Novara Media

Journalist Lamorna Ash, author of 'Don't Forget We're Here Forever', discusses the evolving relationship between Christianity and younger generations seeking meaning. She poses intriguing questions about the parallels between Christianity and communism, and whether church attendance offers an antidote to modern wellness trends. Ash shares her journey into faith, her experiences as a queer individual in Bible study, and the transformative power of religious communities in navigating contemporary life's complexities.

Aaron and Michael react to unexpected local election outcomes, highlighting the Reform party's narrow win in Runcorn and its implications for Labour. They discuss the shifting political landscape, focusing on the rise of right-wing populism and the influence of media outlets like GB News. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by smaller parties and the potential for local contests to reshape national politics. With changing voter sentiments, they emphasize the necessity for progressive media to counter aggressive political rhetoric.

Roger Hallam, a veteran climate campaigner and co-founder of groups like Extinction Rebellion, shares his experience serving a four-year sentence for activism. He discusses the psychological impacts of incarceration and the ethical dilemmas faced by activists post-release. The conversation explores how imprisonment can serve as a tool for social change, while also touching on the personal sacrifices made by those committed to the cause. Hallam highlights the evolution of direct action amid political backlash and emphasizes the urgent need for unity in the fight against climate change.

In episode three, Clare and Rivkah find out what it’s like to see your loved ones locked up. How do the Just Stop Oil prisoners’ families make sense of their crimes? When your partner is in prison, how can your relationship survive? And what’s it like to know your fiancée would choose activism over you? Final episode coming on 2 May. Help us build people-powered media: https://novara.media/support

Kenneth Roth, former director of Human Rights Watch, delves into the complexities of international law and human rights advocacy. He shares insights from his journey shaped by a childhood marked by World War II, emphasizing the crucial role of public opinion in holding governments accountable. Roth discusses the challenges surrounding immigration policies, the dynamics of shame in international accountability, and the delicate balance of potential solutions in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His reflections underscore the ongoing struggle for human rights amidst shifting democratic values.

The ACFM gang gather for a springtime reading of a prototype acid-communist text by Russian revolutionary Alexandra Kollontai. Download the text and follow along as Nadia, Keir and Jem get their teeth into Make Way for Winged Eros! A Letter to Working Youth, published in 1923.Check out the AK-47 podcast mentioned in this show: https://kristenghodsee.com/podcast Sign up to the ACFM newsletter: https://novaramedia.com/newsletters Help us build people-powered media – pledge your support from as little as £1 a month: https://novara.media/support

In this episode, climate activist George Simonson, known for his daring M25 gantry climb, shares his experiences following a two-year prison sentence for a Just Stop Oil protest. He reveals the emotional turmoil of incarceration and how activists are prepared for life behind bars. The discussion dives deep into the challenges of communication and recreation in prison, the dynamics of fellow inmates, and the resilience needed to cope with isolation. George sheds light on the personal struggles of climate activists and the ripple effects on their loved ones outside.

In episode one of Committed, Clare Hymer and Rivkah Brown meet the imprisoned Just Stop Oil activists who took direct action against the climate crisis and faced dire consequences. By blocking roads, climbing bridges and throwing soup at paintings, they made headlines – and became national hate figures in the process. We find out how four ordinary young people ended up as convicted criminals, at the sharp end of the government’s crackdown on protest. Episode 2 coming on 24 April. Help us build people-powered media: https://novara.media/support

Aaron Bastani was joined by Israeli historian Ilan Pappé for a live recording of Downstream on 7 April at EartH in East London. They discussed the origins of Britain’s Israel lobby, the indoctrination of Israelis, and whether the recent atrocities committed in Gaza and the West Bank are signs of Israel’s imminent collapse. Help us build people-powered media: http://novara.media/support

How does a teenage goodie-two-shoes grow up to be a convicted criminal? On Committed, a new four-part series from Novara Media, we go behind bars to find out why dozens of young climate activists are risking prison for what they believe in – and why Britain’s courts are sending more of them to jail for longer. Committed begins on 22 April in this podcast feed. Help us build people-powered media: novara.media/support