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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
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. First broadcast: 27/12/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
According to the UK's Department for Education, girls still make up fewer students choosing A-level maths and physics and even fewer go on to study engineering or computer science at university. Yet these subjects often lead to some of the best-paid jobs. So, does this mean girls just aren't as good at maths? So, what's behind that shift? So what can be done to change that? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: How is micro-feminism helping women combat workplace sexism? How does the Matthew Effect help us understand class inequalities? Why has purple become the colour of feminism? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. 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
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. First Broadcast: 13/5/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast: 14/12/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We all know staying hydrated is crucial for feeling fit and healthy. The general recommendation is to drink between 1.5 to 2 litres of water a day. But let's be honest, it's not always easy to stick to that. Ideally, you shouldn't wait until you're thirsty to drink water because thirst signals that your body has already lost about half a litre of water. But you might be surprised to learn that your diet can also play a big role in keeping you hydrated. Which foods are the best for hydration? Are there hydrating options for winter? Is there anything to avoid? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Which foods mustn't you put in the microwave? What does eating junk food do to our brains? How can I recognise ultra-processed foods? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 24/9/2024 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
Body positivity, once the rallying cry for self-acceptance and diversity, championed the idea that all bodies deserve recognition. Born online and amplified by social media, it pushed back against the narrow beauty standards long set by fashion and advertising. But in 2025, there's a sense that the tide may be turning perhaps even back toward a pre-body positivity mindset. So, how did this movement begin? So why is body positivity now losing momentum? And what about fashion - is it still inclusive? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: What are 3 tips for developing positive thinking? Why do we put on weight when in a relationship? Could zero dates make your love life more efficient? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Date de première diffusion : 1 décembre 2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast : 15/8/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
There have been many films and documentaries about the thrill and struggle of climbing Everest and with social media it has become an ever more popular destination. Just this year a French youtuber has broken audience records for his film ‘Kaizen' about his challenge that he made to conquer Everest in just one year. Over the past century, over 340 climbers have died on its peaks, with 2015 being the deadliest year with 22 fatalities. Most deaths result from avalanches, falls, and mountain sickness, which occurs at high altitudes due to low oxygen levels and can cause fatal brain or lung edema. Isn't Everest extremely dangerous? How do you get the bodies down? What happened in the storm of ‘96? What about over-tourism? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What is domotics, the technology behind smart homes? Are we more likely to fall in love when it's cold? Does sex help us to sleep better? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 2/10/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast: 25/5/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First broadcast: 20/12/2022 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. First Broadcast: 10/4/2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As artificial intelligence evolves at lightning speed, more and more people are turning to it for health advice. A survey conducted in April 2025 by the FLASHS Institute for Galeon found that one in three French people have already consulted an AI about their health. Among young adults aged 18 to 24, that figure jumps to 68%. And according to IPSOS, OpenAI's ChatGPT tops the list as France's most popular AI tool for health-related questions. But can we really trust ChatGPT with our health? And what about mental health? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: How much CO2 does a search on ChatGPT emit? Will ChatGPT replace Google? How to interact with ChatGPT? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast: 19/12/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 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. First Broadcast: 24/11/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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: 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: 31/01/2023 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. First Broadcast the 25/03/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast: 19/12/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In Tim Burton's 2004 film “The Corpse Bride,” groom to be Victor, rehearses his wedding vows in the forest to calm his anxiety. However, he mistakenly slips the ring onto what he thinks is a tree branch but is actually the finger of Emily, the corpse of a mysterious young woman in a bridal gown. Victor then finds himself immersed in the colorful and joyful world of the dead. But it is not just fairy stories or horror movies that are interested in zombies and the dead returning to the world of the living psychiatrists are as well. Cotard's syndrome, also known as the ‘living dead syndrome' is named after Jules Cotard, a 19th-century French neurologist who identified this disorder. Patients feel like wandering corpses, empty shells, convinced they are on the border between life and death. Immortality? Even though the patients believe they are dead? Is this syndrome common? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Why do mouth sounds drive some people crazy? Why does Ramadan start on a different date each year? How can I move house stress-free? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 19/3/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In a world where “the early bird gets the worm,” staying up late is often mistaken for laziness or a lack of discipline. But what if it's not about motivation at all? It turns out, being a morning person or a night owl has little to do with willpower. As Dr. Jimmy Mohammed explains, we're simply wired differently: some people wake up refreshed before dawn, others come alive long after sunset. So what determines your chronotype? But what if you're a night owl living in an early-bird world? So how can you tell if you're out of sync? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: How do I know if I sleepwalk? Which foods will help you get a good night's sleep? How can I wake up refreshed every morning? A Bababam Originals 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
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
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
Towels, used to dry our freshly washed bodies, quickly become dirty, collecting dead skin cells, perspiration, bacteria and fungi that thrive in damp environments. This can lead to fungal infections and skin problems. To manage this, use separate towels for the body and face, and ensure they are thoroughly dried between uses to minimise bacterial growth. Experts recommend washing towels at a high temperature, ideally 60°C or above, to effectively eliminate bacteria and fungi. Lower temperatures, such as 30° to 40°, are only effective on light stains and may not fully sanitise the towels. Over time, the accumulation of microbes makes thorough cleaning more challenging. How should you wash your towels? What are the best cleaning tips for toothbrushes? What about make-up brushes? 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: 11/9/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A Swiss survey from 2023 suggests they do: 73% of women said they never watch pornography, compared to just 17% of men. Talking about porn consumption is still taboo and even more so for women. Sexologist and psychotherapist Patrizia Anex says that's no surprise. Admitting to watching and enjoying porn is still frowned upon, she explains. Many women do it quietly, fearing judgment. But do women actually watch less porn, or just keep it to themselves? And how do women feel about the porn that's out there? So why are more women watching now? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: What is revenge porn? What is poverty porn? What is Pornhub? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. 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
