Podcasts about Literature

It's The Stacks Book Club day, and I'm joined by Emmy-nominated TV writer, journalist, and host of Pop Syllabus, Christiana Mbakwe Medina, to discuss Girl on Girl: How Pop Culture Turned a Generation of Women Against Themselves by Sophie Gilbert. In this book, Sophie Gilbert highlights the ways the rampant misogyny of '90s and early 2000s pop culture continues to shape attitudes toward women today. We talk today about how the book tackles reality TV, postfeminism, incel culture, porn, and more.Make sure you listen to the end of the episode to hear what our February book club pick will be!You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks website: https://www.thestackspodcast.com/2026/1/28/ep-409-girl-on-girlConnect with Christiana: Instagram | Pop Syllabus Podcast | Substack | ThreadsConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Threads | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Youtube | SubscribeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As Clyde rots in a Bridgeburg jail cell concocting, with attorneys Bellknap & Jephson, some potential defense which a jury will believe, your host goes on a brief philosophical amble regarding Truth! Yes, Truth, that misty island just offshore. PLUS, the question is asked: "What relationship did Dreiser have, if any, with Mark Twain?" The answer will SHOCK you!!!Support Obscure!Read Michael's substackFollow Michael on TwitterFollow Michael on InstagramSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

THE RIPPLE EFFECT PODCAST:Website: http://TheRippleEffectPodcast.comSupport: https://rickyvarandas.com/support/IPAK-EDU (Empower Yourself Through Knowledge)Website: https://IPAK-EDU.org/ (use RIPPLE for 10% off)VN Alexander, PhD (aka Tori)Website: https://vnalexander.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/rednaxelairot/AI & Transhumanism Essay: posthumousstyle.substack.comBio: Philosopher of science known for her work on Vladimir Nabokov's theory of insect mimicry evolution. She is a member of the Third Way of Evolution research group and currently works in the field of Biosemiotics.  She earned her Ph.D. in 2002 in English at the Graduate Center, City University New York and did her dissertation research in teleology, evolutionary theory, and self-organization at the Santa Fe Institute. She is a Rockefeller Foundation Residency alum, a former NY Council for the Humanities scholar, and a 2020 Fulbright scholar in Russia. Books include The Biologist's Mistress: Rethinking Self-Organization in Art, Literature and Nature and several literary fiction and political science novels.Xavier A. Figueroa, Ph.D (aka Dr. X)X: https://x.com/DrXFig0708Bio: The principal scientist for EMulate Therapeutics overseeing pre-clinical research and the application of EMulate Therapeutics technology in multiple disease areas. He has more than 20 years of experience in basic and neurological clinical research, including Alzheimer's research, neuron biology, cancer research, bioengineering and biophysics. Dr. Figeuroa received his doctoral degree in Neurobiology & Behavior from the University of Washington. His doctoral training was followed by two post-doctoral fellowships within the University of Washington's Department of Bioengineering. He is currently an affiliate assistant professor in the School of Medicine at the University of Washington. Specialties include, Molecular Biology, Toxicology, Apoptosis Signaling and Regulation, Neuroscience and Neurodegenerative Expertise.Dr. James Lyons-Weiler (aka Dr. Jack)Website: https://jameslyonsweiler.com/Substack: https://popularrationalism.substack.com/Earned his PhD in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology. He has held research positions at esteemed institutions, including the University of Nevada, Reno, and the University of Pittsburgh (Dept Pathology & Dept. of Biomedical Informatics). Dr. Lyons-Weiler has an extensive portfolio of peer-reviewed articles covering various scientific disciplines such as genetics, evolution, and public health. Notably, he has conducted research on the safety of aluminum adjuvants in vaccines, focusing on their dosing and potential health implications, especially in pediatric populations. His work on “pathogenic priming” and its potential relevance to COVID-19 has also been significant. Lyons-Weiler founded the Institute for Pure and Applied Knowledge (IPAK), a research organization. He also founded IPAK-EDU, an educational platform that has educated over 1,400 students in advanced courses across a wide variety of subjects. You can find more information about these courses on their official website.

Premiering today on Holocaust Remembrance Day, as part of PBS's American Masters series, the new documentary "Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire" captures the life of the human rights activist and Night author. Director Oren Rudavsky and Wiesel's son Elisha Wiesel, discuss the film, and the life of the influential survivor.

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with author Andromeda Romano-Lax to discuss her novel What Boys Learn. The conversation explores the cultural forces shaping boys today, the influence of motherhood, and how societal expectations impact masculinity and identity. Andromeda also shares insights into her writing process, her work as a book coach, and her transition between genres. Together, they examine the power of fiction and storytelling to illuminate contemporary social issues and spark meaningful conversations.What We're Talking About...Andromeda Romano-Lax is the author of seven books spanning multiple genres, including literary fiction, historical fiction, and thrillers.What Boys Learn examines the cultural and social forces shaping boys and young men today.The novel explores the influential role of mothers in their sons' emotional development and identity formation.Andromeda's writing process is deeply rooted in reflection on contemporary societal issues.Empathy is central to her approach to storytelling and character development.Her transition from historical fiction to thrillers was influenced by her pandemic-era reading habits.Andromeda works as a book coach, mentoring writers from diverse backgrounds and genres.Fiction can act as a release valve for societal tensions and unspoken anxieties.The impact of social media on young men and masculinity is a major concern discussed in the episode.Andromeda aims to write across multiple genres, using different storytelling forms to explore complex ideas.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Andromeda Romano-Lax01:06 Exploring Themes in What Boys Learn06:00 Cultural Influences and Social Media's Role10:59 Character Dynamics and Story Development16:51 Genre Exploration and Writing Process21:08 Coaching Writers and the Importance of Stories24:53 Reflections on Current Events and Literature's RoleLinks MentionedAndromeda Roman-Lax's Instagram: @‌romanolaxOrder your copy of What Boys Learn: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/what-boys-learn-andromeda-romano-lax/1147241844

