Wild with Sarah Wilson

Will Storr, award-winning UK journalist and author, explores the concept of status games and their influence on human behavior. They discuss selfie culture, the role of status in shaping behavior, the connection between social class and health, and the paradox of high-status individuals. The guest also talks about the power of personal stories and the push-pull between individualism and belonging.

Tim Winton, renowned Australian writer and climate activist, discusses topics such as toxic masculinity, fossil fuel sponsorship of the arts, and the preservation of Western Australia's Ningaloo Reef. They explore the influence of Australia's colonial past and capitalist fixation on its progression. The podcast also touches on the need to protect sacred places and highlights the ongoing fight to conserve Ningaloo Reef.

Ingrid Newkirk (founder of PETA, radical stuntwoman) is one of the most controversial – and wild - humans on the planet. After founding People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) in 1980 she campaigned to change animal cruelty laws, halted cosmetic and crash testing on animals and has largely rid the world of fur fashion.She didn’t take the mild, collaborative route, though. Ingrid has hung naked among pigs’ carcasses in London’s Smithfield market, famously raided Vogue HQ to protest their use of fur, along with a KKK meeting to stop the shooting of pigeons. Ingrid is now 74, her hobbies include Formula One racing (Michael Schumacher is a mate) and she is cited as a “hero” to countless celebrities, including Bill Maher (on her board) and Joaquin Phoenix (bought the film rights to her book Free the Animals). Ingrid reached out to me to chat on Wild. I’m not vegan and I wear wool. Our chat was both robustly challenging and moving.You can buy the 30th Anniversary Edition of Free the Animals here and read more about PETA Australia here.Here’s that Australian perspective data I mention, outlined in The Conversation essay and here’s a rebuttal written by another academic, also published in The Conversation.If you need to know a bit more about me… head to my "about" pageFor more such conversations subscribe to my Substack newsletter, it’s where I interact the most!Get your copy of my book, This One Wild and Precious LifeLet’s connect on Instagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Silicon Valley futurist Genevieve Bell discusses the concerns about AI wiping out humanity, the need for a global pause in AI development, and how indigenous systems thinking can save us. The podcast explores cybernetics and its origins, the relationship between technology and imagination, and the importance of critically interrogating technologies. It also highlights the value of indigenous complexity theory and the ancient fish weir system as examples of alternative approaches to solving complex problems.

Psychologist Roy Baumeister discusses topics such as the psychology of human behavior, willpower, decision-making, decision fatigue, and the impact of technology on concentration and self-control. He also explores the influence of the industrial revolution on women's roles and sexual dynamics.

Thomas Mayo, a maritime union worker and official advocate for the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, joins Sarah Wilson to discuss the upcoming referendum. They cover the need for constitutional change, the misconceptions around the Voice to Parliament, and the significance of the Uluru Statement. Mayo clarifies that the Voice advises, does not veto laws, and grants no additional rights. The chapter also explores the challenges faced by Indigenous men and the importance of understanding Indigenous systems and systemic change.

Angela Saini, a misinformation expert and leading UK Science Journalist + Author, discusses the theme of her latest book, 'The Patriarchs: How Men Came to Rule.' The podcast challenges the assumption of patriarchal societies always existing and explores the existence of matriarchies and gender fluidity. It delves into historical evidence disproving male dominance and examines the origins of gender oppression through archaeological findings. The podcast also explores the historical context of gender equality and women's roles in society, comparing the US and Soviet Union. It emphasizes the fragility of patriarchy and the fight for gender equality, challenging deep-rooted customs and beliefs.

Neuroscientist Ethan Kross talks about taming head chatter. They discuss techniques such as talking to ourselves in the second and third person, temporal distancing, and going for a hike. They also explore the impact of rumination on anxiety and depression, effective conversations, strategies for managing chatter, and the benefits of nature and perspective.

Bo Seo, world champion debater and author, discusses the problem of polarization and the need for more constructive disagreement. He shares tips on making killer points, combatting bullshitters, and arguing with partners. They explore when to engage in disputes and the value of embracing disagreement. Strategies for navigating disagreements in relationships are also discussed. The importance of framing disagreements and persuasive arguments is highlighted.

Marcus Buckingham, British pop trend researcher and New York Times bestselling author, discusses the paradox of female unhappiness and the concept of 'tilting' towards joy and love. They explore the declining happiness levels among women, the importance of identifying one's passions, and choosing activities that bring fulfillment. They also discuss the power of personalized experiences and reframing competing responsibilities to bring more energy and joy into life.