Dr. Josh Smalley recently shared his experience filming in the popular television show, the Great British Bake Off. As a former contestant and finalist on the Channel 4 program in 2023, Dr. Smalley offered insights into the behind-the-scenes happenings during an interview with the Mirror this week.
Aged 29, Dr. Smalley, a chemistry researcher and science communicator, participated in the fourteenth season of the show, which aired two years ago. His impressive baking skills led him to the final round, where he finished as a runner-up, while Matty Edgell clinched the winning title.
Reflecting on his time in the renowned Bake Off tent, Dr. Smalley discussed various aspects of the competition in a recent interview, ahead of his speaking engagement at the upcoming New Scientist Live festival. He reminisced about interacting with the show’s hosts, the challenges of competing, and the fate of leftover baked goods.
Expressing his initial motivations for joining the show, Dr. Smalley emphasized that the opportunity to challenge himself was paramount. He described the overall experience as fulfilling a long-held dream, stating that being part of the Bake Off was beyond his expectations.
Dr. Smalley highlighted the camaraderie among the twelve contestants, noting that they bonded quickly during their time together. He recalled nervous moments meeting judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith just before the first baking challenge.
Regarding the intensity of the competition, Dr. Smalley mentioned the emotional impact of eliminations each week, emphasizing the desire for all participants to succeed and showcase their skills. He also touched on the strict time constraints imposed on contestants, which posed a significant challenge in completing baking tasks within the allotted two-hour timeframe.
Acknowledging the stress and pressure within the Bake Off tent, Dr. Smalley shared personal experiences of reworking recipes multiple times and receiving instant feedback from judges during tastings. He also shed light on the fate of uneaten bakes, reassuring that there was no wastage as crew members and contestants eagerly consumed them.
Post his Bake Off journey, Dr. Smalley continued his endeavors in the science field, now holding a position as a postdoctoral research associate and champion of science communication at the University of Leicester. He founded the Science Kitchen, a unique platform at the university that blends science education with culinary exploration to engage and inspire audiences.
Looking ahead, Dr. Smalley is gearing up for a captivating talk at the forthcoming New Scientist Live event, where he will delve into the intriguing science behind baking. With interactive demonstrations and engaging displays, his presentation promises an immersive experience for attendees.
Linking baking with science, Dr. Smalley expressed his passion for educating audiences on the chemical reactions and principles behind baking techniques. He highlighted the enjoyment derived from unraveling the science of recipes and observing people’s reactions to newfound knowledge.
In conclusion, Dr. Smalley extended an invitation to food enthusiasts and science aficionados alike to join his talk, promising a blend of culinary insights and scientific revelations. With a mix of educational content and entertaining experiments, his presentation aims to demystify the science of baking in an engaging and accessible manner.
