Jo Durrant's Beautiful Universe: Recent Episodes
Joanna Durrant
Jo Durrant celebrates and explores arts and science as part of our culture. Winner of the 2021 Sir Arthur Clarke Award: Space Achievement - Media, broadcast & written.
In episode 292 Jo welcomes back Lucy Jane Santos, who is a historian, presenter and consultant, researching the unexpected places where science, culture and consumerism meet. They discuss her new book 'Nobody's Perfect: The Making Of Some Like It Hot', including busting a few myths about some of the stories to come out of that film, especially those about Marilyn Monroe.
(Content warning: Includes mention of baby loss)
Jo also has a highlight from the 2026 Cheltenham Science Festival, which is her chat with Prof Amanda Daley, Professor of Behavioural Medicine at Loughborough University, about the science of a short walk.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 291 is Prof Eileen G'Sell, who is a poet, culture critic and professor at Washington University. She is also the author of the book 'Lipstick', so on National Lipstick Day they talk about the history and cultural evolution of lipstick. Plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story behind some samples of moss in the collection, which are incredibly rare.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In a milestone episode 290 Jo is joined by historian, author and podcaster working for History Hit, Matt Lewis. He talks about his passion for history, especially the Wars of the Roses and Richard III, the books he's written on these subjects, and the podcasts and documentaries he presents. Plus he answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Holst Victorian House in Cheltenham to learn about Ernest Cossart, who was the brother of Gustav Holst and was a famous Hollywood actor.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo welcomes back professional photographer Jack Boskett in episode 289. He takes part in Jo's series where a guest chooses their Top Ten Theatre shows. His choices include Wicked, Phantom of the Opera and The Last Laugh.
Jo is also joined by Faith Douglas, author of The Nature Remedy, as they continue their series on the A-Z of plants. For U Faith talks about a tree known better by another name.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 288 Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from the At The Flicks podcast, to talk about science fiction. In this special edition they all go to the cinema together to watch the science fiction thriller 'Disclosure Day'. Hear their initial thoughts and what they make of it a few weeks on, including themes, effects and performances.
(There will minimal spoilers but you might want to watch the film before listening.)
Jo also has a highlight from the 2026 Cheltenham Science Festival, which is her chat with science communicator and rapper Jon Chase, on the science behind films like 'Jurassic Park' and 'Jurassic World'.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 287 is Jenny Wicks, the founder and director of Jenny Wren Productions and the Theatre Manager at the Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham. She shares her theatre journey with Jo, including some the most memorable shows she's put on, and talks about the open air summer production for 2026. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also has a highlight from the 2026 Cheltenham Science Festival - a chat with science journalist and author Emma Young who was part of the schools programme, talking about sleep, volcanoes and blood.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 286 Jo welcomes back Dr Daniel Swift, Associate Professor at Northeastern University and author of the book 'The Dream Factory'. He takes part in Jo's series where a guest chooses their Top Ten Theatre shows. His choices include Les Miserables, The Woman In Black and a few Shakespeare plays including King Lear and Othello.
Jo is also joined by Faith Douglas, author of The Nature Remedy, as they continue their series on the A-Z of plants. T is for Turmeric.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo presents a special edition of the podcast in episode 285, recorded on location at the 2026 Cheltenham Science Festival. She talks to a variety of speakers on topics including the weather, zoology, cyber security, genetics and space.
Guests featured: Jules Howard, Dr Sarah Bearchell, Prof Turi King, Dr Russell Arnott, Clare Nasir & Simon King, Prof Mark Miodownik & Prof Andrea Sella, Sophia McCall and Dame Dr Maggie Aderin.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 284 Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from the At The Flicks podcast, to talk about science fiction. They continue their series on the A-Z of science fiction cinema, with the letter D.
Jeff suggests a number of contenders for the Hall of Fame and Jo and Graham must decide what's going to be entered, or relegated to Room 101!
Themes discussed for D include dinosaurs and dystopia, plus films like Dune, Donnie Darko and The Day The Earth Stood Still. Plus John Putley shares some of his favourites for this letter.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 283 is Dr Russell Arnott, an ocean science communicator and director of Incredible Oceans. He talks about his career, passion for his subject and what he'll be doing at the 2026 Cheltenham Science Festival. Plus we learn why we should all appreciate plankton and Russell answers the Quick Six.
Jo also has a highlight from the 2025 Cheltenham Science Festival - a chat with Professor Helen Czerski about oceans, climate change and new technology.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 282 Jo is joined by Simon Mason, author of a number of books - for children and young people, literary fiction and more recently crime fiction for adults. He talks about his books in particular the DI Wilkins novels and the Finder Mysteries. Plus he answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives in Gloucester to find out about a little known story of a nursery in Cheltenham which grew orchids in the early 1900s that were sent to Japan.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo welcomes back Dr Emma Yhnell in episode 281 to myth bust biomedical and brain based science. Emma is a reader in neuroscience at Cardiff University and talks to Jo about a range of topics including the neurotransmitter dopamine, sleep, dreams and dehydration.
Jo also has a highlight from the 2025 Cheltenham Science Festival - a chat with Raechel Kelly from the Planet Cheltenham project about how to future fit our homes.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In a milestone episode 280 Jo welcomes Dr Darren Freebury-Jones, a Shakespeare scholar, public speaker and author of 'Shakespeare's Borrowed Feathers'. They begin a new series on the history of theatre, and start during the time of Shakespeare, looking at playhouses, costumes, audiences and plays.
Jo also continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum and author of The Nature Remedy. They've reached the letter S - which is for a herb.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 279 is historical novelist Essie Fox. She talks about her career, passion for gothic literature and her recent books 'Dangerous', about Lord Byron and 'Catherine', which is a retelling of 'Wuthering Heights'. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Holst Victorian House in Cheltenham to find the story behind the range, which is in the kitchen.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 278 Jo is joined by Prof Susan Amussen, who is professor of history at the University of California Merced. They celebrate William Shakespeare's birthday by talking about Susan's book: 'What's In A Name: How Historians Know Shakespeare Was Shakespeare'. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also has a highlight from the 2025 Cheltenham Science Festival - a chat with Prof Mark Miodownik and Prof Andrea Sella about the science of coffee and the science of cocktails.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guests in episode 277 are Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from the At The Flicks podcast, who return to talk about science fiction. They continue their series on the A-Z of science fiction cinema, with the letter C.
Jeff suggests a number of contenders for the Hall of Fame and Jo and Graham must decide what's going to be entered, or relegated to Room 101! Themes discussed for C include clones and computers, plus films like Capricorn One, Contact, Close Encounters of the Third Kind and Children of Men.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 276 Jo welcomes back Dr Sarah Bearchell, who presents science shows for children. This time she talks to Jo about her new book 'The Future of Agriculture', including how climate change and technology are affecting farming.
Jo also has a highlight from the 2025 Cheltenham Science Festival - a chat with Prof Kit Yates, who was speaking about maths and predictions.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo welcomes back Prof Adam Hart in episode 275. Adam is Professor of Science Communication at the University of Gloucestershire and joins Jo to myth bust a variety of subjects. This time it's tortoises, turtles and terrapins, including how fast they move, how long they live for and why a pair of tortoises went to the Moon.
Jo also continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum and author of The Nature Remedy. They've reached the letter R - which is for a well known vegetable.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 274 Jo concludes her celebration of Women's History Month and welcomes back magician Kerry Scorah. She takes part in Jo's series where a guest chooses their Top Ten Theatre shows. Her choices include a number of musicals like Wicked, Starlight Express and Six.
Jo also visits the museum of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and finds out why Rupert the Bear is in the collection.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo continues her celebration of Women's History Month in episode 273 and is joined by Rachael Rowe. She is an author and journalist and talks about her book 'The Science Lover's Guide To London'. She also discusses organising the Sturminster Newton Literary Festival in Dorset and answers the Quick Six.
Jo visits one of the museums featured in Rachel's book, the Grant Museum of Zoology at UCL, to find out the story behind a large butterfly in the collection.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
As Jo continues her celebration of Women's History Month, she is joined in episode 272 by Dr Shelia Kanani MBE. Shelia is a planetary scientist, space educator and author. She talks about her passion for space, studying Saturn and her recent book 'The Starspotter's Guide'. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story behind a small silver spoon and why it links Stroud to a town in the Netherlands in World War Two.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo begins a new series celebrating Women's History Month, and in episode 271 welcomes back historical novelist Annie Garthwaite. They discuss the sequel to her debut book 'Cecily' - 'The King's Mother'. This centres on the later life of Cecily Neville, mother of Edward IV and Richard III, and we also learn about three other powerful women of the Wars of the Roses.
Jo also continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum and author of The Nature Remedy. They've reached the letter Q - which is for a famous English tree.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In a milestone episode 270 Jo welcomes back Paul Scott, who has worked in theatres and arts centres for many years. He takes part in Jo's series where a guest chooses their Top Ten Theatre shows. His choices include some Shakespeare, Alan Bennett and Gilbert & Sullivan.
Jo also visits the Holst Victorian House in Cheltenham to find out about a harp that helps to tell a story about Gustav Holst's grandfather.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guests in episode 269 are Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from the At The Flicks podcast, who return to talk about science fiction. This time they pause their A-Z of sci-fi films, to shine the spotlight on B Movies.
Films discussed include Starcrash, The Blob, Mad Max and Santa Claus Conquers The Martians. Plus Paul Scott shares some of his favourite science fiction B Movies.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 268 Jo's special guest is Dr Daniel Swift, Associate Professor in English at Northeastern University and the author of the book 'The Dream Factory: London's First Playhouse and the Making of William Shakespeare'. He talks about his passion for his subject, the role The Theatre had in shaping Shakespeare and he answers the Quick Six.
Jo also continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum and author of The Nature Remedy. They've reached the letter P - the primrose.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 267 is Dr Elizbeth Norton, who is a historian specialising in queenship. She shares her passion for her subject and discusses her recent book 'Women Who Ruled The World: 5000 Years of Female Monarchy'. Queens they discuss include Matilda of England, Merneith of Egypt and Wu Zetian of China, as well as Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots. Plus Elizabeth answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story behind 10,000 year old, rare elk bones.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 266 Jo is joined by Phil Downing who is the manager of Harvington Hall - a Grade I listed Elizabethan manor in Worcestershire. They talk about his passion for history, why Harvington is known as 'The House of Secrets', has more surviving priest hides than any other house in the country and why Phil has spent a considerable amount of time in some of them.
Phil also tells Jo about a special wall painting project and they look ahead to the Harvington History Festival in July 2026. Plus he answers the Quick Six.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 265 is Amelia Thomas, who is an author, journalist and naturalist. She talks about her career and why she spent a year learning to listen to animals, for her book 'What Sheep Think About The Weather'. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also has a highlight from the 2025 Cheltenham Science Festival - a chat with Dr Russell Arnott, Director of Incredible Oceans CIC, about oceans and marine life.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 264 Jo is joined by Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from the At The Flicks podcast, who return to talk about science fiction. They continue their new series on the A-Z of science fiction cinema, with the letter B.
Jeff suggests a number of contenders for the Hall of Fame and Jo and Graham must decide if it's going to be entered, or relegated to Room 101! Themes discussed for B include black holes and B Movies, plus films like Back To The Future and Blade Runner and the TV show Babylon Five.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in her first edition of 2026, episode 263, is Dr Camilla Stokholm. Camilla is a lifestyle medicine doctor and the author of 'What Your Doctor Eats'. She talks about the importance of our microbiome, why eating 30 different plant foods a week is good for it, her own health journey and she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum and author of The Nature Remedy. They've reached the letter O - a plant with lots of health benefits - the olive tree.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 262 Jo welcomes back James Mayhew who is a children's author and illustrator. He takes part in Jo's new series where a guest chooses their Top Ten Theatre shows. His choices include some opera, ballet and musicals like Chicago.
Jo also continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum and author of The Nature Remedy. They've reached the letter N and it's something with a festive connection - the Nandina domestica.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 261 is Annie Garthwaite, who is a historical novelist. They talk about her passion for history, in particular writing about the women of the Wars of the Roses. They delve into her debut novel 'Cecily' about Cecily Neville - the matriarch of the House of York. Plus Annie answers the Quick Six.
Jo also welcomes back Dr Jamie Gallagher, who is a science communicator, public engagement trainer and chemist. He shares another story from the Periodic Table - this time how elements are named and why in the mid 1990s a number of elements were discovered but there was disagreement over what they would be named.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 260 Jo is joined by Dr Nicola Tallis who is an author and historian of the Tudor period. She talks about her passion for history, some of the women she has written about and her latest book 'Young Elizabeth', which is about the dramatic early life of Queen Elizabeth I. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Holst Victorian House in Cheltenham to find out the story of a gramophone that belonged to the Holst family, which plays one of The Planets.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 259 is Professor Adam Hart, who is professor of science communication at the University of Gloucestershire. Adam returns to do a new edition of myth busting, and he and Jo tackle the topic of extinction, as well as the issues around the idea of de-extinction.
Jo also visits the Grant Museum of Zoology at UCL to learn more about one extinct species - the dodo.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 258 Jo's special guest is Charlie Creed, a writer from Bristol. He talks about his career and his latest book 'The Cat's Tales: Feline Fairy Tales and Folklore', including famous cats and magical cats. Plus he answers the Quick Six.
