Ian Sample

Ian Sample, Science editor at The Guardian, breaks down how GLP-1 drugs function and the alarming rise in their costs. He shares insights on their origins and the implications for those reliant on them. Amy Young, a career coach from Kent, recounts her personal journey with the weight-loss drug Mounjaro, detailing the effects on her appetite and the challenges of stopping it. Both emphasize the need for better support systems for individuals facing the abrupt discontinuation of these medications.

Jan Wörner, former ESA director who led major space programs; Ross Andersen, Atlantic writer on space and culture; Ian Sample, science editor at The Guardian. They discuss Artemis II and NASA timelines. They compare lunar and Martian missions. They debate Apollo’s cultural legacy, the science goals at lunar poles, the push for sustained international cooperation, and the politics shaping modern lunar plans.

Ian Sample, Science editor at The Guardian, discusses the revolutionary IVF technique that has led to the birth of eight healthy babies using DNA from three parents. He highlights the desperate battle against mitochondrial diseases that this method addresses. Prof. Sir Doug Turnbull shares insights from the 25-year journey to achieve this breakthrough, emphasizing the emotional weight for families affected. The podcast navigates the ethical dilemmas and regulatory challenges surrounding this innovative approach, offering a hopeful glimpse into the future of reproductive medicine.

In this enlightening discussion, Ian Sample, the science editor at The Guardian, tackles the recent claims made by Donald Trump regarding autism, paracetamol, and vaccinations. Ian discusses the scientific consensus debunking the supposed link between paracetamol use during pregnancy and autism. He highlights a substantial Swedish study that refutes these claims and elaborates on the lack of evidence supporting the vaccine-autism myth. The conversation also addresses the implications of such misinformation on public health and medical trust.

Ian Sample, The Guardian's science editor, and Dr. Michael Head, a public health researcher, dive into fascinating science stories. They discuss a study showing how positive thinking may enhance immune response. Dr. Head sheds light on the rising scabies cases in the UK, tackling symptoms, transmission challenges, and stigma. The duo also uncovers the surprising intelligence of cows, focusing on a cow named Veronica, who has been documented using tools. Their insights reveal the underestimated cognitive abilities of these animals.

In a thought-provoking discussion, guests Tony Prescott, a professor of cognitive robotics, and Dr. Mhairi Aitken, an ethics fellow at the Alan Turing Institute, join Ian Sample, science editor at The Guardian. They delve into the evolving relationship between humans and AI, exploring its potential to combat loneliness while raising ethical concerns. The conversation covers the risks of unconditional validation from AI, the complexities of grief and digital memories, and the delicate balance needed in regulating AI companionship.

Ian Sample, a science correspondent at The Guardian, joins to dissect fascinating stories in science. They delve into James Watson's mixed legacy, from his groundbreaking DNA work to his controversial remarks that marred his reputation. The discussion also covers a groundbreaking lupus breakthrough linked to Epstein-Barr virus, exploring its potential to activate B cells and impact treatment options. Lastly, they analyze the interstellar comet 3I/Atlas, touching on public fascination and the scientific significance behind it.

Jean Bennett, molecular biologist who co-developed the RPE65 gene therapy that restored sight, shares her 25-year research journey. Ian Sample, science editor at the Guardian, contextualizes this and other Breakthrough Prize winners. They discuss muons and precise measurements, mathematical breakthroughs around solitons and blow-up behavior, and the rise of gene-focused life sciences awards.

Dr Christian Smorra, a CERN physicist who led the antimatter transport project, and Ian Sample, The Guardian science editor and reporter, discuss a world-first move of trapped antiprotons. They explain what antimatter is, why it must be moved for precision experiments, how a mobile Penning trap works, the careful transport operation and the surprising safety realities.

Join Amy Young, a Kent-based career coach, and Ian Sample, science editor at The Guardian, as they dive into the emotional and clinical impacts of stopping GLP-1 weight-loss injections. Amy shares her journey of significant weight loss through Manjaro and the shock of sudden price hikes that forced her to stop. Ian explains the mechanisms of GLP-1 drugs, the challenges of weight regain, and the wider implications for over a million users in the UK, highlighting the urgent need for support as many navigate raising costs and mental health concerns.