Dr Ross Barnett reveals the truth about ancient DNA, sabre-toothed cats, Ice Age predators, rewilding, extinction myths, Pleistocene Britain, diurnal hunting, and the real story behind Jurassic Park! Dr Barnett, renowned palaeogeneticist and author of The Missing Lynx, is celebrated for his groundbreaking research on ancient DNA and the lost megafauna of Britain.

Dr Barnett explains:

* How to extract and analyse DNA from creatures dead for thousands of years

* The biggest lie about dinosaur DNA and the real science behind Jurassic Park

* The harsh truth about why so many Ice Age giants vanished from Britain

* The habit that is sabotaging efforts to rewild the UK’s lost predators

* The rule that changed Dr Barnett’s approach to uncovering extinct species forever

Discover the real science, the untold stories, and the future of Britain’s wildest animals—straight from one of the world’s leading experts.

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BREAKING: Jacob Triumphs in British Wildlife Photography Awards, Beating 13,000 Entries (Featured on BBC)

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Chapters

00:00 Childhood Influences and Early Interests

05:12 Methods of Analyzing Ancient DNA

10:38 The Pleistocene Era Explained

15:51 Insights from Genome Analysis

21:18 Utilizing Resources from Extinct Animals

26:11 The Future of De-extinction

29:09 Reintroduction of Megafauna in the UK

31:57 Challenges of Reintroduction

34:11 Potential Species for Reintroduction

37:00 Recent Developments in Lynx Reintroduction

39:24 The Cost of Wildlife Reintroduction

42:35 Cultural Perceptions of Predators

44:07 Ecotourism and Biodiversity Benefits

46:20 De-extinction: What Should We Bring Back?

49:25 The Unique World of Monotremes

55:52 Conservation Approaches: Hands-On vs. Natural

58:08 Optimism for Biodiversity and Conservation

01:01:20 The Return of the Eagle Owl

01:03:28 Romanticizing Large Predators

01:05:26 Historical Context of Lynx and Wolf Extinction

01:06:38 Future of Lynx Reintroduction in the UK

01:07:57 Successful Reintroductions in Europe

01:09:27 Population Dynamics of Lynx and Deer

01:13:22 Reflections on Career Choices and Academia

01:15:15 Advice for Future Scholars

01:16:34 Influential Literature in Conservation

01:19:05 The Extinction of Passenger Pigeons

01:23:04 Human Impact on Animal Behavior

01:26:52 Human Migration and Extinction Events

01:31:21 The Role of Climate in Extinction

01:32:06 Interbreeding Among Hominids

01:36:10 Current Projects and Future Endeavors

Patricia Morrisroe is an acclaimed American journalist and author best known for her definitive biography of photographer Robert Mapplethorpe.

Robert Mapplethorpe (1946–1989) was a controversial American photographer known for his black-and-white portraits, stylised nudes, floral still lifes, and candid documentation of New York’s gay BDSM scene. His 1989 exhibition The Perfect Moment sparked national debates on public arts funding and censorship due to its provocative content. Celebrated for formal elegance and mastery, Mapplethorpe’s work remains influential, with major retrospectives and collections worldwide. He died of AIDS-related illness, Patricia interviewed him during his final months on Earth.

Expect to learn about the transformation of journalism with the rise of social media, techniques for aspiring writers to improve their storytelling skills, challenges in writing biographies, the true side of Robert Mapplethorpe and the personal and professional influences that have shaped Patricia's career.

00:00 The Journey to Writing

02:50 The Golden Age of Magazines

06:04 Crafting Stories: Techniques and Challenges

08:57 Researching for Biographies and Novels

12:00 The Complexity of Robert Mapplethorpe

14:48 Navigating Criticism and Controversy

18:10 The Influence of Relationships on Art

21:11 The Duality of Mapplethorpe's Character

24:04 The Quest for Success in Art

27:06 The Process of Biography Writing

44:57 The Artistic Evolution of Robert Mapplethorpe

46:20 Controversial Perspectives: The Dark Side of Fame

50:01 The Impact of AIDS on Mapplethorpe's Life and Work

54:34 Reflections on the AIDS Epidemic of the 80s

59:04 Lessons from Mapplethorpe's Life

01:03:10 The Importance of Relationships in Art and Writing

01:07:33 Writing Styles and Personal Experiences

01:11:37 Understanding Insomnia: Personal Insights and Research

01:15:09 Techniques for Clear and Engaging Writing

01:17:59 Advice to My Younger Self

01:18:32 Influential Books and Their Impact

01:19:44 The Drive to Continue Writing

01:20:47 Current Projects and Future Aspirations

#robertmapplethorpe #photography #writing

Read Robert Mapplethorpe’s Captivating Life Story: https://amzn.to/43JQOXR

Check Out Patricia’s Work:

https://patriciamorrisroe.com

Wide Awake (A Memoir on Insomnia): https://amzn.to/43Zzz3l

The Woman In The Moonlight: https://amzn.to/4e3SCym

9 1/2 Narrow (My Life In Shoes): https://amzn.to/3TsZ3Bi

________

BREAKING: Jacob J. Watson-Howland Triumphs in British Wildlife Photography Awards, Beating 13,000 Entries (Featured on BBC)

Learn More: https://www.jacobwatsonhowland.com/winning-image.html

BBC Feature

View my best limited-edition prints https://www.jacobwatsonhowland.com/featured-fine-art-photography-prints.html

Instagram– keep updated for future episodes. www.instagram.com/jacobwatsonhowland

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www.jacobwatsonhowland.com

Expect to learn the complexities of overcoming alcohol addiction, the crucial role of beliefs in shaping behaviour and the importance of cognitive realignment rather than relying solely on willpower.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Duncan Bhaskaran Brown

02:02 The Journey to Sobriety

05:52 Addiction and Self-Improvement

09:06 Diet and Nutrition Insights

11:49 The Impact of Plant-Based Eating

18:09 Alcohol: Myths and Realities

26:58 Cultural Perspectives on Alcohol

28:26 The Economics of Alcohol Subsidies

30:21 Taxation and Its Impact on Alcohol Consumption

32:27 Changing Attitudes Towards Alcohol in Younger Generations

35:50 Peer Pressure and Social Drinking

40:42 Cultural Influences on Drinking Habits

41:45 Alcohol Problems in Eastern Bloc Countries

43:58 The Paradox of Alcohol as a De-Stressor

51:35 Alcohol's Impact on Workplace Productivity

55:34 Alternatives to Alcohol for Social Anxiety

01:00:05 Unpacking Beliefs About Alcohol

01:04:17 Cognitive Realignment vs. White Knuckling

01:06:31 The Three Pillars of Sobriety

01:09:43 Emotional Intelligence and Relationships

01:15:13 Challenging Masculinity and Alcohol

01:19:13 Contrarian Truths and Personal Insights

Best Quotes:

"I think there's a lot of power in beliefs."

"Alcohol is both a stimulant and a depressant."

"You do not need alcohol to socialise."

"Willpower is a limited resource."

"Connection is such a huge part of sobriety."

"Challenging masculinity and alcohol is necessary."

#sobriety #addiction #selfimprovement

For more inspiring conversations and expert insights, subscribe and stay tuned for future episodes.

______

Check out Duncan’s fantastic work:

More Than a Chain: How to be a twenty-first century Mayor, Lord Mayor or Council Chair: https://amzn.to/4kmo4dz

Real Men Quit https://amzn.to/4jzjNSO

Get Over Indulgence: Take Control Find Your Stress-Free Life https://amzn.to/43KNNoU

Flat Pack Sober Podcast https://amzn.to/4dOezBu

Website https://www.bhaskaranbrown.com

______

BREAKING: Jacob J. Watson-Howland Triumphs in British Wildlife Photography Awards, Beating 13,000 Entries (Featured on BBC)

Learn More: https://www.jacobwatsonhowland.com/winning-image.html

BBC Feature

View my best limited-edition prints https://www.jacobwatsonhowland.com/featured-fine-art-photography-prints.html

Instagram– keep updated for future episodes. www.instagram.com/jacobwatsonhowland

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobjwatsonhowland

Listen on Spotify:

Website

www.jacobwatsonhowland.com

Jane Peyton is one of Britain’s most celebrated drinks experts—an award-winning author, broadcaster, and founder of the School of Booze, renowned for her engaging education on beer, cider, and wine. As the UK’s first certified Pommelier (cider sommelier) and Beer Sommelier of the Year, Jane has written eleven books on alcoholic drinks, spearheaded Beer Day Britain, and earned accolades including a Guinness World Record for the world’s largest beer tasting. Her passion for the cultural history of alcohol, pub heritage, and the evolving drinks landscape has made her a sought-after voice on radio, TV, and historic pub tours.

Expect to learn how alcohol shaped British society—from the pivotal role of women in brewing and the impact of the Black Death on beer production, to the gin craze’s social upheaval and the shifting status of wine and spirits. Jane unpacks the evolution of pubs, the influence of regulations on drinking habits, and how digital culture is reshaping the pub industry.

Why do pubs hold such a unique place in British life? What are the health and nutritional debates around alcohol? How are non-alcoholic drinks and changing attitudes redefining social drinking? Jane and Jacob Watson-Howland explore the economics of Wetherspoons, the benefits of moderate consumption, and the educational mission behind the School of Booze.

Expect myth-busting insights on alcohol’s history, the overlooked contributions of women brewers, the real story behind pub culture, and the future of drinking in a rapidly changing world

#alcohol #history #britain #pubs

Read Jane’s books:

https://www.school-of-booze.com/product-category/books/

Jane’s Socials:

Insta: @school.of.booze

Twitter: @schoolofbooze

00:00 The Origins of Alcoholic Beverages

03:04 The Role of Women in Brewing History

05:59 Historical Drinking Habits: Beer vs. Water

09:07 The Status of Wine and Spirits in Society

12:13 The Gin Craze and Its Societal Impact

15:02 The Evolution of Beer and Its Cultural Significance

18:01 The Science Behind Alcohol and Sociability

21:09 The Surprising Benefits of Alcohol

24:02 Myths and Misconceptions About Alcohol

27:02 The Changing Landscape of Pubs in Britain

29:58 Cultural Impacts of Declining Pubs

32:48 The Future of Pubs in a Digital Age

46:59 The Evolution of Pubs and Their Appeal

49:26 Regulations and Their Impact on Alcohol Consumption

52:53 Historical Context of Alcohol Regulations

56:45 The Rise of Non-Alcoholic Beverages

01:00:33 Peer Pressure and Alcohol Consumption

01:04:55 Health Implications of Alcohol Consumption

01:09:30 Nutritional Benefits of Alcoholic Beverages

01:14:50 Wetherspoons: A Case Study in Pub Economics

01:17:53 The School of Booze: Education and Consultancy

BREAKING: Jacob J. Watson-Howland Triumphs in British Wildlife Photography Awards, Beating 13,000 Entries (Featured on BBC)

Learn More: https://www.jacobwatsonhowland.com/winning-image.html

BBC Feature

View my best limited-edition prints https://www.jacobwatsonhowland.com/featured-fine-art-photography-prints.html

Instagram– keep updated for future episodes. www.instagram.com/jacobwatsonhowland

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobjwatsonhowland

Listen on Spotify:

Listen on Apple:

Website

www.jacobwatsonhowland.com

Hans Abbing PhD is a cultural economist, artist, and author known for his work 'Why Are Artists Poor?

Expect to learn the unique economic dynamics of the art world, addressing common myths and misconceptions about the value and allure of art.

What will be the impact of technology and AI on art production, the role of government subsidies, and why the arts are so appealing to young creatives?

Expect to learn the importance of self-education and business acumen for artists, the evolving digital landscape, and strategies for sustaining a career in the arts, and much more!

Abbing also shares personal experiences with art dealers, the importance of networking, and the role of audience interpretation in the creation of art.