Jo also continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum and author of The Nature Remedy. They've reached the letter M and it's the oldest plant in the world - moss.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guests in episode 257 are Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from the At The Flicks podcast, who return to talk about science fiction. They begin a new series on the A-Z of science fiction cinema, beginning with the letter A.
Jeff suggests a number of contenders for the Hall of Fame and Jo and Graham must decide if it's going to be entered, or relegated to Room 101! Themes discussed for A include alternate realities, asteroids and aliens, plus films like Arrival, Armageddon and the Alien franchise.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 256 Jo is joined by Dr Joanne Baker, a former astrophysicist and now writer. She is also Chief Opinion Editor at Nature. She chats to Jo about her passion for space, the research she has done and her new book 'Starwatchers: A History of Discovery in the Night Sky'. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also has a highlight from the 2025 Cheltenham Science Festival - a chat with Dr Shelia Kanani MBE. Shelia is a planetary scientist, author and EDI specialist. She talks about her children's book 'Can You Get Music on the Moon?'
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 255 is historian and author Mark Turnbull, who specialises in the 17th century. He talks about his passion for this period and his latest book 'Prince Rupert of the Rhine: King Charles I's Cavalier Commander'. Plus he answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Grant Museum of Zoology at UCL to find out the story of the echidna and why the one in the collection isn't entirely accurate.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 254 Jo's special guest is Dr Nicola Clark, senior lecturer at Chichester University, Tudor historian and author. She talks about her passion for this period of history and in particular discusses her recent book 'The Waiting Game: The Untold Story of the Women Who Served the Tudor Queens'. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum and author of The Nature Remedy. They've reached the letter L and it's the lentil plant which has many benefits.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo celebrates the 5 year anniversary of the podcast in episode 253 and she welcomes back two familiar voices. Jo reflects back on five years of the Quick Six feature, by exploring the favourite smells guests have chosen. She does this with sensory scientist and philosopher Prof Barry Smith who is the Director of the Centre for the Study of the Senses at the University of London. Smells discussed include freshly cut grass, baked bread, coffee, the sea air, rose and petrichor.
Jo is also joined by Dr Jamie Gallagher, who is a science communicator, public engagement trainer and chemist. In 'Periodically with Jamie' they explore stories from the Periodic Table, and this time look at TV shows that feature it on the walls such as Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Star Trek, but which get it right and which get it very wrong?
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 252 Jo welcomes back playwright Lou Beckett, who this time takes part in Jo's new series where a guest shares their Top Ten Theatre shows. Her choices include 'Hamilton', 'Death Of A Salesman' and a Shakespeare comedy.
Jo also visits the Holst Victorian House in Cheltenham to find out why a piece of embroidery helps to tell the story of the Cheltenham Female Orphan Asylum, that was close to where the museum now stands.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 251 is Dr Mike Esbester, senior lecturer in history at the University of Portsmouth. Mike talks about his passion for railway history and his research into railway accidents and how they tell a social history. They also talk about the Railway 200 anniversary and he answers the Quick Six.
Plus Jo continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum and author of The Nature Remedy. They've reached the letter K and it's the Katsura tree, which is famous for Autumn colour.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In a milestone episode 250 Jo welcomes back Dr Meganne Christian who a reserve astronaut with the European Space Agency and Senior Exploration Manager (Commercial) at the UK Space Agency. She talks about some recent space stories and shares with Jo her experiences of having the first phase of her astronaut training, including getting her flight suit.
Jo also has a highlight from the 2025 Cheltenham Science Festival - a chat with astronomer Prof Chris Lintott, one of the presenters of 'The Sky At Night'. They discuss the past, present and future of astronomy, including an exciting new telescope.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo welcomes back Dr Emma Yhnell, who is a Reader in neuroscience at Cardiff University and a science communicator. She returns to myth bust biomedical and brain based science, including the effect of heat on the brain, benefits of gardening and how useful daily targets in things like exercise and water are.
Jo also has a highlight from the 2025 Cheltenham Science Festival - a chat with marine biologist and writer Dr Helen Scales, who talks about her recent books including 'What The Wild Sea Can Be'.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 248 Jo welcomes back science teacher and writer Alom Shaha. This time he is also joined by Dr Rebecca Struthers, a watchmaker and historian. They talk about their book 'About Time', discussing the history and science of time. Plus Rebecca answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story behind a book relating to the town in the Second World War.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 247 is film maker Howard Burton, from Ideas Roadshow. He talks about his background in physics and philosophy and why he now makes films about art and art history, including works by Botticelli and Raphael. Plus he answers the Quick Six.
Jo also continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum and author of The Nature Remedy. They've reached the letter J and that's something found in gin - juniper.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 246 Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks podcast, to talk about science fiction cinema.
They discuss their top ten underrated science fiction films, including 'The Omega Man', 'The Day The Earth Caught Fire' and 'The World's End'.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo welcomes back children's author Christopher Edge, who writes novels that have science themes and ideas running through them. He talks to Jo about his recent books including 'Black Hole Cinema Club' and his latest 'Escape Room: Game Zero' where the main character ends up in a video game for real.
Jo also has a highlight from the 2025 Cheltenham Science Festival - a chat with children's author and illustrator Kate Pankhurst, who talks about some inspiring women from history and her latest book 'We Are All Inventors'.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 244 Jo welcomes back Professor Adam Hart, who is professor of science communication at the University of Gloucestershire. Adam joins Jo regularly to myth bust lots of topics and this time they talk about animals with misleading common names like glow worms, bear cats and whale sharks.
Jo also has another highlight from the 2025 Cheltenham Science Festival - a chat with science writer and children's author Isabel Thomas about her recent books 'Frog: A Story of Life on Earth' and 'The Bedtime Book of Even More Impossible Questions'.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo welcomes back Gareth Russell in episode 243. Gareth is a historian and the author of a number of books and he discusses his latest 'Queen James'. This tells the story of the life and loves of King James I of England and James VI of Scotland - Britain's first king.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story behind two objects in the collection which relate to the Second World War, including one connected to the Spitfire.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 242 Jo's special guests are Dev Joshi and Roland Ellis who have combined design with engineering in their studio Relative Distance. They talk about their careers and how this collaboration came out of a project to create a representation of the Moon. Plus they answer the Quick Six.
Jo also has another highlight from the 2025 Cheltenham Science Festival - a chat with Dr Sarah Bearchell about her science shows for children and families, including bubbles.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 241 is Rebecca Styles, who is a contemporary landscape painter. She talks about how different places have inspired her work and her recent time as artist in residence at Thorp Perrow Arboretum in Yorkshire, which has led to a new exhibition. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum and author of The Nature Remedy. They focus on a plant that Jo isn't a fan of - ivy.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In a milestone episode 240 Jo welcomes back Dr Chris Laoutaris who is Associate Professor of Shakespeare & Early Modern Drama at the Shakespeare Institute (part of the University of Birmingham) in Stratford-upon-Avon. They look at the representation of women in four Shakespeare plays - As You Like It, Macbeth, and two plays that can be seen as problematic today - The Taming Of The Shrew & The Tempest.
Jo also has the first highlight from the 2025 Cheltenham Science Festival - a chat with astronaut Major Tim Peake, who talks about his time on board the International Space Station, curiosity, his upcoming tour and a possible return to space.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo welcomes back Paul Anthony Jones in episode 239. Paul is a linguist and author of a number of books including 'Why Is This A Question', which they delve into, discussing topics such as why do some of us talk with our hands? Paul also talks about summer words, such as the name for someone who loves the sun.
Plus Jo continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, author of The Nature Remedy. They focus on hydrangea which has hundreds of varieties.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 238 Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks podcast, to talk about science fiction cinema.
They've reached the end of their series looking at the work of authors turned into films and TV series and in the final part focus on Ray Bradbury. Films discussed include 'Fahrenheit 451', 'Something Wicked This Way Comes' and 'A Sound Of Thunder'.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 237 is Helen Jukes, who is an author and creative writing tutor. She talks about her books in particular her latest 'Mother Animal' which redefines motherhood through the lens of the natural world. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, author of The Nature Remedy. They learn about different kinds of garlic.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 236 Jo welcomes back Mark Thompson, who is an author, broadcaster and astronomer. They discuss recent space stories, including the astronauts who spent longer in space than expected, what we can enjoy seeing in the summer night sky and why Mark is interested in the cross section of space and business.
Jo also has a highlight from the 2024 Cheltenham Science Festival - her chat with Prof AC Grayling, on the subject of who owns the Moon.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 235 is author Kate Werran, who talks about her passion for uncovering hidden histories, in particular her two books 'An American Uprising in Second World War England' and 'Black Yanks: Defending Leroy Henry in D-Day Britain'. She also answers Jo's Quick Six.
Continuing on the theme of World War II and the 80th anniversary of VE Day, Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story of one young man from the area and a very poignant letter. (Extracts of the letter read by Filip Boś).
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 234 Jo welcomes back Prof Adam Hart, who is professor of science communication at the University of Gloucestershire. Adam busts myths about marine life including bioluminescence, coral, seahorses, octopuses and dolphins.
Jo also has a highlight from the 2024 Cheltenham Science Festival - her chat with Prof Mark Miodownik & Prof Andrea Sella, about gases, microplastics, heat pumps and sweets.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo begins a new series where a special guest shares their Top Ten Theatre shows. To celebrate Shakespeare's birthday Jo welcomes back writer and lecturer Dr Darren Freebury-Jones, whose latest book is 'Shakespeare's Borrowed Feathers'. His top ten includes The Lion King, Hamlet and The Spanish Tragedy.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story behind a selection of items that make up an exhibition in the community space.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 232 Jo's special guest is Annabel Streets (who also writes as Annabel Abbs), who is a writer, researcher and avid walker. She talks about her latest book 'The Walking Cure' and how different landscapes we walk in affect us. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, author of The Nature Remedy. They learn about the beech tree (Latin name Fagus Sylvatica) and Faith reveals why it is one of her favourite trees.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks podcast in episode 231, to talk about science fiction cinema. They continue their series looking at the work of authors turned into films and in the penultimate part focus on Jules Verne. Films discussed include '20,000 Leagues Under The Sea', 'Journey To The Centre Of The Earth' and 'In Search Of The Castaways'.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 230 Jo welcomes back Anna Mazzola who writes historical crime fiction and modern legal thrillers. She discusses her latest book 'Notes On A Drowning' which she's written under the name Anna Sharpe, which is a legal and political page turner. Anna talks about her influences and her two female protagonists.
Jo also visits the Museum of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society in London, to find out about the plant cinchona, and how it is used in medicine.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo concludes her celebration of Women's History Month in episode 229. Her special guest is Shalina Patel, who is a history teacher and the author of the book 'The History Lessons'. She talks about her passion for her subject, including telling hidden histories. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury, to find out about Lucile Bell, who was married to John Moore, and without her the museum may not exist.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo welcomes back Dee Atkins-Greig in episode 228. Dee is a maths & meteorology tutor and a certified coach. At the start of astronomical Spring, she talks to Jo about various weather topics, including snowflakes, clouds, and weather map symbols. Plus for Women's History Month Dee nominates one woman significant in meteorology.
Jo also continues her series on the A-Z of Plants with Faith Douglas, author of The Nature Remedy. They focus on echinacea and why it has important medicinal properties.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 227 Jo's special guest is Claire Carroll, a photographer who specialises in wildlife, children's portraits and ultra modern buildings. She talks about her passion for photography, including a recent exhibition and she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Holst Victorian House to find out the story behind a recent acquisition for the museum - a piano that dates to the time composer Gustav Holst was growing up in the house.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo begins a celebration of Women's History Month and International Women's Day in episode 226. Her special guest is Carol Ann Lloyd, a historian and author who is passionate about Shakespeare and the Tudors. She discusses her latest book 'Courting The Virgin Queen' about the suitors to Elizabeth I. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury, to learn about the Pelican Badge and why this was an important symbol to Elizabeth I.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 225 Jo welcomes back Dr Emma Yhnell to myth bust stories and topics relating to neuroscience. Emma is a Reader at Cardiff University and a science communicator. Jo and Emma talk about a little blue dot, the 'lizard brain' and the impact exercise has on our brains.
Plus, Faith Douglas, author of The Nature Remedy and curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum returns to the podcast. Jo and Faith continue the new series on the A-Z of plants, with something many think of as a weed - the dandelion.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks podcast in episode 224, to talk about science fiction cinema. They continue their series looking at the work of authors turned into films and this time focus on Edgar Rice Burroughs. Films discussed include 'The Land That Time Forgot', At The Earth's Core' and 'The People That Time Forgot'.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 223 Jo welcomes back Stefan Gates, who is a gastronaut, writer, science communicator and presenter. He talks about his new book 'Loveology: The Explicit and Extraordinary Truth About Love, Sex & Relationships', although the conversation stays on the right side of decent! Topics discussed include the science behind flirting techniques, online dating profiles & why wearing red can make you more attractive.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury, to talk about birds that mate for life, in particular the magpie.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 222 is Dr Kathryn Harkup, who trained as a chemist and now writes about and communicates science stories. She talks to Jo about her book 'Superspy Science: Science, Death and Tech in the World of James Bond', which includes discussions on gold, diamonds, space and volcano lairs!
