Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast

The future of work is shifting fast. In Episode 110, we explore how teams are evolving in an AI-driven world—becoming more global, more hybrid, and increasingly augmented by intelligent systems. Discover what it really means to build borderless, AI-ready teams, how roles are changing, why “AI fluency” goes far beyond using tools, and what skills will matter most in the months ahead. We also dive into the human side: the emotions, the adaptation, and the mindset needed to thrive in this new landscape. If you're curious about the next era of collaboration and how humans and AI can work together at scale, this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reporting live from Web Summit Lisbon 2025, where AI dominates every stage, one story stands out amid the tech frenzy: Belarus 2.0. In an exclusive interview with Belarus President-in-exile, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, we learn how thousands of Belarusian tech founders, forced to flee persecution and imprisonment, are now launching startups across Europe, keeping innovation alive despite being in exile. Separately, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya is working on rebuilding Belarus itself — creating a vision for a free, digital-first, democratic nation, ready to emerge without the influence of Putin or Lukashenko. For the first time ever, Belarus has a stand at Web Summit, symbolizing hope, resilience, and the power of echnology as a tool for both innovation and national renewal. The show is presented by Ania Lichtarowicz. Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast heads to Web Summit 2025 — where over 70,000 innovators gather to define what’s next in tech. Forget the headlines about private jets and billion-dollar startups. We’re looking for the hidden heroes of innovation — founders from the world’s remotest corners bringing tech for good ideas to life. From breakthroughs in AI and quantum computing to grassroots movements using technology for social impact, discover the real stories powering the future. 🎙️ Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast New episodes every Tuesday at 21:00 GMT, wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After last week’s AI takeover, Somewhere on Earth returns to real voices and real data. This week, we dive into a groundbreaking new study analysing more than 10 million social media posts, confirming what many suspected — fake news really does spread faster than the truth. Joining Ania is Professor Mohsen Mosleh from the Oxford Internet Institute, who unpacks how political bias, algorithmic design, and social sharing habits shape what we believe online — and what, if anything, we can do about it. 🌐 VPNs, Verification & the New Internet Divide New age-verification laws across Europe are reshaping access to adult content and sparking a boom in VPN usage. Are these online safety acts truly protecting minors, or just driving users underground? Sam Woodhams, VPN Managing Editor at TechRadar, joins us to reveal surprising data behind the sudden 77% drop in site traffic - and why governments might be eyeing your encrypted browsing next. 💬 Listener reactions are in — and the verdict on last week’s AI hosts might surprise you. 📩 Send your thoughts to hello@somewhereonearth.co or find us on social media @SOEPTECH. 🎧 Subscribe to Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen — and unlock Podcast Extra for exclusive interviews and deeper dives each week. Supported by Roost, Sazience, and part of the Evergreen Podcast Network.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why is social media designed to reward misinformation? The answer might not be what you think. New research analyzing over 10 million posts reveals a startling paradox that holds true across every major platform, from X and BlueSky to LinkedIn: lower-quality news consistently attracts more engagement than higher-quality content. And the most surprising part? It’s not just the algorithms—it’s us. This week, we dive into the digital realities fracturing our online world. We explore why user preferences, not just code, are driving us into echo chambers and enabling the spread of misinformation. The implications for our political discourse and society are enormous. Don't just scroll - understand the forces shaping your feed. Listen to get the insights you need. Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast. New episodes every Tuesday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast, we’re letting AI take the lead. Using Google Notebook LM, we’ve built a full episode from some of our favourite past shows - letting algorithms choose what to play and how to tell the story. The result is a bold experiment in AI-generated podcasting, exploring how technology is reshaping work, food, and education around the world. We dive into the fight for gig workers’ rights with Gigu, a Brazilian startup that took on Uber to promote fair pay and transparency, and Vos Futura, a platform redefining journalism with positive, solution-driven stories. We also head to Uzbekistan, where AgriTech innovator Grows is using AI tools to empower millions of smallholder farmers and build a more sustainable future. Finally, we explore how artificial intelligence is transforming education, from remote learning and language inclusion to mental health and online safety. Can machines tell meaningful human stories - and should they? The programme is presented by AI generated hosts.   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast - we’re handing the mic to AI. For the first time ever, we’ve created a full episode using Google Notebook LM - built from some of our favourite past shows. The algorithms are choosing what to play… and even what to say. Will it work? Or will the machines miss the mark? Find out in this special AI-generated edition - dropping Tuesday, October 28th, wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From major global businesses to personal accounts, cyberattacks are no longer rare - they’re a part of everyday life. On this week’s episode of Somewhere on Earth, we explore how individuals and nations are fighting back. Learn practical tips for securing your passwords, discover what “digital housekeeping” really means, and get an inside look at how Ukraine is defending itself whilst training the next generation of cybersecurity experts. Tune in for expert insights that could save you from your next online threat. The programme is presented by Ania Lichtarowicz.   More on this week's stories: Professor Oli Buckley Iryna Volnytska   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co  Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From high-profile cyberattacks on UK businesses to how you can protect yourself online — this week, Somewhere on Earth takes a closer look at cybersecurity. 🎙️ Host Ania Lichtarowicz talks to: Packed with practical advice and real-world insight - essential listening for anyone living life online. 