For many Aussies who grew up listening to Dr Karl's science show on Triple J, he’s an icon. Beyond that, he's written 48 books, co-hosted the Sleek Geeks show with Adam Spencer, made countless TV appearances, and even had a brief political run in 2007. Kate’s 4-year-old knows him from Playschool.

Dr Karl’s latest book, A Periodic Tale, dives into his life – from being the son of Holocaust survivors to becoming a physicist, taxi driver, children's doctor, and TV star. In typical Dr Karl fashion, this chat is a bit whirlwind...We hope you enjoy!

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A Periodic Tale :HarperCollins Australia, $45.00, available now.