Jo also visits the Museum of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society in London, to find out why arsenic was used by pharmacists in the past.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 221 Jo's special guest is neurologist Prof Adam Zeman, who is an Honorary Professor of Neurology at the University of Exeter Medical School and Honorary Fellow at the University of Edinburgh. Adam talks about his latest book 'The Shape of Things Unseen: A New Science of Imagination', including why and how we dream and the parts of the brain involved in imagination. Plus he answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury, to talk about a type of hibernation called torpor and why badgers can go into this state.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo brings you a special edition in episode 220, on location in the Forest of Dean. She learns about the history of Whitecross Manor near Lydney, which has links to Sir Francis Drake and was destroyed in the English Civil War. Her guide is historian Dr Roger Deeks who tells her about the people and the place and why modern archaeologists are interested in it.
Plus Jo meets a woman who has a sword in her family that is believed to be from Whitecross Manor.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 219 Jo's special guest is Dr Elaine Kasket, who is a counselling and cyber psychologist, as well as an author. Elaine talks about her work, including her latest book 'Reset: Rethinking Your Digital World for a Happier Life'. Topics discussed include privacy online, surveillance technology and the digital afterlife.
Plus, Faith Douglas, author of The Nature Remedy and curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum returns to the podcast. Jo and Faith continue the new series on the A-Z of plants, with the calendula, otherwise known as the marigold.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 218 is Prof Adam Hart, who is professor of science communication at the University of Gloucestershire. Adam returns to myth bust and this time its hibernation, looking at what animals do it, why and how they do it, different kinds of hibernation, and how things like climate change are affecting it.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to learn about the hedgehog, one of the mammals in the UK that goes into full hibernation.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In the first episode of 2025 (ep 217), Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from the At The Flicks podcast. They reveal their top ten science fiction films from 2024 and guests and listeners share their favourites too.
Jeff and Graham also look ahead to what we can enjoy at the cinema when it comes to science fiction in 2025.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
It's the Christmas Special 2024, and in episode 216 Jo welcomes back Dr Tracy Borman OBE and Gareth Russell, who are both historians, authors and broadcasters. They reflect on 2024, look ahead to their new book releases in 2025, talk about Tudor Christmases and their own festive traditions.
Faith Douglas, author of The Nature Remedy and curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum also returns to the podcast. Jo and Faith continue the new series on the A-Z of plants, with the birch tree.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 215 is Paul Anthony Jones, a linguist and author. He talks about his passion for obscure words, his books including his latest 'A Winter Dictionary' and he answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to discuss two books by John Moore which reflect the winter season - 'Come Rain, Come Shine' and 'A Pocketful Of Acorns'.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 214 of the podcast Jo welcomes back Dee Atkins-Greig, who is a maths & meteorology tutor. She talks to Jo about various weather topics, including frost, freezing fog and how storms get their names in the UK.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to discuss the book by John Moore 'Season Of The Year' and how the writer observed the weather.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 213 is Lucy Jane Santos, who returns to the podcast. Lucy is a freelance historian and consultant, examining the crossroads of health, wellness & beauty with science and technology.
She talks about her latest book 'Chain Reactions: A Hopeful History of Uranium', which includes stories about Las Vegas, Atomic Cocktails and X-Ray Skirts. Plus she reveals her latest project and how it links to Marilyn Monroe.
Jo also chats to one of the team from Wakefield Museums and Castles, to find out the story of an influential school textbook.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 212 Jo welcomes back Dr Emma Yhnell to myth bust stories and topics relating to neuroscience. Emma is a Reader at Cardiff University and a science communicator. Jo and Emma talk about how AI could help people living with dementia, bear brain surgery and why smell and memories are so closely linked e.g. when it comes to pumpkin spice.
Jo is also joined by Dr Jamie Gallagher, who is a science communicator and public engagement trainer from Glasgow. He returns with another story from the Periodic Table and this time it's all about atoms.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 211 is Dr Darren Freebury-Jones, who is the author of a number of a books about Shakespeare and his contemporaries. He talks about his work, in particular his latest book 'Shakespeare's Borrowed Feathers', about the early modern playwrights who shaped the Bard. Plus he answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the physic garden at Amersham Museum, to meet director and pharmacy historian Briony Hudson. Briony talks about a book called 'A Modern Herbal'.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 210 Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks podcast to talk about science fiction cinema. They continue their series looking at the work of authors turned into films and this time focus on Stephen King. Films discussed include 'The Running Man' and 'The Mist', as well as TV series like 'The Stand'.
Listeners and guests share some of their favourite science fiction films inspired by the books of Stephen King, including Paul Scott.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 209 is Lynne Peeples, a science journalist based in Seattle. Lynne is the author of the book 'The Inner Clock' and talks to Jo about our circadian rhythms and the impact of food, sleep and light on them. Lynne talks about her research, including ten days in a bunker, and she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud, to learn the story behind a clock which tells us about Stroud Time and Railway Time.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 208 Jo's special guest is writer Anna Mazzola, who talks about her career as a lawyer as well as her books, including her latest historical crime thriller 'The Book Of Secrets'. She also talks about her next project - a modern legal thriller - and she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the physic garden at Amersham Museum, to meet director and pharmacy historian Briony Hudson. Briony talks about a special box pharmacy students would have used to learn about certain plants in the past.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 207 is Prof Adam Hart, who is professor of science communication at the University of Gloucestershire. Adam is back to myth bust a topic and this time its anthropomorphising animals, which is when we imbue them with human qualities. He looks at why we favour some animals to others and the pros and cons of anthropomorphism.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to learn about otters and why they are good predators.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Episode 206 of the podcast is Jo's 4 year anniversary and it's also World Space Week. Jo's special guest is Dr Meganne Christian who is Commercial Exploration Lead at the UK Space Agency and a Reserve Astronaut for the European Space Agency. She talks about her life and career, including becoming part of the astronaut corps, her time in Antarctica and she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also has a highlight from the 2024 Cheltenham Science Festival - talking to aerospace engineer and baker Andrew Smyth about baking, engineering and space.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guest in episode 205 is Dr Penelope Campling, a consultant psychiatrist, who worked in the field for over 40 years. She talks about her career including what we can learn from therapeutic communities. She also discusses her book 'On The Brink: Stories of Harm & Healing from a Lifetime in Psychiatry', and she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives and learns about records relating to female patients who were at the Horton Road Asylum in the 19th century.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
In episode 204 Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks podcast to talk about science fiction cinema. They continue their series looking at the work of authors turned into films and this time focus on HG Wells. Films discussed include 'War of the Worlds', 'The Invisible Man' and 'The Time Machine'.
Listeners and guests share some of their favourite films inspired by the books of HG Wells, including John Putley.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo brings you a special edition in episode 203, on location at the Holst Victorian House in Cheltenham. She marks the 150th anniversary since the birth of composer Gustav Holst with curator Laura Kinnear. They talk about his life and work, including The Planets and learn about the Digital Kiosk in the museum.
Plus Jo has a highlight from the Cheltenham Science Festival. She talks to professor of mathematics Prof Marcus Du Sautoy, astrophysicist Dr Hannah Wakeford and composer Robert Laidlow about their event combining maths, music and space.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
Jo's special guests in episode 202 are Professor Nadine Akkerman & Dr Pete Langman. Nadine is professor of Early Modern Literature and Culture at Leiden University, The Netherlands and Pete is an editor, writer and independent scholar. They talk to Jo about their book 'Spycraft' which explores the history and science of espionage techniques from the time of Elizabeth I to the Restoration. Plus they both answer Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also has another highlight from the 2024 Cheltenham Science Festival - her chat with chartered psychologist Kimberley Wilson about her book 'Unprocessed'.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 201 Jo welcomes back crime writer and TV presenter Jackie Kabler. She talks about her latest book 'The Life Sentence' and the research that she did for it, including into technology and cyber crime.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives to find out the story behind some school records.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's website: https://jodurrant.co.uk/
It's the 200th episode of the award-winning podcast, that is the space for arts and science. In this special feature length extended episode Jo welcomes back a host of guests, and topics discussed include myth busting, meteorology, plants, sensory science, illustration, video games, theatre, history, neuroscience, microbiology, the Periodic Table, science fiction films and space.
Guests featured: Dr Emma Yhnell, Professor Jo Verran, Briony Hudson, Melanie Backe-Hansen, Professor Adam Hart, James Mayhew, Faith Douglas, Dr Jamie Gallagher, Corey Brotherson, Paul Scott, Mark Thompson, Sue Nelson, Professor Barry Smith, Jeff Downes, Graham O'Dwyer and Dee Atkins-Greig.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 199 is Tom Donald who is a pianist and composer. Tom talks about his career including film scores and his passion for music and the science behind it. He discusses a special collaboration that combines piano and Gregorian chant for the album 'Pax Aeterna'. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story behind a piece of cloth that reveals a surprising aspect of the textile heritage of the town.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 198 Jo's special guest is writer and conductor Lev Parikian. He talks about his books and passion for birds, and discusses his latest book 'Taking Flight' about how animals learned to fly, including birds, bats and insects. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also chats to one of the team from Wakefield Museums and Castles, to find out the story of a poster and one man from the area who was passionate about the environment.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 197 is Cheltenham writer Hayley Hoskins, who writes middle grade fiction. She talks about her journey as a writer and about her latest book 'The Whisperling Twins', which was inspired by the history of Gloucester. Plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story behind one of the largest items in the collection - a painting of a very interesting character.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 196 Jo's special guest is Dr Chris Laoutaris who is Associate Professor of Shakespeare & Early Modern Drama at the Shakespeare Institute (part of the University of Birmingham) in Stratford-upon-Avon. They discuss Shakespeare, in particular Chris's latest book about the people behind the First Folio - 'Shakespeare's Book'. Plus Chris answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits Amersham Museum to chat to director Briony Hudson, and they continue to explore the physic garden and learn about the Apothecary's Rose.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Dee Atkins-Greig, who is a maths tutor and meteorologist. Dee and Jo discuss maths confidence, life coaching and the weather, including how the jet stream affects weather in the UK in particular and what happens when a heatwave is declared. Plus we learn more about clouds.
Jo is also joined by Professor Jim Al-Khalili who is a theoretical physicist, author and broadcaster. Jo speaks to Jim at the Cheltenham Science Festival 2024 about the mysteries of time.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 194 Jo welcomes back Professor Adam Hart, who is professor of science communication at the University of Gloucestershire. Adam returns to myth bust another topic and this time looks at dogs, their history and relationship to humans.
Jo also visits Amersham Museum to chat to director Briony Hudson, and they explore the physic garden and some of the plants that have medicinal properties.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks, in episode 193, to discuss science fiction cinema. They continue the series exploring the books of sci-fi novelists that have been turned into films, and this time look at the work of Michael Crichton. Films discussed include The Andromeda Strain, Westworld and Jurassic Park.
Plus science journalist and writer Sue Nelson, and writer and narrative designer Corey Brotherson share their favourite films inspired by the work of Michael Crichton.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 192 Jo's special guest is Jules Howard, who is a zoology correspondent and author. He talks about his latest book 'Infinite Life' which is about eggs, evolution and life on Earth, including birds, fish and dinosaurs.
Jo also talks to Prof Niamh Nic Daéid, who is Professor of Forensic Science at the University of Dundee and is the Director of the Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science. They discuss the future of forensics at the Cheltenham Science Festival.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Faith Douglas in episode 191, to mark the Summer Solstice. Faith is the curator of Thorp Perrow Arboretum in North Yorkshire and she is also the author of 'The Nature Remedy'. Jo and Faith talk about the plants we can enjoy and use at this time of year and how to have a closer relationship with the natural world, including bare foot walking, grounding and forest bathing.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives, to find out about the new Green Pledge Project and learns the story behind a scrap book of wildflowers.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In a milestone episode 190, Jo presents a special edition of the podcast, on location at the 2024 Cheltenham Science Festival. She talks to a range of the speakers about subjects including space, genetics, maths, neuroscience, zoology and bubbles.
Guests featured: Prof Turi King, Prof Marcus du Sautoy, Dallas Campbell, Dr Meganne Christian, Ginny Smith, Jules Howard, Stefan Gates and Dame Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 189 Jo's special guest is Rick Tonello, the Chief Astronomer at the Gravity Discovery Centre Observatory in Western Australia. He talks about his passion for space, dark skies, witnessing a total solar eclipse and the recent aurora activity. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Grant Museum in London, which is part of UCL, and has recently reopened after a refurbishment. She finds out the story of a 3D printed model of a tardigrade - a microscopic creature that can survive in space.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Dr Emma Yhnell in episode 188 to myth bust stories and topics relating to neuroscience. Emma is a senior lecturer at Cardiff University and a science communicator. Jo and Emma talk about dementia, memory cafes, tips for revising for exams and if you can have a photographic memory.
Jo is also joined by Dr Jamie Gallagher, who is a science communicator and public engagement trainer from Glasgow. He returns with another story from the Periodic Table and this time it centres on a place in Sweden.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 187 Jo's special guest is Steve Darlow, who is a writer of books & theatre, a publisher and documentary consultant. He talks about his interest in history, including the role his grandfather had in the Second World War and he tells Jo about his theatrical productions including 'The Valentine Letters'. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also chats to one of the team from Wakefield Museums and Castles, to find out the story of a 1930s fire engine that has been part of the collection for over 50 years but has never been on display.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks, in episode 186, to discuss science fiction cinema. They start a new series exploring the books of sci-fi novelists that have been turned into films, beginning with Philip K. Dick. Films discussed include Blade Runner, Total Recall and Minority Report.
