Do you really know?

Why does exercise not help you lose weight?

As summer approaches, a lot of people are hitting the gym with the goal of slimming down. Maybe you’re aiming to shed a few pounds and show off a toned figure at the beach. Naturally, the first reflex is often to hop on a treadmill or lift some weights.  But here’s the thing: while exercise is great for you, it’s not always the most effective way to lose weight. To lose fat, you have to burn more calories than you consume. Simple enough. But in reality, the bulk of your daily calorie burn comes from basic body functions,  things like breathing, pumping blood, regulating temperature, and even thinking. So does exercise burn more calories or not? So is exercise still worth it?In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: ⁠Is it good to have aches and pains after doing sport?⁠ ⁠How can I improve my sporting performance through mental preparation?⁠ ⁠What are the health impacts of taking public transport?⁠ A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First Broadcast: 23/6/2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What’s a Lavender Marriage, and why is it changing relationships ?

For generations, the idea of marrying your first love, living happily ever after, and having lots of kids was considered the ultimate dream. But for Gen Z and younger generations, that vision is shifting. New ways of "making a family" are emerging—like living long-term with friends, co-parenting without being romantically involved, and even entering into a lavender marriage. A lavender marriage is a union between two people for reasons other than love. Typically, it’s a partnership between a heterosexual person and a queer person that allows them to navigate the world within a heteronormative framework. By creating this unconventional family structure, they can enjoy some of the social and economic benefits of traditional marriage without the romantic entanglements. Is there a downside to marrying without love ? How does lavender marriage revolutionize the way we relate to each other? Under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: ⁠How long do I have to wait to swim after eating?⁠ ⁠What is sad nipple syndrome?⁠ ⁠Could Turmeric help indigestion?⁠ A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First Broadcast: 12/3/2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What's the best position for going to the toilet?

The question asked in the title of today’s episode might seem a little strange. After all, we all sit the same way on the toilet, right? Straight up with our knees at a 90-degree angle. But in fact that might not be the best for our digestive system.  Stomach doctors, also known as gastroenterologists, suggest that this position can actually make it harder to go. And that’s not the only reason why you may want to find a better alternative position. The right position can actually help prevent other issues like hemorrhoids or constipation. What better options are there then? And how do you actually squat on a regular toilet? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: How can the AAA method help you in tricky work situations? Is it good to have aches and pains after doing sport? Is it bad to drink water with a meal? A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First Broadcast: 10/2/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 !⁠ To listen to the last episodes, you can click here : ⁠What is the Russian Oil Embargo?⁠ ⁠What is the thyroid?⁠ ⁠What is asthma?⁠ A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First Broadcast: 10/6/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. First Broadcast: 2/8/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. First broadcast 15/12/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. According to a study that followed 70,000 women from 2004 to 2012, those who were optimistic had better health outcomes even for serious illnesses such as: heart disease, stroke, cancer, and respiratory diseases. Other proven benefits of positive thinking include better quality of life, higher energy levels, faster recovery from injury or illness, fewer colds, lower rates of depression, better stress management and coping skills, and longer life span. So how can you train your brain to think positively? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions ! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: How does eldest daughter syndrome affect some women? What is a kakistocracy, in the world of work ? What does vaping do to the body? A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First broadcast: 22/06/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 ! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here : What is sadfishing? What is Jurassic Park? What are carbon bombs? A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First Broadcast: 16/6/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is poverty porn?

What is poverty porn? 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. 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!⁠ To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: ⁠Who is Ousmane Sonko?⁠ ⁠What is Generation Covid?⁠ ⁠What are HFCs?⁠ A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. First Broadcast: 22/10/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Could love echoing be damaging your relationship prospects?

Whether you’re the one being left or the one doing the leaving, a breakup always presents certain challenges. It’s pretty common to try to learn from the relationship that’s ended, in order to move forwards in a positive way. And those takeaways can help us gain perspective and avoid making the same mistakes in the future.  But when that kind of rumination becomes excessive and persists with time, it can become problematic. In late 2024, American psychologist Marie Land came up with the term “love echoing” to describe those kinds of thoughts. Where does the “echo” part of the term come from? What are the possible consequences of love echoing then? 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 the dirtiest objects in your home?⁠ ⁠Why do we get travel sick?⁠ A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First Broadcast: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do pheromones affect our sexuality?

