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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
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
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
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
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
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 matcha in hand… a tote bag slung over the shoulder… black nail polish neatly applied… a carefully styled mullet… and a copy of Sally Rooney peeking from his back pocket. That's the look of the so-called performative man. In the past few weeks, this character has turned into a full-blown meme, with videos racking up millions of views. On the surface, he checks all the boxes of a deconstructed man. But in reality, he often represents a slickly packaged version of masculinity 2.0. What does that mean, exactly? So how can you spot the difference between performance and sincerity? So how do you actually become an ally without overdoing it? 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? Do men really have a better sense of direction than women? 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
After the emergence of ‘quiet quitting', it's now the turn of quiet hiring. And although the term is relatively new, the practice is not. The term "quiet hiring" first appeared in the report "9 Future of Work Trends for 2023" published at the end of 2022 by Emily McRae, a philosophy professor in New Mexico, USA. She explains that this phenomenon follows on from the quiet quitting craze that emerged in 2021 after the Covid-19 pandemic which saw a huge wave of resignations sweep the country with nearly 4 million people quitting their jobs every month during this period. Quiet quitters complain that their workload was too heavy for their salary and that Managers were unclear about their tasks or workload, rewarding best performance and thus pushing them to work more. Where does it come from? But what does this have to do with quiet hiring? But doesn't that open up more opportunities? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: How does eldest daughter syndrome affect some women? What is a kakistocracy, in the world of work ? What does vaping do to the body? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 18/4/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Intermittent fasting has been making waves, especially on social media, where it's often hailed as a miracle fix for weight loss. While it's no silver bullet, fasting can be an effective tool when part of a well-rounded lifestyle tailored to individual needs. Intermittent fasting is a pattern of eating that alternates between periods of fasting, usually 12 to 16 hours, and eating. Staying hydrated is key. The British Dietetic Association notes that this break can help regulate insulin levels and reduce fat storage. Unlike typical diets, it focuses on when you eat, not what, which may make it easier to stick to. Isn't this how the human body evolved to function? Is intermittent fasting safe for everyone? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What are primitive reflexes? Is staying friends with an ex really a good idea? Is sex without feelings ever a good idea? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 1/9/2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We've all got fears. For some, it's the dark, for others, it's spiders, heights, or maybe even something as ordinary as a phone call. But when those fears take root and are no longer reasonable; when they take over, that's when they cross into the territory of phobias. Phobias remind us that our brains, for all their brilliance, aren't always working in our favor and are flawed. According to a survey by Anxiety UK, there are ten phobias that show up more often than the rest. So what are these phobias? And are there any phobias related to animals?In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: Where does our phobia of clowns come from? Can I cure my fear of spiders? What is omphalophobia, the fear of belly buttons? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fear of the dark is very common for children and usually starts between the ages of 5 and 10. At this age, children become more aware of the dangers around them. However, they often have difficulty correctly assessing just how real these dangers are. Usually, this fear disappears naturally as children gain confidence and grow up, but in rarer cases it may persist into adulthood. Principally, it is because darkness alters our main sense of reference: sight. This sense has taken over from the others, and human beings are particularly helpless in the dark. Not being able to see what's around us generates a feeling of insecurity. So, deprived of sight, the imagination runs riot, and our brains fill in the void with monsters under the bed! Folk tales, fairy tales and legends often reinforce this, conveying the idea that the dark is the playground of evil creatures. Why do we fear the dark ? Has it always existed ? What's the difference between fear and phobia ? How can you overcome your fear ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Which bread is best for your health? Has the climate breakdown really begun? How small is a micropenis? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 4/4/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ghost stories told around a camp fire, visiting a haunted house or watching a scary film are all common Halloween activities. We clearly enjoy scaring each-other and feeling scared, even though it seems completely counter intuitive. There are a number of reasons for this, which we'll explore in the episode. Fear is an emotional response to danger, both real or perceived. Our body releases a mixture of adrenaline and cortisol and triggers our ‘fight, flight or freeze' response. It makes us more alert, speeds up our heart rate and increases our blood pressure. We breathe faster, delivering more oxygen to the brain, and our glucose levels spike, giving us an energy boost so we are ready to act or react. How does fear affect us physically? Is feeling relief the only reason we like to feel scared? Can you have too much of a good thing? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What is chromophobia? Why do we jump when we get scared? Why does not getting enough sleep make you selfish? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First broadcast: 27/10/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mugging is a form of robbery that involves violence or the threat of violence against a person in a public place. It's also known as street robbery or personal robbery. However, would-be muggers have been foiled by a recent covert police operation in London which aimed at reducing street theft. Brave officers posed as potential victims by wearing expensive luxury watches to tempt thieves and hanging around in dangerous places, then when anyone attempted to steal the watches they were arrested by hidden officers lying in wait. And it has been successful, the operation reduced annual watch robberies from 113 to 55 last year in three central London boroughs. Who are the most likely victims and perpetrators of mugging? So how can you avoid being mugged or minimise the harm if you are attacked? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Why do women live longer than men? Does money really make us happy? Do I need to take vitamin D supplements? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 1/2/2024 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
Lemon water is a popular drink that many celebrities and wellness gurus swear by. But is it really as good as they claim? Or is it just another fad that has no scientific basis? Lemon water has been linked to several health benefits, such as hydration. Drinking enough water is essential for your overall health, as it helps prevent dehydration, which can cause fatigue, headaches, dry skin, and constipation. Also lemon's contain vitamin C which is an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from free radicals, which are molecules that can cause inflammation and disease. Are there any other benefits? And what are the myths about lemon water? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: 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 broadcadt : 21/11/23 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Muscle pain generally occurs after an intense sports session. "They are due either to unusual muscular work, or to an increase in the intensity of a workout, or to the resumption of a sporting activity after a break". According to Sports coach William Chanconie. In fact, muscle soreness results from micro-lesions in the muscle fibres and signals that the muscle has been damaged. When you feel pain going up the stairs after a long session at the gym, it's simply a sign that you've worked muscles that were weak to begin with, under-used, or that you've done a poor job. According to William Chanconie, the absence of pain is a sign of a good training session. What can you do to avoid them? What if you still feel sore? 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: 08/02/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mistletoe is a small evergreen parasitic plant that grows in clusters on trees. It has white berries and it has been used for centuries as a symbol of love, fertility, and peace. The Greeks used mistletoe as a cure for all sorts of ailments while the Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder noted it could be used as a balm against epilepsy, ulcers and poisons. The Druids came to view it as a sacred symbol of vivacity, and they gave it to humans and animals alike in the hope of restoring fertility. However, one of the most popular legends about mistletoe and probably the reason we associated this plant with kissing dates back to Norse mythology. But how did it become associated with kissing? How did kissing under the mistletoe become popular? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: At which time of day do we burn the most calories? Why does the cold make us need to pee? How can I meditate without meditating? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First broadcast : 21/12/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Seventy-four percent of 18 to 24-year-olds use AI every day, according to a February 2025 Ipsos study. No surprising really, chatbots now handle so much for us: emails, translations, studying, even creative projects. It almost makes you wonder how we ever managed before. But as fast as these models improve, they still make mistakes. And some researchers warn they could face a bigger problem: AI inbreeding, also known as model collapse. But do we have a specific example of this? So how can we combat AI inbreeding?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? How do you get better results with ChatGPT ? Which jobs are most under threat from artificial intelligence? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you're aged between 30 and 40, you're part of Generation Y, also known as the ‘millennials' You may have already said to yourself that the next generation, Gen Z, look much older than their age. Millennials grew up amid the rise of the wellness industry and numerous public health campaigns that promoted healthy living, think about the messaging around eating five fruits and vegetables a day, staying physically active, and avoiding smoking. Not to mention, there was also a strong push for sun protection awareness. Consequently, Millennials have largely embraced skincare routines and self-care habits that keep them looking youthful. But how is that possible? Are many Gen Zers really getting these procedures? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Why are young people going back to flip phones? What is “Act your Wage”, Gen Z's latest work-life trend? Is bikini waxing harmful for your health? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First broadcast : 05/11/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Salim Berrada, also known as "the Tinder rapist", has been on trial in France since 18 March 2024. He is accused of raping or sexually assaulting 17 women, after meeting them on the Internet via dating applications. According to victims his MO was always the same: he would invite them to his home for a photo shoot, offer them a drink that they felt compelled to take and which would result in them feeling extremely intoxicated. Although the defendant has denied the charges investigators were able to find traces of drugs, including antihistamines in several of the women. The women then described a sudden change in Salim's attitude towards them and said he then forced himself on them despite their objections and refusal. The only thing that unites all these women is that they were approached over the Internet Is it an isolated case? So how do you ensure a safe date on Tinder? Has the app put anything in place to prevent this kind of abuse? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What are the biggest misconceptions on beating heatwaves? What are the health benefits of using sex toys? Which foods should I avoid after their expiry date? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First broadcast: 16/04/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You've probably seen ads online promising easy money—“Make up to £300 a day using just your phone! Join me and change your life” It sounds tempting but here's the catch, most of the time, these claims are a scam designed to pull you into a pyramid scheme, afterall if making money online were that easy, we'd all be doing it. Pyramid schemes often masquerade as legitimate Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) businesses. While MLMs are legal in the UK and the USA if they focus on actual product sales, pyramid schemes make their money from recruitment alone, with little or no genuine product involved. Participants are asked to pay upfront fees, and the money collected is used to pay commissions to those who joined earlier. What is a pyramid scheme? How can you spot a pyramid scheme? What should you do if you fall victim? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: How can you protect yourself from being mugged? How do sim swapping scams work? What is a 419 scam? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First broadcast : 22/01/2022 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
According to the Office for National Statistics, the number of births in the UK continues to fall. Experts are even talking about a “baby bust”, the opposite of the “baby boom”, to describe these statistics, which have reached the lowest level since records began in 1938. One explanation for this could be that people are having children later than previous generations, leaving them with a reduced fertility window. In 2020, the Office for National Statistics notes that the average age at which women become mothers is 30, compared with 26 in 1975. In addition to this, the latest ONS birth data, released in 2020, reveals that 28% of women have their first child after the age of 30 and 5% after the age of 40. Can you run into problems if you want to get pregnant after the age of 30? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Could intentional lazy parenting foster your child's independence? What causes tocophobia, the fear of pregnancy and childbirth? Why do children have imaginary friends? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 27/2/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Clowns are supposed to make you laugh, but often can make you shudder. What is supposed to be a figure of fun is for many the stuff of nightmares. Coulrophobia —the irrational fear of clowns that's surprisingly common. This has been reinforced by popular culture, and many horror film-makers know that a scary clown is the perfect recipe for thrills, resulting in them becoming an icon of terror. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology in February 2023 surveyed 900 individuals, revealing that 53% experienced clown-related fear. Participants pinpointed clown makeup as the primary source of discomfort, with its distortion of human features creating an air of menace. Unable to discern true emotions behind the painted facade, people feel unsettled by the clown's unpredictable antics. The Science Behind the Fear What exactly is so unnerving about clowns? Are murderous clowns a reality or mere fiction? 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? Why does time go by faster with age? Why should I eat more fermented foods? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 7/5/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Starchy foods should actually be part of every meal. They come in three groups: cereal-based foods like bread, rice and pasta; pulses and legumes like lentils, beans, and chickpeas; and of course, potatoes. However, some members of this food group have a notoriously high glycemic index. What is a glycemic index? So does this mean we should avoid starchy foods? Is cooling the only way to lower the GI of starchy foods?In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: Which foods should I avoid after their expiry date? Which foods mustn't you put in the microwave? What are the most hydrating foods? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