🎧 Available Tuesday on all major podcast platforms and via the Evergreen Podcast Network. #CyberSecurity #Podcast #SomewhereOnEarth #DigitalSafety #EvergreenPodcasts #Tech #Ukraine Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special edition of Somewhere on Earth, host Gareth Mitchell teams up with Andrew Grill, the “Actionable Futurist” behind the Digitally Curious podcast, for a thought-provoking deep dive into how artificial intelligence is reshaping our lives, work, and creativity. Joined by digital culture pioneer and SOEP Studio Expert Ghislaine Boddington, the trio explore what it really means to live — and stay human — in an AI-driven world. From the boardroom to the everyday, they unpack the shift from AI hype to real-world application, the rise of digital empathy, and how curiosity remains our greatest tool for navigating the future. Tune in for sharp insights, global perspectives, and authentic conversation — because being digitally curious has never mattered more.   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ghislaine Boddington.   More on this week's stories: Digitally Curious Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Exciting news from Somewhere on Earth and Digitally Curious! We’re teaming up with Andrew Grill, the Actionable Futurist behind the Digitally Curious podcast, for a special edition all about AI, society, and the real-world impact of digital change. Andrew brings practical, no-nonsense insight into how to use the future — not just imagine it. Plus, Ghislaine Boddington joins us to share her unique take from the cutting edge. 🎧 Somewhere on Earth x Digitally Curious — coming Tuesday, 14th October. 👉 Subscribe now so you don’t miss this fascinating collaboration! https://open.spotify.com/show/65YZwVfA03MSdZ3198yLdb #AI #DigitalTransformation #FutureOfWork #Podcast #Futurebusiness #SomewhereOnEarth #DigitallyCurious Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Artificial intelligence isn’t just coding our future - it’s saving lives right now on Ukraine’s frontlines. New research that’s being presented at the American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress 2025 in 2025 shows how AI-driven evacuation systems, real-time medical data streaming, and autonomous rescue vehicles are reshaping combat medicine amid more than 390,000 reported injuries since Russia’s invasion began. From triage algorithms that choose who gets evacuated first, to AI-designed prosthetics built for precision and recovery, this is tech meeting humanity in the most urgent way possible. Dr. Evgeni Kolesnikov’s research shows how AI is redefining what’s possible when machine learning meets medicine. 🌍💻 Nowhere to Hide: Dr. Julia Shaw on the Rise of ‘Green Crime’ and the Tech Tracking the Planet’s Worst Offenders Criminal psychologist Dr. Julia Shaw is on the show to talk about the tech behind her new book “Green Crime: Inside the Minds of the People Destroying the Planet - and How to Stop Them”. She explains how AI, satellite surveillance, and forensic finance are tracing the data signatures of environmental offenders who thought they could hide. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories: AI optimizes evacuation, diagnosis and treatment of wounded soldiers in Ukraine “Green Crime” by Dr. Julia Shaw Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Producer: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast explores how innovation shapes real lives worldwide. In this episode, we uncover how AI is helping Ukrainian medics evacuate and treat wounded soldiers from the frontline - technology in action where every second matters. Plus, Dr. Julia Shaw joins us to discuss her new book Green Crime, and how tech is being used to expose crimes against our planet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🌐 Crisis of Social Media Moderation - 16m in EU without checks online 14% of EU based X users have no human content moderators in their languages, according to new research from the Oxford Internet Institute. 16 million EU-based users of X don’t have moderators for their national language.  Hate speech in English is often flagged and removed quickly. But in many other languages - including Italian, Portuguese, Arabic and Spanish - especially on smaller platforms, dangerous content stays online unchecked. This moderation gap leaves entire communities exposed to harassment and disinformation.  The study also found gaps on LinkedIn. The lead author of the study, Manuel Tonneau speaks to Gareth.   📵 Sudan’s WhatsApp Ban: A Lifeline Cut Off Sudan has blocked WhatsApp voice and video calls, citing vague security concerns. For families separated by war, aid workers, and journalists, this was a vital lifeline. The Keep It On coalition say the ban is less about safety and more about control, worsening isolation and disrupting humanitarian relief. In conflict zones, connectivity isn’t optional - it’s survival.  They are calling for the ban to be lifted immediately. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.   More on this week's stories: Language Disparities in Moderation Workforce Allocation by Social Media Platform #KeepItOn: Time to end Sudan’s isolation; lift the WhatsApp block now   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🌍The Crisis of Social Media Moderation Moderation isn’t equal. New research shows social media platforms fail non-English speakers — with dangerous consequences.” 📵 Sudan’s WhatsApp Ban Sudan has blocked WhatsApp calls. For families in war, aid workers, and journalists, that’s more than inconvenient — it’s survival cut off. All this and more on Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast - out every Tuesday at 2100BST. The podcast connecting global stories of technology, society, and the people living through them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Ceasefire for the Digital Age When war moves online, civilians and critical infrastructure become targets in new ways. In this episode, we unpack Access Now’s call for a digital ceasefire — a bold demand to protect human rights in cyberspace. What would it mean to declare peace in networks, servers, and code? And how do we hold governments and companies accountable in this invisible but devastating battlefield? Giulio Coppi, senior humanitarian officer author at Access Now and Marwa Fatafta, co-author of the recent report, Digital Ceasefire: The Path to Peace Goes Online are on the show. The Science Behind DeepSeek’s Success China’s DeepSeek R1 AI model has stunned the tech world — not just for its performance, but for how it was built. With no billion-dollar budgets and no shortcuts, the team leaned on efficiency and innovative training methods that are rewriting the rules of AI research. In this episode, we explore the science behind their success and what it reveals about the future of innovation and global competition in AI. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories: Digital Ceasefire: The path to peace goes online The secrets of DeepSeek AI model revealed in landmark paper   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coming up this week on Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast: 🔌 War has gone digital. So must peace.What does it look like to demand a #DigitalCeasefire—not on the ground, but in the code, networks, and servers where conflict now spreads? 🧠 Meanwhile in China: a small AI lab just schooled the giants.DeepSeek’s R1 model made waves globally—not with limitless funds, but with clever, efficient science. No supercomputers. No hype. Just breakthrough innovation. We break down how they did it. 