In this enlightening episode of Join the Docs , the ever-curious Professor Jonathan Sackier and the delightfully witty Doctor Nigel Guest dive deep into the gray matter ( pun absolutely intended ) to untangle the mysteries of the human brain and its trusty sidekick, the nervous system. Who are the guests this week? Joining this week is the insightful Ione Georgakis , an Occupational Therapist and Advocacy Manager for Tourette Action and Dr. Ed Palmer, a fellow Tourette expert and psychiatrist.. ...
Dec 10, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 45
Why is breast cancer awareness such a critical topic for everyone? In this engaging pulls-no-punches podcast episode, our charismatic duo— Doctor Nigel Guest and Professor Jonathan Sackier are joined by Dr Liz O'Riordan as they unravel the mysteries of breast cancer awareness, screening, and treatment. You see, Liz is not just a breast surgeon, she is also a breast cancer patient and has used her knowledge, sense of humour and desire to educate to get the message out. Who knew our two Docs could...
Nov 26, 2024•1 hr•Ep. 44
In this special live episode of Join the Docs , recorded amid the lively buzz of the Cheerful Ear Podcast Festival, our beloved medical duo—surgeon and pun enthusiast Jonathan Sackier , and GP-turned-stand-up-comedian Nigel Guest —step out from behind the mic and onto the stage to bring their comedic clinic to a live audience. It’s not your typical episode; instead of their usual studio setup, Jonathan and Nigel dive into the quirks and curiosities of healthcare with real-time reactions, laughte...
Nov 12, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 43
In this captivating and thoroughly engaging episode of Join the Docs, our dynamic duo, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest , embark on an enlightening and comprehensive journey into the intricate labyrinth of the human brain and nervous system. They unravel the tangled web of neurological diseases, with a special spotlight on multiple sclerosis (MS). This isn't just a superficial overview; The Docs delve deep into the brain's complex structure, its multifaceted functions, and the c...
Oct 29, 2024•57 min•Ep. 42
In this rib-tickling episode of Join the Docs , Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest take listeners on a wild ride through the zany world of sports mishaps, where the unexpected meets the utterly ridiculous. As always, their sharp wit and infectious banter set the tone, making even the most jaw-dropping, or finger-ripping injuries feel like punchlines in an elaborate comedy routine. How can athletes go from hero to zero in seconds? The show kicks off with a lineup of pre-game blunde...
Oct 15, 2024•34 min•Ep. 41
Why did Queen Elizabeth I look like she was auditioning for a role in a ghost story? In this episode of Join the Docs, our dynamic duo, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Dr. Nigel Guest , take a spook-tacular yet enlightening plunge into the world of historical beauty practices. They shine a spotlight on the iconic Queen Elizabeth I, whose beauty regimen had her looking as white as a sheet twith an approach as dangerous as a game of dodgeball with porcupines. The societal preference for pale skin b...
Oct 08, 2024•8 min•Ep. 40
Why did the bacterium cross the road? To get to the Join the Docs podcast, of course! In this infectiously funny episode, Dr. Nigel Guest , our ever-curious family practitioner, sits down with none other than Yersinia pestis, the infamous bacterium behind the bubonic plague. With a twinkle in his eye and a stethoscope around his neck, Dr. Guest dives into a conversation that's as infectious as it is informative, exploring the historical havoc wreaked by this notorious, nasty microbe. Ever wonder...
Oct 08, 2024•8 min•Ep. 39
In this episode of Join the Docs , our ever-curious hosts, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest , take a deep dive into the labyrinthine world of medical research. With their signature blend of wit and wisdom, they aim to demystify the intricate processes behind drug discovery and clinical trials, making it as clear as a well-written prescription minus the totally illegible doctor’s handwriting of course! How does Professor Sackier set the tone for the discussion? He compares drug d...
Oct 01, 2024•42 min•Ep. 38
Ever wondered what makes your eyes pop when you see someone attractive? In this rib-tickling episode of Join the Docs , our dynamic duo, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest , dive deep into the eye-opening world of dilated pupils and attraction. The Docs hilariously dissect how Renaissance women, in their quest for beauty, resorted to using atropine extracted from the belladonna plant to dilate their pupils. Imagine the scene: women with eyes wide open, stumbling around like they’v...
Sep 24, 2024•4 min•Ep. 36
Have you ever wondered how a deadly toxin found in spoiled sausages could end up being the secret behind wrinkle-free foreheads? In this rib-tickling episode of Join the Docs , our dynamic duo, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest , take you on a wild ride through the history and medical marvels of botulinum toxin, affectionately known as Botox. The Docs kick things off by tracing its origins back to the days of the Roman Empire, where improperly prepared sausages were more than jus...
