How To Academy Podcast

Graham Harman, a Distinguished Professor of Philosophy known for his work on object-oriented ontology, dives deep into the nature of reality. He explores the tension between continuity and discreteness, challenging how we perceive life’s events and societal changes. Harman discusses the philosophical implications of Aristotle's views, contrasts Darwinian theories, and examines the clash in physics between quantum theory and general relativity. He also critiques how human-made entities, like social media, can reshape democracy, urging a reevaluation of our assumptions in today's complex world.

Join Dr. Kevin Hall, a leading nutrition and metabolism scientist, and Julia Belluz, an award-winning health journalist known for her work in nutrition and public health. They unpack the complex relationship between our food environment and eating behaviors. Julia and Kevin debunk common diet myths, revealing that obesity isn't a failure of willpower but rather a system issue. They explore the effects of ultra-processed foods and the impact of economic pressures on food choices, while offering practical steps for healthier living.

Janina Ramirez, an Oxford-based medieval historian and author of Legenda, joins Sir Tony Robinson to unravel the true stories behind famous medieval women like Joan of Arc and Lady Godiva. They discuss how these women's narratives have been distorted by nationalism and myth. Janina highlights the realities of Joan's warrior spirit amid war, the actual legacy of Godgifu, and the shifting roles of women in medieval society. Her insights reveal how history often buries the agency and power of women, prompting a re-evaluation of their impact on our past.

In a thought-provoking conversation with Nicola Sturgeon, Darren McGarvey, an Orwell Prize-winning author and activist, delves into the complexities of trauma in today’s media landscape. He critiques how social media commodifies personal experiences, questioning whether this openness truly aids healing or just perpetuates cycles of vulnerability. They discuss the personal costs of public storytelling, the balance between lived experience and expertise, and the need for ethical considerations in sharing trauma. McGarvey advocates for structural reforms to better support marginalized voices.

Ian Mortimer, a renowned historian and author of the Time Traveller's Guide to England series, dives into the fascinating minutiae of English life throughout the centuries. He discusses how people's experiences have shifted yet retained core traits, from discussions on the worst monarchs to the surprising history of champagne's origins. Mortimer also tackles topics like class dynamics, the importance of sanitation, and even the impact of early vernacular Bibles on literacy. His insights offer a refreshing view of England's past, blending humor with serious historical analysis.

In this engaging conversation, Jimmy Wales, the founder of Wikipedia, shares insights on trust and misinformation in today's world. He reflects on Wikipedia's evolution into a credible source and the challenges it faces from disinformation. Wales emphasizes the necessity of trust for societal function and outlines actionable rules for leaders. He discusses how engaged volunteers maintain Wikipedia's integrity and why it stands apart from social media toxicity. With a focus on facts and collaboration, he urges a restoration of civil debate to combat polarization and misinformation.

Jens Stoltenberg, Former Secretary General of NATO and Prime Minister of Norway, shares his insights from a decade of leadership. He discusses NATO's evolution during conflicts, including the urgency of the Ukraine invasion and the implications of Russia's aggression. Jens reflects on NATO's role in deterrence, the alliance’s relationship with Donald Trump, and the technological challenges ahead. He champions NATO's importance for global security while remaining cautiously optimistic about the future.

Marie Kondo, the renowned tidying expert and author, dives into the harmony of Japanese culture and the art of living with intention. She shares insights on rituals like oosoji for welcoming new year's spirits, and the balance of modern life with ancient customs. Kondo explains the concept of motainai, advocating for mindful living and repurposing objects to avoid waste. She emphasizes daily use of cherished items to spark joy and discusses the importance of family in embracing imperfection. Tune in for practical tips on tidying and finding peace in your home.

Annemarie Jacir, an Oscar-nominated Palestinian filmmaker and a trailblazer in Arab cinema, discusses her latest film, Palestine 36. The film, set during the 1936 Arab Revolt, highlights the personal stories of resilience against colonial rule. Annemarie shares the ten-year journey of bringing this ambitious project to life, including overcoming funding challenges and filming amidst crisis. She explains why Palestinian storytelling is crucial, explores complex character portrayals, and emphasizes the importance of the land in the film's narrative.

Philippa Gregory, a bestselling historical novelist and Tudor historian, delves into the life of Jane Boleyn, revealing her not as a schemer but as a survivor amidst Henry VIII’s tyranny. She discusses how Victorian biases distorted Jane's reputation and explores the silences in history that fiction can fill. Gregory suggests Jane may have acted as a spy for Thomas Cromwell and highlights the importance of women's roles at court in managing power dynamics. Ultimately, she warns against the dangers of concentrated power in today’s politics, drawing parallels from Tudor history.