The Audio Long Read

Kim Ju-sŏng, an aspiring writer in North Korea, shares their doomed career as a novelist in the hermit kingdom. The podcast covers topics such as the intricate process of artistic production in North Korea, forbidden novels and risky obsessions, a surprising encounter at a party official's home, the uncertain fate of handwritten copies, and the speaker's failed career as a novelist

TB Joshua, a divisive Nigerian pastor, captivated an evangelical Christian community in Hampshire and built a global following. This podcast explores the troubling side of his church, the phenomenon of healing ministries in Nigeria, TB Joshua's influence and manipulation, and the aftermath of his death.

Exploring failed migration policies and the consequences they bring, such as border deaths and professionalization of human smuggling. Migration control used as leverage for aid and economic benefits. How destination states benefit from politics of border control. The transformation of borders into barriers and the rise of a globalized border business. Treating human movement as a security problem fuels smuggling business and benefits abusive security forces.

Growing up during The Troubles, the author discusses the constant presence of helicopters and border checkpoints. They explore their search for sanctuary and a sense of belonging, reflecting on the challenges of living in a society that excluded them. The narrator ventures to London, searching for traces of Irish migrants and finding solace in Alsasia. They explore the duality of a specific historical area and reflect on the impact of The Troubles on their family and the loss of sanctuary.

The podcast explores the battle to save the historic Whitechapel Bell Foundry from becoming a boutique hotel. It discusses the clash between global finance and local interests, preservation efforts, and the decline of church bell foundries. The chapter also delves into the fascinating bell-making process and the ongoing debate between job opportunities and heritage preservation.

Follow the captivating story of Linda, a chimpanzee raised by humans before being taken to a Swedish zoo. Learn about the dramatic escape of several chimpanzees and the difficult decision faced by the zoo director. Explore the changes in priorities at the zoo, the presence of hunters patrolling the park, and the emotional toll on the zookeepers. Reflect on the loss of four chimpanzees and the irreplaceable bond between caretakers and the animals.

Andrew Wylie, agent to an extraordinary number of the planet’s biggest authors, discusses his influential career, aggressive tactics, chaotic past, and the importance of renowned authors in the publishing world.

Maria Diemar, a woman adopted from Chile, uncovers the scandal of stolen children. The podcast explores the challenges of investigating international adoptions, the betrayal of adoptive parents, and the lack of systemic investigation. It also follows Diemar's journey to discover her roots and reconnect with her birth mother.

This podcast explores the strategy and potential power of the BDS movement in addressing Israel's violations of international law. It discusses the tactics used by BDS, the danger of allowing a state to act with impunity, and the legal intimidation faced by BDS supporters. It also highlights the growing acceptance and effectiveness of BDS as a non-violent response to Israel's war crimes, emphasizing the need for international intervention and accountability.

Explore the prevalence of ghostly beliefs in urban China and their impact on social life and urban space. Learn about unique funeral rituals in Nanjing and the fear of death and burial places in China's major cities. Discover the presence of death and ghosts in China's cities, despite the lack of visits to cemeteries and funeral homes.