Unexpected Elements
Unexpected Elements is a BBC World Service science podcast that uncovers scientific stories and connections from around the globe, from the Afronauts to why we argue. It has 347 episodes with a weekly cadence and a median length of about 50 minutes. Estimated downloads are 5,000 to 25,000 per episode, with a host-read rate of $90 to $625 per episode.
Long-running BBC science show with a loyal, well-rated audience
- 347 episodes since 2019 with a steady weekly cadence and consistent 50-minute length.
- 354 Apple Podcasts ratings averaging 4.5 stars, with 266 five-star reviews.
- BBC World Service production with no competing sponsors seen in the feed.
Brand fit report
Content
- Formats
- narrative, documentary, interview
- Tone
- curious, informative
- Language
- English
- Production
- Studio production
- Typical length
- 45 to 50 minutes
Audience
Commercial
- Brands seen
- None yet
- Categories promoted
- None yet
- Affiliate links
- No
No sponsor mentions found in the feed.
Suitability GARM Brand Safety Floor + Suitability
Family friendly
No explicit flag; episode titles such as 'Rogue Agents' and 'Someone's always watching' are general interest with no concerning content.
We classify content, never people. No age, gender, ethnicity, religion or political views are inferred about the creator. Audience figures are estimates unless marked verified. Creators can correct anything on their profile.
Where to listen
| Platform | Link |
|---|---|
| Website | www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p016tmt2 |
| Apple Podcasts | podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id634849863 |
| RSS feed | podcasts.files.bbci.co.uk/p016tmt2.rss |
Benchmark score: 87 / 100
Public rule, same for everyone. How it works.
Recent episodes
| Episode | Date | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Taking a shortcut | 2026-10-16 | 50 min |
| Walk the line | 2026-10-09 | 50 min |
| Rogue Agents | 2026-10-02 | 50 min |
| An identity crisis | 2026-09-25 | 50 min |
| A distorted view | 2026-09-18 | 50 min |
| The phizz-whizzing science of Roald Dahl | 2026-09-11 | 50 min |
Last six episodes from the show's feed, latest 3 days ago, a new one about every 7 days.
The news you know, the science you don’t. Unexpected Elements looks beyond everyday narratives to discover a goldmine of scientific stories and connections from around the globe. From Afronauts, to why we argue, to a deep dive on animal lifespans: see the world in a new way.
About Unexpected Elements
Unexpected Elements is a science podcast from the BBC World Service that looks beyond everyday narratives to uncover scientific stories and connections from around the world. The feed lists 347 episodes since May 2019, released weekly, with a median running time of about 50 minutes. The show's description cites topics ranging from the Afronauts to why people argue and animal lifespans.
Apple Podcasts shows 354 ratings with an average of 4.5 stars, and the BBC website hosts the programme page. The feed names no individual hosts, so the show is best described as a BBC World Service production. Listener figures are estimates: based on the rating count, we estimate 5,000 to 25,000 downloads per episode, and the audience is likely skewed toward adults interested in science and global news.
No sponsors appear in the feed. An estimated host-read placement rate of $90 to $625 per episode could suit science education, books, or documentary brands seeking an audience of thoughtful, science-curious listeners.
Written from the show's public RSS feed, its Podcast Index listing and episode titles. Numbers updated 2026-10-19. Unexpected Elements can edit or remove this page at any time.
Questions about Unexpected Elements
How much does Unexpected Elements charge for a podcast sponsorship?
Starbooked estimates $90 to $625 per host-read mid-roll, based on an estimated 5,000 to 25,000 downloads per episode. Actual pricing depends on placement and the show's acceptance of sponsors.
What is Unexpected Elements about?
Unexpected Elements is a BBC World Service podcast about science stories and connections from around the globe. Episodes cover topics such as space history, human behaviour and animal biology, released weekly.
How do I contact Unexpected Elements about sponsoring an episode?
The show's contact email unlocks on Starbooked for $0.80. Boosted shows can also be booked through Starbooked.
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