Shirtloads of Science

What if evolution isn't just about the survival of the fittest? Rowan Hooper, senior editor at New Scientist, joins Shirtloads to discuss his new book Togetherness - a challenge to the idea that nature is defined purely by competition. From the fig and wasp's ancient partnership to the mycorrhizal fungal networks threading through forest soils, Hooper makes a compelling case that relationships and symbiosis are overlooked fundamental aspects of evolution.

This conversation was originally recorded and published in November, 2024. In light of Richard's passing, we wanted to share it again because his insights remain as inspiring and relevant as ever. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.

Dr. Ann Jones joins me to chat about her hilarious new What the Duck? series, Nature's Most Wanted, which dives into the wild world of criminal animals.
We investigate some of nature's strangest case files… a duck caught speeding (twice), drug-addicted parrots, an underwear-nicking cat, drunk elephants, and heavyweight hamsters!
A funny look at the surprising ways animals collide with the human rules we've created.

What The Duck?! Nature's Most Wanted

Marine Ecologist Assoc. Professor Alex Campbell takes us into the wonderful, under-appreciated world of seaweed and makes the case that it might be one of our most powerful allies against climate change!
We dive into seaweed's evolutionary history and the troubling decline now underway: as ocean temperatures rise, marine organisms are shifting toward the poles at a rate of over 60km per decade to escape the heat, with Tasmania's once-thriving giant kelp forests shrinking by a staggering 90% since the 1990s due to devastating changes to their habitat.

But the story isn't all bad news. Seaweed also holds genuine promise as a climate solution - from carbon sequestration and biofuel production, to a renewable alternative to plastic, to livestock feed additives that can dramatically cut methane emissions. Alex makes a compelling case for why this humble marine organisms deserves a much bigger role in how we tackle climate change.

I'm joined by Dr Nick Fuller to dissect the long-term effectiveness of weight loss medications and why lasting results do actually require more than medication alone.
Nick explains why evidence-based behavioural weight management programs remain the first-line approach to weight loss built on three key pillars: diet, exercise and sleep (did you even know that sleep plays a big role in regulating hunger hormones?!)

Drawing on his team's research, Nick shares why many people regain weight after stopping medication and why behavioural change is essential for sustainable success (and keeping weight off for good!)