Sep 24, 2024•9 min•Ep. 37
Why do female singers sometimes sound like they've been gargling gravel? In this episode of Join the Docs, our melodious maestros, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest , strike a chord as they riddle on raspy rappers and discuss distressed divas. Why might sopranos struggle to sing soulfully instead sometimes sounding far from sonorous? . They kick things off with a tuneful tour of the larynx and vocal cords, those tiny but mighty instruments that can make or break a performance. Wi...
Sep 17, 2024•21 min•Ep. 35
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a sharp-toothed and clawed weasel-like animal in your trousers? In this episode of Join the Docs, our ever-curious hosts, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest , dive headfirst into your trousers to discuss the furry-tale world of ferret legging. Yes, you heard that right—ferret legging! This peculiar sport involves brave (or perhaps slightly mad) participants stuffing live ferrets down their trousers to see who can endure the long...
Sep 10, 2024•9 min•Ep. 33
In this episode of Join the Docs, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest take a deep dive into the peculiar world of unusual sports and their associated injuries, leaving no stone unturned—or shin un-kicked. They explore the historical and medical aspects of "shin kicking" and "clog fighting," two sports that make you question humanity's penchant for pain. Shin kicking, dating back to the 17th century, involves participants kicking each other's shins to unbalance their opponent. It's ...
Sep 10, 2024•10 min•Ep. 34
In this episode of Join the Docs, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Dr. Nigel Guest dive into the surprisingly hilarious and sometimes cringe-worthy history and evolution of anaesthesia, affectionately dubbed "the surgeon's best buddy." The Docs take us on a wild ride from the days when biting a bullet was considered a viable pain relief method to the sophisticated modern techniques involving sedatives, analgesics, and muscle relaxants that we rely on today. With their signature blend of wit and wi...
Sep 03, 2024•32 min•Ep. 32
In this Join the Docs episode, the ever-charismatic Professor Jonathan Sackier and the delightfully witty Doctor Nigel Guest dive headfirst into a rollicking discussion about the medical marvels of various body parts. Picture this: a room filled with laughter as they dissect (pun intended) the critical importance of blood and organ donation, weaving in tales of heroic donors and miraculous recoveries. So, what are the ethics of organ donation? The Docs debate the merits of donating your earthly ...
Aug 27, 2024•28 min•Ep. 31
In this episode of "Join the Docs," Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest tackle the intriguing world of sneezing, which has the perplexing medical name sternutation. They examine the various causes, myths, and medical implications associated with sneezing. Join them as they uncover the snotty details and clear the air about the science and stories behind our sneezes. What are the common misconceptions about sneezing? The Docs debunk several widespread myths, such as the impossibilit...
Aug 20, 2024•19 min•Ep. 30
Have you ever pondered what it would be like to sport an extra nipple or even an additional breast? Well, ponder no more! Dr. Nigel Guest and Professor Jonathan Sackie r dive deep into the fascinating world of breasts, focusing on conditions like polythelia (extra nipples) and polymastia (extra breasts). They don't just skim the surface; they plunge into the titty-gritty details, exploring the prevalence of these conditions with the enthusiasm of kids in a candy store. Why do extra nipples and b...
Aug 13, 2024•10 min•Ep. 29
Have you ever wondered what Cleopatra's beauty secrets were? In this episode of "Join the Docs," Doctor Nigel Guest and Professor Jonathan Sackier dive headfirst into the ancient world of Cleopatra's skincare regimen. They kick things off with a discussion about her rather unconventional use of turpentine, milk, and honey for skincare. Professor Sackier provides the historical context and potential benefits of these ingredients, while Dr. Guest , wide-eyed and incredulous, peppers him with quest...
Aug 13, 2024•5 min•Ep. 28
In this episode our ever-curious hosts, Doctor Nigel and Professor Jonathan , dive deep into the ‘sunny side’ of skin health, shedding light on the multifaceted impact sunlight has on your body. The Docs embark on a comprehensive discussion about the perils of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. With a particular focus on the alarming rise of skin cancer cases in the sun-drenched land of Australia, they highlight how the country's love affair with the sun has led to it being dubbed the "skin cancer capi...
Aug 06, 2024•18 min•Ep. 26
In this episode our ever-curious hosts, Doctor Nigel and Professor Jonathan , dive deep into the ‘sunny side’ of skin health, shedding light on the multifaceted impact sunlight has on your body. The Docs embark on a comprehensive discussion about the perils of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. With a particular focus on the alarming rise of skin cancer cases in the sun-drenched land of Australia, they highlight how the country's love affair with the sun has led to it being dubbed the "skin cancer capi...
