The Audio Long Read

A dive into how claims of campus censorship became a political weapon. Traces the rise of the “snowflake” narrative and its media amplification. Explores why free speech rhetoric suits conservative cultural anxieties. Examines sensational headlines, platform attention economies, and how panic masks deeper economic and political problems.

A retraced journey along the HS2 route reveals construction's visible footprint on landscapes and communities. Locals describe prolonged disruption from lorries, roadworks and closed footpaths. Engineering choices and spiraled costs are examined alongside environmental trade-offs like tree felling and bat protections. Farmers and homeowners share stories of paperwork, compensation delays and lives upended.

A former officer recounts shocking cell violence, overdoses and the strain of delivering death notifications. The story examines rising assaults, failing support systems and overcrowding that fuel repeated harm. It contrasts high-security realities with quieter moments where education and dialogue helped reduce conflict.

Louisa Lim, a journalist and author who studies Hong Kong history and culture, revisits the life of Tsang Tsou-choi, the King of Kowloon. She narrates discovering his rain-revealed calligraphy and traces his rise from eccentric street writer to cultural icon. The story follows contested exhibitions, preservation efforts, and how his public scrawl resurfaced amid Hong Kong protests.

Journalists describe leaving their country to avoid arrest after releasing videos about alleged links between gang leaders and the president. They recount state accusations, leaked arrest plans and new laws used to silence critics. The story covers cancelled return plans, a warned airport arrest that forced exile, and the emotional toll of life uprooted in a neighboring country.

The podcast dives into the grim history of Tadamon, where residents recall a chilling burning smell during the war. It reveals horrific footage of executions and the identification of a shooter linked to Assad's regime. Survivors share harrowing tales of mass graves and torture sites, shedding light on ethnic cleansing. There's a surprising turn of reconciliation after Assad's fall, but tensions simmer as former regime figures like Fadi Sakhar work with the new government, igniting community outrage and fears of renewed violence.

Explore the profound insights of Paul Gilroy, a leading scholar navigating race and racism. Discover his critiques on British nationalism and identity politics, and his reflections on the implications of 2020's anti-racist mobilizations. Delve into his concept of conviviality and his radical humanism, contrasting with Afro-pessimism. With a unique blend of history and personal narrative, Gilroy’s journey from academic exile to influential thinker highlights the urgent need for a collective understanding of humanity.

Discover how Fuchsia Dunlop became a key figure in popularizing Sichuan cuisine among both Westerners and Chinese food lovers. The podcast dives into her culinary journey from Cambridge to Chengdu, highlighting the rich history of Chinese cooking and the artistry behind its techniques. Explore how she challenges gender norms in the culinary world and her efforts to elevate the perception of Chinese food globally. The discussion also touches on the nostalgia for old Chengdu and the cultural significance of traditional food practices.

Exploring the unexpected danger of Buddhist extremism, the discussion uncovers how Theravada monks have shifted towards nationalist agendas in Sri Lanka and Myanmar. It contrasts the philosophy's peaceful image with historical instances of violence. The rise of militant movements is linked to global autocratic trends, while leaders like Nanasara exploit rhetoric on social media, igniting real-world violence. The silence of moderate clergy raises questions about complicity, highlighting a complex interplay between religion, identity, and nationalism.

Explore how Strava transformed from a cycling app to a running community powerhouse, offering motivation and community support. Discover the gamified thrill of leaderboards and the competition for segments, which can sometimes lead to risky behaviors. Hear personal stories about the addiction to performance data and the toll it can take. Delve into the app's global reach, its monetization strategies, and the debate over constant tracking, while balancing community connection with the desire for freedom from data.