How To Academy Podcast

Ada Palmer, a novelist, composer, and historian of ideas, takes listeners on an enlightening journey through the Renaissance. She challenges the notion of this period as a mere 'golden age,' exploring its dark undercurrents and societal struggles. From the rise of the Medici to the paradoxical advances in medicine amid rampant mortality, Palmer reveals riveting stories of power, loyalty, and sacrifice. She also discusses how her historical research informs her speculative fiction, blending captivating tales with the complex realities of history.

Sunita Sah, a medical doctor and organizational psychologist at Cornell and Cambridge, emphasizes the importance of saying 'no' to align actions with core values. She discusses how defiance can promote personal growth, urging listeners to assert their beliefs in a conformist society. The conversation touches on the balance between compliance and defiance, especially in professional settings, and highlights the toll of silence in the face of injustice. Sah advocates for quiet defiance as a powerful tool for moral courage and community empowerment.

Anna Sulan Masing, an academic, poet, and journalist, explores the complexities of East and Southeast Asian identity in Britain. She tackles the oversimplification of identities on official documents, revealing the historical roots of 'othering.' Masing delves into the colonial narratives that shape societal perceptions and highlights the importance of diverse storytelling. She critiques racially charged myths, like MSG, and discusses the need for marginalized voices to reclaim their narratives. Throughout, she advocates for joy as a form of resistance in the face of cultural appropriation.

Neal Stephenson, a #1 New York Times bestselling author, explores his new novel 'Polostan,' intertwining history and fiction. He discusses Dawn Rae Bjornberg's journey through pivotal 20th-century events like the Great Depression and her unexpected role as a KGB spy. The conversation covers Magnitogorsk's steel legacy, the socio-political struggles of British polo, and military tactics during upheaval, revealing the fascinating interplay between technology, ideology, and humanity in shaping history.

In a compelling conversation, Lola Young, an activist, actor, and Baroness renowned for her advocacy on modern slavery and climate justice, reveals her extraordinary journey from foster care to prominence. She shares insights on the importance of understanding personal history and how it fuels resilience. Young discusses the role of art in public policy, emphasizing storytelling's power in shaping societal values. She also addresses the need for reform in the House of Lords and highlights poverty as the UK's pressing issue, advocating for compassion in tackling systemic inequalities.

In this thought-provoking conversation, George Monbiot, a Guardian columnist and environmentalist known for tackling neoliberalism, joins comedian Frankie Boyle for a candid discussion. They explore the alarming wealth gap and the philosophical underpinnings that have allowed the rich to dominate. Monbiot critiques neoliberal influences on democracy and public services while advocating for participatory democracy as a remedy. The duo delves into the need for engaging narratives to inspire political action and the urgent call for reform in the face of societal challenges.

Join Adam Zeman, a Professor of Cognitive and Behavioral Neurology at the University of Exeter, as he reveals the fascinating science behind imagination. He discusses how imagination is our default state, influencing our thoughts and actions daily. Zeman explores intriguing concepts like aphantasia, the mind's eye, and the unconscious mechanics of creativity. He highlights how various experiences shape our imagination and creativity, as well as the interplay between art and science. Discover the transformative power of imagination in our lives!

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.