🌍 Two stories. One theme: Technology is what we make it. It can safeguard rights or accelerate disruption. It can be built by a handful of thinkers or a room full of servers. The future isn’t just coming—it’s being coded, trained, and deployed right now. Out every Tuesday @2100BST/2200CEST/1600EDT. ✨ Tune in to Somewhere on Earth for deep dives into tech that’s reshaping humanity’s future—ethically, efficiently, and unexpectedly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Artificial Intelligence isn’t coming — it’s already here. In Episode 102 of Somewhere on Earth – The Global Tech Podcast, host Ghislaine Boddington explores how AI is transforming the workplace, what it means for Africa’s young population, and who’s winning the global race for AI supremacy. 🤖 The Future of Work: Why AI Assistants Are Here to Stay Alex Farrell, CEO of Autometry, believes AI assistants will soon be our digital colleagues, boosting productivity by taking over repetitive tasks while humans focus on creativity and decision-making. Her message is clear: AI is here now, and businesses must adapt. 🌍 Africa’s Youngest Generation: Can AI Earn Their Trust? Dr. Wambui Kahara, CEO of Crystal Tribe Investments, highlights how Africa’s young, fast-growing population needs AI tools built with local languages and contexts. Without trust and cultural relevance, digital natives risk being left behind in the AI revolution. ⚡ AI Supremacy: Who’s Winning the Global Tech Race? Bloomberg columnist Parmy Olson unpacks the battle between the US and China for AI dominance, warning that corporate ambition often overrides ethics and regulation. With rising concerns over trust, energy use, and mental health, the world must decide what price to pay for AI’s convenience. She also discusses her international best selling book "Supremacy: AI, ChatGPT and the Race That Will Change the World". The programme is presented by Ghislaine Boddington.   More on this week's stories: Alexandra Farell Wambui Kahara Parmy Olson Supremacy: AI, ChatGPT and the Race That Will Change the World   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our next episode: 🚨 AI isn’t just the future — it’s already here. From the workplace to Africa’s digital youth to the global AI race, the world is changing fast. In this week’s Somewhere on Earth – The Global Tech Podcast, host Ghislaine Boddington dives deep with: 🤖 Alex Farrell — why AI assistants could soon sit next to us at work. 🌍 Dr. Wambui Kahara — how Africa’s young generation can shape AI that truly speaks their language. ⚡ Parmy Olson — who’s winning the global AI race, and what it means for trust & innovation. 🎧 Episode 102 is out on Tuesday at 2100 BST! 👉 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Evergreen Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/65YZwVfA03MSdZ3198yLdb #ArtificialIntelligence #FutureOfWork #AfricaTech #AISupremacy #GlobalTech #TechPodcast #DigitalTransformation #AIRevolution #Innovation #SomewhereOnEarth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From underserved African languages to a revolutionary Braille display — the latest Somewhere on Earth podcast covers stories that matter. Story 1 – AI and African LanguagesHausa, spoken by 94 million people, is understood by ChatGPT only 10-20% of the time. The issue? Lack of training data. A team behind African Next Voices has recorded 9,000 hours of speech across eighteen African languages, creating datasets to train AI and finally bring these languages online. Dr Ife Adebara CTO of EqualizeAI and Lead Solutions Engineer at Data Science Nigeria shares insights into the challenges, scope, and wider economic potential of this project. Story 2 – Micro-Explosive BrailleMost braille displays only show one line at a time, limiting access to complex content. A team from Cornell, MIT, and Michigan Universities has developed a multiline braille display using micro-explosions of fuel gas in silicone sheets to raise dots safely and rapidly. Tested successfully with users, this innovation could bring tactile reading into classrooms, libraries, and homes, while opening applications in VR, AR, and biomedical research.   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.   More on this week's stories: AI models are neglecting African languages — scientists want to change that Explosion-powered eversible tactile displays   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🌍✨ Somewhere on Earth is back! This week:🔹Why AI fails 94M Hausa speakers — and the project fixing it.🔹The explosive new Braille tech changing classrooms forever. 🎧 Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast |New episodes every Tuesday 21:00 BST. #Podcast #AI #Africa #Braille #TechForGood Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Internet is unsafe if you’re LGBTQ+ in Africa – and Big Tech isn’t helping Being online should be empowering - but for LGBTQ+ communities across Africa, it’s often dangerous. A new survey from digital rights group Access Now reveals how queer people are suffering harassment, threats, and abuse across social platforms. Instead of offering protection, major tech companies are turning a blind eye, leaving millions vulnerable. On this episode, we speak to Jaimee Kokonya, Africa Campaigner at Access Now, about the reality of digital life when simply logging on can put your safety at risk. Your AI browser extension could be spying on you Those handy AI browser assistants might be giving away more than they promise. A team at University College London has revealed that some of these popular extensions are quietly collecting highly sensitive data, including medical information and even social security details. We speak with Dr Anna Maria Mandalari, senior author of the study, about how these tools trade privacy for convenience, which extensions failed the test, and the one that actually passed. If you’ve installed one of these add-ons, you’ll want to hear this before your next click. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories: Digital Rights LGBTQ+ Africa Rainbow-burning: how social media companies increase risks for LGBTQ+ people in Africa AI web browser assistants raise serious privacy concerns Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Somewhere on Earth; The Global Tech Podcast… When the Internet turns against you. We hear how LGBTQ+ communities across Africa are being targeted with horrific abuse on social platforms – while Big Tech looks the other way. We speak to Access Now’s Jaimee Kokonya on why being online is an act of bravery. And… is your AI assistant spying on you? Research from University College London shows some popular browser extensions are harvesting your most sensitive data. Professor Anna Maria Mandalari reveals which extensions failed the test, which one passed, and how to protect yourself. The tech stories that matter with Gareth Mitchell and Ania Lichtarowicz. Out this Tuesday at 2100BST. Subscribe to “Somewhere on Earth” wherever you get your podcasts. https://open.spotify.com/show/65YZwVfA03MSdZ3198yLdb https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast/id1713408769   Search for the PodExtra edition for even more in-depth analysis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brazil Declared War on Phone Theft — Should the UK Do the Same? The UK’s battle against mobile phone theft is being hindered by a standoff between law enforcement and major handset manufacturers. Police want to use IMEI blocking to quickly disable stolen devices, but Apple and Google disagree on the approach. The deadlock raises questions about privacy, data access, and the most effective way to render stolen phones useless.  While the UK remains stuck in debate, Brazil’s major players - from telecoms to government agencies - are working together to tackle phone theft head-on. Sao Paulo-based tech company Qintess has developed a multi-layered system: detecting cloned devices through call pattern analysis, a secure app that lets users remotely lock stolen phones, and a restricted IMEI list that instantly renders devices unusable. The result is a coordinated, nationwide shield against phone crime.   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert Ania Lichtarowicz   More on this week's stories: Safe Cell Phone App Qintess Apple and Google clash with Police over mobile phone theft Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

