109 episodes
Show Me the Science with Luke O'Neill Newstalk
-
- Science
-
-
4.5 • 158 Ratings
-
Have you ever wondered why we laugh or if you can really die of a broken heart? Join Professor Luke O'Neill on ‘Show Me the Science’ as he tackles a different issue each week; from the serious to the silly, all explained through science. This Newstalk production will open the world of science to people of all ages. New episodes every Thursday. Show me the Science is with thanks to B Braun.
Listen and subscribe to Show Me the Science with Luke O'Neill on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Download, listen and subscribe on the Newstalk App.
You can also listen to Newstalk live on newstalk.com or on Alexa, by and asking: 'Alexa, play Newstalk'
-
136. The Science of the Origin of Life
The Earth formed 4.5 billion years ago and relative to that human life, and even life in general is a considered quite a new phenomenon. But, where exactly did life come from? And how did we eventually evolve to where we are today? Luke brings us right back to the start and takes us through the origins of life as we know them.
-
135. The Science of a Mars Trip
A colony on Mars is the next big step in space exploration. But, with such a long journey ahead of them, in such a confined area, how does the team of astronauts get chosen? Luke explains the science and psychology behind choosing the team and their motto - 'Leave the jerks at home.'
-
134. The Science of the Loch Ness Monster
A mysterious serpent that lives beneath the dark waters? A hoax? An abnormally large eel? There are many theories about the existence, or not, of the Loch Ness Monster. Now, the largest ever study of the murky lake has taken place as scientists search for a definitive answer. Luke takes us through the study, and the theories that inspired it.
-
133. The Science of the Vagus Nerve
The vagus nerve is the electrical superhighway of our nervous system - But just what does it do? And could triggering it be one potential solution to issues as wide ranging as obesity and depression to rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease?
Luke takes us through the latest research into the vagus nerve and explains how simply zapping it with electricity or triggering it through the ear might have positive effects. -
132. The Science of Walking
We've all heard that we should be getting 10,00 steps a day - But is this backed up by science? How many steps do we actually need to see benefits for our health? Luke takes us through the latest science that suggests less than half of that figure may be enough to reduce your risk of dying.
-
131. The Science of the Genome
Our genome is the recipe that makes us who we are and the day the human genome was finally mapped out was one of great celebration for scientists across the world. Yet, we still do not know what one fifth of those genes do. But, as Luke explains, thanks to new research some of these gaps in our knowledge are being filled.
Customer Reviews
Science and Art!
Hugely enjoying your podcast. Always so exciting! It has been a real lifesaver during Covid and beyond. You asked about other potential topics. I’d be interested to learn about the connection between science and art. I’m not exactly sure what my question is to be honest - ! The science of art / artists, visual artists, musicians, literary, their creativity etc! How are they so different to the average person? I don’t mean art in science but what has science discovered about what makes an artist, what happens in an artists brain and how it affects their behaviour to produce art. Why some of us end up in the gutter while others may be looking at the stars. Vive La difference! Thanks! 😊
So Interesting
Every Thursday I wait to hear what Prof. has on his podcast . I have not missed one yet to date! Varying and diverse topics are always food for thought. I followed his advice all through Covid as he explained things so clearly and calmly.
I must agree with another reviewer- ditch the background music while talking as it’s distracting as I prefer to hear Luke himself!
Knowing your stuff
I once went to a lecture by atom splitting scientist Earnest Walton. I was in the last year of secondary school and he explained splitting the atom in detail but also in everyday terms. It came to question time and he answered all questions simply and effortlessly. The teachers then asked questions and one tried to impress by couching everything in scientific terms. Walton asked him to simplify his question but he still used technical terms. Walton turned to us all and said if anyone really “knows his stuff” he can explain it to a twelve year old but if he hides behind technical mumbo jumbo he doesn’t!
Luke you are an example of someone WHO REALLY KNOWS HIS STUFF.
Please keep the podcasts coming!!! They are great. Martin