Have you ever seen perfumes advertised as containing pheromones and therefore increasing your sexual attractiveness or libido? Sounds too good to be true, right? According to Healthline.com, pheromones are "chemical substances that are secreted outside of the body in fluids like urine and sweat." The portal explains that they’re produced by a wide range of animals and plants, but that it’s still not known for sure whether they even exist in humans. That hasn’t stopped pheromones from being hyped up though. Some people say they play a role in desire, partner selection, and potentially even reproduction and fertility. Let’s take a moment to discuss whether there’s any substance to such claims. What’s the difference between pheromones and hormones then? Can pheromones trigger specific behaviours or reactions in us? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: ⁠⁠Why is sugar bad for our memory?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Does the law of attraction really work?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠How can I stay trendy buying only second hand clothes?⁠⁠ A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First Broadcast: 26/3/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 : ⁠⁠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. First Broadcast: 18/7/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. First Broadcast: 12/3/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 does eldest daughter syndrome affect some women?⁠ ⁠What is a kakistocracy, in the world of work ?⁠ ⁠What does vaping do to the body?⁠ A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First broadcast: 17/7/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why do noses and ears grow throughout your life?

You may have heard that our ears and noses never stop growing, you may even have found yourself wondering if your ears are indeed bigger than they used to be. But there might be an answer, a study published in the British Medical Journal in 1993 took a very serious look at the question. The scientists measured the earlobes of 206 volunteers aged between 30 and 93. The result: the lobes lengthened by an average of 22 millimetres a year, or 1 cm after 50 years!  Do ears continue to grow throughout life? When does this nose sagging begin? What can you do about it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: ⁠Is it better sleeping with or without a pillow?⁠ ⁠How can I save money on my gas bill?⁠ ⁠How can I influence my dreams?⁠ A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 23/10/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 First Broadcast: 27/9/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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? 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!⁠ To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: ⁠What is poverty porn? ⁠ ⁠What is Stop Asian Hate?⁠ ⁠Who is Ousmane Sonko?⁠ A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First Broadcast: 5/4/2021 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 !⁠ To listen to the last episodes, you can click here : ⁠What are subliminals?⁠ ⁠What is sadfishing?⁠ ⁠What is Jurassic Park?⁠ A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First Broadcast: 17/06/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is 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! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: ⁠Why do some men get ill after they orgasm?⁠ ⁠Is nostalgia good or bad for us?⁠ ⁠How can the unisex condom improve my sex life?⁠ A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First broadcast: 1/7/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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!⁠ To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: ⁠What is woofing?⁠ ⁠What are Yuccies?⁠ ⁠Who is Peng Shuai?⁠ A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First Broadcast: 13/1/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 !⁠ 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. First Broadcast: 4/7/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. First broadcast : 13/05/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why are some people clumsier than others?

Do you consider yourself a clumsy person? For some of us, accidents just seem to happen more often than for others, despite our best efforts to be more attentive and focused. We might drop and smash a glass in the kitchen or bump into things while walking along the street for example; and it can really get frustrating when that kind of thing happens over and over. And in actual fact, it’s not just down to bad luck; there is a reason for why some people are prone to moments of clumsiness than others. Is it down to fatigue or inattention? Is being clumsy really a big deal? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: ⁠⁠Should you really drink hot drinks when it’s hot?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Could insects replace meat?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠How can I stop my plants from dying?⁠⁠ A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First Broadcast: 5/7/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 last episodes, you can click here: ⁠⁠What are the health impacts of taking public transport?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Does true crime help us fall asleep?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠What is goblin mode?⁠⁠ A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First broadcast: 22/10/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. First Broadcast: 28/12/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. First Broadcast: 24/3/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: ⁠What is astropsychology?⁠ ⁠What is a Saturn return in astrology?⁠ ⁠Why has astrology come back into fashion?⁠ A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First broadcast: 1/3/2022. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why do some stroke victims wake up with a foreign accent?

The idea might seem like something out of a fantasy, but “Foreign Accent Syndrome” is a genuine, albeit very rare, neurological condition! It sees a person begin to speak with an accent different to the one they had prior to having a stroke; one which makes them sound like they come from an entirely different country! Since the first case was discovered in France in 1907, there have only been about 100 documented cases worldwide, according to the Cleveland Clinic. But certain cases have attracted the attention of the media and scientific researchers alike. One dates back to 1941 in Oslo, Norway, during a period of German occupation.  What is the foreign accent syndrom? What exactly happens in the brain in such cases? How serious can the syndrome be? 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 the strangest reactions caused by an orgasm?⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠How can I learn 1000 words in a new language?⁠⁠⁠ A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 10/1/2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is Stan Culture ?

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. First Broadcast: 20/12/2020 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices