos. It’s a whole new way for influencers to make money online.
So it’s a bit like a paid version of Instagram is it?
Onlyfans subscriptions tend to range from $5 to $50 per month. Once a fan subscribes to an influencer’s account, they can view their content and send them private messages. So the premise is that to see exclusive content, you have to pay. And the rules around what can be published are pretty liberal, compared to Instagram’s strict policy on nudity. In fact, OnlyFans has strong links with the adult entertainment industry, counting many sex workers among its users. Some media outlets have referred to the platform as the ‘Instagram of porn’. Users are allowed to share images of themselves in little or no clothing, and even pornographic videos. And it’s all completely legal, as long as the people in the images are of age. To create an account, you must be over 18 and submit proof of age. But it’s not completely all about nudes. Some musical artists are active on OnlyFans, including rapper Cardi B. What’s in it for them, you might be wondering? Well they can host private shows for their fans and share exclusive footage from the filming of a music video, for example. Fitness coaches also share workout routines and personalised tips. As paying subscribers, the fans are also to some extent customers. So there’s a certain expectation that content creators will regularly deliver new pictures and video clips, to maintain the link with their online community.
So why are people talking about OnlyFans at the moment? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/27/2020 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What is an oil spill?
What is an oil spill? Thanks for asking!
An oil spill is a form of pollution whereby petrol is released into the sea or ocean due to human activity. This is sometimes accidental, sometimes intentional. In both cases the environmental and social consequences can be disastrous. Just a month ago, a Japanese-owned cargo ship transporting 4,000 tonnes of fuel oil crashed into a coral reef near to the coast of Mauritius. The ship leaked nearly 1,000 tonnes of oil into the pristine waters, which are known for their rich biodiversity.
So what is the impact on the planet?
An oil spill is a real environmental catastrophe. The oil itself can cause irreversible damage to ecosystems by impacting the whole food chain. News coverage often includes dramatic images of birds or other animals covered in oil. Unable to escape, they generally die of suffocation. Then you’ve also got economic repercussions to consider. A huge effort is required to clean up the coastline, including suspending tourism in the affected area, as well as fishing and aquaculture. Cleanup teams sometimes use chemical products called dispersants. Their purpose is to break down oil into small droplets, clearing it from the water’s surface. This makes it less likely the oil slick will reach the shoreline. But some types have been labelled harmful by environmental organisations, due to their toxic nature.
Are there other ways of cleaning up after an oil spill? How do such large-scale disasters come about? And do they happen often? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/26/2020 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
What is Kairos?
What is Kairos? Thanks for asking!
The ancient Greeks had two words for “time”. The first, Chronos, refers to chronological time which can be clearly measured. Meanwhile Kairos is more about quality. It is used when talking about an “opportune moment”. As the saying goes, timing is everything! It was originally used in science by Hippocrates, who is seen as the father of medicine. He and his students suggested that there were two ways of failing when treating an illness: either taking action too early or too late. Of course in between the two, you have the opportune moment to carry out treatment. In rhetoric, kairos is a strategy based on the timeliness of a line of argument. Aristotle connected it to his rhetorical triangle of ethos, pathos and logos, teaching that in each situation, the right moment will come to use one over the others. So it wasn’t enough to simply express a correct idea. It was considered just as important to state it at the right time. Kairos is therefore also considered a mode of persuasion in rhetoric. In Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle introduces the notion of kairos to analyse human actions. Taking advantage of kairos is to seize the rare moment when our desires and fate coincide.
So how can I make sure I don’t miss out on kairos?!
In so far as many of the circumstances which define kairos are external, there are no strict rules on how to benefit from it. Seizing an opportunity isn’t an exact science after all. It requires finesse, flair, intuition and various other qualities. You can sometimes create a situation which allows you to communicate at the opportune time. Some observers have suggested making time for kairos moments on a daily basis, especially in the world of work. Kairos time may help us achieve objectives, reduce burnout and keep us passionate about what we do.
Do you have any concrete examples then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/24/2020 • 4 minutes, 5 seconds
What is a sebum cure?
What is a sebum cure? Thanks for asking!
The sebum cure is a natural hair care method, which consists in avoiding shampoo for a given period of time. Certain internet users have taken advantage of self-isolation to try the sebum cure without having to put up with greasy hair in public.
So how does it work and is it really effective?
Shampoo addicts know for a fact: greasy hair is a true vicious cycle. The greasier it is, the more you wash it, the faster it becomes greasy again. That might have to do with the aggressive nature of some shampoos which irritate the scalp, stimulate sebaceous glands and strip your hair off the sebum that protects the scalp from aggressive factors. So as a way of breaking the cycle of “it gets greasy, I attack it, it gets greasy again” certain influencers promote the sebum cure. The point is quite simple: forget about shampoo for about a month and let your hair get greasy! As you proceed with the cure, it is recommended however to brush your hair daily to remove dust and distribute the sebum evenly along the hair shaft. If you have long hair, in a few weeks the sebum will reach the hair ends and its secretion will self-regulate in a natural way. The hair coated with sebum will be just as well-groomed as if treated with vegetable oils, for example.
Proponents of the sebum cure stress the multiple advantages it offers: it facilitates hair growth, makes your hair more voluminous, softer and shinier. Self-isolation comes in handy. Although under different circumstances it’s also possible to go through with the cure by wearing your hair in a bun or putting on an accessory, like a headscarf. And don't forget to brush off the first jerk that comes your way: “Yup, my hair is greasy, do you have a problem with that?” Thirty days later, despite the joy going back to shampoo might bring, it is recommended to opt for a softer kind and take it slow!
But is it just a youtuber's trick or does it actually work? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/22/2020 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
What is a caffè sospeso?
What is a caffè sospeso? Thanks for asking!
Caffè sospeso literally translates to English as a ‘suspended coffee’. It’s an Italian tradition whereby cafe customers pay for an extra coffee that will be put aside, for a poor person to claim at a later time. The caffè sospeso idea can be extended to other types of food, and it’s seen a revival in popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic. It’s believed the caffè sospeso tradition was born in Naples’ historic Gambrinus café, around the start of the 20th century. The idea was simple: if a person felt like they had had a lucky day, they would pay for two coffees instead of one. The second ‘suspended’ coffee would later be given to the first poor person who asked for one. And by the way, you can suspend other items too, the concept is not just limited to coffee. It could be a sandwich, bottle of water or pastry for example.
Nice idea! Is it only the Italians who are big on solidarity then?
A similar principle has existed in Turkish bakeries for centuries, relating to bread. A customer asks for two loaves of bread, and tells the baker the second one is askida ekmek, translating to “bread on a hanger”, or “suspended bread”. Back in Naples and Italy, the tradition slowly became less common, perhaps due to the postwar economic boom, globalisation and ever-expanding tourism. That was the case at least until 2011, when the Mayor of Naples called for a return of the tradition, by creating a dedicated day called the Giornata del caffè sospeso. This development created a buzz on social media, and the practice of ‘paying it forward’ became known in other countries. Many appreciated this show of solidarity. From then onwards, other types of businesses picked up on this in Europe, North America and Asia.
So how do we know for sure that what we pay forward actually gets given out to a person in need? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/20/2020 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
What is a leap year?
What is a leap year?
2008, 2012, 2016, 2020... a leap year comes along every four years, lasting 366 days instead of 365 as you probably know. In a leap year, the shortest month of the year, February, has 29 days instead of 28. So if you’re born on February 29th, you only get to celebrate on that exact date when a leap year occurs. Every other year, you’ll need to decide on which date to celebrate: February 28th or March 1st. Most people opt for the latter out of superstition. People born on February 29th are sometimes known as ‘leaplings’, ‘leapers’ or ‘leap year babies’. Some famous leaplings include rapper Ja Rule, actress Caitlin E.J. Meyer and motivational speaker Tony Robbins. Leaplings should beware the leap year bug, which affects computer systems that are programmed with the rule that a year always has 365 days. Similar issues can affect administrative paperwork.
So where did the weird idea of adding an extra calendar day every four years come from?
We actually measure time based on planet Earth’s rotations on its own axis and orbits around the sun. The planet takes one day to fully rotate around itself, like a spinning top! It takes a lot longer to complete one full orbit of the sun however, adding up to one year or slightly over 365 days. This is known as a tropical or solar year. That’s right, the duration is over 365 days because a tropical year is never made up of an exact number of days. When the Earth gets back to its starting position after a full orbit, it has rotated 365 times on its own axis, plus an additional quarter-rotation which makes all the difference. If you want to be really precise, you should know that the exact length of a tropical year can vary by up to 30 minutes. We could simply delay the start of every year by a quarter of a day to compensate for the difference. But that would end up affecting the time of day, as well as our system of seasons in a year. So we stick to 365 days, and add an extra day every leap year to best synchronize with our calendar.
So how far back was this system created and who decided on it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/19/2020 • 5 minutes, 19 seconds
What is nudge theory?
What is nudge theory? Thanks for asking!
Nudge theory was developed back in 2008 by future Nobel Prize winner Richard Thaler, along with legal scholar Cass Sunstein. The concept is part of behavioural economics, and uses positive reinforcement to influence groups and individuals. Nudges are small changes to an environment which are simple and inexpensive to put in place. Some of the most well-known examples of nudge theory are rather amusing. The image of a housefly is etched onto each of the urinals in the men’s restrooms at Amsterdam Schiphol airport.
But, what happened in Amsterdam?
It’s not always easy to aim without a target right?! Well, with this in mind, the housefly experiment was carried out at Amsterdam Schiphol, one of Europe’s busiest airports. Back in the 1990s, the image of a fly was etched on urinals in the airport’s toilets. Simply due to having some form of target caused men to instinctively concentrate on their aim. This in turn reduced unwanted splashes from the urinals. Restroom users rejoiced, as did the Dutch airport’s management, who saw their clean-up costs reduced by 80%! In this specific case, the goal was to use a game to encourage greater cleanliness, without encroaching on users’ freedom of choice. It’s a kind of hidden paternalism, which turned out to be more effective than forceful measures like punishment or guilt-tripping. As it turns out, humans are often less rational creatures than we might think. Another nudge technique involves using painted illusions of speed bumps on pedestrian crossing markings, causing approaching drivers to slow down. These techniques are inspired by behavioural science, a field in which public authorities have only invested fairly recently. Meanwhile marketers have been testing out such ideas for a long time.
Are we saying nudges are a form of manipulation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/17/2020 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What is a showrunner?
What is a showrunner?
The whole world is streaming TV shows and series more than ever before. And yet many of these shows wouldn’t even exist without the role of the showrunner. This person is seen as top of the food chain, and contributes to almost every aspect of production, from the writing room to the filming studio.
The all-encompassing showrunner role has been compared to that of an orchestra conductor. It’s best known in the United States, but it’s gaining in popularity elsewhere too.
You can't really compare the role of the showrunner to that of a director? Although the showrunner is generally present during filming to exercise creative authority, they often rely on one or more directors. TV shows have a lot of moving parts, with a large team effort needed.
The showrunner position is therefore really a mix of creative and managerial responsibilities. They have to make sure everything runs as intended, all the while adhering to the creative vision.
Furthermore, the showrunner has the greatest accountability of anyone working on a series. Martin Gero, showrunner for NBC drama Blindspot, has gone on record saying: “The buck stops here...If anything is wrong with the show, the showrunner is to be blamed. We're involved in every creative and financial decision..."
Typically, showrunners are credited as “executive producers”. But the role differs from that of a traditional TV producer role, which is more linked with a show’s physical aspects, like cast negotiations and crew hiring.
Interestingly, showrunners usually come from a writing background. A typical career path involves working their way up through the writer’s room, from assistant to staff writer to editor and so forth.
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8/15/2020 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
What is the anti-mask movement?
What is the anti-mask movement? Thanks for asking!
Since the beginning of the covid-19 pandemic, wearing a face covering has become normalised in many places. But an increasing number of people have come out in opposition of making face masks compulsory. Their main argument is that it’s a breach of individual freedom. Some believe that masks aren’t actually effective, and even question the need for other public health measures like social distancing.
Are there really that many anti-maskers out there?
There have been protests across many countries, including the USA, Canada, the UK and Germany. The common message is that forcing citizens to wear face masks is oppressive and anti-democratic. On the 2nd of August, 15,000 protesters gathered in Berlin, brandishing placards and wearing T-shirts with slogans such as: “My health, my choice” and “Resistance”. Some conspiracy theorists believe that the coronavirus was simply invented by the media, or blown out of all proportion. Journalists at the scene reported that many participants were anti-vaccine militants, and members of a far-right group were also present. Germany has so far seen a relatively low total of coronavirus deaths, under 10,000 at the time of recording. But citizens from other harder hit countries are also at the forefront of the anti-mask movement. It all started in the United States, taking on political and ideological connotations. Anti-mask messages sprung up and spread quickly on social media, leading to a number of small protests. Similar scenes were seen in the United Kingdom and Canada over the following summer months.
And we’ve also seen heads of state criticise the use of face masks? And regardless of people’s views, face coverings have been made compulsory in many places. So how are anti-maskers reacting? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/13/2020 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
What is ammonium nitrate?
What is ammonium nitrate? Thanks for asking!
The city of Beirut was struck by a violent explosion last week, causing over 150 deaths and injuring thousands. The cause of the disaster in the Lebanese capital was ammonium nitrate. Nearly 3000 tonnes of the substance exploded in a warehouse in the city’s port area. This chemical compound, otherwise known as NH4 N03, is mostly used as an agricultural fertilizer, improving productivity. It’s made by reacting ammonia with nitric acid. Its appearance is similar to that of salt; it’s a crystal-like, odourless white solid. While ammonium nitrate is not flammable itself, it is combustive. It’s mixed with TNT to create explosions in the construction and mining industries.
So how did the Beirut explosion come about?
Ammonium nitrate doesn’t combust easily, but it has to be stored in the right conditions nevertheless. At a temperature of over 210° C, it decomposes into different gases. This reaction releases a very high quantity of energy, creating a shock wave. So isolating the compound from other flammable products is highly important. Depending on storage conditions, the ammonium nitrate in Beirut may have come into contact with other substances, causing the explosion. Since the incident occurred, a number of shocking videos have surfaced on social media and been picked up by news outlets. They show an orange mushroom cloud, which may be toxic gas nitrogen dioxide. It is particularly harmful for humans, irritating airways in the respiratory system. But it’s still difficult to be sure about the exact circumstances. An investigation should shed light on the security flaws which brought about the catastrophe.
How did such a high quantity of ammonium nitrate come to be stored in one location? Has ammonium nitrate caused explosions elsewhere in the past? If the substance is so dangerous, why hasn’t it been banned? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/12/2020 • 5 minutes, 46 seconds
What is a meme?
What is a meme? Thanks for asking!
An internet meme is a viral piece of content which spreads online and is transformed by web users. Memes often grow rapidly, being shared on social media, blogs and by email. Some go viral and become well-known all over the world. Many are somewhat absurd, with no particular meaning or purpose, other than to make people laugh! The word meme first appeared in the 1970s. It was created by British ethologist Richard Dawkins, to explain how ideas replicate, mutate and evolve. The term was reappropriated in the internet age, and even Dawkins himself became a meme, in the new sense of the word! One of the first well-known internet memes dates back to 1996. It’s a video of a 3D dancing baby in a nappy.
OK so internet weirdness is nothing new then!
These days, a meme is an expression of internet culture. Just log in to Instagram, Twitter or Facebook and you can find the same original image transformed in tens of different ways. It grows and evolves for months, then disappears gradually. And memes aren’t just visual, some well-known audio examples include: the Nyan Cat music, the Simpsons laugh, a Hitler film line, the epic sax guy or the Trololo singer. If most of these sounds mean something to us, it’s because we’ve heard them plenty of times. They’ve been transformed by many creative web users, and are now part of popular culture, especially among millennials.
So what causes an idea to become a meme? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/10/2020 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
What is philanthropy?
What is philanthropy? Thanks for asking!
Philanthropy is the feeling which pushes people to help those in need. Most often, it’s manifested by the rich giving to the poor. In times of crisis, like the Covid-19 pandemic, calls for philanthropy are commonplace. It’s almost as if private donations can take on the responsibilities of a state and its public institutions. The concept of charity has existed for a long time, and its philosophies are often associated with religion. While there is somewhat of an overlap, philanthropy is not entirely the same thing. Charity seeks to ease the impact of a social problem, whereas philanthropy looks to address the root cause. Some cite the birth of philanthropy as being during the Age of Enlightenment in Europe. But it really developed in late 19th century America, inspired by newly rich businessmen. The premise is simple: if you have a lot of money and you’re a good person, you should share it; give back to society a little of what it has given you.
Let's be real, it's also to have a clean conscience and good reputation, right?
It’s also to have a clean conscience and good reputation. By giving, philanthropists can also receive...even more money! A lot of governments support philanthropy by granting tax reductions. In the United States, this figure is 35% of the donation, while in France it goes as high as 60% for companies. Without a doubt, the most well-renowned philanthropists are Bill and Melinda Gates, who donate 2 billion dollars a year through their foundation. Historically they have been the second largest funder of the World Health Organization, just behind the United States of America. Many other philanthropists create their own nonprofit foundations, to donate to causes like healthcare, education and extreme poverty.
So is it the rich who are going to help us beat Covid-19? And are the rich taking the place of governments then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/8/2020 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
What is Globish?
What is Globish? Thanks for asking!
Globish is a simplified version of English. In theory, it enables non-native English speakers to communicate with others anywhere across the planet, but it’s also perceived as a danger to other languages, including English. The Lingua Franca was a similar concept which mixed several Latin languages. Between the 13th and 19th centuries, it was used to do business in ports around the Mediterranean Sea. There’s no doubt that English is the equivalent in this day and age. It allows people all around the world to communicate. Well, at least a form of English. Some have referred to this as simplified English, others talk of “English as a lingua franca”. Another alternative name is Globish, a term which was invented in the 2000s by French businessman Jean-Paul Nerrière. He came up with a method for learning and speaking this form of English, which uses simplified grammar structures and only requires a vocabulary of 1,500 common English words.
Do you have any concrete examples and tips?
Here's an example. In globish you don’t say “I went to my niece and nephew's party the other weekend and I played the piano”. Rather you say “At the party of my children's brother the other day, I played an instrument with black and white keys”. Depending on the business sector you work on, it may be wise to learn the related industry jargon. There’s no specific accent but you definitely need to work on your pronunciation. The aim isn’t to sound English in particular, but just to be understood. Nerrière says that globish should be spoken slowly; it’s also important to articulate, use short sentences and avoid idioms or jokes.
Is there an academy for Globish? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/6/2020 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What is the P-Spot?
What is the P-Spot? Thanks for asking!
Most of the time, when we hear the word prostate, we associate it with cancer. We don’t necessarily know where it’s situated in the male body and even less so its potential as an erogenous zone! Let’s take an anatomy lesson then. The prostate, or male P-spot, is a small gland around the size of a walnut which can be found just below the bladder. It weighs between 20 and 40 grams, growing bigger as a man ages. Its role in the body is to produce the seminal liquid found in semen. This protects sperm from the acidic environment of the female vagina. The easiest way to access the prostate is through the rectum. And many men have discovered it to be a source of sexual pleasure.
Why this sexual practice is often rejected by heterosexual men?
In our collective subconscious, non-standard sexual practices are often rejected. The traditional expectation is that men are virile. They penetrate women, and aren’t penetrated themselves, even with a finger. But in reality, the idea that prostate play is limited to homosexuals is just a social construct.The prostate is to men what the clitoris was to women for a long time. That is a sexual organ which gives a lot of pleasure, but tends to be forgotten. Many aren’t even aware of its existence. The prostate is a great unknown of male sexuality, cannibalized by the all-powerful penis. It’s also been shown that massage can reduce the risk of prostate cancer, give stronger erections and help those struggling with premature ejaculation. Not to mention the longer and more intense orgasms, felt throughout the body, that can be brought on by prostate stimulation. Finally, there’s no refractory period, unlike with a penile orgasm. So you can have a prostate orgasm and go again shortly after. And you thought only women could have multiple orgasms!
So, how does it work then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/5/2020 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
What is a heatwave?
What is a heatwave? Thanks for asking!
We’re experiencing more intense and frequent heatwaves than ever before, and it’s one of the most tangible effects of climate change. These summer periods of extreme heat are a threat to the elderly, children and the poor. To meet the World Meteorological Organization’s definition of a heatwave, the period must last 5 days or longer. The daily maximum temperature must also be at least 5° higher than the average maximum temperature. This means the requirements can vary by region. Some nations have their own definition of a heatwave. For example, the UK’s Met Office uses a system called Heat Health Watch. To determine whether a heatwave is occurring, the maximum daytime temperature and minimum nighttime temperature are compared to regional thresholds. A four-level system is used to score each Local Authority area, with Level 4 being the highest.
So what actually causes a heatwave then?
Scientifically speaking, heatwaves are the result of trapped air. High-pressure systems force the air downwards, forming a cap over an affected area. This prevents precipitation from forming, leading to a continual buildup of heat. In the Northern Hemisphere, this happens most often in July and August, even if we have now started seeing heatwaves earlier in the year. The problem is that heatwaves have a number of consequences. First of all, think of the environmental impact. They lead to shortages of drinking water, destroy food-producing crops, increase pollution and the risk of forest fires. But there are also direct human health issues. Extreme heat wears out those who are most vulnerable, like the elderly, children or the sick. It can make existing illnesses worse or cause serious heatstrokes.
What are the guidelines? Who has the greater risks? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/3/2020 • 5 minutes, 13 seconds
What is fatphobia?
What is fatphobia? Thanks for asking!
Being overweight is a stigma. While around 13% of the world’s population are obese, they are largely absent from the public limelight and often find themselves the target of mockery or discrimination. Overweight people are humiliated and ostracised throughout their lives, having to put up with regular criticisms about their lifestyle and appearance. This is what’s known as fatphobia, a form of discrimination which can have a harmful effect on those on the receiving end. Fatphobia is often left out of discussions on the struggle against different forms of discrimination. But it nevertheless causes real suffering on a daily basis. It can manifest itself in many different forms. For example assuming that obese people make bad life choices, ranking people according to their weight or claiming they are responsible for how they are. Fatphobia victims often end up believing they have no worth because it’s the message that’s transmitted to them constantly. Putting themselves down in turn affects their self-esteem and quality of life. Sometimes, they isolate from the rest of society or take on unhealthy habits.
But why are overweight people rejected to such an extent?
Modern Western society has led us to believe that a person’s weight and figure play a major part in how attractive they are. Being obese is therefore equated with ugliness, inferiority and even immorality. Fatphobia has become integrated into the general way of thinking for most people. Even those who aren’t overweight obsess about not putting on extra pounds before the summer holiday season. Online algorithms also seem to now be pre-programmed with fatphobia! A number of plus size influencers have noticed that their posts are censored by social media platforms. This is an example of a phenomenon known as shadow banning. American singer Lizzo accused TikTok of banning clips of her in a bikini, when similar clips of other slimmer women were allowed to remain online. This is the kind of discrimination that can lead to body shaming and increase fatphobia.
But whose side are social media on? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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8/1/2020 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
What is a micro adventure?
What is a micro adventure? Thanks for asking!
When you think “adventure”, you most likely think of an exotic destination halfway across the globe. But it’s easy to have an exciting change of scenery close to home, without compromising your carbon footprint. Let’s talk about micro adventures. Micro adventures are generally short, spontaneous and local. They take place outdoors and don’t require a high budget. If there’s one intrinsic rule to the concept, it’s that there are no fixed rules. Covid-19 lockdown measures and travel restrictions have revived the micro adventure concept. It’s a personal and inventive way of experiencing unique moments at walking or cycling distance from where you live.
