Humans make the world,
and we can remake it anytime.
What rough beast slouches towards Bethlehem to be born?
What Rough Beast, hosted by Virginia Heffernan (Wired, Trumpcast) and Stephen Metcalf (Slate, Culture Gabfest) is a podcast where we bear witness to America’s demise, and ask what might be built from the rubble. The sludge. The sparkly phosphorescent faerie dust of recombinant DNA.
It is a spiritual successor to Trumpcast, but with a radical reimagining. Instead of focusing on opposing Trump or trusting institutions, this podcast explores imaginative, unexpected responses to our current political moment. The show takes inspiration from the '68ers' motto "all power to the imagination" and seeks unconventional solutions beyond traditional political frameworks.
What People Are Saying
“ Clear fresh water in a desert. Deeply and respectfully affirming. IMO this is essential for anyone who thinks, and feels, and cares.”
“You are providing an opportunity for thinkers, those unable to think, and chronic worriers, to come together and mop up some of the murkiness. Blessings on you!”
“Where could I turn to hear a discussion of current events that acknowledges the horrible disorientation and tragic wonder I feel? What Rough Beast to the rescue. This podcast is a dream come true..”
— Apple Podcasts listener
“I want to be a part of this community and these conversations.”
Contact Us
Got an idea for the show? Want to be a guest? Drop us a line.