Leaf & Elfie: Curious Talks
39 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 2 months ago -"Curious. Novel. Expert."
Join Leaf and Elfie as they talk to fascinating experts from different fields and backgrounds. Learn from the insights of a neuroscientist who studies the effects of meditation, a human rights activist who fights for social justice, and a vegan bodybuilder who challenges stereotypes. Launched in May 2020, this podcast covers topics such as psychology, self-improvement, social change and futuristic tech.
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Episodes
Freedom to Run: Interview with filmmakers Dr. Cairsti Russell and Stephen Sheriff
March 08, 2024 17:00 - 55 minutes - 38.1 MBIn this episode, we delve into the heartwarming and eye-opening documentary “Freedom to Run.” The film follows two remarkable groups of runners: one from Scotland and the other from Palestine. Marathon running: a symbol of perseverance and pushing your limits. But what happens when those limits are imposed by political realities? "Freedom to Run" explores the challenges faced by Palestinian runners training for a marathon in a land fractured by checkpoints and restricted movement. The fi...
Britain’s Landmarks and Legends: Interview with author Jo Woolf
December 06, 2023 11:00 - 58 minutes - 40.4 MBIn this episode, Leaf and Elfie are joined by Jo Woolf, the writer in residence of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society. Jo is the author of The Great Horizon, a collection of stories about explorers and adventurers who have shaped our world. Jo shares her passion for the British Isles and their rich heritage of myths and legends. She tells us about some of the places that inspired her, such as Loch Ness, Stonehenge, Glastonbury and the Isle of Skye. She also reveals some of the lesser-k...
Designing the Mind: Interview with bestselling author Ryan A Bush
September 06, 2023 16:00 - 57 minutes - 39.8 MBWe speak to Ryan A Bush, founder of Designing the Mind, and author of bestselling book, Designing the Mind: The Principles of Psychitecture. Ryan discusses his new book, Become Who You Are (out to buy in 2024), and on the show, provides listeners with invaluable insights and techniques to get into positive states through the path of self-becoming. Ryan A Bush is a designer and thinker focused on building better systems, better people, and a better future. Ryan's central purpose is to pr...
Fighting Autoimmune Disease: Interview with Dr Akil Palanisamy
August 06, 2023 15:00 - 57 minutes - 39.8 MBIn this episode Dr. Palanisamy discusses his groundbreaking 5-step approach to treating and healing autoimmune conditions. Leaf and Elfie, delve into topics such as addressing toxins, healing infections, improving gut health, proper nutrition, and conscious rest. Dr. Akil’s unique blend of functional medicine, Ayurveda, and ancestral nutrition offers a natural and effective “root cause” approach to autoimmune disease management. His protocol aims to empower individuals to prevent and rever...
Pain: The Ultimate Mentor with Kevin Hunt
July 02, 2023 20:00 - 59 minutes - 40.9 MBWe discuss pain with Kevin Hunt, a chartered physiotherapist with 25 years of clinical experience working with people suffering from persistent pain. In his groundbreaking book, Pain: The Ultimate Mentor, we challenge misconceptions about pain and explore Hunt's holistic framework on utilising your body and mind to live a better life. A must-read for not only people suffering from persistent pain but a useful guide for all to have a greater understanding of our bodies to live a better life.
Pain: Interview with leading physiotherapist and author Kevin Hunt
July 02, 2023 20:00 - 59 minutes - 40.9 MBIn this episode we discuss pain with Kevin Hunt, a chartered physiotherapist with 25 years of clinical experience working with people suffering from persistent pain. In his groundbreaking book, Pain: The Ultimate Mentor, we challenge misconceptions about pain and explore Hunt's holistic framework on utilising your body and mind to live a better life. A must-read for not only people suffering from persistent pain but a useful guide for all to have a greater understanding of our bodies to liv...
Living in a Tiny Home: Interview with small living pioneer, Jay Shafer
June 07, 2023 19:00 - 57 minutes - 39.8 MBIn this episode, we have the honor of hosting Jay Shafer, the esteemed godfather of the tiny home movement and author of the renowned book, "The Small House Book." Join us on a journey through the remarkable story of Jay Shafer, a true pioneer who has redefined the concept of home with his innovative designs and unwavering passion for simplicity. Discover the influence he has had on the tiny house movement, inspiring countless individuals to embrace a minimalist lifestyle and pursue their b...