How can we explain the rise of the micro advendures?
British adventurer and author Alastair Humphreys was responsible for the rise of the microadventure. The idea is based on a simple principle: within a few miles of your home, there must be some scope for adventure which can be reached through an original means of transport. You just need to change your existing habits. Switch your car or travelcard for a kayak, bike or simply a pair of trainers. Whatever you need to leave home and start your microadventure. With the virus still spreading and a major economic crisis likely to last for some time, there is fair cause for concern about the near future. All the same, after months of Netflix, online yoga classes and homemade bread, you’re no doubt keen to make the most of summer. And a micro adventure could be just the ticket, without needing to travel far, spend a lot of money or make complicated arrangements.
What about those of us who struggle to come up with ideas for a microadventure? Is there a risk that the micro adventure could turn into a form of mass tourism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is an eco-friendly beach?
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7/30/2020 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
What is an eco-friendly beach?
What is an eco-friendly beach? Thanks for asking!
For many people, beaches are synonymous with the summer holiday season. Beach holidays have been popular since the second half of the 19th century, and are the archetypal form of mass tourism. With millions of people indulging in such getaways each year, it goes without saying that there’s a significant environmental impact. We regularly get riled when seeing pictures of beaches covered in plastic bottles, or turtles choking on straws. Around 10 million tonnes of waste end up in the ocean each year, with tourism hotspots creating 26% more than other cities. Plastic from bags, packaging and straws are a nuisance and threat to sea animals. Even our swimsuits are made from plastic-based materials like nylon, polyester and spandex. and shed microfibres into the ocean, which can be swallowed by sea animals. Cigarette butts also contain plastic, as well as highly toxic chemical components like nicotine, acetone and benzopyrene. A single butt can contaminate 500 litres of water and can take up to 10 years to decompose. They have long been the most collected waste item on the world’s beaches. Some regions use large sand-cleaning machines to clear waste, but these also have a detrimental effect on certain types of flora and fauna on the beach.
Are you saying my new eco-friendly lifestyle isn’t compatible with a beach holiday?
A beach holiday can still be compatible with a beach holiday, but only if you pay close attention to a few factors. To simplify things, you can see whether the beach carries the Blue Flag eco-label, which rewards resorts for meeting certain criteria. For example, a beach must have good quality water, be accessible and offer waste sorting. There should also be educational material on display for visitors to learn about environmental issues. There are over 4,000 Blue Flag beaches and marinas across the world. But even choosing a Blue Flag beach doesn’t guarantee you won’t damage the environment. Something as simple as using sunscreen can have a harmful effect. When swimming in the sea, part of the cream washes off. Its chemical constituents can damage corals and prevent other marine life, such as phytoplanktons, from growing.
Wait a minute, should we stop using sunscreen then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/29/2020 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What is Blackface?
What is Blackface? Thanks for asking!
Blackface is a form of theatre which consists of non-black performers wearing make-up to represent black characters. These depictions were often based on racial stereotypes and caricatures, with exaggerated physical features used to ridicule black people. This form of entertainment rose to popularity in 19th century America. It also became prominent in the UK. Blackface was most common in minstrel shows, which were a medley of singing, dancing, music and comedy scenes. Performers tended to be white, and used greasepaint or shoe polish to make their skin appear darker. The trend gradually disappeared in the second half of the 20th century, being recognised as offensive and racist. But it has come under the spotlight again recently. This is largely due to the Black Lives Matter movement and focus on racial inequality issues, following the death of George Floyd in May.
If blackface disappeared years ago, why is it still relevant today?
While minstrel shows are thankfully consigned to the past, there have still been many recent instances of white actors portraying black characters in popular culture. The latest rise in collective awareness has led to scenes and entire episodes with blackface depictions being removed from well-known shows. Some examples include The Office, 30 Rock and Scrubs. A number of public figures have had to issue public apologies after past images of them in blackface surfacing. This isn’t just limited to the entertainment industry; even Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau was found to have worn blackface makeup on multiple occasions for high school talent shows.
But isn’t removing blackface episodes just an easy way out? What are the alternative options then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/27/2020 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
What is TikTok?
What is TikTok? Thanks for asking!
Social network Tiktok allows users to publish short-form mobile videos. It’s been downloaded over 2 billion times since it was created in 2016, and its influence is growing bigger and bigger. That’s especially true within the music industry. There have been numerous success stories of new artists emerging on TikTok to become internet celebrities. The app has a reputation for being popular with members of Gen Z around the world. And the stats back it up; 70% of users are under the age of 25. With light-hearted features like comedy clips, dance choreographies and lip-syncing, it’s mostly seen as an entertainment app. Indeed, the “OK Boomer” catchphrase first went viral thanks to a TikTok clip. Listen to our previous episode on the subject to find out more! But TikTok has become increasingly political in different ways. Some countries are even considering banning it!
It seems like harmless fun - why would anyone want to ban such an app?
Much of the controversy stems from the fact that TikTok is owned by a Chinese company; that’s Byte Dance in case you didn’t already know. Countries like India, the United States and Australia suspect TikTok of feeding user data to the Chinese government. Like many mobile apps, TikTok collects information on its users. That includes their location, smartphone model and even the rhythm at which they type. TikTok directors have denied the accusations, but not everyone is convinced. India was first to introduce a ban, a real blow as it was the company’s second largest market after China. Even if the official reasoning is to do with security concerns, there’s also no doubt some countries want to sanction China for some of its foreign policies. Many have referred to the rivalry between China and the US as a New Cold War. It’s arguably in American interest to limit the influence of Chinese tech companies. But the political aspect is not just to do with TikTok’s ownership. Users themselves have begun posting more political content this year.
How did TikTok go from dance videos to political activism? What did TikTok users have to do with that? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/25/2020 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What is an ecocide?
What is an ecocide? Thanks for asking!
An ecocide is a term for an act that causes significant damage to the environment or ecosystems. It comes from the Greek word éoikios, meaning home, and the Latin word caedere, meaning kill. In theory individuals, companies and states could be brought to justice for committing such acts. It’s not recognised as a crime in many places, but France is currently looking at passing a law to do just that. The term was first used in the early 1970s in response to strategic deforestation by the American military in Vietnam, carried out with a herbicide called Agent Orange. This was used as a chemical weapon to destroy the forest cover and food resources relied on by Vietnamese guerilla fighters.
So what’s caused the French to consider making ecocide a crime?
A group of randomly selected French citizens was set up by President Emmanuel Macron in 2019, following regular protests by the gilets jaunes movement. The panel was named the Citizens’ Convention on Climate. Macron said: “We do not include our fellow citizens sufficiently in the transparent, debated construction of the solutions we put forward. So that is the idea behind the Citizens’ Assembly process.” The CCC has been set the task of defining actions to tackle climate change, with the aim of reducing emissions by 40% within the next decade. The ecocide law is one of the group’s key proposals, along with a ban on advertising high carbon footprint products and a tax hike on processed foods. The French Minister for Ecological Transition was first to back the idea of a referendum on the issue. Then President Macron himself announced in late June he would back the law. A referendum could be held as early as next year.
Exciting times for environmentalists! What’s going on elsewhere then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/23/2020 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
What is IQ?
What is IQ? Thanks for asking !
IQ stands for intelligence quotient and is a test score which indicates a person’s level of intelligence. Some people are concerned that the average IQ is decreasing in Europe. The abbreviation IQ was coined by German psychologist William Stern in 1912, to name a scoring method for intelligence testing at the University of Breslau. Even before that, humans had long been fascinated with classifying people according to their intelligence. Psychologists still use IQ scores today. The most common form of testing is the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS). The average is set at 100. Half of all people have a score between 90 and 110; 15% score from 110 to 120; and around 3% have a ‘gifted-level’ IQ of over 130.
So, if I got 132, am I brainiac?
Now I’m not saying you’re not smart, but your result from GetMyIQIn5Minutes.com might not be the most...reliable. To find out your IQ, you need to consult a psychologist and carry out dozens of exercises to measure cognitive skills like short-term memory, problem solving and visual processing. The whole process takes several hours and it’s not even a given that the psychologist will agree to give you your score. Many parents insist on IQ tests in the hope of discovering that children are gifted, or have high academic potential. In the worst cases, IQ tests are used to pigeonhole children; stupid on one side and gifted on the other. An IQ score alone doesn’t tell the whole story, and can lead to stigmatisation, rather than having any positive effect. Furthermore, IQ doesn’t give any information on emotional or relational intelligence. That’s why some psychologists now refuse to give out results. Nevertheless, it remains a very common indicator.
So what evidence is there that IQ levels are dropping? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/22/2020 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What is Fintech?
What is Fintech? Thanks for asking!
Fintech is an abbreviation of “financial technology” It’s a new business sector which began developing during the 2010s. Fintech companies put technology to the service of financial activity. Finance can now be handled from the palm of our hands. If we forget about the tech part for a minute, we’re talking about the finance sector of traditional banking. Due to their large structures, these companies are somewhat slow to integrate new technologies into their business practices. That’s how new players, with more digital knowhow and innovation, have been able to challenge traditional finance. 2015 was a key year for fintech, with 47 billion dollars invested.
When I think finance, I think billions of digits and transactions between New York traders. With or without technology, what’s it got to do with my daily life?
Well, we all handle a little bit of finance every day, whether saving up to go on holiday or getting a third pint for your mate who never pays you back. That’s changed since everybody started having a smartphone on them all the time. Fintech allows us to make instant transfers between friends, pay at checkout using our phone and view bank account statements in real time.
What about crowdfunding and cryptocurrencies? Do they have anything to do with fintech? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/20/2020 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
What is GAFAM?
What is GAFAM? Thanks for asking!
GAFAM is the acronym used to refer to American tech giants Google, Apple, Facebook, Amazon and Microsoft. Together, they hold five of the six top spots in a listing of the world’s most valuable public corporations. And their products are omnipresent in our daily lives.
So why group these five companies together then?
Well, they are the most powerful players in the digital economy. Since Apple became the first American company to pass a value of $1 trillion in 2018, they have been followed by Amazon, Microsoft and Google’s parent company Alphabet. Facebook is a little way behind, but it has a global user base of 3 billion people which no other company can match.These five companies preside over most of our online activity. When you’re emailing, watching, calling, posting or buying, chances are you’re using a product from one of the GAFAM companies to do so.
What’s not to like about our digital overlords then? And what about tax avoidance? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/18/2020 • 5 minutes, 7 seconds
What is stigmergy?
What is stigmergy? Thanks for asking!
Stigmergy is a model of coordination and cooperation which was first observed in social insects, but also appears in human behaviour. It is appealing more and more to project leaders as a kind of open network organisation. Ants communicate by laying pheromones along their path, so that other ants can follow them to food or their colony as needed. This constitutes a system called stigmergy. Similar phenomena are noticed in other species of social insects like termites, which use pheromones to construct large and complex mounds by following a simple decentralized rule. Without communicating directly with one another, they are able to create the appearance of joint decision-making.
How the term "stigmergy" was born?
The term was coined by French biologist Pierre-Paul Grassé in 1959, referring specifically to behaviour of termites. He defined it as: “Stimulation of workers by the project they are implementing”. The term comes from the Greek words stigma, meaning “mark” or “sign” and ergon, meaning “work” or “action”. It expresses the notion that the actions of an agent leave traces in the environment, signs which are then read by himself and other agents, and which determine their further actions. Under the stigmergy model, individuals communicate among themselves, modifying their environment by means of indirect communication. Their communication is transparent, without any imposed rules. A well-known example is Wikipedia. A person starts writing an article and publishes it. Another user may follow, see if the article needs improvement and make edits if they have further knowledge of the subject area.
How does that translate into implementation of a project, for example? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/16/2020 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
What is ghosting?
What is ghosting? Thanks for asking!
Ghosting is a modern slang term for ceasing all communication without any warning or explanation. It’s likely happened to you in the past at some point, and you may well have also ghosted someone yourself! The term was first added to dating jargon in the 2000s, and has become more common with the rise of social media, online dating and casual hookup services. A survey by Elle.com found that half of all men and women had ghosted someone at least once in the past. Meanwhile, only 23% of women and 36% of men had never experienced ghosting in any capacity, either as the ghost or the ghostee. Ghosting can happen in pretty much any kind of relationship, including with family members or as part of a recruitment process. But it’s most commonly talked about with regards to dating. We’re not talking about ignoring someone after one disappointing date, but rather after several dates, or even in the context of an apparently exclusive relationship. All of a sudden, the ghost stops responding. They ignore calls, texts, Whatsapp messages and any other form of communication. As if the ghostee didn't exist!
Seems pretty cruel and cowardly! Why do people ghost then?
Some mental health professionals view ghosting as a form of emotional cruelty. At best, it confuses the ghostee and at worst it causes them severe distress, which can have a lasting impact on self-esteem. Ghosting comes across as an especially inelegant kind of behaviour, even if the intention isn’t necessarily to hurt the ghostee. It’s been argued that ghosting results from a general decrease in empathy towards relationship partners. Cynics say this is typical of the digital era culture, with selfishness and narcissism all too common. Before getting too judgemental, let’s also recognise that ending a relationship can be uncomfortable at the best of times. You could say that ghosting is the easy way out, and some people certainly do it to avoid conflict.
Are there any other alternatives to ghosting? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/15/2020 • 4 minutes, 57 seconds
What is vitamin D?
What is vitamin D? Thanks for asking!
Vitamin D was discovered in 1922 by American biochemist Elmer McCollum, who was nicknamed Dr Vitamin by Time Magazine. He found that cod liver oil could still prevent rickets in rats, despite its vitamin A having been removed. From this observation, he deduced that it contained a different substance which he called vitamin D.
Why vitamin D is necessary?
A sufficient quantity of vitamin D is necessary during early childhood years in order to prevent rickets. In adults, it protects against osteoporosis and the deterioration of bone tissue. It also plays an important part in preventing breast cancer and colon cancer. Vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, over 1 billion people worldwide are vitamin D deficient. In May 2020, an American study suggested that vitamin D deficiency could increase the risks of complications associated with Covid-19. This was based on data from countries severely affected by COVID-19, like China, France, Germany, Italy and the United States. According to a Dutch study, another vitamin may give you an advantage in fighting the virus, and that's vitamin K. Covid-19 causes coagulation of blood and degrades elastic pulmonary fibres. Whereas vitamin K consumed with food participates in the production of proteins which regulate coagulation.
How do we produce or find Vitamin D then? But how does sunblock work then? What about skin colour; does that impact our ability to produce Vitamin D? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/13/2020 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What is a near-death experience?
What is a near-death experience? Thanks for asking!
American psychiatrist Dr Raymond Moody is considered to be the founding father of studies on near-death experiences, known as NDEs for short. Back in 1975, he was the first to shed light on the phenomenon in his book “Life after life”. In 1991 Dr Moody claimed to have had a near-death experience himself, after attempting suicide. According to him, that provided him with a deeper insight into his work and himself. He claims that “a man who has been a patient himself becomes a better doctor”.
When does the near death experience come?
Near death experiences are triggered by singular life-threatening episodes when the body is injured as a result of a concussion, a heart attack, asphyxia or a shock, for example. Between 6 and 20% of people who have suffered a coma or a cardiac arrest claim to have lived through a near-death experience. Thanks to improved reanimation techniques, more and more survivors are able to give an account of their extraordinary journey that took place in the first instants of dying.These stories often describe leaving the damaged body behind and visiting a realm beyond our day-to-day life, unrestrained by space or time. Such powerful experiences of mystical nature transform the lives of survivors forever.
So what exactly is a near death experience like? What does science have to say on the matter? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/11/2020 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What is doomscrolling?
What is doomscrolling? Thanks for asking!
The more bad news we hear, the more we tend to get consumed by social media feeds, incessantly scrolling through our apps. Americans have come up with a term for that phenomenon: doomscrolling. Spoiler alert: it’s not the best for your mental health. If you use Twitter, Instagram or Facebook, you definitely know the feeling. You open the app and start scrolling through your feed on autopilot mode, sinking deeper and deeper into the infinity of posts. In the context of an unnerving situation covered by countless posts, it becomes virtually impossible to put your phone away. To describe this phenomenon, the term “doomscrolling” was coined on Twitter in 2018.
So why do we doomscroll then?
In times of crisis, we feel the need to make some sense out of the world around us. This could be due to current events like the Covid19 pandemic and worldwide antiracism protests. Other scenarios include terrorist attacks and climate change. In order to get information, we turn to the media, which in this day and age often means social media in particular. The problem with social media is that we don't get to pre-select the info we see. It’s impossible for our brain to organize it to create a coherent story. In addition to the fact that the algorithms trap us in a bad news bubble, they force us to stay connected. Lastly, the final trap lies in the endless scrolling. Whereas a newspaper, magazine or TV newscast have a pre-defined end, our social media feeds can simply go on forever! The “mean world syndrome” first described in the 70s implies that, exposed to violent content on TV, we tend to perceive the world as a more dangerous place than it actually is. The same happens when it comes to doomscrolling: the outside world becomes hostile, which can trigger a certain amount of anxiety or worse - depression. Which is why from the very beginning of self-isolation therapists have been warning us against spending too much time checking news feeds.
How can we balance this against the need to stay informed? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/9/2020 • 4 minutes, 20 seconds
What is the New Cold War?
What is the New Cold War?
Relations between China and the United States have been deteriorating for years, and the global COVID-19 pandemic isn’t helping. Each country blames the other for the situation and do not hesitate to brandish threats. Some analysts believe a new cold war is upon us.
The original Cold War was a period of confrontation between the US and the USSR, between 1947 and 1991. It was marked by the ideological rivalry of communism versus capitalism, each seeking to exert as much global influence as possible. However, the two countries never confronted each other directly, hence the war is referred to as “cold”.
Today the term “the new cold war” is often used by experts, editorialists and even political figures. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, for instance, has suggested that Washington’s attacks pushed China towards a new cold war.
Indeed, China and the US are in a geopolitical conflict over issues like Taiwan, Hong Kong and the South China Sea. China is seeking to assert its power; it enjoys a substantial presence in Africa and aims to consolidate its maritime position with the help of the New Silk Road project.
Another part of the battle is fought online by hackers looking to access sensitive information. The countries have been at loggerheads for years over allegations of the Chinese government stealing trade secrets from American companies, like Google, Microsoft and Intel.
China and the United States are fighting a trade war, too. Americans had introduced punitive customs duties which remained in force until the two countries reached a new agreement in January 2020.
But with Covid19 in the picture, tensions have escalated even further. The United States recently withdrew from the World Health Organisation, accusing the agency of supporting China.
The US also recently made a formal accusation that China was funding and operating cells of hackers to infiltrate COVID-19 research labs.
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7/8/2020 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What is chlordecone?
What is chlordecone? Thanks for asking!
Chlordecone is a highly toxic pesticide which is known for being an endocrine disruptor. That means it can interfere with hormones and cause disease. It has been described by the World Health Organization as “potentially carcinogenic” and causes liver tumours in lab mice. Although it’s been banned for nearly three decades, it’s still causing controversy in the 21st century. Its prior use led to the poisoning of almost the entire adult population of Martinique and Guadeloupe in the French Caribbean. Many are calling on the French government to take responsibility for this chronic pollution problem.
How this polemic begins?
Thousands of tonnes of bananas are produced each year in Martinique and Guadeloupe. The banana sector is key to the economy, employing over half of agricultural workers across the two islands. Most of the produce is exported to, and sold in, mainland France. In the early 1970s, plantations were affected by root-boring weevils which attacked the banana plants. So it seemed like good news when it was discovered that chlordecone could be used to eradicate the insects. The farmers likely had no idea how dangerous chlordecone was, but the government really should have known better. Studies on chickens and mice in the 1960s had already proved chlordecone to be poisonous.
So is everything OK now, 30 years later? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/6/2020 • 4 minutes, 38 seconds
What are influencers?
What are influencers? Thanks for asking!
Influencers are people who are capable of impacting consumption habits among their followers on social media. Brands are relying more and more on influencers as part of their communications strategies, but are sometimes duped by fake influencers. You could be forgiven for thinking influencers were invented in the 2010s. In reality, it stems from a theory discussed by sociologists for decades. Until the past decade, we talked about “opinion leadership”, meaning people who had influence on their family, friends or colleagues. This could be giving an opinion on products, brands or celebrities, for example.
How does the opinion leadership manifest itself?
In the internet age, opinion leadership manifested itself in the form of bloggers. These were generally amateurs who used their websites to share their opinion online, whether it be on a particular niche or wide-ranging subjects. Gradually bloggers ceded their position to influencers on social media, mainly Youtube and Instagram. Influencers tend to be specialised in a certain area of interest, like beauty, fashion, travel, cooking, culture or sports. Indeed, being an influencer has become a career for many in recent years. Brands quickly realised they would need to work together with these opinion leaders, in order to reach certain communities. They spoil their influencers with gifts, trips and VIP event invitations. A study by social media analytics platform Klear found that companies pay nano-influencers an average of $100 for an Instagram post, with that figure rising to $2000 for a celebrity.
In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/4/2020 • 3 minutes, 52 seconds
What is brand activism?
What is brand activism? Thanks for asking!
Brand activism is when companies seek to have an impact on a social, economic, environmental, or political problem. It’s increasingly common, especially at the moment, but it can have negative consequences. In many cases, companies are called out for being hypocritical when engaging in brand activism. Cynics often see it as opportunistic marketing. Even worse, the company may in fact have a poor track record when it comes to the issue on which they are taking a stance.
Why do brands feel like they need to get political then?
There are a number of reasons why brands feel like they need to get political. Companies might engage relating to an issue that aligns with their values and vision, for the good publicity it generates or simply to boost their bottom line. Consumers, especially from younger generations, are becoming more and more demanding when it comes to brand activism. This is backed up by studies which show that millennials and members of Gen-Z are likely to choose products from a brand which aligns with their values. Recent weeks have seen a massive increase in brand activism relating to the Black Lives Matter movement against racial violence and injustice. This follows the high-profile killing of black man George Floyd at the hands of the Minneapolis police in late May. Staying silent on racial inequality is no longer an option for brands, with the risk of them being seen as complicit. Companies have been posting powerful messages on social media, announcing seven-figure donations to racial equality charities and making pledges to increase diversity within their own organisations. Adidas has pledged that 30% of its future hires in the USA will be people from black or Latino backgrounds. Amazon has been displaying the Black Lives Matter logo prominently on all its social media platforms, while its CEO shared racist emails he had received from members of the public. Uber Eats announced it would waive delivery fees for orders from black-owned restaurants until the end of the year.
That all sounds like it will help equality. So what’s the problem? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/2/2020 • 4 minutes, 55 seconds
What is free software?
What is free software? Thanks for asking!
Despite what it might sound like, free software isn’t necessarily free of charge. Here, the word is used with regards to liberty, not price. That’s also why it’s sometimes referred to as “libre software”, to avoid any ambiguity. Perhaps more significant than its definition is what free software stands for. It’s a social and political movement which aims to offer software with no trade secrets, and guaranteed free circulation of source code. Some of the most well-known free software applications are the Firefox web browser, OpenOffice and VLC media player. Examples of non-free programs, also described as proprietary software, are Photoshop, iTunes or Microsoft Windows.
So what sets free software apart from the rest then?
The Free Software Movement was started in the 1980s by former hacker Richard Stallman. Many manufacturers had recently stopped distributing source code and started using restrictive licenses or copyright. This was to prevent competitors from using their software and it became the norm. Stallman announced the GNU project, which consisted of developing a free computer operating system by the same name. The GNU Manifesto set out four essential freedoms that software must have in order to be considered free. Users have to be able to 1) run the program as they wish, for whatever use they wish; 2) study the programme’s source code, and edit it; 3) share exact copies with others; and finally 4) make and distribute edited versions to others.