GigU: Empowering ride-hailing and delivery drivers to take back control In Brazil, many ride-hailing and food delivery drivers face the harsh reality of low earnings — sometimes even paying to work. GigU is changing that. The startup’s app acts as a “smart co-pilot,” showing drivers whether a job will actually be profitable before they accept it. Co-founder Luiz Neves shares how this technology is helping gig workers earn more, gain independence, and stand up to industry giants — even sparking lawsuits from the very companies it’s challenging. Voz Futura: Brazilian football star leads movement for positive news The 24/7 news cycle can feel overwhelmingly negative, but a new Brazilian media venture wants to rewrite that narrative. Voz Futura, co-founded by professional international footballer Danilo Luiz and journalist Pedro Pirim Rodrigues, is dedicated to replacing damaging headlines with stories of hope, achievement, and progress. By leveraging storytelling and technology, they aim to shift public perception, inspire communities, and make the media landscape a healthier space for all. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert Angelica Mari.   More on this week's stories: GigU Voz Futura   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Medsi AI: The selfie and voice scan revolutionizing healthcare in Mexico In this week’s episode, we explore an innovative health platform called Medsi AI that can measure your heart rate and assess mental well-being - just from a one-minute selfie and a short voice recording. Developed in Mexico to address a health system struggling to meet the needs of an ageing population, Medsi AI is working alongside the government to expand access to care. With over half of healthcare spending coming directly from individuals and millions without coverage, this cutting-edge tool offers a glimpse into the future of affordable, accessible health diagnostics. Maes Negras: Creating opportunities for black mothers in Brazil We also shine a light on Maes Negras, a Brazilian platform dedicated to helping black mothers secure employment, gain mentorship, and grow their businesses. Founded by Thais Lopes, the initiative offers a one-stop solution for career support, skill development, and networking opportunities. In a country where systemic barriers still limit opportunities for many, Maes Negras is building a pathway for economic empowerment and long-term success for one of Brazil’s most underrepresented communities. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert Angelica Mari.   More on this week's stories: MedsiAI Maes Negras   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Blockchain Revolution: How the Hive community is bringing clean water to villages in Ghana This week we meet McSamm who fell violently ill from contaminated water in rural Ghana. He didn’t just recover though, he revolutionized access to clean water. Partnering with Hive’s blockchain community, he raised funds to install 22 boreholes in remote villages. These often solar-powered systems (minimizing electricity costs) now deliver safe water to 300,000+ people - with villagers maintaining ownership and young people learning blockchain skills for future projects. Jungle Guardians: Greenbug’s AI sound sensors battle illegal mining & wildfires in South America’s remote rainforests Unusual noises and AI are stopping illegal logging and saving crops in Brazil. We met Greenbug founder Marcelo Vieira at Web Summit Rio and he revealed how Greenbug’s AI-powered acoustic sensors listen 24/7 for threats in ecosystems like the Amazon. These ‘digital guardians’ detect illegal mining equipment, smuggling boats, wildfires, and even invasive species - sending real-time alerts with geolocation to rangers and farmers before disasters escalate. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ *(P.S. Got a story like Steve Clark’s? WhatsApp us: +44 7486 329 484)* Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky YouTube   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Somewhere on Earth is bought to you with the support of RoostEdge.   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No Internet for a year: Why Equatorial Guinea has kept Annobón island offline For 12 months, the people of Annobón, an island province of Equatorial Guinea, have lived in a digital blackout - cut off from the world with no explanation. Why would a government deliberately silence its own citizens? In this episode of Somewhere on Earth, we speak with Tutu Alicante (EG Justice) and Felicia Anthonio (Access Now) about the shocking reality of one of the world’s longest-running internet shutdowns. Digital rights groups are now demanding action - but will the world listen?  From oil giant to climate ally? How Petrobras is unlocking emissions data for the world What if the key to fighting climate change wasn’t just more data - but making it accessible to everyone? In a groundbreaking partnership, Brazil’s Petrobras and tech hub CESAR have transformed dense emissions reports into an interactive public dashboard tracking G20 nations’ climate progress. Could making this complex scientific data easily accessible and understandable bring real change? 💡 Want more investigative journalism? Support Somewhere on Earth for $10US/month at Pod.fan or Buy Us a Coffee! The best way to help? Share this episode with a friend. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.   More on this week's stories: Access Now – Keep it On Campaign - Annobón EG Justice Petrobas/CESAR Climate Data Dashboard   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky YouTube   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bridechilla x Somewhere on Earth - Episode 2 What happens when Bridechilla meets Somewhere on Earth? Tech, tradition, and a touch of tulle collide in the second of two special crossover episodes, exploring how technology is transforming weddings around the world.  In Episode 2, hosts Gareth Mitchell and Leah Haslage dive into intimacy tech, virtual reality ceremonies and even hologram guests with award-winning body-tech pioneer and regular Somewhere on Earth studio expert Professor Ghislaine Boddington.  