Plus science journalist and writer Sue Nelson, and writer and narrative designer Corey Brotherson share their favourite films inspired by the work of PKD.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 185 Jo's special guest is photographer Jack Boskett, from Tewkesbury. He talks about his career, including how his love of railways led to royal photography. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Holst Victorian House in Cheltenham and finds out the story behind a painting of relatives of Gustav Holst.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 184 is Gloucestershire based playwright Lou Beckett. She discusses her latest play 'A Rose By Any Other Name' and how it was inspired by Shakespeare. Plus she talks about the charity she co-founded called Theatre Works.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story behind a medieval tile featuring the game Nine Men's Morris.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 183 Jo's special guest is Joe Hackett, who is the MD of IKP, a Gloucestershire based theatre company. Joe talks about his passion for theatre, making is accessible to everyone and his latest production 'You're Bard' which presents Shakespeare in a unique way. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also chats to one of the team from Wakefield Museums and Castles, to find out the story of an Elizabethan style dress that was worn for a pageant in the 1930s.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 182 is author Gareth E Rees, who talks about his love of storytelling and how he's combined science with folk tales in his latest book 'Sunken Lands', which explores issues like climate change. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Grant Museum in London, which is part of UCL, and has recently reopened after a refurbishment. She finds out the story of two very small frogs and how they are adapting to a changing climate.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 181 Jo's special guest is Honor Harger who is Vice President of ArtScience Museum in Singapore at Marina Bay Sands. Honor talks about her passion for the intersection of arts & science, her decade at the museum where she is Artistic and Executive Lead and exhibitions including the recent 'Mars: The Red Mirror' and the permanent 'Future World', which features The Crystal Universe. She also answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits WA Museum Boola Bardip in Perth in Western Australia, where the brand new 'To The Moon' exhibition has recently opened. She chats to manager and lead curator for the exhibition, Helen Simondson.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in a milestone episode 180 is filmmaker and visual effects designer Paul Franklin. Paul talks about his career including work in the feature film industry, and in particular his involvement in the films 'Inception' and 'Interstellar', which he won Academy Awards for. Plus he answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Gravity Discovery Centre & Observatory, which is around an hour away from Perth in Western Australia. She chats to Chief Astronomer Rick Tonello about the hands on science at the centre and hopes for it to become a dark sky site.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 179 Jo welcomes back Dr Kathryn Harkup, who trained as a chemist and now writes about and communicates science stories. She talks to Jo about her recent book 'The Secret Lives of Molecules', including coffee, tea, naps and how to avoid zombies!
Jo also welcomes back Dr Jamie Gallagher, who is a science communicator, public engagement trainer and chemist. He returns to share another story from the Periodic Table, and this time it's an element that's essential to the human body but also takes us to the Moon.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 178 is Dee Atkins-Greig who is a maths and meteorology tutor. Dee talks about her career as a weather forecaster, first in the Royal Navy and later on television. She talks about her passion for her subject, including why clouds have certain names, and she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Grant Museum in London, which is part of UCL, and has recently reopened after a refurbishment. She learns the story of two horseshoe crabs in the collection.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 177 Jo welcomes back Dr Helen Fry, who is a historian and the author of a number of books that focus on intelligence and espionage, in particular during the First and Second World Wars. Helen joins Jo during Women's History Month to talk about her latest book 'Women In Intelligence', in which she has uncovered some incredible stories and hidden histories.
Jo also visits the Holst Victorian House in Cheltenham and finds out the story behind a manuscript which Gustav Holst gifted to one woman who gave him a lot of support.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
It's the start of Women's History Month and Jo's special guest in episode 176 is Dr Suzy Lishman CBE. Suzy is a consultant histopathologist and a medical examiner and talks to Jo about her passion for this area. She also discusses her public engagement work, including her 'Living Autopsy' demonstration. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Royal Pharmaceutical Society Museum in London to find out why a crocodile used to be the symbol of pharmacy.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In a special bonus mini edition of the podcast, Jo visits ArtScience Museum in Singapore to see the exhibition 'Mars: The Red Mirror'.
She talks to Honor Harger who is Vice President and Artistic & Executive Lead for ArtScience Museum. She is also Vice President for Attractions at Marina Bay Sands, which is where the museum is based.
The exhibition is split into three sections which looks at 12,000 years of history of the red planet, how Mars was viewed in the 20th century and asks questions around the idea of moving to Mars.
Honor will be the special guest in episode 181.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
In episode 175 Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks, to explore science fiction cinema. This time they shine the spotlight on prequels, including discussions on the prequels to Alien, Planet of the Apes, X-Men and Star Wars.
Plus science journalist and writer Sue Nelson, and video game and graphic novel writer and editor Corey Brotherson share their favourite sci-fi prequels.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back philosopher and sensory scientist Professor Barry Smith in episode 174. He is from the Centre for the Study of the Senses at the University of London and talks about his latest research, how sound plays a part in our enjoyment of food and he has some tips for super tasters like Jo.
Jo also chats to one of the team from Wakefield Museums and Castles, to find out the story of a coffee set found in Castleford, and why the person who designed it was so influential.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 173 Dr Emma Yhnell returns to myth bust stories and topics relating to neuroscience. Emma is a senior lecturer at Cardiff University and a science communicator. Jo and Emma discuss how motion capture is being used in medicine, the impact of handwriting on the brain, and the subject of love, hormones and neurotransmitters.
Jo also visits a new museum on the podcast - the Holst Victorian House in Cheltenham. 2024 is the 150th anniversary of the birth of composer Gustav Holst and Jo finds out the story behind a piano he composed some of The Planets on.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 172 is writer and photographer John Gilbey. He talks about his background in environmental research, writing for the Country Diary column in the Guardian newspaper and about his own book 'Country Diary Wales'. Plus he answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to find out the story behind one of John Moore's most popular books 'The Season Of The Year'.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 171 Jo is joined by Dhara Patel, Space Expert at the National Space Centre in Leicester. She talks about her career and passion for space, as well as the 20th anniversary of the Beagle 2 Mars Lander and why it's so significant for the UK. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Dhara also puts an item into Jo's virtual museum, which is a scale model of Beagle 2 at the National Space Centre.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in a milestone episode 170 is Dr Tracy Borman, who is an author, historian and joint Chief Curator at Historic Royal Palaces. She talks to Jo about her career, passion for history and her books including 'Anne Boleyn & Elizabeth I'. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to find out the story behind two chamber pots, which would have been used in Tudor times.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 169 Jo is joined by Emma Pears, who is an author, songwriter and entrepreneur, and has written the book 'What Does It Matter?'. Emma talks to Jo about her career and explains her philosophy of how we can all live with less stress and more joy. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also welcomes back Dr Jamie Gallagher, who is a science communicator, public engagement trainer and chemist. He returns to share another story from the Periodic Table, and this time it's a very colourful element.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back science writer Paul Rincon in episode 168. Paul is commissioning editor for science and technology at The Conversation, and returns to discuss space stories that have been in the news recently.
Topics include the latest on the Osiris-Rex mission that returned from asteroid Bennu, Starship, sub-Neptunes and space debris.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives to find out why there are over 100 photograph albums in the collection, relating to the Gloucestershire Railway Carriage and Wagon Works.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In the first episode of 2024 (167), Jo is joined once more by Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks, to explore science fiction cinema.
In this edition they review sci-fi films and TV shows from 2023, including some prequels, sequels and movies that focus on artificial intelligence.
They also look ahead to what we can enjoy in the next 12 months and science journalist Paul Rincon reveals which science fiction films he's planning to watch in 2024.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 166 Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks, to explore science fiction cinema. They focus on films that have the themes of alternate realities and parallel universes, including Back To The Future 1 & 2, Source Code, Groundhog Day, Sliding Doors and Everything Everywhere All At Once.
Plus science journalist Paul Rincon shares some of his favourite multiverse movies.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
For the Christmas Special 2023 Jo welcomes back Faith Douglas, who is the author of The Nature Remedy and the curator of Thorp Perrow Arboretum. They conclude their series celebrating each season, and focus on Winter.
They talk about folklore associated with the Winter Solstice, what we can be doing in the garden, how to embrace this time of year, Christmas trees and how Faith celebrates the festive season.
Plus Jo visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to find out what a Tudor Christmas was like, including the kissing bough and other greenery that would have decorated the home.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 164 Dr Emma Yhnell returns to myth bust stories and topics relating to neuroscience. Emma is a senior lecturer at Cardiff University and a science communicator. Jo and Emma discuss the possibility of the use of AI in brain surgery, whether you can rewire your brain and how to reduce stress at Christmas.
Jo also welcomes back Dr Jamie Gallagher, who is a science communicator, public engagement trainer and chemist. He returns to share another story from the Periodic Table, and this time it's one of the most abundant elements on Earth.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Mark Thompson in episode 163. Mark is an astronomy, science & sleep broadcaster and author. He tells Jo how a challenge over two years ago has led to a passion for communicating why sleep is so important for our health.
Mark also talks about his new podcast and theatre show, tells us what we can enjoy looking at in the night sky this winter and why he loves Christmas so much.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to find out about a nocturnal creature - the UK's largest bat.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 162 Jo's special guest is Lyndsey Fineran, who is the Artistic Director of the Auckland Writers Festival | Waituhi O Tāmaki. She talks about her love of books and travel, the ten plus years she worked at Cheltenham Literature Festival and why she recently moved to New Zealand for her new role. Plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also finds out the story of a hoard of coins found in Pontefract Museum in Yorkshire.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 161 is Dr Katerina Kaouri, who is Associate Professor at the School of Mathematics at Cardiff University and also Director for Impact & Engagement at the department.
She talks about mathematical modelling and how it can be applied to real life challenges, like sonic booms and biology. She also shares her passion for science communication and how she has incorporated animation into it. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Royal Pharmaceutical Society Museum in London, to find out about the part poisons played in pharmacy history and the connection between one particular poison and sport.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In a milestone episode 160, Jo's special guest is Gareth Russell, who is a historian, author and broadcaster. He talks about his passion for his subject and his books including 'The Palace' which tells the story of Hampton Court Palace. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to find out what items would have been used for dining in Tudor times.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 159 is writer Rachel Marks from Stroud, who talks about her novels, including her latest book 'One December Day'. She also discusses her narrative style and inspiration behind her work. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud, where she finds out the story of part of a dinosaur, which it turns out isn't what people originally thought it was.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 158 Jo welcomes back Dr Jonny Brooks-Bartlett, who is a senior machine learning engineer at Spotify, to do some more myth busting. He discusses topics relating to data science, artificial intelligence and machine learning, including generative AI, applications of AI in human biology and the Digital Services Act.
Jo also visits the museum of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society in London for the first time, and finds out the story behind throat pastilles of the past that would be surprising to us today.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 157 is Alom Shaha, who is a science teacher, dad and writer. He returns to the podcast to talk about his latest book 'Why Don't Things Fall Up', which answers science questions like why the sky is blue and if we really are all made of stars.
Jo also welcomes back Dr Jamie Gallagher, who is a science communicator, public engagement trainer and chemist. He returns to share another story from the Periodic Table, and this time it's the heaviest element that can be made inside a star.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 156 Jo's special guest is Dr Simon Fryer, who is a senior lecturer in sport and exercise physiology at the University of Gloucestershire. He talks about how a love of climbing led him into this career and discusses some of his research, especially into sedentary behaviour. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives to find out the story of steamships built in Brimscombe, near Stroud.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
To celebrate the three year anniversary of the podcast, Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks, to explore science fiction cinema. In episode 155 another special guest shares their Top Ten science fiction films.
The next person to do this is Corey Brotherson, a writer, editor and creative consultant who works across a variety of industries including video gaming and comic books.
His Top Ten features themes such as time travel and includes Donnie Darko, Inception and a double bill at number one. Plus he reveals his guilty pleasure when it comes to science fiction cinema.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 154 Jo welcomes back Paul Rincon, who is science commissioning editor for The Conversation. Paul returns to discuss space stories that have been in the news recently. Topics include India's landing on the Moon, space tourism and the Osiris-Rex mission returning from asteroid Bennu.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives to uncover an aviation story from history.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Faith Douglas who is the curator of Thorp Perrow Arboretum and the author of The Nature Remedy. They continue their series celebrating each season, and focus on Autumn.
They talk about folklore associated with this time of year, what to harvest and plant, why leaves change colour and how to embrace change in our own lives.
Plus Jo finds out why liquorice has been so important in Pontefract, and learns the story of Pontefract Cakes at Pontefract Museum.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 152 Jo's special guest is author Jane Bailey who returns to the podcast to talk about her latest novel 'Stay'. Jane reveals why she chose the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic lockdown as the backdrop to the thriller. In it a young woman accepts a lift from strangers and ends up at their Gloucestershire home, but will they let her leave? Plus Jane explains why folk songs feature in the book.
Jo also welcomes back pharmacy historian Briony Hudson, who is the director of Amersham Museum. She shares the story of an object there, that isn't what it appears to be from the outside.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks, to explore science fiction cinema. Episode 151 sees the return of the occasional series where a special guest shares their Top Ten science fiction films.