Is it the same as open source? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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7/1/2020 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
What is speciesism?
What is speciesism? Thanks for asking!
The assumed superiority of humans over all other animals is often unspoken. Without necessarily wishing any harm on animals, we take it for granted that we are more complex beings and therefore have greater moral rights. So much so that most of us are not even aware of the concept of speciesism, which is an increasingly complex ethical issue. Speciesism refers to discrimination based on species membership, and is usually used to describe the assumption of human superiority. In the worst cases, it leads to the exploitation of animals. Some people condemn it as a massive form of bigotry, just like racism or sexism.
When did we start talking about speciesism then?
The term first appeared around 50 years ago, in a pamphlet written by British psychologist Richard D. Ryder. Ryder was a member of the Oxford Group of intellectuals, who met frequently to discuss animal rights, at the time an emerging concept. But the idea itself has existed for a long time. Aristotle talked about the dominance of men over animals in his work The History of Animals, which is seen as a pioneering work in the field of zoology. Abrahamic religions like Christianity and Judaism have also contributed to spreading speciesism by teaching that animals were created for use by humans. French philosopher René Descartes introduced the animal-machine notion in the 17th century, which had great influence on Western cultures. He argued that animals acted on instinct alone and had no emotions. Meanwhile, humans had a conscience and could think for themselves. According to Descartes, this moral distinction meant humans deserved more rights than animals. This attitude is still widely held in modern society. at least to some extent. If you think about the example of a human child and a dog caught in a fire, most people wouldn’t hesitate in saving the child first.
Well that’s true, but it’s a bit of an extreme case, isn’t it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/29/2020 • 4 minutes, 41 seconds
What is Starlink?
What is Starlink? Thanks for asking!
While the Space Race makes us think back to the 20th century, some billionaires are dreaming of ruling space in 2020. In particular Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, who’s planning to send tens of thousands of satellites into orbit in coming years. The name of the project is Starlink and the goal is to deliver high-speed broadband access across the globe. Behind Starlink is the private company SpaceX, which Elon Musk founded in 2002. Earlier this year, it became the first private company to send astronauts into space. Musk has long held the ambition of colonizing the planet Mars, which remains a future objective for SpaceX. Since 2015, the company has been developing the Starlink megaconstellation of satellites. The stated aim is bold: providing high-speed internet access anywhere on earth. We’re talking at sea, in the middle of the desert or the depths of the countryside.
Doesn’t satellite internet access already exist?
Existing satellites giving internet access are in geostationary orbit and the technology only allows a limited number of users to access it. Latency times are also high, due to the 20,000 mile distance between the satellites and us on Earth. Starlink, on the other hand, sends satellites into Low Earth orbit at 550 miles. Latency will be reduced, and as the satellites will orbit more quickly, they will be able to cover the whole of the planet. Starlink has been authorised to send 12,000 satellites into space. To put that into perspective, Earth currently has just 2,200 artificial satellites.There are already 600 Starlink satellites orbiting, with the first launch mission dating back to February 2018. Service is set to be available in North America by the end of the year, with “near global coverage of the populated world” promised for 2021.
What about 5G? Are there environmental risks in sending all these satellites into orbit? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/27/2020 • 5 minutes, 15 seconds
What is femicide?
What is femicide? Thanks for asking!
Many countries reported increased gender-based violence during recent coronavirus lockdowns. Femicides are the most extreme form of such crimes against women, and they have been on the rise for many years now. The term dates back centuries, but has taken on a new meaning in recent decades, with feminists placing emphasis on the specific nature and intent of femicide. It has gradually been adopted by international organisations like the United Nations and World Health Organisation.
If a man kills a woman, is it automatically a femicide then?
The murder of a woman isn’t always femicide, even if committed by a man. Femicide refers specifically to murders carried out because the victim is a woman. The WHO published an information sheet on the subject in 2012, providing details of several different types of cases. The most common is intimate femicide, which is committed by a current partner or ex partner. Worldwide, these account for 35% of all murders of women in the world. A study by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime found that 87,000 women were murdered in 2017, with 58% being killed by an intimate partner or family member. By the same logic, non-intimate femicide is when the murderer and victim do not have an intimate relationship. This includes killings linked to a sexual assault and antifeminist murders, for example. Other types of femicide include dowry-related murders and honour killings.
Are there specific laws on femicide? How the victime can get justice? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/25/2020 • 3 minutes, 44 seconds
What is non-binary?
What is non-binary? Thanks for asking!
Non-binary is an umbrella term to describe people who don’t identify within the traditional gender binary of male or female. This is also known as enby for short, or genderqueer. There isn’t a whole lot of reliable data about the number of non-binary people in the world. But the general trend is gradually more people are identifying as such, bringing into question the role of gender in society.
Since when non-binary people are recognize?
The term originates from the binary system used in mathematics or electronics, where the only two options are 0 and 1. We have historically discussed our gender in the same way - we are either male or female. Those who talk about non-binary genders are opposed to this way of thinking, claiming the existence of other possibilities. Some people feel like they have more than one gender, have none at all, or are in a fluctuating state known as genderfluid. The term non-binary started being used in the 2000s and spread with the emergence of social media. That doesn’t necessarily mean non-binary people didn’t exist before. The term simply helped otherwise isolated people to recognise their identity. Several countries already legally recognise non-binary or third gender classifications. Australia may have been the first, going back to 2003. Others include New Zealand, Malta, India and most recently Canada, where gender-neutral passports were introduced in 2019. In some countries, it’s possible to change the gender marker on your ID document by simply filling in a declaration form.
Is it another word for androgynous or intersex? Which pronouns should we use when talking to a non-binary person? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/24/2020 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
What is cross immunity?
What is cross immunity? Thanks for asking!
Until recently, it’s been assumed that nobody had pre-existing immunity to COVID-19. Experts and world leaders such as Angela Merkel warned that the virus could go on to infect up to 70% of a country’s population, if it wasn’t eliminated. But studies are suggesting some people may already be resistant. We’ve already talked about herd immunity in a previous episode. Some countries like Sweden opted not to enforce strict lockdown measures, in the belief herd immunity would come about naturally. That scenario still seems a long way off, but scientists are looking into another kind of immunity, known as cross immunity. Basically, some of us may already be immunised against covid-19, due to past viral infections.
But Covid-19 is a new disease. How could we have already encountered it in the past?
SARS-COV-2, the strain which causes COVID-19, is a novel coronavirus. So no-one had ever been exposed to it before it appeared in late 2019. But it is just one member of the coronavirus family. Human coronaviruses were first discovered in the 1960s, so they have existed for many decades. Our bodies defeat viruses thanks to the antibodies created by our immune systems. Generally speaking, any one type of antibody is effective against a unique type of antigen. But sometimes, antibodies are able to bind to other types of antigens with similar structures. This is described as cross reactivity. Recent research looked at antibodies recovered from survivors of the SARS epidemic of the early 2000s. That was caused by SARS-CoV-1, which is closely related to the current coronavirus strain. In-vitro tests found the antibodies had a ‘robust’ cross-reactive immune response to SARS-CoV-2.
Well SARS only affected 8,000 people; what about the rest of us? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/22/2020 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
What is the female gaze?
What is the female gaze? Thanks for asking!
The term “female gaze” has been used in recent years to describe art that subverts the male perspective. The concept is seen as a response to Laura Mulvey’s 1975 essay about the so-called “male gaze”. Historically, this has been the dominant way of viewing art forms, with the male creator and male characters catering to male viewers. The rest of the characters often exist mainly to serve the male lead, his interests and his story. As a result, women have often been objectified or ignored, with their characters oversimplified.
Why has this happened?
Well, men are overrepresented in the film industry, so over the years most lead characters have been male. Even as recently as 2018, just 24% of protagonists in the 100 highest grossing films were female. To compound that issue, they’re generally surrounded by elements which appeal to male audiences. The female perspective has traditionally been suppressed. So when a female filmmaker, for example, brings a different viewpoint, we talk about the female gaze. Phil de Semlyen, global film editor at Time Out said: “I find the female gaze easier to define in terms of what it isn’t than what it is: it’s not about objectifying the female form or replacing fully-realised female characters with loose avatars for male sexual fantasy; it’s not framing sex scenes with tropes common to pornography aimed at men; it’s not about automatically relinquishing power and control to men in storytelling.”
Is it about reversing the roles and objectifying men rather than women? Or is it more complicated? What are some examples of female gaze films then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/20/2020 • 5 minutes
What is white privilege?
What is white privilege? Thanks for asking!
Like a lot of things, the concept of white privilege comes from the USA. It means that simply being white gives a person additional benefits or rights compared to those of other skin colours.
Why are we talking about white privilege right now?
The notion has increasingly been brought into the spotlight in recent years by movements like Black Lives Matter, who campaign for greater racial equality all over the world. White privilege is now a commonly used term in the rhetoric of antiracist groups, both online and offline. There has been a backlash, especially from conservatives, against the idea that such privilege exists. Tensions are running particularly high at the moment, due to ongoing protests around the world against racial violence and injustice. This follows the death of George Floyd on May 25th, at the hands of a white police officer in Minneapolis.
When was born the concept of white privilege?
The underlying concepts of white privilege date back to the work of black American sociologist W.E.B. Dubois in the 1930s. He observed that black farmers and labourers had less advantages compared to white people doing the same jobs. He introduced the idea of a “psychological wage” for white workers. This meant despite being poor, they still had greater chances of being admitted to public functions and better schools.
Do white people have still white privilege? How can we reduce white privilege and get to a more equal society? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/18/2020 • 5 minutes, 16 seconds
What is CrossFit?
What is CrossFit? Thanks for asking!
CrossFit is a branded fitness regimen which combines weightlifting, gymnastics, endurance and other forms of physical conditioning. The name comes from the constantly varied nature of workouts, which change every day to suit each individual. The methodology was developed from the 1970s onwards by American college gymnast Greg Glassman, who would go on to found CrossFit with his then wife Lauren Jenai in 2000. The company operates an affiliate model, licensing its name for an annual $3,000 fee to gyms which are known as boxes. There are more than 15,000 affiliates worldwide, with around 6,000 in the United States alone.
What are the workouts like?
CrossFit has some points in common with high-intensity interval training. Its workouts are short and certainly high in intensity, switching quickly between exercises with little rest. They focus on the main components of physical fitness, like stamina, strength, agility and balance. Most CrossFit gyms don’t have any mirrors, as the methodology is based on pushing your body to its limits, rather than obsessing over looks. Classes are often carried out in groups and generally divided into a dynamic warm-up, skill or strength work, the Workout of the Day and a cooldown. Simple equipment is used, like barbells, medicine balls and pull-up bars. While it attracts many devoted followers, CrossFit has also been criticised for its high risk of injury and links to the controversial Paleo diet.
But why have we been hearing CrossFit mentioned a lot on the news and social media of late? What’s the fallout for the CrossFit brand? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/17/2020 • 4 minutes, 30 seconds
What is jiko sekinin?
What is jiko sekinin? Thanks for asking!
Jiko sekinin is a Japanese term which more or less translates as “individual responsibility”. It’s more than just an expression. It represents a culture or even ideology of duty and guilt in the Land of the Rising Sun. Rather than attracting pity, the likes of homeless people, the chronically ill and even hostages are considered responsible for what happens to them. What’s more, they are expected to simply accept their fate and deal with it.
Is jiko sekinin a recent phenomenon?
The values of independence and individual merit have long been rooted in Japanese history and culture. But Jiko Sekinin is actually a relatively recent phenomenon, dating back to around the mid-1990s. Experts have traced its origins back to the crippling recession of the late 90s and the rise of neoliberalism. At the time, government officials blamed the country’s economic problems on its social system, which was seen as overly generous and egalitarian. They believed the road to recovery should be based on jiko sekinin and efforts to achieve individual success. This would lead to a more competitive, creative and healthy society.
Does anyone actually support the idea? Has the coronavirus pandemic made jiko sekinin more apparent in Japan or in other countries? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/15/2020 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
What is FOGO?
What is FOGO? Thanks for asking!
You’ve probably already heard of FOMO - the Fear of Missing Out. Well here’s the opposite: the Fear of Going Out - or FOGO. With coronavirus lockdown measures easing in many countries, some people are still spending more time at home than usual, or not going outside at all. The cause? FOGO! Now this acronym is not actually new, even if it’s being used a lot more at the moment. It was coined way back in 2015 by Alexis Swerdloff writing in New York magazine. He wasn’t really writing about a literal fear of going out. The term was created more in comparison to FOMO and our feelings when seeing other people’s posts on social media.
So what’s the difference between the two then?
FOMO is the worry that others are having a rewarding experience, while we are left out. People often feel that the grass is greener on the other side. And we easily become envious when we see how great others’ lives appear to be. We want what they have, whether it be money, possessions, beauty or happiness. Seeing friends or colleagues on a great night out, and feeling excluded, is a common example of FOMO. On the other hand, those who have FOGO feel that the events people are posting about are more daunting than appealing. It’s also worth remembering that people are often very conscious of the image they’re conveying of themselves when posting on social media. Therefore they only share the highlights of their existence, creating a distorted version of reality.
How has COVID-19 affected FOMO and FOGO? What can we do if we’re feeling FOGO or any other kind of anxiety right now? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/13/2020 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What is shadow banning?
What is shadow banning? Thanks for asking!
Politicians and influencers are complaining about shadow banning more than ever before. The term refers to the secret silencing of a person, topic or community by social media companies. Posts aren’t actually removed from the platform, but have a much reduced reach, due to not showing up in followers’ feeds. What’s more, affected users aren’t told this has happened, which has led to accusations of deliberate censorship by the likes of Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
When shadow banning was born?
The origins of shadow banning go back as far as the 1980s, when forum moderators limited the visibility of posts by certain unpleasant users. But the practice has taken on a whole new dimension with the advent of social media and their increasingly complex algorithms. The term was popularized in 2018, when it was reported some Republicans were less visible on Twitter’s automatic search function. President Trump weighed into the debate with a trademark angry post - in block capitals, on Twitter of course.
So why do social media companies do this? And how would I know if I’ve been shadow banned? Is shadow banning bad or good? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/11/2020 • 4 minutes, 27 seconds
What is Black Lives Matter?
What is Black Lives Matter? Thanks for asking!
Since late May, hundreds of thousands of Americans have taken to the streets to protest against police violence, racism and inequality. Riots have broken out and curfews have been put in place in many cities. All this is a result of the death of African-American man George Floyd at the hands of a white police officer in Minneapolis.
The Black Lives Matter movement originated in the U.S., following another tragedy. In 2012, black teenager Trayvon Martin was shot and killed by security agent George Zimmermann. When Zimmermann was acquitted the following year, three female activists created the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter on Twitter as a show of outrage at the verdict. It caught on, and gradually developed into a much wider movement, especially after the deaths of two more African-American men: Michael Brown and Eric Garner.
Do black people really die more than others in the United States?
In 2015, black men accounted for just 6% of the population, but a comparatively huge 40% of unarmed civilians killed by police. A study by the National Academy of Sciences found that one in a thousand black men can expect to die at the hands of the police.
In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/10/2020 • 5 minutes, 7 seconds
What is asexuality?
What is asexuality? Thanks for asking!
Being asexual means different things to different people. Generally speaking, asexuality refers to the persistent lack of interest in sexual activity. One of the main criteria is not feeling any sexual attraction towards other people. Asexuality can be considered a sexual orientation, or a lack of sexual orientation. Awareness and acceptance of asexuality is still relatively recent, but a developing body of research is growing, from both psychological and sociological perspectives.
So is being asexual the same as being abstinent?
Asexual isn't the same as being abstinent. Abstinence is a choice to not engage in sexual relations, for religious or personal reasons. Asexuals don’t consider their lifestyle a choice; they say they are born asexual in the same way as someone is born straight, gay or bi. The most common misconception about asexuals is that they have some kind of illness and can be cured. There’s no scientific consensus to explain a person’s sexual orientation, or lack thereof. Therefore, it shouldn’t be considered a psychological disorder or problem.
Do asexuals stay single for their entire lives? Are there many closet asexuals out there? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/8/2020 • 5 minutes, 15 seconds
What is ultracrepidarianism?
What is ultracrepidarianism? Thanks for asking!
An ultracrepidarian is someone who gives their opinion on just about everything, including subjects which are beyond their sphere of knowledge. A simpler label would be to call someone a know-it-all. It’s linked to a form of cognitive bias known in the field of psychology as the Dunning-Kruger effect. People overestimate their ability at a task, due to their inability to objectively evaluate their own competence.
Where "ultracrepidarianism" is from?
It’s believed the phrase originates from the 4th century BC, and famous Greek artist Apelles. He used to display his paintings in public and stand out of sight in order to eavesdrop on people’s comments. Upon viewing one of Apelles’ works, a shoemaker mentioned that the sole of a sandal was painted incorrectly. Apelles took the painting away and corrected it, based on the shoemaker’s observation. When he put the painting back on display, the shoemaker took pride and criticised other details of the artwork. Apelles then apparently jumped out from his hiding place and used the Latin phrase "sutor, ne ultra crepidam”.
What does it mean? And why do I feel like I’m seeing a lot of ultracrepidarianism on TV and social media at the moment? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/6/2020 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What are antibodies?
What are antibodies? Thanks for asking!
Antibodies are Y-shaped proteins which are secreted by B cells in the human body’s immune system. Their function is to neutralize pathogens like bacteria and viruses which enter the body. They work by recognizing unique molecules in the foreign material, which are known as antigens. By binding to the antigens, antibodies are able to destroy disease-causing microbes, or block them from causing infections. When we recover from an infection, some antibodies remain in the body serving as memory cells. Their presence therefore protects against future infections from the same pathogen. Serology tests can be carried out to determine whether a person has such protection. A blood sample is taken from the patient and later analysed for antibodies and antigens.
So why go to the effort of vaccinating people if the body is able to defend itself all alone with antibodies?
Antibodies represent our third line of defense against disease, after surface barriers and the non-specific responses of the innate immune system. In most people, this multi-layered system slows down infections, so the body can produce antibodies. But some people’s immune systems are weaker than others, and some viruses like COVID-19 are more dangerous than others. On the other hand, vaccinating someone is a pre-emptive strategy to help their immune system develop antibodies as future protection. This consists of injecting inactivated components of a disease into the body. When a vaccinated person encounters the pathogen that causes the disease in question, the body is ready to respond very quickly. Many once-deadly diseases have been more or less eliminated through vaccines, such as smallpox, measles and mumps.
So could we describe coronavirus as a flu which has mutated? And if you have been infected by coronavirus, does your body create antibodies? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/4/2020 • 5 minutes, 22 seconds
What is a drive-in?
What is a drive-in? Thanks for asking!
As the name suggests, drive-ins allow visitors to watch a movie being projected onto a large screen, from the comfort of their own car. The fun activity is making an unexpected comeback in the coronavirus pandemic era, as its outdoor nature is suited to physical distancing requirements. There have been reports of tickets selling out in minutes for many screenings, with crowds attracted by the idea of getting out of the house for some entertainment.
Where and when drive-ins are born?
Drive-ins are a particularly American phenomenon, so if you live in the States you may well have gone to a drive-in at least once. For the rest of us, our experience is likely limited to iconic scenes from Hollywood movies. Drive-ins first appeared in the US nearly 100 years ago, with Richard Hollingshead credited as the first person to screen one in the state of New Jersey. Their popularity spread quickly, peaking after the Second World War, due to couples being reunited, the resulting baby boom and rising car ownership. Going on a date at a drive-in movie became an integral part of any American teenager’s life. Families from growing suburb populations also made the outdoor screenings their recreation of choice on weekends. During their golden age, there were as many as 4,000 drive-ins in the US, and the concept was replicated across the world. But all good things come to an end, as they say. Home cinema systems improved from the 1970s onwards, meaning people had bigger and better TV sets at home. Cinema multiplexes also popped up everywhere, stealing away audiences. Many had dismissed drive-ins as a relic of past decades, with the market shrinking by 90%. But recent events have brought on a new-found popularity, with customers coming in their thousands.
So what do drive-ins look like in this day and age? And what’s the long-term outlook for drive-ins then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/3/2020 • 4 minutes, 55 seconds
What is a Chief Happiness Officer?
What is a Chief Happiness Officer? Thanks for asking!
If you search on Google for Chief Happiness Officer positions, you’ll only find around 700 results. While not widespread just yet, the popularity of such a role is definitely on the rise, as more and more companies look to ensure their workers are kept happy.
When was born this concept?
The concept was born in Silicon Valley, but you can now find CHOs in many other places too, notably France. It’s more common in startups, as larger companies have tended to resist the trend. Nevertheless, there are some examples like Virgin or Southwest Airlines which have been seduced, or at least place a strong emphasis on employee happiness. Chade Meng-Tan was arguably the first Chief Happiness Officer to exist. The Singaporean migrated to the United States and became Google’s 102nd employee, where his official job title was “Jolly Good Fellow”. According to Meng, a manager who displays compassion, humility and ambition is a better manager. Therefore it’s important to create a link with employees, make them feel loyal and invested in the company.
What is the HR manager's role? What’s in it for companies then? Are they just doing this to reduce cases of burnout? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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6/1/2020 • 5 minutes, 36 seconds
What is Snapchat dysmorphia?
What is Snapchat dysmorphia? Thanks for asking!
Snapchat dysmorphia is a mental health condition linked to the excessive use of filters and effects on social media apps. In extreme cases users become so accustomed to seeing a transformed version of their face through selfies, that they want to get surgery to look more like their virtual self. This phenomenon is causing concern among plastic surgeons around the world.
How did this phenomenon appear?
The past decade has seen the democratisation of photo editing. That’s largely thanks to filters, which are easy to use and available to anyone with a smartphone. With just a few taps, you can give yourself cat ears or add flowers in your hair. And we don’t always realise it, but they often do more than that. They can make our skin look smoother, our noses look slimmer or eyes look bigger. Some handsets even have these functions integrated in their cameras, without the need for an app!
So it’s like a kind of digital cosmetic surgery, isn't it? Will having a Snapchat filter face be the next big trend? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/30/2020 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is corona shaming?
What is corona shaming? Thanks for asking!
Corona shaming is one of many trends to emerge during the coronavirus pandemic. Many are frustrated by others apparently not respecting public health guidelines like social distancing, lockdown rules and wearing masks. Most people have had no trouble following the rules, but it seems to have been more difficult for some. It could be a neighbour, a random person or group of people seen out and about or on the news, or it could be a celebrity. Whatever the situation, this behaviour is perceived as selfish and inconsiderate, therefore deserving a good dose of corona shaming.
The practice came about more or less the second lockdowns came into place, and has become a national pastime in many countries.One high-profile example was TV anchor George Stephanopoulos, who went into a local pharmacy, despite his wife having recently tested positive for COVID-19. The passer-by who spotted him was all the more exasperated as the pharmacy actually offered a free delivery service, making his visit unnecessary. Other stars to have been corona shamed include Jennifer Lopez for going to a gym in Miami, and Ivanka Trump, who travelled from Washington to New Jersey to celebrate Easter.
Celebrities haven’t really been the best role models in the last few weeks, have they? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/28/2020 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
What is Kawasaki Disease?
What is Kawasaki Disease? Thanks for asking!
The general consensus was that children were relatively safe from COVID-19. But since late April, a number of coronavirus-positive children have been admitted to hospital with strange symptoms, resembling those of Kawasaki Disease.
