How To Academy Podcast

Philippa Gregory, a bestselling historical novelist and Tudor historian, delves into the life of Jane Boleyn, revealing her not as a schemer but as a survivor amidst Henry VIII’s tyranny. She discusses how Victorian biases distorted Jane's reputation and explores the silences in history that fiction can fill. Gregory suggests Jane may have acted as a spy for Thomas Cromwell and highlights the importance of women's roles at court in managing power dynamics. Ultimately, she warns against the dangers of concentrated power in today’s politics, drawing parallels from Tudor history.

Ray Nayler, a diplomat-turned-novelist known for his thought-provoking works like Where the Axe is Buried, discusses the intricate connections between dystopia and real-world scenarios. He explores the rise of authoritarianism and the impact of technology, drawing parallels between China’s social credit system and Russia. Nayler emphasizes the cathartic nature of tragedy in literature and the importance of collective activism. His insights into the fear experienced by authoritarian leaders and the potential vulnerabilities of democracy provide a captivating look at current global challenges.

Dr. Kerry Burnight, a gerontologist and author of JoySpan, explores a revolutionary perspective on aging by introducing the concept of 'joyspan.' She explains how joy differs from fleeting happiness and highlights the damaging effects of societal ageism. Kerry shares four essential practices for enhancing our joyspan: connection, growth, adaptability, and giving. With practical tips on how to embrace social ties, balance enjoyment with health, and appreciate the aging process, she's on a mission to help us redefine vitality in our later years.

Yuval Noah Harari, a renowned historian and bestselling author known for works like Sapiens, discusses pressing global issues with Ritula Shah. They delve into how nonstop algorithms transform society, the fragility of democracy amidst political turmoil, and the rise of tribalism over ideology. Harari challenges us to consider the consequences of AI on trust and communication and advocates for regulating tech to protect public discourse. He urges reconnecting with our biological roots as a foundation to unite humanity in an increasingly digital world.

Join Adam Aleksic, a Harvard-trained linguist and content creator, as he unveils how the internet reshapes language. He explores fascinating topics like how social media censorship gives rise to euphemisms, the quirky terms 'tradwife' and 'delulu', and how algorithms influence speech and identity. Aleksic discusses the evolution of accents in online culture, the viral spread of memes, and how humor accelerates language adoption. Dive into the complexities of modern communication and discover the cultural implications behind today's evolving lexicon.

Award-winning nature writer Robert Macfarlane teams up with Elif Shafak, a novelist and activist, to delve into the fascinating connection between rivers and humanity. They explore ancient tales like the Epic of Gilgamesh and the importance of rivers in retaining memory. The duo discusses shifting baselines, the urgent need for better water stewardship, and how stories can revive buried histories. With humor and depth, they advocate for hope over despair while emphasizing daily actions to connect with and protect our vital waterways.

Corinne Low, a business economist at the Wharton School and author of Feminomics, dives into the data that shapes women's lives. She redefines happiness as utility, guiding listeners on maximizing it through careful decision-making. Low emphasizes the need for men to step up at home, addresses societal expectations, and discusses reproductive capital as an asset. With practical advice on negotiation, prioritizing leisure, and countering social media pressures, she empowers women to align choices with their true values.

Mark Kermode, a renowned film critic and co-author of the book Surround Sound, dives deep into the world of movie music. He shares how soundtracks can elevate storytelling, using examples from films like Angel Heart and Under the Skin. Kermode offers unique insights on live scoring techniques and the transformative power of acoustics in film. His approach encourages listeners to appreciate film music not just as background noise, but as a vital part of cinematic experience, illuminating how scores shape our emotional journey.

Kate Wilson, an author and former environmental activist, shares her gripping story of being unknowingly targeted by an undercover police officer. She delves into her intimate relationship with 'Mark,' a fictional persona, and the shock of discovering his true identity. Kate discusses her legal battle against police misconduct, exposing a culture of state surveillance and manipulation. Through her memories and experiences, she highlights the importance of protest and the profound impact of state abuses on innocent lives.

Jay Heinrichs, a New York Times bestselling author and rhetoric expert, dives into the transformative power of classical rhetoric for self-improvement. He discusses how to turn rhetoric inward, aligning personal desires with one's true self and shifting focus from past regrets to future choices. Heinrichs shares practical tools for overcoming distractions, like social media, and reframing failures as growth opportunities. With insights from Aristotle, he emphasizes authenticity, empathy, and the importance of compassionate self-talk in the journey toward becoming your best self.