Maiden Mother Matriarch with Louise Perry

In this engaging discussion, Michaeleen Doucleff, an NPR correspondent and author of 'Hunt, Gather, Parent,' dives into the world of alternative parenting. She compares Western parenting trends to communal practices in hunter-gatherer societies, emphasizing the benefits of integrating children into adult life. Doucleff advocates for a balanced approach to safety and exploration, slow parenting that values everyday tasks, and the importance of community support. This thought-provoking conversation challenges listeners to rethink modern parenting norms.

In this engaging discussion, Joshua Dale, a professor at Chuo University and author of 'Irresistible', delves into the fascinating origins of cuteness in Japan. He explores how cultural perspectives on childhood differ between Japan and Europe and the historical roots of kawaii culture. Topics include the influence of domestication on our emotional responses, the evolution of character design in Japan, and the unique aesthetics of manga. Dale also discusses how cuteness impacts social connections and reflects broader societal trends.

Roanne van Voorst, an anthropologist and assistant professor at the University of Amsterdam, explores the chilling world of sex robots and AI relationships. She shares her experience visiting a sex robot brothel, revealing unsettling realities about emotional attachments to these machines. The conversation delves into the ethics of virtual companionship and its impact on real human connections. Roanne discusses how technology shapes romantic relationships and the implications of AI's growing role in intimacy, highlighting both desire and the dilemmas that arise from it.

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Abigail Favale, a writer and professor at the University of Notre Dame, delves into the complex interplay between feminism and Catholic theology. She explores the contrasting creation narratives in Genesis and ancient myths, shedding light on gender dynamics. Favale discusses the evolution of women's studies, the challenges of female representation in academia, and the impact of Christianity on modern feminist thought. Her reflections on motherhood and Catholic teachings offer a unique perspective on sexual difference and bodily imagery in faith.

David Goodhart, founder of Prospect magazine and author of 'The Care Dilemma', dives into the unintended consequences of women's liberation. He discusses how women's entry into the labor market has reshaped family dynamics and gender roles, highlighting the economic impact on societal perceptions of care. Goodhart critiques the rising costs of childcare and advocates for better financial support during early childhood. He examines the emotional strain of balancing work and family, alongside the societal shifts affecting parenthood and declining birth rates.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.louiseperry.co.ukMy guest today is Mike Israetel, bodybuilding and fitness consultant, former Professor of Nutrition and Sport Science, and co-founder of Renaissance Periodization. We spoke about why women benefit from lifting heavy weights even more than men do in terms of metabolic health, longevity, bone density, and day-to-day living. Will you risk getting bulky? Is…

Tracing Woodgrains, a writer on Substack and former producer for Blocked & Reported, shares his journey as an ex-Mormon with deep roots in the faith. He discusses the challenges of reconciling his identity as a gay man within a traditional community. Key topics include the evolving norms around sexuality, generational shifts in family structures, and the struggles faced by those leaving the church. The conversation touches on intellectual challenges post-Mormonism and the implications of declining fertility trends among Mormons.

Ray Blanchard, a celebrated sexologist and Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto, dives deep into the fascinating origins of sexual orientation. He highlights the intriguing birth order effect on male homosexuality, revealing how the number of older brothers might influence sexual identity. The conversation also touches on the complexities of bisexuality, societal perceptions, and cultural phenomena like fa'afafina in Samoa. Blanchard unpacks the delicate interplay between genetics, environment, and sexual fluidity, offering insightful perspectives on human attraction.

Niccolo Soldo, a writer known for his in-depth exploration of HIV/AIDS history in America, dives into the early struggles and cultural dynamics of the epidemic. He reveals the impact of the gay liberation movement on public health discourse and challenges mainstream narratives around the crisis. With a critical look at the role of activism, he unpacks the stigma and misinformation that shaped societal views, and reflects on the profound effects of AIDS on identity and community during the 1980s.

Malcolm Collins, a pronatalist campaigner and co-founder of the Collins Institute, dives deep into the complexities of modern religion. He discusses the alarming drop in religious adherence and its effects on fertility and mental health. The conversation highlights the need to evolve traditional religious structures to meet contemporary values while empowering children with critical knowledge. They also tackle the intersection of modern sexuality and religious teachings, proposing a re-evaluation of these doctrines to enhance intergenerational understanding.