Show Me the Science with Luke O'Neill

Why do some speeches stick in your mind while others fade before the applause ends? In this unusual episode of Show Me The Science, Professor Luke O’Neill swaps the lab for the lectern to reveal the science of captivating public speaking. Drawing on decades of experience addressing audiences from classrooms to conferences, Luke shares his top tips for giving speeches that resonate, whether it’s a best man’s toast, a heartfelt eulogy, or a high-stakes commencement address. With a major speech coming up — delivering the honorary doctorate address at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland — Luke breaks down everything from crafting a strong opening and telling stories that emotionally connect, to structuring your talk so the audience follows every point. He stresses clarity and simplicity, authenticity over imitation, and the importance of ending on a note that inspires action. You can’t fake charisma, Luke warns, but you can sound inspired by yourself. And yes, he insists ChatGPT should stay out of your speech-writing. Along the way, Luke highlights the viral speech by American author Brad Meltzer, showing how structure, storytelling, and authenticity can make a short talk unforgettable. For anyone looking to improve public speaking skills, learn how to engage an audience, or simply survive the nerve-wracking moments of standing in front of a crowd, this podcast is packed with practical, scientifically-informed advice delivered with Luke’s trademark humour. Watch the Brad Meltzer speech that inspired Luke here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSO_t39lszo Got a quirky science topic you want Luke to tackle next? Send your suggestions to laoneill@tcd.ie — your idea could be featured in a future episode. 

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) - has long baffled doctors and patients alike. It leaves people with crushing fatigue, brain fog, pain, sleep disturbance and a body that just won’t bounce back after even mild exertion. For too many sufferers, it’s meant years of being dismissed, neglected, or told it was all in their head. But the science is finally moving forward. Two landmark studies have now given researchers their best clues yet into what drives ME/CFS, and how we might one day diagnose and treat it. Professor Luke O’Neill unpacks the breakthroughs. The largest-ever genetic study of ME, involving 27,000 patients, has identified eight genetic markers, many linked to immune response and pain. One possibility: in some people, a viral infection flips the immune system into permanent overdrive, leaving the body acting as if it’s still fighting off a virus long after recovery. Another study drilled down into blood markers, immune responses and gut bacteria, feeding the data through an AI algorithm. With 90% accuracy, it could tell who had ME and who didn’t. It’s complex, expensive science, but it shows why so many patients also report IBS and gut disturbances, and why AI may hold the key to future diagnostics. Luke explains why the condition is more common in women, why drug treatments may be more realistic than vaccines, and why he’s optimistic this research will lead to better therapies. For the 20,000 people in Ireland — and 70 million worldwide — living with ME/CFS, it’s a hopeful sign that science is finally catching up. And if you’re living with CFS, Luke advises talking to your GP about medication, referral options and lifestyle strategies that can help manage symptoms in the meantime. Got a burning science question you’d like Luke to tackle in a future episode? Drop him a line at laoneill@tcd.ie — he’d love to hear your ideas. 

This week, Luke rolls up his sleeves to tackle a listener request from Danny and Caroline. Caroline’s living with osteoarthritis, so stem cells seemed like just the ticket for discussion. We start with the basics: stem cells are the body’s precursors, the young all-rounders that can grow into brain neurons, cartilage-makers, or insulin-producing pancreatic cells. In theory, they can be coaxed into replacing damaged tissue—making them, as Luke puts it, a sort of “living drug.” The story begins with leukemia treatment, where donor bone marrow can regrow an entire immune system, sometimes with cure rates of up to 90%. We also meet “bubble baby disease” (SCID), where stem cells can give a child the immune system they never had. From fertilised eggs (the ultimate stem cell) to Nobel prize-winning frog cloning, Luke traces the remarkable science that shows every cell in your body carries the full blueprint for making you. He explains the controversies over embryonic stem cell research, the promise of adult-derived mesenchymal stem cells, and the exciting rise of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) which are adult cells reprogrammed to behave like embryonic ones. No FDA-approved stem-cell therapies for major diseases just yet, but Parkinson’s trials are showing some glimmers of hope. For osteoarthritis, Luke’s verdict is: stem cells “might help a bit,” but the science isn’t slam-dunk yet, especially when you’re injecting cells into a joint that never stops moving. Other targets, like heart and lung disease, may turn out to be better bets. The market for stem-cell therapies could hit a billion dollars by 2031, so expect plenty of hype and, hopefully, plenty of progress. In the meantime, we’ve got real breakthroughs, fascinating biology, and Luke’s usual mix of optimism and caution. Got a topic you’d like Luke to tackle? Email laoneill@tcd.ie and your idea might make it onto the show.  

