Throughline

Exploring the worst year in history - 536 AD, with catastrophic events like a supervolcano, plague, and famine. Reflecting on global crises and historical parallels. Listening to hymns for the dead from Axum, raising questions about suffering in different eras.

Delving into the origins of the Arab Spring, narrating personal experiences in Tunisia and Egypt, and exploring the resilience against oppressive regimes. The podcast reflects on the demand for democracy, the challenges faced by activists, and the enduring quest for better governance in the region.

Exploring the rise of right-wing politics in Israel, the podcast delves into the religious frameworks shaping national identity, resistance to a two-state solution, and the impact of leaders like Benjamin Netanyahu. From the assassination of Yitzak Rabin to the growth of extremist views, the podcast uncovers the evolution of Israel's conservative faction amidst ongoing conflicts with Palestinians.

Explore the history and evolution of public defenders in the US, from Clara Foltz's advocacy to the landmark Gideon vs. Wayne Wright case. Uncover the challenges faced by the overloaded and underfunded public defense system, and the impact of racial biases and lack of adequate representation. Reflect on the need for reevaluation and solutions to improve the quality of legal representation for all.

Exploring the origins and cultural impact of house music, from its roots in Chicago's underground clubs to its global influence on electronic dance music. The podcast dives into the Black cultural resistance that shaped the genre, highlighting key figures like Frankie Knuckles and the transformation of EDM from underground raves to mainstream success.

The podcast explores the struggles of modern dating, the crisis of connection in society, and the origins of romanticism. It discusses the impact of romantic ideals portrayed in media, the influence of films on love, and the democratization of excess in online dating. Personal experiences with dating apps are shared, highlighting both the positive and negative aspects. The chapter also acknowledges listeners' responses, features an interview, and includes sponsorship messages.

Delving into the science and politics of smell, this podcast explores the significance of scent in evoking memories and shaping society. It discusses the personal connection to smells, the impact of losing the sense of smell due to COVID-19, the science behind our sense of smell, unraveling the mysteries of smell, and the power of smell in shaping society and memories. It also explores the connection between scent and emotions, the role of smell in judicial cases, and the evocative nature of scent memories.

James Baldwin, an insightful commentator on Black identity and American democracy, discusses confronting lies, personal experiences vs systemic issues, the Black Power Movement, loneliness, and the importance of finding communities and love in the podcast.

Annie Bain, the widow of Grenada's Minister of Housing, shares her search for answers about the assassination of Prime Minister Maurice Bishop. Witnesses recount chilling details, a soldier describes a horrific incident at a fort, and a former investigator digs for answers but finds an empty burial site. Annie Bain is convinced that someone knows what happened.

The podcast explores the life of Elie Metchnikoff, a scientist who dedicated his life to finding a cure for aging. It covers his experiments on animals, his belief in the potential of yogurt to prolong life, and his quest to understand aging. The episode also discusses the historical desire for immortality and the modern obsession with looking younger. It concludes with a discussion on the desire to prolong lifespan and happiness.