The science intersection

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In this episode of The Science Intersection, we talk with Bobby Donohue—artist, animator, and creator of Planet Bonehead, a globally distributed animated series teaching kids about climate science and green tech with humor and hope. Bobby shares how his journey as a creative dad turned into an educational mission that’s reached over 3 million students, why he focuses on elementary-age learners, and how his show is inspiring the next generation to take action on climate change.

With Planet Bonehead now freely available on YouTube but funded only by royalties, Bobby also opens up about the challenges of keeping this work alive—and why he’s reaching out to green tech companies and supporters who believe in solution-driven, empowering education.

🌍 Watch Planet Bonehead: planetbonehead.com
🎧 Like the episode? Follow, rate, and share to help more people discover the show!

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With Thanks to Ben Wiebe . In this episode of Science Intersection, Ben Wiebe — creative strategist, climate communicator, and consulted on films such as Don’t Look Up and Duty of Care,  joins us to explore the growing power of legal action in holding governments and corporations accountable for climate inaction. We talk about the limitations of COP, the weaponization of PR, and why stories not just science may be our best shot at systemic change.

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With Thanks to Travis

This episode landed a little later than usual. I’ve spent a week campaigning, which pushed the last release back and meant I started work on this episode later than planned. On top of that, the upcoming instalment is first doodle episode, and the extra editing time for graphics and captions turned out to be a lot longer than standard audio polishing.

It very technical so the visual may help you can find the visual version on spotify: 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0BfIXtppq2v1973s6Hqviv?si=gVGoU65TSTmGQjVMQE_1kw

or here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=whUchYpJ6MM

Unfortunately I am not able to upload the visual version to buzzsprout

What does Star Trek have to do with your dinner plate? In this episode of The Science Intersection, we sit down with Dr. Travis Kalu — who has been working as a postdoc researcher at UCL and a lifelong sci-fi fan — to explore the strange, promising, and sometimes messy world of cultured meat.

We dive into what it’s like to grow meat without slaughter, whether lab-grown burgers are really better for the planet, and why the path from petri dish to plate is more complex than you think. Along the way, we touch on ethics, food safety, public perception, and whether lab meat could ever be kosher — or even vegan.

If you’ve ever wondered what the future of food really looks like, this is the episode for you.

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In this episode of Science Intersection, we speak with Emma Österberg from the Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN), a UK-wide organisation supporting over 500 independent food banks and community food projects.

We explore what food insecurity really looks like today far beyond the headlines. Emma shares insights from IFAN’s advocacy, research, and their “cash-first” approach to tackling poverty with dignity, not dependency.

We also talk about:

• The changing face of food bank users
• How insecure work and low wages drive food poverty
• Barriers faced by people with no recourse to public funds
• Why emergency food parcels are not a sustainable solution
• And how Scotland is leading the way in rethinking food aid

🎧 Tune in to hear what it’s really like on the front lines of food insecurity and what needs to change.

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In today’s short episode, we tackle an important issue that came up in a previous discussion—access to menopause care. Many people have shared their struggles in getting the right support from their GPs, so we’re diving into what options are available, expert insights, and practical steps you can take. Let’s break down the barriers to better menopause care!

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In this episode, we’re joined by Bob Bevil, advocacy and campaigning lead at Chipping Barnet Food Bank, to explore the evolving role of food banks in the UK. From tackling the cost of living crisis to offering life-changing wraparound support, Bob shares powerful stories, unexpected insights, and what it really means to advocate for food justice.

We talk about the shifting demographics of food bank users, challenges around housing and hidden hunger, and the systemic change needed to create a future where food banks are no longer necessary. Whether you're curious about grassroots activism or the bigger picture behind food insecurity, this conversation is a must-listen.

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Our podcast is making a comeback on Buzzsprout starting April 4th with an exciting new season filled with fresh content and engaging interviews. Rest assured, our episodes will still be available on Spotify, so you won’t miss a beat regardless of where you tune in.

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With thanks to Amethysta Herrick.

In this powerful and deeply personal story, Amethysta Herrick shares her journey of gender transition, moving from presenting as a man to fully embracing her identity as a woman. With a background in science and technology, Ami began her transition in 2022 after decades of internal struggle, societal expectations, and personal discovery. She discusses the profound physical, emotional, and cognitive changes brought about by hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgery.

Ami reflects on how societal norms, like the belief that "boys need fathers," kept her from transitioning sooner. However, with her wife’s support, she embraced her authentic self, leading to an overwhelming sense of freedom and joy. She also explores the broader societal and historical context of gender nonconformity, highlighting its roots in myths and ancient cultures, and critiques the political climate surrounding transgender rights.

Ami emphasizes the life-changing power of living authentically, stating, “I don’t want to die. I want to live,” and underscores the universal impact of breaking free from societal expectations. Her story is not just about gender but about the shared human experience of seeking authenticity and self-fulfillment.

To learn more about today's guest check out:

This website (that also has coaching information):

⁠https://amethysta.io⁠

Professional website (with all the articles and podcasts):

⁠https://genderidentitytoday.com

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With thanks to Daniel Mermelstein

In this thought-provoking episode, we continue our deep dive into Universal Basic Income (UBI) and its role in addressing poverty and inequality. Joined by Daniel, we explore public perceptions of poverty, the debate between cash support vs. universal basic provision, and how societal attitudes shape welfare policies.

We tackle the scarcity mindset—the way financial insecurity impacts decision-making—and debunk the myth that poverty is a result of poor character rather than lack of resources. We also discuss global UBI trials, the politics surrounding welfare, and whether UBI is a tool to sustain capitalism or a step towards a more just society.

Can giving people direct cash improve their futures? Does UBI offer a solution to systemic inequality? Tune in to find out!

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With thanks to Jack for being a guest on this episode

We talk healthcare for people transitioning and about the current government attitude to trans and gender queer people. We also talk about the politics of trans and non binary folk. 

Some swearing present.

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