Best Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities Podcasts (2025)

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Colin Camerer: Econ's Neurovisionary 45:58

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4d ago45:58

45:58

An absorbing conversation featuring Colin Camerer (CASBS fellow, 1997-98), among the world's most accomplished scholars in both behavioral economics and neuroeconomics, with economist Stephanie Wang (2024-25). Camerer discusses his groundbreaking work on the neuroeconomics of self-control and habit formation; offers insights on generating ideas for…

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Binaural Beats & Brainwaves: Inside the Monroe Institute’s Consciousness Technology | RC 92 58:54

13d ago58:54

58:54

Today, we’re exploring the frontier of human consciousness with Paul Citarella, Chief Technology Officer at The Monroe Institute—a pioneering organization dedicated to understanding the full spectrum of human awareness. We’ll unpack the science, technology, and philosophy behind the Institute’s groundbreaking work: from Hemi-Sync® and binaural beat…

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Are We Living in a Video Game? Computer Scientist Rizwan Virk Explores the Simulation Hypothesis | RC 91 1:13:11

26d ago1:13:11

1:13:11

Simulation Hypothesis—the idea that our entire reality might be a sophisticated simulation, much like a video game. Rizwan Virk—or Riz-Won—a true pioneer whose career has spanned computer science at MIT, pioneering work in the video game industry, successful ventures as a startup founder and venture capitalist, professor, and author of The Simulati…

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Exploring Lucid Dreams: Dr. Garret Yount on the Science of Consciousness | RC 90 43:22

1M ago43:22

43:22

What if you could wake up inside your own dreams—and influence them? That’s the world of lucid dreaming—a state where you’re not only aware you’re dreaming, but can actively shape the dream itself. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Garret Yount, PhD, a scientist at the Institute of Noetic Sciences (IONS), whose research explores consciousness, healing, an…

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3I/ATLAS: Avi Loeb Warns Stock Market Could Crash in November if Object Is Alien | RC 89 46:26

2M ago46:26

46:26

What would you do if I told you an alien spacecraft might be headed toward Earth this November? Sounds like science fiction, right? But according to Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb, it could be a scientific fact. Discovered by the ATLAS telescope in Hawaii, 3I/ATLAS is a newly detected interstellar object—only the third ever spotted—zipping through…

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Race, Representation & the UAP Mystery with Dr. Stephen C. Finley | RC 88 56:48

2M ago56:48

56:48

Why is the UAP community lacking diversity? Race, representation, and the unexplored dimensions of the UAP conversation are our focus in today’s podcast. Our guest is Dr. Stephen C. Finley, Professor and Chair of African & African American Studies at Louisiana State University — a scholar whose work bridges religion, race, philosophy, and the paran…

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Grand Master of the Sociology of Immigration & Assimilation 54:52

3M ago54:52

54:52

For decades, Alejandro Portes (CASBS fellow 1980-81) has been among our most distinguished scholars elucidating the causes and consequences of immigration and assimilation. René D. Flores (CASBS fellow 2023-24) engages Portes in a conversation spanning large swaths of Portes's formidable intellectual biography, including his personal journey from C…

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Neuralink Anticipates Your Thoughts: Noland Arbaugh Says Brain Chip Is 'Much Bigger Deal Than I Thought | RC 87 1:08:42

3M ago1:08:42

1:08:42

Today on the show, we’re joined by Noland Arbaugh — the first publicly known human to receive Neuralink’s brain-computer interface implant. After a diving accident left him paralyzed from the shoulders down, Noland volunteered for one of the most experimental technologies of our time. Now, he can control digital devices with his mind. We’ll explore…

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Jacques Vallée: UAPs & the United Nations - A Global Call Ignored? | RC 86 59:30

4M ago59:30

59:30

In 1978, Grenada’s Prime Minister Sir Eric Gairy brought UFOs to the floor of the United Nations—backed by researchers like Jacques Vallée and J. Allen Hynek. Their goal? A global investigation into UAPs. However, despite their efforts, the UN dismissed the initiative, citing political and scientific resistance. Today, as interest in UAPs surges wo…

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Apple’s and Synchron New Mind-Control Tech Feels Straight Out of Sci-Fi | RC 85 29:10

4M ago29:10

29:10

We’re diving deep into a bold new frontier at the intersection of brain-computer interfaces and consumer tech. Seriously. Joining us is Kurt Haggstrom, Chief Commercial Officer at Synchron, the pioneering company behind the FDA-authorized Stentrode—a brain-computer interface that’s redefining accessibility. With Apple now collaborating with Synchro…

