S4 Ep6: From Meadow to Metropolis: Mapping a World of Sound with Michaela Vieser
About this episode
Jerry Brotton interviews nature and travel writer Michaela Vieser about her interactive sound map and its connection to her new book.
In this episode, Jerry meets with acclaimed nature and travel writer Michaela Vieser. The focus of their conversation is an interactive map that charts 98 distinct sounds and silences from around the globe. The creation of this geographical sound archive is connected to her new book co-written with Isaac Yuen, The Sound Atlas: A Guide to Strange Sounds Across Landscapes and Imagination. From the swaying, lush meadows of the Altai Mountains, to the unique jingles at Tokyo’s train stations, Michaela guides Jerry through a selection of her favourites on this auditory adventure. Together, they discuss the temporal nature of sound, the vulnerability of the changing landscapes in which they were recorded, and the emotional and physical experience of listening. From historians, scientists and writers to creatives and cultural custodians, people have used maps as a source of knowledge, guidance, and inspiration for centuries. Join us in this award winning podcast (Gold in Education at the British Podcast Awards 2025) as Jerry Brotton invites a guest to share a map close to their heart - and unfurl the ideas, inspirations, and stories behind it. If you’re fascinated by history, art…
More episodes of What's Your Map?
- S5 Ep4: Un-Bordering the Map with Rohini Rai
- S5 Ep2: The Beauty of Blue with Richard Pegg
- S5 Ep1: The Explorer from the Home of the Giants with Cecilie Skog
- What's Your Map? returns on March 25 with Season 5!
- S4 Ep5: Out of the Cave: Encounters and Anima with Jago Cooper
- S4 Ep4: Smuggling Silk: WWII Escape Maps with Dr. Barbara A. Bond
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