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Cultured Sloth Conversations

The Many Faces of the Belt and Road Initiative

October 16, 2024

Join us in this episode as we unpack “Global Perspectives on China’s Belt and Road Initiative,” edited by Florian Schneider. Discover the fascinating interplay of voices and influences that shape this monumental project. We’ll explore how a diverse array of actors—ranging from grassroots organizations to...

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East Asia’s Radical Transformation After World War I

October 15, 2024

In this episode, we explore how the First World War transformed East Asia in ways that still resonate today. Based on Frank Jacob’s eye-opening book “East Asia and the First World War,” we’ll uncover Japan’s dramatic rise to power during the conflict and the social...

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Loyalty or Betrayal? Inside Assyria’s Culture of Spying

October 15, 2024

Curious about how ancient empires controlled their people? In this episode, we explore “Creating an Empire of Informers” by Poppy Tushingham, which takes us back to 672 BC when Assyrian King Esarhaddon imposed a shocking system of surveillance. Imagine an empire where everyone, from neighbors...

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Art as Resistance: The Political Pulse of Albania’s Contemporary Scene

October 14, 2024

In this episode, we explore “Broken Narrative: The Politics of Contemporary Art in Albania” by Marco Mazzi and Armando Lulaj, a thought-provoking look at how art and politics intertwine in Albania’s turbulent recent history. Through an in-depth interview with artist Armando Lulaj, we trace the...

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Whiskers and Words: Exploring Beards in German Texts

October 14, 2024

In this engaging episode, we delve into Sebastian Coxon’s “Beards and Texts,” which explores the significant role of beards in medieval German literature from the mid-twelfth to the early sixteenth centuries. Coxon reveals how beards symbolize masculinity and serve as important motifs in discussions of...

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Forgotten Voices: The Untold History of Europe’s ‘Barbarians’

October 13, 2024

Join us for an engaging episode as we explore “Barbarian Europe” by Karol Modzelewski, a fascinating examination of the profound yet often overlooked influence of early Germanic and Slavic societies on European culture. While the legacies of the Christian Church and classical antiquity are well-documented,...

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Echoes of the Past: Soldiers and the Environment

October 13, 2024

In this episode, we explore “Armies and Ecosystems in Premodern Europe” by Sander Govaerts, a thought-provoking examination of the intricate ties between military forces and their environments in historical Europe. Focusing on the Meuse Region, a significant battleground between France and Germany, Govaerts reveals how...

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Who Were They? The Many Faces of the Medieval Self

October 12, 2024

In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of medieval Western Scandinavia and how people understood their own identities between 800 and 1500. “Approaches to the Medieval Self,” edited by Stefka G. Eriksen, Karen Langsholt Holmqvist, and Bjørn Bandlien, uncovers intriguing insights from archaeology, art,...

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Podcast

Beyond the Mainstream, Into the Unspoken

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Sweet Success: Beekeeping Practices for the Tropics

In this episode, we explore L’apiculture by Peter David Paterson, a comprehensive guide to beekeeping in tropical regions with a special focus on African practices. The book offers valuable insights into the biology of bees, hive construction, and the harvesting and processing of honey and...

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The Universe and Us: Exploring the Cosmic Connection

In this episode, we explore the fascinating intersections of cosmology, society, and human understanding through insights from KOSMOS: Vom Umgang mit der Welt zwischen Ausdruck und Ordnung, edited by Peter König and Oliver Schlaudt. This collection spans disciplines and historical eras, examining how humanity’s understanding...

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Bally’s Footwear Revolution: From Utility to Chic

In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of Bally, the renowned Swiss shoe company, during the interwar period through insights from Bally—A History of Footwear in the Interwar Period, edited by Anna-Brigitte Schlittler and Katharina Tietze. We examine Bally’s innovative design strategies, production methods,...

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A Sip Through Time: The Story of Japanese Tea

In this episode, we explore the rich history of Japanese tea through A Bowl for a Coin: A Commodity History of Japanese Tea by William Wayne Farris. This book traces the journey of tea, from its introduction in the 8th century as a medicinal drink...

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Faces of the Unknown: The History and Meaning of Masks

In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of masks, inspired by T.H.M. Gellar-Goad’s book Masks. The author traces the history and cultural significance of masks across different societies and time periods, revealing their roles in rituals, theater, art, and everyday life. We examine how...

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Carved Creatures: Mammals in Indian Sculpture and Folklore

In this episode, we explore Animals in Stone: Indian Mammals Sculptured Through Time by Alexandra van der Geer, a detailed examination of how animals are portrayed in Indian stone sculptures. The book delves into the zoological characteristics of these animals and their deep-rooted connections to...

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Cultured Sloth Podcast?
The Cultured Sloth Podcast explores a wide range of topics, from scientific breakthroughs and cultural history to art and today’s pressing global issues—such as sustainability, conservation, food security, human rights, and climate change. We also focus on foundational ideas like philosophy, ethics, classical literature, and ancient history that continue to shape our understanding of society, human behavior, and complex issues like governance and technology. By blending fresh perspectives with timeless wisdom, the podcast encourages curiosity and sparks meaningful conversations.
How do you select the books and journals you review?
Our selections feature a thoughtful mix of contemporary and classic works. We carefully choose materials based on their current relevance, listener suggestions, and enduring ideas from fields like science, history, education, and philosophy. Whether exploring a groundbreaking new discovery or revisiting a centuries-old text, we aim to highlight works that challenge conventional thinking and spark meaningful conversations.
Do you feature debates or discussions on controversial topics?
Yes, we don’t shy away from exploring challenging or controversial subjects. Our episodes often tackle thought-provoking issues, encouraging open dialogue and presenting diverse perspectives. We believe that discussing difficult issues helps create more meaningful connections and better understanding.
Do you cover global issues like sustainability or climate change?

Absolutely. Global issues like sustainability, climate change, and environmental preservation are central to some of our discussions. We explore these topics from various angles—scientific, cultural, and ethical—highlighting the challenges and innovations shaping the future. Our goal is to raise awareness and inspire positive action through informed conversations.

What is the Cultured Sloth Podcast's approach to complex topics?
We break down complex topics in a way that’s both engaging and easy to understand. Our objective is to make even the most intricate subjects accessible to everyone by exploring them through clear explanations, thoughtful analysis, and real-world examples. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just curious, we strive to spark interest and understanding in every listener.
Do you offer educational resources or further reading?
We typically provide information about the books or papers we review for listeners keen to learn more about the topics discussed on the podcast.
How do I listen to the podcast?

You can listen to the Cultured Sloth Podcast directly on Nonsuch Foundation or through Spotify.

Do I need an account to listen?
No account is required to listen to the episodes on our website or via streaming platforms
How often do new episodes come out?
We release new episodes every day. You can check our website or subscribe for updates.
How do I get notified when new episodes are released?

You can subscribe to our newsletter or follow the Cultured Sloth on Spotify and other podcast platforms to receive notifications about new episodes.

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