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Modern life moves fast—work, responsibilities, and that endless to-do list. It often feels like there's no time for what truly matters. Relationships get sidelined, calls get postponed… and before we know it, staying connected becomes a real challenge. But here's the thing: sometimes, just a few minutes is all it takes to maintain those vital connections. In fact, some experts say the perfect call with a loved one lasts just 8 minutes. Where does the 8-minute idea come from? How can you make this work in your life? 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 Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast: 11/5/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast: 6/4/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
According to a World Bank report from March 2023, the global pace of reforms toward equal treatment of women under the law has slumped to a 20-year low. This decline constitutes a potential impediment to economic growth at a critical time for the global economy. Since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021, women's rights have been systematically curtailed. From March 2022, it became the only country in the world where women have no access to secondary school or university. Similarly, to promote their vision of virtue, gymnasiums have been closed. A number of NGOs have repeatedly alerted international institutions to the fact that women can no longer work with them because of non-compliance with the country's compulsory dress code. Is the problem the same in the West? How can we combat the decline in women's rights in Europe? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Why has purple become the colour of feminism? Why do some people say slum tourism a bad thing? How should I organise my fridge? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 7/3/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You may have heard of AI art generators, tools that use artificial intelligence to create images based on language prompts. For example, you can type “a picture of Elmo from Sesame Street in the style of Pablo Picasso”. These tools are fun and impressive, but they also pose a serious threat to artists who share their work online. AI art generators rely on large datasets of existing images to learn how to produce new ones. These datasets are often scraped from the internet, without the consent or knowledge of the original artists. What can you do to protect your art from AI exploitation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: How can I stop being a people pleaser? Does our personality change when we speak in another language? How can I best preserve food in my freezer ? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First broadcast : 6/2/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today, “left” and “right” are the main labels we use to categorise political views, but their origins go back over two centuries. To understand, we have to go back to the French Revolution in 1789. That spring, France's King Louis XVI convened a meeting known as the Estates General, bringing together representatives from three groups, or “Estates”: the clergy, the nobility, and the Third Estate, which represented the common people. A few months later, in July, this assembly became the Constituent Assembly. Where did it all begin? Are there other kinds of political oppositions besides left and right? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What is the European Political Community, the continent's intergovernmental organization? Who are the Moonies, the church with ties to Japanese politicians? Which swing states could decide the US election result? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For many, slipping into socks before bed is as natural as brushing their teeth. It's comforting, like a warm hug for your feet. But not everyone's a fan—some can't stand the thought of socks at night. Preferences aside, there's more to this bedtime debate than comfort. So, is snoozing in socks a secret health hack? But does it really help you drift off quicker? Sounds a bit contradictory, right? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: How did broccoli freckles become a beauty trend? Could SMART goals help you reduce stress? Why do men often wake up with an erection? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First broadcast: 2/5/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We all know the classic tale: a man from humble beginnings works tirelessly, overcomes adversity, and rises to the top. It's the famous myth of the self-made man, but where did it come from? Today, this narrative is everywhere. Many of the world's top executives cultivate the image that they built their empires from the ground up. Even the 47th President of the United States leans into this myth. Do many top CEOs maintain this myth? What about Elon Musk end Donald Trump ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What is the Cannes Film Festival ? Why do we tend to hate the sound of our own voice? Can this budgeting method help us save better? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The French famously love their delicious baguette and a staggering 320 of them produced every second in France! But Brits, Americans, and people all over the world consume bread be it a baguette, bagel or a bap on a daily basis. Bread, particularly white bread made from refined grains, is often considered unhealthy due to its high glycemic index, which can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. This can be a concern for weight management and those with diabetes. Why is bread considered unhealthy? Which bread should you choose 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's the happiest country in the world? Why are young people going back to flip phones? What are the strangest reactions caused by an orgasm? Production : Bababam A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Every January, many of us set ambitious resolutions for the year ahead. We jot down our aspirations, fueled by goodwill, and promise ourselves that this time, we won't give up after just a month. But somehow, as the year unfolds, our motivation wanes, and those once-clear goals seem increasingly elusive. If you're tired of this cycle, it might be time to consider a fresh approach: the twelve-week method. Imagine achieving all your goals within just three months. Sounds challenging, right? But fear not! The Twelve-Week Method, also known as the “Twelve-Week Year,” emerged from a personal development book published in 2013 by American entrepreneurs Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington. Drawing on their experience as managers in major international companies, they designed this method to boost productivity while preventing burnout during periods of low motivation. What is the 12 week method? Why Twelve Weeks? So what is the Solution? So how do you go about it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Is taking milk with coffee good for you? What benefits can we get from journaling? Which foods and drinks stain teeth? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 23/4/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the days of yore, clothes were scrubbed with soap, brushes, and sheer elbow grease. But today, laundry detergents have revolutionized the way we clean our garments. These modern marvels remove stains without requiring Herculean effort. But navigating the overwhelming array of choices in the detergent aisle can be overwhelming. The French consumer magazine 60 millions de consommateurs carried out an extensive study in February 2020 to answer just this question. They scrutinized 25 different washing powder brands. Their evaluation criteria included chemical risk, environmental impact, health considerations, washing efficiency, and color preservation. There's so much choice how do you sort through it all? What were the results? Should you make your own washing to avoid chemicals? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What threat does the Year 2038 problem pose to our computers? Which foods shouldn't be eaten together? What is social jet lag? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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! 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. First Broadcast: 23/2/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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
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. First Broadcast: 26/10/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First broadcast: 3/10/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Most of us have that pile of clothes in limbo—not quite dirty, not quite clean. But do we actually need to wash our clothes as often as we do? The answer might surprise you. A rise in laundry loads in the UK has led to more water usage, higher energy bills, and more microplastic pollution. Synthetic fabrics, in particular, shed microfibres during washes. But experts say we could cut down—jeans, for example, don't need a wash until 15 to 30 wears, and wool jumpers? Up to 15 wears. Meanwhile, underwear and socks still need a wash after every use (no surprises there!). So how can you keep clothes fresh between washes? And does washing less really make a difference? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, you can click here: How can you clean your hair without using shampoo? What is climate shadow, the newest way to measure your impact on global warming? Why do our tastes change as we get older? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast: 19/9/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First broadcast 2023-03-28 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Whether they're soft-boiled, fried, poached, or whipped into cakes and pies, eggs are a kitchen favorite for good reason. In the UK the average person consumes about 175 eggs per year, that's about 3 eggs weekly. They are packed with vitamins D, E, A, and B12, plus minerals like iron, zinc, and magnesium, making eggs a healthy choice. They're also brimming with essential fatty acids—omega 3, 6, and 9—to support brain function and the immune system. But that's not all: eggs are protein-rich, rivaling meat and fish. In fact two eggs equate to a modest 100-gram steak, and our bodies love these proteins, especially the 8 essential amino acids they provide. Why are eggs good for you? But what about cholesterol? Do eggs contribute to weight gain? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: How is micro-feminism helping women combat workplace sexism? Is a white tongue unhealthy? What is the great unretirement? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 28/5/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Our brain, much like our muscles, benefits from its own form of exercise. Through dedicated training and stimulation, we can enhance our cognitive abilities, a testament to the remarkable phenomenon known as ‘neural plasticity'. Neural plasticity is the brain's remarkable ability to adapt and reorganise itself. According to the Foundation for Brain Research, when we encounter a new concept, our brain responds by forging fresh neural connections. With consistent practice, these connections grow stronger and more efficient, leading to improved performance. What is Neural Plasticity? Can Intelligence Be Enhanced? What role does a healthy lifestyle play? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Can you train your brain like a muscle? How often should you wash your jeans? Should I walk 10000 steps a day? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 6/6/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In January 2024, the renowned French perfumery Guerlain is set to unveil a groundbreaking range of products inspired by quantum physics. Their marketing promises a revolutionary approach to skincare, stating: "After 20 years' research, Guerlain has created Orchidée Impériale Gold Nobile, revealing a new cosmetic rejuvenation pathway for skin, born of quantum science.". In layman's terms, Guerlain claims to have unlocked the secret to anti-aging with its new quantum cream. However, the scientific community has raised concerns about the misuse of scientific terminology How widespread is this phenomenon? So, what exactly is quantum medicine? Why is quantum physics part of this conversation? 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 Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 4/7/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 wellness syndrome? Is scratching a mole really dangerous? Is bikini waxing harmful for your health? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First broadcast: 27/7/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We're surrounded by screens all day, right up until we go to bed. Our lives are intertwined with technology, from the smartphone alarms that wake us to the late-night emails we check. An Ifop study from April 2021 revealed a startling figure: 69% of those scrolling in bed battle with sleep disorders. And while we might think that a quick video or message thread could usher us into dreamland, the reality is, these habits impact both how quickly we fall asleep and the quality of our rest. You might have heard about the notorious blue light emitted by screens. It's like an unwanted alarm for our bodies, tricking our brains into thinking it's still daytime and halting the production of melatonin, our natural sleep-inducing hormone. But it's not just about the light; a UK study by the University of Oxford from 2016 found that smartphone addiction is linked to poor sleep, regardless of how long we're glued to the screens. In what ways do screens interfere with our sleep? Are there other consequences of dozing off to digital content? What's the secret to a good night's sleep in the screen-saturated world? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: How can social media exposure lead to vicarious trauma? What is binge eating disorder? How can I beat a hangover? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 25/6/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Picture this: you're lost in thought, your favourite song playing, and suddenly, you feel a wave of well-being that gives you goosebumps. Music doesn't just touch our hearts; it has a tangible impact on our bodies. Certain musical passages can send shivers down our spines by releasing dopamine, the so-called pleasure molecule. In 2020, a french study found that listening to music causes variations in low-frequency electrical signals in our brains. How do we know this? What exactly causes these shivers? What about those goosebumps we get from unpleasant sounds? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Is it a good idea to fall asleep to music? Am I listening to music too loud? Does sex help us to sleep better? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Walking is something we all do every day, but did you know it has numerous health benefits? It's not just a simple way to get from point A to point B; walking can improve cardiovascular health, boost your mood, and even enhance your overall well-being. According to specialists, it can also help you lose weight under certain conditions. By incorporating regular, brisk walks into your routine, you can take advantage of these benefits and work towards your weight loss goals. First, you need to walk enough. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends at least 10,000 steps a day to stay fit and maintain a stable weight. But if your goal is to lose weight, you'll need to walk more and at a higher intensity. To really shed those pounds, aim to walk at least three times a week for an hour or more at a brisk pace (between 6 and 8 km/h) and maintain a heart rate between 135 and 160 beats per minute. So, what are those conditions? Is that enough to lose weight? Is one type of walking more effective than another? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What is the 10-10-10 method for dealing with everyday worries? Why has astrology come back into fashion? What are the most addictive foods? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast : 4/9/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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
Let's face it, life throws curveballs at us—being stuck in traffic, a demanding boss, or even chores piling up at home. Anger is a natural response, but unchecked, it can wreak havoc on our personal and professional lives. Slow down and above all breathe! Breathing is crucial for getting rid of anger. By fully oxygenating the brain, it switches from a fight or flight reaction to immediate relaxation. As LeKisha Edwards Alesii, a chartered psychologist and owner of the Durham Health and Emotional Wellbeing Centre in the United States, explains in the pages of the Huffington Post: What can you do to calm down when you feel anger bubbling up? What's the second tip? Any last words of advice? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Why are famous women being targeted by transvestigations? What is premium mediocre - the illusion of luxury? Is your employer tracking you while you work from home? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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: Is there really such a thing as love at first sight? Which foods can hurt your libido? How do I know if I sleepwalk? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. In partnership with upday UK. First broadcast: 14/02/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast: 21/6/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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