See Andrew and Craig. See Andrew and Craig read. Read, Andrew and Craig, read! The Dick and Jane characters are still widely known, even though their heyday as The Main Way American Kids Learn How To Read has long since passed. Join us for a discussion of how these (now public domain!) characters came to be, the method of reading instruction they embody, how they came to dominate American classrooms, and how their reign of terror was finally ended. Obviously, we all hope that Father gets the help he needs. Head to MarleySpoon.com/offer/overdue for 45% off your first order and free delivery!Our theme music was composed by Nick Lerangis.Follow @overduepod on Instagram and BlueskyAdvertise on OverdueSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week's episode is sweeping, interesting, and passionate. Guest Andre Dubus III takes us on a ride through some of memoir's more confounding territory—what's yours to tell; considerations of harm; writing about violence; and getting to truth on the page. Also, Grant has a new book out, and we talk about his book trailer in this week's episode. Watch here.Andre Dubus III has authored nine books including the New York Times' bestsellers House of Sand and Fog, The Garden of Last Days, and his memoir, Townie. His most recent novel, Such Kindness, was published in June 2023, and a collection of personal essays, Ghost Dogs: On Killers and Kin, was published in March 2024. Dubus has been a finalist for the National Book Award, and has been awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship, The National Magazine Award for Fiction, three Pushcart Prizes, and is a recipient of an American Academy of Arts and Letters Award in Literature. He teaches at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We air our live conversation with Ocean Vuong from our January Get Lit with All Of It book club event. We spent the month reading his novel, The Emperor of Gladness.  

In Part 2 of our discussion on Murasaki Shikibu's The Tale of Genji, editor Dennis Washburn returns to discuss the importance of the colors of the Norton Library edition, the ways the text spoke to him during his translation process, and the self-evaluation that occurs through reading something unfamiliar. (P. S. Hi, Shonda Rhimes! Please, please, please work your magic with an adaptation ofThe Tale of Genji!) Dennis Washburn is the Burlington northern Foundation professor of Asian studies at Dartmouth College. He holds a Ph.D. in Japanese Language and Literature from Yale University and has authored and edited studies on a range of literary and cultural topics. These include: The Dilemma of the Modern in Japanese Fiction; Translating Mount Fuji: Modern Japanese Fiction and the Ethics of Identity; and The Affect of Difference: Representations of Race in East Asian Empire. In addition to his scholarly publications, he has translated several works of Japanese fiction, including Yokomitsu Riichi's Shanghai, Tsushima Tsushima Tuko's Laughing Wolf, and Mizukami Tsutomu's The Temple of the Wild Geese, for which he was awarded the US-Japan Friendship Commission Prize. In 2004 he was awarded the Japan Foreign Minister's citation for promoting cross-cultural understanding.To learn more or purchase a copy of the Norton Library edition of The Tale of Genji, go to https://wwnorton.com/books/9780393427912.Learn more about the Norton Library series at https://wwnorton.com/norton-library.Have questions or suggestions for the podcast? Email us at nortonlibrary@wwnorton.com or find us on Twitter at @TNL_WWN and Bluesky at @nortonlibrary.bsky.social. 

662. Part 1 of our conversation with Matthew and Melissa, hosts of the the "This Ain't It" podcast, covering their response to MAGA religion. Hosted by Matthew Teutsch, a scholar of African American literature and Director of the Lillian E. Smith Center, and his wife Melissa Teutsch, the show explores the intersection of culture, politics, and history. Together, they engage in deep conversations about civil rights, the power of rhetoric, and the ongoing struggle for social justice in the American South and beyond. By examining the "interminable" nature of systemic oppression, the Teutsches challenge listeners to embrace the responsibility of resistance through education and empathy. Now available: Liberty in Louisiana: A Comedy. The oldest play about Louisiana, author James Workman wrote it as a celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. Now it is back in print for the first time in 222 years. Order your copy today! This week in the Louisiana Anthology. Dorothy Day wrote the article, “Florence Is a Communist.”     “Do you know what Communism is, Florence?”    “Yes, I am a Communist,” Florence stated, and afterward when we were alone together in the kitchen she went into more details about her beliefs.     “Communism,” she stated, “is to help the poor.” So the poor of the small town of Jacobi where she came from, were quite ready to be enrolled in the ranks of the Communists.     There were about eighty Negroes signed up with the Communist group in her little town in Louisiana, and in the neighboring towns of Lettsworth, Lagonia, Batchelor, Torras and Susport there were groups of from forty to sixty in each town.     They were not doing anything much at present, not even meeting, she explained, since the young Communist organizer who had been keeping contact with them had been jailed and run out of town. He had been transferred by the Party to another state, so there the matter was halted. This week in Louisiana history. January 23, 1680. Bienville born in Montreal, Canada, 12 of 14 children.  This week in New Orleans history. The Clio streetcar ran from January 23, 1867 until September 1, 1932.  This line originally ran from Canal Street up to Clio Street to Magnolia Street, returning on Erato and Carondelet Streets. In 1874, it was extended across Canal Street to Elysian Fields, making it the first streetcar line to cross Canal Street. It was extended at both ends from time to time, before giving up its territory to newer lines in 1932. This week in Louisiana. January 31, 2026 The Legends of Hip Hop Tour Shreveport Municipal Auditorium 705 Elvis Presley Ave. Shreveport, LA 71101 Website: shreveportmunicipalauditorium.com Email: info@shreveportmunicipalauditorium.com Phone: (318) 841-4000 A star-studded concert featuring some of the biggest names in classic hip hop. Lineup & Details This event takes place in the historic venue where Elvis Presley got his start: 7:00 PM: Doors open to the public. 8:00 PM: Show starts. The Lineup: The 2026 tour features performances by Webbie, Ying Yang Twins, Trina, and Lil' Keke. The Venue: The “Muni” is a National Historic Landmark, offering an intimate and high-enenrgy atmosphere.  The After-Party: Many local downtown Shreveport bars host unofficial after-parties following the show. End: Approximately 11:30 PM. Note for Listeners: This is an all-ages show, but parental discretion is advised due to concert volume and lyrical content. Postcards from Louisiana. Florida Street Blowhards at LSU. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