You’ll hear how today’s weddings are blending real-world love with digital innovation - from heartbeat-sharing smart rings to 360° livestreamed vows, and NFT wedding certificates in the metaverse. Plus, a special field report from India with Somewhere on Earth studio expert  Chhavi Sachdev, revealing how the wedding tech boom is revolutionizing big fat Indian weddings. The show is presented by Leah Haslage and Gareth Mitchell. More on this week's stories: Ghislaine Boddington Bridechilla Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky YouTube   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when one of the world’s top wedding podcasts teams up with a global tech show? Magic. Or at least a stress-free wedding planned with #AI. In this special crossover episode of Bridechilla and Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast, hosts Leah Haslage and Gareth Mitchell join forces to explore how artificial intelligence and tech tools are revolutionizing the wedding experience. From AI-assisted guest lists to ChatGPT powered etiquette fixes, you'll learn: How to use AI to streamline planning, clean up guest addresses, and handle tricky family conversations. Budget-friendly tech hacks to keep your wedding spending in check. How to build a custom playlist, write a speech with ChatGPT, and create your own wedding website or app. Our guest Jaime Coast, an accomplished artist and wedding stationer, shares where AI shines (and where it shouldn’t) in design and planning. Somewhere on Earth regular studio expert Angelica Mari brings us a report from Web Summit Rio, where she chats with Carolina Kia Takada about the new WhatsApp wedding AI assistant she has created, that’s helping couples plan their big day with ease. Stay Tuned: In the next episode, we dive into intimate tech and weddings in the metaverse. Don’t miss it. The programme is presented by Leah Haslage and Gareth Mitchell.   More on this week's stories: ⁠Cotton and Bow⁠ ⁠Carolina Kia Takada⁠ ⁠Bridechilla⁠   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky YouTube   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meta’s Submarine Cable Megaproject Meta’s Project Waterworth isn’t just another undersea cable - it’s an 50,000km+ behemoth set to link continents, with India’s data centres as a key hub. Doctoral researcher Anniki Mikelsaar from the Oxford Internet Institute breaks down its geopolitical stakes: Will it dodge regulatory battles? The project also raises questions about regulation and security. Who controls these underwater data highways? As demand for low-latency connections grows, Meta’s investment could redefine how the world stays online - and who profits from it. AI vs. Diabetic Foot Ulcers Diabetes can silently attack nerves, leading to foot ulcers that risk amputation. Enter LookInside, an AI app that diagnoses ulcers in seconds using smartphone scans. Founder Dr. Hermilio Carvalho explains how it could slash global healthcare costs—and why it’s part of a wave of AI tools fighting diabetes’ invisible threats. Tinder’s double dating revolution Swipe culture just got safer: Tinder’s Double Date lets users’ team up with a friend to match with pairs. Gareth cheers it as a no-brainer for safety, while Chhavi wonders: Could this kill awkward first-date small talk? Either way, it’s a bold step towards reimagining digital dating. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Chhavi Sachdev. More on this week's stories: Meta’s submarine cable – the longest ever LookInside – Diagnosing diabetic foot ulcers with AI Tinder Double Dating For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky YouTube   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The rising energy cost of AI & how tech impacts sustainability The growing demand for AI comes with a staggering energy price tag. Research by Alex de Vries reveals that AI could consume nearly half of global data centre power by the end of 2025, surpassing even cryptocurrency mining. As models like DeepSeek AI advance, so does their electricity consumption, raising urgent questions about sustainability. How can tech companies balance innovation with environmental responsibility? And could policy changes or more efficient hardware help reduce AI’s carbon footprint? Digiconomist Alex De Vries is on the show. Fighting food waste with tech: The app rescuing surplus meals Startups like Food to Save are tackling another global crisis: food waste. By connecting restaurants, bakeries and takeaways with unsold meals to people who need them, the app turns nearly expired - but perfectly safe - food into affordable "Surprise Bags." Could this model work worldwide? From Kenya’s food waste challenges to AI predicting food insecurity using satellite data, innovative solutions are emerging. Hear from Food to Save’s co-founder Lucas Infante on how tech can help reduce waste—one meal at a time. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Wairimu Gitahi.   More on this week's stories: AI power demand rapidly escalating Food to Save Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky YouTube   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co  Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Next-Gen Black Boxes: Saving lives with Real-time Data Traditional black boxes—Cockpit Voice Recorders (CVR) and Flight Data Recorders (FDR)—have critical flaws. CVRs often overwrite audio after just two hours, while FDRs require physical recovery, delaying crash investigations. Honeywell’s new HCR-25 solves these issues with a 25-hour CVR and live satellite data streaming, ensuring instant access to flight data even if the physical box is lost. This tech could have transformed probes like the Air India 171 or Air France 447 investigations, where recovery took years. Though retrofitting costs are high, global regulators are pushing adoption to prevent future tragedies. Frost Away: How Chile’s Tech Shields Farmers Frost devastates crops, but Chilean startup Frost Away fights back. Its AI-powered mesh networks predict frosts hours in advance, alerting farmers to protect fields. Similar challenges exist in India, where apps, often paid for, offer partial solutions. Frost Away’s innovation highlights the need for affordable, scalable agritech in vulnerable regions.   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Chhavi Sachdev.   More on this week's stories: Honeywell HCR-25 FrostAway   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky YouTube   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WhatsApp voice notes are revolutionizing English learning in Brazil Forget expensive apps - Storm Education is teaching English via WhatsApp voice notes, memes, and chats, targeting Brazil’s 95% non-English speaking population. Founder Marcos Almirante reveals how his startup scaled to 100,000+ students entirely within WhatsApp—and why traditional language apps should be worried. Cabo Verde’s offline EdTech breakthrough: Education without internet Angola-based Wongo just launched in Cabo Verde, bringing mobile lessons to sex workers, rural youth, and offline communities. Their secret? Pre-loaded courses that work without WiFi. Executive Director Joel Cruz explains how this model could bridge Africa’s digital divide. Women-led startups outperform men - but still get less funding Data shows female-founded businesses deliver higher returns, yet they receive just 2% of venture capital. The Cartier Women’s Initiative is changing that - by backing 330 women across 66 countries every year for more than 18 years, and applications for this year’s awards are OPEN until 24th June. Global Director Wingee Sin shares why awards like these are game-changers. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Wairimu Gitahi. More on this week's stories: Storm Education Wongo Cartier Women’s Initiative Cartier – Science and Technology Pioneer Award Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Facebook Instagram BlueSky YouTube If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wisdomia: Chat with Da Vinci & Ada Lovelace in 3D Imagine learning calculus from Ada Lovelace or art theory from Leonardo da Vinci—digitally resurrected in 3D AI avatars. That’s the vision behind Wisdomia, the first Web3.0 edutainment marketplace blending gamified learning with immersive history. Founder Dinis Guarda joins us to explain how users interact with AI versions of geniuses, explore 3D-rendered wonders like the Temple of Artemis, and earn rewards while learning. “This isn’t Wikipedia in 3D,”  he says—"it’s a tipping point for education."   