Fireside Chats During a Coup

One of the first things I learned when I started to record podcasts was just how lonely it was in the studio. This was a strange dynamic that took me some time to get accustomed to: having an intimate conversation with a guest that would be listened to by thousands at a later date. How would the conversation sound to so many different ears, in so many different contexts? What worked, and what didn’t? Over time I’ve come to get a better sense of how to guide these conversations, but podcasting can still be a lonely art, without ever quite knowing where the work is landing. That is why feedback like the following is just so heartwarming and inspiring. During these difficult times, it’s nice to know that something we’re doing is having a positive effect.

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“Dear Insight Myanmar team,

I was not very interested in meditation and religious practices since it used to seem to me that meditators and other people learning spiritual practices from the East are too much into their own well-being and do not really care about what is going on in the world and do not spend time to actually help the people. Plus I didn't know they are as open-minded and in touch with reality as you are.

My view changed since I started to listen to your podcast, and especially since the coup happened, your podcast is one of the things that truly helps me stay sane here, and I am thankful from the bottom of my heart for your work.

I admire so many things about your podcast. Starting from your genuine care towards the people of Myanmar, your bravery showing your own feelings and vulnerability during the episodes, to the fact that you are so open minded as to include Burmese punk rock songs into your soundtrack. I love it all so much and I feel not alone when I am listening to you guys.

Thank you a thousand times for what you are doing.”