For nearly two decades, Tim Friede has subjected himself to bites from some of the deadliest snakes on the planet, aiming to cultivate an immunity that could potentially lead to a universal antivenom. This remarkable and harrowing endeavor, pursued by a window cleaner lacking formal scientific education in his Wisconsin basement, has brought Friede, now 58, to the brink of death, nearly cost him his leg and fingers, and even resulted in a coma at one point. However, as climate change increases interactions between humans and snakes, his groundbreaking work may benefit many others. “People thought I was insane, naturally. Some even attempted to dissuade me,” he recounted in an exceptional interview with Oliver Milman.
Despite the challenges and the complications they pose to performing, numerous prominent figures in the music industry are opting to don unusual facial masks. In a compelling article, Matt Mills explored the significance behind these disguises, questioning whether musicians are using them to conceal their identities or, conversely, to unveil their authentic selves.
In the latest installment of our Well Actually series, Jo Livingstone engaged in a discussion with a former U.S. military psychologist about the concept of moral injury—a distinct type of psychological distress that arises when individuals are compelled to act against their core beliefs or witness actions that violate their ethical standards. During this intriguing conversation, Michael Valdovinos shared insights into how moral distress often manifests as feelings of sadness or a sense of personal failure.
Annually, approximately 400,000 international students receive study visas to the UK, with universities depending on these overseas applicants to pay full tuition fees. However, this reliance has led to the emergence of unscrupulous recruiters, leaving many prospective students and their families burdened with significant debt. In a detailed Guardian Long Read, journalist Samira Shackle investigated the role of education agents—intermediaries hired by universities to attract foreign students.
“I tend to steer clear of politics because I believe the public isn’t particularly interested in the political views of someone from a public school background. Engaging in polemics doesn’t sit well with me. People are fatigued by it. After years of a Conservative government, they don’t want a Conservative comedian… not that I am one. I’m certainly not. But the perception is that I have a Conservative…” He trails off. “Bloodline?” I offer. “Background,” he clarifies, resolutely.
Zoe Williams interviewed an actor and comedian who is developing a new stand-up routine and preparing to host the UK adaptation of Saturday Night Live.
Rachel Waters administered morphine to her terminally ill mother to provide comfort in her last moments, only to find herself facing a murder charge. In an emotional interview, she shared with Madeleine Aggeler her determination to advocate for her narrative, hoping to prevent others from experiencing a similar ordeal. “I want my story to be known, and for people to understand who I am,” she stated. “That is the only way I can seek justice for my mother.”
