As the world ushered in a new year on the 31st of December 2022, it also said goodbye to possibly its most well-known religious leader, Pope Benedict XVI. As a cardinal, Joseph Ratzinger’s uncompromising conservative views earned him the nickname "God's Rottweiler". As Pope, his work was often perceived as a continuation of the conservative agenda of his pre ... Show More
Sep 6
The New Silencing: Women Versus the Manosphere (Part One)
When the MeToo movement ignited in 2017, many believed it would be a turning point for women after which positive change would become inevitable. And for a brief time, it felt like the world was finally listening to women’s voices. But in 2026, that promise feels fragile. The ris ... Show More
37m 21s
Sep 5
Why Did the Working Class Abandon the Left? With Nobel Economist Daron Acemoglu
Liberal democracy was once a radical force. It challenged monarchies, expanded political rights and, at its most successful, helped deliver rising wages and shared prosperity. So how did it become associated with an establishment that growing numbers of voters have turned against ... Show More
37m 56s
Sep 3
How Trade Shapes Our World, With Ed Conway
Trade has shaped human civilisation for thousands of years. From the copper used in Mesopotamian ploughs to the silicon inside our smartphones, vast networks have evolved to move the materials and products on which modern life depends. Yet much of this system remains invisible, o ... Show More
53m 33s
Dec 2022
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI dies at 95
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI died at 9:34 a.m. Rome time, today, Saturday, December 31st, 2022. On this special update episode of “Inside the Vatican,” veteran Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell joins host Colleen Dulle for a conversation on the emeritus pope’s funeral arrangem ... Show More
16m 18s
Dec 2022
BONUS: 5 Enduring Lessons from Pope Benedict XVI
<p>Friends, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, the 265th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, has passed away at the age of 95 years old.</p> <p>In this special "Word on Fire Show" discussion, Brandon Vogt and I reflect on his life, impact, and key ideas and contributions.</p> <p>We sp ... Show More
37m 13s
Apr 2025
Can the Catholic Church Quit the Culture Wars?
<p>On this episode of “Interesting Times,” Ross Douthat is joined by the Rev. James Martin, a Jesuit priest and an editor of America Magazine, to reflect on the legacy of Pope Francis and the challenges facing the next papacy.</p><ul><li>02:20 The First Jesuit Pope</li><li>05:23 ... Show More
57m 42s