Gen 48:1-49:33, Matt 15:29-16:12, Ps 20:1-9, Pr 4:20-27

In the spotlight is Jesse Kavadlo, author of “Rock of Pages,” a book inspired by his decades of work as a professor of literature and as a musician. In “Rock of Pages,” Kavadlo analyzes the ways in which 1980s heavy metal aligns with and develops many of the themes prevalent in the canon of literature. In doing so, the book examines some of the contexts of 1980s heavy metal, including the Cold War, the rise of MTV, and the formation of the Parents Music Resource Center and subsequent congressional hearings.  Learn more about Jesse Kavaldo and his books and teaching here: https://jessekavadlo.com  Novelist Spotlight is produced and hosted by Mike Consol. Check out his novels here: https://snip.ly/yz18no     Write to Mike Consol at novelistspotlight@gmail.com  

Dr. Sanjeev Chopra is a distinguished retired IAS officer of the 1985 batch (West Bengal cadre), celebrated for his transition from a bureaucrat to a prominent historian, author, and literary curator.He is best known for his tenure as the Director of the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie, where he played a pivotal role in training India's civil servants. Over a career spanning 36 years, he held various significant portfolios, including Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of West Bengal in the Department of Industry, Commerce and Enterprises.An alumnus of JNU with a PhD in Management and degrees in Law, History, and Literature, Dr. Chopra has authored influential books such as We, the People of the States of Bharat: The Making and Remaking of India's Internal Boundaries and The Great Conciliator: Lal Bahadur Shastri and the Transformation of India. Currently residing in Dehradun, he is the founder and curator of the "Valley of Words" International Literary and Arts Festival, continuing to bridge the worlds of governance and literature.

Another month, another new member of the BSC! This time it's Jessi, ballerina extraordinaire, who also happens to be adept at learning languages. And her first big job involves learning sign language so she can babysit Matt Braddock, whose family just moved to town. Soon everybody in Stonybrook is learning to sign! Plus there's a whole parallel story about Jessi's ballet school. And really it's just a charming story about inclusivity and helping people feel like they belong!This episodes posted first for Patreon supporters in March 2025! If you want to hear the rest of our longreads ahead of time (and a bunch of other stuff besides), visit Patreon.com/overduepod.Here's the full Sit Me Baby One More Time reading list:Kristy's Great IdeaClaudia and the Phantom Phone CallsThe Truth about StaceyMary Anne Saves the DayDawn and the Impossible ThreeHello, MalloryJessi's Secret LanguageWelcome to the BSC, AbbyOur theme music was composed by Nick Lerangis.Follow @overduepod on Instagram and BlueskyAdvertise on OverdueSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's time for a Stacks Unabridged favorite: Our Most Anticipated Books of 2026...at least the first half anyway. I'm once again joined by two of my favorite book people, Cree Myles (All Ways Black) and Sara Hildreth (Fiction Matters), to gush about the books we can't wait to dive into in the first half of the year, sharing our top picks month by month. Plus, we do a little post-mortem on 2025 and set some semi-realistic reading goals for 2026. Get your TBR lists ready—you'll have a lot of new additions.You can find links to everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks Website: https://www.thestackspodcast.com/unabridged/2026/1/23/tsu-55-sara-hildreth-cree-myles*This episode is exclusive to members of The Stacks Pack on Patreon and our Substack subscribers. To join a community, get inside access to the show, and listen now, click the link below.Connect with Cree: Instagram | Twitter | All Ways Black | PatreonConnect with Sara: Instagram | Fiction Matters | Novel Pairings | SubstackConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Threads | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Youtube | SubscribeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bigfoot the Cow KIllerIn 2010, a man's family moved to Colorado, where they discovered a remote campsite on the border of the Rawah Wilderness in northern Colorado—an isolated, high-elevation spot accessible only by high-clearance vehicle. In spring 2019, he and his son scouted the site and spent four days there. They enjoyed the scenery and wildlife but found unexplained items: torn pajamas on the ground and a backpack wedged 50 feet up in a tree. In 2020, the full family returned. One night, dressed in Viking reenactment gear and celebrating late around the fire, they blew a war horn. Shortly after, a terrifying guttural scream echoed from the ridge behind camp, sounding like a woman being attacked. It repeated minutes later, followed by coyotes yipping and then abruptly yelping in pain before going silent, as if something attacked them. The next morning, they followed a foul odor and discovered a recently dead cow with no predator marks—except its entire lower jaw and tongue were missing. That evening they listened to Bigfoot-related podcasts and set up defensive perimeter traps and firearms (the narrator, a combat veteran, always camps heavily armed). The following morning, while checking the area, the narrator and his son witnessed a seven-foot-tall, dark-haired bipedal creature with a conical head, prominent brow, and human-like but larger hands dragging the decaying cow carcass into the woods. They soon had to evacuate due to the approaching Cameron Peak wildfire but later returned multiple times. They located the cow's scattered remains, recovered its ear tag as a keepsake, and began leaving small gifts (apples, candy, marbles, Bigfoot figurines) at the site, which consistently disappeared.The experience convinced the family that Bigfoot may be real. The narrator, who grew up hearing Sasquatch stories near Yosemite, remains cautious and armed on trips but now camps in hopes of another peaceful observation rather than confrontation.Join my Supporters Club for $4.99 per month for exclusive stories:https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/what-if-it-s-true-podcast--5445587/support

Who’s got the SPOOKIEST Pumpkin?! Who’s got the DANCINGEST Bees?! Let’s find out TOGETHER! And, if you want to help out in the Twin Cities during this time of strife, visit linktr.ee/mplsmutualaid

