How To Academy Podcast

Musician James Blunt joins BBC Six Music's Matt Everett for a conversation that quickly becomes very, very not safe for work. They discuss his filthy, funny, and possibly fictional memoir 'Loosely Based on a Made Up Story.' Blunt shares personal stories including a chaotic night at Le Doux nightclub in LA, supporting soldiers and veterans through Help for Heroes, and a moving experience of singing with Iam Tongi on American Idol. He also talks about his wedding adventure in Ibiza and the meaning behind his albums and personal songs.

Comedian Ruby Wax shares her personal struggles with mental health including her experiences in a monastery, mental institution, and therapy. She discusses challenges of maintaining mindfulness, reflections on a disastrous interview, perceptions and assumptions, depression treatment and recovery, creating a sanctuary at home, and using trips for authentic connection. She also talks about her initiative called frazzled cafe for judgment-free connections.

Physicist Carlo Rovelli and theatre-maker Simon McBurney engage in a thought-provoking conversation about the connection between partnership, art, and science. They discuss the challenge of writing science for all and the dynamic nature of imagination and memory. They also explore the role of problem-solving and creativity, and emphasize the interconnectedness of science, art, and society. Other topics include journeys, black holes and rituals, and the connection between storytelling and constellations.

Renowned psychotherapist Adam Phillips discusses what we must give up to feel more alive. Topics include questioning the assumption of life worth, exploring self-criticism and the power of choosing who to be judged by, expanding language and rethinking loss, and the art of giving up and the pursuit of aliveness.

Stanford Psychiatrist and Addiction Expert Anna Lembke discusses the new neuroscience of pleasure, pain, and balance. Topics explored include the increase in behavioral addictions and the devastating effects they have, the impact of digital media addiction on mental health, treatments for attention deficit disorder, seeking healthy dopamine through diet and exercise, and the regulation of online sex video games and exercise addiction.

Philosopher Daniel Dennett and neurobiologist Robert Sapolsky debate whether human beings have free will. Sapolsky argues that free will is an illusion, while Dennett believes it is compatible with scientific knowledge. They discuss factors influencing decision-making, the role of biology and environment in shaping behavior, the link between free will and genetic attributes, responsibility, and the concept of being 'wired wrong' or 'wired right'.

Psychiatrist and chef Dr Uma Naidoo discusses the impact of nutrition on mental health, including the gut-brain connection, inflammation reduction, and managing anxiety through diet. She explores the benefits of intermittent fasting and suggests 'calm foods' to reduce anxiety and stress, emphasizing the importance of an anti-inflammatory diet.

Times journalist and author Sathnam Sanghera discusses the British Empire and its impact on multiculturalism, the importance of a diverse and comprehensive history curriculum, differences in historical perspectives between Germans and the British, throwing tomatoes at statues as a form of release, navigating the cultural war and online discourse, the 1948 Nationality Act and the Windrush scandal, reimagining the narrative of the British Empire, perspectives on the 'Where Do You Come From?' debate, and the power of storytelling in educating about history.

Data scientist and TED star Hannah Richie joins investor Rosa Sangiorgio to discuss combating climate anxiety. They explore topics including the impact of climate anxiety on young people, the affordability of low-carbon technologies, investing in poorer countries, and the role of youth in addressing climate change.

Economist Mariana Mazzucato discusses the important role of governments in driving innovation and shaping the economy. Testimonials highlight the impact of her entrepreneurial state concept on policy making. They discuss working together in an entrepreneurial way, frustrations of governments losing talent, and the relevance of embracing this approach. The chapter explores the need for long-term thinking, the influence of media on perception, and the value of recognizing work done by individuals in various sectors.