How and when Kawasaki Disease was discovered ?
The condition was discovered by Tomisaku Kawasaki in late 1960s Japan. It affects young children and the resulting damage to blood vessels can lead to serious heart problems in the worst cases. The problem is we just don’t know how to explain the causes. Scientists believe it may be an autoimmune response due to a viral or bacterial infection, to which some children are genetically predisposed. The symptoms include a high fever, skin rashes, conjunctival injection and stomach pains. Children affected by Kawasaki disease are treated in hospital as there can be serious complications. Intravenous immunoglobulin is administered in high doses, usually improving symptoms within 36 hours. Full recovery can take up to six weeks, but lasting damage is uncommon. Not a lot of people knew about this disease, due to its relative rareness. That’s especially true in Europe, which less than one in 10,000 children are affected. But in April 2020, the British health minister warned that hospitals had admitted tens of children with similar symptoms. Elsewhere in Europe, hospital services in Italy, Spain and France observed clusters of similar cases. In the United States, three children died from an inflammatory disease in early May.
So are we saying that Covid-19 could be bringing on Kawasaki disease? Regardless of whether it is in fact Kawasaki disease or not, is it caused by coronavirus? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/27/2020 • 4 minutes, 53 seconds
What is the welfare state?
What is the welfare state? Thanks for asking!
The term welfare state refers to measures taken by governments to promote the well-being of the population. This usually takes the form of grants, pensions and benefits, especially for those who have the greatest financial needs. In COVID-19 pandemic times, economies all around the world have been hit hard, and many people are asking whether states should intervene more in order to protect citizens.
When and where was the welfare state born?
Towards the end of the 19th century, German Chancellor Bismarck needed to calm social unrest and secure support among the working classes. He introduced measures like pensions and employee health insurance, which formed the basis of the modern welfare state in Europe. The welfare state is a popular concept in times of austerity, such as in the USA or UK during the Great Depression. Wealth is systematically redistributed from rich to poor. France is well known for its social security system, but that only appeared in 1945 after the end of the Second World War.
So, where does the money come from? And how is it redistributed? Will the global recession bring about an upscaling of welfare programmes? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/25/2020 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
What is locavorism?
What is locavorism? Thanks for asking!
Just like a carnivore eats meat and a frugivore feeds mainly on fruit, locavores are people who commit to a diet consisting only or principally of local food. The reasoning locavores give for their choice of lifestyle is that foods produced locally are healthier, as well as creating environmental, economic and community benefits. During coronavirus lockdowns, food supply chains have been greatly impacted on an unprecedented scale. Consumers have also adapted their eating patterns, with many choosing to eat local and seasonal as a result.
So what makes local food healthier then?
Local food has a shorter time from the moment it is harvested to being eaten at your dinner table. So it’s less likely to have lost nutrient values, compared to food which is imported from other regions or countries. What’s more, the potential for contamination is also much lower as there are fewer stages in the supply chain. Food produced far away could be subject to safety issues at the farming, washing, transportation or distribution steps. Your tastebuds will thank you too, as crops are picked when they’re at their ripest. Fruits which have to travel thousands of miles before being eaten are picked early and artificially ripened. Fresher food lasts longer too, meaning you’re less likely to waste it.
And what about the environmental benefits? Should we all become locavores? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/23/2020 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What is anosmia?
What is anosmia? Thanks for asking!
Anosmia is the clinical name for a complete loss of the sense of smell. Awareness of the disorder is somewhat low, and there is no known cure. But as many as 5% of people are impacted. With odor being intrinsically linked to taste, most sufferers also have some kind of alteration to their sense of taste. Permanent anosmia can be brought on by damage to olfactory neurons, or a brain injury. More rarely it is a congenital condition, which means the sufferer has no sense of smell from the day they are born. Temporary anosmia has been observed in a number of Covid-19 patients, drawing attention to the condition. It’s increasingly being recognized as an early symptom of the virus, with some countries like the USA and France adding it to public health guidelines. The World Health Organization also officially added it to its list of symptoms in mid-May.
Should those who lose their sense of smell be worried then?
Some data has shown that anosmia is most often experienced by those with less severe cases of the disease. Researchers from the US Department of Defense looked at a group of 169 Covid-19 patients and found that those who required hospitalization were far less likely to report a loss of smell or taste. The study’s summary went like this: “We and others have observed that anosmia manifests either early in the disease process or in patients with mild or no constitutional symptoms.” While that may sound reassuring, the authors warned that it was still too early to draw definitive conclusions.
So how does COVID-19 actually cause anosmia? And if I recover from Covid-19, will my anosmia go away? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/21/2020 • 4 minutes, 35 seconds
What is a webinar?
What is a webinar? Thanks for asking!
A webinar is a type of web conferencing, generally taking the form of a workshop, lecture or presentation. If office workers weren’t already familiar with webinars before the coronavirus pandemic, the overwhelming majority are now. That’s due to remote working practices brought on by lockdown measures in many countries.
How the term webinar was born?
The term is a portmanteau of web and seminar, which caused some controversy in linguistic spheres after first appearing. Lake Superior State University included it on its annual list of banished words in 2005. It did nevertheless make it into the dictionary the same year. There are several logistical advantages of webinars over in-person conferences. Users don’t need to travel in order to participate, and it’s more cost-effective.
Which platforms can be used for webinars? Are they safe for us? And are there safer alternatives to big platforms? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/20/2020 • 5 minutes, 6 seconds
What is zumping?
What is zumping? Thanks for asking!
Zumping is one of many new words to be invented since the start of the Coronavirus pandemic. It refers to the practice of getting dumped, or dumping someone, on video call app Zoom. Perhaps the first to talk about American journalist Julia Moser. Her tweet from April 10th asked: “Am I the first person who’s been dumped via Zoom”? Since then her tweet has been retweeted over 60,000 times and many others have shared their stories of breakups on Zoom, Facetime or Skype.
So, how "zumping" became a real word?
The Guardian invented the term zumping in reaction to the story, and Julia Moser later wrote in greater length about her experience on the Buzzfeed News website. She said: “I’m no stranger to breakups...But there is something particularly bruising about this happening in the midst of a global public health crisis. Crying over FaceTime to your sister isn’t the same as getting to wipe your snot on her shoulder IRL.”
Have every couples had a tough time being under lockdown ? Can we notice, for example, an increase of divorces since the lockdown? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/18/2020 • 4 minutes, 3 seconds
What are corona bonds?
What are corona bonds? Thanks for asking!
A political crisis is currently emerging in Europe, and it’s down to Corona bonds. The term is derived from eurobonds, which were joint bonds issued during the debt crisis at the start of the last decade. The idea is that investors loan money to the entire Eurozone bloc, which is then forwarded to individual states. It’s been a divisive issue in the past, and it’s causing debate again in the context of the coronavirus pandemic. Old tensions are being exacerbated; some countries are calling for greater solidarity from their fellow members, while others feel they shouldn’t have to bail out less responsible neighbours. Europe Day is celebrated every year on 9th May, commemorating the date of the Schuman Declaration in 1950. But in 2020 Europe is far from a celebratory mood. While member states try to contain the Covid-19 epidemic, the EU itself can’t act directly. The scope for it to legislate in health policy is limited. But it holds greater influence in economics and finance.
So, what are the solutions to the recession that's already hitting now ?
States are indeed going to have to invest large amounts of money in order to save their economies. To do so, they have to borrow from a wide range of domestic or international sources, like other states, banks and insurers.
Kind of like someone taking out a mortgage at a bank, right? And what’s been decided then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/16/2020 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
What is tocilizumab?
What is tocilizumab? Thanks for asking!
Tocilizumab is a prescription drug used to treat rheumatoid arthritis patients in over 100 countries. It’s administered by intravenous infusion in medical centres and hospitals, or by subcutaneous injection, which patients can carry out at home. In some cases, it has shown potential effectiveness in treating critically ill covid-19 patients.
What is the power of tocilizumab?
Tocilizumab was developed in the early 2000s by Swiss pharmaceutical giant Hoffman-La Roche. Its trade names are Actemra and RoActemra and it is a humanized monoclonal antibody, which blocks the interleukin-6 receptor. Believe it or not, the main danger to critically ill patients isn’t the coronavirus itself, but the response the body has in trying to fight it. That’s because the immune system can sometimes harm healthy cells by overreacting to the threat of a disease. One such example is a cytokine storm, which can lead to excessive inflammation. Cytokines are proteins which are important in cell signaling. When an illness occurs, they are released to mobilize defensive forces in the infected part of the body. Cytokine signalling usually ceases once the infection threat fades. But in the case of a cytokine storm, the alarm continues to sound, calling more and more cells and molecules. These end up causing more harm than the disease itself.
So, is there a chance that tocilizumab could work? Or is tocilizumab the new chloroquine? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/14/2020 • 4 minutes, 45 seconds
What is mass testing?
What is mass testing? Thanks for asking!
The benefit of screening for diseases is to enable early diagnosis when a person is asymptomatic. That’s the case for a large proportion of those infected with COVID-19, which is why mass testing is being championed as a solution to slow the spread of the disease. With lockdown measures being eased in many places, there’s a risk of the coronavirus circulating more freely again. To combat this, governments are ramping up their screening capacities, in order to test more widely.
But is the mass testing working in other countries?
Several countries have seemingly handled the health crisis better than others due to mass testing. South Korea has carried out more tests than any other country since the start of the pandemic. At 10,000 per day, the country was able to react quickly to new waves of infection. Meanwhile in Europe, Germany was quick to react to the danger of the virus spreading. From the end of January, they began widespread testing of those returning from countries where the virus had already struck. On the other hand, certain countries have been criticised for not reacting quickly enough in this area, even after a global pandemic had been declared. The UK government set itself a target of 100,000 tests per day, which it’s so far struggling to meet. And in the United States, researchers believe that 20 million tests would be required every day, in order to safely reopen the economy.
So how exactly are these tests carried out? And what about antibody tests? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/13/2020 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
What is an FFP2 mask?
What is an FFP2 mask? Thanks for asking!
You likely hadn’t heard of FFP2 masks in pre-COVID-19 days, but they are in huge demand right now. The FFP abbreviation stands for filtering facepiece, which pretty much explains the purpose of such a mask. They are also known as respiratory protection masks and cover half of the face, specifically the chin, nose and mouth. FFP2 masks filter dust particles in the air, as well as viruses such as COVID-19. The spotlight is currently on care workers using them as personal protective equipment in hospitals. But they are commonly used by workers in many industries when they are exposed to fine particles.
And what is the particularity of this mask?
In the European Union, the EN149 standard is used to class FFP masks from 1 to 3 according to their efficiency. As you have likely surmised, the FFP2 mask is in the middle of the range. It has a minimum filtration of 94% and maximum 8% internal leak rate. Different criteria are used to classify masks depending on the jurisdiction. In the USA, the N95 mask is considered functionally equivalent to the FFP2 mask. In China, it’s the KN95 respirator and in Australia it’s the P2 mask. During the ongoing international health crisis, wearing a mask is recommended to limit airborne transmission of the virus. However, there are shortages of suitable surgical and respiratory masks in many countries, so they are being reserved primarily for frontline care workers.
Does wearing a mask really help stop coronavirus? And what about homemade masks then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/11/2020 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
What is social distancing?
What is social distancing? Thanks for asking!
The term social distancing refers to measures taken to reduce physical contact between people to a minimum. The aim is to stop a contagious disease from spreading, in cases such as the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.
This can be done by ordering citizens to avoid shaking hands for example. Or in more extreme circumstances, people must stay a minimum distance away from others when in public, or remain under lockdown.
One of the earliest instances of social distancing was introduced in October 1918, during the Spanish Flu pandemic. Max C. Starkloff, Health Commissioner in St Louis, Missouri, closed all public venues and banned gatherings of more than 20 people.
At the official end of the lockdown, will we get back to normal? Do we risk further coronavirus peaks by coming out of lockdown? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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What is the World Health Organization?
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5/9/2020 • 4 minutes, 24 seconds
What is herd immunity?
What is herd immunity? Thanks for asking!
Also known as community immunity, herd immunity is an indirect form of protection against an infectious disease. It occurs when a high enough percentage of the population has acquired immunity either naturally or through vaccination. This then prevents the spread of the disease, protecting those who are not yet immune. Herd immunity is generally beneficial for people who cannot be vaccinated due to their medical situation, for example if they have immunodeficiency or are waiting for a transplant.
And what does it mean in the case of the COVID 19 pandemic ?
In the case of the COVID 19 pandemic, this means allowing people to gain immunity by contracting the virus and of course recovering. Their organisms build their own defense system by developing the necessary antibodies. In other words, if you are not immunized yourself, but you only encounter people who are immunized, you aren’t at risk of being infected.
The percentage of infected people varies by location, and there’s no way of having reliable data on this without widespread testing. Especially as infected people sometimes don’t show any symptoms. Experts have estimated that up to 10% of the population may have had coronavirus in some countries. In any case, the figure is a long way off the 66% required to make herd immunity effective.
So why are so many of us in lockdown then? Aren’t these measures preventing us from reaching herd immunity? Wouldn’t countries be putting their citizens in danger through such a policy? And what about all the unknown factors? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/7/2020 • 5 minutes, 8 seconds
What is the World Health Organization?
What is the World Health Organization? Thanks for asking!
The World Health Organization is a United Nations agency that is responsible for international public health. In the case of a global health pandemic, such as the ongoing Coronavirus crisis, the WHO has a central role in coordinating the response plan. However, some people have called into question its effectiveness.
When the World Health Organization was created?
The United Nations created the WHO in the aftermath of the Second World War, on April 7th 1948 to be exact. Its headquarters are located close to Geneva, Switzerland, and the agency has 7,000 employees around the world. Ethiopian Tedros Adhanom has been Director General since 2017. Due to its role as an international leader, the organization has to increase public awareness on health threats, fight illnesses and improve access to healthcare, especially in the world’s poorer countries.
One of the key principles in the WHO’s constitution reads as follows: “The enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health is one of the fundamental rights of every human being without distinction of race, religion, political belief, economic or social condition.”
In the case of emergencies, especially international epidemics, the WHO has to coordinate the action plan to prevent the illness from spreading. They do that by making official recommendations, based on the information they get from countries affected by the disease.
So is it down to the WHO that half the world’s population is under lockdown? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/6/2020 • 4 minutes, 43 seconds
What are tracking apps?
What are tracking apps? Thanks for asking!
Exceptional times call for exceptional measures, as they say. Tracking apps are now being used by governments to combat the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. In several countries, they are already live, while elsewhere, the apps are still at the development stage. Despite the obvious importance of stemming the spread of the virus, there has been much debate about resulting privacy issues.
Why do we need tracking apps then?
Many people with coronavirus experience only mild symptoms, or none at all. The problem is they are still able to transmit the disease to other people unknowingly. If a person later experiences symptoms, contact tracing can be used to help others realise they are at risk. In turn, they can then self-isolate for the required amount of time to avoid potentially spreading the disease.
The smartphone is perhaps the one item that almost all of us have in our possession constantly. It will come as no surprise to younger generations that their geolocation data is regularly collected by smartphone apps. Manufacturers and app providers have access to information on our whereabouts all the time. The difference is at the moment apps are being designed specifically for tracking purposes.
What about governments then? Do they track us in the same way as brands? And do citizens
have a say in the matter at all? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/4/2020 • 5 minutes, 23 seconds
What is care work?
What is care work? Thanks for asking!
This subcategory of the workforce includes jobs that provide services to other people. Despite doing work that is physically and emotionally demanding, care workers have long been underpaid and underappreciated in society.
But since the start of the covid-19 pandemic, they have been widely hailed as heroes. In many countries, citizens under lockdown have been holding a minute’s applause from their balconies on a daily basis, in honour of care workers.
So, who exactly are we talking about?
Of course, anyone in the healthcare sector is by definition a care worker. Through the nature of their work, people working in a hospital are at a greater risk of being infected. That’s especially true for those who have hands-on contact with infected patients, like nurses, doctors and their assistants. They are frequently referred to as being the “front line” in the fight against coronavirus. But sometimes they are being sent into battle without adequate protective equipment, like masks and gloves.
The role of workers in care homes is just as important. The older a person infected with coronavirus is, the more likely they are to have serious symptoms. Anyone who looks after one or more dependent people can be considered a care worker. So that includes childcare workers, although schools and nurseries are closed in many places for the time being.
What are the demographics of care workers? And will care workers get greater recognition once the coronavirus pandemic calms down? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!
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5/2/2020 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
What is a lockdown?
What is a lockdown? Thanks for asking!
It’s estimated that up to 50% of the world’s population has been under some form of lockdown since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak. Governments have imposed these measures to reduce physical contact and stop the disease from spreading. The current lockdown in India, which has a population of 1.3 billion people, is reported to be the largest in human history.
Although restrictions vary from country to country, the general principles of a lockdown remain the same. Only essential businesses are allowed to remain open. People are being ordered or advised to stay in their homes all the time apart from certain exceptions. Those include going to work if remote work isn’t an option, buying essential supplies like food, and helping vulnerable people like elderly family members.
Some countries require their citizens to print and sign an official form any time they go out. Law enforcement officers can then carry out spot checks.
So schooling, exercise, watching movies and dining are all exclusively home-based activities for the time being. Towns and cities across the world are practically deserted.
So, what’s the best advice for those living in lockdown?
It's best to not to let yourself go during the lockdown period. It’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, by getting regular exercise, sticking to a balanced diet and sleeping well. In most countries, citizens are allowed to do some daily exercise outdoors, as long as they avoid other people and don’t go too far from their homes.
You also need to protect your mental health. Being in lockdown and aware of the Coronavirus threat is a stressful situation for many. It’s important to get the facts from a trustworthy source of information. But if you feel anxious, consider limiting the time you spend following media coverage, especially when you’re feeling anxious.
And while we may not be able to see friends and loved ones in person, we can still stay in contact via social media and video calling apps.
When’s it all going to end then? And could we go back into lockdown mode at any time? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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4/30/2020 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
What is HouseParty?
What is HouseParty? Thanks for asking
HouseParty is a video chat app that was created in the United States in 2016 and became particularly popular among millennials. Those who download it use it for an average of 51 minutes per day. That’s comparable to Facebook and higher than other popular apps like Instagram, Messenger and Snapchat.
The current coronavirus-related lockdowns have led to a resurgence in the app’s popularity around the world. It was downloaded 50 million times in the space of just a month, which is 70 times more than usual.
Other video chat services, like Zoom and Skype, are often used by companies for remote work, whereas HouseParty is mainly aimed at younger generations. That gives it more of a fun image than its rivals.
OK so what can I do with HouseParty then?
It’s fairly basic compared to a lot of messaging apps, not having any emojis, stickers or filters. The main purpose of the app is to make video calls between up to 8 devices.
You can also play games and quizzes like Time Up and Trivial Pursuit. When one of your friends opens the app, you instantly get a notification. As you can imagine that can get pretty irritating if you have a lot of contacts, but thankfully you can turn notifications off for selected or all contacts.
To download HouseParty, you need to set up a username and verify your cell phone number. The app accesses your phone contacts in order to find people you know. You also have the option to connect to Facebook or share your HouseParty profile link on Snapchat.
One big difference with other social media apps is that friends of friends can join video chats and games. By default when you open the HouseParty app, your personal video room goes live and any of your contacts can join.
But, are there any privacy issues ? Should I avoid using HouseParty then? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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4/29/2020 • 4 minutes, 33 seconds
What are neobanks?
What are neobanks?
Neobanks are 100% digital. They run exclusively through mobile apps, with no brick-and-mortar premises. They offer customers a user-first design, and promise low cost banking operations. There are more and more neobanks around, drawing in millions of users and rivalling traditional banks, although they don’t technically hold the same status.
Don’t confuse neobanks with digital banks, which are usually the online-only arms of bigger players in the banking sector. You may have heard of the San Francisco based neobank Chime, which is the leader in the US at the moment. But brands like N26, Revolut and Monzo are also bringing over their expertise from Europe, where the online-only trend is further ahead. All were created in the late 2010s.
Ease of use is one of the main advantages with neobanks. New customers just need to download an app and can open an account without too much hassle. Other services like fund transfers, online payments and cash withdrawals are similarly user-friendly and inexpensive. Most of the time, there aren’t any income requirements or monthly maintenance fees. The interfaces are simple and foreign exchange fees are low. Some even have features enabling users to monitor their spending in certain areas and set monthly limits.
A recent neobank adoption study by Finder estimates that 54.4 million Americans already use digital-only banking services. falling coins That’s over 20% of the population. What’s more, a further 22.5 million intend to open a neobank account in the coming months.
While the digital-only nature of neobanks may seem most suited to millennials, it’s actually Generation X who use them the most. 30% of Gen Xers have made the transition to neobanks, compared to 27.2% of millennials. Baby boomers are the least likely to have a neobank account, with an adoption rate of just 8.4%.
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4/27/2020 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
What is chloroquine?
What is chloroquine? Thanks for asking!
Chloroquine is a prescription drug which has been used for many decades to treat malaria. It’s included on the World Health Organization’s list of essential medicines, which means it should be kept widely available at an affordable price for all.
Due to its antiviral properties, it has been getting a lot of attention from medical researchers as a potential treatment for Covid-19 patients.
Chloroquine was discovered in the 1930s and has been widely used to treat malaria since 1945. Malaria is a disease which humans pick up from mosquito bites in tropical regions of the world. mosquito To combat malarial parasites, the drug interferes with their essential processes while they are inside red blood cells.
Scientists discovered that a derivative of chloroquine, known as hydroxychloroquine, could be used to treat lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Its antiviral effects can increase the pH inside cells, preventing a virus from replicating.
So could hydroxychloroquine help us in the fight against the coronavirus?
The problem is that the antiviral effect is still somewhat theoretical. It’s rarely been confirmed outside of in vitro experiments. That’s because chloroquine is toxic in very small doses and can cause serious side effects. An overdose could potentially lead to fatal heart problems. When looked at for potential use against chikungunya, dengue fever, Ebola and the flu, all tests were unsuccessful.
Since the start of the current outbreak, some initial studies suggested that chloroquine could be effective in curing coronavirus sufferers. In early March, researchers at the University of Beijing were able to demonstrate its effectiveness through an in vitro trial.
And the most publicised trial was in Marseille, France. Among those who received chloroquine, 75% no longer had the virus six days later.
So why aren’t we doing everything we can to treat coronavirus patients with chloroquine? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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4/25/2020 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
What are conlangers?
What are conlangers? Thanks for asking !
A conlanger is a person who creates one or more constructed languages. These are different to most languages in that they are devised for a particular purpose, rather than evolving naturally. Most notable examples come from science fiction or fantasy franchises, like Lord of the Rings and Star Trek. Their depicted characters often communicate in constructed languages.
A first impression might lead us to believe that the incomprehensible words we hear are just a series of meaningless sounds. But in reality, these languages can actually be spoken. They have syntax, grammar and all the other necessary ingredients to be considered a language.
So could we learn a constructed language in the same way as we would learn Italian for example ?
David Peterson is one of the most well-known conlangers out there. He started out his career as a linguist and has invented 13 languages over the years, including the dothraki language spoken in Game of Thrones. HBO hired the Language Creation Society in anticipation of the series launch, and Peterson came through a competitive application process to be selected.
In several interviews Peterson has explained that the most difficult part of being a conlanger is deciding whether a particular word should exist or not. For example, the nomadic dothraki warriors don’t carry around smartphones or books with them when going into battle. So there was no need to invent a word for those objects. On the other hand, they do have 14 different words for horse.
Peterson created the roots of the language by playing around and combining letters with sounds. After building up a small amount of vocabulary, he scribbled down basic sentences, then added suffixes and prefixes to increase the number of words.