As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we recall the key principles that form America's foundation. Of these, the “certain unalienable rights” the Founders declared are “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” Yet, the Founders saw “liberty” not as the freedom to do whatever one wants—but rather the freedom to act and live in ways that promote virtue. How does this understanding of liberty apply to our classrooms? How does civil discourse and viewpoint diversity create space for students to be free to act in ways that promote virtue? In this webinar, we'll explore how the Founding concept of liberty, combined with principles of civil discourse, can guide discussions of challenging topics. Topics that will be covered include the problem of self‐​censorship and the challenges of teaching content that some might find controversial, such as Mark Twain's The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. We'll examine ways that educators can create spaces for students to courageously discuss the challenging ideas they encounter in a variety of texts (both historical and literary) while embodying the true spirit of liberty that the Founders envisioned. This webinar will consist of three parts. The first part will be a 30‐​minute discussion between Kobi Nelson and three exemplary Sphere alumni: Nancy Wickham, Shannon Edwards, and Megan Thompson. The second part will include a Q&A with participants, and the third part will dive into resources that teachers can use to facilitate healthy conversation habits that honor the principles of liberty, civil discourse, and viewpoint diversity. All who attend will leave with practical, tangible tools that can be applied in classrooms, and educators will be empowered to create democratic spaces that honor free speech in their classrooms and schools. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the Circle of the World Podcast! Join Harrison, George, and Jeffrey as we continue our coverage of Joe Abercrombie's First Law series! For this season, we read through Sharp Ends! In today's episode we will be covering Yesterday, Near A Village Called Barden!Meme of the week: https://www.reddit.com/r/HouseOfTheMemeMaker/comments/1qa0icj/memeing_every_chapter_sharp_ends_yesterday_near_a/Leave us a commentSupport the show

In this episode, Justin and Rob discuss the ethical obligations of Scientific Literature with Zac Loughman.Who will win? You decide. Reptile Fight Club!Follow Justin Julander @Australian Addiction Reptiles-http://www.australianaddiction.comIGFollow Rob @ https://www.instagram.com/highplainsherp/Follow MPR Network @FB: https://www.facebook.com/MoreliaPythonRadioIG: https://www.instagram.com/mpr_network/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtrEaKcyN8KvC3pqaiYc0RQSwag store: https://teespring.com/stores/mprnetworkPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/moreliapythonradio

Gen 46:1-47:31, Matt 15:1-28, Ps 19:1-14, Pr 4:14-19

Did you know top students in Texas know the Bible  even if they are not Religious?Top students often excel due to their understanding of cultural references, and Texas teacher Tamara Berkman says a surprising factor behind their success is knowledge of the Bible. Even non-religious students benefit from recognizing biblical themes, allusions, and historical context, which enhances their performance in literature, history, and critical thinking, according to Berkman. She created the “Learn the Whole Bible ASAP” curriculum to help students quickly grasp the Bible's storyline in just twenty short lessons to improve their understanding of literature, identify cultural references, and sharpen critical thinking skills is key for academic success. Knowing the Bible enhances students' critical thinking and academic performance, she says. https://www.teachthewholebible.org/product/ttwb-student/http://www.yourlotandparcel.org

Faedah Totah is a walker. So when she traveled to Damascus, Syria in the 2000's, she ditched the car and sauntered the streets to really take in the beauty of the old city. She soon came across a neighborhood that sparked her forthcoming book, Palestinian Refugees in the Old City of Damascus. Also: The report card is out for America's stormwater infrastructure. Spoiler alert: it's a grade that probably would've gotten us all grounded by our parents. Tanjina Afrin explains where America is failing and why effective stormwater management is such an important but largely forgotten public amenity. Later in the show: As the Cold War drew to a close in the 1990s, the Hispanic Caribbean was rocked by what Elena Valdez calls “crisis moments.” She says these “crisis moments” sparked important changes in representations of sexuality and gender in the public sphere - especially in the urban spaces of Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico.

Gen 44:1-45:28, Matt 14:13-36, Ps 18:35-50, Pr 4:11-13

On today's poddy, feed your mind with a 5-boosie book. Follow The Big Show on Instagram Subscribe to the podcast now on iHeartRadio, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts!Featuring Jason Hoyte, Mike Minogue, and Keyzie, "The Big Show" drive you home weekdays from 4pm on Radio Hauraki.Providing a hilarious escape from reality for those ‘backbone’ New Zealanders with plenty of laughs and out-the-gate yarns.Download the full podcast here:iHeartRadioAppleSpotifySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on The Stacks, we are joined by Associated Press reporter Mary Clare Jalonick to discuss her new book Storm at the Capitol: An Oral History of January 6th. In this book, Mary Clare offers a comprehensive retelling of the January 6th insurrection through firsthand accounts from the rioters, police officers, journalists (including herself), and lawmakers who were forced to flee the violence. We talk about why she frames this as an oral history, how she captured the violence of that day, and how the narrative surrounding January 6th has evolved over the past five years.The Stacks Book Club pick for January is Girl on Girl: How Pop Culture Turned a Generation of Women Against Themselves by Sophie Gilbert. We will discuss the book on Wednesday, January 28th, with Christiana Mbakwe Medina.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks website: https://www.thestackspodcast.com/2026/1/21/ep-408-mary-clare-jalonickConnect with Mary Clare: WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Threads | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Youtube | SubscribeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mad Trapper Sheslay Free Mike - Kóoshdaa KáaJoin my Supporters Club for $4.99 per month for exclusive stories:https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/what-if-it-s-true-podcast--5445587/support

