Tallinn University Student Podcast

This podcast reveals the reasons for human trafficking being still one of the major global issues in the 21st century even though there are international laws, criminalization, and widespread public awareness. It sheds lights on the difference between the existence of legal frameworks and the fact that trafficking manages to adjust itself to the changing times. It discusses that social media and o...

In this episode, we explore the psychology behind astrology, moving beyond stereotypes to understand why we turn to the stars during times of stress and uncertainty. The discussion features insights from Anna-Maria (The Witch of Tallinn) and psychologist Lea Lihtmaa to examine the "Illusion of Control," the "Barnum Effect," “the Locus of Control”, and “Confirmation Bias” and how ancient celestial...

From non-existent “ghost” group members to last-minute PowerPoint and Docs miracles, welcome to our podcast on one of university (and academia as a whole) life’s most painfully standard traditions: group work. In this episode, we explore the psychology, sociology, and academic reality behind free-riding in higher education, trying to find an explanation for the age-old questions of why some studen...

AI is often seen as something logical. But is that really the case? Or are these systems quietly reflecting and reinforcing the inequalities that already exist in our society? In this episode, we pull back the curtain on algorithmic bias and show how the data we feed AI systems quietly encodes our prejudices, amplifies existing inequalities, and shapes decisions that affect real lives. From facial...

“I swear I’ll never do this again… but I say that every exam week.” In this episode of the Tallinn University Student Podcast, we explore the real effects of all-nighters on students. Joined by Lea Lihtmaa, a psychologist for the students of Tallinn University, we talk about sleep deprivation, procrastination, and why so many students end up studying at the very last minute, featuring real student...

Are memes always just harmless internet jokes or are they modern tools of psychological warfare? In this episode of the Tallinn University Student Podcast, we examine the cognitive and political consequences of the meme war. We explore mechanisms like strategic desensitization, the psychology behind why we fall for “narrative fallacies" and coordinated digital attacks known as the 4D strategy...

How some people find inner strength and grow after difficult experiences? Today we’re exploring a deeply important topic: how some people find inner strength and even grow after difficult experiences. Trauma can mean many things - from childhood adversity and bullying to illness, loss, or other life-changing events. While trauma is painful, research shows that people sometimes emerge from it not o...

Europe's educational future: The Estonian Example delves into the complex world of education by highlighting some of the different approaches that are used all around the world. These approaches can be for example centralized or de-centralized but they still have to achieve their goal of generating a world full of knowledgeable and capable adults. One of the most well known tests for measuring aca...

In today's episode of the Tallinn University Student Podcast, we are going to make things real awkward by talking a little about embarrassment — how it came to be and how to accept or totally overcome it. If you've also ever felt a little embarrassed, it's a great chance to join this conversation between three students. We will be integrating our gathered knowledge of the topic as well...

In this episode of the TLU Student Podcast, we take a closer look at how short-form media may be influencing the way narratives are created, and what storytelling means today as viewing habits continue to change. Short videos on platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts have quickly become a major part of how people watch and share stories. This shift raises questions about what h...

In this episode, we delve into the transformative role of AI in language learning with Merike Saar, an education technologist and English teacher. Discover how AI is reshaping education, the balance between AI and human teachers, and the importance of personalized learning. Join us as we explore the opportunities and challenges AI presents in modern education. Thank you for listening and if you en...

In this episode of the Tallinn University Student Podcast, we explore the tension between digital safety and personal privacy in the age of mass surveillance. We dive into the controversial Chat Control 2.0 proposal, a system designed to detect illegal content on messaging platforms. While intended to protect children, it raises serious questions about privacy, encryption, and government oversight...

In this episode, we sit down with Shahriar, who is a founder of Antigon Security—a Tallinn-based start-up that has already uncovered serious vulnerabilities in some of Estonia’s largest companies. Together we demystify hacking and cybersecurity: Hacking 101 – the difference between ethical hacking, penetration testing, and criminal exploits and the psychology of cybercrime. Life inside a cyber sta...