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AARO, SCU & Skywatchers Disagree on UAP Shapes and Why Media Dismisses UFOs/Marik von Rennenkampff | RC 84 1:05:41

5M ago1:05:41

1:05:41

Today, we’re joined by Marik von Rennenkampff, a former U.S. Department of Defense official and State Department analyst. We explore the science behind UAP classification, why shape data varies across agencies, and what those inconsistencies might reveal. Marik shares insights on national security implications, the growing role of private industry …

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Revd Professor David Wilkinson on Faith, Science, and the Evolving Cosmos of Culture | RC 83 1:01:59

5M ago1:01:59

1:01:59

Guest Revd Professor David Wilkinson stands at a fascinating crossroads shared by many scientists and theologians. Today, we explore the intersections of religion, astrophysics, and culture. As modern science moves beyond strict materialism into questions of meaning, consciousness, and even the metaphysical, faith and science are no longer at odds—…

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Can AI Take Common Sense from a Baby? 37:17

5M ago37:17

37:17

Generative AI tools built on large language models are increasingly "intelligent" yet lack a baby's common sense – the ability to non-verbally generalize to novel situations without additional training. What can developmental science contribute to AI? Tech journalist and former CASBS fellow John Markoff chats with 2023-24 CASBS fellow David Moore, …

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Science & the Universe: Ted Peters on Theology, the Pope, and the Nature of Non-Human Life | RC 82 55:51

6M ago55:51

55:51

In today’s episode, we explore the intersection of science, faith, and the universe with theologian and professor Ted Peters. As a leading voice on religion and the unknown, he examines how theological perspectives evolve alongside scientific discoveries—especially in the context of non-human intelligence. From the Vatican’s stance on extraterrestr…

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Make the Atmosphere Great Again 57:26

7M ago57:26

57:26

Given deeply polarized domestic politics and insufficient international commitment to the Paris Accord, can we reduce greenhouse gas emissions and avert some of the worst effects of climate change before it's too late? It's an elemental question that warrants despair, yes, but plenty of hope too. Political scientist Leigh Raymond, a 2021-22 CASBS f…

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UFO Hackers: Cracking the Code on UAP Data with Thom Hastings | RC 81 58:56

7M ago58:56

58:56

UFO Hackers? In this episode, we take a look into the world of UAP and cutting-edge technology with guest Thom Hastings, a Senior Security Engineer. Thom brings a unique perspective on the rapidly evolving field of UAP research, offering insights into the intersections of hacking and data analysis. Join us as we get rebelliously curious. Watch the …

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Richard Doty on Disinformation, Paul Bennewitz, and UAP Whistleblower Fallout | RC 80 2:01:07

7M ago2:01:07

2:01:07

We dive into the story of Richard Doty—a former U.S. Air Force counterintelligence officer infamous in UFO circles. Doty played a key role in a psychological operation against Paul Bennewitz, a businessman and UFO researcher. In the 1980s, Bennewitz believed he had uncovered evidence of extraterrestrial activity near Kirtland Air Force Base. Instea…

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Anthropology at the Borderlands of Experience 57:45

7M ago57:45

57:45

Two-time CASBS fellow and renowned anthropologist Tanya Luhrmann discusses her past and current work as an anthropologist of the mind, both in religious and psychological contexts, in conversation with 2023-24 CASBS fellow Erica Robles-Anderson. Luhrmann's award-winning work investigates visions, voices, psychosis, the supernatural, and other unusu…

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Can Humanity Evolve to Understand UAP, or Are We Missing the Tools? Iya Whiteley PH.D | RC 79 55:04

8M ago55:04

55:04

Perhaps humanity has yet to develop the necessary tools to truly process and communicate experiences with UAP and Non-Human Intelligence. If these experiences exist beyond the limits of human perception and language, how can others relate, empathize, and create a space for understanding? When the words don’t exist, and the event defies comprehensio…

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Mike Gold: NASA’s Independent UAP Study Team on UFOs, Congressional Hearings, and Space Policy | RC 78 59:42

8M ago59:42

59:42

Today, we’re joined by Mike Gold, former NASA associate administrator for space policy and partnerships, a key member of NASA’s independent UAP study team, and current Chief Growth Officer at Redwire Space. With experience spanning NASA, Bigelow Aerospace, and private sector innovation, Mike brings a unique perspective to the Congressional UFO hear…

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Demystifying the Disinformation Marketplace 46:43

8M ago46:43

46:43

There never will be enough independent fact checking of online political advertising and their ecosystems. Can we develop methods and tools to demonetize or at least disincentivize the behaviors of disinformation producers as well as the ad firms and content providers in business with them? 2023-24 CASBS fellow Ceren Budak navigates the disinformat…

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Nature's Apothecary: Monarchs, Milkweed, and the Art of Self-Medication with Dr. Jaap de Roode 1:12:14

9M ago1:12:14

1:12:14

Send us a text Today's episode is all about royalty. No, not those odd primates shuffling around palaces in crowns and robes, but the monarchs of the butterfly world. We're joined by Dr. Jaap de Roode, Samuel Candler Dobbs Professor of Biology at Emory University, who's one of the world's experts in insect self-medication. Yup, you heard that right…

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From Nazi Eugenics to CRISPR: Exploring the Promise and Peril of Gene Editing | RC 77 54:38

9M ago54:38

54:38

Today, we’re diving into one of the most debated topics of our time: CRISPR gene editing technology. Join me and Neal Baer, M.D.—pediatrician, acclaimed television writer and producer (ER, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit), and author of The Promise and Peril of CRISPR, published by Johns Hopkins University Press. We’ll explore the moral, ethical,…

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Transforming Science Engagement: Amanda Mathieson on the Power of Escape Rooms and Playful Learning 1:02:40

9M ago1:02:40

1:02:40

Send us a text In this episode of The PrimateCast, your host sits down with science communicator Amanda Mathieson, Head of Public Engagement, Education and Communications at Biorbic, Ireland's National Bioeconomy Research Centre. She's also a pioneer in the space of developing STEM-themed escape rooms. And that was the main topic of discussion in t…

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Evolving Zoo Animal Welfare Science with Dr. Lance J. Miller of Brookfield Zoo Chicago 1:17:52

10M ago1:17:52

1:17:52

Send us a text Explore zoo animal welfare with Dr. Lance J. Miller, a leading authority in animal welfare science at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, formerly Chicago Zoological Society's Brookfield Zoo. Lance is Vice President of Animal Welfare Science at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, but he also holds a slough of other appointments. He’s Chair of the Alliance o…

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Dr. Daniel “Rags” Ragsdale Former White House Official on UFOs, Edge Science, and National Security | RC 76 1:08:21

10M ago1:08:21

1:08:21

Why do policymakers struggle to support edge science? Today, we’re joined by Dr. Daniel “Rags” Ragsdale, former Assistant Director for Cyber in the Office of the Director of Defense Research and Engineering in the White House. With decades of experience in defense, research, and technology, Dr. Ragsdale brings a unique perspective to edge science a…

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From Conventions to Culture: Social Cognition in Techno-Baboons with Dr. Nicolas Claidiere 1:16:04

10M ago1:16:04

1:16:04

Send us a text In this episode I sit down with my friend and colleague, cognitive scientist Dr. Nicolas Claidiere from the Center for Research in Psychology and Neuroscience at Aix-Marseille University. Nico was on the podcast once before, in episode 30 when we recorded from the International Primatological Society's conference in Hanoi, Vietnam, b…

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EP 58 - Belonging Without Othering: A conversation with john a. powell and Stephen Menendian 1:03:03

11M ago1:03:03

1:03:03

In this episode of Who Belongs? we hear from OBI Director john a. powell and Assistant Director Stephen Menendian about the recently released book they co-authored, called Belonging without Othering: How We Save Ourselves and the World. The interview was conducted by Ivan Natividad, who is OBI's assistant director of communications. Learn more at b…

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The Unseen Influence: How UFOs, Sigmund Freud and PR Shape What We Believe | RC 75 1:14:03

11M ago1:14:03

1:14:03

What do UAPs and Freudian psychoanalysis have in common? In this episode, we explore an unexpected connection between UFOs, Freudian psychoanalysis, and the rise of modern advertising and PR. How did Freud’s revolutionary ideas about the unconscious mind shape not just our personal psyches but entire industries designed to influence public percepti…

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A Primatologist's Journey from Japan to the Wilder West (And a call to action!) 22:16