Send us a textIn this episode, I chat with Lovestruck Books owner and founder, Rachel Kantor. Rachel traces the thread from her years in classrooms and nonprofits to the moment she opened a shop that treats joy and access as serious cultural work. We dig into what it means to put the world's best-selling fiction genre at the center of an academic neighborhood and how that choice reshapes conversations about taste, representation, and who gets shelf space.Rachel shares the tightrope walk between mission and margin, revealing how a cafe and wine bar aren't add-ons but engines of community: inviting readers to linger, meet, and return. We explore the store's 75% romance focus alongside kids' books, general fiction, and targeted nonfiction—from memoir to sexual health and wellness—plus a slate of events that range from bestselling rom-com authors to a sold-out pelvic floor workshop and visits from award-shortlisted historians. The mix is intentional, reflecting a wide and lively demographic: students, professors, longtime locals, tourists, and readers across the gender and orientation spectrum.Representation sits at the center. We talk about the ongoing rise of queer love stories, poly relationships, Indigenous and BIPOC authors, and why fighting book bans and expanding access matter for a healthier literary ecosystem. Rachel offers gateway picks for skeptics, like Alice Hoffman's Practical Magic, alongside current obsessions in sports romance and romantasy, and she explains how recognition, like a member-voted Best Bookstore award, signals that community is choosing this model of joyful, inclusive culture. Join us to rethink what a bookstore can be, and to leave with a stronger, more curious TBR.If this conversation sparked a new read or reminded you why you love indie bookshops, tap follow, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—your support helps more listeners find the show.Support the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Get snuggled in tight – the Book Squad is here to discuss How to Sleep at Night by Elizabeth Harris. We talk about mis-matched political relationships, queerness and performance, emotional honesty vs. just being an a**hole, and sympathetic characters (or lack thereof). Join us on February 3rd for an Othersode about Return of the Living Dead, featuring special guest Lindsay Currie, author of X Marks the Haunt. Then read along for our next Bookpisode on Sunbirth by An Yu on February 17th!TOC:30– SUSAN'S BACK!14:24– How to Sleep at Night book intro18:30– At what point does loyalty become complicity?33:50–Performance and queerness47:19–Is there anyone we empathize with?59:45–Could you date a republican?1:16:00– Ratings1:21:00– What's up next? 

Anmarie, Diane, and Myra join Cara to talk about belonging, place, and children's literature. To learn more about Behind the Book check out: https://www.behindthebook.org/To learn more about Dr. Diane's work check out: https://www.drdianeadventures.com/

Gen 42:18-43:34, Matt 13:47-14:12, Ps 18:16-34, Pr 4:7-10

"The Great Instauration" by Francis Bacon w/Brian Bagley & Jesan Sorrells---00:00 "Leadership Lessons: Knowledge and Strength"07:03 Francis Bacon: Philosophy and Legacy11:26 Francis Bacon: Enigmatic Historical Figure20:25 "Voltaire's Shock at Christian Roots"27:48 "Chaos, Society, and Leadership Insights."33:46 "Turner's Civil War Film Flop."38:34 "Idols of Human Perception."42:11 "Searching for the Correct Religion."51:02 Religious Diversity and National Challenges54:33 "Debating Theology and Division."01:02:29 "Unity in Christian Essentials."01:08:36 "Idols of the Theater."01:09:52 "Biases Shape Human Understanding."01:14:56 "Tearing Down Modern Idols."01:20:08 "Humility in Pursuit of Truth."01:28:09 "Restoration Begins Within Ourselves."---Opening and closing themes composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out HSCT Publishing at: https://www.hsctpublishing.com/.Check out LeadingKeys at: https://www.leadingkeys.com/Check out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/Contact HSCT for more information at 1-833-216-8296 to schedule a full DEMO of LeadingKeys with one of our team members.---Leadership ToolBox website: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/.Leadership ToolBox LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ldrshptlbx/.Leadership ToolBox YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadershiptoolbox/videosLeadership ToolBox Twitter: https://twitter.com/ldrshptlbx.Leadership ToolBox IG: https://www.instagram.com/leadershiptoolboxus/.Leadership ToolBox FB: https://www.facebook.com/LdrshpTl

Author Marshall Silverman discusses his latest book, My Dog Red as well as his other works. Purchase his books through your local bookstore, on Amazon, or follow the link for his author page.January 25 marks the 10 year anniversary of Rosie Fund. We're looking forward to another year of sponsoring and promoting senior and harder-to-adopt dogs. Our goal is to continue to expand our reach and work with more shelters and rescue groups. Your support is what makes all this possible! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we'll be kicking off a 10 for 10 fundraiser. You can donate through RosieFund.org, Venmo, Facebook and Instagram. Last year was our all-time high as we filmed, promoted, and sponsored 79 dogs at KC Pet Project, Always & Furever, Mid-America Bully Breed Rescue, PAWS KC, and Pawsitive TailsSince our founding in 2016, Rosie Fund has sponsored 355 dogs and filmed and promoted 599 dogs. Thanks to you and our volunteers, almost $32,000 of donations have provided Rosie Life Starter Kits, helped with adoption fees, and covered medical expenses for dogs that found their forever home.Music for this episode is provided by alternative string duo, The Wires. Visit them at TheWires.info. Learn fiddle and cello-fiddle online — even if you've never played before — from Laurel Morgan Parks and Sascha Groshang at FiddleLife.com.Make a donation at RosieFund.org or through our Facebook page. You can contribute by making a purchase from the store on our website or buying a t-shirt at Bonfire.com. Also check out our page on BarkYours, the online mall with gifts for people who love their dogs. Another wonderful way to support Rosie Fund and create beautiful artwork of a beloved pet is to book a session with Claire Shelley at BLegendaryPhotographyCreations.com. For every referral from Rosie Fund, Claire will donate $100 or 10% of the order total, whichever is greater. This does not apply to designated fundraising campaigns like the Pooch Playoffs that already support charities or to the gift vouchers that Claire donates to the Rosie Life Starter Kits.Rosie Fund online:RosieFund.orgFacebook.com/rosiefundInstagram.com/rosiefundYouTube.com/rosiefund

A library amuck! The nature of tragedy contemplated! A legal strategy formulated! Rubble and debris of both the construction and personal types. Plus, brain storms from Clyde's legal team and, potentially, from Clyde himself. The stakes could not be higher as our hero's new counsel lays the foundation for a defense.Support Obscure!Read Michael's substackFollow Michael on TwitterFollow Michael on InstagramSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Navajo Connection with SasquatchIn 1999, after moving to Denver, Colorado, a Navajo man, Nightwolf, surprised his brother, whom he hadn't seen in seven years. The brothers, both Navajo, decided to drive up Berthoud Pass to catch up. While enjoying the mountain scenery, they spotted a large, black, furry figure that they first mistook for a bear. Nightwolf pulled over, tossed an apple from their bag toward the creature (accidentally hitting it), and quickly realized it was not a bear but Bigfoot. Drawing on Navajo stories about the creature, he felt a mix of fear and awe. The being stood about nine feet tall, with a massive head, no visible neck, a barrel-like chest, thick leathery skin, and alert, intelligent eyes. Despite his brother's frantic warnings that it would kill him, Nightwolf chose to show respect by calmly approaching with the bag of apples. He knelt, bowed his head to expose his neck in submission, and placed the bag in front of the creature. It briefly grasped his neck—leaving an oily residue—then released him, took the apples, and walked away. Shaken but deeply honored by the encounter, Nightwolf rejoined his brother in the car. He describes the experience as life-changing and ends with blessings to the reader.Join my Supporters Club for $4.99 per month for exclusive stories:https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/what-if-it-s-true-podcast--5445587/support

Welcome to an another great episode from the archives of The Literary Life podcast! This week we bring you an interview our hosts had with special guest Dr. Vigen Guroian, retired professor of Religious Studies and Orthodox Christianity at the University of Virginia and author of twelve book and numerous scholarly articles. Angelina Stanford and Thomas Banks discuss with Dr. Guroian the new edition of his book, Tending the Heart of Virtue. They start out talking about how the first edition of this book came about, which leads into a discussion about the current approach to fairy tales and children's stories in both academia and the publishing industry.  Other topics of conversation include the problem with reducing stories down to a moral, story as mystery, the place of fairy tales in classical education, and the Biblical literacy of the authors of fairy tales. Dr. Guroian also shares his thoughts on people like John Ruskin and Rudyard Kipling. Finally, he shares some suggestions on finding good editions of fairy tale collections.  There is still time to register for this year's upcoming annual Literary Life Online Conference, happening January 23-30, 2026, "The Letter Killeth, but the Spirit Quickeneth: Reading Like a Human". Our speakers will be Dr. Jason Baxter, Jenn Rogers, Dr. Anne Phillips, and, of course, Angelina Stanford and Thomas Banks. To view the full show notes, including book links, visit https://theliterary.life/312. 

In this episode, special co-host Diana Yáñez and Sweet Miche explore the concept of belonging, not just to each other, but to all of existence. From the linguistic wisdom of the Aymara people to the radical call of liberation theology and the hard work of healing Quaker involvement in Indian Boarding Schools, we're asking what might happen to our faith if we start living from the "We" instead of the "I"? Jiwasa: The Communal We with Rubén Hilari Quispe  Rubén, an Aymara Quaker and linguist, introduces us to jiwasa – a concept of "we-ness" that includes humans, the environment, and even the objects around us. He invites us to sit with the unsettled feeling of language that doesn't center the individual. Read Rubén's article, "Jiwasa, the Communal We" in the January 2026 issue of Friends Journal or at FriendsJournal.org. You can hear an extended interview in Spanish with English subtitles at the Friends Journal YouTube page.  Liberation Theology and the Inner Light with Renzo Carranza  Guatemalan Friend Renzo Carranza explores how the Quaker Inner Light intersects with the radical tradition of liberation theology. Together, they form a call to action: to reinterpret the gospels from the perspective of the marginalized and transform society. Watch the full QuakerSpeak video, “Transforming the SPIRIT: Liberation Theology and the Inner Light” at QuakerSpeak.com. Collective Relationship and Boarding Schools with Rachel Overstreet  Rachel Overstreet (Choctaw Nation) discusses the history of Quaker Indian boarding schools. She suggests that the way forward isn't through individual guilt, but through collective relationship. Read Rachel's article, “Speaking with Friends About Indian Boarding Schools” in the January 2026 issue of Friends Journal or at FriendsJournal.org. Rachel writes the Native American Legislative Update, a monthly newsletter on the most important developments on Capitol Hill related to Indian Country. You can also write your Congressperson to cosponsor and pass the Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies Act. Find out more at fcnl.org/issues/native-americans. Book Review: Chooch Helped  Katie Green reviews a charming children's book by Andrea L. Rogers and Rebecca Lee Koons (Cherokee Nation) that celebrates present-day Cherokee family life and love. Read Katie's review of Chooch Helped in the January 2026 issue or at FriendsJournal.org. Recommended Resources by Indigenous Creators Jonny Appleseed (Novel) By Joshua Whitehead (they/them) A beautifully fragmented story about a Two-Spirit, Indigiqueer person navigating life in Winnipeg. The title ironically reclaims a settler-colonial myth to tell a raw story of modern Indigenous identity. Coyote & Crow (Tabletop Role-Playing Game) Created by a team of over 30 Indigenous creators Set in an "Indigenous Futurism" world where the Americas were never colonized. This RPG focuses on community, advanced technology, and spirits in a world where history took a different path. Drama & Performance The Thanksgiving Play (Play) By Larissa FastHorse (Sicangu Lakota Nation) A biting, hilarious satire that made history as the first play by a Native American woman on Broadway. It follows four well-meaning white people trying to create a "politically correct" Thanksgiving play for a school. The Rez Sisters (Play) By Tomson Highway (Cree) A modern classic of Indigenous drama. It tells the story of seven women on a reserve who dream of winning "the biggest bingo game in the world." It's a powerful blend of humor, tragedy, and the supernatural. Mary Kathryn Nagle: Land Sovereignty and Indigenous Women's Rights (Podcast/Interview) Produced by Peterson Toscano for Citizens Climate Radio A deep-dive conversation with Cherokee playwright and attorney Mary Kathryn Nagle. She discusses how her plays, like Sovereignty and Manahatta, serve as "living law," using the stage to advocate for tribal jurisdiction and the safety of Indigenous women. Music & Audio Come and Get Your Love (Song) By Redbone The 1974 hit that made Redbone the first Native American band to reach the top five on the Billboard Hot 100. Forged (Podcast) CBC Listen / Host: Adrian Stimson A gripping series exploring a massive art fraud ring involving the works of Norval Morrisseau, the "Picasso of the North." Literature & Thought Sacred Instructions (Book) By Sherri Mitchell (Weh'na Ha'mu Kwasset) A roadmap for "spirit-based change" drawing on Penobscot ancestral wisdom to address modern crises. Dr. Lyla June Johnston (Scholar & Musician) A Diné (Navajo) and Cheyenne artist whose work blends hip-hop with traditional acoustics and ecological activism. Digital Culture & Media Trixie Mattel: Root Maintenance (Video/Q&A) The world-famous drag queen discusses her biracial Ojibwe heritage and navigating identity in the public eye. Rez Ball (Film) Produced by LeBron James and Sterlin Harjo A 2024 film following a Navajo high school basketball team, capturing the unique, fast-paced style of "Rezball." Next Month's Question A central part of Quakerism is our commitment to peace. But that doesn't mean we should avoid conflict. In fact, it means we have a specific responsibility to it. What is a small practice that brings you a measure of peace or stability in the midst of conflict and turmoil? Leave a voice memo at 317-QUAKERS (317-782-5377) Email us at podcast@friendsjournal.org Sponsors Quakers Today is a project of Friends Publishing Corporation. This season is sponsored by: Friends Fiduciary: Ethical investing through a Quaker lens. Learn more at FriendsFiduciary.org. American Friends Service Committee (AFSC): Challenging injustice and building peace. Visit afsc.org. For a full transcript, visit QuakersToday.org.