But what's the point of inventing a language that won't survive to be used in everyday life ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !
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4/23/2020 • 4 minutes, 28 seconds
What is anthropomorphism?
What is anthropomorphism?
Anthropomorphism means transferring human forms or emotions onto animals and other non-human entities. It has its origins in ancient mythology, where deities were often represented with human forms and qualities. Think of many ancient Roman or Greek gods; when they weren’t fighting battles on horseback, they were at home falling in love, getting married and having children. Even in the Bible, Genesis talks about God creating humankind in his own image.
Over time, the use of anthropomorphism has become more linked to animals. We use personal pronouns like “he” or “she” to refer to pets, and like to imagine how our furry friends are feeling, in a range of situations. We might say a dog is smiling when it bears its teeth, or that a cat is bored because it doesn’t react to our attempts to get its attention.
The trend grew bigger and bigger with the explosion of social media. Everywhere you look online, you see photos and videos of cats, dogs, and almost any kind of animal. These pictures give us the impression that animals love, think and live in the same way that we humans do. The Buzzfeed Animals Facebook page has amassed more than 4 million fans and counting.
The idea that animals have emotions and free will is seen by some as being unscientifically sentimental, or showing a lack of objectivity.
And anthropomorphism isn’t just limited to living things - it can apply to inanimate objects too. Marketing studies have shown that products which resemble a human schema in some way are seen more positively by potential buyers. That could be the front of a car appearing similar to a human face, for example.
Robots are also seen to be more trustworthy and competent when they have a face, voice and name, like humans do.
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4/22/2020 • 4 minutes, 40 seconds
What is Misophonia?
What is Misophonia?
You probably won’t find it on autocorrect or spell check, but misophonia is a condition which affects up to 15% of adults. The term literally means “hatred of sound” and it was coined in the 2000s by Margaret and Pawel Jastreboff, audiologists at the University of Atlanta. Misophonia is a condition when specific sounds trigger negative emotions, thoughts and even physical reactions.
For example, it could be the sound of a person whistling, chewing or tapping which just drives you nuts. An alternative name for misophonia is Selective Sound Sensitivity Syndrome, or 4S for short.
Some scientists believe that it’s a neurological disorder while others see it as an anxiety problem. Studies have shown that misophonia sufferers display high levels of activity in the anterior insular cortex when subjected to trigger sounds. That’s a part of the brain that processes emotions and how our attention is directed.
Like with most psychiatric problems, misophonia affects people with varying degrees. Not everyone has symptoms to the same extent. Think of that person who complained when you ate an apple too loudly in their proximity. They probably don’t need therapy. SON Even if by simply avoiding the problem, they risk disturbing social or professional relationships.
Many misophonia patients talk of a startling jolt when they hear trigger sounds, instantly taking them out of a relaxed state. It’s known as a reflexive aversive response, and they experience strong feelings like rage and disgust.
Many with the disorder report that their reactions intensify over time. There are a few options for treating or managing it. Some of the most common are antidepressants, neurofeedback, earplugs and soundproofing.
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4/20/2020 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What are dark patterns?
What are dark patterns?
A dark pattern is an online interface which has been designed to trick visitors into performing certain actions against their will. The term was coined by British UX specialist Harry Brignull in 2010. Ecommerce industries were booming and the general public weren’t necessarily aware of dark patterns.
Researchers at Princeton University carried out a study of 11,000 e-commerce sites to collect data on the phenomenon. Their algorithm found examples of dark patterns on 1,267 of the sites, equivalent to around 11%. The experts noted that the most popular sites just happened to be the ones which used the most dark patterns.
Almost certainly yes! Some kinds of dark pattern seek to make the visitor feel guilty. 160 of the Princeton study sites used Confirm-shaming, a technique which aims to steer the user towards going ahead with a purchase, despite the user’s intention being to refuse it or leave the site. For example, when turning down a discount offer, they might be forced to click on a button saying “No thanks! I’d rather pay more for my product”.
One of the most used dark patterns on e-commerce sites are messages about a product’s rareness in order to increase its desirability. These kinds of alerts show that there is only a limited quantity available or that the product is in high demand.
The Princeton researchers are hoping their study and dark-pattern-detecting algorithm will be used by government regulators. The idea is to help them better understand these techniques, which are sometimes intentionally deceptive.
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4/18/2020 • 4 minutes, 55 seconds
What is instant-runoff voting?
What is instant-runoff voting?
Also known as the alternative vote, instant runoff voting is an election method in which voters rank candidates by order of preference. It’s not massively comm on across the globe, but some mathematicians believe it to be more democratic than other widely used systems.
Just because we have the right to vote, doesn’t mean we live in a perfect democracy. The voting system in use at an election can be decisive in its outcome . Between a majoritarian system, like first-past-the-post, a proportional system, or a mix of the two; you could have different victors.
Perhaps none of them are the best method. And it’s not politicians or philosophers who are saying this, but economists and mathematicians. They believe that if there’s a problem with democracy, it’s partly down to flawed electoral systems.
So many have tried to find new ways of electing leaders with an improved political process. The theory of the alternative vote system is that voters rank candidates by preference, from favourite to least favourite. If a candidate manages to be first choice among over 50% of voters, they automatically win the election. Depending on the context, that could be unlikely, especially if there are many candidates in the race.
In the case of no majority, the least preferred candidate is removed from consideration, buzz but the votes aren’t simply thrown away. Instead, those votes go to the second favourite candidate and a new count is established. Gradually, candidates are eliminated one by one until someone has a majority.
It’s true that vote counting can be complex in an instant runoff situation. But there are advantages too. There’s only one round of voting, in theory there are no wasted votes and there is less reason for tactical voting. The system incites candidates to make pledges which appeal to the entire population, rather than targeting certain demographics.
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4/16/2020 • 5 minutes, 9 seconds
What is telehealth?
What is telehealth?
Telehealth refers to remote health services which are provided using technology. While the technologies have been around for decades, uptake has been relatively slow. That’s changed with the current COVID-19 pandemic however, as telehealth has become a must for patients and doctors alike.
The terms telehealth and telemedicine are sometimes used interchangeably, though the scope of telehealth is seen as being greater. The World Health Organisation recognises that telemedicine is “an open and constantly evolving science, as it incorporates new advancements in technology and responds and adapts to the changing health needs and contexts of societies.
The most obvious example of telehealth is a medical appointment carried out by videoconference, rather than face-to-face. You simply use an online service to book your appointment in advance and then connect to the service at the agreed time.
But other kinds of processes or procedures also fall under this label. For example, when one doctor contacts another in order to ask for their opinion, or receives guidance while performing a medical act on a patient.
Self-monitoring enables medical professionals to follow patients remotely, using various devices. This is particularly useful for long-term conditions like heart disease, diabetes and asthma. Studies of these scenarios have shown that health outcomes are generally comparable to in-person appointments, while offering greater satisfaction and cost savings.
Teleconsultations also help with other growing challenges, like caring for an ageing population, monitoring chronic conditions and providing healthcare for residents of so-called medical deserts. Those are remote areas where a previously existing hospital may have closed, and no doctors are physically based.
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4/15/2020 • 4 minutes, 26 seconds
What are desert locusts?
What are desert locusts?
Desert locusts are a type of insect which have been threatening agricultural production in Africa, Asia and the Middle East for centuries. They are phytophagous, which means they feed on plants. In early 2020, these locusts have invaded several countries in East Africa, destroying vegetation everywhere they go. Experts fear the risk of famine, in a part of the world where many already live with food insecurity.
To really understand what’s brought about the current upsurge, you have to go back to May 2018 and the Empty Quarter desert in the Arabian Peninsula. A cyclone and heavy rains created a warm, wet climate, which was ideal for desert locusts to breed and flourish. This area has no roads and is therefore not closely monitored by humans. A second cyclone later the same year enhanced this problem, with three generations of breeding occurring undetected.
The locusts started migrating towards Yemen, where a civil war prevented any intervention, and then onto the horn of Africa. Just as countries were trying to contain the breeding in late 2019, Tropical Cyclone Pawan struck. The situation was already becoming out of control and it has only gotten worse since.
Somalia has declared a state of emergency, while several other countries are already facing their worst infestation for decades. There were six major locust outbreaks in the 20th century, with the last taking place between 1987 and 1989.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, desert locusts appeared at the border with South Sudan and Uganda at the end of February 2020. That was the first time since 1944, when the insects caused a famine.
The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation has already confirmed this is the worst locust outbreak to hit the Horn of Africa for 25 years. Many are already referring to the current situation as a plague, and there’s no telling how much worse it could get.
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4/13/2020 • 5 minutes, 1 second
What is male contraception?
What is male contraception?
We’ve all heard of the pill and the coil for women, but did you know that male contraceptives also exist? The obvious examples are condoms and the withdrawal method, but new solutions are being developed in the form of gels, shots and even thermal underwear. Many have tried and failed in the past, with no such products yet achieving commercial success.
The ideal situation would be to have a form of male birth control that’s safe, effective and reversible. Of course, there are also vasectomies for those who are looking for something more permanent. As you may know, a vasectomy is a surgical procedure which consists of sealing off the tubes which carry sperm.
Male pills have already been developed. They basically rely on hormonal modifications, in the same way as female contraceptive pills. By suppressing two types of male hormones called FSH and LH, a decrease in testosterone production and sperm count is brought about. But it’s a hard sell to some guys, who feel anything that affects their male hormones will make them less of a man.
Pharmaceutical companies are looking to find other ways of making sperm less mobile, and therefore less likely to fertilize an egg. They have tried gels which can be injected into the penis or the vas deferens ducts, preventing sperm from leaving a man’s body. It’s even been speculated that something as simple as a nasal spray or a pill could be used just before sex, with an immediate effect that lasts up to two days.
Finally, thermal underwear can be used to raise the temperature in a man’s testicles, which has the effect of reducing sperm production.
While this is all very interesting, some tests have shown unwanted side effects and the methods aren’t yet ready for large-scale production. News stories spring up every now and then promising a male pill within a few years, but nothing has been able to fit the bill.
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4/11/2020 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What is OK Boomer ?
What is OK Boomer?
OK Boomer is an internet-born phrase which surfaced in 2019 to highlight the generational gap between certain people of different ages. It pits baby-boomers up against the millennials and members of gen-Z.
It all started as a viral meme on social media, which teens used to dismiss criticism of their generation, most often by so-called boomers. In the eyes of many young people, the treatment they were getting from older generations was condescending, and they needed to retaliate. One particular clip on TikTok has been viewed millions of times, featuring a white-bearded man talking about the millennials and gen-Z having Peter Pan Syndrome.
The phrase got mainstream media attention towards the end of the year, when a 25-year old New Zealand MP called Chloe Swarbrick used it in parliament. The Green Party representative was heckled by another MP while speaking about the country’s short-term politics on climate change.
Some feel it’s a pejorative form of ageism, as those who use it are effectively saying all people of a certain age are not worth listening to. Others see it as a way for the snowflake generations to cut short a debate, not being able to take any criticism.
In reality, it’s not that simple. Many younger people see it as fair game, after regularly having their views dismissed on serious subjects like climate change. In a way, OK Boomer is aimed at a mindset, rather than everybody born in a certain period of time.
But there is definitely a sense that previous generations have created a mess which millennials and Generation Z are now having to deal with. Inequality is constantly rising and there’s a global climate crisis.
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4/9/2020 • 4 minutes, 36 seconds
What is cruelty free?
What is cruelty free?
Cruelty free is a label for products which don’t cause harm to animals. This kind of guarantee is designed to reassure consumers who refuse to buy products which are tested on animals. It’s most often used to describe cosmetics, but can also apply to a wide range of other household and pet products.
There are many cruelty free labels around, but the main premise is generally the same: No end product or ingredient comes from or has been tested on animals. Suppliers have to prove they do not carry out animal testing and brands must agree to random testing.
Cruelty-free shopping had become popular by the 1990s, but the concept was sometimes misleading and confusing. Brands were designing their own logos to certify their products as cruelty-free, according to their own definition of the term. Animal protection groups were excluded and clearly this important issue needed addressing by independent organisations.
Among the many different labels seen today, two of the most strict are The Leaping Bunny Program from Cruelty Free International and Beauty Without Bunnies by PETA. Both feature extensive online databases on cruelty-free companies. Visitors can search by country, by product type and whether the company tests on animals or not. PETA require a company’s CEO to sign a statement of assurance guaranteeing they and their suppliers will never carry out any form of animal testing.
If you’re wondering which cosmetics brands are cruelty-free, Lush is one of the safest options out there. The international company has had a no animal testing policy in place since it was first created. Others include Urban Decay, Too Faced and The Body Shop.
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4/8/2020 • 5 minutes
What is...no, who is Alan Smithee?
What is...no, who is Alan Smithee?
Alan Smithee is perhaps Hollywood’s least talented director! Let me explain…
It’s not uncommon for directors to disown their projects by using a pseudonym. Most often, they are not satisfied with the movie, or feel that it does not represent their creative vision. This is often due to pressure and interference from producers or movie studios, preventing the director from keeping control of the project. Alan Smithee is one of the most used pseudonyms, as well as a few similar variants like Adam Smithee.
Until the 1960s, when making a movie went badly, the director was always heavily criticised, no matter the nature of the problems. On the other hand, when a movie achieved recognition and received an award, the producer was the one to take the acclaim. That was because producers were the ones to always approve the final cut.
Only in 1968 did the Director’s Guild of America change its rules to allow for directors to be credited under a pseudonym. That was specifically for the release of a movie called Death of a Gunfighter. During filming, the lead actor Richard Wildmark arranged for a change of director to finish the project. But neither director wished to be credited, as they felt Wildmark had been calling the shots all along. The DGA held a hearing and its panel agreed that neither director’s creative vision was represented. They found a compromise, and credited the movie to Alan Smithee.
In fairness, the pseudonym had many fooled. Esteemed film critic Roger Ebert wrote in a Chicago Sun Times review that "Director Allen Smithee, a name I'm not familiar with, allows his story to unfold naturally."
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4/6/2020 • 5 minutes, 35 seconds
What is the Blob?
What is the Blob?
The blob is a nickname for Physarum Polycephalum, a slime mold that can detect and digest food, move around and procreate. It’s ultra-resistant and has capacities for learning and transmitting information. While it had been largely ignored for a very long time, the blob and its distinctive features have been getting a lot of attention of late.
That’s largely thanks to a public unveiling in late 2019, at the city zoo in Paris, France. Scientists in the French zoo grew the blob in a petri dish, before grafting it onto tree bark when it was large enough in size.
The Blob nickname is inspired by the 1958 movie of the same name. In the movie, a gooey alien lifeform lands on planet Earth and begins consuming everything in its path, all the while growing bigger and bigger. In reality, the Blob has been present on Earth for between 500 million and 1 billion years. But humans were unaware of it for a long time and confused it for lichen or mushrooms.
The blob looks most like a mushroom, but it’s not a fungus. It produces pigments, but it’s not a plant. Finally it moves and feeds itself, but it’s not an animal either. The blob is a single-celled organism, which can be classed as a protist. That’s basically a scientific term for something that can’t be described as a fungus, plant or animal. With over 720 sex chromosome combinations, they procreate at great ease, dividing from their core and growing exponentially. A blob measuring nearly half a square mile has already been seen in the USA.
There are thousands of different kinds of blob, of all colours. It is most often yellow, but can also be found in other shades like red, pink and white. Some live on land, some in water. The blob moves around using its network of veins, but it’s not the fastest of organisms. It’s average speed varies from 1 to 4 centimetres per hour.
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4/4/2020 • 5 minutes, 3 seconds
What is a digital detox?
What is a digital detox?
A digital detox is a period of time when a person chooses to limit their use of computers and mobile devices. The aim is to reduce the stress that can be generated by technology and spend time concentrating on real-world social interactions instead. Digital detoxes are certainly in vogue - even the major internet companies are promoting it, despite the obvious role they play in facilitating our online habits.
The term Digital Detox was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2011. Since then, smartphones have become ubiquitous and 28% adult Americans admit to being online “almost constantly”, according to the Pew Research Center. Sometimes it gets close to addiction territory. And that’s why detox courses have been created, to get away from the internet and the smartphone.
These camps originated in the United States, and were brought over to Europe in the 2010s. Dedicated coaches are employed to help cell phone addicts put their devices down. This doesn’t happen in hospitals or institutions, but rather in tourist establishments like luxury hotels or country guesthouses. The packages include relaxation treatments like massages, meditation and yoga. Costwise, you’re looking at around 300 - 500 dollars for a single night.
So that’s the cushy version for office managers who overuse technology. In China, on the other hand, young digital addicts are locked up in camps where they have to follow military training.
In recent years, there has been a push towards promoting digital wellbeing. Apple, for example, has added options to its iPhone devices to reduce distractions and improve concentration. You can also set up weekly reports to find out how much time you spend on your various apps. Once past a set limit, access is automatically blocked.
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4/2/2020 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What are hikikomori?
What are hikikomori?
A hikikomori is a reclusive person who withdraws from society and lives in their own home all the time. This isolation phenomenon is mainly recognised in Japan, where it’s believed there are over one million hikikomori. Local authorities are concerned about what may happen to these people, as well as their increasing numbers.
The word hikikomori literally means “pulling inward” or “being confined”. Meanwhile, the Japanese government defines a hikikomori as a person who has remained isolated for over 6 months. That means they haven’t attended school or work, and have refused to leave their home or family home. In that time, they also haven’t had any real social interaction outside of their family circle. Despite being social recluses, hikikomori don’t necessarily have any mental health issues and they are rarely suicidal.
Each individual has their own story. People may become hikikomori due to retirement, sickness, financial difficulties or family pressure. Sociologist Teppei Sekimizu explains that Japanese society has a tendency towards collectivism. A person’s perceived worth is often based on their ability to conform to the rules of collective life. Hikikomoris don’t fit in and this leads to their acute social withdrawal. porte de prison
When this particular demographic was baptised as hikikomori in the 1990s, it mainly concerned young people who were unable to find work. Since then, it’s become more common among middle-aged people, with their numbers now matching their younger counterparts. Among hikikomori who are over 40, more than half have been isolated for over five years, and nearly 20% for 20 years or more. Some live with their parents who may be in their 70s or 80s. Others live alone and end up becoming kodokushi. That means a person who dies alone and remains undiscovered, potentially for months or years.
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4/1/2020 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
What are GINKs?
What are GINKs?
The acronym GINKs stands for “Green Inclinations - No Kids”, referring to those who consciously decide to forego having children for environmental reasons. It’s inspired by the term DINKs of the 1980s, which meant “Double Income - No Kids”. Whereas childless couples have often been accused of being selfish in the past, GINKs choose not to form a family out of a sense of eco-responsibility. It’s not all that common to come across couples who openly identify as GINKs, but it is a growing trend and many are proud of their choice.
GINKs believe that many environmental issues are caused by the earth’s overpopulation. Indeed it’s likely our planet’s resources can’t provide for the needs of an infinite number of humans. So with a world population approaching 8 billion, some believe it’s time to slow down birth rates. Having a child contributes greatly to greenhouse gas emissions, especially in developed countries where an individual’s energy consumption is high. So there’s an environmental argument for a couple limiting the number of children they have, or not having any at all. But there’s more to it than just that.
GINKs believe that the choice to lead a child-free life should be respected just as much as having kids. Many women get fed up with being told about their biological clock, or some kind of natural urge to have children which they are supposed to feel. They’re often asked “what are you waiting for?” by friends or family. Why shouldn’t they be able to reject this so-called duty, without feeling ashamed.
Environmental journalist Lisa Hymas was one of the first women to call herself a GINK, back in 2010. She highlighted additional benefits to being child-free, such as greater financial freedom, increased leisure time and greater energy to invest in a career, friendships or romantic partnerships.
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3/30/2020 • 4 minutes, 56 seconds
What is revenge porn?
What is revenge porn?
Revenge porn is the intentional sharing of private sexual content, without the consent of the person in that content. It could be explicit text messages, photos or videos, for example. Revenge porn hasn’t been around forever; it has grown with, and been facilitated by, the internet, smartphones and social media.
The humiliation and harassment that comes with it can cause severe emotional distress. Both adults and minors are at risk, with younger people often unaware of the dangers posed by internet trolls, cyberbullies and vengeful exes. While it is a relatively recent phenomenon, many countries and regions have brought in legislation against revenge porn. That currently includes all but 4 states in America, despite there being no federal law on the matter.
The issue of consent is key here. The person in the photos or videos might well have initially shared the content of their own free will. That’s common between romantic or sexual partners these days. But they almost certainly didn’t agree to the images being shared more widely, which is where it turns into revenge porn.
Some have claimed that the term revenge porn is a misnomer, because it suggests the victim did something to provoke the abuse. The most common scenario is a female victim, with the perpetrator being an ex-boyfriend, retaliating out of bitterness at how their relationship ended.
But revenge porn is often more about power and intimidation than revenge. We have seen hackers famously obtain intimate photos of celebrities and then leak them on the internet to make a name for themselves. And some offenders simply get a kick out of feeling victims are under their control. They may try to use blackmail for financial gain or to receive more explicit images from the victim. This is known as sextortion.
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3/28/2020 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
What is a sedentary lifestyle?
What is a sedentary lifestyle?
A sedentary lifestyle is one which involves little or no physical activity. It’s one of the major global health issues of the 21st century, as it is an underlying cause of death, disease and disability. It’s estimated that each year over 300,000 premature deaths are caused by obesity and sedentary lifestyles, just in the United States.
Screen time spent in front of a computer or TV is often a good indicator of how inactive a person is. When we sit down, our muscles don’t perform the important contractions our bodies need to clear glucose and fats from our blood. This in turn increases the risk of diabetes or heart problems.
Generally speaking, you can consider yourself having a sedentary lifestyle if you sit for 7 hours a day or longer. In fact, those who sit for more than 11 hours a day have a 40% higher risk of premature death than those who sit for fewer than 4 hours per day. So simply remaining seated for too long can be a matter of life and death!
Humans are increasingly inactive from an early age. A National Household Travel Study found that 54% of children aged 5 - 17 were driven to school in a private vehicle in 2017. Meanwhile, an additional 33% travelled by school bus. You can do the math, that only leaves a small percentage who walk or take public transportation.
All the while, American children are averaging 3 hours of screen time per day, which puts them at a greater risk of obesity. On weekends, that figure can rise to between 5 and 7 hours.
Staying seated for too long is bad for many health indicators, in the long term too. So it’s better to start off on the front foot. Our cardiorespiratory capacity is at its highest at the end of our teenage years. It then begins to decline from the age of 35. Therefore being fitter from an early age will reduce risks when you get older.
Nowadays, inactivity is a bigger killer than tobacco, as it affects a far greater number of people. Having a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure.
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3/26/2020 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
What is CBD?
What is CBD?
CBD is short for Cannabidiol, which is one of the chemical components found in cannabis. Not being psychoactive, CBD is legal in many countries. But it’s also claimed that CBD has several health benefits. That’s why demand has been growing around the world for a few years now.
Cannabis is illegal in most countries, mainly because it contains the psychoactive chemical Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC for short. But cannabis also contains CBD, which has an almost identical structure to THC, just without causing a high. Furthermore, the greater the quantity of CBD in cannabis, the lower the effect of THC on the brain. That’s because it doesn’t directly trigger the cannabinoid receptors found in our bodies.
So CBD is allowed in a lot of places, and it’s been federally legal in the United States since 2018. However, many states have restrictions on which CBD products are allowed. Because there are almost endless possibilities when it comes to potential derived products. We’re talking vape kits, oils, sweets, creams, toothpastes, shampoos and even pet products.
