How To Academy Podcast

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.

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.