She's one of the most influential women in the world. Taylor Swift, a country star in the United States who has become a global pop star, is shattering all records. She has been named the Personality of 2023, and has won Album of the Year for the record-breaking 4th time. In November 2024, Joe Biden, the President of the United States, is standing for re-election. His main opponent is still Donald Trump, what does Taylor Swift have to do with all this? Well, she has a considerable say in the outcome of the election. How so? What is the Taylor Swift effect ? And does it only apply to politics? 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. First Broadcast: 15/2/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For most 18-24 year olds, generative AI is already part of daily life. Research, emails, translations, summaries - AI is everywhere. Its possibilities feel endless, limited only by our imagination. But with that comes a growing skepticism, especially in schools and workplaces: “Was this really written by a person?” “Did ChatGPT write that assignment?” The good news is, there are clues that can tip you off. What are these clues? But are there tools to detect generated text? But how do these tools work? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: Will ChatGPT replace Google? How much CO2 does a search on ChatGPT emit? Which jobs are most under threat from artificial intelligence? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Stealth wealth or quiet luxury as it is sometimes known is the practice of concealing one's wealth or not flaunting one's money or possessions, but rather keeping them private and discreet. It's the kind of luxury that keeps a low profile and doesn't try to stand out with big logos or loud statement pieces. But that does not mean people don't know you are wealthy, at least some people do. Look at the successful show ‘Succession' where the uber rich wear logo-free, exquisitely tailored clothes that fool no one as to their price tag. Why do some people choose to be stealthy? Does stealth wealth mean living below your means? Is stealth wealth or quiet luxury for everyone? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here : What is Neo-Luddism, the growing anti-technology movement? Why is Camilla becoming queen and not queen consort? What is Extinction Rebellion ? A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast : 9/5/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Meditation is often sighted as a great way to relax, reduce stress and help us focus, but it can be difficult for lots of people to do in the traditional sense. However, meditation can be achieved without ever sitting down cross legged and focusing on your breathing. “The whole idea with mindfulness is training your brain, you can do this just as well by being intentionally mindful throughout the day. I don't think there's a right or wrong way, and it's important to do practices that resonate with you.” says Joy Rains, a mindfulness practitioner and author for the Guardian. What is mindfulness? How do I achieve mindfulness? What other activities are good for meditation? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What does my urine colour say about my health? Is looking older a bad thing? What is a Saturn return in astrology? A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue. First broadcast: 7/3/2023. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You might be the kind of person that meticulously fills your fridge with your groceries ensuring that every item is in the correct spot or perhaps you just shove them in wherever there is space but there is actual science behind how to best fill your fridge to keep things fresh and avoid waste. But everything you thought you knew may no longer be valid as the UK food authority has just updated its advice on a number of foodstuffs and where they should be stored so it might be time to refresh your fridge organisation. The most significant change is regarding potatoes. For as long as I can remember the advice regarding raw potatoes was to store them in a cool dry place but not the fridge. This was to stop something called “cold sweetening”, from happening. What has changed when it comes to storing food? What else should I know about storing food? What should not be refrigerated? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the 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: 04/04/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In French, when someone is beautiful, you can say they're ‘canon'. The word itself means a general law, rule, princely or criteria by which something is judged, but when it comes to beauty it is simply means model that we elevate to the level of perfection. Except that this model has changed a lot over the centuries and across cultures. Those who are considered “canons” today would have been considered ugly in another era. And some of the beauty standards of the past would probably look downright grotesque to us today. Did people alter their skeletons in the name of beauty? Is it mostly women who paid the highest price? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: How did broccoli freckles become a beauty trend? What is Face Wine, a viral beauty product from Tiktok? What is Face Wine, the latest viral beauty product from Tiktok? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
