The Audio Long Read

Peter Hessler, an acclaimed author, shares insights from his twin daughters' two-year journey in public school in Chengdu, China. He explores the cautionary tales integral to their education, underscoring how national pride is woven into the curriculum. Hessler contrasts the competitive nature of Chinese classrooms with American dynamics and reflects on cultural expectations around academic success. Through heartfelt anecdotes, he highlights the enriching lessons of Chinese poetry and the emotional connections fostered between teachers and students.

Alexander Stille, an insightful journalist and author, takes listeners on a deep dive into Giorgia Meloni’s fascinating rise to power as Italy's Prime Minister. The discussion highlights her unique blend of traditional and contemporary leadership styles during key global events like the G7 Summit. Stille examines her controversial roots, including a connection to far-right ideology shaped by fantasy literature. He also addresses Italy's economic challenges and Meloni's complex immigration policies, raising crucial questions about her impact on the future.

Gary Younge, former US correspondent for The Guardian and professor at the University of Manchester, reflects on his decade in America, navigating its turbulent political landscape from Obama to Trump. He delves into racial tensions highlighted by movements like Black Lives Matter, emphasizing the fragile nature of social justice. Younge examines systemic inequalities and the complex dynamics of race, particularly how black Americans face unique challenges in society. Through personal anecdotes, he poignantly addresses the ongoing struggle for equity amidst pervasive injustices.

In this fascinating discussion, Joshua Hammer, an author who delves into the intersection of wildlife and human impact, explores Pablo Escobar's notorious legacy through the lens of his hippos. The conversation highlights how these non-native animals have proliferated in Colombia, disrupting local ecosystems. Hammer shares gripping stories about conservation efforts, including the challenges of surgical intervention. The ethical questions surrounding their management and the socio-economic effects on communities add layers to this wild tale of coexistence.

Niamh Campbell, an independent journalist, shares her candid experiences with breastfeeding, exploring the emotional turmoil and societal pressures that influenced her journey. She discusses the intense commitment driven by the fear of inadequacy and the struggle against an often formula-driven culture. Vivid imagery highlights both the joy and isolation of motherhood, revealing poignant reflections on personal and societal expectations. The conversation combines humor and honesty, painting a relatable picture of the challenges new mothers face.

Ian Jack, a thoughtful writer, dives deep into the complex identity of the United Kingdom as it marks a decade of Long Read features. He reflects on the fragile nature of Britishness and the potential impact of Scotland's independence vote. Exploring the historical intricacies, Jack discusses the evolving sentiments of Scottish nationalism and the contributions of 18th-century events to British identity. Through personal anecdotes, he captures the tension between regional pride and the collective history, pondering whether we should mourn the potential loss of this intricate identity.

David Wolf, the editor, and Clare Longrigg, the deputy editor, are joined by Jonathan Shainin, the founder of The Long Read. They celebrate a decade of long-form journalism amidst the rise of quick-click content, discussing the cultural impact of key articles, including the death of the Queen. The team shares captivating stories from conflict zones, like evacuating a family in Khartoum, to quirky investigations into British sandwich culture. They reflect on the evolution and future of storytelling in an ever-changing media landscape.

Ferris Jabr, a journalist specializing in environmental issues, dives into the fascinating world of plankton and their foundational role in marine ecosystems. He unveils how these tiny organisms are crucial for the ocean's health and the existence of complex life on Earth. The discussion highlights the impact of environmental changes on plankton blooms and their historical significance in shaping our planet's climate and human civilization. Jabr paints a vivid picture of a world without plankton, reminding us of their indispensable contribution to life.

Navneet Alang, an insightful author, dives into the hype surrounding artificial intelligence and its societal implications. He warns against over-reliance on AI, suggesting that our fascination may cloud critical thinking. The conversation touches on the dual nature of AI's evolution, balancing promise with peril. Alang questions our expectations of AI regarding consciousness and morality while emphasizing the limitations of tech in solving complex issues. Ultimately, he invites a reflection on how AI reshapes daily life while fundamental human experiences remain timeless.

Siddhartha Deb, a keen writer and journalist renowned for tackling intricate social issues, sheds light on the harrowing plight of 16 activists accused of plotting against India's Prime Minister. The discussion reveals the troubling manipulation of evidence and the crackdown on dissent in Modi's India. From the dubious arrest of human rights activist Rona Wilson to the misuse of anti-terror laws, Deb highlights a chilling narrative of repression, underscoring the dangerous implications for democracy and civil liberties.