Archive - Don't Pretend We're Dead

"I realized why this harmful side of beauty culture isn't really talked about”

Beauty critic Jessica DeFino on the challenge of critiquing the beauty industry, the rebranding of skincare as self-care, the worst beauty trends and…

Jun 6 •

and

33:18

March 2025

"Innovation can exacerbate inequalities in society"

Listen now | Dr. Moupali Das on leading breakthrough research into a new drug for HIV prevention, the impact this could have for women—and the ongoing…

Mar 11 •

37:54

February 2025

"I'm interested in understanding history, culture and evolution—and I use food as my vehicle"

Chef and author Marie Mitchell on connecting to her Caribbean ancestry via cooking, respecting vs appropriating a cuisine, and how food has everything…

Feb 19 •

43:27

January 2025

"Good writing never ever feels preachy"

Listen now (33 mins) | Talking with Ugandan writer and former UN official Ruth Mukwana about fiction as a tool for advocacy and authors who've changed…

Jan 18 •

33:13

After Giséle Pelicot, now what?

It's been 3 weeks since the verdict was announced. What will this lead to?

Jan 8 •

December 2024

On the simple joy of watching Sheila E. shred on the drums

So yes, today is the great Sheila E.’s birthday… Ms.

Dec 12, 2024 •

On Nikki Giovanni and the writing that got you through high school

I was sad to hear that the great American poet Nikki Giovanni passed away this week.

Dec 11, 2024 •

On Joan Jett, The Runaways, rejection, and disruptive female sexuality

"They’re not used to girls using their sexuality in a way that they feel they own it.”

Dec 7, 2024 •

So what's up with the name of your Substack, Don't Pretend We're Dead?

Well, it comes from one of my favorite songs, written by the awesome cofounder of the band L7, Ms.

Dec 6, 2024 •

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