Living in a Tiny Home: Interview with Jay Shafer
June 07, 2023 19:00 - 57 minutes - 39.8 MBIn this episode, we have the honor of hosting Jay Shafer, the esteemed godfather of the tiny home movement and author of the renowned book, "The Small House Book." Join us on a journey through the remarkable story of Jay Shafer, a true pioneer who has redefined the concept of home with his innovative designs and unwavering passion for simplicity. Discover the influence he has had on the tiny house movement, inspiring countless individuals to embrace a minimalist lifestyle and pursue their b...
Fighting Corruption: Interview with Patrick Alley, Co-Founder of Global Witness
May 10, 2023 12:00 - 1 hour - 41.6 MBIn this podcast interview, we sit down with Patrick Alley, author of Very Bad People, as he shares his experiences investigating human rights abuses across the globe. Alley recounts tales of car chases through Cambodia and the bravery required to confront corrupt officials and criminals. His firsthand accounts of the political landscape in Cambodia provide a captivating listen, shedding light on the terrible atrocities committed by those in power. If you're a fan of true crime and investig...
Emergency State with Adam Wagner
February 06, 2023 19:00 - 59 minutes - 41.1 MBWe speak with human rights barrister, Adam Wagner, about his new book Emergency State: How We Lost Our Freedoms in the Pandemic and Why it Matters. Adam is the UK’s leading authority on the law relating to COVID-19. From 2020-2021 he was Specialist Advisor to Parliament’s Joint Committee on Human Rights Inquiry into the government’s response to the pandemic and assisted in the writing of five reports. Adam founded and chairs the multi-award winning human rights education charity EachO...
Emergency State: Interview with Adam Wagner, human rights advocate and barrister
February 06, 2023 19:00 - 59 minutes - 41.1 MBWe speak with human rights barrister, Adam Wagner, about his new book Emergency State: How We Lost Our Freedoms in the Pandemic and Why it Matters. Adam is the UK’s leading authority on the law relating to COVID-19. From 2020-2021 he was Specialist Advisor to Parliament’s Joint Committee on Human Rights Inquiry into the government’s response to the pandemic and assisted in the writing of five reports. Adam founded and chairs the multi-award winning human rights education charity EachO...
History of witchcraft: Interview with Prof. Marion Gibson from University of Exeter
January 18, 2023 18:00 - 59 minutes - 40.8 MBIn this episode we speak to Professor of Renaissance and Magical Literatures, Marion Gibson from University of Exeter. From Salem to rural Sussex - Marion investigates witch trials and what they can tell us about culture, politics, religion and gender throughout history. Marion helps us explore questions: Were women the only ones accused of casting spells? What motivated communities to turn on their friends? Why might some women be seen as dangerous and 'bewitching'? Marion's book on w...
Ben The Forest Foodie
November 02, 2022 17:00 - 57 minutes - 39.6 MBIn this episode we speak with Vegan Choice Award Winner, Ben Richardson AKA Ben the Forest Foodie. Ben is a writer, forest school teacher, blogger, photographer and vegan influencer. We speak to Ben about how an internship on an organic farm changed his life and turned him vegan! As well as how children benefit from forest schools and being in nature. We learn about forest bathing, finding calm at home, and how to make delicious vegan sushi! @bentheforestfoodie ✨ VEGAN CHOICE AWARD WINNE...
Ben The Forest Foodie: Interview with vegan influencer Ben Richardson
November 02, 2022 17:00 - 57 minutes - 39.6 MBIn this episode we speak with Vegan Choice Award Winner, Ben Richardson AKA Ben the Forest Foodie. Ben is a writer, forest school teacher, blogger, photographer and vegan influencer. We speak to Ben about how an internship on an organic farm changed his life and turned him vegan! As well as how children benefit from forest schools and being in nature. We learn about forest bathing, finding calm at home, and how to make delicious vegan sushi! @bentheforestfoodie ✨ VEGAN CHOICE AWARD WINNE...
The science of hugging: Interview with Prof. Sebastian Ocklenburg
May 03, 2022 20:00 - 55 minutes - 38.5 MBWhy do hugs feel good? Can hugs cure loneliness and depression? Is hugging a tree good for you? What is the optimal length of time to hug for "feel-good" hormones? Can you hug yourself? In this episode Leaf and Elfie talk with Prof. Sebastian Ocklenburg about the science of hugging to find out answers to these questions and understand his research on social touch. Sebastian Ocklenburg, Ph.D., is a professor for research methods in psychology at the Department of Psychology at MSH Medic...