In this lively episode of Show Me The Science, Professor Luke O’Neill gets into a topic that has been… well, a very long time coming: male contraception. While women have had the contraceptive pill since the 1960s, giving them control over their reproductive choices (and giving men, frankly, an easy ride), the search for a safe, reliable male birth control has been slow. Luke examines why – and whether science might finally be about to deliver. At the heart of this week’s discussion is Adam, a pioneering non-hormonal male contraceptive hydrogel. It’s injected into the vas deferens (yes, there), and in early trials it stopped sperm production for up to two years without noticeable side effects. Think of it as blocking the road before the traffic even starts moving. Adam is the most advanced of the non-surgical male contraception options in development, and Luke explains how it stacks up against hormonal gels, male contraceptive injections, and pills that mess with sperm production or motility. Luke also takes a trip down contraceptive memory lane, recalling the history of the contraceptive pill and the work of Carl Djerassi, its so-called “father.” (Luke even met him once.) The hormones in the original pill came from steroids derived from the yucca plant – so, in a sense, a humble desert shrub helped spark a social revolution. But the female pill also brought side effects, and it put the lion’s share of responsibility for contraception firmly on women’s shoulders. From there, Luke dives into the science behind hormonal male contraception. He explains how progesterone can suppress sperm production in men, much as it stops egg release in women – but with the risk of affecting libido and muscle strength. Solutions like a transdermal gel combining nestorone and testosterone are showing promise, with one Phase 2 male contraceptive trial already a success. Then there are more unusual approaches: YCT529, which interferes with vitamin A’s role in sperm production (without wrecking your eyesight, hopefully); adjudin, which stops sperm from sticking; and EP055, which stops sperm tails from spinning – because no spin means no swim. But science isn’t the only barrier. Sociologists point out that one reason for the slow rollout is trust – or lack of it. Put bluntly, some worry men might forget to take a daily pill. (Luke admits we can be a bit… feckless.) The FDA also hasn’t approved a male pill yet, in part due to low levels of testing and potential side effects. Long-lasting options like monthly patches or injectable gels could bypass the “Oops, I forgot” problem entirely. Back to Adam: Luke’s cautiously optimistic. The early human trials are tiny, but the data so far is encouraging. He wants to see much bigger studies, peer-reviewed results, and expert scrutiny from reproductive scientists and hydrogel specialists before anyone calls it a game-changer. And, as always, there’s the matter of cost – will new male contraceptives be priced like condoms, or more like designer handbags? From yucca plants to hydrogel injections, and from hormonal chemistry to the politics of gender and contraceptive responsibility, this episode takes a smart, wry, and sometimes cheeky look at the future of male birth control. If these innovations succeed, they could change the conversation – and the responsibility – for good. Got a question or an idea for a future episode? Send it straight to Luke at laoneill@tcd.ie. He promises to read it, and he probably won’t make fun of you on air. 

In this episode, suggested by listener Barbara Douglas, Luke dives into a timely and important topic: listeria, the bacteria behind a recent outbreak in Ireland that led to recalls of ready meals and salad products by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland. One person has sadly died and nine others have been affected by listeriosis, the illness caused by listeria. Luke explores why this particular outbreak has caught the attention of scientists and public health officials – especially since one batch of reheatable ready meals was implicated, even though heat usually destroys the bacteria. Luke, who has studied listeria in his own lab, explains how this remarkably resilient bacterium can survive in cold, salty, acidic, and even frozen conditions – making it a stealthy threat in food products like soft cheese, pâté, smoked salmon, and now, ready meals. You'll learn: Why pregnant women are 20 times more susceptible to listeria – and how it can contribute to miscarriage or stillbirth Why people who are immunocompromised, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, are also at higher risk How listeria spreads from soil, surfaces, water, and even through sewage and poor hand hygiene Why soap is still one of our best defences What the symptoms are – and how penicillin and antibiotics remain effective treatments Why there’s no vaccine, and why Alexander Fleming still deserves thanks today Discovered in 1926 and named after antiseptics pioneer Joseph Lister, listeria remains a bacteria to watch, but also one we can guard against with good hygiene and proper food safety practices. Luke also commends the FSAI for their rapid response in identifying sources and protecting the public. 💡 As always, if you’ve got a burning science topic you’d like to hear about on the podcast, drop Luke a line at laoneill@tcd.ie. That’s exactly what listener Barbara Douglas did—and look what happened!   