The enthusiasm for CBD products is such that expected market growth in the US is 700%. In Europe, dedicated stores are popping up across many major cities. And the clientele age ranges anywhere from 30 to 80 years old.
It’s claimed that CBD has a range of medicinal and relaxing benefits. It’s classed as an anti-inflammatory agent, which means it could have a painkilling effect for sufferers of Crohn’s disease. It could also be used to treat psychosis, anxiety or epilepsy. All the same, scientific research is lacking and doctors have a hard time saying what dose of CBD would have positive effects. While that remains blurred, brands and stores are pushing CBD hard, promoting claims about its benefits in all forms, and selling more and more.
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3/25/2020 • 4 minutes, 2 seconds
What is a narcissistic pervert?
What is a narcissistic pervert?
It seems like we hear about narcissistic perverts pretty often these days. They are charming manipulators who often turn their partners’ or families’ lives into hell. So, are we all surrounded by narcissistic perverts?
The term has its origins in psychoanalysis. It was coined in the 1980s and began to get more attention at the start of the 21st century. Narcissus was a mythical figure from ancient Greek times, known for his pride and beauty. He met his demise when gazing into his own reflection in a pool of water. He became so entranced that he ended up drowning without realising what was happening.
Narcissistic perverts are characterised as having a negative self-image. They lie to and belittle others in order to increase their own self-esteem. They act like they are better than others, need to be admired and are conscious of their manipulation skills, all the while feeling no empathy when seeing others suffer.
More often than not, narcissistic perverts are male. They may cause harm to their romantic partner, but it could also be a work colleague, friend or family member. The causes of this behaviour haven’t been identified, but psychologists believe an overprotected childhood, with high expectations, may be a cause. On the other hand, narcissistic perverts could also have been abused or neglected as children.
There’s no need to overreact and fear encountering narcissistic perverts everywhere. The description has become prominent in popular psychology, often discussed in the media. It was also one of the most searched terms on Google in 2019. Nevertheless, they’re not hanging out on every street corner. The term is also not formally recognised in psychiatry, so there are no official figures on how many narcissistic perverts are really out there. But the similar sounding narcissistic personality disorder only affects between 0.5 and 1% of the general population. We might be too quick to label people, when they display one or more character traits which are synonymous with this disorder.
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3/22/2020 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
What is Flygskam?
What is Flygskam?
Flygskam is a Swedish neologism, which literally translates into English as “flight shame”. Confronted with the high level of pollution generated by this form of transport, more and more people are ashamed of travelling by plane. Some are even going as far as boycotting it as a means of transport, a trend which is of course of concern to airlines and plane manufacturers.
The word originated in Sweden in 2017, but really entered the mainstream in the English-speaking world a couple of years later. That was largely due to the growing fame and speeches of Greta Thunberg. This shame of travelling by air comes from growing awareness of environmental issues. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimates that aviation is responsible for 3.5% of global climate change. They estimate that figure could grow to 5 - 15% by 2050, if action isn’t taken to cut emissions.
It’s the wealthy who contribute the most towards air pollution. According to a study by non profit organization The International Council on Clean Transportation, 12% of the American population account for two-thirds of total flights out of the USA. These frequent flyers average 6 or more return journeys per year. Of course, that means they are also responsible for two thirds of the resulting greenhouse gas emissions.
Some governments have taken action already, by bringing taxes on kerosene, one of the main aviation fuels. In the European Union, kerosene is currently exempt from taxation but activists are campaigning to revoke that agreement. In the meantime, another solution is to not take the plane at all, opting for shorter-distance journeys which can be made by train.
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3/21/2020 • 4 minutes, 21 seconds
What is Asperger Syndrome?
What is Asperger Syndrome?
Asperger Syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder, characterised by difficulties in social interactions and restricted interests. Asperger’s is often diagnosed late, which is why associations run campaigns to increase awareness. International Asperger’s Day is celebrated every year on the 18th of February, to educate the general public and highlight the challenges faced by those with Asperger’s.
People living with Asperger Syndrome can have a hard time building friendships or romantic relationships, due to the difficulties they have understanding social conventions. They also have repetitive behaviour and very specific interests.
The syndrome was named after Austrian paediatrician Hans Asperger. As a child, Asperger himself had trouble finding friends and was talented in language. Years later he observed similar traits among child patients in his clinic and published a paper on the findings.
Asperger Syndrome came into mainstream consciousness in the 1980s and was added to the umbrella diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder in 2013.
Asperger Syndrome is a form of autism, but autism itself is characterised by some intellectual deficit or language learning impairment. That’s not the case with Asperger’s. In fact, people with the syndrome tend to use a relatively sophisticated level of language. They may however struggle to understand metaphors or irony, usually taking things at face value and being very direct.
The lives of those with Asperger’s are complicated due to physical clumsiness, as well as hypersensitivity to noise, light and odours. More generally, they can have trouble recognising their own emotions and the emotions of others. They can’t always interpret forms of non-verbal communication like gestures and facial expressions.
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3/19/2020 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
What is the Halo Effect?
What is the Halo Effect?
The Halo Effect is a form of cognitive bias, whereby we base our overall opinion of a person on a single characteristic. It’s most often a positive characteristic, hence the name - it’s as if we see the person as having a halo.
The Halo Effect was named in 1920 by American psychologist Edward Thorndike. He carried out an experiment among commanding officers in the military. They had to evaluate their soldiers on a number of physical characteristics and personality traits. The officers tended to associate superior physique with superior intellect, loyalty and leadership. On the other hand, when their perception created a negative aura around a soldier, they could only see negative characteristics. This is known as the “reverse halo effect”, or “horns effect”.
Our brains find it hard to accept anything that contradicts our first impression of another person. That rings true even when we are presented with evidence to the contrary. That’s because our minds actively look for information to confirm pre-existing beliefs.
The Halo Effect can lead to forms of appearance discrimination in many domains. In the professional world, a physically attractive job hunter may be seen as more intelligent and competent than other candidates, even if it’s not really the case. If a recruiter notices a positive trait in the candidate, they tend to pay less attention to their flaws.
The candidate would then have a higher chance of being recruited for a skilled job, as well as greater salary expectations. Being tall is also beneficial in terms of earning more money. According to one study, we earn 300$ more per year for every extra centimetre in height.
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3/18/2020 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
What is a power nap?
What is a power nap?
A power nap is a short sleep which is long enough to give an energy boost, but not so long that you enter deep sleep. The term was coined by American social psychologist James Maas, a professor at Cornell University. Science shows that power naps could be of benefit to employees in the workplace, where efficiency is key.
Sometimes, a power nap lasts just a few seconds, in which case it’s referred to as a microsleep. Dali would do it in a seated position, holding a spoon between his fingers. When he started to fall asleep, his grip on the spoon would loosen and the sound of the spoon hitting the floor would of course wake him up immediately. Microsleeps can be experienced in front of our computers, or in public transport, when we are woken by our heads nodding. Power naps supplement regular sleep, in order to maximise its benefits for the body. That’s especially true for those who don’t get enough sleep at night time.
The ideal length of a power nap is 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the body enough time to enter a light sleep stage and remain there for at least 2 minutes. It also helps us to feel in good shape for a whole afternoon. Nevertheless, be careful not to go over 30 minutes when napping. Otherwise you may enter a deep sleep phase. That can result in feeling groggy and disoriented when waking up, basically more tired than before starting the nap and wiping out its benefits.
For many years, scientists have been studying the benefits of sleep, in the form of both naps and longer length. Tests have been run on a wide range of cognitive processes, generally showing naps to be as beneficial as a full night’s sleep for some memory-related tasks. Other studies have shown the possible impact of napping on our health, in particular reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
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3/16/2020 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
What is Deep Learning?
What is Deep Learning?
Deep learning is a machine learning method based on artificial intelligence. With deep learning, machines are able to learn by themselves. That differs from programming, where they simply execute predetermined rules.
Deep learning relies on artificial neural networks inspired by the human brain. These networks are made up of tens or hundreds of layers of neurons, each receiving and interpreting information from the preceding layer. Deep learning is based on these algorithms, as well as image recognition and robotic vision. The higher the number of neurons, the deeper the network. The system learns to recognise letters and words in text, or faces in photos, which it can then identify.
Let’s imagine we want to use a neural network to recognise photos in which at least one cat is present. In order to identify cats in the images, the algorithm needs to be able to distinguish different types of cat, and to recognise the cat no matter what angle the picture is taken from.
To do this, the neural network has to be trained. It has to compile a selection of images to practice deep learning. This would be made up of thousands of examples of different cats, mixed with images of objects which are not cats. These images are then converted into data and transferred onto the network. The artificial neurons assign a weight to each different element. The final layer of neurons reassembles all the information to determine if it is indeed a cat or not.
The neural network then compares this response to correct answers given by humans. If the answers match, the network remembers this success and will reuse it later in order to recognise cats. If wrong, the network also notes the error and adjusts the weight on the various neurons to correct it. The process repeats thousands of times until the network is able to recognise a cat in an image without fail.
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3/13/2020 • 4 minutes, 44 seconds
What is a pension fund?
What is a pension fund?
A pension fund is a retirement scheme created by a company or public employer in order to save money for its employees. Belonging to a pension fund may be compulsory or optional. Employees make contributions to the fund, as do employers most of the time.
When an employee retires, they can choose to receive a lump sum right away, or a series of regular payments throughout their retirement, like an annuity. That’s how a funded pension scheme works, because the plan has enough assets to pay retirees for the foreseeable future. On the other hand, with unfunded plans, payments are made directly from contributions and no capital is accumulated.
The pension fund system first developed in Scotland, with the creation of the “Scottish Widows” scheme in 1815. That insured widows of Scottish soldiers killed during the Napoleonic wars with France. Nowadays, pension funds are particularly common in the United States, but the largest pension fund in the world is Japan’s Government Pension Investment Fund. It was created in 1954 and now manages assets of $1.4 trillion.
Pension plans rely on asset management companies to look after the contributions they receive. These companies, generally banks, insurers or specialists, aim to maintain the capital held in the fund and make a profit. American global investment management corporation BlackRock is the number one in the world, with over $7 trillion in assets managed as of the end of 2019.
Their activities are strictly regulated. Each country has its own prudential standards. All capital collected must be divided between a number of asset classes. The primary law governing pension plans in the USA is the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974.
Some funds are defined benefit pension plans, whereby the pension payment or lump sum is guaranteed. But these are getting rarer and rarer, giving way to defined contribution schemes. This means only the contributions collected are guaranteed.
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3/12/2020 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What is 5G?
What is 5G?
5G is the fifth and newest generation of mobile connectivity. Its commercial rollout has already begun, with the four major US carriers having begun deployment in 2019. The GSMA estimates that 5G will account for 20% of all global connections by 2025. What’s more, this technological advance is at the heart of many economic and geopolitical issues. But associations and researchers have also warned on the potential risks 5G represents to health and the environment.
Supporters of 5G have made big promises. Compared to 4G, the technology should allow for connection speeds which are 10 to 100 times faster, with minimal latency. These connection speeds are perfect for playing the most demanding of online games and streaming series in the highest quality available without any loading.
Above and beyond that, 5G marks a further step in the development of “Smart cities”, in which all kinds of connected objects communicate between one another. One of the main technologies standing to benefit from 5G is the driverless car. It’s anticipated that the reaction time of self-driving cars will improve to 1 millisecond thanks to 5G, making them smarter and safer.
That’s why this new generation is presented by governments as being a major strategic industrial development.
On the other hand, associations have warned about risks of insomnia, infertility and even cancer. The World Health Organisation does indeed class electromagnetic waves as a possible cause of cancers.
Experts have responded by saying that 5G waves have a length of around 3.5 GHZ, thus smaller than 4G waves. Therefore, they couldn’t cause cell damage, but may still be harmful to skin, eyes, eardrums, nerve endings and blood circulation.
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3/11/2020 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What is blue light?
What is blue light?
Blue light is a type of high-energy visible light, with a wavelength between 400 and 450 nanometers. It is emitted by many sources of light, from the Sun to LED screens. Scientists have issued warnings about the dangerous nature of blue light. All the same, it’s not certain that the “night mode” on our devices is any better for our eyes.
In recent decades, the general public’s exposure to blue light has massively increased. This is due to LED screens being much more present in society, in artificial lights, as well as smartphone, tablet and computer screens.
According to scientists, blue light can be dangerous. It can lead to impaired version, and is allegedly a risk factor for cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Furthermore, being exposed to blue light in the evening or at night can disturb our circadian rhythm. Past studies have suggested that it suppresses melatonin, a hormone which affects sleep. To sum up, the more we are exposed to blue light, the more our sleep quality is affected.
Since the risks associated with blue light were discovered, smartphone and PC manufacturers have developed “night modes” for their devices. When activated, displays automatically shift to an orange-yellow tint from a certain time in the evening through to sunrise.
But a study published in December 2019 showed that night mode may not actually be better than blue light, and could even be worse. Researchers at the University of Manchester carried out experiments on mice. They found that blue light was less disruptive to their sleep, compared to yellow light of the same brightness.
This may be because “cold” colours, such as blue, are closer to the colour of natural nighttime light. Whereas on the other hand, it’s more natural to look at warmer colours during the day. Our body clocks rely on shades of light to determine whether it’s time to sleep or be awake. Blue light may therefore disturb sleep less than night mode, which uses daytime colours.
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3/9/2020 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
What is the Green New Deal?
What is the Green New Deal?
The Green New Deal is a proposed package of legislation in the United States, designed to tackle climate change. It was introduced by Democrats and could revolutionise the American economy, if it is ever put into practice.
If the name “Green New Deal” sounds familiar, it’s likely because it refers to President Roosevelt’s New Deal of the 1930s. That consisted of a series of public works programs and financial reforms, aiming to revive the economy in response to the Great Depression of 1929.
This important moment in American history is indeed inspiring the left wing, who wish to implement a Green New Deal. They believe that global economic and environmental crises are both caused by a system which is at breaking point. And that if governments do nothing to combat this, we could be on our way to disaster.
The proposals call for a 10-year mobilisation to drastically reduce carbon emissions in the USA. Firstly, fossil fuels (gas, carbon and petrol) would be abandoned and workers would be trained to perform new jobs in a post-ecological transition society.
Massive investments in transport, agriculture and energy would be required to make them cleaner. Meanwhile, polluting energies would no longer be subsidized under the Green New Deal. By 2030, 100% of the USA’s electricity would be sourced from renewable and zero-emissions power. To address social justice, the government would have a duty to provide job training to those who previously worked in fossil fuel industries.
One of the leading figures behind the Green New Deal is Democrat congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. She first made history by being the youngest ever woman to be elected to Congress in 2018, and has made a name as a real media phenomenon.
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3/7/2020 • 4 minutes, 52 seconds
What is Stendhal syndrome?
What is Stendhal syndrome?
Stendhal’s syndrome is a rare and unusual psychological disorder. It’s a psychosomatic condition whereby certain people suffer from a rapid heartbeat, fainting or even hallucinations, when exposed to objects or works of art of great beauty. The condition takes its name from a famous French writer who experienced a similar state of intense emotion upon visiting Rome, Naples and Florence. Stendhal wrote about his visit to Florence’s Santa Croce Basilica in a book entitled Naples and Florence: A journey from Milan to Reggio.
Here’s how he described the phenomenon: “I was in a sort of ecstasy, from the idea of being in Florence, close to the great men whose tombs I had seen. Absorbed in the contemplation of sublime beauty...I reached the point where one encounters celestial sensations ... Everything spoke so vividly to my soul...I had palpitations of the heart...Life was drained from me. I walked with the fear of falling”.
Although there are historical records of others fainting in the presence of Florentine art, the syndrome was only actually named in 1979 by Italian psychiatrist Graziella Magherini. While Stendhal Syndrome is not recognised as a psychiatric disorder, it’s now commonly used to describe a physical reaction to the beauty of the natural world or art masterpieces.
Working at the Santa Maria Nuova hospital in Florence, Magherini observed more than 100 cases where patients had severe emotional responses to art. These were mainly tourists, including many Americans. In 1989, she released a book named “The Stendhal Syndrome”, in which she told her story. The cases were divided into three types, based on the symptoms of their anxiety or psychotic episodes. The most common profile was a single woman, under the age of 40, travelling alone. Symptoms described in the book included dizzy spells, a loss of sense of identity, rapid heartbeat and hallucinations. Generally speaking, patients recovered after leaving the city of Florence.
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3/5/2020 • 5 minutes, 1 second
What is solastalgia?
What is solastalgia?
Solastalgia is the distress we feel when our local environment is transformed, mainly due to climate change. These transformations can have an effect on people’s mental health. So are we all doomed to suffer from solastalgia as the earth’s temperature rises?
Climate change is so omnipresent in our daily lives, that it can create a certain anxiety. For some people, this gets so intense that they become depressed, like Greta Thunberg after watching a documentary on polar bears. All over the world, climate-related anxiety is increasing.
There are several terms to describe this. We talk about eco-anxiety with regards to the feeling we have that everything makes us think about climate change problems. And eco-paralysis when we feel helpless to do anything to prevent environmental issues.
Meanwhile, the term solastalgia is a portmanteau of the words “solace” and “nostalgia”. It was created in 2003 by philosopher Glenn Albrecht, while he was working at the University of Newcastle in Australia. Albrecht himself describes solastalgia as “a type of homesickness or melancholia that you feel when you’re at home and your home environment is changing around you in ways that you feel are profoundly negative.
Unlike eco-anxiety or eco-paralysis, which are more general and look to the future, solastalgia is about the here and now. It is linked to the hardship of losing one’s environment or habitat. The most obvious victims are those whose landscape has been hit by some kind of natural disaster. One example would be refugees returning to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.
A report from the American psychology Association found that up to 40% of natural disaster victims suffer PTSD, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. Of course, solastalgia doesn’t affect everybody equally. Wealthier individuals and families are more easily able to relocate or rebuild their homes, compared to poorer households.
Other examples include Canadian Inuit communities coping with rising temperatures and Ghanaian subsistence farmers having to deal with changes in rainfall patterns.
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3/4/2020 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
What is computer vision syndrome?
What is computer vision syndrome?
From our smartphone screens first thing in the morning to an evening spent in front of the TV, electronic visual displays are an inescapable part of our daily routines. In the middle, many have a 9 to 5 job sat in front of a desktop, not to mention checking social media or playing games to speed up the daily commute. Computer vision syndrome refers to eye strain caused by overuse of electronic screens. The whole eye is affected by this strain, leading to symptoms like headaches, back and neck pains, blurred vision and the inability to focus.
Those who spend their whole working day in front of a computer screen are most likely to suffer from computer vision syndrome. Looking into a screen all day long requires a great deal of concentration, which means we blink a lot less than we need to. The eye therefore becomes dry, affecting the conjunctiva and cornea. Our eyes move constantly, which explains how they become tired and vision can be blurred. However, there’s not enough scientific perspective and detailed research to really understand the impact of this screen consumption on our overall health and eyes in particular.
Visual system development in children is long and sensitive. The quality of a child’s visual experience is critical in this process. Neuroplasticity is most active in children under the age of 6. It then gradually decreases until 10 - 12 years old. So parents should limit children’s exposure to electronic screen between those ages, while vision is developing.
One golden rule is the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This gives our eyes a well-deserved break to remoisten and helps reduce symptoms. Another tip is to remember to blink, which we are supposed to do 12 times per minute on average. In front of a computer screen, however, we only blink 5 times a minute, which brings on the eye drying effect. You can treat the discomfort with eye drops or simply by forcing yourself to blink.
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3/2/2020 • 4 minutes, 13 seconds
What is berberine?
What is berberine?
Berberine is a natural alkaloid, which means it’s an active compound of plant origin. It’s found in a lot of dietary supplements due to its supposed benefits against certain diseases. Basically, berberine is often seen as medicinal, without really having the status. Like any medicine, it can have harmful side effects.
Berberine can be found in the roots and bark of berberis plants, like barberry, Chinese coptis or goldenseals. It’s used in Chinese medicine to treat stomach infections like bacterial diarrhea.
Berberine is getting more attention in the USA, partly due to its neuroprotective qualities and even more so its effect on blood sugar levels. It could reduce blood sugar and cholesterol, making it of interest to those suffering from diabetes.
Dpctors aren't yet prescribing berberine, as there’s not enough research out there to justify it being a treatment on its own. But it’s pretty easy to find berberine in dietary supplements. It has a real pharmacological effect on our cardiovascular, nervous and immune systems, not to mention metabolism. The standard dose for an adult is 1500mg per day, broken down into three equal doses. Research suggests this amount can be equally as effective as other pharmaceutical drugs in treating type 2 diabetes.
Like any medicine, berberine can have side effects like low blood sugar or fat levels. It can also cause uterine contractions and interfere with other medicines. Taking berberine when undergoing cancer treatment could make the treatment itself less effective.
That’s exactly what certain European countries have done. Slovenia, Sweden, Greece have all banned the sale of dietary supplements containing berberine. Meanwhile, Belgium and Poland recommend a maximum dose of 10mg per day. It’s not recommended for women to consume berberine during pregnancy or lactation. The same goes for children and teenagers, while people with diabetes or heart problems should always get medical advice before taking berberine.
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2/29/2020 • 4 minutes, 11 seconds
What is conversion therapy?
What is conversion therapy?
Conversion therapy, also known as homotherapy, is a pseudoscientific practice that seeks to convert homosexuals to heterosexuality, or at least encourage them to be abstinent. Largely pushed by religious groups, this kind of therapy is still growing in Europe and America. The practices are not only ineffective, but can also be dangerous.
Conversion therapy first appeared in 1950s North America. Sexologists would treat homosexuality like a neurological disorder. So gay people underwent treatments like lobotomies or electric shocks with the aim of changing their sexual orientation. In the 1970s, it was finally recognised that homosexuality was not a psychiatric problem. And only in 1992 did the World Health Organization take it off its list of mental illnesses!
That said, conversion therapy has continued to exist, and is commonplace in countries like the USA or Poland. Sessions are often run by religious movements, and especially Catholic ones, who consider that being gay is a sexual deviance or the work of the devil.
These groups offer courses with varying degrees of forcefulness. There could be talking groups, some kind of bootcamp filled with rituals, so-called healing prayers, or exorcisms.
All this pseudotherapy does is make gay people feel guilty, causing self-hatred and pushing them towards alcoholism, depression or even suicide.
That’s why some countries are trying to put an end to these practices. It’s already the case in Brazil, China and Malta, where measures have been taken against conversion therapy.
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2/27/2020 • 3 minutes, 46 seconds
What is digital sobriety?
What is digital sobriety?
Digital sobriety is all about reducing the ecological footprint of our daily digital lifestyles. That’s right, using your cell phone, PC or connected refrigerator all contributes to pollution. And it’s on the rise.
The transition to digital technology is often presented as being a positive evolution, especially with regards to reducing household energy consumption. But current practices are contributing to global warming, according to think tank “The Shift Project”. In their 2018 report, researchers highlighted the negative impact of digital technologies, which are consuming 9% more energy every year.
Developed countries are the main culprits. The average American owns 10 connected devices and consumes 140 gigabytes of data per month. Compare that with the average Indian, who owns a single digital device and consumes just 2 gigs of data.
There are several different ways that taking photos or watching Youtube videos can contribute to pollution. A large part of the pollution is due to the manufacturing process of digital devices, especially smartphones. That accelerates the extraction of certain polluting metals and emits greenhouse gases in high quantities. Even if you forget the production process, web browsing requires a large amount of energy.
