I was just researching something for another article I was thinking of writing - about writing groups - the blind leading the blind.

I then discarded the idea on the basis that it would just upset people.

I don't read to discover people's identity, who they are, or how they feel. I read to find out what the climate is doing, how the sysems can be improved, what is happening in the world around us, etc. This has nothing to do with the personal stuff in people's lives.

I also don't consider it brave to write - I consider it brave to venture out to fight a forest fire or venture out to rescue someone who is drowning.

That said, it is really interesting what you said about podcasts. I don't read critics. In fact, if a critic thinks something is awful, I know from long experience, I will enjoy it.