Poems from Philadelphian writers Joy Gorson, Beth Brown Preston, and Bill Buskirk.Support the show

Adam Morgan discusses his new biography, A Danger to the Minds of Young Girls: Margaret C. Anderson, Book Bans, and the Fight to Modernize Literature (Atria/One Signal Publishers, 2025).  Morgan's book is the first biography solely devoted to Margaret C. Anderson, the founder of the avant-garde literary and arts magazine The Little Review, which she began publishing in Chicago in 1914. The influential Little Review showcased many famous writers of its time, including T.S. Eliot, Gertrude Stein, Hart Crane, Sherwood Anderson and Hemingway. But it would become most celebrated—and notorious—for being the first publisher of James Joyce's towering modernist novel Ulysses. After putting out nearly two thirds of the novel in serial installments from 1918 through 1920, Margaret Anderson and her romantic partner and co-editor Jane Heap were charged and found guilty of obscenity under the Comstock Act for distributing Joyce's sexually frank passages through the mail. They were deemed "a danger to the minds of young girls."   A Danger to the Minds of Young Girls tells a very compelling story of an iconoclastic woman who was determined to make a space for difficult and challenging art and whose efforts changed forever what could be addressed in literature and what could be considered beautiful.  Adam Morgan is himself the founder of the indispensable Chicago Review of Books, and a great promoter of the literature of our city. We are especially thrilled to be having this conversation now, as we just began a six-month discussion group on Ulysses at our library. Listen to hear why Ulysses wouldn't exist without Chicago and how understanding Anderson's life helps reveal the true stakes, triumphs, and world-changing "dangers" of James Joyce's masterpiece.  Adam Morgan is a culture journalist and critic who lives near Chapel Hill, North Carolina. His writing has appeared in Esquire, WIRED, Scientific American, Inverse, The Paris Review, Los Angeles Times, and elsewhere. He writes a newsletter about forthcoming books called The Frontlist. He is the founding editor of the Chicago Review of Books, the Southern Review of Books, and the Chicago Literary Archive.  You can check out A Danger to the Minds of Young Girls in our Podcast Collection, featuring books and other materials by past guests of the show. Find out more about Adam Morgan at his website.  We hope you enjoy our 70th interview episode! ​​Each month (or so), we release an episode featuring a conversation with an author, artist, or other notable guests from Chicagoland or around the world. Learn more about the podcast on our podcast page. You can listen to all of our episodes in the player below or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts. We welcome your comments and feedback—please send to podcast@deerfieldlibrary.org.  

Gen 41:17-42:17, Matt 13:24-46, Ps 18:1-15, Pr 4:1-6

Leaders restoration has more meaning behind it than as a synonym for gentrification. ---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!---Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Are you into trivia? Calling all connoisseurs of the cryptic to the only quiz played live, all around Australia. Join the host of Nightlife Philip Clark for The Mighty Challenge!   

Sometimes you just want to get together with your friend and enlist prisoners of war into putting on a production of Euripides in the quarry, am I right? This is a broadly relatable thing that lots of people have thought about doing. Right? Right??This episode is sponsored by Squarespace. Go to squarespace.com/overdue for 10% of your first purchase of a website or domain.Head to MarleySpoon.com/offer/overdue for 45% off your first order and free delivery!Our theme music was composed by Nick Lerangis.Follow @overduepod on Instagram and BlueskyAdvertise on OverdueSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If I asked the question “Does literature matter?”, I suspect most people would quickly answer “Yes.” But if I asked “Why does literature matter?”, I think most of us would stutter in response. We probably don't know how to give an account of the importance of literature, even if we have a sense that it certainly does matter. Jason Baxter helps us respond to that second, harder question. His book, Why Literature Still Matters is both accessible and profound. In the span of some 80 pages, he gives us ways to not just think and speak about the importance of literature, but also to feel and remember why literature matters.For some additional conversations with Jason on our show, please see the show notes for links to an episode about Dante, and a second to an episode about C. S. Lewis in relation to Dante and other Medieval thinkers.Follow-up Resources:Why Literature Still Matters by Jason Baxter“The Heartbeat of Dante's Comedy, with Jason Baxter,” podcast episode via Church Life Today“C.S. Lewis from Dante and the Medieval World, with Jason Baxter,” podcast episode via Church Life TodayChurch Life Today is a partnership between the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame and OSV Podcasts from Our Sunday Visitor. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Gen 39:1-41:16, Matt 12:46-13:23, Ps 17:1-15, Pr 3:33-35

Following his resurrection in Luke 24 Jesus startles his disciples by appearing among them when they are talking about him. By v. 41, properly understood, they are still not believing. Luke's implicit argument about what finally brings them to faith requires close attention to the Greek wording and clues as to discourse structure. Dr. J. D. Atkins is Associate Professor of New Testament Language and Literature, and Chair of the Department of Biblical and Exegetical Studies at Tyndale Theological Seminary. Among other things he has authored, The Doubt of the Apostles and the Resurrection Faith of the Early Church. He is working (coauthor) on Forty Questions on the Gospels (Kregel). In this episode, Dr. J. D. Atkins concludes his discussion of Luke 24:41-45. Check out related programs at Wheaton College:  B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3Z9V1kg M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4jzKnwy

