Jon Ronson on curiosity, compassion, and the stories that shape us

Jon Ronson on curiosity, compassion, and the stories that shape us

Author: Kate Thornton May 23, 2025 Duration: 55:04

Joining us this week is a master of observation – an author, journalist and documentarian whose work has delved into the furthest margins of modern life. From conspiracy theorists to the inner world of psychopaths, his stories always keep one foot in the world of misfits and outsiders. It’s the brilliant Jon Ronson!


In this episode, Jon reflects on his remarkable journey from a bullied teen in Cardiff to one of the most distinctive non-fiction storytellers of our time. He shares how a squatting stint in London and a chance role in the Frank Sidebottom band helped him find his tribe, and how a single regretful sentence written in his twenties changed his entire approach to journalism.


Jon also reflects on how being fired from a local Manchester radio station became a painful but pivotal moment that reshaped both his career path and creative outlook. He goes on to explore how his work has evolved alongside the shifting media landscape – from his early days at Smash Hits, to creating the acclaimed BBC podcast Things Fell Apart – and shares why he remains optimistic about the future of factual storytelling, even in the age of AI.


Tickets for Psychopath Night, Jon’s latest live UK tour, are available now. You can also catch up on both series of Things Fell Apart on BBC Sounds.


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There’s a particular kind of conversation that happens after a glass or two of wine, where guards come down and real stories emerge. That’s the atmosphere White Wine Question Time captures so perfectly. Hosted by Kate Thornton, each episode gathers well-known friends for a relaxed yet revealing chat, structured around three thoughtful questions and, of course, a shared bottle. What unfolds is less a formal interview and more a glimpse into the genuine friendships behind the public personas. You’ll hear laughter, unexpected confessions, and perspectives on culture, society, and current events that rarely make the headlines. This podcast thrives in the space between entertainment and intimate disclosure, often veering into comedy as these candid discussions unfold. With a vast back catalogue of over 450 episodes, each one feels like pulling up a chair to a fascinating table. Whether you start with the latest release or browse the extensive archive, you’re guaranteed a listen that’s as engaging and relevant as it is genuinely enjoyable.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

White Wine Question Time
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