All our organs contain water, even our bones. In total, more than half of our body is made up of it, or 45 litres for a person weighing 65 kg. The water we drink is needed to eliminate waste: 3 litres disappear every day via urine, perspiration and breathing. It also helps maintain our body temperature at around 37 degrees and is essential for digestion. The recommended daily intake of water is around 6, 25cl glasses of water a day, in other words about 1.5 litres. For some of us, this rhythm is difficult to maintain, especially as it's not always very exciting to simply drink water. If this is you then you could try herbal teas or flavoured water. How can you tell if you're drinking too much? What can you do if you're concerned? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Why is sugar bad for our memory? Does the law of attraction really work? How can I stay trendy buying only second hand clothes? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 29/2/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We've all heard the saying, "This is giving me grey hair!" But is there any truth to it? Actually, yes. Several scientific studies confirm that stress can speed up the process of hair turning white. One such study, published in the journal Nature in 2020, involved Harvard scientists who used mice to explore how stress affects hair pigmentation. What did they find? Is there any way to reverse this? What's the takeaway? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What is jeffing? Why are driverless cars not yet on the road? How can I influence my dreams? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 29/10/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Depersonalization, a dissociative psychological syndrome, can be incredibly destabilising. It often takes years for sufferers to identify it. Characterised by altered self-perception, individuals may feel dead, detached, or anaesthetised. They might not recognize themselves in the mirror and struggle to distinguish between reality and a dream. According to Stanford University School of Medicine, this rare phenomenon affects only 2% of the global population. This unsettling experience leads to significant anguish, anxiety, and existential questions. How does depersonalization affect daily life? Is it troubling? Is stress or anxiety the main cause of depersonalization? What should you do if you experience these symptoms? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What happens in the brain when we lie? Why do we get brain freeze? How can I influence my dreams? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 12/11/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Are you more of an introvert or an extrovert? Or maybe a bit of both? While introverts often need solitude to recharge and feel more comfortable alone, extroverts thrive on interaction, seeking out social situations and sometimes feeling uneasy in isolation. These two categories are often seen as opposites, but experts at psychologue.net suggest that personality traits actually exist on a spectrum. This means that introversion and extroversion can coexist, and many people identify with aspects of both. If you see yourself in both introverted and extroverted behaviors, you might be what's called an ambivert. What does being an ambivert really mean? How can you tell if you're an ambivert? Is there scientific backing for the ambivert concept? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What is omphalophobia, the fear of belly buttons? What is wellness syndrome? How can I influence my dreams? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 7/11/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We spend a lot of time in bed and there is nothing nicer than snuggling up in clean fresh sheets but apparently not everyone feels the same. According to a survey commissioned by Pizuna Linens of over 2 thousand people in the UK it was discovered that 45 percent of single men are happy to wait up to four months to wash their sheets with a horrifying 12 percent only doing it ‘when they remembered' so who knows how long they wait! Women were shown to have higher standards of hygiene with 62 percent of single women washing their sheets every 2 weeks. But even this is just not enough with experts agreeing that you should wash your sheets at least once a week. But why do you need to wash them so often? What is the best way to wash them? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions ! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: How can I keep my exercise eco-friendly? Could insects replace meat? Can exercise snacking help me beat a busy schedule to stay fit? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 29/9/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
LoFi, short for "Low Fidelity," it blends elements of jazz with hip-hop rhythms, creating a relaxing soundscape. This genre has gained immense popularity, in part due to the YouTube channel *Lofi Girl*, which, as of October 2024, boasts over 14 million subscribers. The channel offers a 24/7 livestream of LoFi tracks designed to serve as ambient background music. Research on this topic offers mixed insights. According to BBC Science Focus, one study conducted in a textile factory found that slow-tempo music can actually decrease productivity by slowing workers' pace. The study suggested that more upbeat music might be more effective in maintaining productivity. But does it actually help with productivity? How should you choose music for work? Does personality influence how music affects productivity? What are some popular choices for productivity? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Am I listening to music too loud? Is it a good idea to fall asleep to music? What is the Mozart Effect? