Sam Herbst (co-host of The Great Equalizer) catches up with authors to chat about their books. TGE's Current Read offers word nerds, bibliophiles and literature buffs a glimpse into the mind of an author and showcases the latest books that the world's biggest publishing houses have on offer. Subscribe and join the conversation with TGE and authors from around the globe.
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An honest, unfiltered, unapologetic and (at times) irreverent parenting and lifestyle podcast about the realities of being a mom (or dad!) in the 2020s. Launched in 2018 by journalist Sam Herbst and marketing maven Charlene Armstrong, this podcast aims to debunk the myth of “perfect parenting” through personal (and balanced) accounts of our mothering highs and lows all while tackling a host of relatable lifestyle topics. And – because we can hardly pretend to have our own sh*t together – our ...
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The Nanny Diaries is a podcast series about nannies, their employers and the issues they face in our South African context. The Great Equalizer podcast in collaboration with writer, journalist and mother, Samantha Steele, touches base with experts in the field, moms navigating this unique space and, of course, the real MVPs, the nannies themselves.
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Two Good Ears is a podcast that dives deep into the world of music, hosted by Rich Reardin. With a wealth of experience as a musician, producer, audio engineer, multi-media producer, radio producer, and studio owner, Rich brings a unique perspective to every conversation. He co-founded the radio show In Search of a Song in 2005 alongside legendary guitarist Jason Wilber (John Prine), which aired over 700 episodes on PRX (Public Radio Exchange). Two Good Ears takes the same approach as the ra ...
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Send us a text Join TGE host Rich Reardin as he talks with Texas singer/songwriter Alison Tucker. Alison Tucker is a singer-songwriter from Austin, whose songs reflect real life — the messy, the funny, the beautiful, and the hard. Blending folk, country, and Americana, she shares stories and music that feel personal and familiar, like you’ve known …
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Send us a text Today on TGE, Rich Reardin is revisiting the world of famed music producer Bob Johnston, but with a fresh perspective. Joining Rich as guest host is the immensely talented Bob Cheevers, a renowned singer/songwriter from Austin, Texas. Together, they listen to clips from Rich's original interview and discuss Johnston’s extraordinary i…
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Send us a text Join TGE host Rich Reardin as he talks with singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist/banjoist Bob Lucas. Bob's music has been covered by artists like Alison Krauss. In the '70s, he co-founded the boundary-pushing band Eclectricity, blending folk with global influences, and he's gone on to release numerous solo records. In this episode…
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Parent Yourself First by Bryana Kappadakunnel
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1:11:07Joining hosts Sam and Charlene on this episode of TGE's Current Read is licensed marriage and family therapist – and founder of the popular Conscious Mommy community on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok – Bryana Kappadakunnel. Bryana’s book, Parent Yourself First, gives readers a look into how your upbringing is probably impacting your parenting styl…
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Send us a text Join TGE host Rich Reardin for an engaging conversation with Jefferson Ross, a distinguished Southern folk artist whose storytelling flourishes through music, guitar, and painting. With a career that includes songwriting and performing alongside country legends such as George Strait and Reba McEntire, Jefferson now brings his distinc…
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Send us a text Join TGE host Rich Reardin as he welcomes Eric Schmitt, a talented singer/songwriter and professor from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Eric's passion for Americana music shines through his storytelling, blending elements of folk, country, and blues into heartfelt and evocative compositions. As an educator at Louisiana State University, he b…
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On this episode of TGE’s Current Read, Sam speaks to New York Times bestselling author Abigail Dean about her latest novel, The Death of Us. Best known for her first novel Girl A, which was a runaway success and an instant bestseller, Abigail’s writing has appeared in the Guardian, the Observer, the Times and the New York Times. The former lawyer i…
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BONUS | ALL THE OTHER MOTHERS HATE ME! with author Sarah Harman