The science of hugging: Interview with Prof. Sebastian Ocklenburg
May 03, 2022 20:00 - 55 minutes - 38.5 MBWhy do hugs feel good? Can hugs cure loneliness and depression? Is hugging a tree good for you? What is the optimal length of time to hug for "feel-good" hormones? Can you hug yourself? In this episode Leaf and Elfie talk with Prof. Sebastian Ocklenburg about the science of hugging to find out answers to these questions and understand his research on social touch. Sebastian Ocklenburg, Ph.D., is a professor for research methods in psychology at the Department of Psychology at MSH Medic...
This will Make You Laugh: lnterview with laughter yogi Pete Cann
April 05, 2022 14:00 - 59 minutes - 40.8 MBIn this episode we speak with the No.1 Laughter Yoga UK Facilitator, Pete Cann. Join along with some laughter exercises, and discover the therapeutic benefits of laughing including: Bonding with family, friends and colleges Techniques to release happy hormones how to laugh when life isn't very funny Find out more on Pete's website or visit his youtube channel for inspiration. https://www.youtube.com/c/PeteCann-TheLaughterMan
This will Make You Laugh: lnterview with laughter yogi Pete Cann
April 05, 2022 14:00 - 59 minutes - 40.8 MBIn this episode we speak with the No.1 Laughter Yoga UK Facilitator, Pete Cann. Join along with some laughter exercises, and discover the therapeutic benefits of laughing including: Bonding with family, friends and colleges Techniques to release happy hormones how to laugh when life isn't very funny Find out more on Pete's website or visit his youtube channel for inspiration. https://www.youtube.com/c/PeteCann-TheLaughterMan
Can virtual reality make us more caring? Interview with Professor Matthew Cotton
February 20, 2022 21:00 - 1 hour - 41.4 MBVirtual reality is more widely used than ever before - from virtual documentaries on social issues to the Metaverse and dance-off simulators. But can it be used to make us more empathetic? In this episode we we speak with Professor Matthew Cotton, Professor of Public Policy at Teesside University, UK. We discuss the use of VR in expanding our own experiences and seeing if the technology could have lasting impact on how we perceive other people. Professor Matthew Cotton is a Lecturer at...
Space is Cool as F***: Interview with author Kate Howells from the Planetary Society
June 05, 2021 09:00 - 1 hour - 55 MBOn this podcast we speak with Kate Howells, who represents The Planetary Society. We discuss defending earth, aliens, other worlds, space exploration and priorities. Kate is the author of Space Is Cool As F***, a science columnist for The Editorial Magazine, and creator, writer, and producer of the digital series Whoa. Kate serves on the Government of Canada's Space Advisory Board and is a trusted media source for expertise and analysis of Canadian space policy. Go to www.planetary.org ...
Giving up Porn. Interview with sex and addiction therapist Mig Bennett
February 02, 2021 21:00 - 56 minutes - 38.5 MBIs watching porn bad for you? Free websites and smart phones make it easier than ever to watch porn - and billions of us are doing just that. But some scientists are starting to worry about the consequences and there is a growing movement away from pornography led by young men negativity affected by "the new drug". We talk with experienced sex therapist Mig Bennett to find out some of the side effects of porn addiction. Mig works with individuals where pornography, online sexual encounter...
Living in a Cult: Interview with former Scientologist, Chris Shelton
October 26, 2020 16:00 - 1 hour - 75.1 MBIn this episode Leaf and Elfie meet former Scientology member Chris Shelton and talk about his 30 years of experience in the organisation. Chris now exposes Scientology and the psychology behind destructive cults. Watch chris on Youtube or on his website: www.mncriticalthinking.com
Hogwood Farm vs. Vegans: Interview with Viva! Founder, Juliet Gellatley
August 20, 2020 05:00 - 1 hour - 44.8 MBIn 2020, animal welfare charity Viva! launched 'Hogwood: A Modern Horror Story'. The documentary film is presented by Jerome Flynn and exposes the harrowing conditions on a Warwickshire pig farm. Their undercover footage ultimately forced big brand like Tesco to rethink their relationship with the company, but only after the animal-loving British public reacted to shocking scenes of abuse. Does the exposé highlight one 'bad apple' in the industry, or does it completely shatter the consumer...