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 30/10/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ever feel like a grey cloud is hanging over you? Life seems a bit gloomy, and your days are dull. You're craving a change, but you're stuck in a rut. Well, there is good news and the solution might be much closer than you think. Sometimes, all it takes is tweaking one or two elements of your day to transform your life. Enter the ‘Yes Man' technique. Where does it come from? Should You Say Yes to Everything? What's the Point? What are the Limits? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What is the pathological laughter condition that affects The Joker? What is the Oosouji method of house cleaning? What are the dangers with being overly perfectionist? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 6/11/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ever found yourself swearing off sports after a grueling session, plagued by aches and pains, or feeling like you're always lagging behind? Whether you're a novice or a seasoned athlete, jeffing might be the solution for you. Developed by American athlete Jeff Galloway in the 1970s, this method aims to keep athletes of all levels in shape without overexertion. How does it work? How can this method be accessible to everyone? How does it boost morale? 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? What are the health impacts of taking public transport? How can I beat my smartphone addiction? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 22/10/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ever thought about making your fridge as stylish as your wardrobe or living room? Afterall presentation is important. Welcome to the world of fridgescaping, a trend that's taking TikTok by storm. It's all about transforming your fridge into a piece of art. Gone are the days of a simple, functional pantry. Now, you can adorn your fridge with beautiful vases, garlands, and even photos. How Does Fridgescaping Work? Why Bother with Fridgescaping? Is It Hygienic? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: How are social media influencers making money through rage baiting? What is the olive theory from Tiktok? How is AI slop invading the internet? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 10/10/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Does your face match your name? Surprisingly, researchers have scientifically proven that an Emma will never resemble a Sophie, or a Jack or an Oliver. They stem from a Franco-Israeli study published in July 2024, a collaboration between HEC Paris and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Participants were shown a photograph of a person and asked to choose their first name from four options. How can a first name influence our appearance? What is the Dorian Gray effect? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Who was the real Count of Monte Cristo? What is microwork? How can I beat my smartphone addiction? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 17/10/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, in his work The Joyful Wisdom, explored this through a thought experiment he called the "eternal return." He asked us to imagine: What if you had to live this very life, exactly as it is—every joy, every sorrow, every thought—over and over, for eternity? How would you feel? Would you embrace it? Or, as Nietzsche suspected, would you recoil in horror? Nietzsche believed this reaction reveals a deep-seated struggle many have with regrets and missed opportunities. His work, which dates back to 1882, shows that the anguish of missing out on one's life is not new but common to us all. So how can we avoid regret? What are these common regrets? What about relationships? Are these regrets unavoidable? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Could the 12-12-12 method help you declutter your home? Have you ever looked in the mirror and not recognized yourself? How does the 3-30-300 rule affect my mental health? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 21/11/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If the mere smell of a good cup of coffee is enough to get you out of bed, you might want to rethink your early morning ritual. According to nutritionists, drinking coffee right after waking up can have harmful effects. While you might rely on it to wake you up and give you energy, consuming it this early can actually make you more tired. Isn't coffee a stimulant? What happens when you drink coffee on an empty stomach? What should you drink in the morning? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Is it bad to drink coffee after 4pm? Is taking milk with coffee good for you? What is coffee badging in the workplace? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 1/10/2024 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: 12/9/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
After over three decades of relentless searching, the Golden Owl was finally found on October 3, 2024. This €150,000 treasure was hidden back in 1993 by writer Régis Hauser, who took on the pseudonym Max Valentin to publish ‘Sur la trace de la chouette d'or' ("On the Trail of the Golden Owl"). The book has 11 riddles, each one a clue to the owl's secret location, setting off what would become the longest-running treasure hunt ever organised. More than 200,000 enthusiasts, known as “chouetteurs,” joined the chase. What does the Golden Owl look like? Are there other famous treasure hunts like this one? Are there treasures we're still searching for? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: Are you an “ambivert”? What is the ‘Yes Man' Technique? Could vanlife be a lifestyle choice for you? A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 19/11/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices