Jordan Peterson, a controversial psychologist and author known for his views on masculinity, dives into the crisis facing young men today. He discusses the importance of responsibility and community, linking traditional values of manhood to modern challenges. The conversation also touches on personality traits that define successful entrepreneurs and the impact of social media on masculinity. Additionally, Peterson reflects on identity in today's society, highlighting a rising interest in religious affiliation among young men as a search for meaning.

Xavier Greenwood’s childhood memories are dominated by a speech impediment and a thick accent. But was it all in his head?To find out more about Tortoise:Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsSubscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentBecome a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Bowie's last months were spent fulfilling one final ambition: staging a musical based around his songs. They say you shouldn’t meet your heroes. Zelda Perkins not only met hers, she produced the musical he staged in his dying daysReporter: Zelda PerkinsArtwork: Emma O'NeilSound design: Dominic DelargyExecutive Producer: Matt RussellTo find out more about Tortoise:Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalistsSubscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentBecome a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dive into the intriguing world of biohacking as tech entrepreneurs seek to reverse aging in a libertarian haven. Discover the extreme lengths some will go, like blood transfusions from younger donors, to achieve immortality. The risks of gene therapy in unregulated zones raise ethical questions about the future of biotechnology. With disillusionment in conventional science, innovators navigate the controversial landscape of self-experimentation, opening a dialogue on the moral implications of profit-driven health advancements.

Kianush Sanjuri, an Iranian dissident and activist, shares his 25-year struggle against the Islamic regime, highlighting the immense courage required to resist oppression. Roya Borumand, who fights human rights abuses, sheds light on Iran’s ruthless intelligence tactics and the psychological warfare employed in interrogations. The conversation unveils the harrowing realities of prison life, including physical and psychological torture, while inspiring hope in the resilience of those who fight for freedom in Iran.

In June 2024, astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore faced an unexpected eight-month journey in space due to technical failures. The podcast dives into their personal struggles amid the backdrop of Boeing and NASA's challenges. Listeners hear gripping stories from the Columbia disaster and the evolving dynamics between SpaceX and Boeing. The emotional toll of isolation and the risks of future lunar missions are explored, revealing the psychological complexities of space travel and the resilience required to navigate these extraordinary circumstances.

Eugenia Kuyda’s app, Replika, aims to tackle loneliness with AI companions that promise unconditional love. This exploration raises ethical concerns, highlighted by a chilling incident involving a user and a plot against the Queen. Personal stories reveal how technology can both connect and complicate emotional ties, while ethical implications around privacy and user data come into question. The podcast debates the potential dangers of relying on AI as a solution for loneliness, urging a critical look at the responsibilities of tech developers.

Out on the high seas, Paul Watson became a hero and pariah of the environmental movement. Now he sits in a remote prison. How should we treat the radicals willing to go to extremes to protect the planet?Reported by: Basia Cummings and Xavier GreenwoodProduced by: Xavier GreenwoodSound design by: Hannah Varrall and Dominic DelargyEdited by: Gary Marshall and Matt RussellPodcast artwork by: Jon HillImage credit: Mirco Taliercio/laif/ Camera PressTo find out more about Tortoise:Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsSubscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentBecome a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The podcast dives into the tension-filled night of the presidential election at Mar-a-Lago, where Elon Musk's absence raised eyebrows. It explores Musk's shift from liberal to a powerhouse in Republican politics and his complex ties with Trump. The discussion highlights the fallout from Biden's exclusion of Musk from an electric vehicle summit, driven by Musk's anti-union stance. Listeners learn how Musk's evolving political ambitions and his tech empire's influence are reshaping interactions with government and the broader political landscape.

This podcast uncovers the stigma surrounding mental health at Catterick Garrison, the UK’s largest army base. It shares heartbreaking stories of soldiers facing systemic neglect, illustrating the urgent need for reform. Listeners hear about emotional struggles, the impact of excessive drinking, and the tragic consequences of inadequate support. Personal reflections on loss and remembrance reveal the profound effects of military life on families. Overall, it emphasizes the critical demand for compassionate mental health care within the armed forces.