11M ago22:16

22:16

Send us a text What happens when a primatologist and podcaster leaves behind an academic career in Japan to embrace a new chapter in wildlife conservation in Canada? Crickets on the show, for one... Join me as I share my emotional decision to move on from Kyoto University and take up the role of Senior Scientist, Wildlife Conservation at the Wilder…

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UFO Culture’s Dark Side: Misinformation & Manipulation in Dark Alliance with Jay Weidner | RC 74 1:03:04

11M ago1:03:04

1:03:04

In this deep-dive episode of Rebelliously Curious, we’re taking a critical look at the rise of misinformation, manipulation, and cult-like followings in UFO culture, with a special focus on filmmaker Darcy Weir's latest documentary, Dark Alliance: The Inside Story of the Cosmic Con. Darcy examines the controversial and divisive figures David Wilcoc…

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Yukon UAP Mystery Shot Down: Daniel Otis on Delayed Image Release & Defense Implications | RC 73 29:16

12M ago29:16

29:16

Daniel Otis, a freelance investigative journalist for CTV News, has been covering Canadian UAP-related stories for years. Today, we’re focusing on one of his most recent reports: the release of a mysterious image of an object shot down over the Yukon in February 2023. We’ll discuss the details of this image and explore what we know about the object…

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The Humanity of Connective Labor 51:23

12M ago51:23

51:23

Are jobs requiring high levels of human interaction worth preserving in the age of automation? Can we design machines to achieve something profound – the mutual recognition that occurs when human beings truly "see" each other? CASBS faculty fellow Mitchell Stevens explores these questions with Allison Pugh, author of the 2024 book The Last Human Jo…

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Demonology Meets Science: Unraveling the Mysteries of Exorcism, Possession, and UAP Encounters (Part 2) | RC 72 59:37

1y ago59:37

59:37

For part two of this series, UAP and Theology, Chrissy Newton delves into the intriguing intersections of demonology, exorcisms, and science, discussing how ancient theological concepts—especially concerning spiritual warfare—might overlap with modern scientific exploration and what this means for our understanding of both the spiritual and the ext…

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UFOs: Demonic Deception or Spiritual Revolution? A Christian Professor's Perspective | RC 71 45:53

1y ago45:53

45:53

Evidence for UFOs is mounting, and with every new revelation, more questions arise. However, for some, these unidentified phenomena evoke deeper concerns—they believe UFOs might be demonic. How do we discern the truth amidst mystery and speculation? Today, Chrissys Newton is joined by Dr. Matthew Halsted, a professor at Eternity Bible College in Ca…

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Former META and Google Employee Warns Against Technological Monopolization in Africa | RC 70 41:53

1y ago41:53

41:53

Reflecting on the dangers of technological monopolization, many tech entrepreneurs warn that without action, technology may become "yet another tool for the privileged few to stay privileged." With a career that includes experience at Google and Meta, Terrence Taylor, the visionary Founder of the African Institute of Future Technologies (AIFT), bri…

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Human Sensors in UFO Research: Unlocking the Power of Human Experience in Understanding the Unknown | RC 69 56:48

1y ago56:48

56:48

Phenomenology is a philosophical approach that explores the structures of experience and consciousness, focusing on how things appear to us through our subjective perception. This area of study offers a unique lens through which to view the UAP topic. What does it mean to consider humans as sensors? How do we make sense of our everyday lived experi…

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Examining the UFO Phenomenon with a Counterintelligence Officer: Are They the Right Experts to Handle UAP Issues? | RC68 1:30:52

1y ago1:30:52

1:30:52

We often hear the term "counterintelligence" in discussions about UAPs, but what exactly does it entail? What does counterintelligence consist of, and why does it encompass so many areas of focus, such as the FBI's Counterintelligence Program, homeland security, and more? In an exclusive interview, Joshua Pierson, a seasoned US Army Chief Warrant O…

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Organized Civic Benevolence and Nationhood 51:37

1y ago51:37

51:37

Santi Furnari (CASBS fellow, 2023-24) engages renowned political sociologist & 2015-16 fellow Elisabeth Clemens on the role of private civic volunteer organizations in co-constructing national identity and state capacity as well as serving as tools of governance, solidarity, and inclusion for much of American history. In what form does civic benevo…

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EP 57 - Land, Culture, and Belonging: Place-based Community Advocacy 1:18:51

