Writer's Voice podcast

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A tartalmat a Francesca Rheannon biztosítja. Az összes podcast-tartalmat, beleértve az epizódokat, grafikákat és podcast-leírásokat, közvetlenül a Francesca Rheannon vagy a podcast platform partnere tölti fel és biztosítja. Ha úgy gondolja, hogy valaki az Ön engedélye nélkül használja fel a szerzői joggal védett művét, kövesse az itt leírt folyamatot https://hu.player.fm/legal.

Species Unite

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Andrew Stein: Living with Lions 46:39

13 napja46:39

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46:39

“If we march into that village and we start trying to persecute people for using poison, something that's very illegal, nobody's going to talk to us. We're not going to find out where the poison came from. We're not going to be able to shut anything down. We should take the approach that people are using poison because they're desperate, because they see no other alternative.” – Andrew Stein Andrew Stein is a wildlife ecologist who spent the past 25 years studying human carnivore conflict from African wild dogs and lions in Kenya and Botswana to leopards and hyenas in Namibia. His work has long focused on finding ways for people and predators to coexist. He is the founder of CLAWS , an organization based in Botswana that's working at the intersection of cutting-edge wildlife research and community driven conservation. Since its start in 2014 and official launch as an NGO in 2020, CLAWS has been pioneering science-based, tech-forward strategies to reduce conflict between people and carnivores. By collaborating closely with local communities, especially traditional cattle herders, CLAWS supports both species conservation and rural livelihoods—making coexistence not just possible, but sustainable.…

Writer's Voice

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Talking to writers about matters that move us

29 epizódok

#Society #Books #Arts #Talk About The Books #Francesca Rheannon

Writer's Voice

27 subscribers

updated 3 napja

Megosztás

Sorozat kép•Feed

Talking to writers about matters that move us

29 epizódok

#Society #Books #Arts #Talk About The Books #Francesca Rheannon

Усі епізоди

Writer's Voice

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Seeds, Symphonies, and Survival: Leningrad’s Resistance in Science and Music 58:36

3 napja58:36

58:36

Writer’s Voice: compelling conversations with authors who challenge, inspire, and inform. Episode Summary Two riveting accounts from the Siege of Leningrad during WWII: In the first half, Simon Parkin discusses The Forbidden Garden , the incredible true story of Soviet botanists who protected the world’s first seed bank during the Nazi blockade—sacrificing their own lives to preserve biodiversity. “They have this decision—do we eat the seeds, do we distribute them to the starving people, or do we deny our hunger and preserve the collection?” — Simon Parkin Then, we revisit my 2015 conversation with M.T. Anderson about his award-winning biography Symphony for the City of the Dead , a dramatic account of Dmitri Shostakovich and how his Seventh Symphony became a beacon of resistance and hope for the starving city. The Seventh Symphony gave Leningraders the story of a victory that might be possible.” — M.T. Anderson Together, these stories explore moral courage under the most agonizing duress, where dedication to science and to art rallied the deepest reserves of human resilience. Connect with WV: Follow us on Bluesky @writersvoice.bsky.social and subscribe to our Substack . Or find us on Instagram @WritersVoicePodcast You can support our show and the others you listen to by contributing through Lenny.fm . Your support helps us bring you more of the episodes, like this one, that you look forward to. Thanks for being a vital part of our community! Key Words : Siege of Leningrad, Dmitri Shostakovich Seventh Symphony, Simon Parkin The Forbidden Garden, M.T. Anderson Symphony for the City of the Dead, Leningrad seed bank WWII, Leningrad Symphony broadcast, You Might Also Like: Sasha Vasilyuk, YOUR PRESENCE IS MANDATORY Segment One: Simon Parkin Journalist Simon Parkin shares the extraordinary true story behind his book The Forbidden Garden , about the heroic botanists who starved rather than eat the seeds they were safeguarding for future generations. Key Topics: Who was Nikolai Vavilov and why he created the first seed bank Scientific rivalry: Vavilov vs. Lysenko and Stalin’s ideological war on genetics The Siege of Leningrad and the desperate conditions under German blockade Why botanists chose to starve rather than consume their edible seed collection The legacy of the seed bank and what it means for global food security today Listen to a sample from The Forbidden Garden Segment Two: M.T. Anderson In a previously recorded conversation, we speak with acclaimed author M.T. Anderson about his book Symphony for the City of the Dead , the story of composer Dmitri Shostakovich and the Seventh Symphony that inspired a besieged city. Key Topics: Shostakovich’s Seventh Symphony as a sonic act of resistance The clandestine journey of the Leningrad Symphony from Soviet Russia to the U.S. How music uplifted morale during the darkest hours of the Leningrad siege Stalin’s censorship, Shostakovich’s brush with death, and the politics of art The revolutionary fervor of 1920s Soviet avant-garde culture and its tragic suppression…

Writer's Voice

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Sanjana Sekhar, METAMORPHOSIS & Sy Montgomery, WHAT THE CHICKEN KNOWS 56:39

