Some of the greatest breakthroughs in history began with a twist of fate — and a mind ready to see the possibilities. In this episode, we explore accidental discoveries that reshaped the world, from Percy Spencer’s melted candy bar that led to the microwave oven, to Wilhelm Röntgen’s mysterious glowing screen that revealed X-rays. You’ll also hear the surprising stories behind superglue, penicillin, and Teflon, and learn the fascinating science that makes them work. These moments of curiosity, skill, and serendipity prove that innovation often strikes when we least expect it — but only if we’re prepared to notice. This episode was prepared with the help of AI, and the content is written by OYLA authors. For subscription, please visit: oyla.us, oyla.uk, oyla.au, oyla.eu, oyla.co.in to check it out!
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9:25
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9:25
The Two Sides of Omar Khayyam
Ever wondered how a Persian mathematician became one of the world’s most celebrated poets? In this episode, we dive into the fascinating life of Omar Khayyam—a brilliant astronomer, mathematician, and perhaps a poet—whose discoveries shaped calendars, algebra, and even geometry centuries ahead of their time. From surviving nomadic invasions to impressing kings and leaving a mark on both science and literature, Khayyam’s story is full of adventure, intellect, and a touch of mystery. Join us as we unravel the man behind the Rubáiyát and explore the legacy that still echoes today. This episode was prepared with the help of AI, and the content is written by OYLA authors. For subscription, please visit: oyla.us, oyla.uk, oyla.au, oyla.eu, oyla.co.in to check it out!
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9:42
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9:42
Latimeria
Meet a living fossil with legs, teeth, and a 5-foot-long scaly body—our distant, finned relative from 385 million years ago! In this episode of OYLA Podcast, we dive into the extraordinary discovery of Latimeria, the coelacanth that shocked the scientific world in 1938 and gave us a glimpse of our ancient aquatic cousins. Learn how this deep-sea predator moves like a terrestrial animal, lives for over a century, and even carries its babies internally for 13 months! Adventure, science, and evolution collide in this story of a “zoological sensation of the 20th century.” This episode was prepared with the help of AI, and the content is written by OYLA authors. For subscription, please visit: oyla.us, oyla.uk, oyla.au, oyla.eu, oyla.co.in to check it out!
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7:49
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7:49
Spectra of creation
How can we tell what distant stars and planets are made of—without ever touching them? In this episode of the OYLA podcast, we explore the fascinating history and science of spectral analysis, from Newton’s prism to the discovery of helium in the Sun. Learn how light reveals the secrets of the universe and how the Doppler effect revolutionized modern astronomy. A story of color, sound, and cosmic detective work! This episode was prepared with the help of AI, and the content is written by OYLA authors. For subscription, please visit: oyla.us, oyla.uk, oyla.au, oyla.eu, oyla.co.in to check it out!
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10:15
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10:15
Tsunami
In this episode, we dive into the powerful natural phenomenon known as a tsunami — massive ocean waves triggered by underwater earthquakes. You’ll learn how these waves form, why they can travel thousands of miles, and what makes them so devastating when they reach the shore. We also explore the role of tsunami warning systems and how they help save lives. This episode was prepared with the help of AI, and the content is written by OYLA authors. For subscription, please visit: oyla.us, oyla.uk, oyla.au, oyla.eu, oyla.co.in to check it out!
OYLA Science Magazine is launching a podcast series! This new format will let you delve into the fascinating world of science like never before. In each episode, embark on a journey that breaks the boundaries of our printed pages as we unlock the mysteries of the universe one discovery at a time. Subscribe and get ready to be inspired, informed, and amazed by the incredible world of science.
New Zealand