Radio Cherwell

Science & Beyond: Matters of the Heart - Conversations with a Cardiac Surgeon Part 2

Listen to Radio Cherwell and find out more about our programmes online at radiocherwell.com. This is a Radio Cherwell Original Podcast ------------------------------------ Hosted by: Aleksandra Jedlinska We return to Matters of the Heart: Conversations with Cardiac Surgeons for Part 2 with Philip Kay, whose reflections move seamlessly from the operating theatre to the wider world. He shares a poignant story close to home that reshaped him as a surgeon- reminding him that technical mastery means little without empathy. From discussing the tactile precision of closed mitral valvotomy, a pre–heart-lung machine procedure performed by feel rather than sight, to recommending his memoir My Hands Have Held 10,000 Hearts, this episode becomes a trip through his life. That journey stretches far beyond medicine: an eye-opening Volkswagen minibus adventure through Florence, Greece, and Turkey, home through Austria, Germany, and the Netherlands- with Paris later on winning romantically as the fountains danced at the Palace of Versailles. The adventure continues across generations, returning every five years to Wengen beneath the Eiger in Switzerland, witnessing elephant herds in Chobe National Park in Botswana, standing in awe at Machu Picchu in Peru, and exploring the wildlife of the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. Along the way, Philip Kay offers heartfelt advice to medical students: stay curious, honour the pioneers before you, and never lose sight of the human being behind the diagnosis. And stay tuned- there’s a quiz at the end to test how closely you’ve followed this remarkable trip through surgery, family, and a lifetime of learning of both Mr Philip Kay and Mr Bil Kirmani.

Science & Beyond: Matters of the Heart - Conversations with a Cardiac Surgeon Part 1

Listen to Radio Cherwell and find out more about our programmes online at radiocherwell.com. This is a Radio Cherwell Original Podcast Hosted by: Aleksandra Jedlinska --------------------------------------- In this episode, we sit down with Mr Bil Kirmani and Mr Philip Kay- two figures who have helped shape modern cardiac surgery, one still at the operating table, and one now reflecting on a remarkable career. Beyond the technical skills, they reveal the deeply human side of the speciality by sharing heartwarming experiences, defining lessons, and the lasting impact of mentorship and lifelong learning. Together, we journeyed through time to reflect on the early and often humble beginnings of cardiac surgery, revisiting landmark developments of CABG, coronary angioplasty, and closed mitral valvotomy. The conversation traces pivotal turning points in surgical history, including a darkly notorious amputation of Robert Liston, to the induction of cold cardioplegia to safely stop the heart in diastole, which changed the landscape of what was surgically possible. Mr Kirmani also recounts an unforgettable operation, featuring a dazzling pink prosthesis and a life-changing second chance for a patient- an unforgettable reminder of the responsibility, humility, and privilege that come with operating on the human heart. A thoughtful, reflective journey through innovation, history, and humanity... that is certainly not one to miss listening to! I sincerely hope that this episode will spark the same sense of wonder and inspiration as it did for me to create this.

Science & Beyond: Young Minds, Big Ideas!

Listen to Radio Cherwell and find out more about our programmes online at radiocherwell.com. This is a Radio Cherwell Original Podcast Hosted by: Aleksandra Jedlinska This podcast takes listeners on an engaging journey through the world of science, featuring conversations with Year 9 students from Cheney School. Through hands-on experiments and thought-provoking discussions, we explore key scientific concepts- starting with distillation, filtration, and the fascinating chemistry of orange oil, uncovering its unique properties and applications. The journey continues with an exploration of the periodic table, where we examine the vibrant colours metals produce when ignited, revealing the underlying principles behind these striking reactions. The discussion then shifts to the surprising genetic history of the lemon- tracing its evolution as a man-made fruit, a cross between a citron and a bitter orange. Using genome mapping, we track its development, uncovering the science behind its origins. But beyond the experiments and discoveries, this episode reflects on the joy of asking questions, the thrill of uncovering new knowledge, and the rewarding experience of sharing science in an engaging way.

Science & Beyond: Life in Leeds

Listen to Radio Cherwell and find out more about our programmes online at radiocherwell.com. This is a Radio Cherwell Original Podcast Hosted by: Aleksandra Jedlinska In this episode, I share a glimpse into my first year studying medicine at the University of Leeds, a year filled with discovery, inspiration, and a growing appreciation for the city’s unique rhythm. I’m joined by Professor Moe Oo, Head of the Leeds MBChB Programme and consultant in geriatrics, who offers fascinating insights into his career in medicine, the evolving landscape of medical education, and what it means to guide the next generation of doctors. Beyond campus, this episode explores the vibrant spirit of Leeds through two standout local ventures. At Sips, the city’s tiniest matcha stand, students and locals gather for their daily dose of calm and caffeine. Just a short walk away, Taco Bite, nestled by the Trinity Shopping Centre, serves up authentic flavours and a taste of global culture that captures the energy of the city’s streets. This most recent episode paints a portrait of Leeds that’s become my daily life, and I enjoy sharing this adventure with you all!

Science & Beyond: Sleep - The Overlooked Superpower

Listen to Radio Cherwell and find out more about our programmes online at radiocherwell.com. This is a Radio Cherwell Original Podcast Hosted by: Aleksandra Jedlinska In this episode, I’m joined by two leading voices shaping the future of sleep. I begin with Lisa Artis from The Sleep Charity, exploring the organisation’s major milestones, its growing national impact, and the practical habits that define strong sleep hygiene. Lisa breaks down what really works, why consistent routines matter, and how small changes can transform nightly rest. Next, Dr. Nicola Barclay, Senior Postdoctoral Researcher in Sleep Medicine at the University of Oxford, shares insights from her team’s latest trials focused on people experiencing sleep difficulties alongside anxiety or depression. We discuss how listeners can take part, why this research matters, and how understanding sleep more deeply can open new pathways to improved mental health. Enquiries: spectrum.study@ndcn.ox.ac.uk [spectrum.study@ndcn.ox.ac.uk].