How To Academy Podcast

Join cultural commentator John Higgs, author of 'Exterminate Regenerate', as he delves into the fascinating journey of Doctor Who. He explores how a low-budget show grew into a cultural cornerstone for millions. Higgs highlights the show's dynamic relationship with its fans, the evolution of its characters, and the importance of female representation. Discover Doctor Who as a modern myth that adapts to societal changes and navigates the challenges of today's streaming landscape. It's a whimsical exploration of imagination and storytelling!

In this engaging conversation, Anne-Laure Le Cunff, an award-winning neuroscientist and former Google exec, discusses how curiosity can fuel personal growth without the burnout of traditional goal-setting. She challenges the myth of a single life purpose, advocating for an 'experimental mindset' that embraces small passions. Anne-Laure introduces 'tiny experiments' for self-improvement and emphasizes the importance of mindful productivity by focusing on quality experiences over mere tasks. She also highlights the value of community in personal discovery and redefining success.

Edward Fishman, a foreign policy expert and Senior Research Scholar at Columbia University, dives into the evolution of economic warfare. He discusses how sanctions have transitioned from Cold War tactics to modern measures against Iran, Russia, and China. Fishman highlights the chaos that economic coercion can cause when misused. The conversation also explores pivotal historical events, such as the Iran nuclear deal and the 2014 Crimea crisis, showcasing the significant geopolitical shift in U.S. foreign policy centered on financial strategies.

Maya Raichoora, an award-winning entrepreneur and the UK's leading mental fitness and visualization expert, shares her insights on harnessing visualization for success. She discusses how elite athletes use these techniques and offers practical steps for everyday application. Maya reveals her personal journey with health challenges and underscores the mind's role in healing. She emphasizes self-empowerment, the importance of managing negative thought patterns, and how visualization can foster creativity and confidence in all aspects of life.

Discover a neglected history through 101 intriguing objects that tell the stories of women's lives. From the empowering symbol of Lilith to the powerful myth of Demeter, the podcast uncovers the complexity of female identity and struggle. Learn about the significance of everyday items like women's pockets and how they shaped roles and perceptions over centuries. The discussion connects historical narratives to contemporary issues, emphasizing the resilience and ongoing fight for empowerment in various cultures.

Gary Lightbody, the lead singer of Snow Patrol, shares his poignant journey through grief after losing his father in 2019. He discusses how this loss inspired his latest album, 'The Forest is the Path,' blending themes of love, forgiveness, and emotional expression. Lightbody reflects on the intersection of creativity and grief, families, and the weight of past regrets. He also touches on finding peace in the complexities of Northern Ireland, emphasizing that genuine connection goes beyond mere political harmony.

Kenneth Roth, the Executive Director of Human Rights Watch for thirty years, shares his relentless pursuit of justice in the face of global human rights abuses. He emphasizes the power of information and social media in advocating for accountability, while detailing the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and anti-Semitism in discourse. Roth critiques the focus on non-Western countries in human rights advocacy, urging a broader perspective that includes Western nations. His insights reveal the ongoing struggle for truth amidst censorship and oppression.

Selena Wisnom, a scholar and playwright focused on Mesopotamian civilization, takes listeners on a captivating journey through history. She reveals the significance of the Royal Library of Nineveh, showcasing how it preserved vast knowledge. Wisnom dives into the complexities of cuneiform and the Epic of Gilgamesh, connecting ancient stories to modern literature. Additionally, she discusses the intriguing relationships between Mesopotamian gods and their influence on later cultures, illustrating how ancient beliefs resonate in today's world.

Agnes Callard, a philosopher at the University of Chicago and author of "Open Socrates," discusses the enduring relevance of Socratic wisdom in today's post-truth society. She explores how Socratic dialogue can navigate polarization and emphasize the importance of engaging opposing viewpoints. Callard delves into life's profound questions, from mortality to grief, highlighting the necessity of dialogue in understanding our existential journeys. She also examines the value of philosophical conversations in fostering human connections, especially in an era dominated by superficial interactions.

Whether its the football pitch of the FIFA Women’s World Cup or the diving board of the Olympics, Dr Kate Hays is a woman who knows how to win. Now she joins us to reveal the techniques that create winning mentalities - from breathing techniques to widening the bases from which we draw confidence - that allow us to create the best performance under the greatest pressure.An essential conversation for any individual who wants to succeed, any team which wants to thrive, and anyone who wants to fulfil their potential. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices