Quillette Podcast

Quillette
undefined
Aug 8, 2025 • 16min

Parsi: A Fiercely Contested Identity

Nev March, a celebrated novelist and historian from the Parsi community, engages listeners with captivating insights about the Parsi identity and its historical complexities. He explores landmark court cases that reshaped both the Indian legal landscape and the Parsi community's identity. March also highlights the cultural contributions of Parsi women and the challenges they face today. With discussions on race, religion, and belonging, he reveals how the Parsi legacy has significantly influenced Indian culture while navigating the pressures of modernity.
undefined
Jul 31, 2025 • 37min

How LGB Became Estranged from T

Adam Zivo, a Canadian gay activist-turned-journalist, discusses the rift between LGB and T within the LGBTQ movement. He shares how the focus has shifted post-gay marriage, leaving many gay activists feeling sidelined. Zivo critiques the glamorization of historical figures from the Stonewall riots, emphasizing the need for accurate narratives. He navigates the tensions within LGBTQ activism, particularly the clash between diverse strategies and ideologies, while examining the evolution of trans identity amid societal pressures.
undefined
Jul 25, 2025 • 16min

War and the End of Empire

Phil Craig, a seasoned historian and filmmaker, discusses his book '1945: A Reckoning,' which delves into pivotal moments of World War II. He highlights the emotional connections of key figures like Sopas Chandra Bose and Angela Noblet, revealing how their personal experiences shaped larger historical events. The complexities of Indian independence and the contrasting strategies of its leaders are examined, offering insights into their legacies. Craig also addresses the challenges of truth in historical narratives, showcasing how dramatization can skew our understanding.
undefined
Jul 17, 2025 • 37min

When Entertainment Reporting Gets Political

In this engaging conversation, Ben Mulroney, a veteran entertainment journalist, shares insights from his impressive career spanning nearly two decades on E-Talk. He reflects on how ideological shifts have reshaped the entertainment industry and discusses the challenges of balancing personal identity in a politically charged environment. Mulroney also delves into the evolution of storytelling from television to radio, navigates the complexities of crime and empathy, and emphasizes the importance of transparency in media narratives.
undefined
5 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 17min

The First Journalists

Delve into the origins of literary journalism during Enlightenment London, where class and gender shaped public discourse. Discover the often-overlooked contributions of women journalists in the 18th century and the evolving landscape of academic publishing. Learn about the impact of the Licensing Act on censorship and how it fueled a boom in periodicals. Explore this golden age of printing and draw fascinating parallels between historical publications and today’s digital platforms.
undefined
12 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 31min

Social Work Without Stereotypes

Nafees Alam, an Associate Professor of Social Work at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, dives into the political pressures shaping social work. He emphasizes the need for viewpoint diversity and constructive disagreement in the field. Alam discusses the evolving role of social workers in sports, contrasting them with psychologists and critiquing demographic stereotypes. He also highlights the complexities of child welfare and urges for a more inclusive understanding of ideological perspectives within social work.
undefined
Jun 27, 2025 • 17min

Science vs Māori Knowledge

Professor Kendall Clements from the University of Auckland discusses the tension between traditional Māori knowledge and scientific principles. He argues that merging the two dilutes both disciplines. The conversation highlights the challenges Māori students face in science education and critiques the perception of science as colonial. Clements delves into mātauranga Māori, exploring its holistic nature that blends empirical and spiritual elements. Understanding these differences is crucial for appreciating Māori culture's unique perspective on knowledge.
undefined
12 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 37min

The Wars Before the War

In this engaging discussion, Jonathan Spyer, a British Israeli analyst and director of research at the Middle East Forum, delves into Israel's military strategies and the unfolding tensions with Iran. He explains how Israel strategically confronted threats in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. Spyer explores the shift from conventional warfare to asymmetric tactics. The conversation extends to the geopolitical dynamics with the Houthis in Yemen and the implications of military strikes on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, highlighting the complexities of regional security.
undefined
Jun 13, 2025 • 16min

The Catastrophe Hour

Writer Meghan Daum discusses her new essay collection, diving into the pervasive gloom of modern life. She shares personal reflections on aging, cultural relevance, and the bittersweet nostalgia of Generation X. The conversation touches on the challenges of dating after 50, blending humor with deeper insights. Daum also explores the shift in storytelling, highlighting the move from traditional publishing to personal narratives in the digital age. Her journey reveals how both writing and life evolve with time.
undefined
Jun 4, 2025 • 28min

Enforced Ideological Conformity Among British Artists

Rosie Kay, a British dancer and choreographer and co-founder of Freedom in the Arts, discusses the challenges artists face amid increasing ideological conformity. She highlights the risks associated with expressing honest views on women's rights and the broader societal implications for creative expression. Kay shares her personal journey of resilience against cancellation and the impact of shifting gender ideologies within the dance community. The conversation reveals the urgent need for artistic freedom and the threats posed by self-censorship in today's arts landscape.

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app