S1 E1 New Narratives

In these unprecedented times, does science fiction offer us a way to better understand the world around us? Is there anything we can learn from the great science fiction novels of the past? And what will future science fiction think of these uncertain times we’re living through? Featuring research from Durham University’s English department, contributions from Peter James (one of the UK’s biggest selling science fiction authors), the UK’s leading science fiction film festival and a leading afro-futurist writer from Nigeria.

How is both the pandemic and technology changing our shared responses to death and mourning? In the age of Zoom funerals, is grief fundamentally changing? Featuring research from Durham University’s Theology department, a leading independent celebrant, a journalist with an expertise on grief, and two exciting new businesses – one based in California and one in northern England - who are taking unusually creative approaches to life and death.

Shining a light on the unseen connections between storytelling and philosophy. It has a special feature on the exciting Notes From A Biscuit Tin project, a community outreach activity focusing on the North East philosopher Mary Midgely. Hearing from local authors, experts on folk tales and local social change organisations it explores how philosophy and stories can come together for impact. Featuring research from Durham University’s philosophy department, a local author and the director of Northern Heartlands.

Exploring how Covid-19 is changing the way we travel. Asking if we should be thinking more deeply about the why and the how of our adventures and holidays. The episode questions how lockdown has shifted our understanding of time and travel too. Featuring research from Durham University’s philosophy department, a view on heritage and travel, and thoughts from Visit County Durham too.

How is the pandemic changing the way we worship? Are digital platforms opening up a new way of believing? And what is the lasting impact of people worshipping online? Featuring research from Durham University’s Theology department, the university’s Muslim Chaplain and even a 91-year-old Durham resident who set-up her first social media account to worship during the pandemic.

Protest Song - Examining the work of Durham University’s Singer-Songwriter in Residence, and looking at the future of movement music. Featuring Prof. Catherine Donovan from Durham University's Sociology dept, protest songwriter Nicky Rushton, owner of indie Durham recording studio Rocking Horse Rehearsal Rooms Richard Combstock, and rising North East music star MELOSTME. The Possible Podcast is dedicated to bringing creative thinking to arts & humanities research. It is an independent podcast, produced by Paul Drury-Bradey and Ideosound through Durham University's Arts & Humanities Entrepreneur in Residence programme. #PossiblePodcast

Breathless - Exploring how breathing and breathlessness are represented in art and literature and why this is so important today. Featuring Prof. Jane Macnaughton from Durham University's Medical Humanities dept, academic Arthur Rose, artist Jayne Wilton, and local poet Paul Summers. The Possible Podcast is dedicated to bringing creative thinking to arts & humanities research. It is an independent podcast, produced by Paul Drury-Bradey and Ideosound through Durham University's Arts & Humanities Entrepreneur in Residence programme. #PossiblePodcast

Uncensored - Asking questions about censorship of marginalised communities, and looking at what modern society could learn from classics. Featuring Prof. Jennifer Ingleheart from Durham University's Classics and Ancient History dept, international activist and face of Jamaica Pride Simone Harries, and Durham Pride organiser Mel Metcalf. The Possible Podcast is dedicated to bringing creative thinking to arts & humanities research. It is an independent podcast, produced by Paul Drury-Bradey and Ideosound through Durham University's Arts & Humanities Entrepreneur in Residence programme. #PossiblePodcast

Music and Memory - Uncovering the links between music and autobiographical memories. Featuring Prof. Kelly Jakubowski from Durham University's Music dept, international artist & musician Fayann Smith, LIFE drummer & youth worker Stew Baxter, and leading music PR & strategist Ella MacWilliam. The Possible Podcast is dedicated to bringing creative thinking to arts & humanities research. It is an independent podcast, produced by Paul Drury-Bradey and Ideosound through Durham University's Arts & Humanities Entrepreneur in Residence programme. #PossiblePodcast

New Narratives - Exploring self-publishing and zine culture both internationally and in the North East. Featuring academics Alex Flynn and Lois Burke, North East artist & organiser Theresa Easton, and local illustrator & artist Lizzie Lovejoy.  The Possible Podcast is dedicated to bringing creative thinking to arts & humanities research. It is an independent podcast, produced by Paul Drury-Bradey and Ideosound through Durham University's Arts & Humanities Entrepreneur in Residence programme. #PossiblePodcast