What happens to our brains and bodies when we gather with thousands of strangers at music festivals, concerts, or gigs? This week, as All Together Now kicks off in Curraghmore, County Waterford, Professor Luke O’Neill dives into the fascinating science of crowd behaviour – and why being part of a crowd can feel so good, or sometimes so dangerous. Humans are, at heart, social animals. We evolved to thrive in groups — for protection, for connection, and even for love. Whether you're losing yourself in a packed mosh pit, swaying with strangers to your favourite band, or experiencing a collective chant under the night sky, there’s a deep biological and psychological process at work. Luke explores how music festivals spark a surge in oxytocin, the so-called “magic hormone” that fuels feelings of bonding, euphoria and transcendence. He also explains how we unconsciously mirror one another in crowds, sometimes entering what he describes as a social “trance.” But it’s not all good vibes. History is full of examples of how crowds can turn deadly when density goes too far, leadership breaks down, or panic spreads. Luke unpacks the science of crowd crushes, fluid dynamics, and behavioural prediction — including real-world examples from Pamplona’s Bull Run to school corridors, and from murmurations of starlings to stampeding buffalo. We learn how the best defence against crowd risk might be shared passion — if everyone’s there for the same reason, the group behaves more cooperatively, instinctively regulating itself. That’s why the safest crowd at a festival might just be the one most in love with the music. If you're heading to a festival or concert this weekend, enjoy the crowd — you’re not just part of the atmosphere, you are the science. 🎧 Newstalk will be live at All Together Now all weekend from the Go Loud Lounge on site, with a packed schedule of interviews, games, and live events. Keep an eye on Newstalk’s socials for the full festival lineup. 🔗 More info: newstalk.com/all-together-now  📸 Instagram: @newstalkfm  🎵 TikTok: @newstalk 📬 Have a question or topic suggestion for Luke? Email him directly at laoneill@tcd.ie 

In this week's podcast, Professor Luke O’Neill dives into the fascinating world of tech billionaires and their obsession with extending human life. He takes a closer look at four high-profile figures—Larry Page, Peter Thiel, Brian Johnson, and Jack Dorsey—and explores their personal and financial investments in the science of longevity.From bizarre diets to blood transfusions and even cryogenic preservation, Luke unpacks the sometimes extreme measures these men are taking to live longer. He also visits Calico, a Google-backed biotech company where around 150 scientists are studying the biology of aging—research that includes creatures like naked mole rats and bats.Luke examines how wealth impacts life expectancy, discusses the current global average lifespan of 73 years, and explores the scientific debate around whether humans might one day live up to 150. He also offers realistic, evidence-based tips for anyone hoping to extend their own life—no billionaire status required.💡Takeaway:You don’t need to be a tech mogul to live longer. While billionaires explore the edges of science, simple, proven lifestyle choices may still be the most powerful tools we have for a longer, healthier life.💡 Got a science topic you'd love Professor Luke to cover?Email your suggestions to laoneill@tcd.ie – your idea might feature in a future episode!

As Ireland basks in an unusual spell of hot weather, many are dealing with another less-welcome side effect of summer: hayfever. In this week’s episode of Show Me the Science, Professor Luke O’Neill unpacks the biology behind this common allergic reaction and explains the science that’s literally in the air.Luke explores what hayfever actually is – and clears up a common misconception: despite the name, hay itself isn’t the cause. He looks back at when hayfever was first diagnosed, how our immune system responds to pollen, and why different types of pollen (from trees, grass, or weeds) affect people in different ways.You’ll also learn about leukotrienes, powerful immune system chemicals that play a big role in allergic reactions (and which sound suspiciously like Luke O’Neill’s name). He discusses why some people are more prone to hayfever than others, and introduces the hygiene hypothesis, a theory suggesting that being exposed to a bit of dirt — or even your in-laws, as he jokes — might actually help your immune system in the long run.Finally, Luke explains how antihistamines work, why they help relieve symptoms like sneezing and itchy eyes, and why they don’t always provide complete relief.Whether you're suffering from seasonal allergies, curious about how the immune system overreacts to harmless particles, or just looking to understand why hayfever seems to hit harder some years, this episode is packed with useful, science-based insights.💡 Got a science topic you'd love Professor Luke to cover?Email your suggestions to laoneill@tcd.ie – your idea might feature in a future episode!

