How To Academy Podcast

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.

Serhii Plokhy, a Harvard professor and expert in nuclear technology, discusses the extraordinary courage of Ukrainian workers trapped at Chernobyl during the Russian occupation. He shares gripping stories of their critical decisions that averted further nuclear disaster amid chaos. Plokhy draws parallels between the current conflict and the original Chernobyl tragedy, exposing global unpreparedness for nuclear crises. His insights highlight the urgent need for better nuclear safety measures and the human resilience that shines through in dire circumstances.

Russ Buettner and Susanne Craig, Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporters from the New York Times, expose the truths behind Donald Trump's financial narrative. They discuss how his image as a self-made billionaire is rooted in deception and inherited wealth. Insights reveal his troubled upbringing and the influence of his father on his approach to success. The duo also examines the psychological elements of Trumpism and how past financial practices shape his political legacy. Their ongoing commitment to uncovering Trump's story lends urgency to these revelations.

Bessel van der Kolk, a leading psychiatrist and author of "The Body Keeps the Score," dives into the complex world of trauma and its impact on both body and mind. He discusses how traditional psychiatric treatments often fall short, advocating for innovative approaches like theater therapy and body awareness. The conversation highlights the vital connection between our relationships and healing, the significance of understanding trauma's effects on the nervous system, and the potential of new therapies such as EMDR and psychedelics to transform recovery.