Last updated September 25, 2024 – 1:52 p.m.
Brave New World, the Evening Standard science podcast hosted by Evgeny Lebedev, is returning for a third series.
This podcast explores the latest research from the scientists, thought leaders, and intellectuals who are shaping the future and changing our culture.
We will also discuss the various solutions experts propose to address the anxieties and health issues facing modern society, as well as cutting-edge medical advances and what they mean for the future of humanity.
Topics covered in the new series range from the psychedelic renaissance, longevity and aging, AI, and spirituality.
In the first episode, Lord Lebedev meets with renowned author, physician, and alternative medicine pioneer Deepak Chopra to hear his thoughts on the future of healthcare, the role of technology and consciousness, and his new book, Digital Dharma: How AI Can Enhance Spiritual Intelligence and Personal Well-Being.
Chopra will discuss how advances in fields such as epigenetics, neuroplasticity, and virtual/augmented reality are changing our understanding of reality.
He believes the future of healthcare will involve more self-treatment through immersive virtual experiences that directly impact biology and health.
Chopra also delves into the philosophical and spiritual aspects of consciousness, explaining that the reality we perceive is a construct of the mind, and that true reality lies in the infinite, incomprehensible source of all experience.
Other guests and topics appearing in the series include Helen Mirren on faith, Peter Attiah on longevity, Steven Pinker on the curse of defeatism, George Church (with guest star Sir Ian McKellan) on genomics, Jim Poole on stress and sleep management, Mustafa Hamada on neuroscience and brain health, Tim Spector on combating obesity, Jordan Peterson on the carnivore diet and Aubrey de Grey on the possibility of eternal life.
Brave New World was inspired in part by Sir Lebedev's journey to better his health and in part by his grandfather, Vladimir Sokolov, a renowned Soviet biologist and zoologist who is considered one of the pioneers of the environmental movement.
Speaking about the series' return, Evgeny Lebedov said: “It's been an honor to talk to such amazing people on Brave New World, so I'm very happy to be back and offer even more fascinating conversations to our listeners.”
“Speaking with some of the best scientists, thinkers and futurists of our generation inspires me to keep learning, and I hope listeners leave enlightened and excited about our future.”
Series three of Brave New World premieres today, Thursday 26th September, with future episodes releasing every two weeks.
