How To Academy Podcast

Hope Reese, a journalist and author of The Women Are Not Fine, dives into the chilling tale of the 'Angel Makers' of Nagyrév, a small Hungarian village in the early 20th century. She unravels the harrowing motivations behind women poisoning their husbands, reflecting on themes of desperation and retribution. The discussion reveals the severe societal pressures these women faced, the complexities of marriage as an economic arrangement, and the role of a midwife who offered dark solutions amidst community secrets. It’s a haunting exploration of agency in a world rife with domestic violence.

Dr. Grace Spence Green, a medical doctor and disability advocate, shares her transformative journey after a spinal injury at 22. She reflects on the profound impact of ableism in healthcare and the vital role of empathy in patient interactions. Grace discusses the importance of redefining disability language and the need for inclusivity in medicine. She highlights how her experiences as a patient have enhanced her understanding of her own patients, calling for a shift in societal perceptions around disability and advocating for radical acceptance.

Colin Butfield, a filmmaker and co-author with David Attenborough, discusses the ocean's wonders, sharing a captivating narrative about a sperm whale's hunt intertwined with a mother's love that revealed war atrocities. Historian Ian Kumekawa sheds light on the global economy's complexities through the unique journey of a container ship, the Bibby Resolution. The podcast also features readings from Sir David Attenborough and other literary icons, exploring themes of resilience, cultural impact, and the intricate bond between nature and human stories.

Laura Spinney, a science journalist and author of 'Proto', dives into the captivating story of Proto-Indo-European, the ancient language that shaped much of the world today. She discusses the linguistic journey from the Black Sea to regions like Scotland and China, emphasizing how migrations and cultural exchanges influenced language evolution. Spinney also unpacks the vital role of the Yamnaya people in this spread, challenging notions of violent conquest, and highlights how language intertwines with identity and historical narratives across diverse civilizations.

John Tregoning, a Professor of Vaccine Immunology at Imperial College London and author of 'Live Forever?', takes listeners on a fascinating exploration of aging, wellness, and mortality. He discusses the interplay between genetics, environment, and lifestyle in health outcomes, alongside the significance of confronting social stigma in healthcare. John also highlights the evolving landscape of diagnostics, the benefits of nature, and the importance of understanding one’s body. Prepare to rethink aging with insights that blend science and personal experience!

Petra Costa, a Brazilian filmmaker renowned for her Oscar-nominated work on democracy, dives deep into Brazil's political turmoil. She discusses her latest documentary, exploring how evangelical Christianity has wedged itself into far-right movements. The impact of familial political divides on her filmmaking journey comes to light, alongside the rise of Dominion theology within Brazilian evangelicalism. Costa warns of the chaos this presents to democracy, stressing the need for dialogue in today’s polarized society.

Joining the conversation is Dolly Jones, a journalist and author of 'Leaving the Ladder Down', a resource for merging career ambitions with motherhood. Dolly shares her journey of finding practical advice and uplifting stories from diverse women across various fields. She highlights the societal pressures working mothers face, discusses the need for supportive workplace policies, and emphasizes empathy among colleagues. Through personal anecdotes, she advocates for solidarity among women to navigate the often challenging balance of career and family.

Thomas Levenson, historian of science and author of 'So Very Small,' takes listeners on a captivating journey through the evolution of germ theory. He reveals the monumental shift from miasma beliefs to microbial understanding, showcasing how pioneers like Hooke and Pasteur changed the face of public health. Levenson highlights Cotton Mather's controversial role in promoting smallpox inoculation and discusses the legacy of hand hygiene championed by Semmelweis in maternal health. He stresses the ongoing importance of vaccinations in modern society.

Jeremy Hunt, former Foreign Secretary and Chancellor of the Exchequer, presents a bold vision for Britain's role in the contemporary world. He discusses the impact of Brexit and the challenges posed by rising global powers. Hunt advocates for a compassionate immigration policy and emphasizes the significance of addressing economic inequalities. He also tackles the UK's climate strategy, defense spending amidst geopolitical tensions, and the need for inclusive growth. With insights from two decades at the forefront of politics, Hunt outlines paths to restoring Britain's leadership.

Robin Ince, a comedian and public science broadcaster, shares his journey with ADHD and the insights from his new book on neurodiversity. He discusses the impact of diagnosis on self-discovery, emphasizing vulnerability and the joy of connecting with others. Ince candidly explores anxiety, societal misconceptions, and the challenges of emotional expression, advocating for a more inclusive approach to neurodiversity. Through personal stories, he highlights the beauty in embracing unique traits and celebrates autistic voices, inspiring empathy and understanding.