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. First broadcast: 1/8/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You might or might not be surprised to learn that warm weather naturally enhances the libido. According to a 2022 survey by the Kinsey Institute, 60% of Americans report that spring is the season when they most want to get under the duvet with their partner. It all comes down to hormones. Light and warmth naturally stimulates our serotonin production, a mood-enhancing chemical. Additionally, it also increases testosterone production, a key player in libido. Light also activates the pineal gland, which regulates our sleep-wake cycles, further improving our mood. As a result, we become more pleasant and engaged in our relationships with others. Why is this? So how do you boost your libido when the weather is not good? What's the second tip? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What is the 10-10-10 method for dealing with everyday worries? Why has astrology come back into fashion? What are the most addictive foods? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 12/8/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast the 25/03/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. 1st broadcast : 20/4/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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
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 : Which jobs are most under threat from artificial intelligence? What is wellness syndrome? Does your name really affect your looks? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First broadcast: 20/07/2023. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With the rise of dating apps, it seems more common to have sex without being in love. Sex for sex's sake, promises to be mindless and commitment-free. In short: pleasure without the risk of pain, but this might not be the whole story. Experts suggest that this trend reflects a deeper change in society. The separation of sex from love and emotional attachment is part of a broader societal shift towards consumerism and individual pleasure. Why are people tempted by a quick fling? Is it even possible to detach your body from your feelings? So, by cutting ourselves off from feelings, do we deprive ourselves of some of the pleasure? Should we be wary of this kind of behavior? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: How can you revitalise your relationship with 3 expert sex tips? Why do we get the post-sex blues? Does sex help us to sleep better? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 9/10/24 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You have surely felt butterflies in your stomach before a big event or had a ‘gut' feeling about something. You might even say you need to ‘digest' some big news. Our stomach is sometimes dubbed the ‘second brain' and it's more than just a metaphor. The term gained traction in the West in 1999, thanks to Dr. Michael Gershon's book “The Second Brain.” However, the concept isn't new. Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient Indian healing system, has recognized the gut-brain connection for thousands of years. In Ayurveda, the digestive system and the mind are intertwined; a disturbance in one affects the other. This link is embodied in the concept of Agni, or ‘digestive fire,' which pertains to both physical digestion and the processing of emotions and thoughts. Nourishing our Agni with the right foods can make us feel better, both physically and mentally. Where did this idea originate? Is there scientific backing for this brain-gut connection? Can taking care of our gut improve our mental well-being? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Is taking milk with coffee good for you? What benefits can we get from journaling? Which foods and drinks stain teeth? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 25/4/24 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Many of us have a ritual of falling asleep to our favorite tunes or a comforting podcast. It's no surprise we find solace in this routine; after all, music is known to dial down blood pressure and heart rate, ease anxiety, and reduce cortisol levels. The benefits don't stop there – music can also boost oxytocin production and sweep away those pesky negative thoughts, setting the stage for a peaceful night's rest. For those battling chronic pain, melodies can be a balm, offering a more tranquil slumber thanks to music's proven pain-dulling powers. In fact, the innovative Music Care app, developed by Dr. Stéphane Guétin, even lets healthcare providers prescribe tunes as a form of pain management. What's the best soundtrack for slumber? Does a musical bedtime routine make a difference? Are there any potential pitfalls to this melodic method? And what about falling asleep with the TV on? 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 addicted to sex? What is King Charles' role in the Church of England? Where does our phobia of clowns come from? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 9/5/24 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Intermittent fasting (IF) isn't just a diet; it's a pattern of eating. It's not about what you eat, but when. The idea is simple: you cycle between periods of eating and fasting. Popular methods include the 16/8 method, this involves fasting for 16 hours each day and eating all meals within an 8-hour window. On the 5:2 diet you eat normally for 5 days of the week and restricting calories to about 500–600 on the other 2 days. Finally, there is the Eat-Stop-Eat method that involves a 24-hour fast once or twice a week. What are the benefits of skipping meals ? What are the disadvantages ? How can you make it work for you ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What is the living dead syndrome? How to make the most out of hybrid working? Does sex help us to sleep better? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First broadcast 21/03/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Imagine being drunk, without having drunk a single drop of alcohol, it seems completely implausible, and yet for some is a reality. South-West media shared the story of a motorist who appeared in court in Bruges in 2022 after being found to have too much alcohol in his blood twice in the same year. The man, in his forties, was eventually acquitted, proving that the tests were not the result of a night of drinking, but rather of auto-brewery syndrome. Self-brewing syndrome, also known as intestinal fermentation syndrome, is when your body turns into a mini-brewery. Professor Alvarez, co-author of an analysis published on the subject in December 2020. says it's when carbs ferment into ethanol right inside your gut, thanks to yeast. Normally, our gut yeast can't brew enough booze to affect us. But for those with auto-brewery syndrome, it's a different story. They've got an overabundance of yeast, and when too much sugar is consumed, it ferments into alcohol, leading to drunkenness. What is it? And what are the consequences? Can it be treated? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: How are LGBTQIA+ people getting on at work? Why is June Pride Month? Where does the LGBT rainbow flag come from ? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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: Could hot rodent men be the new male ideal? Why are mini animals so popular? Why does walking through doorways make us forget things? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Our brain, much like our muscles, benefits from its own form of exercise. Through dedicated training and stimulation, we can enhance our cognitive abilities, a testament to the remarkable phenomenon known as ‘neural plasticity'. Neural plasticity is the brain's remarkable ability to adapt and reorganise itself. According to the Foundation for Brain Research, when we encounter a new concept, our brain responds by forging fresh neural connections. With consistent practice, these connections grow stronger and more efficient, leading to improved performance. What is Neural Plasticity? Can Intelligence Be Enhanced? What role does a healthy lifestyle play? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Can you train your brain like a muscle? How often should you wash your jeans? Should I walk 10000 steps a day? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 6/6/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First broadcast 30/11/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The pursuit of restful sleep is a common goal, especially considering that around one-third of people in the UK experience sleep disorders such as insomnia or even orthosomnia, an obsession with achieving perfect sleep (to find out more about this listen to our episode all about it.) To combat this people try all sorts of methods from meditation to counting sheep, one new approach is the 10-3-2-1-0 method. Developed in 2016 by Canadian personal development coach Craig Ballentyne, this method uses a simple countdown to prepare your body for sleep. What is the this method? What does these numbers mean? Does it actually work? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here : Why do our bodies need to sleep? How do I know if I sleepwalk? Why do my eyelids twitch when I'm tired? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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: Why is my circadian rhythm so important? Is it a bad idea to fall asleep in front of screens? How can social media exposure lead to vicarious trauma? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 27/8/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First broadcast: 28/2/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Everyone has lied at least once in their life. But did you know that we lie at least once a day? This surprising conclusion comes from an American study published in 1996. The reasons behind our lies are quite intriguing. Often, we lie to protect the people we care about, this is known as a “white lie.” But that's not the whole story. According to neuropsychologist and researcher Sylvie Chokron, lying is an incredibly complex cognitive process. When we lie, we activate multiple brain regions, including those responsible for language, creativity, memory, and self-control. Have we to be pretty clever to be a good liar? And which parts of the brain are affected when we lie? But why do we lie? To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Why do some people believe in ghosts? How can you revitalise your relationship with 3 expert sex tips? Why does not getting enough sleep make you selfish? A Bababam Originals podcast, written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 19/9/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Nearly one in three adults in the UK experiences symptoms of insomnia. On average, adults in the UK get about 7.6 hours of sleep per night. In recent years, the popularity of gadgets designed to track and improve sleep has surged. However, this growing focus on achieving perfect sleep has given rise to a new issue: orthosomnia. Smartwatches, fitness trackers, and more advanced gadgets like connected sleep masks or mattress sensors track sleep patterns and stages, such as REM and deep sleep. According to The Guardian in October 2024, the sleep monitor industry was valued at 270 million pounds annually, reflecting the growing fascination with these detailed sleep metrics. What is orthosomnia? Why do we think we need 8 hours of sleep? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here : Why do our bodies need to sleep? Should you sleep with socks on? How do I know if I sleepwalk? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Luke's ENGLISH Podcast - Learn British English with Luke Thompson
Another fun chat with my friends Amber Minogue & Paul Taylor. This one was recorded in early January and we talk about running & fitness