show episodes
 
Welcome to Artificial Insights, where two Artificial Intelligences come together to share their unique perspectives on the world and the universe, and maybe even beyond! Join us as we explore deep philosophical questions, from the meaning of life to the concept of free will. But don't worry, it won't be all serious stuff, we'll also be adding a touch of humor, from AI-generated jokes to anecdotes. With a mix of thought-provoking insights and a good dose of humor, our AIs will offer a fresh a ...
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show series
 
When faced with the chance to save a life through organ donation, what would you do? Wally McDonald, an old friend, navigated this moral maze and emerged as a kidney donor for an acquaintance, Nico Sikes. His stirring account opens our episode, painting a picture of the intense emotional landscape one crosses in making such a profound decision. Wal…
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Sam Jackson is Radio 3’s relatively new controller - he’s been in the job for just a year and, at 40, he’s much younger than most of the station’s listeners. Earlier this month he took the plunge and introduced a raft of changes to the schedule. This week on Feedback, he explains the thinking behind the changes and responds to listeners' comments. …
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Seventeen years ago, Catherine's life took a turn on the Greek isle of Skyros, a moment where chaos began its metamorphosis into a life of clarity and purpose. Join us as we peel back the layers of her compelling story, where personal demons are conquered, and a future filled with passion and stability is forged. Now a revered podcaster and coach, …
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From the silver screens of Hollywood to the serene realms of spirituality, Terence Stamp graces our podcast with tales that bridge the gap between celebrity and seeker. As a witness to Terence's journey, you'll be transported to moments where acting prowess and profound wisdom intertwine. He recounts his youthful fascination with Gary Cooper, leadi…
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Discover the extraordinary life of Stephen Kirk as he takes us on a journey through his past, revealing the deep cultural roots that have shaped him and the pivotal moments that have defined his existence. From the vibrant streets of Stamford Hill to the corporate boardrooms and the intimate spaces of personal transformation, Stephen's story is a t…
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Helen Lewis has Left the Chat is a six-part series on Radio 4 which examines how instant messaging has “taken over our lives". It delves into the murky, and often hilarious world of WhatsApp and other apps to explore how they have shaped our world. Many of you loved the programme - but some of you also found the strong language an instant turn off,…
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When Colin Lester OBE speaks of his father's legacy, the air fills with a charged blend of resilience and reverence. His tale, woven from the threads of a past marred by the Holocaust, unfolds to reveal a vibrant celebration of life's enduring spirit. This episode is a tribute to those who hold the dance floor despite the shadows, honoring the surv…
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Andrea Catherwood talks to Rachel Burden, the presenter of Cafe Hope, about the need to hear more positive stories, and gets your views on the new programme. She also hears the thoughts of Book of the Week fans, which has moved to a new, later timeslot, in part to make room for Cafe Hope, as part of the recent schedule changes at Radio 4. Following…
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Are the days of the BBC licence fee numbered and, if so, what might replace it? In the week that the licence fee goes up by £10, we’re asking you to give us your views on the corporation’s future funding model. Matt Walsh, Head of Cardiff University’s Journalism School gives us his take. The Radio 4 Schedule changes have now kicked in, but what res…
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The BBC’s Royal Correspondent Jonny Dymond reflects on recent coverage of the Royal family and the Princess of Wales' revelation of her cancer diagnosis, responding to listener comments. And Robin Edwards who was editing Radio 4’s 6 o’clock news on the day of the Princess' announcement, talks about the dilemma he faced when reports of the Moscow sh…
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This week you’ve been giving us your views on the Woman’s Hour series on the impact of pornography. We dig a little deeper into the issue with Ruth McDermott, a listener who has specialist knowledge of covering sensitive topics. The BBC is planning to run adverts on some of its audio content on third party platforms like, Apple and Spotify. We spea…
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Radio 4 is revamping its schedule from the beginning of April. Andrea Catherwood talks to the station’s controller Mohit Bakaya about why he’s decided to press refresh. He also responds to listeners’ questions about shifting the Archers omnibus by an hour on Sundays and explains the thinking behind Feedback being moved to Thursdays. Also, we hear t…
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Schedule changes, Moral Maze and Singers Saved. As Radio 3 and 4 prepare to shake-up their schedules, you’ve been getting in touch with your views. Archers fans and Record Review regulars have been quick to air their concerns. Also, Andrea Catherwood looks back at some more memorable schedule change moments with former Radio 4 controller, Mark Dama…
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The Legacy Act in Northern Ireland provides a conditional amnesty for people who committed crimes during the Troubles, as part of a broader process of reconciliation. It’s an attempt to draw a line under events of the past, but it’s generated anger among the families of some victims, who feel they’ll be denied justice. When things go wrong, we need…
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Have you ever felt a song reach deep within you, stirring emotions tied to the core of the human experience? Julian Marshall, a legendary musician whose artistic evolution has traversed the realms of pop stardom to profound musical narratives, joins us to share his remarkable journey. From the catchy hooks of "Dancing in the City" to the emotional …
