Writer, educator, and poet Walidah Imarisha discusses non-linear time, radical imagination, and the transformative power of storytelling in envisioning a more just and equitable society. The conversation explores activism as time travel and the importance of collective care and connectivity in advocating for societal change.
The decision to end the podcast at episode 100 reflects artistic integrity and signifies embracing new beginnings after a transformative journey.
Engaging in visionary fiction and radical imagination cultivates collective resistance, decolonial visions, and transformative societal change.
Deep dives
Reflections on Episode 100 and Transitioning from the Podcast
The episode marks a milestone and reflects on the journey from the initial episodes infusing music to reaching this point. The host shares the policy of not having two white male guests until episode 98 and the enriching experiences gained by featuring diverse individuals. Interestingly, the episode announces that it will be the final one, hinting at the host's endeavors to focus on writing and new explorations of time travel concepts.
Embracing Endings and Creative Revolution
Drawing inspiration from the closure of a record label after its 100th release, the podcast host shares the decision to end the podcast at episode 100 with a sense of artistic integrity and emotion akin to destroying the past to embrace new beginnings. Gratitude is expressed to guests and listeners for engaging in expansive 'what-if' dialogues that sparked creative and reflective experiences.
Championing Nonlinear Time and Collective Resistance
The discussion delves into the concept of nonlinear time, challenging the conventional linear views dictated by capitalism and social control. Insights shared by the guest emphasize the importance of nonlinear perspectives, drawing on the work of Black Quantum Futurism and artists like Gabriel Teodros. The narrative unfolds how nonlinear time thinking nurtures collective resistance, imagination, and decolonial visions.
Activism Through Speculative Fiction and Radical Imagination
The episode underscores the role of visionary fiction in engaging social change and speculative futures. Encouraging radical imagination as a practice, it advocates for engaging in storytelling, workshop exercises, and envisioning liberated futures to drive activism. The conversation extends to the transformative power of Octavia Butler's works and the significance of collective dreaming for envisioning and realizing societal transformation.
And here we are. Episode 100. What a journey! Thank you so much for being a part of it with me. I could not be more delighted by today's guest, who I have wanted on this podcast since its inception. It's the wonderful writer, educator and poet Walidah Imarisha, one of my great she-roes. I really hope you are going to love the conversation that we had. And this episode starts with a couple of BIG announcements which I won't spoil, I'll leave you to dive into them.
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