In this episode of the Quillette Cetera podcast, host Zoe Booth is joined by Anthony Rispo—a writer, independent researcher, and co-host of The Discourse Lab podcast. Anthony holds a degree in psychology from Columbia University, where he specialised in social cognition and sociopolitical behaviour. His academic research has explored narrative, perspective-taking, and autism, and he founded Columbia’s Heterodox Academy Campus Community to promote open inquiry and viewpoint diversity. Zoe first discovered Anthony on Instagram, where he shares nuanced, carefully reasoned commentary on culture and politics. His platform offers thoughtful, accessible videos on everything from identity and political behaviour to social psychology and group dynamics. In this conversation, Zoe and Anthony reflect on their own journeys through highly ideological phases—Anthony as a gay man in activist circles, and Zoe as a self-described vegan Marxist feminist. They discuss how those beliefs affected their personal lives, particularly family relationships, and what it took to step back from those frameworks while still extending empathy to those who remain within them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Quillette Cetera, Zoe Booth speaks with Harvard fellow and Cornell PhD Adam Szetela—author of new book That Book Is Dangerous: How Moral Panic, Social Media, and the Culture Wars Are Remaking Publishing (MIT Press, 2025). A working-class kid turned literary insider, Szetela exposes what he calls “the sensitivity era”: a cultural climate in which books are cancelled before they’re published, authors are shamed into grovelling apologies, and sensitivity readers act as ideological enforcers—surveilling fiction for offence. Drawing on eye-opening examples and experimental research conducted at Cornell’s Social Dynamics Lab, Szetela explains how peer pressure alone can turn readers against even canonical figures like Allen Ginsberg. He also reflects on the publishing industry’s class divide, the fragility of elite institutions, and why pro wrestling and bodybuilding may offer a better education than the Ivy League. From J.K. Rowling and Goodreads mobs to the politics of soccer and masculinity—this is a frank and timely discussion about literary freedom in an age of moral panic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, Dr. Andre Oboler—CEO of the Online Hate Prevention Institute and a global expert on antisemitism, hate speech, and online extremism—joins Zoe Booth to unpack the surge in antisemitic hate speech since October 7, 2023,. Dr. Oboler discusses recent antisemitic attacks on Australian synagogues, and his role as an expert witness in the landmark Wissam Haddad hate speech case, which tested the limits of Australia’s racial vilification laws. He critiques the failure of major social media platforms to moderate digital hate, and outlines the legal, educational, and community responses needed to address the rise in online antisemitism. The conversation also tackles a difficult but essential question: How do we protect free speech while holding people accountable for inciting hatred and violence online? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This episode explores how masculinity, identity, and marginalisation can drive young men toward political and religious extremism. Drawing on research with Australian Muslims and broader work on the “Manosphere,” the conversation covers honour cultures, online radicalisation, misogyny, and the emotional undercurrents linking movements from jihadism to the far right. Also discussed: the social impact of economic stagnation, and how healthier models of masculinity might offer a way forward. Dr Joshua Roose is a political sociologist and Associate Professor at Deakin University, specialising in religion, political violence, and male identity. His work combines ethnographic research with policy insight to examine the forces shaping extremism in contemporary societies. Note: Unfortunately the last few minutes of this recording were lost due to technical issues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As missiles fly between Tehran and Tel Aviv, I’m joined by Iranian dissident Danial Taghaddos to make sense of a rapidly escalating war—and what it means for the future of Iran, Israel, and the region. Danial moved to Australia in 2018 and became politically active during the 2022 Mahsa Amini protests. A royalist and advocate for a return to constitutional monarchy under the Pahlavi dynasty, he’s emerged as a compelling voice in the Iranian diaspora, challenging both the Islamic Republic and the Western narratives that often obscure the regime’s abuses.In this episode, we talk about Iran’s nuclear ambitions, what the regime actually wants from this war, and how Zoroastrianism and Persian identity shape Iranian views on Israel. We also unpack how the Iranian diaspora organizes abroad, why many Iranians support Israel despite the regime’s propaganda, and how the West continues to misunderstand the Islamic Republic. From public executions to political repression—and threat of Islamism and regime spies operating in the West—this conversation is a sobering look at the human cost of Tehran’s ambitions, and a hopeful one about the people resisting from within and without. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, Quillette’s Zoe Booth sits down with Dr Giancarlo Dimaggio—an internationally recognised psychiatrist and psychotherapist best known for his work on metacognitive therapy and the treatment of personality disorders. Based in Rome, Dr Dimaggio is the co-founder of the Centre for Metacognitive Interpersonal Therapy and has published extensively on narcissistic, borderline, and avoidant personality disorders. With a Hirsch index of 56, he is one of Italy’s most highly cited psychotherapists. He also serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Clinical Psychology: In Session and as a Senior Associate Editor of the Journal of Psychotherapy Integration. Their conversation explores the intricacies of narcissistic personality disorder and the broader challenges of diagnosing and treating personality disorders. They unpack common misconceptions about narcissism, reflect on how early experiences shape personality, and examine what makes therapy effective for patients often deemed "difficult to treat." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Maarten Boudry is a Belgian philosopher of science and a prominent public intellectual known for his work on pseudoscience, secularism, and ideological bias. He is a research professor at Ghent University and a vocal advocate for free inquiry and Enlightenment values.In this episode, Zoe Booth speaks with Maarten Boudry about the growing discomfort around discussing Israel in academic settings—particularly following the October 7 Hamas attacks. Maarten shares how the backlash to Israel's response prompted him to re-evaluate his own views and take a keener interest in the region.They explore why Israel has become a third-rail topic in universities, the role of antisemitism in shaping public narratives, and the broader challenges of defending liberal values in a climate of ideological conformity. The conversation covers academic boycotts, preference falsification among students, and the leftward shift in higher education. Zoe and Maarten also reflect on Quillette’s role in challenging dogma and protecting open inquiry from ideological capture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mental health isn’t just about avoiding illness—it’s about learning how to thrive. In this episode, mental health researcher Dr. Matthew Iasiello explains the “dual-continuum” model: a framework that sees mental illness and well-being as distinct but connected. With insights from his podcast Researching Happy and his work at SAHMRI and Be Well Co, Matt joins Zoe to unpack the idea of languishing, why we need better ways to measure well-being, and how culture shapes our mental health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this conversation, Zoe Booth speaks with Will Shackel, an 18-year-old energy advocate and founder of Nuclear for Australia, a youth-led campaign pushing for the inclusion of nuclear power in the country’s energy mix. They discuss the rising cost of electricity and the structural challenges facing the national grid. Shackel makes the case for nuclear energy—particularly small modular reactors—as a reliable, low-emission solution. Together, they explore the history of Australia’s nuclear ban, the political divisions surrounding the issue, and the need for a science-based, bipartisan approach to energy policy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Quillette's Senior Editor, Jonathan Kay reflects on his time ghostwriting Justin Trudeau’s memoir and shares his take on Trudeau’s political trajectory—from golden boy to polariser-in-chief. We get into the highs of his early leadership, his pivot to hardcore social progressivism, the fallout from the truckers’ protest, and the growing anxiety around immigration. Kay also weighs in on the rise of Pierre Poilievre, the new conservative contender shaking up Canada’s political scene. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Richard Hanania is an American political scientist and commentator, known for his right-wing perspectives and as president of the Center for the Study of Partisanship and Ideology. He faced controversy in 2023 when his past writings under a pseudonym advocating white nationalism resurfaced, which he has since disavowed. His book, The Origins of Woke, critiques identity politics and has sparked both praise and criticism. In this conversation, Richard shares his journey from academia to becoming a public commentator, discussing his views on nervousness, political identity, and the complexities of group differences. He reflects on his libertarian beliefs, the challenges of academia, and the role of media in shaping public perception. The dialogue explores the nuances of political views and the importance of individual liberty, while also addressing the market dynamics of controversial topics. In this conversation, Richard discusses his experiences with media, his views on political engagement, and the current state of American politics. He expresses concerns about the Republican Party's direction and reflects on the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing the need for a realistic approach to peace in the region. Richard also shares insights on the implications of Trump's policies and the future of Middle Eastern relations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On the 23rd of October, I sat down in Sydney, Australia, with the esteemed ethicist and theologian Nigel Biggar—Regius Professor Emeritus of Moral and Pastoral Theology at the University of Oxford—to discuss King Charles' visit to Australia, whether Australia should cut ties with the British monarchy and become a republic, what it means to be a patriot, far-left activism, cancel culture, and whether we should be ashamed of our colonial past. I deeply enjoyed Nigel's 2023 book, Colonialism: A Moral Reckoning, which was reviewed in Quillette. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Until recently, David Benatar was a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Cape Town in South Africa, where he also directed the university’s Bioethics Centre. He is widely known for his controversial and challenging views on topics like antinatalism—captured in his groundbreaking book Better Never to Have Been: The Harm of Coming into Existence—which argues that bringing new life into the world inevitably leads to suffering. In addition to his work on antinatalism, Benatar has written extensively on practical ethics, morality, and human suffering, and his most recent contributions to Quillette have focused on the conflict in Israel and rising antisemitism in the Anglosphere. In this conversation, we reflect on the anniversary of 7 October and the ethical questions it raises. The conversation concludes with a discussion of his new book, Very Practical Ethics: Engaging Everyday Moral Questions (2024). