Before family photos, or school pictures or Instagram, there were hand-drawn and painted portraits. Throughout the ages, portrait artists have captured expressions and personalities on canvas or paper, and those who view the picture interpret this “likeness” in their own way. We talk with a philosopher, a musician and a novelist about the role of portraits through history, and how we see ourselves —and others — through these deeply personal images. Original Air Date: September 23, 2023 Guests:  Peter Brathwaite, Maggie O'Farrell, Steven Nadler, Thijs Gerbrandy, Norbert Middelkoop

This conversation challenges the relentless pursuit of success by exploring the power of giving up. It delves into the psychological effects of fasting and its spiritual significance across cultures. The dual perception of surrender—both noble and shameful—is examined, encouraging reflection on societal norms regarding perseverance. Mindfulness takes center stage, emphasizing genuine connections over self-knowledge. The unpredictable nature of high-stakes situations, particularly in surgery, reveals the transformative potential of embracing uncertainty.

Join geologist Marcia Bjornerud, renowned cave art photographer Stephen Alvarez, and artist Dustin Illetewahke Mater as they explore the concept of deep time versus our fleeting moments. They discuss how ancient rocks and cave paintings serve as records of human history and consciousness. The conversation uncovers the importance of reconnecting with our ancestral roots through art and nature. Discover the emotional pull of cave art, the urgency of addressing climate change, and the philosophical implications of our relationship with the Earth.

Guests Amanda Feilding, a pioneer in psychedelic research, Robin Carhart-Harris, creator of the 'entropic brain' theory, and renowned neuroscientist Christof Koch delve deep into consciousness and psychedelics. They discuss psilocybin's transformative effects and how it can aid in healing trauma. Christof shares his journey exploring 5-MeO-DMT, while Amanda reflects on shifting societal perceptions of psychedelics. Together, they challenge conventional neuroscience, revealing the profound implications these substances have on understanding consciousness.

Delve into the mysteries of eclipses and dark matter, the search for extraterrestrial life, and understanding the vast universe. Hear stories of eclipse chasing, scientific breakthroughs, and transmissions to alien intelligence. Explore the allure of total solar eclipses, the challenges of studying dark matter, and the quest for answers in the universe.

Walter Scheirer, an expert in artificial intelligence and its societal implications, dives into the fascinating world of AI. They discuss whether AI can possess a mind or a soul and explore its stunning capabilities, like creating art and assisting mental health. The conversation also touches on the ethics surrounding deepfakes and robot creativity, revealing the tension between AI's potential and its limitations. Ultimately, the dialogue prompts deep questions about AI’s future role in human creativity and consciousness.

Hip-hop artist Dxtr Spits advocates for emotional openness among men, discussing his How Men Cry movement. Michael Trimble delves into the neuroscience behind why we cry, uncovering its evolutionary significance. Jen Plants explores the emotional resonance of crying in media, emphasizing how films and music can evoke tears. They collectively challenge societal norms around vulnerability, highlighting the necessity of embracing tears as a critical form of human expression and connection.

Pop music is a gazillion-dollar industry that churns out hits and creates celebrities. It seems like the definition of ephemeral – today’s chart topper is gone tomorrow. But pop music is a powerful vehicle for bringing people together, and fans - from K-pop to the #FreeBritney movement — have something to teach us about community and hope. Original Air Date: March 26, 2022 Interviews In This Hour: When we're disconnected, can we reconnect through K-pop? — From pop to punk: Shaping our musical identities — How a fan movement freed a pop star from her gilded cage Guests: Regina Kim, Kyla Nicole, Kelefa Sanneh, Samantha Stark Never 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 2020, Donald Trump won 84 percent of the white evangelical vote.). Lately, he’s been leaning even more deeply into the rhetoric of Christian nationalists. Who are they, and what’s their role in the evangelical church? We talk with some Southern Baptists today, whose views may surprise you. Original Air Date: March 09, 2024 Interviews In This Hour: The 'simmering violence' of Donald Trump and Christian nationalism — Examining the Role of Southern Baptist Women — Why One Black Pastor Left the Southern Baptists Guests: Jeff Sharlet, Beth Allison Barr, John Onwuchekwa Never 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.

Exploring the impact of colonization on Africa, focusing on unraveling cultural erasure and reclaiming identity. Discussions on decolonizing education, literature, and language. Interviews with experts on unlearning the colonial mindset and embracing African heritage. Reckoning with history, resistance through literature, and the struggle to publish in native languages. Insights on the paradox of studying English literature in a colonized world.