Join us for the festive edition of the Dementia Researcher Podcast, where familiar faces and voices from our blogs gather to reflect on the past year and look ahead to 2025.
Hosted by Adam Smith, this unscripted episode features engaging conversations with regular bloggers and researchers Dr Jodi Watt, Dr Sam Moxon, Dr Cliona Farrell, Dr Anna Volkmer and Dr Connor Richardson. From discussions on drug repurposing in dementia to the challenges of running a spinout company, the podcast blends professional insights with light-hearted festive banter, including debates on vegan Christmas dinners and the quintessential question of whether Yorkshire puddings belong on a Christmas plate.
Top five take-aways:
- New Horizons in Dementia Research: As the field evolves, researchers are not just sticking to the status quo. They're boldly venturing into entrepreneurial roles and innovative projects that could shake up how we approach dementia care.
- Culinary Controversies: The great debate on what makes a proper holiday meal adds a dash of humor. Whether it's defending the place of Yorkshire puddings or exploring vegan alternatives, it's clear that food is as much a part of science culture as the latest research!
- From Lab to Lifestyle: Discussions about the impact of diet on dementia bring home the point that what we eat does more than just fill our stomachs—it might also help our brains. It's food for thought that could change lives!
- Holiday Hilarity: The researchers share their quirkiest holiday traditions and favorite festive foods, reminding us that scientists are just as ready to embrace the spirit of the season with gusto and a touch of whimsy.
- Anticipating Adventures in 2025: As the new year approaches, the community buzzes with anticipation for the discoveries that lie ahead. It's a mix of excitement and mystery that keeps the field dynamic and engaging.
The festive poem:
A Dementia Researcher's Festive Gathering
Gather 'round the podcast's cheerful glow, Where Adam Smith leads the festive show. Jodi, Anna, Sam, and Cliona share, With Connor chiming from his chair.
In the season's merry, bright refrain, They discuss the year, its loss and gain. Research triumphs and trials they recount, Each story adding up to a vast amount.
The Velvetiser stirs a chocolate dream, Amid the research and the steam. A warming cup, a sweet reprieve, As they chat about what they believe.
Jodi Watt speaks of drugs with new roles, While Anna Volkmer reflects on goals. Sam Moxon, with his vegan plate, Debates on foods that might abate.
Cliona Farrell, with her keen insight, Talks of genetics' guiding light. Connor Richardson, in festive wear, Laughs about data, with flair to spare.
From Yorkshire puddings’ rightful place, To future projects they'll embrace, This festive podcast, bright and wise, Brings science home 'neath holiday skies.
As cocoa swirls in the Velvetiser's care, Their voices rise in the crisp winter air. To all listening, near and far, Happy holidays, wherever you are!
This spirited gathering, under twinkling starlight, Leaves us warmed by the fire’s bright light, Anticipating the year anew, With minds refreshed and insights true.
If you would like to share your own experiences or discuss your research in a blog or on a podcast, drop us a line to dementiaresearcher@ucl.ac.uk
Did you know... you can find our podcast in your favourite podcast app on mobile devices, and our narrated blogs are also available as a podcast.
The views and opinions expressed by the host and guests in this podcast represent those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect those of UCL or Dementia Researcher
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Rebecca Williams
Dr Sam Moxon