The next person to do this is Paul Scott, former manager of the Cheltenham Playhouse, and some of his favourites include a Star Wars & a Star Trek film. Plus he reveals his guilty pleasure when it comes to science fiction cinema.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo celebrates a milestone 150th episode of the podcast.
Her special guest is imaging specialist Andy Saunders, author of 'Apollo Remastered'. He tells Jo about his passion for photography and space, and how he painstakingly digitally remastered thousands of images from scans of original NASA films from the Apollo era. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives to find out the story of an accounts roll for Gloucester Castle from the 13th century.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 149 Jo's special guest is freelance writer and editor Liz Bell, who is also the founder of the ZIG/ZAG Project. She talks about her background in science communication, wildlife TV production and love of insects, as well as her passion for poetry, moving to the Forest of Dean and how she's explored her own neurodivergence. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also welcomes back historian Dr Roger Deeks, this time to share the story of a historic aircraft and its links to the Forest of Dean.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 148 is author Lauren Beukes. She talks about her books including The Shining Girls, which is now a TV series, and the award-winning Zoo City. She also discusses her new book Bridge, which delves into multiverses. Plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also welcomes back Dr Jamie Gallagher, who is a science communicator, public engagement trainer and chemist. He shares another story from the Periodic Table - the element that really frightens Jamie.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Dr Emma Yhnell in episode 147, to do some more myth busting on neuroscience. Emma is a senior lecturer at Cardiff University and a science communicator. In this edition topics discussed include brain fog, naps and an Alzheimer's Disease drug trial.
Jo also finds out the story behind a walking cane belonging to a physician from the 1700s, at the Royal College of Physicians Museum in London.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 146 is Dr Shane Horgan, who is a criminology lecturer at Edinburgh Napier University & Programme Leader for the Policing & Criminology degree. He talks about his career and research into cyber security and more recently into hacking. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also welcomes back pharmacy historian Briony Hudson, to find out the story of a Victorian pill machine, that's from the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 145 Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks. In a departure from science fiction cinema, they discuss two space documentary films.
The first is 'Apollo 11' (2019), which uses archival footage of the first Moon landing in 1969. The second is 'The Farthest' (2017), which tells the story of the Voyager mission that launched in 1977, to visit Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 144 is Rebecca Fogg, author of the book 'Beautiful Trauma: A Journey of Discovery in Science and Healing'. Rebecca shares with Jo the story of a serious hand injury that she sustained, and the science behind her recovery. Plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also finds out the story behind a pipe and inhaler at the Royal College of Physicians Museum in London, which have been re-imagined in the 'Unfamiliar' exhibition.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 143 Jo welcomes back Professor Adam Hart, from the University of Gloucestershire, to do some myth busting. This time they are exploring the subject of predators, in particular those that view humans as prey.
They talk about Adam's new book 'The Deadly Balance' and explore the issues and possible solutions for both humans and animals who have to live alongside one another. This includes some descriptions of predator attacks.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to learn about a different sort of predator - a sparrowhawk.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 142 Jo welcomes back crime writer and TV presenter Jackie Kabler. She talks about her latest book 'The Vanishing Of Class 3B', as well as how she plans her books and comes up with character names.
There's also a mystery element to explore with science communicator and public engagement trainer Dr Jamie Gallagher.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 141 is Dr Stewart Carswell who is a poet with a PhD in physics. He talks about quantum computing, how the Forest of Dean has influenced his poetry, especially the collection 'Earthworks', and he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to learn about John Moore's love of woodlands and also about dendrochronology - the scientific method of dating tree rings.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo marks the Summer Solstice with Faith Douglas who is the curator of Thorp Perrow Arboretum and the author of The Nature Remedy. They talk about the ways the event is celebrated, what plants we can grow in the garden at this time of year and how to make the most of the extra daylight.
Plus Jo visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story of a bird's nest made by a blackbird in a house in 1911.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guests in episode 139 are illustrator and author James Mayhew, along with artist Toto who is also married to James. They talk about their collaboration on the picture book 'The Frog's Kiss' and why they wanted to create this story. Plus Toto answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to learn about another amphibian - a toad.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 138 Jo is joined by science journalist Paul Rincon, for a new feature where they discuss space stories that have been in the news recently. Topics include the Artemis mission back to the Moon, missions to Jupiter and how space exploration is funded.
Jo also finds out the story behind an inhaler at the Royal College of Physicians Museum in London, which has been re-imagined in the 'Unfamiliar' exhibition.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 137 is science communicator Phil Bell-Young, who talks about his background in marine biology, how he came to create & perform science shows and his love for crochet and magic. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story of a 3D replica of a 187 million year old fish.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 136 Jo is joined by Prof Jo Verran who is Emeritus Professor of Microbiology at Manchester Metropolitan University and author Sarah Franklin who is also a Senior Lecturer at Oxford International Centre for Publishing.
Jo Verran runs the Bad Bugs Book Club where infectious diseases form part of the plot and Sarah's recent book 'How To Belong' features the condition cataplexy, so they discuss bringing science into literary fiction.
Plus Jo pays a visits to Amersham Museum in Buckinghamshire to meet director Briony Hudson, who shares another story from medical history, relating to an object in the collection.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks in episode 135, to explore science fiction cinema. This time the focus is on new releases in the next 12 months, including Dune: Part Two, Oppenheimer and The Flash.
Plus science journalist Paul Rincon reveals the forthcoming science fiction films he's looking forward to.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 134 is Trent Burton who is the co-creator and lead producer of the Cosmic Shambles Network. He talks about how the team brings together science, comedy, music and more in live shows, podcasts and films. He also discusses the new documentary feature film 'Rapid Motion Through Space' and he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also finds out the story of a painting of Pontefract Castle, now found in Pontefract Museum in West Yorkshire, that once belonged to King Charles I, and why the real castle is now in ruins.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 133 Jo's special guest is Theo Deproost, who is a fine art photographer based in Stroud. He talks about his practice and his collaboration with museums including the Museum in the Park in Stroud and he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Theo's latest exhibition is called 'Unfamiliar' which is at the Royal College of Physicians Museum in London, so he talks about some of the objects featured, plus Lowri Jones from the museum shares the story of one with Jo.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 132 is Dr Rebecca Nesbit, who is an ecologist and author. She talks about her research, interest in conversation and her book 'Tickets For The Ark'. Plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Grant Museum of Zoology at UCL in London to find out the story behind a collection of butterflies and the woman the species is named after.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 131 Jo welcomes back philosopher and sensory scientist Professor Barry Smith from the Centre for the Study of the Senses at the University of London. Barry talks about his recent research into loss of smell, the importance of this sense when it comes to our enjoyment of food and gets Jo to do some smell tests.
Jo also welcomes back science communicator & public engagement trainer Dr Jamie Gallagher, to share another story from the Periodic Table. This time Jamie reveals the part certain elements play in the creation of precious gems.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks, to explore science fiction cinema, in a milestone episode 130. They begin a brand new series where a special guest shares their Top Ten science fiction films.
The first person to do this is science journalist Paul Rincon, and some of his favourites include Contact, Interstellar and Aliens.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 129 is Paul Scott, former manager of the Cheltenham Playhouse. He talks about his passion for theatre, film and heritage, including the fascinating history of the Playhouse. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives to find out the story of some sketch books, dating back to the Crimean War.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 128 Jo welcomes back science communicator Dr Emma Yhnell, who is a senior lecturer at Cardiff University, to do more myth busting on neuroscience. They look at some recent news stories including dreaming in different languages and they focus on dementia, including an event Jo chaired at the Norwich Science Festival.
Plus Jo visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud, to find out the story of a Victorian 'rocking bath', that was designed to give the sensation of bathing in the river.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo marks the start of astronomical Spring with Faith Douglas who is the curator of Thorp Perrow Arboretum and the author of The Nature Remedy. They talk about the flowers and trees coming back to life, what to plant in the garden and how the Spring Equinox is celebrated.
Plus Jo finds out the story of a collection of pottery at Pontefract Museum which is older than first thought.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 126 Jo's special guest is Spencer McPherson, the Chief Creative Officer at Still Moving, who talks about his passion for photography, shares stories of some of famous faces he's taken the portrait of and he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also welcomes back science communicator & public engagement trainer Dr Jamie Gallagher, to share another story from the Periodic Table. This time Jamie reveals the controversy around the discovery of oxygen.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo marks International Women's Day in episode 125. Her special guest is Dr Victoria Kinkaid, who talks about her career in medicine, interest in women's health, empowerment and feminism and her own podcast Virago Voices. Topics discussed include reproductive health, tackling period stigma, FGM, domestic violence and smear tests. And she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Plus pharmacy historian Briony Hudson shares the story of a photograph in her own collection, of trainee female pharmacists and dispensers from the 1930s.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 124 Jo welcomes back Professor Adam Hart, from the University of Gloucestershire, to do some myth busting. This time they are exploring the subject of cats.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to learn about an item in the natural history collection that was predated by a cat.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks in episode 123, to explore science fiction cinema. This time the focus is on films that feature robots, computers and artificial intelligence. Films discussed include WALL-E, Ex Machina, The Iron Giant and A.I. Artificial Intelligence.
Plus John Putley, Paul Rincon & Sue Nelson share their favourite robot movies.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 122 Jo's special guest is Juliet Rosenfeld, a psychotherapist and author. She talks about her profession, as well as her book 'The State of Disbelief: A Therapist's Story of Love, Death and Mourning', and her personal experience of bereavement.
Jo also chats to pharmacy historian Briony Hudson about an intricate medicine chest now found at the Royal Pharmaceutical Society Museum.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 121 is Corey Brotherson, who is a writer, editor and creative consultant. He talks about his work across a variety of industries, in particular video gaming and comic books. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to find why dice games were so popular in Tudor times.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 120 Jo's special guest is Stefan Gates, who is a gastronaut, science communicator, author and presenter. He talks about some of the quirky science of dogs, cats and human bodies, in his books 'Dogology', 'Catology' and 'Rude Science'.
Jo also visits the Grant Museum of Zoology at UCL in London to find out the story of an interesting bone belonging to a walrus.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 119 is Professor Moshe Bar, who talks about his career in cognitive neuroscience and research, as well as his book 'Mindwandering'. He explains what mindwandering is and the benefits of it. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives to find out the story behind a map of Cheltenham made after World War Two.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 118 Jo's special guest is Melanie Backe-Hansen, otherwise known as the House Historian. She talks about her passion for researching the history of houses, her books like 'Historic Streets and Squares' and work on TV shows including 'A House Through Time'. Plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury, to learn more about the Merchant's House which dates back to 1410 and an item that would have been used to try to reduce the risk of fire, in a building with no chimney.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guests in episode 117 are pharmacy historian and director of Amersham Museum Briony Hudson, along with illustrator and graphic designer Nick Taylor. They talk about the book they've created 'Medicine: A Magnificently Illustrated History'.
Briony also tells the stories behind some historical medicine chests and Nick discusses his illustration work. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 116 Jo is joined again by Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks, to explore science fiction cinema. They conclude a two part special looking at superhero films and their characters, with a focus on D.C. creations. Characters discussed include Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman.
Plus Paul Rincon & Sue Nelson share their favourite superhero movies from D.C.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks in episode 115, to explore science fiction cinema. They begin a two part special looking at superhero films and their characters, with a focus on Marvel creations. Characters discussed include Thor, Iron Man, Spider-Man and Captain America.
Plus Sue Nelson & Paul Rincon share their favourite superhero movies.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
It's the Christmas Special 2022 of the podcast and Jo has three pairs of guests talking about their festive traditions.
Author & illustrator James Mayhew and broadcaster & author Zeb Soanes talk about their collaboration on Gaspard The Fox books, including 'Gaspard's Christmas' and the musical premiere.
Horticultural broadcaster & author Ellen Mary and Faith Douglas who is an author & curator of Thorp Perrow Arboretum, discuss their love of nature, trees and the winter solstice.
And science communicator Dr Emma Yhnell who is Senior Lecturer at Cardiff University, joins singer songwriter Findlay Napier from the Story Song Scientists to bust some neuroscience myths, and Fin shares a song inspired by this topic. (Demo by permission of Findlay Napier).
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 113 Jo welcomes back Professor Adam Hart, from the University of Gloucestershire, to do some myth busting. This time they are exploring the subject of invasive species from plants to ants.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives and meets one of the team in the collections care department, to learn about how items are preserved and conserved.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 112 is Cindy Forde, who is the founder of the education platform Planetari and the author of the book 'Bright New World'. She talks about her passion for storytelling, sustainability and finding solutions to climate change. Plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story behind a famous and revolutionary bicycle.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 111 Jo's special guest is Dr Sean Wensley, a senior vet and author of 'Through A Vet's Eyes: How We Can All Choose a Better Life for Animals'. Sean talks about his career, research, animal welfare and his love of nature. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Grant Museum of Zoology at UCL in London to find out the story of the Thylacine, otherwise known as a Tasmanian tiger, which went extinct in the 1930s.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 110 is anthologist Allie Esiri, who talks about her passion for poetry, including collections like 'A Poet For Every Day Of The Year' and 'Shakespeare For Every Day Of The Year'. Plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Dean Heritage Centre in the Forest of Dean to find out the story behind three books that have recently been added to the collection, including a rare poetry book by FW Harvey.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 109 Jo welcomes back science communicator Dr Emma Yhnell, who is a senior lecturer at Cardiff University, to do more myth busting on neuroscience. They look at some recent news stories including lab grown brain cells and also explore the different regions of the brain.
Plus Jo visits Gloucestershire Archives to find out about a selection of aerial photographs of the county, taken before the Second World War.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks in episode 108. This time they explore science fiction TV series including Dr Who, Star Trek, Babylon 5, The Twilight Zone, Battlestar Galactica, The Expanse and many more.
Plus Dr Jamie Gallagher, Sue Nelson, John Putley & Paul Rincon share their favourite science fiction TV shows.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 107 is Dr Elizabeth Mills, a marine biologist and science communicator. She talks about her passion for the sea, her research and combining arts and science with her channel Marine Mumbles. Plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Grant Museum of Zoology at UCL in London to find out the story of a squid, which is actually a piece of artwork made from glass.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 106 Jo's special guest is Alison Neil, an actress and writer based in the Forest of Dean. She talks about her theatrical career including one person plays about women from history including Mary Anning and Marie Curie. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also finds out the story of a collection of items at the Museum in the Park in Stroud made from a special plastic.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 105 is Dr Simon Morden, a science fiction writer and planetary geologist who also talks about his first non-fiction book 'The Red Planet: A Natural History of Mars'. Plus he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Science communicator & public engagement trainer Dr Jamie Gallagher is back with another story from the Periodic Table - two related elements that played their part in history.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 104 Jo's special guest is writer Jane Bailey from Cheltenham. She talks about her novels including the latest 'Sorry Isn't Good Enough.' Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also finds out the story of a replica Tudor football at the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks for this special two year anniversary special. They create a virtual science fiction film festival with a 1980s theme plus a fringe festival with other classics.
Features the choices of: Dr Jessica Barker, Dr Jonny Brooks-Bartlett, Dr Daisy Dunn, FC, Dr Helen Fry, Dr Jamie Gallagher, Will Gater, Owen Gower, Professor Adam Hart, Megan Henwood, Briony Hudson, James Mayhew, Findlay Napier, Sue Nelson, Paul Rincon, Paul Scott, Professor Barry Smith, Professor Jo Verran and Dr Emma Yhnell.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 102 Jo's special guest is Jackie Kabler, a TV presenter and crime writer. She talks about her varied career, love of running and novels including the latest 'The Murder List.' Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the home of Dr Edward Jenner in Berkeley to find out the story of a bust, relating to his time in Cheltenham.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 102 Jo's special guest is Jackie Kabler, a TV presenter and crime writer. She talks about her varied career, love of running and novels including the latest 'The Murder List.' Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the home of Dr Edward Jenner in Berkeley to find out the story of a bust, relating to his time in Cheltenham.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo is joined in episode 101 of the podcast by playwright Lou Beckett who is based in the Cotswolds. She talks about her varied career as well as her radio plays 'Bletchley Girls' and 'Forbidden Music', and she answers the Quick Six.
Plus Jo visits Gloucestershire Archives to find out the story of a recipe book dating back over 200 years.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo is joined in episode 101 of the podcast by playwright Lou Beckett who is based in the Cotswolds. She talks about her varied career as well as her radio plays 'Bletchley Girls' and 'Forbidden Music', and she answers the Quick Six.
Plus Jo visits Gloucestershire Archives to find out the story of a recipe book dating back over 200 years.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
It's the 100th episode of the award-winning podcast, that is the space for arts and science. In this special feature length extended episode Jo welcomes back a host of guests, and topics discussed include myth busting, sensory science, illustration, history, microbiology, the Periodic Table, science fiction films and space.
Guests featured: Professor Adam Hart, Dr Emma Yhnell, James Mayhew, Dr Jamie Gallagher, Dr Daisy Dunn, Dr Helen Fry, Dr Jonny Brooks-Bartlett, FC, Dr Jessica Barker, Will Gater, Sue Nelson, Professor Barry Smith, Briony Hudson, Owen Gower, Professor Jo Verran, Findlay Napier, Megan Henwood, Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
It's the 100th episode of the award-winning podcast, that is the space for arts and science. In this special feature length extended episode Jo welcomes back a host of guests, and topics discussed include myth busting, sensory science, illustration, history, microbiology, the Periodic Table, science fiction films and space.
Guests featured: Professor Adam Hart, Dr Emma Yhnell, James Mayhew, Dr Jamie Gallagher, Dr Daisy Dunn, Dr Helen Fry, Dr Jonny Brooks-Bartlett, FC, Dr Jessica Barker, Will Gater, Sue Nelson, Professor Barry Smith, Briony Hudson, Owen Gower, Professor Jo Verran, Findlay Napier, Megan Henwood, Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
A preview of the 100th episode of the award-winning podcast that is the space for arts and science.
Guests featured: Dr Emma Yhnell, Dr Daisy Dunn, Dr Helen Fry, Professor Adam Hart, Sue Nelson, Will Gater, Professor Barry Smith, Dr Jamie Gallagher, Professor Jo Verran, Findlay Napier, Megan Henwood, Jeff Downes, Graham O'Dwyer, Dr Jonny Brooks-Bartlett, FC, Dr Jessica Barker, Briony Hudson, Owen Gower and James Mayhew.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
A preview of the 100th episode of the award-winning podcast that is the space for arts and science.
Guests featured: Dr Emma Yhnell, Dr Daisy Dunn, Dr Helen Fry, Professor Adam Hart, Sue Nelson, Will Gater, Professor Barry Smith, Dr Jamie Gallagher, Professor Jo Verran, Findlay Napier, Megan Henwood, Jeff Downes, Graham O'Dwyer, Dr Jonny Brooks-Bartlett, FC, Dr Jessica Barker, Briony Hudson, Owen Gower and James Mayhew.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks in episode 99. We conclude the series looking at science fiction films decade by decade, this time it's the first few years of the 2020s. They also look to the future of science fiction cinema.
Plus Professor Jo Verran and Paul Rincon share their favourite science fiction films from the last few years.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo is joined in episode 98 of the podcast by Anna Saunders who is a founder and director of the Cheltenham Poetry Festival. She talks about the event, what inspires her own poetry and she answers the Quick Six.
Plus pharmacy historian Briony Hudson shares the story of a rare pill tile found at the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries in London.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 97 Jo is joined by artist and film maker Robyn Woolston, who talks about her work, passion for her subject and projects involving archives and those about mental health and the environment. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives to find out the story behind a sketch book dating back over a hundred years.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 96 is Raechel Kelly who is an independent sustainability consultant and also runs Planet Cheltenham. She talks about her passion for community based solutions to things like climate change. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also finds out the story behind a ballot box at Pontefract Museum that was used in the first secret ballot in England 150 years ago - on 15 August 1872.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 95 Jo is joined by science journalist Paul Rincon from London, who talks about his career, including interviewing astronauts and going to rocket launches. Plus he shares his love of science fiction films and answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the home of Dr Edward Jenner in Berkeley to find out about a special society that was set up in his name.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 94 is science communicator and writer Sophie Pavelle, from Devon. Sophie talks about her passion for nature and storytelling, and in particular her debut book 'Forget Me Not'. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to learn about a plague doctor mask.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 94 is science communicator and writer Sophie Pavelle, from Devon. Sophie talks about her passion for nature and storytelling, and in particular her debut book 'Forget Me Not'. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to learn about a plague doctor mask.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 93 Jo is joined by Stroud author Melanie Golding who talks about her novels 'Little Darlings' and 'The Replacement', and the way she combines crime thrillers with folklore. Melanie also answers Jo's Quick Six.
Plus Jo visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story behind the cross cutter which it is thought inspired the invention of Budding's lawnmower.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks in episode 92. We continue the series looking at science fiction films decade by decade, this time it's the 2010s.
Films discussed include Arrival, Interstellar, Looper and Inception. Plus Sue Nelson, Paul Rincon, Professor Jo Verran and John Putley share their favourite science fiction films from this decade.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo is joined in episode 91 of the podcast by Professor Adam Hart from the University of Gloucestershire, who is doing more myth busting - on monkeypox, living with predators, and energy, including renewable sources.
Plus pharmacy historian Briony Hudson shares the story of a fire helmet found at the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries in London.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
It's a milestone edition of the award-winning podcast - episode 90. Jo's special guest is writer, broadcaster, Oxford Academic and President of the Gloucester History Festival, Dr Janina Ramirez. Janina talks about her career, latest book 'Femina', passion for art and history, plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives to find out the story behind a selection of records and pamphlets that show how people lived before the internet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 89 Jo is joined by Anna Bailey, author of the novel 'Tall Bones', who talks about the inspiration behind it and the importance of representation in the characters. Anna also answers Jo's Quick Six.
Plus science communicator & public engagement trainer Dr Jamie Gallagher is back with another story from the Periodic Table - the only element to have been discovered twice.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 88 is theatre maker and producer Rachel Adams, who is based in the Forest of Dean. She talks about her work including a film on the Mushets, as well as 'Passing The Baton'. She also shares her love of yoga and answers the Quick Six.
Jo also finds out the story of a watch found in Wakefield Museum in West Yorkshire, which was stopped at a specific time in World War I.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 87 Jo welcomes back Dr Emma Yhnell, a neuroscientist and senior lecturer at Cardiff University. Emma is myth busting neuroscience and biomedical topics, and talks about exam stress, trusting experts and the size of our brains.
Jo also learns about an item that's found in the collection of the Royal College of Physicians Museum in London, with a label that doesn't quite tell the whole story.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 86 Jo's special guest is Dr Brenna Hassett, an archaeologist, anthropologist and researcher at University College London. She's also an author and discusses her latest book 'Growing Up Human: The Evolution of Childhood.' Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives to trace the story of one woman through the census.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks in episode 85. We continue the series looking at science fiction films decade by decade, this time it's the 2000s.
Films discussed include Avatar, District 9, Donnie Darko and Minority Report. Plus Paul Rincon, Professor Jo Verran and Paul Scott share their favourite science fiction films from this decade.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 84 Jo's special guest is writer Cheryl Burman, who is based in the Forest of Dean. She talks about her love of the area and how it's inspired her work, as well as her early life in Australia, and she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the home of Dr Edward Jenner in Berkeley, to find out the story behind a book that has a surprise at the end.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 83 is Jules Howard, a zoology correspondent and writer. He talks about his career highlights such as working on a frog helpline, discusses his latest book 'Wonderdog' and answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also finds out the story of a stethoscope found in the collection of the Royal College of Physicians Museum in London.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 82 Jo is joined by Dr Jessica Barker and FC who are cyber security experts. They're back to do some myth busting on topics like deep fakes and the dark web.
Jo also chats to pharmacy historian Briony Hudson about a painting found in the Royal Pharmaceutical Society that tells a story of friendship.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 81 is Dr Kathryn Harkup who is a former chemist and now a writer. She talks about her work in particular her book 'Death By Shakespeare', looking at the science behind the Bard's work, plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to find out the story behind an object used by midwives in Tudor times.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
It's a milestone edition of the podcast - episode 80. Jo's special guests are singer-songwriters Megan Henwood & Findlay Napier, who are The Story Song Scientists. They talk about the science stories that have inspired their music, their live shows and they answer the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out of the story of a piano in the collection.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Jo is joined in episode 79 of the podcast by Professor Adam Hart from the University of Gloucestershire, who is busting myths around trees, including their biology, diseases and carbon capture.
Jo also visits the Forest of Dean with historian Dr Roger Deeks to find out the story of a distillation works that used the trees over a hundred years ago but has now been reclaimed by nature.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 78 Jo's special guest is Dr Rachel Sumner from Cardiff Metropolitan University who talks about her work as a psychobiologist, including her research with the Covid-19 Heroes Project. Plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the home of Dr Jenner in Berkeley to learn about a recent acquisition - the 'I've had my Covid Vaccine' stickers.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks in episode 77. We continue the series looking at science fiction films decade by decade, moving into 1990s.
Films discussed include Armageddon, Contact & Jurassic Park, plus more from the Star Wars and Star Trek franchises. Sue Nelson, Dr Jamie Gallagher, Paul Rincon, Paul Scott and John Putley also share their favourite science fiction films from this decade.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Jo's special guest in episode 76 is data scientist & machine learning engineer Dr Jonny Brooks-Bartlett. He returns to do some myth busting on things like ethical artificial intelligence and the quantum apocalypse.
Plus science communicator & public engagement trainer Dr Jamie Gallagher is back with another story from the Periodic Table - this time it's a rather beautiful element.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 75 Jo's special guest is Ellen Mary, a gardener, horticultural broadcaster and author of 'The Joy of Gardening: The Everyday Zen of Mowing the Lawn'. She talks about her passion for her subject, the well-being benefits of gardening and she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story behind the most important invention in the town - the lawnmower.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Jo's special guest in episode 74 is Dr Simone Cuff who is a translational immunologist at Cardiff University. She talks about her passion for immunology, as we learn a lot about the immune system. Plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also finds out the story of a set of anatomical tables found in the collection of the Royal College of Physicians Museum in London.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 73 Jo's special guests are pharmacy historian & freelance museum curator Briony Hudson and Owen Gower, the General Manager of the Jenner Trust which looks after Dr Jenner's House in Berkeley.