1y ago1:18:51

1:18:51

This episode is part of a series of talks and panel discussions recorded during the breakout sessions of our Othering & Belonging Conference that took place in Oakland this past April. This session is titled "Land, Culture, and Belonging: Place-based Community Advocacy." It looks at the redevelopment of the Henry J. Kaiser Center in Oakland, which …

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Julia Mossbridge PhD on Taboos, Fear, and UAP: Insights through Gender and Neurodiversity | RC67 48:15

1y ago48:15

48:15

Julia Mossbridge, PhD, is a renowned cognitive neuroscientist who has spent years unravelling the complexities of human perception and cognition, particularly in contexts considered taboo and fear. Julia discussed working with taboo and fear: What does cognitive neuroscience teach us? We explore the UAP subject through the lenses of gender and neur…

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Scientists demonstrate the ability to control smart devices from within lucid dreams | RC66 39:49

1y ago39:49

39:49

Researchers from the startup REMspace tested technology that allows people to control a smart home from lucid dreams. I sat down with Michael Raduga, Founder of REMspace, to discuss this complex technology, how it works, and its practical future uses. Join us as we get rebelliously curious. Watch the YouTube interview - https://www.youtube.com/watc…

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EP 56 - Leaning into Paradox: How We Can Block, Bridge & Build Our Democratic Future Together 31:34

1y ago31:34

31:34

This episode is part of a series of talks and panel discussions recorded during the breakout sessions of our Othering & Belonging Conference that took place in Oakland this past April. This session is titled "Leaning into Paradox: How We Can Block, Bridge & Build Our Democratic Future Together." It includes two speakers from the Horizons Project wh…

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EP 55 - Democracy in Crisis: The Courage to Re-Humanize One Another 1:03:21

1y ago1:03:21

1:03:21

This episode is part of a series of talks and panel discussions recorded during the breakout sessions of our Othering & Belonging Conference that took place in Oakland this past April. This session is titled "Democracy in Crisis: The Courage to Re-Humanize One Another." It focuses on a project called Bridging for Democracy (B4D), which is developin…

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EP 54 - Using Data to Advance Belonging without Othering 42:06

1y ago42:06

42:06

This episode is part of a series of talks and panel discussions recorded during the breakout sessions of our Othering & Belonging Conference that took place in Oakland this past April. This session is titled "Using Data to Advance Belonging without Othering." It looks at a set of domains at the intersection of data and civil society, such as racial…

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EP 53 - Expressions of Belonging 1:17:52

1y ago1:17:52

1:17:52

This episode is part of a series of talks and panel discussions recorded during the breakout sessions of our Othering & Belonging Conference that took place in Oakland this past April. This session is titled "Expressions of Belonging," and it offers a mix of stories, insights, and diverse approaches to advancing belonging at an array of organizatio…

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Exposing Sources and Impacts of Election Disinformation Campaigns 42:07

1y ago42:07

42:07

Legendary tech journalist John Markoff (CASBS fellow, 2017-18) chats with 2023-24 CASBS fellow Young Mie Kim on her groundbreaking efforts to identify how shadowy groups use algorithms and targeted disinformation campaigns during presidential election cycles; measure their real-world distorting effects on voter mobilization or suppression; and illu…

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EP 52 - Xenophobia, Resistance, and the Future of the Immigrant Rights Movement 1:33:43

1+ y ago1:33:43

1:33:43

Episode Note This episode is part of a series of talks and panel discussions recorded during the breakout sessions of our Othering & Belonging Conference that took place in Oakland this past April. This session is titled "Xenophobia, Resistance, and the Future of the Immigrant Rights Movement." It includes panelists Annette Wong, who is the Managin…

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EP 51 - Resisting Austerity: Keeping Public Infrastructure Public 1:00:41

1+ y ago1:00:41

1:00:41

Episode Notes This episode is part of a series of talks and panel discussions recorded during the breakout sessions of our Othering & Belonging Conference that took place in Oakland this past April. This session is titled "Resisting Austerity: Keeping Public Infrastructure Public." It includes panelists Donald Cohen, founder and executive director …

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EP 50 - Bridging Through High School Ethnic Studies 1:03:38

1+ y ago1:03:38

1:03:38

Episode Notes This episode is part of a series of talks and panel discussions recorded during the breakout sessions of our Othering & Belonging Conference that took place in Oakland this past April. This session is titled "Bridging Through High School Ethnic Studies," and was curated by OBI's Hossein Ayazi. It includes panelists from the UC Berkele…

Institute For Advanced Studies In The Humanities Podcasts