10 napja56:39

56:39

Writer’s Voice: compelling conversations with authors who challenge, inspire, and inform. Episode Summary Earth Day is coming up this month, so we get a jump on environmental awareness. From visionary climate futures to the minds of our feathered friends, this episode reminds us that joy, attention, and imagination may be our greatest tools for survival. First, we speak with Sanjana Sekhar , editor of Metamorphosis: Climate Fiction for a Better Future , a bold new anthology of climate fiction that reimagines our planet’s future with optimism and justice at its core. “Ancestral intelligence is the first AI—it’s the wisdom that has always known how to live on this planet.” — Sanjana Sekhar Then we sit down with beloved naturalist and author Sy Montgomery to explore the surprising world of chickens—yes, chickens—in her delightfully enlightening new book, What the Chicken Knows: A New Appreciation of the World’s Most Familiar Bird . “Almost everything we know about chickens is wrong.” — Sy Montgomery Connect with WV: Follow us on Bluesky @writersvoice.bsky.social and subscribe to our Substack . Or find us on Instagram @WritersVoicePodcast You can support our show and the others you listen to by contributing through Lenny.fm . Your support helps us bring you more of the episodes, like this one, that you look forward to. Thanks for being a vital part of our community! Key Words : Sanjana Sekhar, Metamorphosis anthology, Imagine 2200, climate fiction, cli-fi, climate hope, Sy Montgomery, What the Chicken Knows, animal intelligence, ethical eating, chicken cognition, Earth Day You Might Also Like: Sy Montgomery & Matthew Patterson: OF TIME AND TURTLES , James Bridle, WAYS OF BEING & Sy Montgomery, THE HAWK’S WAY Read The Transcript Segment 1: Sanjana Sekhar on Metamorphosis: Climate Fiction for a Better Future Writer and climate storyteller Sanjana Sekhar discusses Metamorphosis , a collection of short stories from the Grist-sponsored Imagine 2200 initiative. The anthology challenges climate “doomism” with imaginative, justice-centered, anti-dystopian narratives that draw on ancestral intelligence, cultural resilience, and radical hope. Sekhar’s own story, Cabbage Kura: A Prognostic Autobiography , explores climate change through the lens of generational memory and joy in the face of loss. Key Topics The Imagine 2200 initiative and the role of climate fiction Shifting from apocalyptic to hopeful narratives in climate storytelling Intergenerational resilience and ancestral intelligence Cultural memory, migration, and climate adaptation The politics of land, conservation, and the myth of “green colonialism” How storytelling can drive local climate solutions and systemic change Featured Stories in the Anthology Cabbage Koora by Sanjana Sekhar A Holdout in Northern California’s Designated Wildcraft Zone – explores tech, rewilding, and land justice To Labor for the Hive – a tale of ecological renewal and human connection in post-coal China Segment 2: Sy Montgomery on What the Chicken Knows: A New Appreciation of the World’s Most Familiar Bird Naturalist and bestselling author Sy Montgomery returns with What the Chicken Knows , a charming and revelatory exploration of one of the most misunderstood animals: the domestic chicken. Drawing on her decades of animal observation, Montgomery highlights the emotional lives, intelligence, and social sophistication of chickens—and offers a heartfelt critique of industrial animal agriculture. Key Topics How chickens demonstrate emotion, cognition, and social bonds What we’ve gotten wrong about chickens and why it matters The science behind chicken language, recognition, and problem-solving Anthropomorphism vs. ethological empathy in studying animals Chickens as a lens into ethics, ecology, and human connection Humane alternatives to factory-farmed poultry and eggs Ethical Living Tips from Sy Montgomery Buy only pasture-raised eggs or get them from local humane sources Use chickpea water (aquafaba) as a vegan egg substitute Avoid rewarding factory farming with your purchases Celebrate animal sentience by paying attention to the everyday creatures around you Listen to a Sample…

Writer's Voice

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Poetry of Place and Freedom with Forrest Gander and DaMaris Hill 1:08:20

