Discover the fascinating world of ancient Mesopotamian cuisine, with recipes dating back 3,700 years. Explore the culinary heritage of the Assyrian people and their influence on modern cooking. Personal stories highlight the evolution of cherished family recipes, linking past and present traditions. The emotional journey from rural Turkey to New York unveils the significance of preserving cultural identity through food. Each dish tells a story, connecting generations and enriching our understanding of heritage.

Joining the conversation are Louis Wise, Deputy Editor of HTSI, renowned for his insights on luxury men's fashion, and Harriet Fitch Little, the Food and Drink Editor for FT Magazine, who brings her expertise in culinary trends. They explore the art of thoughtful gift-giving, sharing strategies to relieve holiday stress and showcase meaningful gifts. Expect whimsical critiques of holiday dishes like turducken, creative gift ideas that emphasize personal connections, and tips on enjoying a more mindful, magical December.

Richard Linklater, the renowned filmmaker behind classics like School of Rock and Boyhood, discusses his latest thriller, Hit Man. He dives into the film's exploration of identity and masculinity, highlighting a philosophy professor’s transformation into a faux hitman. Linklater also reflects on how personal experiences, including the pandemic, shape one's sense of self and authenticity. Additionally, he shares insights into the evolution of filmmaking amidst digital changes and the importance of genuine human connections in today's world.

Eli Zabar, the owner of gourmet shops and restaurants in NYC, shares insights from his rich culinary journey. He reflects on leaving his family's well-known grocery business to pursue high-quality ingredients inspired by European markets. Eli discusses the art of gourmet sandwich making, showcasing his famous creations like whitefish and pastrami, and emphasizes the importance of fresh ingredients. Additionally, he explores the evolution of American food culture and the sophistication of modern consumers.

Anna Nicolaou, U.S. media editor for the Financial Times, and Eric Platt, Senior corporate finance correspondent for the same publication, share their insights from the New York premiere of the film adaptation of 'Wicked.' They discuss the film's faithfulness to the beloved Broadway musical and explore its themes of friendship and societal issues. The duo highlights standout performances, especially by Ariana Grande, and reflects on the storytelling's evolution from 'The Wizard of Oz'. They also touch on personal media preferences and the cultural landscape of modern entertainment.

Robert Armstrong, a financial commentator and men’s fashion columnist, and Eric Platt, a corporate finance writer and fashion expert, dive into the playful transformation of men's fashion. They discuss the rise of skimpy attire like crop tops and short shorts, reflecting a shift in masculinity and societal norms. The conversation touches on body positivity, the influence of queer culture, and changing beauty standards under social media scrutiny. Emphasizing light-hearted expression, they explore how modern choices reflect joy amidst serious times.

Danny Leigh, FT's insightful film critic known for his compelling interviews, joins India Ross, the deputy news editor with a knack for cultural commentary, to discuss the film 'Anora.' They explore its unconventional love story between a Brooklyn sex worker and a Russian oligarch's son, examining its comedic and melancholic tones. The conversation dives into themes of power dynamics, societal critiques, and the respectful portrayal of marginalized communities, while highlighting the film's critical acclaim and its potential Oscar buzz.

Jancis Robinson, a world-renowned wine expert and author of the Oxford Companion to Wine, shares her insights on starting a wine collection. She discusses the journey from casual drinking to serious collecting, highlighting the importance of proper storage and the benefits of a wine fridge. Jancis explores the nuances of orange wine and offers tips for creating a budget wine cellar with selections from Bordeaux. She emphasizes balancing enjoyment with investment potential and provides valuable resources for both novices and seasoned collectors.

Ludo Hunter-Tilney, FT's pop critic known for his insightful music reviews, and Arwa Haider, a talented music and culture writer, share their expert advice on discovering new music. They discuss the struggle against algorithm-driven uniformity and emphasize personal curation and human connections. The duo showcases emerging artists, sparks conversations between generations, and highlights sustainable initiatives in the music industry. Expect fresh recommendations and tips to enhance your listening journey!

Ariella Budick, a US art critic for the Financial Times with a Ph.D. in photography history, discusses the evolution of photography amid claims of its demise. She examines how smartphones and AI have transformed the medium yet emphasizes its resilience and adaptability. Budick highlights the shift from traditional documentary styles to new methods of storytelling and the ongoing challenges of authenticity in the digital age. Additionally, she reflects on the unique emotional depth that human photographers bring, contrasting it with the limitations of AI.