They discuss their careers working in museums and with collections and also reveal their favourite objects. Plus they answer Jo's Quick Six.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks in episode 72. We continue the series looking at science fiction films decade by decade, moving into 1980s.
Films discussed include ET, The Terminator, Aliens & Blade Runner, plus big franchise film series like Star Wars and Star Trek. Dr Jamie Gallagher, Paul Rincon, Paul Scott and John Putley also share their favourite science fiction films from this decade.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
In episode 71 Jo is joined by lecturer and science communicator Dr Emma Yhnell from Cardiff University, who is myth busting neuroscience and biomedical topics. She talks about the representation of scientists, women in STEM and she previews the 2022 Cardiff Science Festival.
Jo also finds out the story of a diary that's found in the collection of the Royal College of Physicians Museum in London.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
It's a milestone edition of the podcast - episode 70. Jo's special guest is Imperial College Research Fellow Dr Jess Wade, who talks about physics, material science and nano technology, as well as her passion for public engagement. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the stores of the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out of the story behind two oak paddles, from a mill dating back more than a thousand years.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Jo's special guest in episode 69 is Professor Liz Stokoe from Loughborough University who talks about her career and research into conversation analysis, and she busts some communication myths. Plus she takes on the Quick Six.
Jo also finds out the story of a collection of photographs by Jack Hulme in Castleford Museum in West Yorkshire.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 68 Jo's special guest is science presenter and children's science writer Dr Sarah Bearchell who talks about her passion for sharing science, making her workshops accessible and inclusive and she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also returns to the object based learning lab at University College London to learn about one of the earliest diagnostic X-Ray images to be taken.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 67 is illustrator and science communicator Hana Ayoob who talks about her career including programming science festivals and her passion for combining arts and science in her designs, workshops, comedy and events. Plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also visits the science collection at University College London to learn about a bottle from the 19th century that tells us about the discovery of helium.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In the first edition of 2022, episode 66, Jo's special guest is physicist and science journalist Laurie Winkless who is based in New Zealand. She talks about her passion for science and storytelling, including her time at NASA and her latest book 'Sticky: The Secret Science of Surfaces'. Plus she takes on the Quick Six.
Jo also finds out the story of a diary from 1918 found in Wakefield Museum in West Yorkshire.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
It's the 2021 New Year special of the podcast and Jo has invited back six pairs of guests, to discuss New Year traditions, as well as their review of 2021 and hopes for 2022.
The guests are (in order of appearance): Professor Barry Smith & James Mayhew; Briony Hudson & Owen Gower; Dr Emma Yhnell & Rebecca Ellis; Professor Jo Verran & Sarah Franklin; Dr Helen Fry & Mark Thompson; and Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
It's the 2021 Christmas special of the podcast and Jo has invited back six pairs of guests, many appearing together for the first time. They discuss festive food, films, fun and much more.
The guests are (in order of appearance): Professor Jo Verran & Sarah Franklin; Dr Emma Yhnell & Rebecca Ellis; Dr Helen Fry & Mark Thompson; Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer; Briony Hudson & Owen Gower; Professor Barry Smith & James Mayhew.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 63 is biologist and writer Dr Andrew Steele who talks about his book 'Ageless: The New Science of Getting Older Without Getting Old', his passion for this subject and love of space too. Plus he answers the Quick Six.
Jo also welcomes back pharmacy historian Briony Hudson, to talk about a blood mixture which is now in the Royal Pharmaceutical Society Museum.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo is joined in episode 62 of the podcast by Professor Adam Hart from the University of Gloucestershire, who is myth busting climate change and looking at ways to reduce our carbon footprint.
Jo also visits Dr Jenner's House in Berkeley to tell the story of an item that reveals another of Edward Jenner's interests - poetry.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 61 Jo's special guest is historian and writer Lucy Jane Santos who specialises in leisure, health and beauty. She talks about her passion for combining history and science and discusses her book 'Half Lives: The Unlikely History of Radium' Plus she goes on a virtual journey in time and space in Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also welcomes back science communicator Dr Jamie Gallagher with another story from the Periodic Table - this time it's aluminium.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In her milestone 60th episode Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks. We continue the series looking at science fiction films decade by decade, moving into 1970s.
Films discussed include Star Wars, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Superman, Alien and Rollerball. Plus Steve Knibbs, Paul Rincon and Paul Scott share their favourite science fiction films from this decade.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Jo's special guest in episode 59 is archaeologist and writer Dr Rebecca Wragg Sykes, who talks about her career, passion for her subject especially Neanderthals, her book 'Kindred' and she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the geology stores of the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story of some of the dinosaur remains there.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
In episode 58 Jo's special guest is Darren Lewington from Gloucestershire who has a lifelong passion for aviation, and now turns parts of planes into works of art and pieces of furniture in Staverton. Plus he takes on the Quick Six questions.
Jo also finds out the story behind a replica of a Hawker Hurricane which is found at the Jet Age Museum in Staverton, which Darren has also been involved with.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 57 is presenter, writer and gastronaut Stefan Gates, who shares his passion for food, especially the science behind it. He also talks about his career, books and he answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the geology stores of the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story behind a mummified cat.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
In episode 56 Jo explores the lives and legacy of two pioneers of iron and steel production - father and son, David and Robert Mushet who did many of their experiments in the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire in the 19th century. Historian Dr Roger Deeks is Jo's guide and explains why the Mushets were internationally important.
Jo also finds out about some items relating to the Mushet family that are now in the collection at the Dean Heritage Centre in Lower Soudley.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 55 is microbiologist Dr Freya Harrison, who is based at the University of Warwick. She talks about her career, including research into early medieval medicine that could have a real world application today. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also welcomes back pharmacy historian Briony Hudson, to talk about mandrake, with images that are now part of the Wellcome Collection.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 54 Jo's special guest is writer and teacher Alom Shaha, who talks about his career, passion for making science accessible to all and his books including 'Mr Shaha's Marvellous Machines'. Plus he takes on the Quick Six.
Jo also finds out the story of a marble relating to a unique event, found at the Castleford Museum in West Yorkshire.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
It's the one year anniversary special of the podcast and Jo has invited back a number of guests to her virtual birthday party. Each of them also chooses a virtual guest, living or not, as their plus one.
The guests are (in order of appearance): Christopher Edge, Dr Emma Yhnell, Dr Daisy Dunn, Professor Jo Verran, Mark McCaughrean & Alexander Milas, Briony Hudson & Owen Gower, Dr Jonny Brooks-Bartlett, Professor Adam Hart, Dr Jackie Bell, James Mayhew, Isabel Thomas, Professor Barry Smith, Shar Daws, Dr Jamie Gallagher, Dr Helen Fry, Will Gater, Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer, Kerry Scorah & Richard Parsons and Rebecca Ellis.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 52 Jo's special guest is science communicator and writer Dr Natalie Starkey, who talks about her career, passion for volcanoes and space, including her latest book 'Fire and Ice', plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the archaeology stores of the Museum in the Park in Stroud to find out the story behind some Roman tiles with imprints in.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Jo is joined in episode 51 of the podcast by Professor Adam Hart from the University of Gloucestershire, who is myth busting biodiversity and why it's so important.
Jo also visits Dr Jenner's House in Berkeley to tell the story of a letter relating to the first person to receive a smallpox vaccine - James Phipps.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
It's a milestone edition of the podcast - episode 50. Jo's special guest is science writer and broadcaster Sue Nelson, who is the author of 'Wally Funk's Race For Space'. She talks about her career, passion for space and friendship with Wally, plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also catches up with Dr Jackie Bell to hear how her astronaut training is going.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks podcast for episode 49. We continue the series looking at science fiction films decade by decade, moving into 1960s.
Films discussed include 2001 A Space Odyssey, Planet of the Apes and The Time Machine. Plus James Mayhew, Sue Nelson, Paul Rincon and Paul Scott share their favourite science fiction films from this decade.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
In episode 48 of the podcast Jo's special guest is Annie Howitt, a PHD student at the University of Cambridge who discusses her research into cancer metabolism. Plus she talks about her passion for sharing science and answers the Quick Six.
Jo also finds out the story of a book that belonged to Florence Nightingale, found at the Royal College of Nursing Library and Archive.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo is joined in episode 47 of the podcast by science and comedy writer Dr Helen Pilcher, who talks about her work, in particular her recent book 'Life Changing'. Plus she answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits Dr Jenner's House in Berkeley to tell the story of a painting of some cows given to Edward Jenner by his mentor John Hunter.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 46 Jo's special guest is Dr Emily Rees Körner from the University of Leeds, who talks about her research including into the history of women in engineering. Plus she takes on the Quick Six.
Jo also finds out the story of an 18th century recipe book found at Pontefract Museum in West Yorkshire.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 45 is astronomer, broadcaster and author Mark Thompson, who talks about his passion for stargazing, career highlights, his world record attempt and he answers Jo's Quick Six.
Plus Jo visits the science collection at University College London to learn about the story behind a print from 1966 taken of the Earth and the Moon.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 44 Jo's special guest is Professor Ben Garrod who talks about his work as an evolutionary biologist, broadcaster and author, including making a TV programme with Sir David Attenborough. Plus he goes on a virtual journey in time and space in the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury and learns about an item in the natural history collection - a mole.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 43 is science writer and presenter Ginny Smith who specialises in psychology and neuroscience. She also talks about her book 'Overloaded' and answers Jo's Quick Six.
Plus Jo visits the science collection at University College London to learn about some of the bones there.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 42 Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks podcast. We begin a new series looking at science fiction films decade by decade, beginning in the 1950s.
Films discussed include Forbidden Planet, The Day The Earth Stood Still and Invasion of the Body Snatchers. Plus science writer and broadcaster Sue Nelson shares her favourite science fiction films from this decade.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Jo's special guests in episode 41 are Dr Jessica Barker and FC who are cyber security experts based in Gloucestershire. They join Jo to do some myth busting on topics like ransomware, hybrid working and discuss if your phone is really listening to you.
Plus Jo visits the science collection at University College London to uncover the story of a mini computer from 1986.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
It's a milestone for the podcast as it's episode 40 and Jo has two special guests. She is joined by Alexander Milas and Mark McCaughrean who founded Space Rocks. They talk about their passion for celebrating arts, science, music, culture and space. Plus they answer the Quick Six.
Jo also talks to actor Jason Isaacs backstage at the 2019 Space Rocks event in London.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 39 Jo's special guest is Dr Karen Aplin, an associate professor at the University of Bristol. She talks to Jo about her research and interest in space and atmospheric science, in particular weather on other planets. Plus she talks about her love of music and answers the Quick Six.
Jo also visits Dr Jenner's House in Berkeley to learn about a grape storage bottle and the story of the vines Edward Jenner grew.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 38 is writer and historian Dr Helen Fry, who talks about her work including uncovering hidden histories of intelligence operations in World War II and books like 'The Walls Have Ears' and 'M19: Escape & Evasion'. Plus she goes on a virtual journey in time and space in the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to find out the story of a gavel that belonged to John Moore in the 1920s.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 37 Jo's special guests are illustrator and author James Mayhew & writer Ian Eagleton. They talk about collaborating on a picture book called 'Nen and the Lonely Fisherman'. Plus Ian goes on a virtual journey in time and space in Jo's Quick Six.
Jo also welcomes back science communicator Dr Jamie Gallagher who has more stories from the Periodic Table and tells Jo about the special pin badges he's been making.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo is joined in episode 36 of the podcast by Professor Adam Hart from the University of Gloucestershire, who is myth busting scientific research, plus insects like bees and wasps.
Jo also visits Dr Jenner's House in Berkeley to tell the story of a piece of research by Edward Jenner into cuckoos.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 35 Jo's special guest is behavioural and data scientist Dr Pragya Agarwal who talks about her career including her books 'Sway: Unravelling Unconscious Bias' and '(M)otherhood: On the choices of being a woman'. Plus she goes on a virtual journey in time and space in the Quick Six.
Jo also welcomes back pharmacy historian Briony Hudson, to talk about a satirical cartoon depicting an apothecary shop around 1800, now part of the Wellcome Collection.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 34 is biologist and science presenter Simon Watt. He talks to Jo about his career including the Ugly Animal Preservation Society and his latest immersive theatre project The Mirror Trap. Plus he takes on the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the Museum of Gloucester to find out the story of the Birdlip Mirror.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
In episode 33 Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks podcast to shine the spotlight on another theme in science fiction films. This time it's the representation of scientists in films including titles like Frankenstein and Blade Runner, as well as biopics such as Hidden Figures and Radioactive.
Jo also chats to other guests on the podcast who give her their thoughts on some science fiction movies. Guests featured: Dallas Campbell, Jamie Gallagher, Alexander Milas and Mark McCaughrean.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
In episode 32 Jo is joined by writer and classicist Daisy Dunn, who talks about her passion for ancient history and discusses her book 'In The Shadow of Vesuvius'. Plus she takes on the Quick Six.
Jo also visits Gloucestershire Archives and learns the story behind a charter containing the seal of Elizabeth I.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
There's a mathematical theme in episode 31 as Jo's special guest is data scientist Jonny Brooks-Bartlett. He joins Jo to demystify algorithms, artificial intelligence, machine learning and much more. Plus he goes on a virtual journey in time and space in the Quick Six.