19 napja1:08:20

1:08:20

Episode Summary This is the first week of April and April is Poetry Month. So we are so pleased to feature two conversations with poets who use their genre as a vehicle for historical witness and spiritual transformation. First, we talk with poet, geologist and translator Forrest Gander about his novel in poetry Mojave Ghost . It’s a lyrical journey through the arid landscapes of the Mojave Desert that interweaves ecological awareness with personal loss. First, we talk with poet, geologist and translator Forrest Gander about his novel in poetry Mojave Ghost. It’s a lyrical journey through the arid landscapes of the Mojave Desert that interweaves ecological awareness with personal loss. — Forrest Gander Then, we revisit my 2019 conversation with poet DaMaris Hill , about her book of poems: A Bound Woman Is A Dangerous Thing . It’s a searing poetic exploration of Black women’s incarceration and resistance throughout American history. “Black women’s resistance has always been an act of storytelling—of making sure we are seen, heard, and remembered.” — DaMaris Hill Connect with WV: Follow us on Bluesky @writersvoice.bsky.social and subscribe to our Substack . Or find us on Instagram @WritersVoicePodcast You can support our show and the others you listen to by contributing through Lenny.fm . Your support helps us bring you more of the episodes, like this one, that you look forward to. Thanks for being a vital part of our community! Key Words : Forrest Gander, Mojave Desert , poetry and nature, ecological poetry, Pulitzer Prize poet, environmental literature, contemporary poetry, DaMaris Hill, A Bound Woman Is a Dangerous Thing , Black women in poetry, historical poetry, poetry and activism, feminist poetry, poetry and social justice, contemporary Black poets, Poetry Month, You Might Also Like: Nikki Giovanni on HipHop Poetry , Scott Chaskey: Soil & Spirit Segment 1: Forrest Gander Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Forrest Gander discusses Mojave Desert , his immersive, book-length poem that blends environmental observation with personal reflection. Gander, known for his deep engagement with the natural world and linguistic experimentation, explores the Mojave’s stark beauty and the existential themes that arise from it. Key Topics: The poetic and philosophical themes of Mojave Desert How landscape and language interact in Gander’s work The influence of ecology and the environment on poetry The role of grief, memory, and renewal in his poetry The rhythm and structure of a book-length poem Segment 2: DaMaris Hill Poet and scholar DaMaris Hill shares insights into A Bound Woman Is a Dangerous Thing , a collection that weaves together poetry and history to honor the resistance and resilience of Black women. Through powerful verse, Hill brings to light the often-overlooked stories of women who fought against systemic oppression, from Harriet Tubman to modern-day activists. Key Topics: The historical and cultural influences behind A Bound Woman Is a Dangerous Thing Poetry as a medium for reclaiming silenced voices The intersection of personal and collective history in Hill’s work Black women’s resistance and survival throughout history The connection between poetry and activism Next Week on Writer’s Voice: We talk with Jamaican poet Ishion Hutchinson about his stunning collection of essays, Fugitive Tilts . Then Sanjana Sekhar tells us about a visionary collection of stories from Grist’s short story contest to imagine positive futures in a climate-changed world, Metamorphosis .…

Writer's Voice

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Speculative Futures: Cary Groner & Silvia Park on Survival, AI, and the Meaning of Being Human 56:14

26 napja56:14

56:14

Episode Summary We explore two speculative fiction novels that challenge our understanding of consciousness, communication and the human condition. First, we speak with Cary Groner about The Way , a post-pandemic road novel that blends adventure, Buddhist philosophy, and a hopeful vision of the future after our current civilization has been largely swept away. “It’s not all doom and gloom. Unlike most post-apocalyptic novels, I wanted to show a world where life adapts, and maybe even gets better.” — Cary Groner Then, we welcome Silvia Park to discuss Luminous , a hauntingly prescient novel about AI, identity, and the blurred line between human and machine. We build robots to love us—but does that love mean anything if we programmed it? — Silvia Park Both stories wrestle with profound questions: What does it mean to live ethically in a fractured world? And can technology truly replace—or surpass—our humanity? Connect with WV: Follow us on Bluesky @writersvoice.bsky.social and subscribe to our Substack . Or find us on Instagram @WritersVoicePodcast You can support our show and the others you listen to by contributing through Lenny.fm . Your support helps us bring you more of the episodes, like this one, that you look forward to. Thanks for being a vital part of our community! Key Words : Speculative fiction, post-apocalyptic, robots, human-animal communication, consciousness, AI, Buddhist ethics, Cary Groner, Silvia Park, sci fi, The Way novel, You Might Also Like: Sci-fi Imagines Climate Change: Paolo Bacigalupi’s THE WATER KNIFE & SHIPBREAKER Synopsis of THE WAY Set in mid-century 2048 after a devastating pandemic, The Way follows Will, a caretaker of a Buddhist monastery, on a critical mission across a transformed America. With animal companions Peau the Raven and Cassie the Cat, Will navigates a world where the human population has dramatically decreased and nature is reclaiming its space. Cary Groner Interview: Topics Covered The novel’s setting in a post-pandemic America where 80% of the population has vanished Why Groner sees the book as post-apocalyptic but not dystopian Protagonist’s Buddhist philosophy and ethical dilemmas in a lawless world The role of interspecies communication as a sign of healing between humans and nature The resurgence of wildlife and the return of extinct species The novel as both a warning and a hopeful vision for the future Synopsis of LUMINOUS Set in a reunified Korea, Luminous follows a family with a unique dynamic: two human siblings and their robot brother Yo-Yo. The novel explores complex relationships between humans and robots, examining questions of love, memory, and what constitutes consciousness. Silvia Park Interview: Key Topics How AI and robotics shape a reunified Korea post-war The role of robots in family structures—caretakers, siblings, even romantic partners The central mystery of Yo-Yo, a robot who defies expectations and may possess a soul The ethical dilemmas of AI companionship and whether love can be programmed Morgan’s struggle with creating a robotic boyfriend who loves her—but is he real? Jun’s identity as a transgender war veteran and his struggle with his cybernetic body How society’s treatment of robots reflects historical patterns of oppression and dehumanization The dark undercurrent of ritualized violence against AI and its parallels to human history The philosophical question: If AI surpasses us in intelligence and empathy, what happens next? READ AN EXCERPT FROM LUMINOUS…

