Wild with Sarah Wilson

Thomas Mayo, a maritime union worker and official advocate for the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, joins Sarah Wilson to discuss the upcoming referendum. They cover the need for constitutional change, the misconceptions around the Voice to Parliament, and the significance of the Uluru Statement. Mayo clarifies that the Voice advises, does not veto laws, and grants no additional rights. The chapter also explores the challenges faced by Indigenous men and the importance of understanding Indigenous systems and systemic change.

Angela Saini, a misinformation expert and leading UK Science Journalist + Author, discusses the theme of her latest book, 'The Patriarchs: How Men Came to Rule.' The podcast challenges the assumption of patriarchal societies always existing and explores the existence of matriarchies and gender fluidity. It delves into historical evidence disproving male dominance and examines the origins of gender oppression through archaeological findings. The podcast also explores the historical context of gender equality and women's roles in society, comparing the US and Soviet Union. It emphasizes the fragility of patriarchy and the fight for gender equality, challenging deep-rooted customs and beliefs.

Neuroscientist Ethan Kross talks about taming head chatter. They discuss techniques such as talking to ourselves in the second and third person, temporal distancing, and going for a hike. They also explore the impact of rumination on anxiety and depression, effective conversations, strategies for managing chatter, and the benefits of nature and perspective.

Bo Seo, world champion debater and author, discusses the problem of polarization and the need for more constructive disagreement. He shares tips on making killer points, combatting bullshitters, and arguing with partners. They explore when to engage in disputes and the value of embracing disagreement. Strategies for navigating disagreements in relationships are also discussed. The importance of framing disagreements and persuasive arguments is highlighted.

Marcus Buckingham, British pop trend researcher and New York Times bestselling author, discusses the paradox of female unhappiness and the concept of 'tilting' towards joy and love. They explore the declining happiness levels among women, the importance of identifying one's passions, and choosing activities that bring fulfillment. They also discuss the power of personalized experiences and reframing competing responsibilities to bring more energy and joy into life.

Stephen Jenkinson, expert in dying and Harvard-trained theologian, challenges societal misconceptions about aging and responsibility. He explores our culture's avoidance of death and reflects on his experiences counseling people on death. The podcast delves into the absence of enlightenment in the final moments of life and emphasizes the importance of embracing ordinary aspects of life. The importance of leading with our humanity and persevering in difficult times is also discussed. Overall, the podcast offers profound insights on wisdom, elderhood, and starting at ordinary.

Douglas Rushkoff, cyberpunk OG, discusses the mindset of tech billionaires and their obsession with luxury bunkers. He offers solutions rooted in returning to humanity, including bringing back the Sabbath and embracing de-growth economics. The podcast explores the lack of empathy among billionaires and the need for them to reconnect with humanity and address environmental issues. It also delves into the fear and uncertainty driving billionaire preppers.

Dr Michael E Mann, climate scientist and El Niño expert, discusses the role of Russian interference in the Australian carbon pricing fight and the imminent El Niño event. They also explore the tactics used in the new climate war, including conspiracy theories, and emphasize the importance of remaining hopeful and vigilant in the battle against climate change denialism.

Margaret Atwood, bestselling author of dystopian fiction, discusses her new project Practical Utopia and the importance of finding solutions to global problems. They explore the impact of economic conditions on women, the fascination of uncertainty, creating sustainable solutions, challenging societal expectations, and the issues with Twitter. They also discuss alternative platforms and express admiration for each other.

Helen Lewis (internet famous for her GQ interview with Jordan Peterson, pop culture expert) is a British journalist, BBC broadcaster and currently a staff writer for Atlantic magazine. Her work covers the rise of TikTok tics in teenagers, Harry-and-Meghan, Andrew Tate, the absurdities of US and UK politics…you know, all the chunky bits of life in 2023. She also wrote the best bestseller Difficult Women, A History of Feminism in 11 Fights and just released the BBC podcast series The New Gurus. However, Helen is probably best known for her 2018 GQ interview with Jordan Peterson, the controversial Canadian psychologist and messiah of the manosphere (the video version has been viewed 60 million times).My conversation with Helen was fast and intense and we cover the IDW, Andrew Tate (she declined an invitation to debate him), tactics for arguing with Galaxy Brains and why we don’t use pronouns in our bios. This episode is extra-long because Helen’s riff is that good.**BONUS ** Join Helen and I over at my Substack, (this is precious) as we talk through our tips for remaining sane amid the noise – a productivity tip, a writing tip, two podcasts, two Substack follows, the book to read and the journalist to follow. Available only on Substack, Friday 3rd March.Subscribe to Helen’s Substack The Bluestocking – it's a good place to follow her writing and projectsThe New Gurus series can be downloaded here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.