How To Academy Podcast

Cory Doctorow, an award-winning novelist and activist, dives into the murky waters of Silicon Valley's corruption and technological exploitation. He introduces the concept of 'inshittification,' highlighting how tech platforms sacrifice user satisfaction for profit. Doctorow discusses his latest noirish thriller, 'Picks and Shovels,' revealing the real-life misdeeds that inspired it. With a keen eye on algorithmic wage discrimination and societal issues, he critiques the dark side of modern tech and urges for more integrity in industries plagued by greedy practices.

Alex James, bassist for the iconic band Blur, shares his colorful life as a farmer, author, and music maven. He recounts the emotional return of the band, including their monumental Wembley Stadium gig after years of silence. Alex candidly discusses his crash diet to fit into his ‘Britpop Trousers’ and the hilarity of managing a growing family alongside a chaotic music career. Tales from their South American tour bring nostalgic laughter, highlighting the unpredictable yet vibrant world of touring musicians and the joys of live performance.

Join economist Yanis Varoufakis as he chats with provocative philosopher Slavoj Žižek, known for his challenging perspectives on ideology and capitalism. They dive into whether progress is truly beneficial and tackle the implications of modern technology on society. The duo debates the rise of techno-feudalism and its impact on corporate power, examining the roles of political representation and systemic issues in today's world. With wit and depth, they navigate the complexities of freedom, justice, and the future of political action.

Roberto Trotta, a theoretical physicist and author of "Starborn," explores humanity's enduring relationship with the stars. He discusses how cosmic phenomena have influenced our timekeeping methods, tracing connections from the epic of Gilgamesh to ancient civilizations. Trotta highlights the unique astronomical insights of Neanderthals and indigenous cultures, emphasizing the importance of stargazing in shaping our cultural narratives. With a nod to art and mythology, he encourages rekindling awe for the night sky in our light-polluted world.

Orhan Pamuk, a renowned novelist and Nobel laureate known for works like "Snow" and "The Museum of Innocence," shares insights into his literary journey with Erica Wagner. He discusses the intertwining of art and writing, emphasizing how his travels and daily experiences influence his creativity. Pamuk reflects on Turkey's political landscape and the role of journaling in his work, while also tackling challenges like writer's block. Throughout their conversation, he dives deep into the relationship between imagination, beauty, and struggle in storytelling.

Ariel Zeleznikow-Johnston, an Australian neuroscientist and science communicator, challenges our views on mortality and consciousness in this intriguing conversation. He discusses groundbreaking methods that could preserve human minds beyond death, sparking a debate on the ethics and implications of immortality. Ariel explores humanity's complex relationship with death and suggests a hopeful outlook for the future, emphasizing the importance of intergenerational connections and ethical considerations in advancing these technologies.

Lili Anolik, a Vanity Fair writer and author of "Hollywood's Eve," delves into the fiery relationship between literary icons Joan Didion and Eve Babitz. She uncovers intimate letters that paint a vivid picture of their complex bond. The discussion contrasts Didion’s introspective style with Babitz's vibrant narratives, exploring their different experiences in the literary world. Anolik also highlights how their rivalry reflected broader societal themes, navigating the contrasts between ambition and constraint, Los Angeles versus New York, and the evolving legacies of these two remarkable women.

Lucy Hughes-Hallett, a renowned historian and biographer, dives into the captivating life of George Villiers, the Duke of Buckingham, known for his dazzling beauty and keen intellect. She unravels his intricate relationship with King James I, often mischaracterized in history. The discussion touches on Buckingham's dramatic rise and fall within court politics, the intertwining of personal and political power, and the lasting impact of their bond on art and culture. Hughes-Hallett vividly illustrates Buckingham’s legacy amidst the turbulent Jacobean era.

Renowned biographer Andrew Roberts joins to explore the intricate life of Winston Churchill, marking 150 years since his birth. He discusses Churchill's complex legacy, from his early recognition of threats like Nazism to his pivotal role in World War II. The relationship with America is highlighted as essential for the UK during the war. Roberts also addresses modern misconceptions and the lessons from Churchill's leadership that resonate in today's geopolitical crises, emphasizing the significance of understanding his multifaceted character.

Explore the fascinating side of the seven deadly sins with a neuroscientist's insights. Discover how gluttony and greed might once have been adaptive behaviors for survival. Delve into the reasons behind our moral judgments and why understanding brain functionality matters. Learn about hubris syndrome in leaders and the impacts of stress on fetal brain development. This engaging discussion shifts the narrative from blame to compassion, emphasizing the complexities of human behavior and the importance of supportive environments.