Shows
Critical EdgeCritical Edge #49 - Parag KhannaParag Khanna is a strategy advisor and bestselling author. He is an expert in geopolitics and global strategy and how we can apply AI to better navigate economic disruptions in our volatile world. Listen in.2025-05-0452 min
Critical Edge Critical Edge #48 - Dave RubinDave Rubin is an American conservative political commentator and host of ‘The Rubin Report’, a political talk show which often debates political correctness, foreign policy, and freedom of speech.2025-04-1448 min
Critical Edge Critical Edge #47 - Cenk UygurCenk Uygur is the founder of The Young Turks and one of the most prominent media critics of corporate governance, campaign financing, and political corruption in the United States. He's very passionate. Listen in.2025-03-2656 min
Critical Edge Critical Edge #46 - Ryan NicodemusRyan Nicodemus is a New York Times best-selling author, and Emmy-nominated Netflix star. He is the co-founder of The Minimalists, an organisation dedicated to helping people eliminate clutter and maximise their lives by scaling back on material possessions and consumerist attitudes.2025-03-1257 min
Critical EdgeCritical Edge #45 - Joseph NyeJoseph Nye is an American political scientist known for his work on US foreign policy and power dynamics. He is also a Harvard University professor who coined the term ‘soft power’ in reference to a country’s ability to influence others through gentle persuasion rather than coercion. In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Nye to discuss his thoughts on the future of American democracy, the lessons the US can learn from its history of political turmoil, and the hypocrisy of the Western world.2025-02-1625 min
Critical EdgeCritical Edge #44 - Philip GoffDr Philip Goff is an academic philosopher and panpsychist. In this episode, we discuss his unique takes on religion and his interpretation of consciousness as the foundation of reality. Can science fully explain the human consciousness? Do the smallest forms of matter possess some kind of experience? Listen now and find out.2025-02-011h 25
Critical EdgeLOAF #43 - Judge TatelJudge David Tatel is a recently retired United States Circuit Judge who broke barriers as a blind judge and a champion for justice. In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Judge Tatel to discuss his memoir, his journey overcoming the challenges of blindness in the legal profession, the erosion of judicial restraint in the Supreme Court, and what the future holds for democracy in the United States.2025-01-1850 minCritical EdgeCritical Edge #42 - Ambassador Husam ZomlotIn this episode, we are joined by Ambassador Husam Zomlot, head of the Palestinian mission to the UK and a steadfast advocate for Palestinian rights and justice. Born in the Shaburah refugee camp, he shares his deeply personal story, reflecting on how his early experiences shaped his journey into diplomacy and his commitment to dismantling the Israeli occupation. As a leading voice in the Middle East peace process, he discusses his involvement in resolutions to the Gaza humanitarian crisis, the legacy of the Oslo Accords, and the ongoing potential for a two-state solution.Hosted by two passionate...2024-12-191h 04
Critical EdgeLOAF #41 - Sir Vince CableSir Vince Cable is the former Leader of the Liberal Democrats, and Cabinet Minister during Sir David Cameron’s premiership, among many other things. In this interview, we discuss the past and present of the Liberal Democrats, the questions concerning UK aid to Israel, the potential of wider war with Russia, whether China should be considered a threat to the West, and more.Sir Vince is not afraid of a challenge. 2024-12-0642 min
Critical EdgeLOAF #40 - Peter MandelsonLord Peter Mandelson: New Labour’s architect and now, Oxford’s potential Chancellor. In this interview, he discusses his past in politics, the ethical dilemmas of university funding, and why he’s the right choice to lead Oxford into the future. Mandelson is also no stranger to controversy, though the truth of such claims is up for debate. Oliver and Lukas unpack all this, two days before the Chancellorship election.2024-11-1742 min
Critical EdgeLOAF #39 - Kathrine SwitzerKathrine Switzer: marathon legend, trailblazer, and champion for women in sports. In 1967, as she ran the Boston Marathon as the first female to ever do so, the race organiser jumped onto the track and attempted to pull her off. Sitting with Lukas and Oliver, in a full-length interview, Switzer shares her historic experience, her battles against outdated beliefs, and her vision for empowering women globally through running.2024-11-0351 min
