How To Academy Podcast

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.

In a powerful conversation, Caroline Darian, daughter of infamous criminal Dominique Pelicot, shares her journey of resilience and activism. She confronts the duality of her upbringing, illuminating the trauma from her father's hidden crimes. Caroline speaks passionately about the overlooked crisis of chemical submission in sexual violence, advocating for cultural change. Joined by journalist Afua Hirsch, they explore the importance of storytelling, the complexities of healing, and the urgent need for accountability in a society that often turns a blind eye to abuse.

In this engaging discussion, Jonathan Watts, Global Environment Editor for The Guardian, shares the tragic story of journalist Dom Phillips, who was killed while championing the Amazon rainforest. Watts highlights the vital importance of preserving the Amazon amidst corruption and deforestation. He delves into innovative sustainable practices in agriculture, the invaluable role of Indigenous knowledge in conservation, and the emotional journey of completing Phillips's book. The conversation also touches on global implications, emphasizing the urgent need for local solutions to protect our planet.

Isabel Allende, a renowned Chilean-American novelist, discusses her latest heroine Emilia del Valle, a journalist navigating the Chilean Civil War of 1891. The conversation intertwines past and present, revealing how storytelling empowers marginalized voices against tyranny. Allende reflects on the moral complexities faced by reporters, the significance of strong female characters, and the role of personal narratives in understanding humanity. She emphasizes the necessity of resisting censorship and celebrates the transformative power of literature in confronting contemporary injustices.

Daniel Davis, Head of Life Sciences and Professor of Immunology at Imperial College, dives into the complex world of immune health. He debunks myths around Vitamin C and explores the unique genetics that shape our immune responses. The discussion touches on how chronic stress and sleep affect immunity, alongside the interplay between the microbiome and health. Davis also addresses the skepticism surrounding vaccines and emphasizes the need for skepticism toward oversimplified health claims, advocating for evidence-based understanding.

Glennon Doyle, a bestselling author and co-host of the We Can Do Hard Things podcast, joins her sister Amanda Doyle, a passionate advocate, to explore navigating life's toughest questions. They dive into the duality of human nature, sharing inspiring stories of bravery amidst oppression. The discussion shifts to empowering vulnerable children and the importance of collective action in seeking justice. They also reflect on the complexities of trust and family dynamics, before lightening the mood with joyful personal anecdotes about life's simple pleasures.