Jo also visits the John Moore Museum in Tewkesbury to find out the story behind a reckoning cloth that a Tudor merchant would have used for counting.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
It's episode 30 and in this milestone edition Jo's special guest is the person who was with her for episode 1 - TV presenter and writer Dallas Campbell, who talks to Jo about animals that have gone into space, including dogs, a cat and tortoises.
Jo also learns about the incredible, microscopic tardigrades, with Professor Adam Hart, Dr Jamie Gallagher and Will Gater.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 29 is marine biologist and writer Dr Helen Scales, who shares her passion for the deep and talks about her work including her latest book 'The Brilliant Abyss'. Plus she goes on a virtual journey in time and space in the Quick Six.
Jo also welcomes back pharmacy historian Briony Hudson, to talk about another apothecary ointment jar, that's now in the Royal Pharmaceutical Society Museum.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 28 Jo's special guest is science writer and children's author Isabel Thomas, who has written over 180 books. She talks about her work including 'Moth: An Evolution Story' and her latest book 'Exploring the Elements'. Plus she answers Jo's Quick Six.
Glasgow based science communicator Dr Jamie Gallagher also returns with another story from the Periodic Table. This time it's strontium, which is named after a place in the UK.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 27 is writer Oliver Soden, who talks about his work, in particular his book about an 18th century cat called Jeoffry who was immortalised in a famous poem. Oliver also goes on a virtual journey in time and space in the Quick Six.
Plus Jo talks to pharmacy historian Briony Hudson, about apothecary ointment jars, specifically one that's now in the Royal College of Physicians Museum.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 26 Jo is joined by Dr Emma Yhnell from Cardiff University, who is myth busting neuroscience and biomedical topics. This time it's clinical trials.
Jo also talks to PHD student Rebecca Ellis, based in Swansea, who she shares another of her science poems - on autism's myths and misconceptions. Plus she talks about World Autism Awareness Week.
And at the end of Women's History Month, Jo discovers the story of a suffragette thanks to her diaries found at Gloucestershire Archives.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 25 is astronomer and science writer Will Gater, who talks about his career, passion for stargazing and the Winchcombe meteorite. He also takes Jo on a virtual tour of the Solar System and answers the Quick Six.
Plus Glasgow based chemist and science communicator Dr Jamie Gallagher returns with some more stories from the Periodic Table, including mercury.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo shines the spotlight on theatre in episode 24 of the podcast. Her special guest is Iwan Lewis, the CEO & Artistic Director of the Barn Theatre in Cirencester. He talks about his career, passion for the Barn which is marking its third anniversary and explains how the team used innovative ways to connect with audiences in the last year. Plus he takes on the Quick Six.
Jo also brings you some her guests from previous episodes, talking in the Quick Six about their favourite theatre shows.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Episode 23 of the podcast marks International Women's Day and Women's History Month. Jo's special guest is science writer and broadcaster Dr Kat Arney, who talks about her career, science communication, latest book and she takes on the Quick Six.
Plus Jo talks to pharmacy historian Briony Hudson, about medical pioneer and suffragette Elizabeth Garrett Anderson and shares the story of a letter she sent that's now in the Royal College of Physicians Museum.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 22 is broadcaster and childen's author Zeb Soanes, who talks about his career highlights including the Gaspard The Fox books and the real life fox that inspired the stories. He also discusses the latest Gaspard adventure which is published on World Book Day. And he goes on a virtual journey in time and space in Jo's Quick Six.
Plus at the start of Women's History Month Jo is joined by pharmacy historian Briony Hudson, who tells Jo the story behind a photograph from 1911, featuring women who were pharmacists and suffragettes.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 21 Jo welcomes back Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks podcast to shine the spotlight on another theme in science fiction films. This time it's alien contact including films like Independence Day, ET, Contact and Close Encounters Of The Third Kind.
Jo also chats to some of the familiar voices and previous guests on the podcast who tell her what their favourite alien contact films are. Guests featured: Dallas Campbell, Professor Adam Hart, Dr Emma Yhnell, Dr Jamie Gallagher, Rebecca Ellis, James Mayhew and Christopher Edge.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
In a bonus edition, hear some of the best bits from guests talking about space topics from the first 20 episodes of the podcast.
Guests featured: TV presenter & writer Dallas Campbell, trainee astronaut Dr Jackie Bell, Jeff Downes & Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks podcast, author Christopher Edge and Paul Millington from the National Space Centre.
Plus some of Jo's previous guests reveal where they would like to travel to in the universe in the Quick Six feature, including Professor Adam Hart, Professor Barry Smith, Dr Emma Yhnell, Dr Jamie Gallagher, James Mayhew, Dr Jessica Barker & FC and Kerry Scorah & Richard Parsons.
And a brand new audio treat about a space themed film!
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
There's a space themed milestone episode 20 of the podcast.
Jo's special guest is Gloucestershire author Christopher Edge who writes stories inspired by science and space for children. He talks about his latest book 'Space Oddity' and takes on the Quick Six.
Plus Jo chats to Paul Millington from the National Space Centre in Leicester, which is marking its 20th anniversary in 2021.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo is joined in episode 19 of the podcast by Professor Adam Hart from the University of Gloucestershire, who is myth busting a group of mammals often misunderstood, especially in the last year - bats.
Jo also finds out the story behind a piece of furniture at Dr Jenner's House in Berkeley which helps to tell a tale of love.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 18 Jo's special guest is science communicator, public engagement trainer and chemist Dr Jamie Gallagher from Glasgow. Jamie shares more stories from the Periodic Table, with a focus on the work of Marie Curie, and he takes on the Quick Six.
Jo also chats to lecturer and science communicator Dr Emma Yhnell from Cardiff University, about the Cardiff Science Festival which is taking place online in February 2021.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 17 is a familiar voice on the podcast - Swansea based PHD student Rebecca Ellis. She shares another science poem, explains more about her research into care pathways for autistic children in Wales, and also takes on Jo's Quick Six.
Plus Jo talks to pharmacy historian Briony Hudson about an ancient remedy that was known as medicinal treacle.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 16 Jo is joined by writer Sarah Franklin, author of 'Shelter' and 'How To Belong'. Sarah talks about her childhood in the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire and how the area has provided great inspiration for her work. Plus she answers the Quick Six questions as Jo takes her on a virtual journey.
Jo also discusses the rich literary heritage of the Forest of Dean with Roger Deeks, co-director of the Reading The Forest project.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guest in episode 15 is illustrator and author James Mayhew, who talks about what inspires his work, his career highlights including the Gaspard The Fox books and why he loves collaborating with orchestras. And he goes on a virtual journey in time and space in Jo's Quick Six.
Plus Glasgow based chemist and science communicator Dr Jamie Gallagher returns with some more stories from the Periodic Table. This time we hear about some of the oldest and newest elements.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In the first episode of 2021 Jo is joined by Professor Barry Smith, a philosopher and sensory scientist based at the University of London. He explains how our enjoyment of food is a multi sensory experience and why Jo is a 'super taster'. Plus he takes on the Quick Six.
Jo also brings you the best of her guests from the first 12 episodes, talking in the Quick Six about their favourite smells.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guests in episode 13 are Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks podcast based in Stroud, Gloucestershire. In this edition they are shining the spotlight on science fiction films that deal with time travel.
Plus Jo brings you the best of her guests from the first 12 episodes, talking in the Quick Six about what period of time they'd travel to and who they would meet there.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
It's the 2020 Christmas Special of the podcast and Jo's joined by four previous guests - TV presenter & writer Dallas Campbell, cyber security expert Dr Jessica Barker, science communicator Dr Jamie Gallagher and Emeritus Professor of Microbiology Jo Verran.
They discuss the science of Christmas, when decorations should go up, gifts they wished they'd received and there's a festive version of the Quick Six.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 11 Jo is joined by Shar Daws, author of the book 'Bombshells: Five Women Who Set the Fifties on Fire'. They discuss the lives and legacies of Jean Harlow, Ruth Ellis, Marilyn Monroe, Diana Dors and Jayne Mansfield. Plus Shar takes on the Quick Six.
Jo also explores life in Tudor England as she learns the story behind a charter at Gloucestershire Archives containing the seal of Henry VIII.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Jo finds out how art and science combine when it comes to magic in episode 10. Her special guests are Richard Parsons and Kerry Scorah, professional magicians based in Gloucestershire. They talk about their love of magic, becoming members of The Magic Circle and how they've adapted their work for the virtual world in 2020. Plus they perform some tricks and take on the Quick Six.
Jo also finds out why some objects don't have specific stories at the Museum in the Park in Stroud.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
In episode 9 Jo is joined by Dr Emma Yhnell from Cardiff University, who is myth busting neuroscience and biomedical topics. This time it's brain chemistry. Plus she answers the Quick Six questions as Jo takes her on a virtual journey.
Jo also catches up with PHD student Rebecca Ellis, based in Swansea, to find out how she got on in an international science communication competition. And she shares another of her science poems - this time on the history of autism.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guests in episode 8 are Jeff Downes and Graham O'Dwyer from At The Flicks podcast based in Stroud, Gloucestershire. They discuss science fiction films and TV series, reviewing some recent releases and also shining the spotlight on some classics. And they go on a virtual journey in time and space in Jo's Quick Six.
Plus Glasgow based chemist and science communicator Dr Jamie Gallagher returns with some more stories from the Periodic Table. This time we hear about some metals including what connects gold to dragons.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 7 Jo's special guest is Jo Verran, Emeritus Professor of Microbiology at Manchester Metropolitan University. Among the topics they discuss are viruses, bacteria and antibiotics, as well as how arts and science have combined for Jo. Plus they go on a virtual journey in the Quick Six.
Jo also learns about an object at the home of Dr Edward Jenner in Berkeley, Gloucestershire which helps tell the story of the eradication of smallpox.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo's special guests in episode 6 are Dr Jessica Barker and FC who are cyber security experts based in Gloucester. They join Jo to do some myth busting on topics like passwords, QR codes and cookies. They also take us on a virtual journey as they answer the Quick Six.
Plus Jo visits Gloucestershire Archives to find out the story behind an object she wasn't allowed to see.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Hear some of the best bits from the first five episodes of the podcast.
Guests featured: Dallas Campbell, Dr Jackie Bell, Professor Adam Hart, Rebecca Ellis, Dr Jamie Gallagher & Faith Douglas.
Plus the stories behind objects at Dr Jenner's House in Berkeley, the Jet Age Museum in Staverton, the Museum in the Park in Stroud and outside the Dean Heritage Centre in the Forest of Dean.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Presented, produced and edited by Jo Durrant.
Jo is joined in episode 5 of the podcast by Faith Douglas, author of 'The Nature Remedy' and curator of an arboretum in North Yorkshire. She talks about our relationship with nature, the changing seasons and explains what forest bathing is. And Faith answers the Quick Six questions as Jo takes her on a virtual journey.
Plus Jo finds out the story behind a historic item with a scientific connection in the heart of the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, with historian Roger Deeks.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
There are two special guests joining Jo for episode 4 of the podcast.
Swansea based PHD student Rebecca Ellis shares and explains some of her science poetry, which helped her to win the UK final of FameLab.
Science communicator and chemist Dr Jamie Gallagher from Glasgow tells some element tales from the Periodic Table.
And Jo discovers the story behind some unusual items at the Museum in the Park in Stroud, Gloucestershire.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Jo is joined in episode 3 of the podcast by Professor Adam Hart from the University of Gloucestershire, who is myth busting science communication and vaccinations. Plus he answers the Quick Six questions as Jo takes him on a virtual journey.
Jo also visits Dr Jenner's House in Berkeley to find out the story of an object that marks 40 years since smallpox was declared eradicated.
And there's a preview of episode 4 as Jo chats to PHD student Rebecca Ellis about the science poetry that won her a science communication competition.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 2 of the podcast Jo's special guest is mathematician and physicist Dr Jackie Bell, who talks about her passion for science and her hopes of becoming an astronaut. Plus she takes on the Quick Six questions as Jo takes her on a virtual journey.
Jo also finds out the story behind the Gloster Meteor F.8 which is found at the Jet Age Museum in Staverton, which is next to Gloucestershire Airport where Dr Jackie Bell is learning to fly helicopters.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
In episode 1 of the podcast Jo's special guest is TV presenter and writer Dallas Campbell, who Jo talks to about arts & science, space, conspiracy theories and he answers her Quick Six questions as she takes him on a virtual journey.
Jo also visits the home of Dr Edward Jenner in Berkeley, Gloucestershire to learn about the Physic Garden there.
And she previews some of the guests appearing in future episodes- Dr Jackie Bell, Prof Adam Hart, Rebecca Ellis, Graham O'Dwyer & Jeff Downes, Dr Jamie Gallagher, Dr Emma Yhnell and Dr Jessica Barker & FC.
Presented, produced & edited by Jo Durrant.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.
Hear some of the guests Jo will be talking to as she explores and celebrates arts and science.
Guests featured in the trailer: Professor Adam Hart, Rebecca Ellis, Graham O'Dwyer & Jeff Downes, Dr Jamie Gallagher, Dr Emma Yhnell, Owen Gower, Dr Jackie Bell & Dallas Campbell.
Music licensed from Purple Planet.