Writer's Voice podcast

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

39:33

"The basic premise of the event is that hunters hunt rattlesnakes from the surrounding environment all across West Texas, and bring them into the roundup for the weekend. And during the roundup, these snakes are kept in a pit and then, one by one, beheaded and skinned in front of in front of audiences." - Elizabeth MeLampy Elizabeth MeLampy is a lawyer dedicated to animal rights and protection, and her passion for this work shines through in her latest book, Forget the Camel, the Madcap World of Animal Festivals and What They Say About Being Human . To research the book, Elizabeth traveled across the country, immersing herself in a wide range of animal festivals — from the Iditarod dog sled race to the rattlesnake roundup in Sweetwater, Texas. Elizabeth examines these festivals as revealing microcosms of our broader relationship with animals. Whether it's rattlesnake hunts, frog-jumping contests, ostrich races, or groundhog celebrations, these events reflect the ways humans use animals to express cultural identity, community pride, and historical traditions. Yet beneath the pageantry and excitement lies a deeper question: Is our fascination with these spectacles worth the toll it takes on the animals involved? With compassion and insight, Elizabeth invites readers to consider whether there’s a more ethical and empathetic way to honor our stories — one that respects both animals and the traditions they inspire. Please listen, share and read, Forget the Camel. It will be released on April 8th, 2025. https://apollopublishers.com/index.php/forget-the-camel/…

Writer's Voice

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Talking to writers about matters that move us

29 episodes

Writer's Voice

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updated 3 days ago

Series home•Feed

Talking to writers about matters that move us

29 episodes

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

All episodes

1
Speculative Futures: Cary Groner & Silvia Park on Survival, AI, and the Meaning of Being Human 56:14

3 days ago56:14

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…

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

11 days ago58:06

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…

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

15 days ago

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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…

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

23 days ago58:13

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…

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

30 days ago57:00

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!…

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

6 weeks ago57:48

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!…

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

6 weeks ago59:00

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.…

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

7 weeks ago1:16:01

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 activist Cory Doctorow about his new crime thriller, the latest installment in the Martin Hench series , Picks and Shovels . It tells the origin stories of forensic accountant Martin Hench and the most powerful tool for crime ever invented: the personal computer. 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 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 : Black utopian communities, Aaron Robertson, The Black Utopians, Promiseland Tennessee, Black Christian nationalism, Albert Cleage Jr., Black History Month, Cory Doctorow, Picks and Shovels book, enshittification, digital rights, big tech antitrust Segment 1: Aaron Robertson Aaron Robertson’s book The Black Utopians uncovers the rich yet often overlooked history of Black utopian communities in America—places born from struggle, but driven by hope, self-determination, and perserverance. From the historic town of Promiseland, Tennessee, to the radical vision of Black Christian nationalism in Detroit, Robertson takes us on a journey through forgotten movements that sought to build a better world right here in America. “ Moments of crisis are often when utopian experiments flourish. When existing systems fail, people turn to each other and create something new. “ — Aaron Robertson Topics Covered The history and significance of Black utopian communities Promiseland, Tennessee: A historic all-Black town The role of Black Christian nationalism and its leader, Albert Cleage Jr. How Black utopian movements contrast with white countercultural movements of the 1960s Why mainstream narratives have overlooked Black utopian experiments Lessons from The Black Utopians for building resilient communities today Read an Excerpt Segment 2: Cory Doctorow We welcome back Cory Doctorow—bestselling author, activist, and one of the most incisive voices on the intersection of technology, capitalism, and digital rights. His latest book, Picks and Shovels , is a gripping prequel to Red Team Blues and The Bezel , diving into the dawn of the personal computing era in 1986. Through the eyes of forensic accountant Martin Hench, Doctorow explores corporate fraud, the rise of monopolies, and what he famously calls the “enshittification” of technology. We also discuss how modern fraud operates, the power of spreadsheets in financial crimes, Amazon’s monopoly over the audiobook industry, and why Doctorow is hopeful—not optimistic—about the future of digital rights and labor movements. “We stopped enforcing antitrust laws, and we got monopolies. This shouldn’t surprise anyone.” — Cory Doctorow Topics Covered Why Doctorow set his novel in 1986 and how it serves as a prequel to his previous books How the character Martin Hench uses forensic accounting to uncover fraud using spreadsheets, and why fraudsters often think they’re untouchable. How the early PC industry was a Wild West of innovation, scams, and untapped potential. The “Enshittification” of Everything: A deep dive into how monopolies, regulatory capture, and digital lock-in have turned once-great platforms into exploitative systems. Amazon and the Audiobook Monopoly: Why Doctorow refuses to sell his audiobooks on Audible and how he’s fighting back with Kickstarter. How unions and collective action can push back against corporate overreach.…

