In the context of the podcast medium, it is noteworthy that the co-hosts, Stuart and William, do not preview listener-submitted inquiries prior to the commencement of recording. This practice ensures that their responses remain unpremeditated and genuine, thereby preserving the spontaneity and authenticity of their commentary.

So the first listener question is from Teresita, Montevideo, Uruguay - “The Internet isn’t good here sometimes but listen to your new releases on the day you go live when I can. When were the “good old days,” and what were they like for minorities in your country?”

The notion of “good old days” is often subject to critical analysis. William suggests that this concept typically aligns with one’s childhood, a period characterised by a lack of awareness of global events.

Conversely, Stuart immediately contests the existence of any universally “good old days,” highlighting the historical marginalisation of minority groups. He articulates that the journey towards amplifying marginalised voices is ongoing and fraught with challenges.

Stuart and William also touch upon the emergence of new identity categories, reflecting a societal trend towards valuing individuality and uniqueness. They ultimately advocate for an individual-centric approach to identity.

Regarding the query posed by Teresita, both Stuart and William acknowledge their limitations in providing a comprehensive response, given that neither identifies as part of a minority group.

Bea, from Cornwall, England sets the second question today - “House’s are now seen as assets, not as homes, which is contributing to our unequal society in the UK, especially here in the far south west. Left unchecked this would run and run and really undermine us. The poor are partly kept poor as they seem to work to keep the rich rich. Any thoughts?”

Stuart, ever the real estate romantic, believes houses are more than just assets—they’re the stage for our personal soap operas. He’s spotted a trend in the South West: it’s not just the pasties that are hot, but the property prices too, thanks to the ‘seasonal seasoning’ of the area.

Meanwhile, William is all for a population shuffle. He’s convinced that if we all just moved around a bit more, we’d find the perfect balance—like a game of musical chairs, but with postcodes.

Stuart’s having an existential moment, pondering how to stop treating houses like giant piggy banks. He’s asking deep questions, like ‘Do you see your home as a sanctuary or a stock option?’ He’s also reminding us that in the grand game of Monopoly, sometimes life flips the board.

William’s expanding the asset universe, suggesting we gaze at our dwellings as homes first, investment portfolios second. He’s also musing on society’s pecking order, hinting that breaking free from the family fortune—or misfortune—requires a zen-like approach to life. Just live, he says, and maybe don’t count the bedrooms.

What do you make of this discussion? Do you have a question that you'd like us to discuss? Let us know by sending an email to ⁠thepeoplescountryside@gmail.com

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This podcast's overall themes are nature, philosophy, climate, the human condition, sustainability, and social justice.

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