The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling

On October 21, 2023, beloved Detroit community leader Samantha Woll was found brutally stabbed to death outside her home—two weeks to the day after the October 7 attacks on Israel. It looks like an open-and-shut case—a hate crime. But swiftly the police rule that out. Instead they eventually find themselves with two unrelated suspects. When they charge one with murder, the case takes a turn that raises questions about antisemitism, race, and justice in America. Hosted by The Free Press’s Frannie Block, this podcast features exclusive interviews and explores the remarkable, too-short life of Samantha, and the impact she had. And Spiral tells the bizarre twists and turns of one of Detroit’s most haunting recent crimes. Available wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a thought-provoking dialogue, J.K. Rowling, the bestselling author behind the Harry Potter series, defends her controversial views on gender and free speech, emphasizing the importance of discernment in today's polarized climate. Stacey Schiff, a Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer, provides historical insight into witch trials, highlighting parallels with modern social media dynamics. They tackle the complexities of safety in unisex spaces, the medicalization of youth, and the erosion of trust in institutions, all while affirming the need for respectful dialogue amidst disagreement.

Natalie Wynn, known as ContraPoints, is a prominent YouTuber and essayist focusing on politics and culture. In this discussion, Natalie critiques J.K. Rowling's indirect bigotry and the implications of framing doubts about transgender issues as neutral questions. She shares her journey through online harassment and community backlash, emphasizing the importance of validating trans lives. Noah, a 17-year-old trans man, adds his perspective, recounting his transition timeline and how Rowling's rhetoric affects trans youth. Both urge empathy over vilification in discourse.

J.K. Rowling, the best-selling author behind the Harry Potter series, dives deep into her controversial views on sex and gender. She shares her motivations for speaking out, including support for trans rights activists like Maya Forstater. The conversation navigates her reactions to backlash from fans, the emotional toll of online abuse, and the implications for free speech in academia. Rowling explains her perspectives on the nuances of public criticism versus harassment, aiming to illuminate the challenges faced by women in these heated debates.

Helen Lewis, a journalist from The Atlantic, and Michelle Goldberg, a columnist, dive into the complexities of feminism and trans rights. They discuss the term 'TERF,' its polarizing nature, and J.K. Rowling’s concerns about the silencing of women. The duo explores tensions between feminist ideals and the trans rights movement, emphasizing the considerations around women's spaces and the implications of self-identification policies. They also touch on the rise in youth referrals for gender transitions and the urgent need for research and dialogue in these heated conversations.

J.K. Rowling, the best-selling author of the Harry Potter series, delves into the evolution of online fandom. She reflects on her early engagement with fans and the emergence of communities around her work. The conversation shifts to the darker side of online interactions, including bullying and the rise of cancel culture. Rowling discusses how Harry Potter served as a refuge for marginalized readers and shares concerns about today’s internet culture, authoritarianism, and the erosion of empathy in public discourse.

As "Harry Potter" becomes an international phenomenon, it coincides with the culture wars of the 1990s. In the backlash from Christians across America, author J.K. Rowling is accused of mainstreaming witchcraft and poisoning children’s minds.Produced by Andy Mills, Matthew Boll, and Megan Phelps-Roper, with special thanks to Candace Mittel Kahn and Emily Yoffe.This show is proudly sponsored by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression. FIRE believes free speech makes free people. Learn more at thefire.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Megan Phelps-Roper writes a letter to J.K. Rowling—and receives a surprising invitation in reply: the opportunity for an intimate conversation in Rowling’s Scottish home.Produced by Andy Mills, Matthew Boll, and Megan Phelps-Roper, with special thanks to Candace Mittel Kahn and Emily Yoffe.This show is proudly sponsored by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression. FIRE believes free speech makes free people. Learn more at thefire.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling premieres Tuesday, February 21, 2023.Learn moreRead an essay by host Megan Phelps-Roper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices