Madeleine Finlay joins her co-host, Ian Sample, the science editor of The Guardian, to discuss three major science topics from the week. One of the highlights is a new study that adds to the ongoing debate about whether differences between men and women are innate—meaning they are present from birth—or shaped by social and cultural factors. This research could have wide-reaching implications, from education to workplace policies, as it attempts to untangle the complex interplay between biology and environment. The conversation also turns to the current El Niño phenomenon, which is described as a powerful and unusual weather pattern that occurs in the Pacific Ocean. This event is expected to cause extreme weather conditions around the world, including droughts, floods, and heatwaves. Scientists predict that these conditions could lead to as many as 450,000 deaths over the next six months, primarily due to the impact on food security, water availability, and health systems in vulnerable regions. Another topic of discussion is the recent meningitis outbreak in the UK, which saw a significant increase in cases earlier this year. The hosts explore what made this outbreak so severe compared to previous ones, looking at factors such as the strain of the bacteria involved, the effectiveness of vaccination programs, and how the outbreak spread through communities. Understanding these elements is crucial for public health officials to better prepare for and respond to future outbreaks. The episode highlights the importance of science communication in addressing both global challenges and everyday health concerns. By discussing these varied topics, Finlay and Sample provide listeners with a broader understanding of how scientific research impacts real-world issues, from public health to climate change.