Hogwood Farm vs. Vegans: Interview with Viva! Founder, Juliet Gellatley
August 20, 2020 05:00 - 1 hour - 44.8 MBIn 2020, animal welfare charity Viva! launched 'Hogwood: A Modern Horror Story'. The documentary film is presented by Jerome Flynn and exposes the harrowing conditions on a Warwickshire pig farm. Their undercover footage ultimately forced big brand like Tesco to rethink their relationship with the company, but only after the animal-loving British public reacted to shocking scenes of abuse. Does the exposé highlight one 'bad apple' in the industry, or does it completely shatter the consumer...
The Politics of Vegetarianism: Interview with MP Henry Smith
August 20, 2020 05:00 - 1 hour - 59 MBBrexit, animal welfare, legislation, schools, health - the food choices that we make are political. How does vegetarianism fit in? In this 'Vegetarian Special' podcast interview we speak with longtime animal rights campaigner, vegetarian and Conservative MP Henry Smith about the the challenges facing the UK. How might Brexit impact food standards e.g chlorinated chicken? Should care homes cater for our dietary choices in later life? What are issues around animal welfare legislation? ...
The Politics of Vegetarianism: Interview with MP Henry Smith
August 20, 2020 05:00 - 1 hour - 59 MBBrexit, animal welfare, legislation, schools, health - the food choices that we make are political. How does vegetarianism fit in? In this 'Vegetarian Special' podcast interview we speak with longtime animal rights campaigner, vegetarian and Conservative MP Henry Smith about the the challenges facing the UK. How might Brexit impact food standards e.g chlorinated chicken? Should care homes cater for our dietary choices in later life? What are issues around animal welfare legislation? ...
Quantum Science and Psychedelics: Interview with Dr Carl Johan Calleman
August 11, 2020 08:00 - 1 hour - 47.5 MBIn this episode Leaf and Elfie talk with Dr Carl Johan Calleman on the subject of Mayan Quantum Science and Psychedelics. Dr Calleman is recognized as a world authority on the Mayan Calendar and his latest book ‘Quantum Science of Psychedelics’ launched this year on worldwide release. We hear his theory that explains how psychedelics interact with the human mind to create altered states that may further the continued evolution of consciousness. Website: www.callemen.com Amazon book lin...
Get out of your comfort zone to beat anxiety: Interview with Ben Aldridge
July 30, 2020 07:00 - 51 minutes - 35.3 MBTo overcome anxiety and panic attacks, Ben Aldridge delves into the world of stoicism, Buddhism, CBT and extreme challenges. Ben's new book, How to be Comfortable with being Uncomfortable, is based on experiences building a resilient mind and body by getting out of his comfort zone in weird and wonderful ways including: Taking ice baths Climbing mountains Queuing unnecessarily Inducing vertigo Memorising a deck of cards Having an outrageous clothes day We talk to Ben about his '...
Get out of your comfort zone to beat anxiety: Interview with Ben Aldridge
July 30, 2020 07:00 - 51 minutes - 35.3 MBTo overcome anxiety and panic attacks, Ben Aldridge delves into the world of stoicism, Buddhism, CBT and extreme challenges. Ben's new book, How to be Comfortable with being Uncomfortable, is based on experiences building a resilient mind and body by getting out of his comfort zone in weird and wonderful ways including: Taking ice baths Climbing mountains Queuing unnecessarily Inducing vertigo Memorising a deck of cards Having an outrageous clothes day We talk to Ben about his '...
Young men in prison - what happens next? Interview with A Band of Brothers
July 16, 2020 11:00 - 59 minutes - 40.8 MBIt's a sad fact that young men often really struggle in our society. 95% of prisoners are men 80% of the homeless population is male 13 men every day will commit suicide In this episode we speak with Hugh Newton, who leads the training at award-winning charity 'A Band of Brothers'. The organisation has an unorthodox approach to "re-fathering" young men and takes inspiration from the rites of passage ceremonies in African culture. The charity has been successful in dramatically reducing...
Tea break with a sex toy tester
July 12, 2020 12:00 - 18 minutes - 12.8 MBHave a tea break with Leaf & Elfie. We meet Alicia Davison, a comedian with an interesting hobby. Put your feet up and hear about her experiences as a sex toy tester. Contains explicit content. Not suitable for under 18s.
