Farnell’s Top Tech Voices returns with new season exploring brain health and sustainable technology
Farnell’s podcast series, “Top Tech Voices” continues its second season with two thought-provoking episodes examining how technology influences both human wellbeing and planetary sustainability.
The opening conversations bring together neuroscientist Dr. Jack Lewis and environmental innovator Fionn Ferreira — two voices approaching technology from very different, yet equally human, perspectives.
In episode one, Mental Health & Technology: Navigating the Digital Mind, Dr Jack Lewis explores how digital tools are reshaping cognitive health.
Rather than framing technology as inherently positive or negative, Lewis presents a more nuanced view: technology’s impact depends on how we use it. While digital tools increase efficiency and expand access to information, excessive screen time can displace the very behaviours that support long-term brain health — including movement, deep focus and face-to-face connection.
Drawing on neuroscience research, Lewis explains how exercise supports memory and resilience by releasing Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), and how uninterrupted social interaction strengthens neural pathways linked to empathy and understanding. His message is not about rejecting devices, but about using them deliberately.
The episode encourages professionals and organisations alike to consider how digital environments can be designed and managed to support wellbeing rather than undermine it.
Episode two shifts focus to environmental technology, featuring award-winning inventor Fionn Ferreira.
Raised in West Cork, Ireland, Ferreira began investigating microplastic pollution as a youngster after observing contamination along his local shoreline. With limited laboratory access, he built his own scientific equipment — including a spectrometer constructed from a Raspberry Pi, webcam and Lego — to analyse water samples.
His research led to the development of a magnetic method to remove microplastics using specially engineered ferrofluids. The innovation gained international attention and support, including backing connected to initiatives highlighted at the World Economic Forum.
In the conversation, Ferreira discusses the realities of scaling environmental innovation, from laboratory prototype to industrial application. He emphasises that invention is rarely a solo pursuit; meaningful progress requires collaboration, storytelling and persistence.
“Top Tech Voices is about bringing credible, expert perspectives into the conversation around technology,” said Rebeca Obregon, President of Farnell Global. “These episodes reflect the breadth of innovation shaping our world — from understanding how digital habits affect our brains to developing practical solutions for global environmental challenges. Technology has extraordinary potential, and through this series, we’re exploring how it can be harnessed responsibly to deliver meaningful impact.”
Together, the first two episodes demonstrate the range of discussions shaping season two of Top Tech Voices. From cognitive resilience in a digital age to scalable environmental innovation, the series continues to explore how technology can address real-world challenges when guided by insight and intention.