Join us as we explore the evolving role of women in global diplomacy—from historical barriers to modern breakthroughs. Featuring insights on feminist international relations, regional developments from Europe to Asia, and an exclusive interview with Her Excellency Nargiz Gulbanova, Azerbaijan’s first career female ambassador. This episode highlights the voices of trailblazing women who shaped dipl...

Ever wake up unable to move, feeling a heavy weight on your chest or sensing someone else in the room? You’re not alone. In this episode, hosts Karolina and Lisett dive into the mysterious world of sleep paralysis with sleep expert Katrin Põld. Together, they break down what really happens during these episodes-why your mind wakes up but your body can’t move, and why vivid hallucinations and inten...

Why do people in certain corners of the world live longer, healthier lives? In this episode, we explore the fascinating concept of Blue Zones — regions with exceptionally high life expectancy. Our guest is professor Michel Poulain , one of the original founders of the Blue Zones concept. Together, we discuss the lifestyle factors that contribute to longevity, from diet and physical activity to soc...

Feeling the constant pressure? Wondering if meditation could be the key to better grades and less stress? In this episode, our host Arina explores these questions with Sangam Panta, a TLU lecturer, BFM Film Projects Supervisor, and passionate meditation enthusiast, to uncover the reality. Together, they explore whether mindful meditation truly reduces stress and boosts academic performance — or if...

How does screen time influence children’s attention spans and their ability to learn? As adults, many of us have noticed the impact of digital content on our own focus and attention. If this shift affects us, what does it mean for children who grow up surrounded by screens and cartoons? In this episode, we explore the benefits and potential challenges of screen usage, balancing insights with scien...

The following episode of the Tallinn University Student Podcast series explores the fascinating intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and mental health care. Our guest, Markus Bertl, a qualified researcher focused on implementing AI in psychiatry, shares insights into his doctoral thesis on how digital decision support systems (DDSS) can be used in healthcare. Join us as we discuss the pote...

"Seksuaalvägivalla vaimne koorem" on avameelne ja teadlikkust tõstev episood. Vestleme ekspertidega mitmest raskest teemast, kus nad jagavad praktilisi lahendusi ning jagame mõtteid, mis aitavad kasvatada hoolivust ja teadlikkust. See vestlus on samm parema ja toetavama maailma poole.

Lies are everywhere, from harmless white lies to elaborate deceptions that shape history. In this episode of the TLU University Student Podcast, hosts dive into the psychology of lying, how to spot a liar, and the fine line between truth and deception. Featuring expert insights from Kristjan Kask, we explore verbal and non-verbal cues, famous lies that shook the world, and the science of lie detec...

Kuidas on sotsiaalmeedia ja popkultuur muutnud klaasi veini emaduse igapäevaseks osaks? ELU projekti "Analüüsi, tõlgenda, võimesta- kuidas mõista ühiskonda ja muuta maailma?" raames valminud episoodis räägime #winemom liikumisest – nähtusest, mis esmapilgul tundub humoorikas ja süütu, kuid peidab endas ka keerulisemaid küsimusi. Psühholoog Jane Alop ja ajakirjanik Britt Ernewein avavad, kuidas sel...

Meeste vaimne tervis jääb tihti tähelepanuta, kuid selle episoodi külalised – koomik Aleksandr Popov ja psühholoog Steven Saagpakk – räägivad, miks on oluline seda teemat lahata. Kuidas mehed oma tunnete eest hoolitsevad, millised on psühholoogilised takistused ja kuidas huumor aitab leevendada elu keerulisi hetki?

Join us on the TLU Student Podcast as we delve into the profound question: Does music shape our identity? If so, how and why? In this episode, hosts Sigrid and Keidi explore the symbiotic relationship between music and personal identity with the expertise of Pille Rand, a seasoned music therapist specialising in Guided Imagery and Music therapy. Pille, who works both in rehabilitation and palliati...

In this episode we discuss how sports and physical activities affect academic performance and mental state during university studies. We touch on the transition from compulsory PE classes in high school to sitting in lectures, spending hours studying and mostly having a physically passive university life. We emphasise the positive effects physical activity has on our brain and cognitive performanc...