In this week’s episode of Show Me The Science, Professor Luke tackles a topic that has been requested: the shingles vaccine. Recent studies suggest that getting vaccinated not only decreases your risk of shingles but might also reduce the chances of developing dementia by 20% for those over 50. Luke dives into how the shingles vaccine works, explaining the underlying science behind the varicella zoster virus and the two main vaccines available, Shingrix and Zostavax. He discusses the remarkable efficacy of Shingrix, the implications of recent research, and why understanding these vaccines is crucial for health, particularly as dementia rates continue to rise. Join Luke as he unravels the fascinating connection between shingles vaccination and cognitive health!

In this week's episode of Show Me The Science, Professor Luke dives into the intriguing topic of "manopause." Is there really a parallel transition for men similar to women's menopause? Luke explores the scientific evidence behind the fatigue, depression, and libido changes reported by many men in their middle years.He juxtaposes this with the well-studied menopause in women, uncovering fascinating insights about the role of grandmothers in the survival of offspring in certain whale species. Luke also unpacks how testosterone levels change with age in men and examines the controversial realm of testosterone replacement therapy.

In this caffeinated episode of Show Me The Science, Luke dives into the fascinating world of coffee! From its rich history to its surprising health benefits, discover why this beloved brew has captured the hearts—and minds—of millions.Luke explores the science behind caffeine and how it keeps us alert by blocking adenosine in the brain. He unpacks the complex chemistry of coffee, revealing compounds that might help reduce inflammation and even guard against certain cancers. But it's not all good news—Luke also highlights some potential drawbacks, especially for menopausal women, and shares a wild story about the most expensive coffee in the world. Grab your cup and join the conversation about the science of coffee!

In this episode of Show Me The Science, Professor Luke delves into the intriguing relationship between magnesium and sleep, sparked by a listener's request. Is there any truth to the claims that magnesium supplements can help you catch some Zs? Luke explores the essential role of magnesium in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body and how it affects processes like DNA replication and energy production. While there are plausible theories suggesting magnesium's potential to aid sleep, the scientific evidence remains unclear. Join Luke as he navigates the science behind this mineral and its link to your nightly slumber! Zzzzzz....

In this episode, Professor Luke dives into the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. From cutting-edge research to practical applications, the breakthroughs in AI are not only fascinating but potentially transformative.Discover how innovative tools like the 'co-scientist' AI could revolutionize scientific collaboration, and explore the unique educational potential of AI using historical figures and fictional characters as virtual teachers. We'll also delve into the curious emergence of virtual companions designed to reduce loneliness and the profound implications of AI in arguments and decision-making. Join Luke as he navigates through the promising and sometimes concerning landscape of AI development that could reshape our future!

In this week’s episode, Luke O'Neill dives into the fascinating science of revision just in time for the leaving cert exams! Discover essential tips to improve your study techniques and enhance your exam performance, whether you’re cramming or preparing ahead.Luke shares scientifically backed strategies, from the importance of planning and taking breaks to the benefits of methods like mind mapping and 'blurting.' Learn how to maximize retention and reduce anxiety, all while boosting your confidence.Happy studying!

Thanks to St Patrick, we’re fine here in Ireland… However, around the world there are 140,000 deaths per year due to snake bites!New research has shown that a universal treatment for snake bites may soon be possible.How has an 18-year hobby of keeping pet snakes, turned into the basis for a universal anti-venom?This is episode 218 - The Science Of Snake Venom.

Over drinking, smoking and lack of exercise can cause major damage from an early age.Luke takes a look at what this does to our body & why we are less able to deal with it all as we get older.Lets dive in and find out how does overindulgence affect out Metal & physical health…

We all know what it is, but why is this a fascinating subject to science?What is the urea cycle?How do we clear out the toxins?And why is the color so important?Welcome to episode 216: The Science Of Urine

After recent new discoveries, Luke looks at The Science of Lab Grown Meat.You can now buy lab grown meat in pet food, but will it soon be in the shops for human consumption?Why is there massive investment in this new industry?And how is this lab grown meat saving the planet?

A very import request in this week, from Shane Conway.Shane’s mother has sadly passed away from Motor Neurone Disease.Such an important topic, so this week Luke looks at The Science of Motor Neurone Disease…

This week, it’s a request from Sean, in which he asks Luke to look at the Science Of Coeliac Disease.Lets dive in and look at how this family of proteins i.e. gluten can cause pain to the small intestine.Why does the immune system over react in response to gluten?1 in 100 people in Ireland have been diagnosed with it, but how can science help?This week, it’s the Science Of Coeliac Disease.