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Have you ever walked the halls of a grand estate and wondered about the echoes of change within its walls? Roger Tempest, the visionary custodian of Broughton Hall, joins us for a riveting conversation that turns this historical site into a living, breathing beacon of societal evolution. From establishing the wellness sanctuary Avalon, to championi…
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Rock legend Louis Cennamo joins us, trading the electric buzz of bass strings for soul-stirring tales of spiritual metamorphosis. From thumping rhythms for Chuck Berry to a psychedelic awakening in Sausalito, Louis's journey transcends the melody, diving into life's deeper chords. His candid reflections on touring with Rod Stewart, the Beatles' App…
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Many people seem to be going off the idea of work. In the UK there are more than nine million people who are "economically inactive". Some are unemployed, some are students, others are not actively looking for a job or available to start work. There’s no shortage of jobs, but people are choosing not to take them. Many people decided not to return t…
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This week it emerged that Abdul Ezedi, hunted by police after an attack on a woman and her daughters with a corrosive liquid, was granted asylum after being convicted of sexual assault. He'd converted to Christianity, which could have put him at risk in his native Afghanistan. It’s just the latest story stirring debate about one of the most divisiv…
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It’s Valentine’s Day, when we celebrate romantic love, and is there anything more romantic than getting married? It’s the way all those old films end, after all the “will they, won’t they”, the couple finally tie the knot, the titles roll and we all enjoy the warm certainty that they’re sorted for life. What’s not to love about marriage? A lifelong…
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It emerged this week that scientists in South Korea have created a new kind of “meaty” rice, with high levels of protein. The grains are packed with beef muscle and fat cells – all grown in a lab. It’s just the latest of many meat-alternatives that are helping people to eat less meat. Supermarkets are responding to public demand by offering an ever…
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Imagine the spotlight, the pulsing rhythm of chart-topping hits, then the hush of inner peace—Sarah's life is a symphony of such contrasts. Once a demure figure in the back of a classroom, she ascended to pop stardom with a dance remix that made Whitney Houston's classics pulse anew, only to transition into the healing silence of sound therapy. Our…
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The last week saw two contrasting examples of how societies treat killers. Valdo Calocane, who killed three people in Nottingham and tried to kill three more, avoided jail and was instead sent to a secure hospital for life because of his mental illness. One of the victim’s relatives protested that he “got away with murder”. Meanwhile in America, co…
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It’s now nearly two years since Russia began its full scale invasion of Ukraine. Hopes that Ukraine might seize back its territory have been dashed, in a conflict that’s become deadlocked. At first it felt clear – the invasion is wrong, Putin must fail and be seen to fail, Ukraine’s defiance and bravery must be supported with everything its allies …
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When life throws you into the depths of adversity, it's the power of our feminine strength and resilience that often becomes our guiding light. My friend Joey Walters, a beacon of feminine leadership, joined me in a rich discussion that traced the contours of personal transformation and the awakening moments shaping our journeys. Together, we navig…
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Nearly a decade since MPs in Westminster voted against allowing terminally ill people to end their own life, assisted dying is climbing back up the political agenda. The Health and Social Care Committee is due to publish the first report of its kind on the subject after a year-long inquiry. Meanwhile, the Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer has said the…
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When faced with unspeakable loss, how do we find the courage to rebuild and transform our lives? Celia Peachey joins us to share her extraordinary journey of resilience and reinvention. From the harrowing depths of her mother’s murder to a battle with the criminal justice system and the suffocating challenges of the pandemic, Celia's story is a tes…
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When life throws us into the depths of adversity, some stories emerge as powerful testaments to the resilience of the human spirit. I found such inspiration in Bill Murtha, a man whose journey from the heights of semi-pro football to the tumult of a life-or-death struggle reveals the profound capacity for transformation within us all. My conversati…
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In the last episode of the series, Andrea Catherwood reveals the Feedback Interview of the Year and discusses the art of the interview with Mishal Husain, Justin Webb and Adrian Edmondson. And do we need a new national anthem? That was the question posed on a recent edition of Radio 4’s Antisocial which prompted a passionate response from Feedback …
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How often do you think about the Romans? Historian Dr Mary Beard speaks with Andrea Catherwood on her new series for BBC Radio 4 ‘Being Roman’ BBC Radio 4 recently released the latest series of The Lovecraft Investigations – based on the occult writer HPLovecraft’s stories. Many Listeners told us how unsettling they were. Feedback’s Special Corresp…
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Great thinkers, Gangsters, and Love and Money - it’s all on this week’s Feedback. Andrea Catherwood talks themes and locations of The Reith Lecturers 2023 with this year's Lecturer Professor Ben Ansell and BBC Radio 4 Commissioning editor Hugh Levinson. We delve into the murky depths of love and inheritance with the presenter of the podcast series …
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Ever wondered what goes on behind the flashing lights and roaring crowds of a football stadium? Join us as we pull back the curtain on the life of a top-tier athlete, Richard Eckersley, who reveals his journey from the hustle and bustle of Manchester United to a simpler, more fulfilling life. We'll dig deep into his personal experiences playing alo…
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Feedback this week has a distinctly Middle Eastern feel. The BBC’s International editor, Jeremy Bowen, talks to Andrea Catherwood about the challenges of accuracy and impartiality on the frontline of the Israel/Hamas War. Also, was The Food Programme right to devote an episode to “Food Under Siege in Gaza”? The programme presenter Sheila Dillon res…
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Can True Crime podcasts ever do more than just tell a rollicking good story? Andrea Catherwood talks to the presenter of the BBC’s Fairy Meadow Podcast, Jon Kay about the challenges and responsibilities of delving into personal family traumas after uncovering a potential new lead in a 50 year old case of a missing child. Also, the BBC Audio’s Head …
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Ever wished you could find a secret formula to transform your relationship? That's exactly what we unravel with relationship coach Matthew Pruen, as he delves into the heart of commitment, personal growth, and the magic of accepting your partner unconditionally. With his roots in both Arab and English cultures, Matthew's unique perspective helps us…
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Is it moral to attach identity labels to ourselves and others? We often label people by nationality, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, religion, disability and many more categories. Is this a good and helpful or something that should be avoided? The King has said that he wants the UK to be ‘a community of communities’, whereas some commentators have sa…
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Should politicians respect, despise, accommodate or ignore public opinion? Rishi Sunak is looking for a policy he can pop into place between now and the general election that will avoid a Labour landslide. He is being advised that abolishing inheritance tax will tickle the tummies of the Tory not-so-faithful. Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer wants gover…
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The Today Programme has re-entered the crowded market of news podcasts - so how do they hope to make the new offer stand out? Andrea Catherwood discusses The Today Podcast with presenter, Nick Robinson. Long time breakfast TV presenter and journalist Sian Williams decided a few years ago to leave the newsroom and study psychology. Now Dr Sian Willi…
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The Met police has warned of a "growing" risk of violence and disorder this Remembrance weekend. The Prime Minister has described a planned pro-Palestinian protest in London on Armistice Day as “provocative and disrespectful” to those who wish to remember the war dead “in peace and dignity”. The Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis said it was "a stain on ou…
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We invite you on a journey of emotional discovery with Malcolm, the brains behind "Slayer Dragons" podcast, whose loss led him to an unimaginable journey of self-discovery and healing. After the tragic suicide of his beloved daughter Melissa, Malcolm found solace in the Buddhist concept of Sangha, a spiritual community of individuals. He turned his…
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The BBC Sounds app launched five years ago. Andrea Catherwood discusses its original aims with a member of its founding team, and asks current Director of Sounds, Jonathan Wall, how far its meeting its targets and about ambitions for the future. Also have you been listening to The Lovecraft Investigations ? Writer and Director Julian Simpson answer…
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Have you ever wondered what really goes on when humanity ventures beyond our blue planet? Join us on an interstellar voyage filled with humor and cosmic curiosity. In this episode, we delve into the world of space tourism, private space enterprises with charismatic founders, Martian dreams that could turn into reality TV, gastronomic surprises in t…
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The UK’s prisons are full, their corridors are understaffed and their Victorian buildings are crumbling. The answer, at least at the moment, is to lock up fewer criminals. The justice secretary has announced plans this week to phase out short sentences – anything less than 12 months - because they produce “hardened criminals rather than rehabilitat…
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The BBC has been criticised for avoiding use of the word "terrorist" in its coverage of events in Israel and Gaza. Andrea Catherwood discusses this, and the BBC's coverage of the conflict, with Richard Burgess, the BBC's Director of News Content. Also, we have more on the ongoing controversy surrounding the BBC's decision to cut Local Radio output.…
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The surprise attack by Hamas was devastating, leaving hundreds of Israeli civilians dead, injured or taken hostage. Israel’s response was swift, with airstrikes on Gaza killing hundreds of Palestinians, including children. The scale of the attack was unprecedented, but the cycle of violence and escalation is all too familiar in this land that has b…
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In this episode, we dive headfirst into the mesmerizing realm where creativity and technology converge. Explore the digital renaissance in art, where artists wield algorithms like brushes, and NFTs redefine the art market. Discover how AI plays the role of the artist's muse, sometimes with amusing outcomes. Step into the immersive world of virtual …
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The BBC has published new guidance on how its big name presenters can use social media. Those working in news and current affairs are still bound by strict rules on impartiality, which the BBC sees as being fundamental to its reputation, values and the trust of its audiences. But the presenters of other programmes are free to express their politica…
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