Writer's Voice

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Breaking Barriers on Denali: Cassidy Randall on THIRTY BELOW & Omar El Akkad on Empire, Liberalism & Bearing Witness 58:06

5 weeks58:06

58:06

Episode Summary For Women’s History Month, we speak with Cassidy Randall about her book Thirty Below , which tells the gripping true story of the first all-women’s ascent of Denali in 1970. Facing extreme sexism, brutal conditions, and life-threatening storms, this pioneering team of climbers defied expectations and set a precedent for future generations of women in mountaineering. Randall shares the harrowing details of their climb, the deep social dynamics at play, and why this historic feat was largely forgotten—until now. “If a woman failed on a climb, it was seen as proof that all women were incapable. But when they succeeded, their achievements were ignored.” — Cassidy Randall Then, award-winning journalist and author Omar El Akkad joins us to discuss his latest book, One Day Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This , an urgent and unflinching critique of empire, media, and the failures of mainstream liberalism. “They told us the loss of free speech would only apply to ‘them’—to terrorists, to the people who don’t matter. But it never stops there.” — Omar El Akkad Connect with WV: Follow us on Bluesky @writersvoice.bsky.social and subscribe to our Substack . Or find us on Instagram @WritersVoicePodcast You can support our show and the others you listen to by contributing through Lenny.fm . Your support helps us bring you more of the episodes, like this one, that you look forward to. Thanks for being a vital part of our community! Key Words : Gaza war and U.S. complicity, Gaza genocide, U.S. foreign policy and empire, Student protests for Palestine, journalism and state censorship, One Day Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This, Thirty Below, women climbers, Denali, mountaineering, CassidyRandall, womens history, adventure stories, extreme climbing You Might Also Like: Omar El Akkad: What Strange Paradise Cassidy Randall Interview: Key Points Denali’s Brutal Environment – Why this 20,000+ ft peak is one of the most dangerous mountains on Earth. Sexism in Mountaineering – Women were considered too weak for high-altitude climbing, and even skilled female alpinists were denied opportunities. Grace Hohman’s Motivation – After witnessing a deadly 1967 Denali disaster and losing her husband in a Himalayan avalanche, Grace was determined to prove women could climb on their own. Team Conflicts & Leadership Struggles – Clashing personalities and altitude sickness pushed the expedition to its limits. The Psychology of Extreme Climbing – How genetics, risk, and a deep connection to nature drive climbers to seek the most dangerous peaks. Why the Ascent Was Overlooked – Despite its historic nature, the climb received little media attention, while a later, fatal all-women’s climb made headlines. Legacy of the Denali Damsels – How this climb influenced future female climbers, including Arlene Blum’s groundbreaking Annapurna expedition. Omar El Akkad Interview: Key Points The meaning behind the book’s title and how historical injustices are rewritten after the fact How witnessing the bombardment of Gaza changed El Akkad’s perception of the Western liberal order The gap between the U.S.’s stated values and its actions —funding wars while condemning them How language is manipulated to obscure state violence , from media headlines to legal justifications The role of the Democratic Party in enabling war crimes and eroding civil liberties The rise of anti-protest laws , bans on boycotts, and the criminalization of dissent Generational shifts in political awareness and why younger people are rejecting liberal illusions Why El Akkad focuses his critique on liberals rather than the far right The challenge of voting within a broken system and whether electoral politics can still create change What gives El Akkad hope : grassroots activism, student protests, and the power of solidarity…

Writer's Voice

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Women’s History Month: The Fight for Abortion Rights After Dobbs

6 weeks

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In this episode, we talk with journalist Amanda Becker about the impact of the Dobbs decision, the legal chaos that followed, and how the fight for abortion rights continues. Becker shares insights from her book You Must Stand Up , detailing the rollback of reproductive rights, the history of anti-abortion legislation, and the movement’s ongoing efforts to restore access through ballot measures, legal strategies, and political action. “Fetal personhood is the endgame of the anti-abortion movement. If a fetus has the same rights as you or I, the person carrying it will inevitably have fewer.” — Amanda Becker Connect with WV: Follow us on Bluesky @writersvoice.bsky.social and subscribe to our Substack . Or find us on Instagram @WritersVoicePodcast You can support our show and the others you listen to by contributing through Lenny.fm . Your support helps us bring you more of the episodes, like this one, that you look forward to. Thanks for being a vital part of our community! Key Words : abortion rights, reproductive rights, Dobbs Decision, Roe V. Wade, Amanda Becker, reproductive justice, fetal personhood, abortion access, You Might Also Like: Alice Rothchild , Policing Women’s Bodies , A Woman’s Life Is A Human Life , Key Points: The Chaos After Dobbs – How state laws clashed, causing confusion and immediate clinic closures. History of Anti-Abortion Legislation – The role of the Tea Party and targeted restrictions on abortion providers (TRAP laws). Democratic Inaction – How leaders, including President Obama, deprioritized abortion rights. Healthcare Crisis – The impact of bans on maternal and infant health, and the declining number of OB-GYNs in restrictive states. Threats to Medication Abortion – How legal battles over mifepristone and the Comstock Act could limit access nationwide. The Push for Fetal Personhood – What it means for reproductive rights beyond abortion. Strategies for the Future – The role of ballot initiatives, legal protections, and long-term advocacy. Subscribe & Follow: Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to Writer’s Voice…

Writer's Voice

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Alice Rothchild & Grace Tiffany on Women’s History, Power, and Resistance 58:13

7 weeks58:13

58:13

Episode Summary We speak with two remarkable writers about two fascinating stories—one rooted in personal history, the other in literary imagination—both shedding light on the fight for justice and self-determination. First, Alice Rothchild tells us about Inspired and Outraged: The Making of a Feminist Physician . It’s a powerful memoir in free verse exploring her journey as a feminist, activist, and doctor. “I had potholders on the stirrups, I had a mirror, I had a flashlight, and every woman was invited to take a look down there. It changes the power dynamic.” – Alice Rothchild Then, we turn to historical fiction with Grace Tiffany , whose novel The Owl Was a Baker’s Daughter is a feminist re-imagining of the life of Shakespeare’s daughter during the tumultuous English Civil War. “Women healers were often accused of witchcraft. If something went wrong, you became a target.” – Grace Tiffany Connect with WV: Follow us on Bluesky @writersvoice.bsky.social and subscribe to our Substack . Or find us on Instagram @WritersVoicePodcast You can support our show and the others you listen to by contributing through Lenny.fm . Your support helps us bring you more of the episodes, like this one, that you look forward to. Thanks for being a vital part of our community! Key Words : Alice Rothchild Inspired and Outraged , Grace Tiffany The Owl Was a Baker’s Daughter , Feminism and women’s rights, Shakespeare’s daughter Judith, reproductive rights, women healers and witchcraft accusations, Historical fiction and feminist literature You Might Also Like: Laura Kaplan, JANE, Kerri Maher, ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS CALL Topics Covered: Alice Rothchild Writing a memoir in free verse The personal as political: feminism, activism, and medicine Growing up Jewish and navigating identity in 1950s America Founding one of Boston’s first all-women medical practices The fight for reproductive rights and the impact of Our Bodies, Ourselves Lessons from the past for today’s feminist and political struggles Topics Covered: Grace Tiffany Shakespeare’s daughter Judith: Fact vs. Fiction Women as healers and the threat of witchcraft accusations The English Civil War and its parallels to modern political struggles Puritanism, censorship, and the banning of Shakespeare’s plays A woman’s journey through war, power, and forbidden love Links & Resources: Inspired and Outraged: The Making of a Feminist Physician – Buy the book Read a sample from The Owl Was a Baker’s Daughter Follow Alice Rothchild Follow Grace Tiffany’s Blog Subscribe & Follow: Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to Writer’s Voice…

Writer's Voice

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Bernadette Atuahene: Fighting Predatory Governance & Andrew Boyd: Overcoming Political Overwhelm 57:00

8 weeks57:00

57:00

Episode Summary This episode of Writer’s Voice features two urgent and thought-provoking conversations. First, we speak with Professor Bernadette Atuahene , author of Plundered: How Racist Policies Undermine Black Homeownership in America , about how predatory governance has systematically stripped Black homeowners of generational wealth—particularly in Detroit, where one in three homes has gone through property tax foreclosure since 2009. She explains how local governments exploit racist policies to raise revenue, creating an underreported crisis that has devastated Black communities nationwide. Bernadette Atuahene: “Black and Hispanic homeowners pay higher property tax rates than white homeowners—$300 to $400 more per year. That’s predatory governance at work.” Then, we bring back Andrew Boyd , activist and author of I Want a Better Catastrophe , to discuss his viral Substack post, We Shall Not Be Overwhelmed . In a time of political and social crisis, Boyd shares strategies for avoiding burnout, focusing activism, and fighting back against authoritarianism through selective denial and targeted resistance . Andrew Boyd: “Selective denial, when paired with selective attention, is not about ignorance. It’s about protecting your mental health while focusing on a chosen issue that you can actually impact.” Connect with WV: Follow us on Bluesky @writersvoice.bsky.social and subscribe to our Substack . Or find us on Instagram @WritersVoicePodcast You can support our show and the others you listen to by contributing through Lenny.fm . Your support helps us bring you more of the episodes, like this one, that you look forward to. Thanks for being a vital part of our community! Key Words : Bernadette Atuahene Plundered book, Black homeownership and systemic racism, property tax overassessment in Black communities, Andrew Boyd We Shall Not Be Overwhelmed , activism and mental health strategies, resisting Trump policies effectively You Might Also Like: Andrew Boyd, I WANT A BETTER CATASTROPHE , Tamara Payne on Les Payne’s THE DEAD ARE ARISING Key Topics Covered: Bernadette Atuahene on Plundered What is Predatory Governance? – How local governments raise revenue through racist policies. Detroit’s Property Tax Foreclosure Crisis – Why one in three homes has been foreclosed since 2009, the worst rates since the Great Depression. The Hidden Tax Burden on Black Homeowners – Black and Hispanic homeowners pay 10–13% more in property taxes than white homeowners on average. Historical Context – How racist housing policies like redlining, blockbusting, and urban renewal paved the way for today’s crisis. Fighting Back – How the Coalition for Property Tax Justice is preventing foreclosures and demanding compensation for displaced homeowners. Legal and Political Solutions – Why courts have blocked lawsuits against these policies, and what reforms are needed at state and national levels . Andrew Boyd on We Shall Not Be Overwhelmed How to Cope with Political Chaos – Why selective denial and selective attention can be ethical survival strategies. The Problem with Doomscrolling – How nonstop bad news paralyzes people into inaction, and how to refocus efforts. Finding Your One Thing – Choosing a specific issue or movement to dedicate energy toward, rather than being overwhelmed by everything at once. Trump 2.0 and the Resistance – How to effectively counter authoritarianism through protests, creative messaging, and public opposition. Why “Playing Possum” is a Bad Strategy – A critique of James Carville’s advice to let Trump self-destruct, and why activism must remain strong. Hope Through Action – How focused resistance can be a source of resilience and purpose. Links & Resources: Plundered: How Racist Policies Undermine Black Homeownership in America – Buy the book Coalition for Property Tax Justice – Learn more & donate Andrew Boyd’s Substack, The Tragic Optimist – Read We Shall Not Be Overwhelmed Andrew Boyd, I WANT A BETTER CATASTROPHE – Listen to the Interview Subscribe & Follow: Don’t miss an episode! Follow us on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts . Leave a review and share your thoughts!…