Critical EdgeLOAF #38 - Jemma SbegWhat does it mean to be lost in your 20s and how can psychological analysis help us understand ourselves? Jemma Sbeg is a mental health advocate, podcast host, and voice behind 'The Psychology of Your 20s'. In this insightful interview, she delves into the quarter-life crisis, choice overload, and the power of embracing solitude.2024-10-2059 min
Critical EdgeLOAF #37 - Oliver BurkemanOliver Burkeman is a journalist, bestselling author, and expert on ‘time management for mortals’. In this candid interview, Burkeman unpacks the truths behind time management, why slowing down may not be the solution, and how to embrace our limitations to find meaning.2024-10-0657 min
Critical EdgeLOAF #36 - Cameron HamiltonCameron Hamilton is a tech entrepreneur, and 'Love is Blind' star. In this episode, Cameron talks about whether love is truly blind, navigating life in the public eye, and how vulnerability is the key to lasting relationships. He also dives into the intersection of AI and ethics, sharing his thoughts on the future of technology and its impact on society. 🌍2024-09-221h 01
Critical EdgeLOAF #35 - Ankur WarikooAnkur Warikoo is India’s top content creator, a serial entrepreneur, and the author of ‘Do Epic Shit’. In this episode, Ankur shares invaluable lessons on leveraging failure as a stepping stone to success, the power of discipline over motivation, and why habits, not goals, decide your destiny. 🧠💡2024-09-0758 minCritical EdgeLOAF #34 - Thomas EriksonThomas Erikson is a behaviourist and the bestselling author of "Surrounded by Idiots", as well as a number of other installments in his "Surrounded By" series.Thomas breaks down the fascinating world of personality types using his unique color theory—red, yellow, green, and blue—revealing how understanding these traits can enhance communication and prevent those everyday conflicts. Learn practical strategies to deal with different personality types and why self-awareness is the key to thriving in relationships.2024-08-251h 02Critical EdgeLOAF #33 - Kayla Barnes-LentzKayla Barnes-Lentz is an entrepreneur, biohacker, and founder of the Longevity Optimization Pod.In this episode, she shares her expertise on brain health, the brain-gut connection, and innovative health therapies. Learn about her insights on longevity for women, the importance of nutrition, and practical lifestyle habits for optimal health.2024-07-2759 minCritical EdgeLOAF #32 - Dr Paul Conti MDDr Paul Conti MD: world-leading psychiatrist, author of Trauma: The Invisible Epidemic.Dr Conti begins by telling us his personal story with trauma, using this as a springboard into a discussion ranging from epigenetics and collective trauma, to how we can individually combat our trauma, to its links to substance abuse and other societal harms.2024-07-131h 09Critical EdgeLOAF #31 - Carter BaysWhat does the creator of ‘How I Met Your Mother’ think about its ending? Carter Bays shares his creative journey from TV to his debut novel, ‘The Mutual Friend’. We explore themes of technology, relationships, and storytelling, uncovering his insights on writing, and his future projects.2024-06-291h 06Critical EdgeLOAF #30 - James NestorJames Nestor: bestselling author and journalist. Exploring the transformative power of breathing, we delve into James's investigative journey, from his acclaimed book, "Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art," to his latest research insights. 2024-06-1548 minCritical EdgeLOAF #29 - Dr Frans de WaalIn memory of Dr Frans de Waal, 1948-2024.Dr. Frans de Waal was a renowned primatologist and ethologist whose work revolutionized our understanding of animal behavior, particularly in relation to empathy, cooperation, and social intelligence. Through decades of research and writing, he showed how the behavior of primates paralleled human social dynamics, challenging conventional views of human exceptionalism.2024-05-1850 minCritical EdgeLOAF #26 - Schuyler Bailar Episode 28: Schuyler Bailar. Schuyler is a trans advocate and queer educator, who came to the spotlight competing as the first D1 NCAA Men’s Trans Athlete for the Harvard Swim Team. In this episode, we discuss trans participation in sports, access and healthcare, legislation around bathrooms, and more. Enjoy!2024-05-0457 min