H&M’s Digital Model Twins: Innovation or Job Threat? Fashion meets the metaverse as H&M scans real models to create AI “digital twins” for campaigns. While the brand calls it a "creative enhancement”, critics warn of lost jobs for photographers, makeup artists, and models themselves. “Is this sustainability or just cost-cutting?”, we ask digital twin expert Ghislaine Boddington.   Premier League’s VAR goes Semi-Automated- Fans Fume Football’s robot referees are causing chaos! The new semi-automated offside system uses 10,000 data points per player to make calls—but when it falters humans have to step in.   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ghislaine Boddington.   More on this week's stories: Wisdomia Dinis Guarda Businessabc AI Global Summit H&M; Digital Twin Models Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SOAT)   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brazil’s UNESP transforms its IT infrastructure to compete globally Imagine a university shackled by slow, outdated tech - now picture it rivalling global giants in connectivity and innovation. That’s exactly what happened when São Paulo State University (UNESP) teamed up with Brazilian IT powerhouse RoostEdge to completely overhaul its IT infrastructure across 34 campuses in just 18 months; swapping clunky legacy systems for a lightning-fast, future-proof network that’s now the envy of universities worldwide. The secret? A powerhouse partnership between UNESP’s Director of Technology, Professor Ney Lemke and RoostEdge’s visionary CEO Eliezer Silveira Filho, proving that when academia and industry join forces, even the most ambitious digital transformations become reality. But here’s the kicker - this isn’t just a win for UNESP; it’s a roadmap for any institution ready to ditch sluggish systems, attract top talent, and supercharge research with cutting-edge tech. The programme is presented by Angelica Mari and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.   More on this week's stories: UNESP RoostEdge Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scaling Solar Access Across Brazil magine accessing affordable solar power with just a few clicks - no rooftop panels, no upfront costs, just clean energy delivered through smart, decentralized infrastructure. That’s the vision transforming communities across Brazil, where millions are still priced out of the energy transition. Leading this project is Pedro Somma, CEO of Luz Energia. He explains how the company is building a digital-first platform to democratize solar energy, offering energy-as-a-service and unlocking real impact in underserved regions. It’s not just innovation - it’s climate equity at scale. Can tech remove CO2 permanently from the atmosphere? Julia Sekula, CFO of Terradot describes how they are scaling carbon dioxide removal (CDR) through Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW) in Brazil. Backed by a multi-year deal with Microsoft to remove 12,000 tonnes of CO₂, Terradot is pioneering one of the most advanced ERW monitoring efforts to date. With nearly 50,000 tonnes of rock deployed across 2,000 hectares, Terradot is targeting its first carbon credits in 2025. Sirius Education Editor Ania is also out and about talking to startups - this week we meet the Founder of Sirius Education, Arnobio Morelix. They are training professionals to be ready for the jobs of the future. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Angelica Mari. More on this week's stories: Luz Energia Terradot Sirius Education Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Disturbing Reality of AI-Generated AbuseA new study reveals nearly 35,000 publicly downloadable AI models capable of generating deepfake pornography—often targeting women and celebrities. These "model variants" can be tweaked to create millions of non-consensual intimate images, fuelling a growing crisis in digital exploitation. Researchers identified 35,000 deepfake model variants in public repositories, with each model being used to generate countless AI-generated explicit images of real people. While 35,000 models may seem small compared to the vast internet, each one represents a potential weapon for harassment. Experts warn that without stricter regulation, deepfake abuse could spiral further out of control. The study was led by Will Hawkins from the Oxford Internet Institute. He joins Gareth and Ghislaine on the show.    MySQL at 30: The Unsung Hero Powering Facebook, the Web & Your Data - The Database That Quietly Runs the InternetYou’ve probably never heard of it—but your data lives on MySQL. Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, this open-source database is the invisible backbone of Facebook, countless websites, and nearly every major online service. It’s an open-source success story, which relies on simplicity and speed and it’s easy to set up. We spoke with Peter Zaitsev, who joined MySQL in 2002 and later co-founded Percona, a leading database consultancy.  Next time you log into Facebook or book a flight, remember - there’s a 30-year-old database working behind the scenes. Not bad for a tech "underdog."   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ghislaine Boddington. More on this week's stories: Dramatic rise in publicly downloadable deep fake image generators 1995-2025: MySQL at 30!   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co  Send us a voice note via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Somewhere on Earth, we dive into groundbreaking tech innovations with a purpose. Join us as we speak with Eduardo Peixoto, CEO of Brazil’s CESAR Innovation Hub, about cutting-edge projects like a smart lipstick prototype and a real-time sign language translator — game-changing tools designed to empower people with disabilities. We also explore inclusive tech initiatives shaping accessibility in Latin America. Plus, we meet Trela, an ambitious online grocery startup that's transforming healthy eating in Brazil through tech-driven solutions. CEO Guilherme Nazareth shares how Trela is disrupting the online grocery space. Whether you're into disability tech, social impact innovation, or the latest in global tech entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Subscribe now and tune in!   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.   More on this week's stories: CESAR Trela   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on social media: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#ownyourdata with Brittany Kaiser Whistle blower and data activist Brittany Kaiser, whose story is told in the Netflix documentary “The Great Hack”, joins Gareth and Ania on stage at Web Summit Rio. She talks about her latest initiative that will allow Brazilians to get paid for sharing their data. RoostEdge – new SOEP sponsor CEO of RoostEdge Eliezer Silveira Filho is on stage to tell us about how RoostEdge is connecting technologies and people, generating innovative, intelligent and high-impact solutions using Edge Computing and IoT, whilst also working with tech for good initiatives. We’re delighted to announce that we are partnering with Roost and you will be hearing more from Roost’s clients over the coming months. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories: Brittany Kaiser #ownyourdata RoostEdge Web Summit Rio Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From Algorithm to Action: How AI & Automation are Redefining Business In this episode, we dive into the booming technology scene in Brazil — now the 5th largest digital economy in the world. With over 260 million active mobile phones (more than there are people in Brazil!) and major investments in digital transformation, Brazil is rapidly becoming a global tech powerhouse. We’re joined by Alexandre Conceição, Strategic Business Executive Director, and Yan Sym, Data Science Manager, both from Qintess, a leading global digital consulting company rooted in Brazil’s innovation ecosystem. Tune in as we explore cutting-edge trends in AI and the future of digital banking. The programme is presented by Angelica Mari and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.   More on this week's stories: Qintess LinkedIn  InstagramAlexandre Conceição Yan Sym Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Facebook Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Love, Lies & Digital Crime: The Global Web of Romance Scams In this episode, we uncover the dark side of the internet where romance scams flourish across major technology platforms—and the heartbreaking consequences they leave in their wake. Victims are deceived by online personas, only to find themselves emotionally betrayed and financially devastated. But the story doesn’t stop there. Freelance journalist Emily Fishbein takes us deep into the criminal underworld operating in post-coup Myanmar, where trafficked individuals are forced into running these scams under threat and coercion. Emily, now a fellow with the Pulitzer Center’s Rainforest Investigations Network, shares findings from her pre-fellowship work featured in Al Jazeera and MIT Technology Review. This episode explores the intersection of technology, organized crime, and human vulnerability, shedding light on how digital platforms have become unwitting hosts to industrial-scale scams. The Surprising Roots of Social Media in Ham Radio Long before Facebook and MySpace, there was another kind of social media - the world of amateur radio. Celebrating 100 years since the founding of the International Amateur Radio Union in 1925, we reveal how ham radio operators have been connecting, communicating, and innovating across the globe for a century - from disaster relief to space communication. A hobby rooted in analogue technology has evolved into a vibrant, digital, and community-driven space. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a podcast lover, or curious about the future of social connection, tune in to hear from broadcaster and radio amateur Jim Lee (G4AEH) as we decode the past, present, and future of this unique tech tradition. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories: Inside a romance scam compound—and how people get tricked into being there Amateur radio services at the forefront Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lifestyle and mental health - Nigerian startups empowering choice through tech Buying electronic toys that speak your language or even a doll that looks like the proud owner is easy – that is if you’re white and speak English. It’s much harder to buy other ‘lifestyle’ products, for example, a child’s plate with Arabic writing on it, or a doll wearing a hiyab. Oyindamola Kazeem, realized this when she herself had children so she set up Hadiyang – the "one stop digital hub for Islamic products" in Nigeria. She was at Web Summit Qatar to expand her business to the MENA region. Another Nigerian tech startup – “Howbodi” was also on a similar mission. Howbodi means “How are you?” in pidgin English and is also the name of an app and website that is using the latest AI tech, combined with human back up in the form of therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists to destigmatise mental healthcare in Nigeria. Dr. Maymunah Yusuf Kadiri and Zainab Kadiri are now looking for investors to finance standalone internet connected mobile mental health care booths, so people in rural areas can also have access to free mental health care. This special edition was recorded at Web Summit Qatar in the exhibition hall. The audio quality is therefore different to our usual studio produced shows. The programme is presented by Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories: Hadiyang Oyindamola Kazeem Howbodi Dr. May Zainab Kadiri Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kenya has a blood deficit and it’s especially urgent in places like the northwestern region of Turkana, where malaria, anaemia and violence are rife, driving up the demand for blood transfusions. The Ministry of Health is now planning to roll out technology to modernise blood transfusion services, extending the shelf life of blood and being able to automate the entire process. The most detailed computer model of the brain ever built The most detailed computer simulation of the human brain to date has been created. The model illustrates how the brain uses and stores energy. So far they’ve found that diet, exercise, and supplements may help mitigate the effects of aging on our brains. While the connection between physical health and brain health is not a novel concept, the depth of analysis regarding brain cell interactions, blood circulation, and blood chemistry provided by this model is unparalleled. This research has been published in Frontiers in Science, the leading open-access journal from Frontiers. The principal investigator, Dr. Polina Shichkova, tells Gareth more about the project. GPS jamming on the up…again! If you are a regular subscriber you might recall our show from last October discussing GPS jamming and spoofing. Recently, countries have been reporting an increase in the number of attempted disruptions to the radio signals used – these can impact aircraft operations, shipping, logistics, power grids, and any other sectors that depend on location or timing signals from satellites. Now the International Telecommunication Union has issued a joint statement urging countries to improve the security of these systems. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories: Kenya’s Blood Automation Plan Modelling metabolism in the aging brain Can we keep the brain energized as it ages? To hear more from the authors, register for the complimentary virtual seminar:  https://events.frontiersin.org/aging-brain/fsci Protect satellite navigation from interference, UN agencies urge Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we have an AI-free show – instead we’re going to tell you about the latest tech in food packaging. Metalchemy is a startup that has created a biodegradable material designed to enhance the freshness of your food. Although this may not seem particularly groundbreaking, it is important to note that the material in question is at the cutting edge of nanotechnology. This represents advanced chemical engineering, using silver nanoparticles to preserve food freshness.Metalchemy was the winning startup at the Doha Web Summit and CEO Federico Trotta joins us on the show.   