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48:49On this BONUS episode of The Great Equalizer, Sam and Charlene interview Sarah Harman, author of the most anticipated reads of 2025, so named by Readers Digest, Publishers Weekly, The Sunday Times Style, Time Magazine and Marie Claire. A satirical domestic thriller, All the Other Mothers Hate Me follows single mother and washed-up former girl-band …
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All the Other Mothers Hate Me by Sarah Harman
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48:49On this episode of TGE's Current Read, Sam and Charlene interview Sarah Harman, author of the most anticipated reads of 2025, so named by Readers Digest, Publishers Weekly, The Sunday Times Style, Time Magazine and Marie Claire. A satirical domestic thriller, All the Other Mothers Hate Me follows single mother and washed-up former girl-band singer …
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TGE Episode 306 – Ron Houston and the Berry Pickers
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1:59:52Send us a text Join TGE host Rich Reardin as he talks with talented singer-songwriter Ron Houston, frontman of Ron Houston and the Berry Pickers. Get ready to dive into Ron's creative world, hear the tales behind his songs, and discover what makes his unique sound resonate with listeners everywhere. Stay tuned for an unforgettable episode!" Ron Hou…
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TGE Episode 305 – Gene Parsons - The Byrds / Flying Burrito Brothers
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1:19:05Send us a text Join TGE host Rich Reardin as he talks with singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Gene Parsons. Gene played with The Byrds, The Flying Burrito Brothers, and is also well known for designing his 'B-Bender' Telecaster guitar for his best friend Clarence White in the sixties, changing the face of 'Country Rock' forever. This is from G…
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Episode 103 | MENSTRUATION! Unpacking periods and menstrual health as moms
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1:01:01On this episode of The Great Equalizer we're spilling all the tea on Aunt Flo with a full episode on first periods, menstrual health, and talking to our kids about Shark Week (starting with anatomically correct terminology, of course 😉) We're finally pulling the plaster on a topic that we've always wanted to cover, and one that we feel especially p…
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TGE Episode 304 - C. Daniel Boling of 'The Limeliters'
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2:36:50Send us a text Join TGE host Rich Reardin as he talks with singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist and member of 'The Limeliters', C. Daniel Boling. In this episode, Daniel and Rich talk about the history of 'The Limeliters', writing music with Tom Paxton, his guitars and instruments, and inspirations from the road. Why folk music has been so impor…
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Send us a text In this episode, host Rich Reardin sits down with singer-songwriter and studio owner Neale Eckstein, the heart and soul behind Fox Run Studio. Neale reflects on his lifelong musical journey, from learning guitar during the Peter, Paul and Mary era to his time in college playing in cover bands. Though he became a pediatric dentist, Ne…
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TGE Episode 301 - 'Mean Mary' James
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1:03:42Send us a text In this episode, host Rich Reardin sits down with the incredible 'Mean Mary' James, a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist whose life story is as wild as her music. Born in Geneva, Alabama, and raised in a nomadic family, Mary’s journey from roughing it in the wilderness of North Minnesota to becoming a renowned folk musician …
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Send us a text In this episode, host Rich Reardin sits down with Washington, D.C. singer-songwriter Billy Coulter, whose distinctive sound blends Roots Rock and Power Pop. Drawing influences from legends like Springsteen, Petty, Lennon, and Bowie, Billy has crafted a unique style that pays homage to the classics while feeling fresh and authentic. W…
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Send us a text Join host Rich Reardin as he sits down with South Carolina singer-songwriter Don Merckle, a darkly honest and wry artist from Charleston. Known for his ability to blend rock and roll with smoky barroom introspection, Don's music reflects his roots in the mixed traditions of American sound. With a rich history leading the Appalachian/…
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Send us a text Join host Rich Reardin as he interviews Texas singer-songwriter Sarah Pierce, a true cowboy’s daughter with deep roots in the cattle ranching world. Raised in West Texas, Sarah’s remarkable journey in music began at a young age, from singing in her stepfather’s band to performing across the globe, from New York City to Europe. Known …
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TGE Episode 213 - Jesse James DeConto
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1:13:51Send us a text Join host Rich Reardin as he talks with singer-songwriter Jesse James DeConto of the band The Pinkerton Raid on this episode of the podcast. With their unique blend of dreamer folk and campfire pop, Jesse takes us on a journey through his eclectic influences—from Nordic forest legends to Broadway tunes turned football fight songs. Dr…
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Send us a text Host Rich Reardin sits down with Austin, Texas singer-songwriter Billy Eli, a true road warrior whose life has been shaped by the grit and stories of the American landscape. With a trucker's tan and countless miles on the road, Billy has earned his place in the music world through tireless touring and a rich catalog of songs reflecti…
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Send us a text Join host Rich Reardin as he sits down with Asheville-based singer/songwriter Katie Oates. A lifelong vocalist, Katie’s journey from belting hymns in her crib to finding her own voice is a story of musical evolution and personal growth. Raised in a preacher’s household, Katie’s diverse vocal training spans genres like classical, folk…
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Send us a text Join host Rich Reardin as he sits down with New Jersey singer-songwriter Gary Van Miert. Known for his electrifying performances, Gary blends his deep roots in traditional American music with a fresh, psychedelic twist. With a voice that echoes the golden age of Gospel and a sound that now incorporates elements of sixties psychedelia…
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Send us a text Host Rich Reardin sits down with Arizona singer-songwriter Ryan David Green, a virtuoso acoustic guitarist known for his lightning-fast fingerwork and unforgettable melodies. Ryan’s music blends intricate instrumental guitar pieces with delicate vocal tunes, creating an intimate, otherworldly experience for listeners. A graduate of B…
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Send us a text Host Rich Reardin sits down with Oklahoma singer-songwriter Jubal Lee Young, a distinctive Americana artist who has carved his own path despite the weight of his legendary lineage. The son of outlaw country pioneer Steve Young and talented musician Terrye Newkirk, Jubal faced the challenge of stepping out from their shadows to create…
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Send us a text Host Rich Reardin sits down with Massachusetts-based singer-songwriter Erin Ash Sullivan, whose musical journey has been shaped by a childhood spent traveling the world in a Volkswagen camper van. From her early exposure to music through her grandmother’s piano and voice lessons, to forming the band Edith O in New York City, Erin’s s…
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Send us a text Join host Rich Reardin as he sits down with Austin-based singer-songwriter Nichole Wagner, a rising star who has spent nearly a decade shaping her sound and carving a unique space in the crowded music scene. A child of rural Colorado now making her mark in one of modern music's busiest hubs, Nichole blends folk, pop, and rock with vu…
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TGE Episode 203 - The Gringo Pistoleros
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1:15:26Send us a text In this episode of Two Good Ears, host Rich Reardin sits down with Lazarus Nichols and Corey Griner of The Gringo Pistoleros. The band, born from the ashes of the pandemic, is a collaboration of three generations of artists passionate about keeping Texas country music alive and kicking. Laz and Corey take us behind the scenes of the …
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TGE Episode 202 - Rex Hunt & Tim Carbone
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1:37:06Send us a text In this episode of Two Good Ears, host Rich Reardin is joined by Rex Hunt and Tim Carbone, two accomplished musicians known for their work in the Americana and bluegrass scenes. Rex, a talented Indiana-based artist, and Tim, renowned for his contributions to Railroad Earth and his deep dives into roots music, reflect on their musical…
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Send us a text In this episode of Two Good Ears, host Rich Reardin is joined by Tim Carbone, renowned musician, producer, and guest host of the podcast, known for his work with Railroad Earth and his impact on the bluegrass and Americana scenes. Tim and Rich reflect on concerts they've attended that left a lasting impression and sparked their creat…
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Just before The Dark Mirror was finalised for early readers, TGE's Current Read host Sam Herbst caught up with epic fantasy author Samantha Shannon to pick her genius brain about the worlds her readers have come to adore. Best known for her epic fantasy tome Priory of the Orange Tree (a high-fantasy feminist retelling of St George and the Dragon), …
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The Pumpkin Spice Cafe (Dream Harbour Series) with author Laurie Gilmore
