A childhood full of Christmasses in Wales has left IDEAS producer Tom Howell pining for a certain kind of nostalgic poem this winter. So he turns to poets to put into words a strange feeling of homesickness, nostalgia, and yearning. *This episode originally aired on December 17, 2020.

In this engaging conversation, jazz drummer Jerry Granelli shares his remarkable journey from child prodigy to a key member of the Vince Guaraldi Trio on the iconic 'A Charlie Brown Christmas.' He reflects on his experiences with jazz legends like Miles Davis and the emotional connection of rhythm. Granelli discusses the intuitive nature of musical creation and the importance of mindfulness in improvisation. The impact of sobriety on his artistic expression and the legacy of beloved songs like 'Christmas Time is Here' add depth to this heartfelt tribute.

Christmas is a minefield of deep philosophical quandaries, like — is it ethically correct to lie to children? Who does a gift really benefit the giver, or receiver? How do we really know Santa exists, or doesn't? Join us on a dramatic journey through the philosophy of Christmas. *This episode originally aired on December 23, 2020.

Scott Lewis, a Jesuit priest and author, dives deep into Thomas Merton's reflections on the true essence of Christmas. He unveils how the Nativity story, traditionally celebrated, carries profound themes of peace amid chaos. Discussion on the Anawim highlights the marginalized as God's faithful, embodying hope in troubling times. Lewis explores how existential emptiness can trigger personal growth and creativity. He emphasizes the power of hope to transform despair, drawing connections to spiritual resilience amidst societal upheaval.

Robin Doolittle, an impactful investigative reporter known for her work on police misconduct, joins veteran journalist Stephen D'Souza and award-winning correspondent Rihanna Croxford from BBC News. They discuss the challenges facing investigative journalism, including the rising threat of disinformation and limited access to information in Canada. The trio highlights their experiences in uncovering sensitive stories, the emotional toll of their work, and the necessity of adapting to a changing media landscape while fighting for transparency and accountability.

Faraj Bayrakdar, a Syrian poet and former political prisoner, spent 14 harrowing years enduring torture. He reveals how poetry became his lifeline and a beacon of resistance. Faraj discusses the essence of inner freedom, asserting that true autonomy exists beyond physical imprisonment. He shares poignant reflections on the river Al-Asi, drawing parallels between its flow and themes of rebellion. His story illustrates how creativity can thrive even in the direst conditions, underscoring the transformative power of art in the face of oppression.

The Huarochirí Manuscript is one of the few surviving records of Quechua worldviews in the early modern era. It was once used by the Catholic Church to identify and eradicate “idolatries.” But today, for philosophy professor Jorge Sanchez-Perez, the manuscript is a tool for reconstructing and revitalizing Andean metaphysics. *This episode originally aired on Feb. 6, 2023.

Join Gerard Wright, an expert on antimicrobial resistance, Clement Gosselin, a leading robotics researcher, and Sylvain Moineau, known for his work with bacteriophages, as they discuss their groundbreaking research. Wright highlights the urgent fight against antibiotic resistance, sharing personal insights on its real-world impact. Gosselin reveals innovations in robotic hands, addressing ethical challenges. Moineau explores the potential of phages in biotechnology, emphasizing their role in ecological monitoring and combating resistance in the face of climate change.

Leilani Farha, Global Director of The Shift and former UN Special Rapporteur on the right to housing, passionately explores the profound relationship between humanity and housing. She discusses how homes have become mere commodities, stripping them of emotional significance. The conversation highlights the impact of neoliberalism on housing affordability, the dehumanization wrought by financialization, and the pressing need to recognize housing as a fundamental human right. Farha’s insights urge listeners to reevaluate the true essence of home and advocate for a more humane approach to housing.

Dr. Jillian Horton, a medical doctor and author, explores the war metaphor in medicine, discussing its emotional toll on healthcare workers. Alan Alda, legendary actor known as Hawkeye in M*A*S*H, shares how his character influenced medical professionals. Historian Dr. Agnes Arnold Forster provides historical insights into the intertwining of medicine and warfare. Together, they examine the impact of militaristic language and the urgent need for a kinder approach to healthcare, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.