Literature in the Age of the Self

In this episode, Onya speaks with Mara Stoll (UCL MSc Prosperity, Innovation & Entrepreneurship) and theologian Dr. David Dark about how hermeneutics, the art of interpretation, can transform social entrepreneurship. Together, they unpack why understanding our own assumptions and a community’s lived reality is key to avoiding well-intentioned missteps. Discover how applying hermeneutic principles can help founders slow down, listen deeply, and co-create ventures that truly fit the people they are meant to serve. Date of episode recording: 2025-09-01 Duration: 00:41:27 Language of episode: English Presenter: Dr Onya Idoko Guests: Mara Stoll and Dr David Dark Producer: Manolo Fournier Podcast owner: Victoria Howard

This bonus episode consists in a recording of an authorial roundtable held at University College London on the 16th June 2025. Entitled ‘Literature in the Age of the Self’, it brought together three highly acclaimed contemporary writers whose work evinces a marked preoccupation with the experience and the representation of the self. In this conversation chaired by Scarlett and Alice, Rachel Cusk, Brian Dillon, and Vidyan Ravinthiran discuss the self in connection with notions of style, character, and time. They also reflect on the relations between creative and academic writing, between literature and other arts, and on the status of the self in the age of AI and social media.

Cities in Flux - Rethinking Temporary Urbanism and Adaptability Can mega-cities use adaptability and temporary urbanism to ignite innovation, support communities, and become more resilient? While adaptability sparks fresh and innovative approaches to urban design and planning, can city planners adopt tools like - temporary urbanism and meanwhile use - to create longer-term benefits for more liveable and resilient cities? In this episode Professor Lauren Andres is joined by Andy Wiley Schwartz and Emily Berwyn to explore why adaptability is crucial for mega-cities like London and New York, how it can be put into action in city transformation and how it has helped them navigate major crises—from the decline of UK high streets to the COVID-19 pandemic. Transcript here https://bartlett-review.ucl.ac.uk/podcast-cities-in-flux-rethinking-temporary-urbanism-and-urban-adaptability/index.html

In this episode of The Bartlett Review, Professor Dame Henrietta Moore, Founder and Director of the Institute for Global Prosperity, and Arthur Kay, Advisor to Innovo Group and founder of several technology and urban design companies, discuss their new book, Roadkill: Unveiling the True Cost of Our Toxic Relationship with Cars. They explore the social, financial, ethical, and environmental impacts of cars, challenge common myths, and share practical ideas for rethinking the way we use them to improve our cities and freedoms. While cars are often sold as symbols of freedom, Henrietta and Arthur show how they restrict choice, limit city life, and impose hidden costs on health, communities, and the planet. They share real-world examples, challenge myths about electric and autonomous vehicles, and offer practical ideas for rethinking how we use cars. Order your copy: https://getroadkill.com/

Episode title: Ageing Playfully: Transforming perspectives on growing older In this episode of Public Health Disrupted, host Rochelle Burgess is flying solo, and dives into the transformative power of play in the context of ageing. Joined by Rachel Colles, a professional performer and ‘Elderflower’ with Hearts and Minds, and Dr Carrie Ryan, a lecturer in Creative Health at UCL, the discussion explores how playfulness can disrupt conventional narratives surrounding ageing. Rochelle, Rachel, and Carrie challenge the societal tendency to associate play solely with childhood, revealing how embracing play in later life can foster joy, creativity, and meaningful connections. They share insights from their experiences, including engaging with people living with dementia and the profound impact of playful interactions (and bingo!) in care settings. The conversation highlights the importance of validating emotions, and how play serves as a vital public health intervention, encouraging a shift in perspective on ageing. This episode also touches on the significance of fostering genuine connections, ultimately advocating for a more playful approach to public health. Featured in this episode: Host: Rochelle Burgess – Community Health Psychologist and Professor at the UCL Institute for Global Health Guests: Rachel Colles– Professional Performer and Elderflower, Hearts and Minds Dr Carrie Ryan – Lecturer in Creative Health, UCL Department of Arts and Sciences Resources and mentions: ‘Extravagant Acts for Mature People' by Phoebe Davies (as mentioned at the end of this episode by Dr Carrie Ryan!) Date of episode recording: 2025-07-23 Duration: 00:42:57 Language of episode: English Producer: Produced by UCL Health of the Public and edited by Annabelle Buckland, Decibelle Creative Link to transcript: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/health-of-public/news-and-events/public-health-disrupted/season-5-ep-5-ageing-playfully-notes-and-transcript