Critical EdgeLOAF #27 - Liana FinckThe LOAF Podcast sits down with Liana Finck, a distinctive voice in modern cartooning, where we explore the nuances of visual storytelling and her contributions to The New Yorker. How does Liana translate complex emotions into simple, compelling drawings?✏️ Liana's journey offers a unique window into the soul of an artist. 2024-04-2045 minCritical EdgeLOAF S.5 Ep. 5 - Eliud Kipchoge“Let us dare to dream and dare to try!” - Eliud Kipchoge.The LOAF Podcast conducts a long-form interview with Kipchoge, where we delve into the mindset of a champion and look ahead to the upcoming Paris Olympics. What is motivating him and how does he plan to bounce back after Tokyo?🏃♂️ This podcast is a masterclass in endurance, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence: Eliud's story is a compelling reminder of human potential. Why does Kipchoge run? And why should YOU?2024-03-3041 minCritical EdgeLOAF Season 5 Ep. 4 - Steven PinkerJoin us on The LOAF Podcast as we sit down with Dr Steven Pinker, cognitive psychologist at Harvard, prolific author, and public intellectual.Dr Pinker is renowned for his academic work in language acquisition, his defence of the computational theory of mind, and visual cognition. Aside form his academic work, he writes for a popular audience about rationality, human progress, the decline of violence, and much more.In this episode we discuss cognitive biases, the border between pseudoscience and science, free speech, Trump, and inequality.2024-03-0200 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 5 Ep. 3 - Simon CritchleyAn Oxford University Podcast. This week we welcome Simon Critchley, an English philosopher renowned for his work in political philosophy, ethics, and aesthetics, who challenges traditional notions by arguing that philosophy begins in disappointment.In this episode we discuss: the philosophy of humour and its ability to challenge social norms, the absurdity of football fandom, and death itself. One of our most dense episodes to date, Critchley explores a vast range of issues, elucidating the human experience with nuance and wit.2024-02-251h 13
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 5 Ep. 3 - Simon CritchleyAn Oxford University Podcast. This week we welcome Simon Critchley, an English philosopher renowned for his work in political philosophy, ethics, and aesthetics, who challenges traditional notions by arguing that philosophy begins in disappointment.In this episode we discuss: the philosophy of humour and its ability to challenge social norms, the absurdity of football fandom, and death itself. One of our most dense episodes to date, Critchley explores a vast range of issues, elucidating the human experience with nuance and wit.2024-02-241h 13
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 5 Ep. 2 - Lindsey VonnAn Oxford University Podcast. Join us with Lindsey Vonn, the most celebrated female skier of all time. Discover her early dreams, the highs and lows of professional sports, and her candid insights on overcoming obstacles, both on the slopes and in life. In this episode, Lindsey opens up about mental health, the evolution of skiing, and her mission to empower women in sports.2024-02-1030 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 5 Ep. 1 - Robert WrightAn Oxford University Podcast. Join us with Robert Wright, an expert in evolutionary psychology and AI, as we explore human evolution, the impact of artificial intelligence, and the power of mindfulness. Discover Wright's insights on how these forces intertwine to shape our future and the potential for a purpose-driven evolution.2024-02-031h 00
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 4 Ep. 8 - Dr Joe DispenzaAn Oxford University Podcast. This episode features Dr. Joe Dispenza, a neuroscience expert, researcher, and bestselling author, known for his work linking science and spirituality. We delve into his intriguing insights on how our thoughts and emotions can dramatically affect our physical health and reality. Join us as we explore the science behind spontaneous healing, the potential of the human mind, and more!2023-12-161h 17
The People's Countryside Environmental Debate PodcastThe LOAF Takeover: Undoing the Mess We Made with the ClimateWelcome to The People's Countryside Environmental Debate Podcast, where co-hosts Stuart 'The Wildman' Mabbutt and William Mankelow delve into the pressing questions sent in by listeners. In this special episode, we join forces with The LOAF Podcast, hosted by Lukas Seifert and Oliver Walsh, to tackle the following crucial question sent in by Rory from Darwin, Australia:
“The world has an opportunity to reverse human caused climate change, so why doesn't it?”