Tea break with a sex toy tester
July 12, 2020 12:00 - 18 minutes - 12.8 MBHave a tea break with Leaf & Elfie. We meet Alicia Davison, a comedian with an interesting hobby. Put your feet up and hear about her experiences as a sex toy tester. Contains explicit content. Not suitable for under 18s.
What is boredom? Interview with cognitive neuroscientist, James Danckert
June 29, 2020 06:00 - 1 hour - 42.2 MBBoredom. We've all experienced it from time to time, but what does it actually do? Can it make us angry? Make us depressed? Slowly kill us? Or does it serve a less clear and more positive function? In this episode we speak to a Professor of Cognitive Neuroscientist and boredom 'expert', James Danckert who aims to answer these and many other boredom related questions in his research at the University of Waterloo. If you have ever wondered: Do animals get bored? How do I make people reall...
Getting pumped on greens: Interview with vegan bodybuilding champion, Sam Shorkey
June 22, 2020 08:00 - 1 hour - 42.2 MBPeople are taking up a plant-based diet to improve their health, help the environment or to address animal welfare concerns. Sam Shorkey is a pioneering body builder, fitness coach and first ever vegan World Naturals bikini pro. We catch up with Sam to discuss: Transitioning to a healthy vegan diet (without piling on pounds!) Building muscle and losing fat Highs and lows of bodybuilding bikini competitions Sam also shares her top tips for an instagram envied booty, that you can do at...
Romance with Robots: Interview with sex tech researcher, Eleanor Hancock
June 08, 2020 19:00 - 1 hour - 42.6 MBOur relationship with machines is changing. Artificial intelligence has changed the way we manufacture, spend our leisure time and gather information - but what does it mean for human intimacy in the future? In this episode we talk to sex tech researcher Eleonor Hancock who has interviewed sex workers, technology pioneers and robot enthusiasts to try to answer the questions: Will sex robots replace humans? What are the risks of artificial intelligence in the sex industry? How might crime ...
Body Language Secrets: Interview with former military interrogator Greg Hartley
June 03, 2020 14:00 - 1 hour - 65.1 MBHave you ever wanted to read somebody's mind? Reading their body language could be the key to unlocking what they REALLY think! Would it be powerful to know instantly when a person is telling you lies? To know when to push a bit harder in a business negotiation? Or perhaps you just want to know if your crush fancies you... In this episode Leaf and Elfie talk to former military interrogator and body language expert Greg Hartley. Greg's expertise as an interrogator first earned him honors wi...
Clever vibrators and the rise of cyberdildonics: Interview with Eleanor Hancock
June 03, 2020 14:00 - 46 minutes - 32.1 MBThe sex toy business is booming during Covid-19 lockdown. Many couples are apart and frankly, we're all in need of a little TLC. In this episode, Leaf and Elfie meet Eleanor Hancock, a researcher from leading sex-tech company Kiiroo to talk about the rise and evolution of "teledildonics". The award winning company has been at the forefront of developing futuristic sex toys from their home in the liberal city of Amsterdam since 2013. Mind-reading dildos powered by brainwaves, virtual reali...
How to live 'green' on a budget: Interview with eco-blogger Zoe Morrison
May 31, 2020 12:00 - 50 minutes - 34.9 MBCovid-19 has left many people jobless or struggling with a reduced income. It's been a testing and stressful time. In contrast, for some its also been a time to appreciate nature, our families and give the planet a long-overdue rest from some of the pollution that human activities inflict. In this episode Zoe Morrison, award winning eco-blogger and author of the money saving book 'Eco thrifty living' shares her tips for transitioning to a greener and thrifty lifestyle. Her pragmatic appro...
How to live 'green' on a budget: Interview with eco-blogger Zoe Morrison
May 31, 2020 12:00 - 50 minutes - 34.9 MBCovid-19 has left many people jobless or struggling with a reduced income. It's been a testing and stressful time. In contrast, for some its also been a time to appreciate nature, our families and give the planet a long-overdue rest from some of the pollution that human activities inflict. In this episode Zoe Morrison, award winning eco-blogger and author of the money saving book 'Eco thrifty living' shares her tips for transitioning to a greener and thrifty lifestyle. Her pragmatic appro...