Secret Sasquatch Research Facility ReportThe report describes a classified U.S. military research program, initiated in 1987 after a Sasquatch was killed by a train, that has expanded over 37 years to involve over 100 personnel in a heavily secured underground facility inside a mountain. Specimens and Facility107 cadavers (various ages and subspecies) stored in freezers.13 living specimens, acquired at significant human cost (multiple helicopter crashes attributed to capture attempts, officially covered as training accidents).Access requires passing three checkpoints; an elevator descends over 100 feet to the research levels.Key Biological FindingsAnatomy: Larger and denser than humans, with two extra ribs forming natural armor capable of stopping 30-caliber rounds; extremely dense skull (vulnerable only via eye socket or base); consumes entire prey (including bones) every 3–4 days.Genetics: 48 chromosomes (like apes, two more than humans), indicating not a human subspecies.Camouflage: Generate electric current through hair to reflect surroundings (electric camouflage); believed to also power night vision (glowing eyes when active).Vocalization: Three sets of vocal cords produce infrasound. Males induce fear, anxiety, confusion, or temporary memory loss; females produce calming/confusing effects that pacify prey.Communication: Use clicks, grunts, hand signals, and infrasound; live in hierarchical groups led by one alpha male.Social and Reproductive BehaviorStrict hierarchy; adult males fight to the death if females are present but can coexist without females.Females breed only after prior offspring reach 3–4 years; usually single births; young cling to mother for first year.Different responses to staff: calm and accepting with female staff; cautious or aggressive with male, uniformed, or armed staff.Female specimens have projected vivid mental images (“waking dreams”) to female staff (capture, childbirth, food preferences); no such events with male staff.Tracking and ReleaseFour non-aggressive specimens released with GPS implants.Tracked individuals follow long migration routes (e.g., eastern Texas to northern Ontario) or move 40–50 miles per night, staying weeks in one area.Signals sometimes vanish for days, suggesting underground cave travel.Distinct musks emitted for breeding, threat, or other contexts.The program prioritizes military applications (survivability, camouflage, infrasound weapons) and maintains extreme secrecy to prevent technology theft or public disruption.Join my Supporters Club for $4.99 per month for exclusive stories:https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/what-if-it-s-true-podcast--5445587/support

Famed astrophysicist and science communicator Adam Frank shares his sense of wonder and humor in a live conversation about his excellent new book, “The Little Book of Aliens.” Join Adam and host Mat Kaplan as they explore the origin of life, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, and whether all those UFO sightings are worthy of deeper investigation. Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/book-club-adam-frankSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt Shy joins us again with a presentation on another kind of legendary giant: dragons. We look at ancient depictions of dragons and giant serpents across the world from Sumer to China. We talk about the significance of the Ouroboros, about ancient artifacts depicting dragons and serpents, about the many ancient gods who were depicted as serpents, or had serpent or dragon-like aspects.   Support us through Patreon and get special episodes, early access, and bumper tunes! You can also donate directly through Paypal. Thank you all so much for the support! https://www.brothersoftheserpent.com/support   Chapters 00:00 Welcome to the Brothers of the Serpent Podcast 06:02 New Year Reflections and Podcast Plans 12:06 Ancient Chinese Dragon Depictions 18:05 The Ouroboros and Its Significance 24:04 The Candle Dragon and Protruding Eyes 29:00 Concluding Thoughts on Historical Artifacts 34:11 Cosmic Serpents and Their Symbolism 37:02 Indra and the Slaying of Vritra 39:33 Agency of Nature: Serpents and Spirits 42:05 Cognitive Dissonance and Perception 44:29 Shesha: The Cosmic Serpent 46:40 Tiamat: The Dragon of Chaos 49:10 Feathered Serpents in Mesoamerica 58:19 Quetzalcoatl and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent 01:00:22 The Serpent as a Symbol of Wisdom 01:03:07 Psychedelics and Altered States of Consciousness 01:06:56 Mythical Creatures and Their Symbolism 01:09:49 Historical Accounts of Serpents and Dragons 01:12:41 Pterosaurs and Native American Legends 01:15:34 The Evolution of Dragon Myths 01:18:31 The Serpent in Religious Texts 01:21:52 Epic Tales of Heroism and Dragons 01:32:08 The Value of Knowledge 01:32:59 Mythical Creatures in Gaming and Literature 01:34:03 The World Serpent and Its Symbolism 01:36:05 Arthurian Legends and Their Origins 01:36:57 Saints and Dragons: A Historical Perspective 01:37:56 The Legend of Loch Ness 01:39:11 St. George and the Dragon 01:39:56 Japanese Dragons and Their Significance 01:41:58 The Concept of Dragons in Civilization 01:44:08 The Role of Dragons in Different Cultures 01:47:01 Slavic Dragons and Their Mythology 01:49:11 The Connection Between Dragons and Kingship 01:51:01 Dragons as Ancient Demons 01:53:02 The Serpent as a Symbol of Knowledge

Today on The Stacks, we're joined by award-winning journalist and New York Times best-selling author, Jacob Soboroff, to discuss his newest book, Firestorm: The Great Los Angeles Fires and America's New Age of Disaster. In this book, Jacob takes us to the frontlines of the January 2025 L.A. Fires to offer a deeply personal, firsthand account of one of the most destructive fires in the city's history. We discuss why he chose to write about what he calls “the fires of the future,” how his childhood in the Palisades shaped his reporting, and the politics behind this environmental disaster.The Stacks Book Club pick for January is Girl on Girl: How Pop Culture Turned a Generation of Women Against Themselves by Sophie Gilbert. We will discuss the book on Wednesday, January 28th, with Christiana Mbakwe Medina returning as our guest.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks website: https://www.thestackspodcast.com/2026/1/14/ep-407-jacob-soboroffConnect with Jacob: Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | Website | TikTok | FacebookConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Threads | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Youtube | SubscribeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.