You’ve got our devices which constantly need charging and you’ve got the servers on which all the data is stored. Digital consumption now contributes more to global warming than the entire aviation industry. Video streaming, one of our favourite pastimes, uses up 80% of the world’s bandwidth.
Without needing to go back to the Stone Age, some experts have talked up the benefits of “digital sobriety”. The term was coined in 2008 by Green IT. We can reduce our video consumption by using a lower definition, or by not sharing our entire weekend in Instagram stories or the family Whatsapp group. Other tips include keeping email inboxes clean, turning off wifi routers at night and opting for a wifi connection where possible. That’s because 4G creates 23 times more pollution than wifi!
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2/26/2020 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What is slashing?
What is slashing?
Don’t worry, there’s nothing barbaric about this kind of slashing. In fact, the origin comes from the forward slash symbol we all use on our keyboards.
Slashers are those who go from one job or career to another. The term was coined in 2007 by Marci Alboher, author of One Person/Multiple Careers. It is used to describe people who have 2 or 3 jobs at the same time. For example, a school cleaner who babysits in the evening. Or someone who waits tables during the daytime and DJs at a nightclub.
The US Census Bureau found that around 13 million Americans had more than one job in the year 2013. Their report looked at individuals holding up to seven different positions within a 12-month period.
To start with, employees tended to become slashers by necessity. Unsatisfied with their salary, they would look to supplement it with a second income. But nowadays, more and more people are choosing to take on a second or even third job for other reasons. College graduates entering the employment market are free to build their own custom-made careers, filled with slashes.
Younger generations like the millennials or Generation Z are keen to challenge established customs and practices within companies. Check out our episode on Generation Z to find out more!
Where older generations spent the entirety of their career with a single employer, under 35s nowadays prefer to vary their experiences.
Slashing generates mixed feelings among the working population. 64% of 18 - 24 year olds see it as a future standard. Meanwhile, 38% of others see an uncertain future ahead, with 30% expecting their professional stress to increase in the coming years.
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2/24/2020 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What is batch cooking?
What is batch cooking?
Batch cooking is a technique of preparing meals in large quantities, to be stored for consumption over several days. Generally done during one extended weekend session, batch cookers can then spend less time on food preparation over the course of the week.
There’s nothing ground-breaking in the idea, but it is coming back into fashion. For the unenlightened, batch cooking isn’t just about preparing a massive dish to eat 3 days in a row.
It’s more about blending ingredients. You can cook basic ingredients like cereals, vegetables and meat with a neutral flavor. Then each day, you add spices and condiments, maybe cook the dish for a few minutes and get your final product.
Never having to wonder what you’ll be eating for dinner can be liberating. A Sunday afternoon spent batch cooking also means an opportunity for quality family time. Everyone can come up with seasonal suggestions for the week’s meals and new recipes or variations to try out.
Once the menus have been planned out, it’s off to the store to stock up on ingredients. Batch cooking also helps reduce food waste and make savings by only buying the required quantities.
Depending on your personal situation, a couple of hours spent batch cooking can mean family fun, whereby recipes are passed down to children. It could be a shared activity with your roommate. Or if on your own, you can stick some music on or catch up on the latest podcast episodes. What better way to spend a Sunday?!
Batch cooking doesn’t leave a whole lot of room for improvisation. But you don’t have to stick to the plan religiously if it means depriving yourself of pleasures. You can always take the remaining food to work for lunch the following day.
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2/22/2020 • 3 minutes, 36 seconds
What is aquaponics?
What is aquaponics?
OK, from the start I can tell you aquaponics isn’t related to aquabike, aquagym or any other Sunday morning aquatic activities.
So forget about ponies in the swimming pool, please!
Aquaponics is a revolutionary system of production combining aquaculture and hydroponics. Essentially that means fish are raised and plants are cultivated in the same symbiotic environment. It’s a 100% eco-friendly environment where everything is reused and nothing is lost!
In this day and age, one in three fish come from aquaculture which effectively means they are farmed. In aquaponic systems, food is given to the fish being raised, who then produce ammonia through their excretions.
Bacteria have an essential role to play in aquaponics, by breaking down ammonia and urea from the dirty water into nitrates. The water is then pumped into a container acting as a hydroponic subsystem, where the plants can benefit for nourishment.
With all potentially harmful substances having been removed, the purified water is then pumped back into the rearing tanks, without presenting any danger to the fish.
The containers simply play the role of a filter, in a totally virtuous ecosystem. It’s organic, natural and sustainable!
Aquaponic systems are raised to an accessible height, meaning you can do gardening at home without hurting your back. They pretty much manage themselves too!
The only water loss you get in aquaponics is from absorption by plants and evaporation. There’s no waste either as you can use sludge from the filtering process to fertilise your land plants.
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2/20/2020 • 4 minutes, 18 seconds
What is serotonin?
What is serotonin?
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which is widely associated with feelings of happiness and well-being, although it does have other wide-ranging biological functions. It’s a molecule produced in order to regulate communication among other neurons in our brains.
To feel happy, our brains rely on a wide range of similar hormones, including serotonin. Other examples are endorphins, which are like a natural form of morphine, and oxytocin, which is the hormone linked to affection and security. The interesting thing about serotonin and other wellbeing hormones is that we are able to stimulate their production by controlling our lifestyle, hygiene and food consumption.
Nutrition is one of the keys to achieving serotonin nirvana. Banana-based smoothies, for example, are rich in vitamin B, magnesium and tryptophan, while avocado based ones are rich in stress-reducing tyrosine.
You can also sprinkle pumpkin, chia and sesame seeds on your salad for a boost in zinc and Omega 3. So long live sardines, bluefin tuna and halibut, all rich in essential fatty acids, which the body isn’t able to produce on its own. These help raise serotonin and melatonin levels.
And don’t forget tryptophan, an amino acid which is a precursor to serotonin. It’s present in chicken, fish and legumes like split peas, lentils and dried beans.
Fermented ingredients also do wonders for our intestines, which are like a “second brain” lined with neurotransmitters, as outlined by Dr Michael Gershon in his book of the same name. We’re talking the likes of pickles, fermented cabbage and yoghurt, which can have a positive effect if eaten three times a week.
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2/19/2020 • 5 minutes, 3 seconds
What is Google Stadia?
What is Google Stadia?
Stadia is the name of the cloud gaming service launched by Google in late 2019. The American tech company observed the high levels of pollution generated by video game consoles and computers. That could be due to the production process or regular use by gamers.
They decided to launch Stadia, allowing users to play on their TV, smartphone or computer without the need for any additional hardware. With cloud gaming, you just need to click on a link to set up a game from whatever connected device you’re using. In simple terms, the launch of Stadia aims to provide a viable alternative to PC gaming.
Gamers have become accustomed to obtaining powerful PCs and consoles. The constant evolution of gaming graphics means many feel the need to regularly change equipment in order to keep up.
With Stadia, image processing is handled in real time by Google data centers, so the computer simply receives the video stream. Gamers can therefore play high-quality games on a low-quality device, at least in theory!
Google isn’t really known as a big player in gaming, so the company has to be commercially aggressive in order to make its mark. That’s exactly the aim of the Founders’ Pack, which includes a limited edition blue Stadia controller, a Chromecast Ultra, the game Destiny 2 and a free 3-month subscription to Stadia Pro, all for 130$.
There are two regular subscription options, the first of which is Stadia Pro. For around 10$ a month, you get access to a limited selection of games. The second option, Stadia Base, is totally free. But image resolution is limited to 1080p while Stadia Pro subscribers get to play in 4K. Players also have to pay for every individual game they want to play.
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2/17/2020 • 5 minutes, 5 seconds
What is the Mozart Effect?
What is the Mozart Effect?
What if listening to 10 minutes of Mozart could increase your IQ? That’s exactly what Frances Raucher and her Californian research team suggested back in 1993. The theory spread like wildfire around the world, leading to much speculation about the so-called Mozart Effect.
The myth comes from the publication of an experiment in American scientific journal Nature. The study required participants to listen to The Sonata for Two Pianos in D Major, K 448 by Mozart. After just 10 minutes, they were better able to solve spatial intelligence tasks which are part of IQ testing.
These findings made headlines all over the globe. Soon Mozart was being played to everyone from pregnant women to newborns babies and rats. Some American states made it compulsory for kindergartens and nurseries to play Mozart to children on a daily basis. Needless to say, the market for Mozart audio products exploded.
But controversy followed as a number of subsequent studies contradicted Rauscher’s findings. A team in the University of Vienna’s psychology department looked at around 3,000 cases across 40 studies. The team’s leader, Jakob Pietschnig, stated that “there is no proof of the Mozart effect”, while reminding everyone that the 1993 study was only carried out on a very small sample size of 36 students.
The reality is whether you’re listening to Mozart, Michael Jackson, Beyonce or Eminem, there’s no real difference. Music we enjoy improves our cognitive faculties because it stimulates increases in our mood and arousal.
Rauscher herself actually later disclaimed the idea that listening to Mozart could somehow make a person smarter. She referred to this as a misconception, underlining that the effect was limited to spatial-temporal tasks involving mental imagery and temporal ordering.
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2/15/2020 • 4 minutes, 15 seconds
What is freeganism?
What is freeganism?
Freeganism is a portmanteau word made up of the words “free” and “veganism”. As you may already know, vegans reject animal abuse. They avoid consuming products which are derived from, or have been tested on, animals.
Meanwhile, freegans choose an alternative lifestyle which limits their participation in the conventional economy. Where possible, they avoid buying things in favour of recovering food from other sources.
The basis for this anticonsumerist ideology is that primary needs such as eating, sleeping or having a place to live should be freely available to all. Freeganism’s ethics also extend to environmental values linked to responsibility and sustainability.
A person may become freegan due to their personal convictions, or by necessity. In any case, the practice opposes overconsumption by recovering food surplus from households and businesses, from trash cans, dumpsters and other waste receptacles.
Freeganism is often associated with “dumpster diving”, a practice which basically means searching through dumpsters, containers and waste storage locations to find food which is still suitable to eat. Those who do it consider the health risk to be low and some even say it boosts the immune system. Depending on the type of food, and the place where it is recovered, the risk is acceptable.
If it’s in a public location, there’s no legal problem at all as waste is considered as not belonging to anyone. Therefore it can in theory belong to anyone and everyone.
However, some food chains take a negative view towards freeganism for fear of getting a bad reputation or on management orders. Some supermarkets destroy their waste on-site or spray bleach on it to combat freeganism. Recovering food can therefore sometimes be problematic.
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2/13/2020 • 4 minutes, 51 seconds
What is carbon footprint?
What is carbon footprint?
A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted by the energy and raw material consumption of a person, organisation or event. It is measured in the volume of CO2 emitted.
Per capita emissions in the USA are estimated at around 16 tons per year. That includes CO2 produced directly by an individual’s household, and emissions created by products they consume. The rough split is 70/30 between the two.
Carbon footprint is measured based on an index called global warming potential. It’s defined by scientists at the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and allows researchers around the world to base their work on the same frame of reference.
Calculating carbon footprint allows us to understand the impact of a product, service or organisation on the planet. The higher the figure, the worse the impact is and the greater the need to reduce it. It’s mainly down to this that the index has become more popular across the world.
Carbon offset schemes allow individuals and companies to invest in environmental projects to counter their own carbon footprint. For example, a household which invests in a reforestation program which reduces carbon emissions by 16 tons, would have offset its entire carbon footprint for a year.
In 2019, the UN announced that over 60 countries have committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2050. That requires reducing emissions through a range of measures.
The carbon footprint index does however have some limits. It doesn’t take into account waste production, water pollution, land pollution or the depletion of natural resources for example. It’s certainly a useful indicator, but there are other measures for environmental impact which are more far-ranging.
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2/12/2020 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
What is zetetic?
What is zetetic?
Zetetic is the practice of giving a scientific explanation to apparently paranormal activity. In other words, zetetic is the art of skepticism and doubt, a tool for critical thinking, which researchers and popularizers use to bring reason into public debates.
The word zetetic comes from the Greek “zetein”, which means to look for. Humans have an inherent need to look for reasons and explanations about the world they live in. However, the human brain is not always smart enough to uncover the truth. Our perceptions and intuitions are often incorrect, which is what we know as cognitive bias. This is where zetetic has an important role to play. It’s a tool that can be used by any individual trying to understand and describe reality.
As far back as the ancient Greek era, Plato was lecturing about Socratic questioning, which looked to identify contradictions in a line of reasoning. But zetetic in the modern term isn’t simply about philosophical posturing. Rather, it’s a tool for critical thinking. Use of the term grew first among American researchers in the 1970s, then in France, where it was given a framework by professor Henri Broch. He defined zetetic as a “method of scientific investigation into so-called paranormal events.”
Broch wrote a lot about paranormal activity and pseudosciences, theories which are often disguised as science. We’re talking about astrology, homeopathy, UFOs and other myths. Broch oversaw the International Zetetic Challenge, which offered a large cash prize to anyone who could scientifically prove paranormal activity.
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2/10/2020 • 3 minutes, 51 seconds
What is biomass?
What is biomass?
Biomass is organic matter, mainly coming from plants or animals, used for energy production. European governments consider biomass to be the world’s main source of renewable energy. But some NGOs have refused to agree that biomass is green energy.
Biomass may sound like the latest futuristic invention that biological engineers have come up with. But really, humans have been using biomass since the prehistoric ages, for example burning wood to cook food or heat homes. It’s only in recent decades that industrialised countries abandoned biomass energy in favour of fossil fuels. The problem is that current consumption rates would see us run out of petrol in 50 years. In 100 years, we could also run out of gas, carbon and uranium. So, governments have started taking an interest in biomass again.
The burning of wood accounts for a portion of biomass energy and it is encouraged in several countries. But biomass energy can also come from biogas, the mixture of gases produced by the breakdown of organic matter, mainly from our waste. Biomass centers have been created to collect methane from fermentation in order to produce steam and electricity.
The Energy Information Administration reported that biomass fuels provided about 5% of total primary energy use in the United States for the year 2017. Those figures should increase as researchers are investing heavily in ways to use biomass for more fuel.
The United Nations do indeed believe that biomass is a renewable energy source. However, there are debates about its use, as it is not necessarily totally clean. For example, burning wood is still one of the main sources of fine particle pollution.
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2/8/2020 • 4 minutes, 8 seconds
What is cyberbullying?
What is cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is the practice of repeatedly insulting or threatening a person online. Anyone can become a victim of cyberbullying, but it does tend to be children and teenagers who are most often subjected to it. In the worst cases, it can have serious consequences, with a number of suicides attributed to cyberbullying in recent years.
For some kids, school has always been synonymous with harassment, often for simply being different. For example, they could be targeted due to their religion, gender identity, nationality, or disability. So when the school bell rang to mark the end of the school day, kids could at least find peace at home.
The problem for victims is that since the 2000s and the advent of social media, harassment is no longer limited to the playground. Everybody is online all the time, whether it be on Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter or Facebook.
Cyberbullying can take the form of creating fake profiles, spreading rumors, sending insulting messages, or sharing photos in private and public groups. In the digital age, a message can reach thousands of people within a matter of seconds.
The social and psychological consequences of cyberbullying are potentially terrible. The self-esteem of young victims can take a real hit, with several high-profile cases of suicide. In 2012, Amanda Todd was just 17 years old when she ended her life. Shortly before committing suicide, the Canadian published a Youtube video explaining how she had been a victim of bullying for years. Todd used post its to explain just what a horrible impact the ordeal had had on her life.
NGO Ditch the Label published a report claiming one in 10 bullying victims ends up attempting suicide.
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2/6/2020 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
What is juice jacking?
What is juice jacking?
Juice jacking is a type of cyber attack which involves hacking a smartphone or tablet through a public USB charging point. Imagine, it’s the middle of a fine day, the sun is shining and you’re looking forward to a spot of lunch. All of a sudden, shock horror your smartphone shows 3% battery.
Disaster, totally ruins your day right?! How are you going to find your way around, reply to emails, meet up with friends in the evening?
Fear not, technology has a solution for everything. Just find a charging point to connect your cell phone via USB. ambiance gare These are more and more common in public places like stations, malls, restaurants and public transport.
Well, it might not actually be the best idea to connect to the first USB port you come across. In November 2019, the LA district attorney actually warned travelers against using public charging points, saying they “may contain dangerous malware”.
Hackers are known for being resourceful people; they use a few different techniques to hack cell phones. Some install malware directly in the charging point. Others have developed clone charging points, which infect devices wih viruses, or steal personal data like bank details, emails and photos.
Juice jacking is not totally new. As far back as 2011, the Defcon hacker convention was trying to raise public awareness of this kind of cyber attack. Event organisers set up informational juice jacking kiosks, which displayed warnings any time a visitor plugged their device into the charging point. The first such kiosk changed its display from “Free charging station” to “You should not trust public charging stations with your devices”. In 2012 the NSA issued a warning to its employees about juice jacking. But the general public is relatively unaware of the risks of USB charging points.
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2/3/2020 • 3 minutes, 36 seconds
What is pinkwashing?
What is pinkwashing?
Pinkwashing is a practice used to appear LGBT-friendly for political or business gains. The choice of such a strategy by states and companies is motivated by a desire to have a modern, progressive image. Whereas in reality they are sometimes hiding practices that aren’t at all respectful towards sexual minorities.
The term pinkwashing was created in the early 2000s to critique companies taking advantage of breast cancer campaigns to improve their image. Soon, use of the term spread to also apply to communications strategies by brands or institutions wanting to appear gay-friendly.
One of the most flagrant and criticised examples of pinkwashing came from the Israeli government. It launched a “Brand Israel” campaign to paint the country as being modern and relevant. The Tel Aviv tourism board even invested $90 million in branding itself as an “international gay vacation destination”. Brands are also turning to pinkwashing more and more.
Many would see it as a good thing if institutions want to be inclusive to LGBTQ people, rather than rejecting them. But students and associations are critical of the supposed double standards behind pinkwashing. For example, homophobic attitudes are prominent in Israel outside of Tel Aviv. As explained by professor Sarah Schulman writing in the New York Times, many believe the pinkwashing campaign is just a smokescreen. They claim the aim is to manipulate the country’s international image, and conceal human rights violations in neighbouring Palestine.
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2/1/2020 • 3 minutes, 50 seconds
What is phage therapy?
What is phage therapy?
Phage therapy refers to the use of bacteriophages to treat bacterial infections. While it has been used scarcely in the Western world in recent decades, some doctors and researchers see a need for it in the future, to combat antibiotic resistance among bacteria.
In 1917, French-Canadian microbiologist Félix d’Hérellee discovered phage therapy. Bacteriophages, or phages for short, are actually viruses which are extremely common in the biosphere. They’re able to kill bacteria by invading them and multiplying within them.
Phage therapy can be used to treat basic wounds, as well as different kinds of bacterial infection, like bone infection, respiratory infections and MRSA. Instead of using antibiotics, which destroy all bacteria they come across, specific strains or cocktails of phages are used for each patient.
At the time antibiotics were created, public authorities considered them more simple and effective than phages. To such an extent that phages were gradually forgotten and even destroyed in many countries.
But in the 21st century, certain bacteria have become resistant to antibiotics, which is a major health issue. Researchers have renewed their interest in phages and are looking at their potential uses to fight otherwise incurable diseases.
Some countries actually already use phage therapy, most notably in Georgia. Sick patients from around the world are spending thousands of dollars to travel to Tblisi, the country’s capital. They then spend several weeks undergoing treatment at the Eliava Institute.
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1/30/2020 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
What is Generation Z?
What is Generation Z?
The term Generation Z refers to people born from around the end of the 1990s onwards. Like all generations, the group has its own supposed defining characteristics. Members of Generation Z are often labelled as hyper-digital, super idealist and even depressed. But what’s the scientific basis for all of this?
The term Generation Z originated in 2012 from an online contest organised by the daily newspaper USA Today. OK, so it’s not the most original name, with Generation Z following on directly from Generation Y, also known as the millennials. They in turn followed on from Generation X.
When people first started talking about Generation Z, some saw 1995 as a would-be cut-off date. Others preferred to go with the year 2000. In the end, the Pew Research Center, an American think tank, came up with 1st January 1997 as a start date.
Of course, the date is somewhat arbitrary. Researchers justify the date saying people born from then on have a different perception of the world. For example, they don’t have any memory of 9/11, but have always lived in a world that’s afraid of terrorism. They didn’t witness the creation of new technologies first-hand, but use electronic devices from an early age.
According to The Economist, members of Generation Z are more educated, open-minded and militant, but also more stressed than preceding generations. Above all, they are generally criticised when arriving in the workplace. Too mollycoddled, oversensitive, smartphone-dependent, asocial, unaccepting of a hierarchy. In other words, a headache for a lot of companies. But along with that comes opportunities too. Generation Z are also the next big group of consumers. So it’s better for companies to learn to understand them!
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1/27/2020 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
What is foie gras?
What is foie gras?
Foie gras is a French delicacy often eating during the holiday season. The words foie gras literally translate to “fatty liver”, due to the way it is made. Ducks and geese are deliberately fattened for several days in order to produce foie gras. Animal rights groups are strongly in favour of banning foie gras production, a step which has been taken in several countries.
The fattening process is known as “gavage”, and has its roots in ancient Egypt, where similar techniques were used to fatten animals. Foie gras spread to ancient Greece and Rome. Over time, Jews migrating to western and central Europe brought the tradition with them. Foie gras gradually became part of French cultural heritage, a status which is even protected by law. In the 1980s, production became industrialized and it became more and more popular among families at Christmas time.
Nowadays, geese and mulard ducks are used to produce foie gras. The animals are force-fed large quantities of corn for around 12 days and then slaughtered. The fattening process is carried out by inserting a 10-inch tube into the birds’ throats. Their livers accumulate so much fat, they swell up to several times their normal size. This condition is a disease known as hepatic steatosis.
Every year, animal rights groups around the world criticise foie gras producers. They cite findings from researchers which show that the force-feeding process is unnecessarily harmful. Organs surrounding the liver are often squashed, while the animals often also suffer from fatigue and diarrhoea.
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1/25/2020 • 4 minutes, 16 seconds
What is gamification in the workplace?
What is gamification in the workplace?
Human beings love playing games. They stimulate our hormones, our brains and our emotions. Now, games wouldn’t necessarily be the first thing you’d associate with your job. But some managers are using gamification to help their employees feel more satisfied at work. In turn, they are often more efficient.
So gamification in the workplace means using games to motivate or train employees. The idea is in fact not totally new. In 1920s Soviet Russia, engineers would organise competitions between workers in order to improve their productivity and cultural level. In the 80s and 90s, when fulfilment at work became a hot topic in society, gamification really took off.
It’s now common to see workplaces with foosball tables and slides, as companies aim to instill a sense of fun in the environment. The term gamification comes from the word “game”, meaning game elements or principles are used in a non-game context. After all, games are structured by rules, which are part and parcel of worklife.
Amazon are one example of an American company using gamification in their warehouses. Screens are installed next to workers’ stations, displaying video games. Every time a worker retrieves or stores a product, that physical action is translated into a virtual action on the screen. For example, it could be a car progressing around a virtual track. Workers can win badges and prizes by having high productivity levels.
Clearly, gamification is intended to make tasks less tedious, in order to create a greater tempo and better mood in the work environment. And it appears that productivity is generally improved as a result. With video games all the rage among younger generations, could gamification in the workplace have a bright future ahead?
Some purists think mixing work and play takes away too much of the traditional pleasure element. In the age of gamification at work, the game is no longer simply played for its own sake, but for financial reasons. It can even be seen as manipulation, because the true purpose of the game is somewhat hidden.
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1/23/2020 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
What is the keto diet?
