Things Fell Apart

Jon Ronson’s second season of unexpected human stories from the culture wars focused on the divisions that erupted in the wake of the Covid lockdown. It was a number 1 hit podcast and received five star reviews. In a fun, free-flowing live discussion from the Hay Festival in Wales, Jon turns the tables on himself and asks his audience to ask him anything they like.Series Producer: Sarah Shebbeare

Jon Ronson and Adam Buxton chat about their favorite moments from the show, navigating culture wars, lockdown, fatherhood, and social anxiety. They discuss personal and professional challenges, reflections on conservative views, misunderstanding the Great Reset, hero's journey in real life, and a tense encounter in the forest.

Former actor and model, Mickey Willis, shares his journey in Hollywood and the toxic nature of the industry. The influence of Joseph Campbell's hero's journey on Mickey's involvement in the culture wars is explored. Mickey's viral video expressing unconditional love for their child's gender choices made them a figurehead for the transgender movement. The controversy surrounding the Black Lives Matter movement and the dangers of using the hero's journey in documentaries are also discussed.

This podcast explores the controversies surrounding a book called 'The Great Reset' and how it became a target of conspiracy theories. It discusses the influence of right-wing thought leaders like Jordan Peterson and the impact of an essay on ownership in society. The speakers also share their experiences engaging with critics and conspiracy believers, including receiving death threats.

This podcast explores the shift of protests over free speech from college campuses to workplaces, the origins and recognition of PTSD, questions about the Black Lives Matter movement, a discussion about a therapist hired by HR, and navigating backlash and trauma in the culture war.

This podcast explores the struggles faced by a parent and child during lockdown, leading to new laws in Florida. It also discusses a challenging high school experience and the impact of a white supremacist cell. The speaker shares their experiences working at Disney and discovering queer nightlife and Pulse Nightclub. The podcast also delves into navigating a child's transgender identity and debunking controversial rumors about schools providing litter boxes. It concludes with a discussion on misconceptions about school safety and the battle over free speech.

A young man challenges authority during lockdown and finds himself under arrest for a horrific crime. He reflects on his upbringing, discusses his involvement with a militia group, and the arrest of individuals charged with conspiracy to kidnap the governor. The chapter ends with a teaser for the next episode and a podcast promotion.

A family on a camping trip in Forks, Washington becomes embroiled in a culture war sparked by national media and faces hostility from locals. The ousting of Roger Ailes and the leadership vacuum at Fox News is discussed in relation to coverage of Antifa. A protest in response to George Floyd's murder leads to unexpected turnout and tension. Misinformation causes fear and threats to the family while also receiving support from local residents.

A chance encounter between a bartender and a wealthy couple with a sick daughter leads to the creation of a covid conspiracy theory. The podcast explores the cultural war and the debate about Covid being a threat or conspiracy. It also delves into the frustrations faced by scientists and Judy's belief of a conspiracy. Additionally, it discusses Judy's downfall and the unsettling encounter of the hosts on a highway.

The podcast explores the mysterious deaths of 32 black sex workers in Miami in the 1980s and the controversial diagnosis of excited delirium. It discusses the impact of the lockdown on the investigation and raises concerns about racial disparities. The episode also connects the concept of excited delirium to the death of George Floyd and highlights cultural conflicts and personal stories.