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this conversation, Roger Berkowitz discusses the profound influence of Hannah Arendt on political thought, her practical philosophy, and the relevance of her ideas in contemporary society. He explores Arendt's views on truth, opinion, the role of intellectuals, and the dangers of bureaucracy. The discussion also delves into the complexities of Zionism, anti-Semitism, and the importance of friendship and disagreement in politics. Berkowitz emphasizes the need for critical thinking and engagement with Arendt's work to navigate today's political landscape. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Justo Antonio Triana reflects on his experience growing up in Cuba under a dictatorship, highlighting the pervasive poverty, lack of freedom, and challenges faced by Cuban women. He debunks the myth of Cuba’s healthcare system and explores how tourism exacerbates the struggles of ordinary Cubans. Coming from a family of professors, he sheds light on the different social classes in Cuba and the difficulties they encountered in academia, compounded by political indoctrination and severely limited access to the internet and media. Triana critiques the idealized vision of Cuba that never aligned with reality and speaks to the deeper history of the country, revealing the failed promises of the regime. His personal journey led him to the United States, where he discovered Quillette and FIRE, organizations dedicated to free speech—an issue close to his heart, particularly in observing challenges to open discourse on American campuses. A poet with a forthcoming novel about a Cuban escaping communism, he emphasizes the enduring need for free expression and hopes for a future in which the Cuban regime falls, allowing true freedom for his homeland. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This conversation covers two main topics. Firstly, liberalism and "new theism", an idea popularised by Tom Holland and Ayaan Hirsi Ali, who believe that the secular west is spiritually bankrupt. The second half of the conversation involves a critique of political realism and in particular, John Mearsheimer's work on the Israel Lobby and the Russia-Ukraine war. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dr. Mike Israetel is a well-known figure in the fitness and bodybuilding community, recognized for his expertise in sports science, particularly in the areas of hypertrophy (muscle growth), strength training, and nutrition. He holds a PhD in Sport Physiology and has a background in competitive bodybuilding, powerlifting, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As someone with a keen interest in bodybuilding, I've been following Dr. Mike for a while and appreciate how he blends his expertise in sports science with witty humor and quips on "woke" ideology. Bodybuilders aren't often known for their intelligence, but Dr. Mike is an exception. His interest in philosophy, politics, and free-market economics led him to discover Quillette. When I saw that he started following Quillette's Instagram page, I invited him on the podcast to talk, not about protein, squats, and bench-presses, but about the Enlightenment, religion, war, and anti-semitism. For those of you who know Dr. Mike, I hope you enjoy seeing his more philosophical, political side. For those of you who don't know him, I hope this conversation inspires you to not only train your brain (by reading Quillette) but also train your body. As Dr. Mike says in this conversation, "I think challenging yourself in the gym can become something that teaches you a little bit more about the deeper wisdom in life," something that Ancient Greek philosophers such as Socrates would probably agree with. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dr. Warren Farrell discusses his latest book, 'From Rolemate to Soulmate,' which draws on his decades of counseling couples. He highlights the importance of effectively handling criticism in relationships and the consequences of not feeling heard. Dr. Farrell also explores the different forms of violence in relationships and challenges the notion that men are the sole perpetrators. He emphasizes the need for couples to create a conflict-free zone and learn to understand and appreciate each other's perspectives. Additionally, he discusses the importance of compatibility in relationships and the role of communication in bridging ideological differences. The conversation covers topics such as monogamy vs. non-monogamy, the challenges of polyamory and open relationships, the impact of children on relationships, the importance of communication, the struggles faced by men in modern society, and the concept of consent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Drew Pavlou is an Australian student and activist. He made international news after he led protests at the University of Queensland in Australia, supporting Hong Kong and criticizing the university's ties to China. His actions led to a high-profile disciplinary case against him by the university, and a $3.5 million lawsuit which was recently settled. While his methods of protest have softened over the years, he remains a vocal advocate for liberal democratic values, attracting the ire of the far-Left and far-Right. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Graham Linehan has experienced cancel culture firsthand. After building a huge following for his work on the popular TV shows "Father Ted," "Black Books," and "The IT Crowd", Graham became concerned about unscientific gender ideology, including self-identification, males competing against females in women's sports leagues, and experimental gender medicine, including puberty blockers. Since speaking publicly about his concerns, he as faced severe personal and career repercussions. Graham is in Australia as part of his book tour with the Free Speech Union of Australia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices