Leaf & Elfie: Curious Talks

Boredom. We've all experienced it from time to time, but what does it actually do? Can it make us angry? Make us depressed? Slowly kill us? Or does it serve a less clear and more positive function?

In this episode we speak to a Professor of Cognitive Neuroscientist and boredom 'expert', James Danckert who aims to answer these and many other boredom related questions in his research at the University of Waterloo. 

If you have ever wondered:

• Do animals get bored?
• How do I make people really, really bored?
• Am I bored right now?
• Could I die of boredom?  

Then this is the episode for you.

James is the co-author of a brilliant new book all about boredom 'Out of my Skull: The Psychology of Boredom'

For more information about James' work visit the University of Waterloo 

People are taking up a plant-based diet to improve their health, help the environment or to address animal welfare concerns. 

Sam Shorkey is a pioneering body builder, fitness coach and first ever vegan World Naturals bikini pro.

We catch up with Sam to discuss:

• Transitioning to a healthy vegan diet (without piling on pounds!)
• Building muscle and losing fat 
• Highs and lows of bodybuilding bikini competitions

Sam also shares her top tips for an instagram envied booty, that you can do at home.

Check out Sam's website jackedonthebeanstalk.com for her recipes, coaching and podcast.
Find her on instagram @samshorkey

Our relationship with machines is changing. Artificial intelligence has changed the way we manufacture, spend our leisure time and gather information - but what does it mean for human intimacy in the future?

In this episode we talk to sex tech researcher Eleonor Hancock who has interviewed sex workers, technology pioneers and robot enthusiasts to try to answer the questions:

Will sex robots replace humans?
What are the risks of artificial intelligence in the sex industry?
How might crime and sexual criminal behaviour be mitigated by robots?
Can you buy a robot with dishwasher proof attachments?

WARNING: Contains sexually explicit content and reference to abuse. Not suitable for under 18s.

Eleanor Hancock. LinkedIn
Read Eleanor's research paper 'Our Sexual Future with Robots'

The sex toy business is booming during Covid-19 lockdown. Many couples are apart and frankly, we're all in need of a little TLC.

In this episode, Leaf and Elfie meet Eleanor Hancock, a researcher from leading sex-tech company Kiiroo to talk about the rise and evolution of "teledildonics". The award winning company has been at the forefront of developing futuristic sex toys from their home in the liberal city of Amsterdam since 2013. 

Mind-reading dildos powered by brainwaves, virtual reality orgies and pre-programmed blowjobs are all on the menu. Explicit content, please proceed with caution and curiosity! 

Have you ever wanted to read somebody's mind? Reading their body language could be the key to unlocking what they REALLY think!

Would it be powerful to know instantly when a person is telling you lies? To know when to push a bit harder in a business negotiation? Or perhaps you just want to know if your crush fancies you...

In this episode Leaf and Elfie talk to former military interrogator and body language expert Greg Hartley. Greg's expertise as an interrogator first earned him honors with the United States Army. He's trained with the Defence Intelligence Agency, Navy SEALS, Federal law enforcement agencies and is a regular on TV uncovering celeb and political mischief.

Who better than this tough teacher and serial author to share his top body language tips?

For more information, visit: www.gregoryhartley.com
Buy one of his body language books
Or visit www.BodyLanguageTactics.com for training courses

Covid-19 has left many people jobless or struggling with a reduced income. It's been a testing and stressful time. In contrast, for some its also been a time to appreciate nature, our families and give the planet a long-overdue rest from some of the pollution that human activities inflict.

In this episode Zoe Morrison, award winning eco-blogger and author of the money saving book 'Eco thrifty living' shares her tips for transitioning to a greener and thrifty lifestyle.

Her pragmatic approach makes 'going green' more accessible, less daunting and ideal for a budget-conscious family.

For more ideas on how to save money and live a more eco-friendly life visit Eco Thrifty Living blog or Zoe's book 'Eco-Thrifty Living'.