Dr Mehiyar Kathem speaks with Dr Mohammed Jassim on rebuilding Mosul University’s Central Library after ISIS. Date of episode recording: 2025-08-01 Duration: 24:08 Language of episode: English Presenter:Mehiyar Kathem Guests: Dr Mohammed Jassim Producer: Mehiyar Kathem Transcript link: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/nahrein/media/podcasts/transcript-conversation-dr-mohammed-jassim

In the third episode of our Mental Health & Wellbeing mini-series, host Jade Hunter speaks with Dr Flaminia Ronca, Evie Watson, and Katie Sykes about the Active Minds Project at UCL, an innovative pilot exploring how students’ physical activity and lifestyle habits impact their mental wellbeing and cognitive function. Through wearable technology and behavioural insights, the team is working to refine interventions that can motivate students to move more, sleep better, and thrive both academically and personally. Together, they unpack the data-driven approach behind the project and how it aims to foster a healthier, more supportive university environment. This dynamic conversation touches on the real-world challenges facing students today and the ways in which physical fitness can serve as a pathway to mental resilience. Find out more: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/grand-challenges/disruptive-voices-podcast/active-minds-exploring-links-between-student-lifestyles-and-mental-health

In the second episode of our Mental Health and Wellbeing mini-series, host Jade Hunter sits down with Professor Hugo Spiers, Dr Fiona Zisch, and Isabelle Charval, the trailblazing team behind the world’s first international centre for neuroarchitecture and neurodesign. Together, they delve into how neuroscience and the built environment are converging to shape healthier, more inclusive spaces for everyone. This wide-ranging conversation touches on the potential of this pioneering field to transform sectors such as healthcare, education, and urban planning. With deep insights from research and practice, the episode explores how our brains respond to the spaces we inhabit, and how better design can enhance wellbeing, accessibility, and human connection. Featured in this episode: Host: Jade Hunter – Coordinator, UCL’s Grand Challenge of Mental Health & Wellbeing With special thanks to our guests: Professor Hugo Spiers – UCL Department of Experimental Psychology Dr Fiona Zisch – Lecturer in Architecture, UCL Bartlett School of Architecture Isabelle Charval – Design Strategist and Co-Founder, Centre for Neuroarchitecture

Beyond the neglectful state: unpacking the intersection of public health and personal freedom In this episode of Public Health Disrupted, hosts Xand van Tulleken and Professor Rochelle Burgess tackle the concept of the "nanny state". Alongside guests Adam Briggs and Professor James Wilson, they delve into the delicate balance between government intervention and individual freedom in the realm of public health. The conversation explores how public health policies can sometimes be perceived as overreaching, despite the evidence suggesting that the public largely supports such initiatives. Our guests unpack the historical context of the term "nanny state," its implications, and the ongoing debate about the role of government in promoting health while respecting personal autonomy. Guests: - Dr Adam Briggs, Senior Policy Fellow at the Health Foundation - Professor James Wilson, Professor of Philosophy at UCL In this episode: - The origins and evolution of the "nanny state" rhetoric and its impact on public health discourse. - Insights into public opinion on government intervention in health-related issues, including obesity and smoking. - The importance of framing public health initiatives in a way that resonates with communities and policymakers alike. - How a shift towards prevention can be achieved through approaches that embed health considerations across all areas of government. This conversation invites us all to reconsider the narratives surrounding public health policies and the responsibilities of both the state and individuals in fostering a healthier society. Date of episode recording: 2025-05-12T00:00:00Z Duration: 00:43:51 Language of episode: English Presenter:Professor Rochelle Burgess; Dr Xand van Tulleken Guests: Dr Adam Briggs; Professor James Wilson Producer: Produced by: UCL Health of the Public; Editor: Annabelle Buckland, Decibelle Creative

AI’s influence on planning and cities is no longer theoretical—it is already transforming how urban environments are designed, managed, and experienced. While it holds great promise, can the sector address political, ethical, and practical challenges to ensure these technologies deliver on their potential for better, fairer cities? Prof. Mike Raco and Nissa Shahid join Prof. Lauren Andres to discuss the synergy between cutting-edge AI technologies and the evolving field of urban planning in the second instalment of our Bartlett Review AI series. Transcription link: https://bartlett-review.ucl.ac.uk/podcast-tomorrows-cities-ai-in-urban-planning/index.html Date of episode recording: 2025-05-29T00:00:00Z Duration: 00:36:44 Language of episode: English Presenter: Prof. Lauren Andres Guests: Prof. Mike Raco; Nissa Shahid Producer: Adam Batstone; Chizoba Onyiuke