Throughline

Thom Yorke, the iconic lead singer of Radiohead, joins forces with Stanley Donwood, the band's visual artist known for memorable album covers. They discuss the challenging cultural landscape at the turn of the millennium, highlighting the anxieties leading to the release of 'Kid A' and 'Amnesiac.' Yorke reflects on the pressure of evolving as an artist while maintaining authenticity. Donwood shares insights into his artwork's haunting resonance with the music, both capturing a world in turmoil and bridging emotional connections with listeners.

The Arab Spring erupted eleven years ago when a wave of "pro-democracy" protests spread throughout the Middle East and North Africa. The effects of the uprisings reverberated around the world as regimes fell in some countries, and civil war began in others. This week, we remember the years leading up to the Arab Spring, and its lasting impact on three people who lived through it.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

Join Anya Steinberg, an intern and the creator behind "He's Just 23 Chromosomes," and Victor Yvellez, a producer for Montana Public Radio's "Fireline." They discuss the emotional journey of uncovering family secrets linked to artificial insemination and the complexities of identity. Victor shares insights on how Indigenous tribes in Montana, like the Confederated Salish and Kootenai, are reviving traditional fire management practices to combat wildfires, highlighting the profound connection between culture and ecological health.

Nikole Hannah-Jones, an investigative journalist at The New York Times and creator of the influential 1619 Project, challenges conventional narratives of American history. She discusses how the 1619 Project reframes the understanding of slavery and Black contributions, advocating for a deeper engagement with historical injustices. Hannah-Jones delves into the political battles over historical interpretation, reflecting on how these narratives shape present-day identity and discourse. The conversation calls for a shared history to move forward and confront America's past.

In 1927, the most destructive river flood in U.S. history inundated seven states, displaced more than half a million people for months, and caused about $1 billion dollars in property damages. And like many national emergencies it exposed a stark question that the country still struggles to answer - what is the political calculus used to decide who bears the ultimate responsibility in a crisis, especially when it comes to the most vulnerable? This week, the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 and what came after. To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

Haris Durrani, a sci-fi writer and Princeton historian, delves into the enduring relevance of Dune's lore. He discusses the 2021 film's strengths and weaknesses, focusing on its cultural representation and ties to Middle Eastern history. The conversation highlights themes of imperialism, messianic beliefs, and environmental issues. Durrani also critiques different portrayals of jihad, emphasizing the need for authentic Muslim voices in storytelling. The intersection of Islamic architecture and sci-fi elements rounds out this fascinating exploration.

Drones sometimes hold life and death in their mechanical clutches, silently stalking targets from the sky. The podcast dives into the ethically charged narrative surrounding the Hazara people's dangerous journey under drone surveillance, punctuated by tragic civilian casualties. It traces the evolution of aerial warfare, from the Wright brothers' historic flight to modern military drones, highlighting the paradox of technology intended to minimize harm often leading to unintended destruction. The discussion navigates complex moral landscapes, especially under changing military strategies.

In this fascinating discussion, author Lisa Morton shares her extensive knowledge on Halloween's rich history. She reveals its origins in ancient Celtic rituals and how they evolved through time, influenced by the Catholic Church and American culture. The transformation from a spiritual celebration to a booming commercial event is explored, highlighting the journey of trick-or-treating and the rise of Halloween in popular media. Morton also discusses the festival's growing inclusivity, especially within the LGBTQ community, showcasing its vibrant cultural significance today.

Evangeline Adams, an early 20th-century astrologer, transformed astrology into a mainstream sensation in the U.S. She navigated skepticism and societal stigma, ultimately shaping perceptions of astrology. The discussion dives into her trial for fortune-telling, her unexpected reliance by Wall Street investors, and astrology's boom post-World War I. The conversation also touches on Nancy Reagan's embrace of astrology in political decisions, showcasing its surprising cultural impact and relevance in modern society.

Lane Kaplan-Levinson, a producer known for her thought-provoking work on nostalgia, explores how the pandemic ignited a nostalgic fervor. They discuss nostalgia's complex role, from offering comfort to acting as a barrier to progress. The conversation dives into its historical roots as a disease among soldiers, its evolution into a cultural emotion, and the impact of nostalgia on identity during times of change. Anecdotes from the 1970s America highlight nostalgia's powerful influence in shaping societal narratives and personal memories.