"Brain rot" as "trashy media for the algorithmic age", the political implications of memes, the differences in global meme cultures, and the impact of AI on the content we receive and share. Dr. Idil Galip is a lecturer in New Media and Digital Culture at the University of Amsterdam and a dedicated scholar of what she's called "meme studies". She shares her ... Show More
Nov 22
Narcy | Keeping It Real: Deepfakes, Power & the Internet
<p>This conversation is an essential guide for anyone navigating the dualities of Arab identity, artistic integrity, and the unpredictable forces of the viral age. Multidisciplinary artist and professor Narcy (Yassin Alsalman) dives deep into the complex relationship between art, ... Show More
1h 6m
Nov 6
Memes in Morocco: Darija, Rap & Digital Activism | Dr Cristina Moreno Almeida
<p>We explore why certain cultural productions thrive exclusively online, the debate around meme humor versus emotional resonance, and how memes can serve as a form of social critique. Dr. Cristina Moreno Almeida, from Queen Mary University of London, joins us and discusses her r ... Show More
53m 39s
May 2025
Data-Driven Storytelling & Anti-Authoritarian Journalism | Mona Chalabi
<p>In this episode of The afikra Podcast, we're joined by renowned journalist Mona Chalabi who discusses her latest animated series "#1 Happy Family USA" with comedian Ramy Youssef, her unique data-driven and illustrated approach to journalism, and the use of humor as an effectiv ... Show More
45m 27s
Feb 2025
Brain Rot: Reclaim Your Focus in the Digital Age
<p>In this enlightening episode of English Plus Podcast, we dive into the phenomenon of brain rot—the subtle erosion of our ability to focus and think deeply in today’s digital age. We explore how constant notifications, endless scrolling, and rapid-fire information are transform ... Show More
12m 10s
May 2025
We Need More Embodied Education! A Conversation with Arawana Hayashi, Prof Guy Claxton, Dr Akhil K. Singh, Emily Poel and Caroline Williams
This week we're exploring embodiment science in education with some of the worlds leading embodiment practitioners and cognitive scientists! We believe that this is one of the most important shifts happening in education globally, which is simultaneously so simple, and yet so har ... Show More
1h 13m
Jun 2025
Sami Al Daghistani | Al-Ghazali's Influence on Islamic Thought, Ethics & Economic Philosophy
<p>We're joined by professor and author Sami Al Daghistani to explore the life and thought of Al-Ghazali, a prominent figure in Islamic intellectual history. We delve into Al-Ghazali's multifaceted contributions to Islamic law, philosophy, and theology, highlighting his major wor ... Show More
1 h
Feb 2025
Curating Art Shows at Jaou Tunis & Navigating Artistic & Cultural Politics | Taous Dahmani
<p>In this episode of The afikra Podcast, host Mikey Muhanna chats with Dr Taous Dahmani, a London-based art historian, writer, and curator. She discusses her career, her ties to Tunis, and curating the exhibitions Unstable Point and Assembly at Jaou Tunis. She explores the socio ... Show More
50m 47s
Jan 2025
Comics & Memes x Culture Text with Neale Barnholden
<p>This week, longtime friend of the pod, Neale Barnholden (he/him), joins Marcelle and Hannah to discuss the materiality of comic books and their influence on modern-day meme culture! They talk reading conventions, colonization, de- and re-contextualization, as well as the raced ... Show More
1h 4m
Feb 2024
E85 - Alex O’Connor: Philosopher Reflects On Death, Atheism, Morality & Meaning
<p>Today we are joined by the Cosmic Skeptic, Alex O'Connor, for a fascinating look into philosophy, atheism, and the pursuit of an ethical life. Alex has gained recognition for his unique perspective on reality, which he interprets through the lenses of materialism and agnos ... Show More
1h 30m
Dec 2024
Teaching Arabic in a Changing World: Perspectives from Educators
Join us for a special episode of QFI’s podcast All Things Arabic podcast in celebration of World Arabic Language Day, premiering December 18, 2024! Titled Teaching Arabic in a Changing World: Perspectives from Educators, this episode is hosted by Caroline Sibley, Teaching Assista ... Show More
1h 16m