How To Academy Podcast

Sam Conniff, a best-selling author known for his work on cultural change, joins neuroscience consultant Katherine Templar-Lewis to tackle the complexities of uncertainty. They discuss transforming fear into emotional regulation and explore practical biohacks for decision-making, like gratitude exercises and interoception. The duo examines how understanding bodily signals and cultivating metacognition can alleviate anxiety. With insights on connection and personal growth, they provide a toolkit for leveraging uncertainty as a path to resilience and innovation.

Global security expert Mark Galeotti delves into the pervasive nature of organized crime and its deep-rooted connection to our daily lives. He explains how criminal organizations are often intertwined with legitimate institutions, making crime a fundamental aspect of society. Galeotti discusses the moral ambiguities surrounding criminality, the evolution of cybercrime, and how state weaknesses can empower gangs. He also explores the surprising ways criminals can influence politics and culture, revealing the complex interplay between crime and governance.

Paul Davies, a theoretical physicist, cosmologist, and astrobiologist, explores the second quantum revolution and its implications. He discusses why quantum theory remains puzzling despite its success, contrasting practical applications with unresolved foundational issues. Davies delves into wave-particle duality, entanglement, and how quantum fluctuations influenced the universe's early structure. He even speculates on the potential of quantum AI and its impact on self-identity and biology, advocating for rigorous mathematics to combat pseudoscientific interpretations.

Rebecca F. Kuang, an award-winning novelist known for works like Babel and Yellowface, delves into her latest novel, Katabasis. She discusses the dual meanings of katabasis—both a descent into the underworld and a metaphor for personal struggles, spurred by her own traumatic experiences. Kuang reflects on the burdens of immortality, the challenges of academic freedom, and the tension between artistic honesty and public scrutiny. With a rich tapestry of literary influences, she shares insights on writing, grief, and the importance of embracing life's ephemerality.

In a gripping discussion, filmmaker Andrew Jarecki and documentary collaborator Charlotte Kaufman share their harrowing experiences inside Alabama's prison system. They delve into the shocking realities faced by inmates, including the abuse and deaths like that of Stephen Davis. The duo reveals how prisoners used contraband phones to document their lives and organize protests, advocating for change in a corrupt environment. They explore parallels between U.S. and U.K. prison challenges, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability and reform.

Ingrid Clayton, a clinical psychologist and author of 'Fawning,' delves into the complexities of fawning as a trauma response. She redefines people-pleasing not as a moral failing but a survival strategy shaped by relational trauma. Ingrid shares insights on how this behavior can be habitual, especially for marginalized groups, and discusses the impact of gender conditioning. With practical tools for reclaiming one's self, she emphasizes the importance of authenticity and the ongoing journey of unfawning, aiming for richer relationships and self-discovery.

Karl Ove Knausgaard, the acclaimed Norwegian novelist known for his impactful autobiographical series, explores the complexities of art and fame. He discusses creating an unempathetic protagonist in his new novel, The School of Night, and the choices behind setting it in 1980s Deptford. Knausgaard reflects on the Faustian pacts artists make for success, revealing his own struggles with fame and loss of privacy. With wit and depth, he shares insights on the writing process and the influences that shape his compelling narratives.

Cultural critic and author John Higgs dives into the enigmatic world of David Lynch, exploring the essence of what makes his films uniquely 'Lynchian.' He discusses why some find Lynch's work perplexing and how his films provoke genuine emotional responses. Higgs contrasts Lynch’s approachable persona with his dark, avant-garde artistry. From transcendent meditation's influence to the misunderstood 'Fire Walk With Me,' Higgs reveals Lynch's complex narrative style and the artistic depth that keeps audiences captivated.

Neuroscientist Nicholas Wright, who advises the Pentagon and explores the brain's role in conflict, shares fascinating insights with war correspondent David Patrikarakos. Wright explains that our brains are hardwired for war and conflicts stem from mechanisms shaped by evolution. He discusses how perception and social identity can generate conflict, the impact of technology on warfare, and the ways fear influences decision-making. Wright emphasizes that understanding our neurobiology can help reduce conflicts and shape better leaders.

Joe Hill, acclaimed author and son of Stephen King, dives into the craft of storytelling, discussing his latest novel, King Sorrow. He explains why horror is important for catharsis and how it mirrors real-life threats. Hill shares insights on creating lovable yet hateable characters and the importance of witty banter. He reflects on his literary upbringing and reveals how his family has influenced his writing. Expect intriguing discussions on the art of genre blending and the unique role of modern horror in today’s society.