How To Academy Podcast

In this insightful conversation, Saad Mohseni, CEO of Moby Group, shares his journey building Afghanistan's largest media company amidst immense challenges. From establishing a radio station in a post-Taliban landscape to advocating for a free press, he reflects on the resilience of Afghan journalists. The discussion highlights the struggles faced by women in media under Taliban rules and the evolving dynamics of media in authoritarian contexts. Mohseni’s personal anecdotes reveal a hopeful narrative, illustrating the power of journalism in times of despair.

Dr. Mithu Storoni is a Cambridge-trained surgeon and neuroscientist who specializes in optimizing brain function for creativity and productivity. In this engaging discussion, she explores how traditional work environments stifle creativity and advocates for new workplace designs. She emphasizes the importance of aligning work with natural mental rhythms for better focus. Storoni also discusses effective strategies for managing work intensity, the significance of purposeful breaks, and the interplay of physical activity and cognitive performance in enhancing creativity.

Cambridge statistician David Spiegelhalter, renowned for his work in risk and probability, discusses how to navigate uncertainty in our lives. He illustrates the role of chance, luck, and randomness with engaging anecdotes, showing how we often misinterpret probabilities. Spiegelhalter emphasizes the importance of statistical reasoning in decision-making, particularly in health and gambling. He also explores how understanding uncertainty can empower us, encouraging a mindset that embraces the unknown while recognizing our limitations in predicting the future.

Discover the interplay between kindness and competence in professional settings. Learn how women can assert themselves without sacrificing likability. The conversation delves into effective communication, networking strategies, and the importance of self-awareness. Explore balancing authenticity with strategic self-promotion. Gain insights on reputation building and navigating office politics while staying true to oneself. Plus, practical advice for handling insincere praise while defining your legacy in the workplace!

Alan Moore, celebrated as the greatest comic writer with iconic works like Watchmen and V for Vendetta, joins Robin Ince to discuss the power of storytelling in our tech-driven age. They explore how ancient forms of narration hold unique magic, particularly in the backdrop of Moore's new novel, The Great When. Topics include the intersection of magic and politics in fantasy, the role of language in reader engagement, and the evolving relationship between traditional art and modern technology. Expect witty insights and reflections on creativity!

Yuval Noah Harari, bestselling author of 'Sapiens,' discusses how modern information networks shape human narratives. He examines the threats of misinformation and how societies can seek truth in chaotic times. Harari highlights the interplay between AI and democracy, emphasizing the pressing need for new narratives to adapt to technological evolutions. He also reflects on the historical roots of conflict in the Middle East and draws parallels between past witch hunts and today's conspiracy theories, urging critical thinking in the digital age.

Robyn Davidson, renowned for her epic trek across the Australian desert, shares her profound journey into her past. She reflects on her idyllic childhood in Malabar and the complex dynamics of her family, shaped by loss and artistic aspirations. Music becomes a key to rediscovering memories amidst grief, leading to impactful stories of mentorship that fueled her writing journey. Through tales of nomadic life and the fragile beauty of the Australian landscape, she uncovers the deep connections and legacies that continue to shape her identity.

Rebecca F. Kuang, an award-winning author and PhD candidate at Yale, shares her literary journey and the inspiration behind her bestselling novel, 'Yellowface.' She discusses the complexities of success versus personal struggle in the publishing world. The conversation dives into issues of diversity, representation, and the ethical implications of storytelling. Kuang also reflects on the impact of social media on writing and character development, illustrating how personal experiences inform her work. Don't miss her insights on navigating creativity in today's literary landscape.

Natalie Lawrence, a historian of science with a PhD from Cambridge, delves into the fascinating world of monsters, exploring their significance in early modern natural history. She discusses the allure of childhood curiosities like dinosaurs and the psychological depths of iconic figures like Medusa. Lawrence highlights how dragons embodied natural forces and how monstrous identities evolved during colonial times. She also takes listeners on a journey through the eerie beauty of sea creatures, revealing our complex relationship with the unknown.

Sunil Amrith, a Yale historian and MacArthur Genius Grant recipient, dives into how humanity has dramatically altered the Earth over the last 500 years. He discusses the complexities of the Green Revolution in India, balancing food production against environmental degradation. Amrith emphasizes the importance of cultural beliefs in shaping our relationship with nature and critiques the reliance on technology in environmentalism. He calls for empathy and local narratives to inspire collective action, asserting it's the artists, not just technocrats, who will lead us forward.