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 the last episodes, you can click here: Why are brownouts getting more and more common in the work world? Which are the dirtiest parts of our bodies? Why do we hiccup? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First broadcast: 26/1/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast : 8/9/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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: What is the living dead syndrome? How to make the most out of hybrid working? Does sex help us to sleep better? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First broadcast: 16/5/23 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Most of us never really forget the person who first made our heart race or that awkward, wonderful, or maybe disappointing teenage kiss. Whether it was magic or a mess, that first experience often leaves a mark that shapes the way we see relationships as adults. How can one relationship have such a lasting effect? So, do we keep comparing every relationship to that first one? Does it matter if that first relationship was happy or painful? And what happens if your first love was a positive experience? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: Can you improve your relationship by learning your love language? How long does love last according to science? Could zero dates make your love life more efficient? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. 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
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. First broadcast: 27/6/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast: 28/11/2023 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 UK, owning a home is still seen as a key sign of financial stability. For many, it means security against life's uncertainties - job loss, illness, or income drops and a way to build long-term wealth instead of paying rent. Today, according to the comparison site Finder the average age of a first-time buyer is just under 34. In London, it's closer to 35. That's several years older than in the 1990s, when most first-time buyers were in their late twenties. So why has it become so complicated to buy now? What about young people specifically? So, is it still possible for young people in the UK to become homeowners? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: What are the pros and cons of homeownership in the UK? Why are so many young people suffering from financial dysmorphia? Do you know about home design maximalism? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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: How much do surrogate mothers get paid? What is the Barnum effect? How to spot, prevent and treat heatstroke ? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First broadcast: 08/12/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Since October 7, 2023, Israel has waged an unprecedented offensive on Gaza. What began as retaliation against Hamas attacks has escalated into relentless violence. According to Statista, by July 30, 2025, more than 60,000 Palestinians had been killed by Israeli bombardments, including over 18,000 children. As early as November 2023, UN rapporteurs, NGOs, and lawyers warned that Israel's actions amounted to genocide, an accusation Israel and its allies reject. What does the term genocide mean? How does international law define genocide? Do these criteria apply to Gaza? Who can prosecute genocide? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: Why is Israel going through a major political crisis? What is EU law primacy? What is the US Supreme Court? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. 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
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. First Broadcast: 28/9/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast: 30/5/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The internet knows everything about us. Even when we think we're discreet, traces remain, bank accounts, emails, administrative forms, social media profiles. To vanish completely, you'd have to delete every account and disconnect entirely. It may sound extreme but for those facing harassment, identity theft, or stalking, it can feel necessary. So, where do you even start? But what about others posting about me? Are websites actually obliged to erase my information? And what if embarrassing content resurfaces years later? So, can I really disappear without cutting ties to the digital world? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: What is the internet of senses? How did Internet Explorer go out of fashion? What is Google Stadia? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For some, true-crime stories have a strangely calming effect when they are tucked up in bed for the night. It's a phenomenon that's not gone unnoticed on TikTok, where people share how tales of mystery and suspense are part of their go-to nighttime routine. If you're one of those who drift off to the narration of unsolved cases, rest assured, you're in good company. And although the link between crime stories and relaxation has yet to be formally established, it's clear that the habit has a huge following. It's an intriguing paradox: the very stories that chill us to the bone also usher us into slumber. Like a modern twist on the bedtime story, these narratives shift our focus away from daily stressors—be it looming work deadlines, pending homework, or endless to-do lists. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine even suggests that immersing ourselves in a story at bedtime can not only lead to better sleep but also enhance digestion and cognitive function. Why does it relax us? But Why Choose Crime Stories? Isn't it a bit weird to be fascinated by this kind of story? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: How can I improve my sense of direction? What does my urine colour say about my health? Why are brownouts getting more and more common in the work world? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 16/5/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast: 19/10/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast: 9/11/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You know the feeling: you're running, cycling, or doing some other physical activity, and suddenly you feel a sharp pain in your side, just below your chest. It's like someone is stabbing you with a needle, and it makes you want to stop and catch your breath. Although there is no precise definition of exactly what a stitch is, everyone knows how to recognise it. This pain, which often prevents you from breathing, walking or running properly, disappears a few minutes after you stop exerting yourself. And while it can be a little frightening, it is completely benign and causes no complications. But where does the stitch come from? What can you do to avoid it? What if the stitch is already there? 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 Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 20/2/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. First Broadcast: 14/11/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week on The Earful Tower podcast it's Jake and Holly Barker, two American tourists who were actually inside the Louvre's Apollo Gallery when it was broken into on Sunday. I met them in the Marais to record their dramatic story. "When we heard the saws, we both knew that something serious had happened." It's reported that nine items from the crown jewel collection were taken from the Louvre. Also featured in this episode was Amber Minogue, our Louvre tour guide. Please get in touch to book a tour with her. The music in this episode was from Pres Maxson, rather fittingly his take on Elton John's "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters". *********** The Earful Tower exists thanks to support from its members. For the past 92 months and counting it has cost just $10 a month to unlock almost endless extras including bonus podcast episodes, live video replays, special event invites, and our annually updated PDF guide to Paris. Membership takes only a minute to set up on Patreon, or Substack. Thank you for keeping this channel independent. For more from the Earful Tower, here are some handy links: Website Weekly newsletter Walking Tours