The Study Hall Podcast

Francis Zierer is the host and editor of Creator Spotlight, a podcast and newsletter that showcases how various writers, YouTubers, and podcasters monetize their online content. In this conversation with host Daniel Spielberger, Francis shares tips on how writers can market themselves in the creator economy. He also discusses the dynamic of running an independent project in a crowded field and how writers can embrace the creator economy.  For more information about Creator Spotlight: https://www.creatorspotlight.com/ For more information about Study Hall: https://studyhall.xyz/ Music by KT The Terrible  

Johanna Fateman, co-chief art critic at Cultured Magazine, and John Vincler, also a co-chief critic, dive into the revitalization of art criticism. They discuss the mission of The Critics' Table to promote fair compensation and concise reviews. The duo emphasizes the importance of engaging with underrepresented artists and crafting meaningful critiques that resonate with readers. They also reflect on the balance between critical engagement and generosity, and the need for community in art criticism, encouraging new voices to share their passion.

  In a chat with host Daniel Spielberger, Sarah Schulman discussed her new book “The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity.” Drawing from culture industry case studies and Schulman’s experience as an activist, the book explores how artists and writers can show solidarity with marginalized groups. Schulman is an award-winning writer, novelist, and activist.  For more information about “The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity”: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/771411/the-fantasy-and-necessity-of-solidarity-by-sarah-schulman/   For more information about Study Hall: www.studyhall.xyz   Music by KT The Terrible

Sarah Aziza discusses her memoir "The Hollow Half: A Memoir of Bodies and Borders." Aziza’s writing has been published in The New Yorker, The Washington Post, The Baffler, and Jewish Currents. In her memoir, Aziza traces her family’s history of being displaced from Palestine and explores the dynamic of historic erasure. In this conversation with Daniel Spielberger, Aziza discusses the process of writing and researching her memoir. She also reflects on her experience as a Palestinian American writer using her platform to raise awareness of Israel’s war on Gaza.    More information on The Hollow Half: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-hollow-half-sarah-aziza/21691339?ean=9781646222438&next=t&affiliate=39   For more information about Study Hall: https://studyhall.xyz/   Music by KT The Terrible 

Adam Popescu, a seasoned journalist with work featured in top-tier outlets like The Washington Post and The New York Times, dives into the intriguing trade of Cordyceps fungi in Nepal. He shares valuable insights on pitching compelling narratives and the ethical responsibilities of journalists. Popescu also discusses his report on genetic advancements, including the implications of crafting a woolly mouse. His exploration highlights the intersections of culture, consumerism, and the complexities of ethical journalism in today's climate.

We were joined by Evette Dionne, the co-founder of The Flytrap and Executive Editor of Yes!. She chatted about the importance of feminist blogging, The Flytrap’s editorial philosophy, and Yes! Media’s approach to covering activism. Support Yes! : https://www.yesmagazine.org/?form=PowerOf30 Subscribe to The Flytrap: https://theflytrap.beehiiv.com/ Find out more about Study Hall: https://studyhall.xyz/ Music by KT The Terrible

Daniel chatted with Vittoria Elliott, a reporter at WIRED, about her recent coverage of DOGE, Elon Musk, and the Trump administration. She shared what she learned about reporting on Musk's attack on federal bureaucracy and how her background in startups informs her coverage.  Read Vittoria Elliott’s work: https://www.wired.com/author/vittoria-elliott/ Find out more about Study Hall: Studyhall.xyz.   Music by KT The Terrible   

Daniel chatted with Allegra Rosenberg, an editor and journalist who recently published a very in-depth feature for Atavist Magazine about an Antarctic love story between two British sailors in the early 1910s. Rosenberg shared her experience researching, writing, and editing this feature. Read Allegra’s feature here: https://magazine.atavist.com/from-antarctica-with-love-terra-nova-scott-south-pole-pennell-atkinson/ Check out more of her work: https://allegrarosenberg.com/ Her sources/bibliography: https://allegrarosenberg.com/polar/2025/02/28/pennell-and-atkinson-in-the-atavist-magazine/ Pennell's full diary uploaded: https://collection.canterburymuseum.com/objects/771153/diary-harry-pennell-1909-13 More info about Study Hall: studyhall.xyz. Music by KT The Terrible  

Daniel chatted with Anna Merlan, a senior reporter at Mother Jones. Merlan shared her experience covering the far-right media ecosystem, disinformation, and RFK JR.. She discussed why she believes Trump has used a “new state media” to spread his message. Follow Anna Merlan on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/annamerlan.bsky.social   Find our more about Study Hall: studyhall.xyz   Music by KT The Terrible

In a chat with host Daniel Spielberger, Katelyn Burns, a columnist at MSNBC and Xtra, discussed her coverage of President Trump’s anti-trans policies, how legacy media overlooks trans perspectives, and the expanding role of independent media. Burns is also the co-host of the podcast Cancel Me, Daddy and co-founder of The Flytrap.    Subscribe to her Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/katelynburns/posts   Find out more about Study Hall: https://studyhall.xyz/   Music by KT the Terrible