In this episode I was joined by the creator of online video hit Everything Is A Remix, Kirby Ferguson. Kirby's first series was described by The Guardian as: "...occasionally feeling like a PowerPoint presentation by the world's most coked-up history professor." While Kirby's documentary style is satisfyingly fast paced his conversational style is deliberate and demonstrative.

Kirby's current series, This Is Not A Conspiracy Theory, explores the ideas, events, and human quirks that contribute to the modern political landscape. Kirby's process is as intriguing as his videos and in the second half of the interview I explore his unique approach to his work.

Our discussion included but was not limited to:

• The important difference between work and practice.
• The difference between a conspiracy and a conspiracy theory.
• How the internet can help convince us that we're right.
• The human desire to see meaning in patterns.
• How Copy-Transform-Combine is the core of the creative process.
• Kirby explains the benefits of releasing his work episodically.

Enjoy the episode. Dave

For full episode notes please visit inspirelandpodcast.com

What is the purpose of your life? This is the question that Dr Joe Marshalla found himself asking after a near death experience. Dr Joe uses his unique blend of philosophy, psychology, spirituality, and physics to communicate his philosophy of life to the world. This philosophy is best expressed in his thought provoking book, Repeatlessness: An owner's manual for the human mind. 

During our conversation we discussed:

• The impact of GMO chemicals on the ecology of his home in Hawaii.
• What all religions have in common.
• How we can live meaningful, authentic lives.
• How parents can create a team ethic with their kids.

For full episode notes visit inspirelandpodcast.com.

Thanks for listening, Dave.

In episode 28 I was joined by gregarious geneticist Aoife McLysaght. Aoife works in the Molecular Evolution Lab in Trinity College, Dublin. Aoife is currently engaged in a European Research Council funded search for genes that cause diseases. Sadly for me Aoife debunked my favourite genetic myth when she told me that you can't have a healthier child by exercising immediately prior to conceiving!

Our conversation covered the following topics:

1. Where Aoife's love of science came from.
2. Why Aoife chose to focus on genetics.
3. Why the traits of recessive genes don't disappear.
4. Why it's my Mother's fault I'm going bald.
5. The ethical problems with patenting genes.
6. The importance of public engagement to understanding of science.
7. Why one of Aoife's student left to join the circus.

For full episode notes go to my blog at inspirelandpodcast. Enjoy the show. Dave