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Dept. of (my) History: The Last Lecture

Dept. of (my) History: The Last Lecture

I don't usually write in memoir, but my dad's retirement, at the age of 88, made me think about how the generations look differently at the concept, and whether it's okay to retire 30 years before your father. Here, then, is a conversation full of questions and received wisdom ...
The Fast-Talking Billionaire

The Fast-Talking Billionaire

It's not surprising that Greg Lindberg has his eyes on longevity. Accused of pilfering $2 billion from policyholders at his insurance companies, the 53-year-old faces being in jail until he's 90. But that hasn't dimmed his enthusiasm for his latest venture: Living forever through fasting.
Coronation Day: Macy’s Meets Oasis

Coronation Day: Macy’s Meets Oasis

May 6 — I'm in London this rainy morning. And watching the coronation is a little like watching the Macy's Day Parade, if it was hosted by the Church of England. No one is lip syncing Frozen. But it still feels over the top. William & Harry are the Liam and Noel Galligher of Buckingham Palace — with William as Noel doing both parts...
The Botanist Is A Plant Podcast

The Botanist Is A Plant Podcast

Looking for a good 18th Century spy story? This podcast is based on my story in the July/August issue of Smithsonian Magazine.
Cardinals Have No Teeth — and other things you learn birdwatching online

Cardinals Have No Teeth — and other things you learn birdwatching online

I realized I had to change my browser preferences so Google News isn't the first thing I see. Instead...
New: Why Can’t We All Be Friends?

New: Why Can’t We All Be Friends?

A podcast discussion, based on the adjacent piece, about the future of reconciliation in America.