Jul 30, 2024•52 min•Ep. 25
In this episode, Professor Jonathan Sackie r and Doctor Nigel Guest dive headfirst into the labyrinthine world of medical mysteries, sharing stories of patients that leave them scratching their heads in amazement. The Docs sink their teeth into a case of porphyria, a rare genetic disorder that can make you feel like you're auditioning for a vampire movie. They recount the tale of a man who, under the light of the full moon, would experience excruciating abdominal pain and a skin sensitivity that...
Jul 23, 2024•29 min•Ep. 24
In this infectious episode, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest discuss all things syphilis. From ancient origins to its current resurgence, our docs get down and dirty, providing our audience with the knowledge necessary to keep you free from this stigmatised disease. Where does syphilis come from? The Docs make a deep dive into its origins, tracing the disease back to its earliest days via mentions in history. They unravel the tangled web of stigma that has surrounded it for cent...
Jul 16, 2024•31 min•Ep. 23
What happens when you mix a surgeon, a family practitioner, and a cheese wheel? In this podcast episode, Dr. Nigel Guest and Professor Jonathan Sackier set their sights on the peculiar topic of fromage-related injuries, a subject that might seem cheesy at first but proves to be a goldmine of gouda laughs and unexpected giggles. They kick things off with a deep dive into the annual cheese rolling event at Cooper's Hill in Gloucestershire, a tradition that’s as dangerous as it is delicious. With a...
Jul 09, 2024•9 min•Ep. 21
Have you ever wondered what would happen if James Bond had to visit a real doctor? In this podcast episode, Prof. Jonathan Sackier , a surgeon with a penchant for dry martini humour, and Dr. Nigel Guest , a family practitioner who can pull out a quip with the same panache as 007 whipping out his PPK , dive headfirst into the health consequences of James Bond's high-octane lifestyle. They don't just scratch the surface; they explore the nitty-gritty details of how Bond's smoking, drinking, and pe...
Jul 09, 2024•8 min•Ep. 22
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if a virus could talk? Well, wonder no more! Welcome to the latest episode of Join the Docs , where Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest dive deep into the world of measles, discussing everything from its sneaky cause to its easy-to-spot symptoms and tricky diagnosis because there are no specific treatments, one needs sound prevention strategies. But wait, there's more! The Docs are joined by the one and only Ruby, who isn't just any gues...
Jul 02, 2024•32 min•Ep. 20
Welcome to the latest gut-busting episode of Join The Docs where the hilariously erudite Doctor Nigel Guest and the ever-witty surgeon Professor Jonathan Sackier tackle the subject of vitamins,where the humour cuts deeper than a surgeon's knife, and the topics are as enriching as a nutrition-packed smoothie! Prepare to be operated on with laughter as they dissect the bewildering world of vitamins with the precision of a laser-guided scalpel. Professor Sackier , endeavouring to be erudite in the ...
Jun 25, 2024•31 min•Ep. 19
This key-rrific episode of Join The Docs features the ever-curious Professor Jonathan Sackier flying solo, sitting down without his usual sidekick Doctor Nigel Guest who is taking his own medicine and having a holiday.. This time, he's joined by the legendary John Oates . Yes, you heard it right— John Oates , the moustached marvel from the iconic duo Hall & Oates . Not only is he in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but he's also a multi-talented musician, songwriter, and all-around cool guy. ...
Jun 18, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 18
In this rollicking episode of Join The Docs , our esteemed gerontology gurus, Dr. Nigel Guest and Professor Jonathan Sackier , dive headfirst into the laughter lines of the ageing population. They don't just skim the surface; they go deep, exploring the socio-economic implications of a world where the average age keeps increasing. What is the impact of ageing on the community? As they dissect the burden on society and the economy, they don't just give it to you straight – they serve it up with a...
Jun 11, 2024•27 min•Ep. 17
Welcome, dear listeners, to the newest episode of Join The Docs with your favourite medical history buff, Professor Jonathan Sackier , and the ever-erudite Doctor Nigel Guest . Today, with a few sick jokes along the way, they're diving head first into the wild world of diseases, both the bone-a-fide and the baloney! What is the strangest disease you've never heard of? Professor Sackier starts things off with a dramatic reading from the Encyclopaedia of Obscure Ailments, setting the stage for a j...
Jun 04, 2024•34 min•Ep. 16
Have you ever laughed so hard you almost peed yourself? In this uproariously informative episode of Join The Docs , the ever-witty Professor Jonathan Sackier and the hilariously insightful Doctor Nigel Guest dive deep into the riveting world of pee-ology. With the chemistry of a classic comedy duo, they embark on a fluid journey through the golden streams of urination and urinary health. Is your pee the perfect shade? The episode kicks off with a vibrant discussion on the Pantone scale of pee, w...
May 28, 2024•44 min•Ep. 15