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

8 weeks ago1:02:37

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 home. “We’ve been eating a shadow of what chocolate once was— and wild chocolate is bringing back its soul.”* — Rowan Jacobsen Connect with WV: Follow us on Bluesky @rheannonf.bsky.social and subscribe to our Substack . Or find us on Instagram @WritersVoicePodcast Key Words : Rowan Jacobsen, Wild Chocolate book, wild cacao, ethical chocolate, cacao biodiversity, Big Chocolate, Karissa Chen, Homeseeking novel, Chinese diaspora. You Might Also Like: Rowan Jacobsen, AMERICAN TERROIR , Tessa Hulls, FEEDING GHOSTS , Ava Chin, MOTT STREET Summary Rowan Jacobsen shares the hidden world of wild chocolate, from its Amazonian roots to its ethical and environmental implications. He contrasts mass-market chocolate with rare, wild cacao varieties and explores the industry’s dark side, from worker exploitation to Big Chocolate’s market manipulation. Next, Karissa Chen discusses Homeseeking , a novel spanning decades of displacement, war, and migration, following two star-crossed lovers through the upheavals of modern Chinese history. Chen reflects on themes of identity, memory, and what it truly means to find home. Key Topics Segment 1: Rowan Jacobsen on *Wild Chocolate The Amazonian origins of cacao and its discovery in Mesoamerica How wild chocolate differs from industrial chocolate in taste and genetics The exploitation of cacao farmers and labor conditions in West Africa The rise of ethical chocolate and sustainable harvesting efforts The role of indigenous communities in preserving wild cacao biodiversity Segment 2: Karissa Chen on *Homeseeking The inspiration behind the novel: a family history of displacement The impact of war and political upheaval on personal identity How the novel’s dual timelines reflect different perspectives on memory The evolving definition of “home” in the context of migration and diaspora The role of fate, fortune-telling, and personal agency in shaping the characters’ lives…

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

10 weeks ago58:21

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 K. Le Guin Then, Charlotte Dennett gives us a timely update on the geopolitics of the Middle East, connecting current conflicts to her book Follow the Pipelines . And finally, we pay tribute to Jules Feiffer , the legendary cartoonist and author, revisiting his insights on political art and his noir graphic novel about the Hollywood Black List, The Ghost Script . We spoke with him in 2019 . He died January 17. Connect with WV: Follow us on Bluesky @rheannonf.bsky.social and subscribe to our Substack . Or find us on Facebook at Writers Voice with Francesca Rheannon, and on Instagram and Threads @WritersVoicePodcast Key Words : Karen Joy Fowler, Ursula K. Le Guin, The Dispossessed, utopia, Charlotte Dennett, Follow the Pipelines, Middle Eastern geopolitics, Jules Feiffer, The Ghost Script, Hollywood blacklist, energy politics You Might Also Like: Charlotte Dennet, FOLLOW THE PIPELINES , Jules Feiffer, THE GHOST SCRIPT , Ursula K. Le Guin, UNREAL AND REAL . Listen, Like & Subscribe to Writer’s Voice! Key Topics: Segment 1: Karen Joy Fowler on The Dispossessed Le Guin’s vision of “ambiguous utopias” and its contradictions The ongoing relevance of The Dispossessed in today’s sociopolitical climate Exploring themes of equality, individualism, and community Fowler’s reflections on human nature and the balance between utopia and dystopia Segment 2: Charlotte Dennett on Middle Eastern Geopolitics The role of pipelines as “arteries of empire” in shaping global power How energy politics fuel ongoing conflict in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon The significance of the Leviathan gas fields and Netanyahu’s energy corridor ambitions Broader implications for U.S. foreign policy and energy security Segment 3: Jules Feiffer on The Ghost Script The Hollywood blacklist’s impact on creatives and its relevance today Feiffer’s personal connection to the blacklist as a political cartoonist How The Ghost Script blends noir storytelling with political commentary Reflections on the power of art to challenge oppression Listen, Like & Subscribe to Writer’s Voice…

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

11 weeks ago1:03:26

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 →…

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

13 weeks ago57:19

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 →…

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ILLEGALIZED: Rafael Martinez on Undocumented Youth Movements 59:08

13 weeks ago59:08

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 →…

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

14 weeks ago54:46

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 →…

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

15 weeks ago45:42