Wild with Sarah Wilson
Sarah Wilson
Sarah Wilson chats wild ideas for a fired up life.The multi-New York Times bestselling author, activist, minimalist and former news journalist who founded the global phenomenon ‘I Quit Sugar’ travelled the world for 10 years (living out of one bag) to explore the freshest ways to live fully…and to save this one wild and precious life we have together.She riffs with philosophers, creatives, poets, scientists (and at least one nun!) on the Big Questions that haunt us. What goes through the mind of a prisoner on death row? How does Sia invent her art? Will we die from climate change and can our rage save us? Is being Australian a mental health crisis? Join Sarah as she wrestles a path to the answers… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 29, 2024 • 29min
AMA: A post on how I write a book about collapse on Substack
Listeners dive into the host's writing process for a serialized book on societal collapse, exploring the creative journey shaped by audience feedback. The emotional weight of reflecting on collapse sparks discussions about personal accountability and societal responsibility. Insights reveal how embracing mortality can ease anxiety and foster deeper connections. The host invites participation for future interactive sessions while reflecting on the unique calm found in confronting fears, encouraging a community dialogue on these pressing themes.
9 snips
Oct 22, 2024 • 58min
JOEL PEARSON: Do we have free will? Is anything our fault?
Joel Pearson, a neuroscientist and cognitive expert from the University of New South Wales, explores the intriguing question of whether free will is merely an illusion. He delves into the implications of AI and social media on our choices, highlighting the risks to personal agency. The conversation also touches on the synchronization in nature, like murmurations, and how compassion can reshape our understanding of responsibility. Ultimately, Pearson challenges us to reconsider our beliefs about autonomy and the impact of external forces on our decision-making.
Oct 15, 2024 • 1h 5min
CHRISTIANA FIGUERES: On “stubborn optimism”
Christiana Figueres, a former Costa Rican diplomat and pivotal figure in the Paris Agreement, discusses the paradox of hope amidst climate despair. She debates the viability of global climate goals and emphasizes the urgent need for ambitious action against rising emissions. The conversation explores 'stubborn optimism,' the complexities of renewable energy transition, and the emotional toll of climate activism. Ultimately, Figueres argues that love is the driving force that keeps people committed to the fight for a sustainable future.
36 snips
Oct 8, 2024 • 1h 12min
ELIZABETH OLDFIELD X ME: How to be Fully Alive in a collapsing world
In this insightful conversation, Elizabeth Oldfield, a British coach, author, and broadcaster, explores themes of resilience and spirituality. She reflects on accessing the sacred amid a turbulent world and the moral loneliness many face today. Together, they navigate grief related to climate change, the transformative power of community, and the journey of women in their 40s seeking purpose. Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of embracing discomfort for deeper connections and how love can guide us through life's challenges.
Oct 3, 2024 • 24min
BONUS EP: Nika Kovač the activist from the Slovenian gondola
Nika Kovač is a controversial Slovenian activist and Obama scholar, known for her dynamic role as the founding director of The Research Institute of 8th March. In this lively conversation, she discusses her successful campaigns against water privatization and political media influence. Nika reveals her ambitious goal for free and accessible abortion throughout the EU, sparked by the Roe v. Wade overturn. She emphasizes the importance of collective action and community support in advocating for reproductive rights, inspiring listeners to engage in the movement.
38 snips
Sep 17, 2024 • 1h 16min
IAIN MCGILCHRIST: Our “wretchedness” is a left-brain issue
Dr. Iain McGilchrist, a renowned neuroscientist and psychiatrist, discusses the significant differences between our brain hemispheres. He argues that a left-brain dominance leads to societal wretchedness, emphasizing the need to embrace the right-brain's creative and holistic perspectives. The conversation highlights how our civilization's initial creativity and happiness have diminished, advocating for a return to interconnectedness and deeper meaning in life. Iain's insights reveal how we must balance rationality with intuition to navigate contemporary challenges.
Sep 10, 2024 • 1h 18min
COREY BRADSHAW: Are humans going extinct? (And how soon?)
Corey Bradshaw, a global ecologist and author, reveals that humanity is on the brink of a mass extinction event. He discusses the paradox of overpopulation versus declining birth rates and their implications for resources and wildlife. With Australia facing the highest mammal extinction rate, he highlights the impact of non-native predators and the urgent need for responsible family planning. Bradshaw emphasizes the importance of honest conversations about climate change, resilience, and fostering a hopeful community for future generations.
Sep 5, 2024 • 28min
AMA: How do I explain collapse to someone?*
The conversation navigates the intricate web of contemporary crises, highlighting how societal collapse is fundamentally different from past events. Listeners learn strategies for discussing these topics with skeptical friends, emphasizing the importance of supportive dialogues. The discussion critiques overly optimistic views of progress and examines the interconnectedness of issues like climate change and political instability. It also touches on growing distrust in society and explores the potential for hopeful change amidst these challenges.
Sep 3, 2024 • 1h 10min
NICK BRYANT: What has happened to America?
Nick Bryant, a BBC Washington correspondent and author, dives deep into America's societal intricacies, having spent decades reporting on its historical and political upheavals. In this conversation, he tackles the troubling legacy of violence and racism in America, highlighting the impact of events like the Trump presidency and school shootings. Bryant also critiques gun culture, the Second Amendment, and the role of media narratives. With the upcoming election looming, he reflects on anxiety within the public, the influence of foreign powers, and the unraveling of American exceptionalism.
11 snips
Aug 27, 2024 • 1h 13min
CLIVE HAMILTON: CONTENTIOUS CLIMATE COLLAPSE TRUTH - how the “Electrify Everything” message + private schools could be our downfall if we don’t change course
Clive Hamilton, a prominent climate activist and professor at Charles Sturt University, argues that traditional climate mitigation strategies are now unrealistic. He advocates for focusing on survival instead. The conversation dives into the flaws of the 'electrify everything' movement, the implications of private schooling on class inequality, and the necessity for grassroots efforts in climate adaptation. Clive highlights Australia's role in the climate crisis and the importance of integrating Indigenous knowledge to enhance disaster preparedness.