Stuart and William kick off the discussion by questioning the feasibility of reversing human-caused climate change, highlighting the historical carbon impact spanning over 150 year...2023-12-1228 minCritical EdgeLOAF S. 4 Ep. 7 - Anna LapwoodAn Oxford University Podcast. Anna Lapwood is a professional organist and TikTok sensation, who popularised the #playlikeagirl movement, seeking to improve access for and attitudes to women and girls in the music world. We talk to her about this movement, her charity work in Zambia, making classical music modern and fashionable, and much more!2023-12-1143 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 4 Ep. 6 - Spencer MatthewsAn Oxford University podcast. Spencer Matthews runs multiple successful podcasts and founded the no. 1 non-alcoholic spirits brand, CleanCo. We talk to him about his journey to becoming sober, the death of his brother and his attempt to find him on Everest in his new documentary, and his business endeavours.2023-11-261h 08
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 4 Ep. 5 - Dan ArielyA LOAF Podcast Episode. Step into the world of behavioral economics with Dan Ariely, a leading figure in the field. This episode takes you on a journey into the human mind, exploring the psychology of belief systems and their surprising influence on society. Ariely delves into cognitive biases like Explanatory Depth, the role of social identity in shaping beliefs, and the intriguing intersection of economics and belief systems. Discover why people cling to beliefs despite evidence to the contrary and how this shapes our daily decisions. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that uncovers the irrational aspects of our...2023-11-2052 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 4 Ep. 4 - David CrystalAn Oxford University Podcast. Join us for a riveting session with David Crystal, world-renowned linguist, as we dissect the evolution of language in the digital era. From the true impact of texting to the linguistic quirks of social media, Crystal provides unparalleled insights into how we communicate today.Listen in as we unravel the complexities of English, challenge language myths, and even uncover the positives of profanity. It's a conversation that promises to enlighten and entertain.Dive into the dialogue now on Spotify. Your view of language is about to get a whole lot broader.2023-11-051h 01
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 4 Ep. 3 - Ruby BarkerAn Oxford University Podcast. This episode showcases an engrossing talk with Ruby Barker, the actress most known for her role in Bridgerton. In this episode, Ruby offers a raw and honest look into her experiences in the acting industry. From her initial reluctance to accept a role due to a questionable casting process, to her eventual breakthrough with Bridgerton, Ruby's journey is anything but ordinary.2023-10-2851 minCritical EdgeLOAF S. 4 Ep. 2 - Anne-Marie Canning MBEAn Oxford University Podcast.This episode showcases a captivating talk with Anne-Marie Canning MBE, social mobility advocate and CEO of The Brilliant Club. Dive into discussions on dismantling educational barriers, empowering underprivileged students, and harnessing impactful anger to reshape the British class landscape.2023-10-2351 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 4 Ep. 1 - Wim HofAn Oxford University Podcast.Join us as we embark on a transformative journey with the renowned "Iceman," Wim Hof. We delve into the depths of his groundbreaking breathing techniques and the science behind extreme cold exposures. From heartfelt stories of hope and healing to discussions on the power of an ice bath over the dopamine system, and criticisms of the modern pharmacological industry, Wim shares it all.2023-10-1456 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 4 Ep. 1 - Wim HofAn Oxford University Podcast.Join us as we embark on a transformative journey with the renowned "Iceman," Wim Hof. We delve into the depths of his groundbreaking breathing techniques and the science behind extreme cold exposures. From heartfelt stories of hope and healing to discussions on the power of an ice bath over the dopamine system, and criticisms of