Writer's Voice

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH: Aran Shetterly on The Greensboro Massacre, MORNINGSIDE & Jonathan Eig, KING, A LIFE 57:48

9 weeks57:48

57:48

In this episode, we welcome Aran Shetterly to discuss his powerful new book, Morningside: The 1979 Greensboro Massacre and the Struggle for an American City’s Soul . Shetterly unearths the long-overlooked history of the Greensboro Massacre , a brutal attack in which members of the Ku Klux Klan and neo-Nazis murdered five labor and civil rights activists in broad daylight—while law enforcement stood by. “The most vicious repression in America happens when Black and white workers unite. Greensboro was no exception.” — Aran Shetterly Then we replay part of our 2023 interview with Jonathan Eig about his biography of the Reverend Dr. MLK, Jr., King: A Life . Read the Transcript Black History Month on Writer’s Voice Every week this month, we’ll be featuring books about key times in America’s Black History, a history that enriches and enlightens us all. We talk with: Aaron Robertson, about BLACK UTOPIANS ; Aran Shetterly about MORNINGSIDE: The 1979 Greensboro Massacre; Victoria Christopher Murray about HARLEM RHAPSODY ; Bernadette Atuahene about PLUNDERED You might also like: The Power of Asking Questions: Ethel Payne, First Lady Of The Black Press Freedom Summer, Bob Moses, and the Fight for First Class Citizenship Connect with WV: Follow us on Bluesky @writersvoice.bsky.social and subscribe to our Substack . Or find us on Instagram @WritersVoicePodcast You can support our show and the others you listen to by contributing through Lenny.fm . Your support helps us bring you more of the episodes, like this one, that you look forward to. Thanks for being a vital part of our community! Key Words : Aran Shetterly, Morningside book, Greensboro Massacre, Nelson Johnson, Ku Klux Klan, Communist Workers Party, Martin Luther King, Jr., Jonathan Eig, King: A Life Segment One: Aran Shetterly Aran Shetterly takes us deep into the history behind the massacre, from the labor struggles of the 1970s to the FBI’s infiltration of both the Klan and the Communist Workers Party. He also explores the life and evolution of Nelson Johnson , a central figure in the movement, who transformed from a radical organizer into a leader of faith-based activism and racial reconciliation. This conversation exposes the deep roots of white supremacy, the role of law enforcement in racial violence, and the hard-won fight for justice in Greensboro—a struggle that continues to resonate in today’s America. Key Topics Covered: What Happened on November 3, 1979? – A detailed account of the Greensboro Massacre and its aftermath. Nelson Johnson’s Journey – From radical activism to the founding of the Beloved Community Center and faith-based reconciliation. The Communist Workers Party and Class Struggle – How the victims of the massacre sought to bridge racial and economic divides. The Ku Klux Klan’s Resurgence – Why the 1970s saw a new rise in Klan activity and its links to today’s far-right movements. The FBI’s Role – How law enforcement infiltrated both the Klan and the Communist Workers Party, yet failed to prevent the massacre. White Supremacy and Divide-and-Conquer Tactics – The long history of using race to divide workers and suppress progressive movements. Greensboro’s Truth and Reconciliation Process – How Greensboro became the first U.S. city to conduct a Truth and Reconciliation Commission based on the South African model. Subscribe & Follow: Don’t miss an episode! Follow us on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Leave a review and let us know what you think!…

Writer's Voice

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Black History Month: Victoria Christopher Murray on HARLEM RHAPSODY & Reviving Forgotten Women Writers 59:00

