Maiden Mother Matriarch with Louise Perry

Benjamin Goldman, an Assistant Professor of Economics at Cornell University, sheds light on modern marriage dynamics. He reveals the dramatic decline in marriage rates among non-college-educated Americans over the last century. Factors like sex ratios and socioeconomic challenges play key roles in this shift. Goldman discusses how educational attainment intricately influences partner selection and marriage patterns. He also dives into the complexities of interracial and interclass marriages, highlighting their growing challenges and evolving societal perceptions.

Michelle Stone, host of "132 Problems: Revisiting Mormon Polygamy" and mother of 13, shares her captivating insights into the complex world of Mormonism. She discusses the spiritual motivations behind large families and the challenges of motherhood within this unique community. The conversation touches on the historical evolution from polygamy to monogamy and the tensions surrounding fundamentalist practices. Stone also explores the enduring legacy of polygamy and the vital voices of women advocating for change in these traditions.

Esmé Partridge, a researcher at the crossroads of religion, philosophy, and politics, dives into Gen Z's evolving spiritual landscape. She critiques the Church of England's failure to engage youth, as many seek traditional worship over modern methods. The podcast explores trends like #witchtok, showcasing how young women navigate spirituality through eclectic practices. Esmé also highlights the need for genuine faith experiences and the complex relationship between spiritual beliefs and mental health, urging a balanced approach to spirituality.

Alex Mills, a Professor of Biology at York University, delves into the fascinating world of biological sex. He clarifies what 'male' and 'female' truly mean across species and discusses the complexities of intersex variations. The conversation explores why mammals often lack attentive parenting and presents a surprising theory about dinosaur extinction. Additionally, they examine mating behaviors and coercion in nature, drawing parallels to human relationships and societal structures.

Chine McDonald, Director of Theos and author of 'Unmaking Mary,' dives deep into the complexities of modern motherhood. She challenges the myth of perfect motherhood, discussing how societal norms shape feeding choices and the emotional turmoil they can cause. The conversation reveals the stark contrast between historical communal birthing practices and today's isolating experiences, especially in a post-pandemic world. They also explore the impact of technology on motherhood and address the anxieties surrounding infant care.

Julie Bindel, a radical feminist campaigner and journalist, discusses the current state of transgenderism in the UK and her views on accountability within the movement. She addresses a significant legal case affecting women's rights and the interpretation of trans identities. Bindel reflects on the emotional turmoil of public scrutiny while emphasizing the necessity of resilience in activism. Her personal journey into feminism reveals how early influences shaped her commitment to social justice, illustrating the complexities of navigating controversial alliances.

In this discussion, Thomas Chatterton Williams, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of the upcoming book 'Summer of Our Discontent,' dives into the rise of the 'woke right.' He critiques the rejection of liberal principles across the political spectrum and explores the clash between woke movements and mainstream conservatism. Williams unpacks the complexities of race, class, and political affiliations, while addressing the global impact of wokeness and hip-hop culture. His insights challenge us to rethink our political narratives.

Darel E. Paul, a Professor of Political Science at Williams College and author of 'From Toleration to Equality', dives into the remarkable evolution of the LGBT rights movement. He explores how societal views shifted from hostility to acceptance since the 1990s, driven by cultural changes and media representations. The discussion also touches on the impact of the AIDS crisis on public perceptions, the allure of drag culture, and the changing significance of marriage in today's diverse landscape. A thought-provoking conversation on identity and acceptance!

Stone Age Herbalist, a dissident anthropologist and author known for 'Demon Bats & Cocaine Mummies', discusses fascinating insights from hunter-gatherer cultures. He explores the unique atheistic traits of the Pirahã and Comanche tribes, revealing their unconventional beliefs and skepticism towards organized religion. The conversation dives into cross-cultural dynamics, the evolution of spiritual identities, and the challenges faced by missionaries in conveying Christianity. This thought-provoking dialogue questions our understanding of belief, identity, and culture.

Spencer Klavan, host of the Young Heretics podcast and author of 'Light of the Mind, Light of the World', engages in a thought-provoking discussion. He explores the moral dilemmas of evolutionary theory, questioning the ethical standards shaped by Christianity. Topics include the philosophical battle between Darwinism and Christian beliefs, the challenges of nihilism, and the roles of artificial intelligence and human exceptionalism. Klavan encourages listeners to reconcile faith with scientific inquiry, inviting a deeper contemplation of existence.