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The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling

The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling

By: The Free Press
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About this listen

 The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling is an audio documentary that examines some of the most contentious conflicts of our time through the life and career of the world’s most successful author. In conversation with host Megan Phelps-Roper, J.K. Rowling speaks with unprecedented candor and depth about the controversies surrounding her—from book bans to debates on gender and sex. The series also examines the forces propelling this moment in history, through interviews with Rowling’s supporters and critics, journalists, historians, clinicians, and more. Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Trailer

    Trailer
    Feb 14 2023
    The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling premieres Tuesday, February 21, 2023. Learn more Read an essay by host Megan Phelps-Roper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    2 mins
  • Chapter 1: Plotted In Darkness

    Chapter 1: Plotted In Darkness
    Feb 21 2023
    Host Megan Phelps-Roper writes a letter to J.K. Rowling—and receives a surprising invitation in reply: the opportunity for an intimate conversation in Rowling’s Scottish home. Produced by Andy Mills, Matthew Boll, and Megan Phelps-Roper, with special thanks to Candace Mittel Kahn and Emily Yoffe. This show is proudly sponsored by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression. FIRE believes free speech makes free people. Learn more at thefire.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    47 mins
  • Chapter 2: Burn The Witch

    Chapter 2: Burn The Witch
    Feb 21 2023
    As "Harry Potter" becomes an international phenomenon, it coincides with the culture wars of the 1990s. In the backlash from Christians across America, author J.K. Rowling is accused of mainstreaming witchcraft and poisoning children’s minds. Produced by Andy Mills, Matthew Boll, and Megan Phelps-Roper, with special thanks to Candace Mittel Kahn and Emily Yoffe. This show is proudly sponsored by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression. FIRE believes free speech makes free people. Learn more at thefire.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    56 mins
All stars
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Balanced and well researched podcast that highlights the many facets of this complex topic. It really dives into the nuances of this debate. We need more journalism like this.

I had high expectations and they were well and truly exceeded.

Thought provoking

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I'm more confused than ever before, but I think that's okay. Actually it probably even a good thing and the point of the podcast.

It is slow and meandering at times, which some people will not like, but I liked that about it. I think it was balanced and exploratory.

Balanced and exploratory

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This was extremely interesting listening. Intelligent and thoughtful comments from all involved. We need more conversations as civilised and nuanced as this.

Thought provoking

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Well worth listening to - really interesting insight into both sides of the trans gender debate.

Fascinating Insight

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A great podcast, really interesting. Good to get a balanced reasonable exploration of all sides allowing listeners to actually listen and consider.

Interesting and balanced

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thought-provoking, intelligent, and a genuine discussion about what it means to be attacked for your beliefs. bravo to the journalist for allowing all sides of the story to be heard.

balanced the way good journalism should be

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Taking the time to listen to the full series without judgement was time well spent. I have a better understanding of both sides of the issue-both sides were well presented.
A really well produced podcast.

Thoughtful, thorough and thought-provoking

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Interesting… loved how both sides of this debate were discussed; and there are valid points on both sides.
I think it was incredibly brave for JK (along with many other women) to speak up for women’s rights, especially in a cancel culture. They stood up for what they believe and that’s never easy.
It is concerning though that a persons views (especially if their views do not match up with your own) meets with loss of jobs and livelihoods and even death threats. There is just so much hate, it’s so sad.
Reasonable discussion and sharing personal views in a safe space, seem as fictional as Harry Potter.

Interesting

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This podcast is a really nuanced piece of journalism. I really don't think it leant into a side, but gave a thorough overview of the each side and the context that led to this moment in time. It felt like a thoroughly updated version of Jon Ron's So You've Been Publicly Shamed and offered insight into internet culture, who has the perceived right to speak and why, and the harmful way we have of debating now, which is not to debate at all but to silence, shame and cancel. The interview with Noah in the second last episode is one of the best interviews I've ever heard.

Not what expected - much, much better

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Well thought out and narrated. Gives you an insight to both sides of the argument, which is not that common these days.

Outstanding

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