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47:20Christmas in South Africa will never be snowy and white, but if your preferred genre is a cosy romance, this is the time to get stuck into some seasonal spice. And, if numbers are anything to go by, this year’s TikTok Shop Book of the Year is bound to scratch the itch for romance fans. Join The Great Equalizer's Sam Herbst as she chats with author …
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Episode 102: TRADWIVES! and professional girlfriends (the #nojudgies deep dive)
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1:15:47From Nara Smith to Ballerina Farm, social media goers worldwide have been captivated by #TradWives. This is a growing trend of women choosing homemaking and traditional gender roles rather than having a career or earning an income independent of their partners. But what does that economic dependence on men cost women? On this episode of The Great E…
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We Were Perfect Parents Until We Had Children by Vanessa Raphaely & Karin Schimke
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1:11:32On this episode of TGE’s Current Read (and a special bonus episode of The Great Equalizer), two of the fiercest women in the publishing and parenting space – Vanessa Raphaely and Karin Schimke – join your hosts, Sam and Charlene, to talk about their book: We Were Perfect Parents Until We Had Children. Through combined effort, Vanessa and Karin gath…
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BONUS | WE WERE PERFECT PARENTS! Until We Had Children with Vanessa Raphaely & Karin Schimke
1:11:32
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1:11:32On this episode of TGE’s Current Read (and a special bonus episode of The Great Equalizer), two of the fiercest women in the publishing and parenting space – Vanessa Raphaely and Karin Schimke – join your hosts, Sam and Charlene, to talk about their book: We Were Perfect Parents Until We Had Children. Through combined effort, Vanessa and Karin gath…
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Episode 101: HIV AWARENESS with author and philanthropist Nozibele Mayaba
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1:13:20On this episode of The Great Equalizer: Sam has merit, Charlene’s perpetually hormonal, and we chat to author, content creator and philanthropist Nozibele Mayaba. Nozibele Mayaba has a long list of accolades: HIV activist, internationally recognised podcaster and TV host. She's partnered with Jacaranda FM and East Coast Radio to launch a youth podc…
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On this episode of TGE's Current Read, Sam chats to New York Times bestselling author Ashley Audrain, whose #1 bestselling debut, The Push, has not only been translated into a whopping 38 languages since its release, it's also broken countless barriers for millions of mothers across the world. While we’ve been patiently waiting for the limited tele…
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Episode 100: M O T H E R H O O D! The least/most important job in the world
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2:04:32It's a significant milestone for The Great Equalizer team, as we proudly hit 100 episodes. That's more than 100 hours of talking about the wild ride that is parenting in the 2020s. Sam and Charlene reminisce about where the show started and how it's grown over the years. We also chat about the new levels we've unlocked in motherhood, and how our vi…
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in a thousand different ways by Cecelia Ahern
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50:02In this episode of TGE’s Current Read*, journalist Sam Herbst welcomes Cecelia Ahern bestselling novelist known for romance sensations like PS I Love You and Where Rainbows End (AKA Love, Rosie). Cecelia is arguably one of the most prolific writers of our time, having written a book a year since publishing her debut novel (PS, I Love You) at just 2…
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Feminist, activist, crime author, novelist and Mother – Margie Orford wears many hats and joins Sam Herbst in studio to chat about her memoir, Love & Fury. This is a book that will cut close to the bone for women everywhere. It's at once a tribute to South Africa's incredible history, the invisible work and labour of mothers, and feminists fighting…
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THE LAUREN DICKASON TRAGEDY and IVF care, with Raylene de Villiers (PART II)
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1:12:55On this episode of The Great Equalizer, we continue to unpack maternal mental health in South Africa, against the backdrop of the trial and sentencing of Lauren Dickason and, more specifically, the IVF journey. Lauren Dickason is a mom of three and fellow South African who was convicted in the New Zealand courts for the murder of her three daughter…
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Episode 98: THE LAUREN DICKASON TRAGEDY and maternal mental health, with Raylene de Villiers (PART I)
