How To Academy Podcast

Slavoj Žižek, one of the most outrageous and maverick thinkers of our time, joins Robin Ince for deep dive into his life and thought. From his life and education in the former Yugoslavia under communist rule, where his master’s thesis was denounced by the authorities for being ‘not Marxist enough’ and he fought to democratise Slovenia and defend human rights, to his current position as one of the 21st century’s most renowned public intellectuals, Slavoj Žižek has travelled into territory where few of us dare to tread. The man widely known as ‘the most dangerous philosopher in the West’ reflects on his life and our times with Robin Ince, for a chat covering cinema, sex and science. Where does America go next? What does Lacan mean today? Is progress really a good thing? The philosophical rockstar shares his take on 2025 and beyond. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Muscle: it shapes us and allows us to shape who we want to be. Author and athlete Bonnie Tsui explores the world of muscle in all its rich personal, cultural, and biological complexity. From the intricate link between muscle and brain health, to redefining strength and societal roles, to how our muscle allows us to feel more present in our everyday life, Bonnie reveals how muscle is far more than just what we are made of. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gabriel Weston, an award-winning novelist and surgeon, shares his unique insights on the human anatomy and the emotional depth of medicine. He discusses his transformative journey from literature to surgery, highlighting the emotional complexities of both fields. Weston reflects on the intimate connections forged during surgical procedures and autopsies, diving into personal narratives about health crises and parental vulnerability. He also challenges societal misconceptions about gender and anatomy, making a poignant case for empathy in healthcare.

Yung Pueblo, a New York Times bestselling author, meditator, and poet, shares his enlightening journey towards healthier love. He discusses the importance of genuine communication, self-reflection, and compassion in relationships. Through personal anecdotes, he addresses the pitfalls of ego and attachment, emphasizing the need for preventative communication. Yung Pueblo also explores how mindfulness and embracing imperfection can foster deeper connections and emotional resilience, ultimately guiding us to love ourselves and others more fully.

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.