Explore the rise of personal branding and our obsession with self-identity in the digital age. Discover how historical movements influenced today's culture of narcissism. Delve into the myth of rugged individualism and its hidden dependencies on community. Uncover the historical roots of self-obsession, including the connections between self-creation and divinity. Reflect on the costs of curating our identities online and the implications of consumerism and authoritarianism on personal worth.

Sebastian Junger, a renowned author and journalist known for his exploration of the human experience, delves into the mysteries of life and death. He shares chilling details of his near-death experience and discusses the profound realizations that accompany such moments. The conversation explores cutting-edge research in resuscitation medicine, revealing how the definition of death is evolving. Junger reflects on near-death experiences, cultural interpretations of consciousness, and the potential for an afterlife, challenging our understanding of mortality.

Rooted in reality, written with a keen observer’s eye, and shaped with a sense of song, documentary poetry tells the truth in an artist’s voice. For generations, through wars, crisis, and political upheaval, documentary poets have helped make sense of some of our most difficult moments – by expressing what might otherwise be impossible to say. So what are they writing about today?This episode was produced in partnership with the Economic Hardship Reporting Project.Original Air Date: January 13, 2024Interviews In This Hour: The gospel of Suncere Ali Shakur — This is how I drew you — The poetry that bears witness to the everydayGuests: Philip Metres, Suncere Ali Shakur, Kaia Sand, Camille DungyNever want to miss an episode? Subscribe to the podcast.Want to hear more from us, including extended interviews and favorites from the archive? Subscribe to our newsletter.

In this discussion, Lagipoiva Cherelle Jackson explores the alarming impact of climate change on Pacific Island geography, highlighting community displacement. Mamata Akella delves into the transition from traditional maps to digital tools, shedding light on their implications for our geographic understanding. Bill Limpisathian discusses the psychological effects of maps on human perception, while Andre touches upon the cultural significance of fictional maps, including the allure of phantom islands. This conversation sparkles with insight into how maps shape our world and perceptions.

Human creativity — whether it’s solving a tough problem or writing a novel — is one of our defining traits. It’s also deeply mysterious. Where does that creative spark come from?Original Air Date: February 09, 2019Interviews In This Hour: A Neuroscientist and a Novelist Put Creativity Under a Microscope — Is This The Price of Genius? — Alma Mahler: 'Malevolent Muse' or Early Feminist Composer? — Was The Art Worth All The Pain?Guests: Heather Berlin, Siri Hustvedt, Jim Holt, Mary Sharrat, Nathaniel Mary QuinnNever want to miss an episode? Subscribe to the podcast.Want to hear more from us, including extended interviews and favorites from the archive? Subscribe to our newsletter.

Explore the fascinating world of whale communication, where AI helps decode their complex vocalizations. Dive into the history of whale songs and the groundbreaking research that unveiled their significance. Discover the cultural ties between indigenous peoples and whales, advocating for their recognition as sentient beings deserving legal protection. The discussion highlights the urgent need for conservation and the lessons in empathy we can learn from these majestic creatures and their oceanic environments.

How we live is indelibly intertwined with the care and empathy we give to each other. What if we put care into helping Americans find homes and build dwellings, into keeping their bodies and minds sound, and finding meaningful and well-paid work? In this three part series, "To The Best Of Our Knowledge" and the Economic Hardship Reporting Project bring you real life stories about economic struggle in our time, as well as ideas for solutions.Original Air Date: November 19, 2022Interviews In This Hour: Do they need to know that I'm blind? — The work of care is vital. Why don't we pay like it is? — A sonnet for a lineworker — Barbara Ehrenreich on writing the American labor storyGuests: Andrea Dobynes Wagner, Angela Garbes, Rodrigo Toscano, Barbara EhrenreichNever want to miss an episode? Subscribe to the podcast.Want to hear more from us, including extended interviews and favorites from the archive? Subscribe to our newsletter.

Explore the intertwining struggles of mental health and financial instability faced by many, including veterans. Hear personal narratives of homelessness and resilience, emphasizing the emotional toll of life's challenges. Discover the solace found in nature amidst mental health struggles and the difficulty of accessing proper care. Learn about the complexities of addiction, the importance of harm reduction strategies, and the urgent need for compassionate support systems to break the cycles of trauma and poverty.

Explore how economic struggles intertwine with our sense of home and belonging. Hear personal stories of resilience from those facing housing insecurity and the emotional toll of frequent relocations. Discover the disconnect between lived poverty experiences and societal perceptions. Delve into the importance of community involvement in urban planning and public housing initiatives, and examine the shifting role of libraries as vital resources for marginalized individuals. Join the conversation on embracing care and compassion in our societies.

Heather Swan, an author focused on the intricate stories of insects, joins philosopher Andreas Weber to delve into the emotional complexities of loving nature amid ecological anxiety. They discuss the pressing decline of the insect population and our emotional connections to these creatures. Weber introduces the concept of 'mutual edibility,' highlighting our interconnectedness with the natural world. Both guests emphasize finding joy and resilience in nature, urging listeners to embrace its beauty despite environmental challenges.