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49:12In this episode of The Great Equalizer, we focus on maternal mental health in the context of the Dickason tragedy. Lauren Dickason has been in the news for the last two or so years, but more so in recent months when the mom of three and fellow South African was convicted in the New Zealand courts for the murder of her three daughters, Liane (6) and…
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Mom Rage and the Everyday Crisis of Motherhood by Minna Rubin
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1:04:43We have another all-new BONUS episode out today featuring the phenomenal Minna Dubin. Minna is a US-based journalist and author whose essays and articles on motherhood and identity have been featured across all the best known outlets, including the New York Times, The Times, The Philadelphia Enquirer, LitHub, and so much more. Minna is a leading fe…
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BONUS | MOM RAGE! with author Minna Dubin
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1:04:43We have another all-new BONUS episode out today featuring the phenomenal Minna Dubin. Minna is a US-based journalist and author whose essays and articles on motherhood and identity have been featured across all the best known outlets, including the New York Times, The Times, The Philadelphia Enquirer, LitHub, and so much more. Minna is a leading fe…
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KIDS' PICKS! TGE interviews award-winning director of The Smeds & the Smoos, Daniel Snaddon
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54:05In this BONUS episode of The Great Equalizer / TGE's Current Read, your host Samantha Herbst sits down with award-winning animator Daniel Snaddon. Daniel has worked on several highly acclaimed (and well loved) animations, including Roald Dahl's Revolting Rhymes, and a host of animations based on the beloved books of children's book author Julia Don…
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KIDS' PICKS! TGE interviews award-winning director of The Smeds & the Smoos, Daniel Snaddon
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54:05In this BONUS episode of The Great Equalizer / TGE's Current Read, your host Samantha Herbst sits down with award-winning animator Daniel Snaddon. Daniel has worked on several highly acclaimed (and well loved) animations, including Roald Dahl's Revolting Rhymes, and a host of animations based on the beloved books of children's book author Julia Don…
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Episode 97: BARBIE! And the 'messy contradictions of motherhood'
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1:29:28It’s been a hot damn minute, guys and dolls! And not because we’ve been beaching. Nope, our fate has us suffering cold showers, walking in flats, considering the inescapable fate of death, drowning in a few existential crises, and pondering the fact that the patriarchy isn’t actually about horses. In this episode of The Great Equalizer, we’re final…
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Eve: The Disobedient Future of Birth by Claire Horn
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51:42"We are closer than ever to the first pregnancy outside of the human body... but are we ready for the radical future of birth?" Host of TGE's Current Read Sam Herbst chats with author and feminist academic Claire Horn about her book, Eve: The Disobedient Future of Birth. Eve is a radical interrogation of the ethics and future of birth, detailing th…
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Longlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction 2023, Cecile Pin's debut novel Wandering Souls (4th Estate) has clearly made its mark on the southeast Asian diaspora, with glowing author endorsements from the likes of Ocean Vuong (On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous), RF Kuang (Yellowface) and Helena Lee (East Side Voices), among many others. Inspired by …
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Episode 96: BEING SOBER CURIOUS! with author Pamela Power
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1:16:08On this episode of The Great Equalizer, Sam’s lost faith in humanity, Charlene’s gone VIRAL (for all the wrong reasons) and we chat with author Pamela Power about being sober curious and the memoir she wrote about her year of not getting sh*tfaced (aptly titled My Year of Not Getting Sh*tfaced). For Pamela, Mother’s Day 2021 was one for the books (…
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Episode 95: WHAT'S YOUR BINGE, BEBE? Here's what Team TGE is currently streaming
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1:26:07The Great Equalizer is back with another What’s Your Binge? episode, mostly because we wish to give our most tender brains a break from the world’s ugly chaos. You in? Let’s go. Folks, we are GATVOL (tot HIERso) of all the things that have made parenting particularly brutal over the last few months. Things that, btw, have had nothing to do with our…
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