the modern pharmacological industry, Wim shares it all.2023-10-1457 minCritical EdgeLOAF S.3 Ep. 7 - Graeme Le SauxAn Oxford University Podcast.Join us as we sit down with Premiere League winner and NBC pundit Graeme Le Saux, diving deep into his iconic career moments and the pressing issues in today's football world. From confronting homophobia and racism to insights on the rise of the Saudi League and women's world cup, Graeme doesn't hold back.2023-08-2659 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 3 Ep. 6 - Nikita GillWelcome to Season 3, Episode 6 of the LOAF podcast! In this installment, we sit down with Nikita Gill, the Instagram poet extraordinaire boasting over 700k followers. Gain insights into her creative process, the digital age of poetry, and the profound connections she forges. Stick around as we co-create a spontaneous poem, reflecting the magic of collaboration. In other words: A LIVE POETRY FREESTYLE! Tune in!2023-08-1957 minCritical EdgeLOAF S. 3 Ep. 5 - Josh CavalloAn Oxford University Podcast. Join us for an enlightening discussion in Episode 5 of Season 3 of The LOAF Podcast, as we sit down with the remarkable Josh Cavallo. Josh Cavallo is the world’s first openly gay top-flight footballer. His authenticity pioneers the way towards a more inclusive and diverse sporting community, empowering individuals to thrive while embracing their identities. Tune in to join us on this exploration of Josh's journey, his aspirations, and the profound impact he's making, both on and off the field.2023-08-1257 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 3 Ep. 4 - Seth WatermanAn Oxford University Podcast.Dive into Episode 4 of LOAF Season 3, where we chat with Seth Waterman, aka Saffron Olive.Seth's a leading YouTuber and podcaster, and content creator for MTGGoldfish. He is an expert in the financial aspect of MTG and regularly posts gameplay content.We discuss his MTG journey, e-sports, and game accessibility. Plus, we explore Post Malone's MTG interest and crossovers with Fortnite and Lord of the Rings.2023-08-0527 minCritical EdgeLOAF S. 3 Ep. 3 - Alastair CampbellAn Oxford University Podcast. Join us on The LOAF Podcast as we sit down with Alastair Campbell, a prominent figure in British politics and journalism. Alastair Campbell is a well-known political strategist and former Director of Communications and Strategy for Tony Blair during his time as Prime Minister. In this episode, we delve into some intriguing topics with this influential guest. During the interview, we explore Alastair Campbell's perspective on the irreparability of Brexit, gaining insights into his thoughts on the long-term implications of this historic event on the UK and Europe. We also seek his advice for Keir Starmer...2023-07-2956 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 3 Ep. 2 - Matthew JohnsonToday the LOAFers interview ex-TV presenter Matthew Johnson! The man from Caerphilly used to present in the interactive "Hub" on ITV's This Morning between 2010 and 2013 and also co-hosted Channel 5's OK! Now known for his mental health advocacy, Matt bursts with positivity. Have a listen, as we discuss Matt's life and work.2023-07-221h 11Critical EdgeLOAF S. 3 Ep. 1 - Peter SingerWe’re starting off this season with a banger. For Season 3 Episode 1, we are incredibly lucky to have Dr Peter Singer. Dr Singer is a renowned academic philosopher and the Ira W Decamp professor of Bioethics at Princeton University. He is considered the father of the animal liberation and effective altruism movements, and has written numerous best-selling books such as “The Life You Can Save” and “Animal Liberation”.In this episode, we discuss Dr Singer’s new book “Animal Liberation Now”, his favourite type of bread, freedom of speech, the progress of the vegan movement, his meta-ethical position, thought experiments such as the Expe...2023-07-151h 00
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 2 EP. 8 - "FINALE" This week, the LOAFers sadly say goodbye to season 2 of the LOAF podcast, talking about the season's favourite moments and the many exciting plans ahead.2023-06-1714 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 2 EP. 7 - "ANDREW JENNINGS" This week the LOAFers interview world-renowned retailer Andrew Jennings (OBE). He held top executive positions in major retail companies such as Harrods and German retail giant Karstadt. The LOAFers ask the business guru about the retail industry, business psychology and the digital world. Join us every Saturday at 4pm!2023-06-1021 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 2 EP. 6 - "MIC THE VEGAN" In this episode, our esteemed LOAFers interview MictheVegan - a popular science writer and vegan on youtube - at the behest of the other, much less famous vegan on the podcast. We (attempt to) address topics such as notable vegan stereotypes, destigmatising veganism, the health benefits of veganism to even mussels (thanks to Lukas). Join us every Saturday at 4pm!2023-06-0341 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 2 EP. 5 - "A.E. STALLINGS" This week the loafers interview award-winning New Formalist poet and essayist A. E. Stallings on her poetry (of course!), her journey (from Oxford) and her appreciation of the Classics. Join us every Saturday at 4pm!2023-05-2731 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 2 EP. 4 - "JONATHAN TOWNSEND" This week the LOAFers interview the CEO of the Prince's Trust Jonathan Townsend talking about his business journey, the role of the Prince's Trust and how the trust supports young disadvantaged people today especially during and after Covid. Join us every Saturday at 4pm!2023-05-2036 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S. 2 EP. 3 - "MOYA GREENE"This week the Loafers talk to ex-CEO of the Royal Mail Dame Moya Greene. She was CEO of the Royal Mail where she oversaw privatisation; she also worked as CEO of Canda Post, where she trebled profits. Listen to four Oxford Students interview one of the formerly most powerful woman in Britain! Join us every Saturday 4pm!2023-05-1339 min
Critical EdgeLOAF S.2 EP. 1 - "GABE HOWARD"This week the LOAFers interview mental health expert Gabe Howard. Gabe is an award-winning podcaster, author and speaker who lives with bipolar. This episode touches on topics of the difference between mental illness and mental health, the dangers of bipolar and the stigmatization of such disorders. Join us every Saturday 4pm!2023-04-291h 08
Critical EdgeLOAF S.2 EP.0 - "WELCOME BACK"This week the loafers quickly recap their vac, an 'eventful' trip to Italy and introduce their packed termcard for the next 8 weeks...2023-04-2219 min
Critical EdgeLOAF EP. 7 - "VARSITY BOXING" In this final episode of Season 1 of the LOAF Podcast, the LOAFers (and Faris trying to recover from his sore throat) talk about all things boxing (and martial arts) in anticipation of Oxford vs. Cambridge Varsity Boxing. We interview three Oxford Blues boxers, George Garner, Roberto LaCourt and Ade Olugboji about their mentalities on and off the ring. Come listen to us next term on Oxide Radio every Saturday at 4 pm!2023-03-1242 min
Critical EdgeLOAF EP.6 - "SPORTS"This week the LOAFers deconstruct all things sports (in a Derridian Sense). We discuss our various sporting experiences and our (lack of) sporting achievements. We also analyse our views on toxic culture in sports, such as pressure and bigotry, and its recent commercialisation.Join us every Saturday 4pm on Oxide Radio!2023-03-0445 min
Critical EdgeLOAF EP. 5 - "FIX THE UNCULTURED" This week the LOAFers interview Fix from the hip-hop-based Instagram account FixTheUncultured (https://www.instagram.com/fixtheuncultured/). Fix explores his love of the genre, his account's success, and his favourite artists, albums, and themes. Listen in also to hear exclusive never-heard-before Denzel Curry audio...Join us every Saturday at 4pm!2023-02-251h 00
Critical EdgeLOAF EP.4 - "Q&A"This week the LOAFers recap the week and answer and discuss listener questions.2023-02-2250 min
Critical EdgeLOAF EP. 3 - "VALENTINE'S DAY" This week, the LOAFers talk about their (lack of) Valentine's Day plans and their favourite love songs!Tune in every Saturday 4pm!2023-02-2253 min
Critical EdgeLOAF EP. 2 - "FRANK OCEAN" This week the four loafers discuss Frank Ocean with the song of the week, "Pink Matter" on his breakout 2012 album "channel ORANGE".2023-02-2239 min