10 weeks59:00

59:00

We sit down with award-winning author Victoria Christopher Murray to talk about Harlem Rhapsody , her novel about the Harlem Renaissance and the woman who made it possible. This gripping novel brings to life Jessie Redmon Fauset , a pioneering literary editor, mentor, and novelist who played a pivotal role in shaping the Harlem Renaissance—yet remains largely forgotten today. “W.E.B. Du Bois and Jessie were always together. I tried to write the story without their affair, but there were too many plot holes. It was part of the truth.” We also talk with the founders of a new publishing company featuring largely forgotten women authors of an earlier time. Bremond Berry MacDougall and Lisa Cooper founded Quite Literally Books — which is coming out with Jessie Redmon Fauset’s 1928 novel Plum Bun , along with two other books. Black History Month on Writer’s Voice Every week this month, we’ll be featuring books about key times in America’s Black History, a history that enriches and enlightens us all. We talk with: Aaron Robertson, BLACK UTOPIANS Aran Shetterly about MORNINGSIDE: The 1979 Greensboro Massacre Victoria Christopher Murray about her novel of the Harlem Renaissance, HARLEM RHAPSODY Bernadette Atuahene about her history of how racist policies undermine Black home ownership In America, PLUNDERED You might also like: Carla Kaplan: Miss Ann in Harlem Connect with WV: Follow us on Bluesky @writersvoice.bsky.social and subscribe to our Substack . Or find us on Instagram @WritersVoicePodcast You can support our show and the others you listen to by contributing through Lenny.fm . Your support helps us bring you more of the episodes, like this one, that you look forward to. Thanks for being a vital part of our community! Key Words : Victoria Christopher Murray, Harlem Rhapsody, Jessie Redmon Fauset biography, Harlem Renaissance, W.E.B. Du Bois, Quite Literally Books, Dorothy Canfield Fisher, Nelia Gardner White Segment One: Victoria Christopher Murray Jessie Redmon Fauset was one of the most influential women in American literary history, yet few remember her today. She helped spark the Harlem Renaissance in her role as literary editor of The Crisis, the magazine of the NAACP. But she carried a secret: Her boss, W. E. B. Du Bois, wasn’t just her mentor—he also was her lover. At least, that’s what novelist Victoria Christopher Murray imagines in her wonderful novel about Jessie Fauset, Harlem Rhapsody. She creates narrative tension between Fauset’s secret liaison with Du Bois and her mission: to scout and champion literary talent among young Black writers. Fauset discovered and mentored such future literary giants as Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, and Nella Larsen. As a Black woman, she stood as a singular figure at the center of a cultural revolution, contending with both racial and gender prejudice to cement her place in history. Victoria Christopher Murray is the New York Times and USA Today best selling author of more than 30 novels. Key Topics Covered: How Jessie Redmon Fauset discovered, mentored, and published some of the greatest Black writers of the Harlem Renaissance Her Complex Relationship with W.E.B. Du Bois – Their intellectual and romantic connection. Gender and Power in the Harlem Renaissance – Why Fauset’s work was overshadowed by men and how sexism shaped her career. The Talented Tenth and Class Divides – How W.E.B. Du Bois’ philosophy impacted Black society and Fauset’s life. The Civic Club Dinner of 1924 – How an event meant to honor Fauset was co-opted by male writers, symbolizing broader gender inequalities. What It Means to Be a ‘Black Writer’ vs. Just a Writer – Murray shares her own experiences navigating racial categorization in publishing. Segment Two: Reviving Forgotten Women Writers with Quite Literally Books We welcome Bremond Berry MacDougall and Lisa Cooper , the co-founders of Quite Literally Books , a new independent press dedicated to reviving out-of-print books by women. Their mission is to bring forgotten female authors back into the literary conversation—especially Black women writers and feminist voices whose works have been overlooked or erased. Key Topics Covered: The Mission of Quite Literally Books – Why MacDougall and Cooper are reviving forgotten women writers. Jessie Redmon Fauset’s Plum Bun – A novel exploring race, gender, and passing through a feminist lens. Feminism in The Homemaker – How Dorothy Canfield Fisher’s novel challenged gender roles 100 years ago —and why it’s still relevant today. Nelia Gardner White’s The Pink House Upcoming Releases – The feminist utopian novel Herland by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, and why its themes of female autonomy resonate today.…

Writer's Voice

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Black History Month: Aaron Robertson, THE BLACK UTOPIANS. Also, Cory Doctorow, PICKS AND SHOVELS 1:16:01

11 weeks1:16:01

1:16:01

In this episode of Writer’s Voice, we talk with Aaron Robertson about his fascinating book, The Black Utopians: Searching for Paradise and the Promised Land in America. It’s about the hidden legacies of Black utopian experiments and what they teach us about the power of community today. Then, we talk with best-selling novelist, journalist and … Continue reading Black History Month: Aaron Robertson, THE BLACK UTOPIANS. Also, Cory Doctorow, PICKS AND SHOVELS →…

Writer's Voice

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From the Amazon to the Chinese Diaspora: Rowan Jacobsen on WILD CHOCOLATE & Karissa Chen on HOMESEEKING 1:02:37

12 weeks1:02:37

1:02:37

In this episode of Writer’s Voice, we explore two fascinating books. Rowan Jacobsen takes us deep into the Amazon in Wild Chocolate, uncovering the origins of cacao and the ethical challenges of the chocolate industry. Then, Karissa Chen discusses Homeseeking, her powerful novel tracing the Chinese diaspora through generations of displacement, love, and longing for … Continue reading From the Amazon to the Chinese Diaspora: Rowan Jacobsen on WILD CHOCOLATE & Karissa Chen on HOMESEEKING →…

Writer's Voice

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Utopias, Pipelines, and Political Art: Karen Joy Fowler, Charlotte Dennett, and Jules Feiffer 58:21

13 weeks58:21

58:21

This week on Writer’s Voice we feature three great conversations. Karen Joy Fowler reflects on the relevance of Ursula K. Le Guin’s The Dispossessed and its vision of utopia on the occasion of the 50th anniversary re-issue of that classic work of speculative fiction. She wrote the introduction. Listen to our 2012 interview with Ursulla … Continue reading Utopias, Pipelines, and Political Art: Karen Joy Fowler, Charlotte Dennett, and Jules Feiffer →…

Writer's Voice

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How Insects Shape Our Culture & Stewarding Wildness 1:03:26

15 weeks1:03:26

1:03:26

In this episode of Writer’s Voice, entomologist and author Barrett Klein discusses his book, The Insect Epiphany: How Our Six-Legged Allies Shape Human Culture. From the crucial roles insects play in ecosystems to their influence on art, architecture, and medicine, Klein unpacks the deep connections between humans and these often misunderstood creatures. [Image above by … Continue reading How Insects Shape Our Culture & Stewarding Wildness →…

Writer's Voice

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Nico Lang On Trans Youth & Lily Tuck On Her New Novel 57:19

16 weeks57:19

57:19

In this week’s episode of WV, nonbinary journalist and author Nico Lang takes us inside the lives of trans and nonbinary youth across America. Their book is AMERICAN TEENAGER: How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate And Finding Joy In A Turbulent Era. “These kids are just trying to live their lives, but they’re forced to … Continue reading Nico Lang On Trans Youth & Lily Tuck On Her New Novel →…

Writer's Voice

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ILLEGALIZED: Rafael Martinez on Undocumented Youth Movements 59:08

17 weeks59:08

59:08

Rafael A. Martinez discusses the lived experiences of undocumented youth in America. He’s Assistant Professor of Southwest Borderlands at Arizona State University and author of Illegalized: Undocumented Youth Movements in the United States. He details how activism and organizing led to gains such as in-state tuition and DACA, but also the precariousness of these advancements … Continue reading ILLEGALIZED: Rafael Martinez on Undocumented Youth Movements →…

Writer's Voice

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SIN PADRES NI PAPELES: Stephanie Canizales on the Lives of Unaccompanied Migrant Youth 54:46

18 weeks54:46

54:46

Sociologist Stephanie Canizales examines the lives of unaccompanied migrant youth in her groundbreaking book, Sin Padres Ni Papeles. Drawing from years of immersive research in the Pico-Union neighborhood of Los Angeles, Canizales sheds light on the systemic challenges these young people face, from exploitative labor conditions to emotional isolation. She connects their experiences to historical … Continue reading SIN PADRES NI PAPELES: Stephanie Canizales on the Lives of Unaccompanied Migrant Youth →…

Writer's Voice

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Threat Multiplier: Sherri Goodman on Climate Change, Security, and Global Resilience 45:42

19 weeks45:42

45:42

Sherri Goodman, a leading voice in climate security, discusses her book Threat Multiplier: Climate, Military Leadership, and the Fight for Global Security. Goodman explores how climate change amplifies instability, from the Middle East’s water crises, to migration in Latin America, to potential conflicts over emerging shipping routes in the melting Arctic. Goodman also shares insights … Continue reading Threat Multiplier: Sherri Goodman on Climate Change, Security, and Global Resilience →…

Writer's Voice

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Mind and Rhythm: Daniel Fryer on Hypnotherapy & Nikki Giovanni on Hip Hop Poetry 57:10

19 weeks57:10

57:10

In this episode of Writer’s Voice, we speak with Daniel Fryer, author of How to Cope with Almost Anything with Hypnotherapy, about the science and uses of hypnotherapy in mental health and well-being. Then, we honor the late Nikki Giovanni with a replay of our 2009 conversation about Hip Hop Speaks to Children, celebrating poetry’s … Continue reading Mind and Rhythm: Daniel Fryer on Hypnotherapy & Nikki Giovanni on Hip Hop Poetry →…

Writer's Voice

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Slippery Beast: Ellen Ruppel Shell on Eels, Ecology, and the Global Wildlife Trade 29:17

20 weeks29:17

29:17

In this episode, we dive into the world of eels with Ellen Ruppel Shell, author of Slippery Beast: A True Crime Natural History with Eels. From ancient mysteries and ecological importance to international crime syndicates and sustainable farming, Ruppel Shell unravels the fascinating and complex story of one of nature’s most enigmatic creatures. The conversation … Continue reading Slippery Beast: Ellen Ruppel Shell on Eels, Ecology, and the Global Wildlife Trade →…

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