What is the keto diet?
The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carb diet which allegedly helps weight loss and fighting diseases such as diabetes, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s and cancer. This diet is growing in popularity, but not without its risks.
The keto diet was invented in the United States in 1920 to combat certain forms of epilepsy in children. Other treatments came along, pushing it to the background until interest picked up again. You can find dozens of books and Youtube videos on the subject.
The idea is simple enough. Fats, proteins and carbohydrates are the macronutrients that make up the major part of our diets. With the keto diet, you drastically reduce the amount of one of those three groups. Carbs are more or less banned. To make up for that, you consume fats in larger quantities, as much as 90% of your daily energy intake. So say goodbye to cakes, cereals and bananas; hello to butter, meat, avocado and vegetable oils.
The keto diet works like this. The lack of carbohydrates makes your liver work, converting fats into fatty acids and ketone bodies. These ketone bodies replace carbs as your body’s main energy source, and your body starts burning fat.
It’s a pretty difficult diet to follow - you really have to be disciplined. But the short term results seem to be there. You can easily lose 5 - 10 pounds in a few weeks. Followers talk about the advantages the diet can have for preventing Alzheimer’s. It can also stop tumors from growing as they basically feed off glucose. However, scientists are adamant that no solid research backs up these claims.
Some nutritionists have pointed to undesirable effects such as nausea, constipation, fatigue and vitamin or mineral deficiency. In the long term, the keto diet could increase your risk of cardiovascular diseases or kidney stones. And don’t even get me started on the excessive animal fats in the diet. They can bring on conditions like fatty liver disease or hypercholesterolemia.
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1/20/2020 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
What is endometriosis?
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition which affects one in ten women. The main symptom is pelvic pain, which can be more intense during menstruation. Although it affects a relatively high proportion of women, the condition is commonly misdiagnosed.
Each month, the womb lining thickens as part of the menstrual cycle. This is to prepare the womb to host a foetus in case of pregnancy. If no fertilization takes place, the lining detaches and is discharged from the body along with blood.
Endometriosis is sometimes described as retrograde menstruation. Instead of leaving the body through the vagina, cells flow in the opposite direction up through the fallopian tubes. It can reach the organs of the pelvis, such as the ovaries, bladder and colon. The cuts and cysts caused can be very painful.
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1/18/2020 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
What are skin-whitening creams?
What are skin-whitening creams?
Believe it or not, the market for skin-whitening creams is rapidly expanding. Many people are using these products to obtain whiter skin, despite health authorities warning about how dangerous they can be.
Skin-whitening creams actually work by removing the surface layers of skin, or reducing the body’s production of melanin, the pigment which gives skin its colour. When their use is prescribed and supervised by a dermatologist, these creams can be useful in treating melasma, a skin condition where brown or grey patches develop on a person’s face.
But these products have now gone way beyond their intended medical use. In 2019, the United Kingdom’s Local Government Association said that skin-whitening creams should be “avoided at all costs”. Nevertheless, it’s estimated this industry will grow to be worth over $25bn by 2024!
The popularity of skin-whitening creams is partly down to a form of discrimination known as colorism. What that means is the lighter a person’s skin, the more privileged they are in society. Fashion and lifestyle magazines generally feature white people much more prominently than those of other ethnic backgrounds. On their covers and pages, white skin is sold as being a standard of beauty. Meanwhile, photographs of models are often retouched to make their skin look lighter. As you can imagine, colorism is leading millions of people to turn to skin whitening products, in order to change their appearance. It’s happening in many parts of the world, from Europe to Africa, to India.
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1/16/2020 • 4 minutes, 6 seconds
What are bed bugs ?
What are bed bugs ?
Bed bugs are insects that feed exclusively on blood. They often live on furniture or bedding and bite humans during the night. Eliminating bed bugs from one’s home can prove to be very difficult. And the problem is getting worse as these modern-day vampires are becoming more and more common across the world.
The most common kind of bed bug is the Cimex Lectularius species. They measure around a quarter of an inch in length, have a flat oval-shaped body and are of a reddish-brown colour. Getting bitten by a bed bug isn’t painful, but the bites can become very itchy.
Bed bugs have been around feeding on human blood since ancient times. They were particularly abundant during World War II, until a potent insecticide called DDT came along. DDT nearly wiped out bed bugs in many countries, but they have made an unwelcome comeback in the 21st century. Bed bugs are back with a vengeance, and have been known to invade entire neighborhoods across the United States and Europe.
Bed bugs have almost certainly become more resistant to pesticides. At the same time, the most potent and dangerous pesticides have gradually been banned. The constant increase in global tourism has also had a role to play in the spread of bed bugs around the world. Bed bugs can just as easily set up home in hotels, hospitals, buses and subway trains. The issue is not just an issue of cleanliness or dirtiness; anyone can be contaminated.
Bed bugs don’t usually cause any significant health problems. But an infestation in your household can quickly become a nightmare. It is extremely difficult to totally get rid of these insects. They lurk inside mattresses, walls and many other places where they are hard to find.
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1/13/2020 • 4 minutes, 4 seconds
What is HAARP ?
What is HAARP ?
The acronym HAARP stands for High Frequency Auroral Research Program. It’s an American research project dedicated to analysing the ionosphere. HAARP is funded by the American armed forces, and has been the target of conspiracy theorists since the 1990s. They believe the program is responsible for natural disasters and mind-controlling radio waves.
The ionmmm osphere is a layer of the Earth’s upper atmosphere, from around 37 miles to 620 miles in altitude. Its characteristics are complex and varied due to solar activity. It is of interest to scientists studying the atmosphere, as well as armed forces, as it plays an important role in radio wave propagation.
So the US army decided to finance the HAARP research program, in order to study the ionosphere, and more specifically the geomagnetic storms which occur inside it. Work on the facility began in 1993 in Alaska. The state was chosen because auroras occur frequently, and because it’s far away from wave interference caused by human activity. Such as electronics and lights for example.
HAARP uses a high-frequency radio transmitter to temporarily excite precise parts of the atmosphere. The transmitter has 180 antennas and a total of 3.6 MW in transmitter power. In total, up to 300 million dollars were invested in the program. But the army decided to abandon it in 2014, as it was becoming too expensive to make equipment meet anti-pollution standards. The University of Alaska then took over the program, as well as all the conspiracy theories that come with it.
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1/11/2020 • 4 minutes, 10 seconds
What is greenwashing ?
What is greenwashing ?
Greenwashing is a marketing practice used by corporations to convince consumers that their business is environmentally friendly. Of course the aim is really to sell more products. Consumers may be convinced they are acting in an environmentally responsible way. While in reality brands are often hiding practices that are not at all helpful to the planet.
The term greenwashing first appeared at the start of the 1990s, around about the time mainstream Western society was becoming more aware of environmental issues. As soon as some kind of trend would appear, advertisers were lying in wait to capitalize. By the 2000s, ads using environmental claims were everywhere.
Greenwashing is often very visually apparent. A product’s packaging might change, or it could be the communication about the product. For example, the colour green is used more; you see more flowers, trees or animals. Sometimes brands are more explicit in boasting about their environmental performance. And in a way that a lot of people would see as being inappropriate.
Their products, whether it be anything from cars to detergents, can turn out to actually be harmful. In those cases, it’s borderline false advertising. In America, the Federal Trade Commission had to update its “Green Guides” in 2012, cracking down on greenwashing. Now brands have started using subtler tactics, making detection more difficult.
Coffee is a perfect example and many authors have criticised this kind of greenwashing.
One of the world’s best known coffee brands has managed to engineer a luxury image for itself, and also sell itself as being environmentally friendly. The reality is totally different however.
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1/10/2020 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
What is FGM ?
What is female genital mutilation ?
Female genital mutilation (or FGM) is an operation whereby some or all of the external female genitalia are removed, for traditional reasons. Procedures vary across the world, but most commonly the clitoris and labia are cut off using a blade. FGM is illegal in many countries, but still common across the world. In 2016, Unicef estimated that at least 200 million women in 30 countries had been subjected to the practice during their lives.
FGM is usually carried out by an older woman, taking on the role of circumciser. The cutting may be done with or without anaesthesia, often using a non-sterile item like a knife, razor, pair of scissors, piece of glass or fingernails. The circumciser partially or completely removes the clitoris, and sometimes the inner labia too. In some cases, the outer labia are sewn closed with the vagina only opened for sexual intercourse when the girl is older.
FGM is most commonly practised in Subsaharan Africa and the Middle East. In countries like Somalia, Guinea and Djibouti, it’s estimated that over 90% of women between the ages of 15-49 have been subjected to FGM. A CDC report in 2016 estimated that over 500,000 women in the United States were either at risk of FGM, or already victims.
FGM has been carried out for thousands of years actually, since well before Islam or Christianity arrived in the regions in question. Some communities defend the practice, saying it preserves women’s virginity, increases sexual pleasure for men and decreases it for women. Other justifications include saying it is a rite of passage for young girls before they become an adult.
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1/9/2020 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
What is sharenting ?
What is sharenting ?
Sharenting is a portmanteau word, made up of “sharing” and “parenting”. It’s used to refer to parents who share photos and videos of their kids on social media. Harmless, you might think, and the practice is becoming more and more common. However, it’s still an area which requires a level of caution.
It all starts with a Facebook post around the time of the first ultrasound, announcing the pregnancy. In fact, 30% of children already have an online presence before being born. Then come more pictures when the newborn arrives, a video of the first steps or other happy family moments. All this is generally shared on the parents’ private accounts, or even on dedicated accounts created for the children themselves. 90% of kids have an online presence by the age of 2.
It’s true that social media often helps strengthen bonds between loved ones who don’t live together, like long-distance grandparents for example.
However, the dangers of sharenting have become more apparent in the last few years. In 2016, The Atlantic published an article on the subject, raising questions about consent, the right to privacy and parent-child relationships.
There are direct risks, such as identity fraud, when you share personal information like a child’s name and date of birth online. Posting about family days out could potentially put relatives in danger. Pictures of children undressed could even fall into the hands of pedophile networks.
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1/6/2020 • 4 minutes, 12 seconds
What is the No Bra movement ?
What is the No Bra movement ?
For women, wearing a bra to support their breasts may seem vital from puberty onwards. However, it’s claimed that bras may in fact be useless or even dangerous, which has led some to promote the No Bra movement. It has been linked to feminism, and isn’t universally accepted or popular.
Bras were invented at the end of the 19th century, gradually replacing corsets and revolutionising women’s daily lives. Since then, wearing the undergarment has become an automatic reflex and a rite of passage for girls when they start to develop into young women. Designs have evolved a lot over the years, for example the standard model in the 2000s was padded, making breasts look round and high. Going braless in public would be seen a bit like going out with no panties.
t’s been suggested that wearing a bra can weaken the tissue structures known as Cooper’s ligaments, which offer natural support to breasts.
It’s a vicious circle. Women need bras because of wearing bras in the first place!
French professor Jean-Denis Rouillon takes that point of view even further. He believes bras are bad for health, damaging breast tissue but also restricting bloodflow and lymphatic circulation. Some studies have even found links between excessive bra wearing and breast cancer.
Faced with this information, women have created the No Bra movement.
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1/4/2020 • 4 minutes, 17 seconds
What is mental load ?
What is mental load ?
Mental load, or emotional labour, is a sociological concept often relating to the daily management of a household. Research has shown that within traditional families, the strain of mental load is more often than not taken on by women. It’s become a feminist issue due to this imbalance.
Early discussions relating to mental load date back to the 1980s. Sociologists noted how women in heterosexual relationships were often just as busy with managing household tasks or family life, as with their own job. And more so than men, in fact.
In theory, homosexual couples should be less affected by the mental load, due to the gendered nature of the issue. But often one partner ends up taking on more mental load than the other, especially when there are big social differences between the two. That could be a difference in salary between the two partners for example.
The term mental load has become more widespread in recent years, thanks in no small part to French comic strip creator Emma. She compares the traditional family to a small company, where the woman is a project manager in charge of household tasks. The male partner is simply an underling waiting on orders to carry out. The underling justifies his inaction by saying “You should have asked!”
Mental load is a continuous cycle of organising domestic life. Tasks like buying milk, paying utility bills, organizing the kid’s birthday or booking medical appointments always have to be remembered. What’s more, this load by its nature entails invisible additional responsibility. While invisible, it’s definitely stressful and often forces women to make sacrifices when it comes to their social lives.
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1/2/2020 • 4 minutes, 14 seconds
What is lyme disease ?
What is lyme disease ?
Lyme disease is a vector-borne disease, which means it’s spread by an intermediary. It’s actually the most common of all vector-borne diseases in the northern hemisphere.
In the case of lyme disease, the intermediary is an insect called a tick. While ticks are very small, the consequences of the disease are potentially very serious. The number of infections is on the rise and there’s a lot of debate between scientists and patient associations.
Ticks are the largest members of the acarine sub-class of arachnids. They measure around a ¼ of an inch on average. They can mostly be found either on the ground or attached to the skin of mammals. In America, blacklegged ticks are the most common culprit when it comes to spreading Lyme disease. They can bite human beings of all ages.
The most common areas where this happens is in woods, meadows, parks and gardens. If you’re wondering what time of the year is the most dangerous, it’s generally between the start of spring and the end of autumn.
The problem is that the tick population is increasing due to climate change. And therefore so is Lyme disease. Some say that it’s getting diagnosed more efficiently due to greater awareness among doctors and patients.
Only a minority of ticks carry the disease. And the risk of getting it after being bitten is only 1-5%. But you have to keep an eye on how the bite develops. The most common and quick symptom would be red rings around the bite. These generally remain for a few days.
When the disease is diagnosed and treated quickly, the outlook is good. In around 90% of cases, antibiotics are enough to treat it in 2-4 weeks. But if untreated, it’s a different story.
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12/30/2019 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
What is polyamory ?
What is polyamory ?
Polyamory means having romantic or sexual relationships with more than one partner. It differs from the traditional model where two partners have an exclusive relationship and are faithful to one another. However, an important criteria is that all partners involved give their consent to these open relationships.
It’s like swinging?
Not really. Although the lifestyle does include having sex outside of the established couple, swingers tend to avoid any romantic attachment with their non-marital partners. Being polyamorous means you believe in the right to love more than one person and is therefore totally opposite to monogamy.
It’s like polygamy ?
That’s not really true either. Polygamy is by definition linked to the custom of marriage, and married life. Often in cultures where polygamy is practised, only the husband is allowed to marry several partners. An essential feature of polyamorous relationships is that all partners have equal rights.
To understand polyamory, you need to analyse the concept of traditional loving relationships. Partners believe that they belong to one another and accept giving up their respective freedom. Any external relationship is seen as a threat and feelings of jealousy stem from this model.
The thinkers behind polyamory, like Russian revolutionary Alexandra Kollontai, talk about principles such as equality in mutual relationships, the absence of possessiveness, empathy and caring for the well being of others.
Therefore, polyamory doesn’t destroy faithfulness. Rather it reinvents it. Being faithful in a polyamorous relationship requires honesty, attentiveness, trust and trustworthiness.
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12/28/2019 • 3 minutes, 36 seconds
What are loot boxes ?
What are loot boxes ?
Creating video games doesn’t come cheap, and neither does it bring in a whole lot of revenue. At least that’s what game publishers would have you believe. They’re constantly looking for new ways to increase their profits in the long run. Loot boxes are just one example of that. They are virtual items which have been causing a lot of debate in recent years.
The controversy really started when Star Wars Battlefront 2 came out in late 2017. There were a lot of disappointed gamers out there, so much so that they called for a full boycott of the game. Having already purchased the game itself, they realised they would have to spend over $2,000 more to unlock its full content.
The idea behind loot boxes is simple. You buy a virtual box without knowing what’s inside it. You always get some kind of virtual item in return, you just don’t know how much it will be worth.
Gamers are getting fed up with loot boxes. More generally, they’re fed up with the idea of “pay to win”, whereby they are incited to pay in order to have something in the game. Some think loot boxes should be considered a form of gambling and therefore made illegal for minors.
It’s true that young people are twice as likely as adults to become addicted to games of chance. There are many risks, such as psychoactive substance use, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, financial losses or a drop in academic performance.
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12/26/2019 • 3 minutes, 51 seconds
What are GMOs ?
What are GMOs ?
The acronym GMO stands for genetically modified organism. Basically, a GMO is any living thing which has had its genetic material altered by humans.
The term is most commonly used talking about crops which are genetically modified in order to be more resistant to pesticides or to improve food quality. Practically speaking, it does increase yield and prevent pests from damaging crops. Maize and soybean are among the plants most commonly linked with GM crops.
Of course, genetic engineering techniques can also be used on other kinds of organisms, such as yeasts, for example.
The main way of creating GMOs is through gene delivery, whereby foreign DNA material is introduced into host cells. At the end of the process, you get what we call transgenic products.
The debate around GMOs is raging among scientists and the general public. Some cite the benefits they offer, like creating new medicines like insulin, being able to harvest land which had previously been unusable, and helping to reduce world hunger. On the other hand, counter-arguments include warnings against overuse of herbicides, the impact on plant life and wildlife, potential health risks for humans and the increase in production costs for farmers.
In the United States, there is no particular federal legislation relating to GMOs. Instead, GMOs are regulated according to existing legislation on products. This is pretty favourable compared to other countries. The US is actually the world’s leading producer of genetically modified crops. And 75% of processed foods in the country contain GMO ingredients.
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12/23/2019 • 3 minutes, 39 seconds
What are e-cigarettes ?
What are e-cigarettes ?
An e-cigarette is a vaporizer that simulates smoking without tobacco consumption. A product like this could therefore help smokers to quit. The use of electronic cigarettes is on the rise, while tobacco sales are dropping. But before we get carried away about wiping out tobacco, we should remember that e-cigarettes are not totally risk-free.
Smoking an e-cigarette is also known as vaping, as you inhale a vapor instead of cigarette smoke. This lukewarm liquid is made up of water, glycerol, propylene glycol, flavorings and the desired amount of nicotine. As no combustion takes place, e-cigarettes are considered less dangerous than tobacco. For example, the presence of nitrosamines, which are known to be carcinogenic, is reduced by 97% compared to traditional cigarettes.
Invented in the early 2000s, e-cigarettes really took off from 2010 onwards. Smokers are attracted by their lack of smell and lower cost. But especially the lower health risks, due to there being no tar or carbon monoxide in the product. Many doctors advise smokers to try e-cigarettes in order to reduce tobacco consumption or completely stop smoking.
But e-cigarettes have also come in for criticism. With a wide range of models on sale, and some users creating their own vaping liquid, you can easily end up with a bad-quality product. And most vaping liquids continue to contain nicotine, which is one of the most addictive legal substances out there.
There have at least been some studies across the world over the last ten years. A lot of scientists have backed the e-cigarette. Actually, 35% of vapers have successfully quit smoking, so we’re talking about millions of deaths potentially prevented. On the other hand, there has been proof that inhaling vaping liquids can damage immune system cells. Experts have pointed out that flavorings contain chemical substances and ultrafine particles. You’ve got diacetyl for example, which is deemed as toxic when inhaled. You’ve also got the coil that heats the vaping liquid, right. Some devices allegedly give off heavy metals when that happens, like lead, chromium or nickel.
So for a while some health organisations had been recommending e-cigarettes to help quit smoking. But then the World Health Organisation comes along and really throws the cat among the pigeons in July 2019. The WHO basically came out advising against using e-cigarettes, saying they are “undoubtedly harmful”. What’s more, they also warned that the tobacco industry has been misinforming the general public on the subject. In the WHO’s opinion, the use e-cigarettes should be regulated around the world.
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12/21/2019 • 4 minutes, 37 seconds
What is body positivity ?
What is body positivity ?
Body positivity has taken over social media in the last few years. The movement is based on the relationship we have with our bodies, encouraging us to achieve self-acceptance.
The drive took off in 1996 thanks to two American women. Elizabeth Scott, a psychotherapist, was contacted by Connie Sobczak, who was victim to an eating disorder at the time. In honour of her dead sister, Sobczak created the Body Positive movement along with Scott. The organisation encourages individuals to change the world, rather than feeling the need to change their bodies . The two founders continue to offer seminars and other group training sessions to this day.
Body positivity posts can be found all over Instagram, with hashtags alongside photos of people of all body types and morphologies.
Body positivity is first and foremost an ideology, rather than just a collection of photos. The movement helps those with self-image challenges to love their bodies. Getting started is really simple. Stand in front of a mirror and say out loud the things you notice most about your body. Most people mention their supposed flaws before anything positive.
A body positive attitude will help you see these “flaws” as qualities and therefore actually appreciate them. The idea is that you say what you like about yourself and show off your flaws, rather than hiding them. This helps us to feel beautiful and love ourselves. Which in turn allows us to overcome fears and break down taboos.
Check out the story of breast cancer survivor Ericka Hart for example. She became a body positive symbol by posing topless following breast reconstruction surgery. It turned out that prior to the surgery, she hadn’t been able to find a single photo of a black woman having undergone the same procedure.
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12/19/2019 • 4 minutes, 31 seconds
What is begpacking ?
What is begpacking ?
Begpacking is a portmanteau word, combining the words ‘begging’ and ‘backpacking’. It essentially means begging in order to fund a journey, and the practice has come in for criticism from many quarters.
Begpackers are mainly young Westerners travelling around the world, particularly in Asia. Some offer hugs or play music in exchange for money. Others simply sit in the street behind a sign reading “Help us to travel around the world”.
Each begpacker has their own personal situation. Some may be broke, others simply craving further adventures. This somewhat hippy attitude might simply cause a few raised eyebrows in the Western world. But in Asia, it’s really not appreciated by local communities.
In New Zealand, Wellington city councillor Brian Dawson spoke out against begpackers eating in local soup kitchens. Dawson said: “It does annoy me that people think it's a way to get around the country on the cheap...There's a huge difference between doing this for a cheap holiday, knowing that afterwards you can return to another lifestyle."
Begpackers are seen as ignorant when it comes to cultural differences. In Asian countries, begging is a sign of social failure and only justifiable for people in extreme poverty. For a visitor to beg in order to fund their travel is therefore disrespectful to the country’s own population.
Some in South-East Asia take their criticism of the tourism industry even further. They see white tourists as neocolonialists, seeing Asia as an exotic place for their own spiritual awakening.
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12/16/2019 • 4 minutes, 23 seconds
What is accelerationism ?
What is accelerationism ?
Accelerationism is a radical school of thought, seeking to bring about a postcapitalist society. Accelerationists believe that this aim can be achieved by pushing capitalism past its limits, mainly through technological advances.
Contemporary accelerationists include Nick Srnicek and Alex Williams, who created their accelerationist manifesto in 2013. This publication generated a lot of attention and debate in political spheres. In 2015, Srnicek and Williams expanded their manifesto into a monograph entitled “Inventing the Future”.
So what makes this new theory any different from other leftist philosophies?
Accelerationists believe that traditional left-wing parties are going down the wrong path, continuing to advocate increases to the welfare state. They say the economy is not able to sustain such a policy in the long term. Accelerationists also oppose the ideas of the degrowth movement, which is all about downscaling production and consumption. As the name suggests, accelerationism is about accelerating. Accelerating and going faster than capitalism, in order to overtake it.
The theory puts technological advances a t the heart of its political project. We’re talking about artificial intelligence which can limit pollution, robots enabling humans to reduce their time spent working and therefore become emancipated. Technology should therefore not be left in the hands of capitalists, but appropriated and used to increase social justice.
Accelerationists therefore don’t see new technologies as being inherently bad. Big data, algorithms and robots can all be adapted to create a new postcapitalist society.
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