Arab.org – clicking our support to NGO’s and charities If you find that doing the right thing can sometimes feel like a challenging task, you will appreciate the platform we have on the show today. Arab.org serves as a convenient avenue for donating to charitable causes with just a single click. While this concept may not be entirely new, Arab.org distinguishes itself from typical fundraising websites. It functions as a hub for the NGO community, facilitating connections between NGOs and individuals who support their missions, while also streamlining some of their corporate operations. Ania met Arab.org founder Alexander Nehme in Qatar. Branding – why getting our own digital brand is essential It may feel uncomfortable when individuals advise you to "create your own brand," especially when so many people are now doing this online. Maha Abouelenein, a personal branding specialist and the CEO and founder of the global communications consulting firm Digital and Savvy, has authored the best-selling book "Seven Rules of Self-Reliance" and has some tips on how to best market yourself online.   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.   More on this week's stories: Metalchemy Arab.org Digital and Savvy   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Restoring US Government websites since Trump came to power Since January 20th this year there has been a significant reduction of content on US government websites, following directives from the Trump administration to eliminate extensive data and resources, particularly those related to health equity, equity, diversity, and inclusion, or any other topics the administration considers excessively "woke." In response, groups of volunteers have come together to archive these websites before they become inaccessible. This effort is monumental, not only due to the vast amounts of data involved but also because of the technical challenges associated with backing up such large websites. Among the volunteers is Lauren, a dedicated research scientist who, despite her demanding day job, has been working late into the night on this initiative, alongside other public health experts, web developers, and Python programmers. Lauren is specifically focused on preserving information from one of the government's primary health websites, the CDC and she is on the show. Innoora – the avatar communicating in Arabic with deaf people A new avatar, which can ‘read’ webpages in sign language could help Arab deaf children across the Middle East and North Africa. Innoora is a startup that aims to transform communication for the deaf with AI-driven sign language translation, voice recognition, and emotion analysis. Ania met up with founder Basant Amr at Web Summit Qatar. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories: Restored CDC Innoora Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Agritech in Uzbekistan: helping small-scale farmers recover from communist farming methods Uzbekistan is tackling the many problems it faces in farming and agriculture with the help of technology. During its time as part of the Soviet Union, the country was forced to grow cotton which led to major environmental problems. The country has 5.5 million smallholders, many of whom are women. A new digital platform called Growz is creating tech solutions for smarter and more sustainable farming as well as allowing the farmers easier access to customers and suppliers. Murod Khusanov, the founder and CEO of Growz, was at Web Summit Doha and spoke to editor Ania.   Generating Power from Gravity In the last of his series of reports from the Consumer Electronics Show, Jez Donaldson reports on a technology that generates power from Gravity – he’s on the show to explain how it all works.   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Chhavi Sachdev.   More on this week's stories: Growz Jez Donaldson   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify   Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co   Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484   Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Myanmar tops the charts for the most internet shutdowns in 2024 India stands as a global leader in various sectors - technology, innovation, space exploration, and education in science and engineering. However, it has also consistently ranked first in internet shutdowns for six consecutive years. From 2016 to 2023, there were a total of 771 recorded incidents. According to the Freedom Law Centre India, a digital rights organization, the criteria for implementing these shutdowns are often lacking in transparency. Notably, in the past year, Myanmar has surpassed India, with the military regime responsible for 85 internet shutdowns, while India recorded 84. We check out the annual report on Internet Shutdowns from the digital civil rights NGO Access Now. Glasses that improve the vision of patients with macular degeneration 200 million people worldwide have macular degeneration – a form of sight loss often associated with ageing. Now a US company say they have developed glasses that can improve their vision significantly. Jez Donaldson has been finding out more.  The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Chhavi Sachdev. More on this week's stories: Emboldened offenders, endangered communities: internet shutdowns in 2024 SolidddVision Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The first African-born Arab woman to go into Space Sara Sabry, is an engineer, citizen astronaut, and entrepreneur of Egyptian-Lebanese descent. In 2022, she made history by becoming the first Egyptian to journey into space during the Blue Origin NS-22 mission, as well as the first woman of African descent and Arab heritage to achieve this milestone. Additionally, she is the founder and CEO of the Deep Space Initiative, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing space exploration. In 2021, Sara completed a two-week simulation of a lunar mission and astronaut training program at Florida Tech, distinguishing herself as the first Egyptian woman qualified to conduct research in sub-orbital space. Sara spoke with Somewhere on Earth at Web Summit Qatar, in front of a live audience. More than 25,000 people attended the summit, where thousands of tech start-ups, mainly from the Middle East and Africa, were bidding for investments.   The programme is presented by Ania Lichtarowicz.   More on this week's stories: Sara Sabry Sara Sabry at Web Summit Qatar Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are teachers keeping up with their pupils when it comes to AI in the classroom? A recent survey in the United States showed that more than 70% of students report using AI for their school assignments, even in the face of institutional restrictions on tools like ChatGPT. This finding comes from a study conducted by The Harker School, Carnegie Mellon University, and the University of California, Santa Barbara. The data shows that pupils are engaging with these LLMs more often than adults, suggesting that younger users are adapting to AI technologies quicker. But that begs the question are educators keeping pace with these developments? In a special edition about AI and the future of education Gareth and Ghislaine are joined by Mutlu Cukurova, a Professor of Learning and Artificial Intelligence at University College London. We also hear more tech for Good from CES in Las Vegas. The BeeKee Box is a classroom in a box that can be used where there is no connectivity. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ghislaine Boddington. More on this week's stories: Professor Mutlu Cukurova BeeKee Box Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz Recorded at Lansons Team Farner For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices