Virtual 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 Teesside University and author of the book Virtual Reality, empathy and ethics 

On 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 for more information - sign up for the newsletter or/and become a member of The Planetary Society.

Is 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 encounters, multiple affairs or use of sex workers is negatively affecting their lives and relationships.To find out more about Mig's work with individuals and couples visit: www.migbennettrelationshipcounselling.co.ukFor more information and online support please visit:No Fap Community  www.nofap.comThe Association for the Treatment of Sexual Addiction and Compulsivity www.atsac.org.uk 

In 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

In 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 consumers' idyllic image of farming?In this interview, we meet Viva charity Founder and Director Juliet Gellatley and find out about the UK's factory farming industry. Warning: Contains descriptions of animal cruelty that some listeners may find disturbing. To watch the documentary visit Amazon: Hogwood: A Modern Horror story For vegan recipes, advice and details of Viva's charitable work: Viva website

Brexit, 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? Should dolphins be criminalised for getting high on puffer fish? To follow MP Henry Smith on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HenrySmithUK

In 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.comAmazon book link: Quantum Science and Psychedelics

To 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 bathsClimbing mountainsQueuing unnecessarily Inducing vertigo Memorising a deck of cardsHaving an outrageous clothes day We talk to Ben about his 'Anti-bucket List' and learn his tips for overcoming anxiety and living a fuller, more exciting life. Why not get uncomfortable and experience personal growth gained from pushing yourself to the limit? Join Ben's following online for more information. www.benaldridge.com Instagram: @dothingsthatchallengeyouTwitter: @iambenaldridge

It's a sad fact that young men often really struggle in our society.95% of prisoners are men80% 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 the reoffending rate of young men and brings along with it a greater sense of community for men of all ages. For more information about the charity visit www.abandofbrothers.org.ukFollow on Twitter @band_brothersukLike on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABOBcommunity

Have 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.