Key Highlights
- The Rest Is Science is a new podcast from Goalhanger that combines the expertise of mathematician Professor Hannah Fry and science YouTuber Michael Stevens.
- The opening episode, focusing on water, was packed with kid-friendly fun facts, showcasing the hosts’ chemistry and engaging content.
- Rutger Bregman’s Reith Lectures at this year’s Radio 4 series were described as a stirring call to arms, discussing contemporary issues of morality and leadership.
- Bregman’s lecture emphasized the need for a moral revolution among both leaders and ordinary people, advocating for a more ethical approach in governance and business.
The Rise of The Rest Is Science: A Podcast with Hannah Fry and Michael Stevens
Goalhanger, Britain’s leading podcast production company, has added another gem to its lineup with The Rest Is Science, a new show hosted by the engaging duo of mathematician Professor Hannah Fry (British) and science YouTuber Michael Stevens (American). This podcast promises to be both enlightening and entertaining, as it delves into the fascinating world of chemistry and beyond.
The opening episode on water was a perfect example of how The Rest Is Science succeeds in its mission. Fry and Stevens presented facts that were not only informative but also kid-friendly, making complex concepts accessible.
Did you know, for instance, that ice has the same classification as rock because it’s structured like one? This revelation sparked curiosity among listeners, proving that even adults can learn new things from these hosts.
The dynamic between Fry and Stevens is evident in their engaging discussion style. While both are experienced presenters, The Rest Is Science requires a different approach—one of democratic chat rather than solo monologues.
To ensure smooth delivery for video and audio formats, they have adapted well, hiding notes where necessary. Their discussions range widely, covering topics from the composition of non-water drinks to the scarcity of drinkable water on Earth (only 0.0072%!). The balance between them is just right, with Fry gradually speaking more as the episode progressed.
Rutger Bregman’s Stirring Reith Lectures
The annual airing of Radio 4’s Reith Lectures usually fails to excite much interest. However, this year’s opening lecture by Dutch historian and best-selling author Rutger Bregman was a significant departure from the norm. Bregman structured his lecture like a sermon, consisting of three parts: misery, redemption, and thankfulness.
Begging for a “moral revolution,” Bregman highlighted the moral failings of contemporary leaders, describing them as the “logical outcome” of what he calls the “survival of the shameless.” He argued that it’s not merely politicians but also commercial enterprises that need to change their approach.
His descriptions were pin-point accurate and his language was both glorious and withering. Despite recent edits to his lecture (including the removal of a critical statement about Donald Trump), Bregman’s message was clear: our times are dark, and we need to act accordingly.
The applause at the end of Bregman’s lecture was thunderous, reflecting its impact. This Reith Lectures series is undoubtedly one of the unmissable ones in recent years, offering a powerful call to arms for ethical leadership and action.
Conclusion
The Rest Is Science from Goalhanger has made a strong start with its engaging content and dynamic hosts. Meanwhile, Rutger Bregman’s Reith Lectures provide a stirring reminder of the urgent need for moral and ethical change in our society. Both offer compelling perspectives on their respective subjects, ensuring that listeners are both entertained and inspired.