Hans Abbing’s books, a must-read for anyone trying to understand and thrive in the art world:

Why Are Artists Poor? https://amzn.to/3H54kvZ

The Changing Social Economy of Art https://amzn.to/42SJCrP

The Economies of Serious and Popular Art: How They Diverged and Reunited https://amzn.to/3F7EOWp

BREAKING: Jacob J. Watson-Howland Triumphs in British Wildlife Photography Awards, Beating 13,000 Entries (Featured on BBC)

Learn More: https://www.jacobwatsonhowland.com/winning-image.html

View my best limited-edition prints https://www.jacobwatsonhowland.com/featured-fine-art-photography-prints.html

Instagram– keep updated for future episodes. www.instagram.com/jacobwatsonhowland

Chapters00:00

Introduction to the Economics of Art

02:05

The Myths of the Art Economy

06:08

The Exceptional Nature of Art Economics

08:41

Technology and Art: A Complex Relationship

14:12

AI's Impact on Art and Productivity

18:02

Scarcity and Value in the Art World

19:59

Globalization and the Future of Art Hubs

24:16

The Paradox of Government Subsidies

26:53

The Allure of the Arts for Young Artists

31:56

Self-Education vs. Formal Art Education

39:12

The Importance of Business Acumen for Artists

42:49

The Importance of Branding in Art

45:03

Navigating the Art Dealer Landscape

51:28

Building Relationships with Art Dealers

56:00

Overcoming Rejection in the Art World

01:08:28

Sustaining an Artistic Career

01:11:54

Current Projects and Artistic Evolution

Best Quotes

* "Technology is very important in the arts."

* "AI may play a role in productivity in the arts."

* "Scarcity plays a role in the value of art."

* "The internet helps globalization in the arts."

* "Subsidies can keep artists poor."

* "The arts have much to offer youngsters."

* "Authenticity is very important."

* "It shouldn't be just business."

* "You should stick with it."

* "You can decide on your own working hours."

* "They make their own work out of the painting."

Ken Thompson is a renowned plant ecologist and author of several well-regarded books on gardening and popular science, such as Where Do Camels Belong? and Darwin's Most Wonderful Plants. His works are published by notable publishers, and he has received awards like the Royal Horticultural Society’s Veitch Memorial Medal. Expect to learn how you can boost biodiversity and why saving individual species isn’t effective, and much more!

Why are conservation and biodiversity issues so complex? Why is most of Earth’s biodiversity unknown? What are the challenges of conservation efforts, and the importance of reintroducing species to restore ecosystems?

Expect to learn the ineffectiveness of traditional conservation criteria like rarity and nativeness, evolving public attitudes towards species reintroduction, the myths about dangerous wildlife, the significance of soil health in agriculture, the role of gardens in preserving biodiversity, the potential impacts of climate change on wildlife and much more.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Biodiversity

09:48 The Challenges of Conservation

19:58 Reintroducing Species: A Path to Ecosystem Restoration

29:57 The Future of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services

46:03 Wildlife Myths and Realities

50:22 The Importance of Soil and Agriculture

58:47 Biodiversity in Gardens

01:01:29 Adapting to Climate Change

01:27:35 Future of Wildlife and Conservation

Best Quotes

* "Biodiversity is the whole of life."

* "We know almost nothing about biodiversity."

* "Conservation is a nightmare."

* "Rarity is a waste of time."

* "The natural world doesn't belong to us."

* "Reintroducing lynx is a no-brainer."

* "Big things start small."

* "Wolves are not a danger to people."

* "Bears are dangerous."

* "Birds are a real indicator."

* "Gardens have preserved a lot of biodiversity."

* "Just garden in a garden with wildlife in mind."

* "Climate change, you could see it in action."

* "It's happening and we're not going to stop it now."

#conservation #biodiversity #rewilding #megafuna

Dr Ken Thompson’s books, a must read for anyone trying to understand the natural world:

Why do we need pandas? https://amzn.to/3RP4KsH

Where do camels belong? https://amzn.to/3SlUd8u

Why do we need pandas? https://amzn.to/3RP4KsH

Common or Garden: Encounters with Britain's 50 Most Successful Wild Plants https://amzn.to/4k4f7oG

Darwin's Most Wonderful Plants: Darwin's Botany Today https://amzn.to/3YtgTr8

BREAKING: Jacob J. Watson-Howland Triumphs in British Wildlife Photography Awards, Beating 13,000 Entries (Featured on BBC)

Learn More: https://www.jacobwatsonhowland.com/winning-image.html

View my best limited-edition prints https://www.jacobwatsonhowland.com/featured-fine-art-photography-prints.html

Instagram– keep updated for future episodes. www.instagram.com/jacobwatsonhowland