Every book Nicholas Cullinan recommended on podcasts

Nicholas Cullinan appears as a guest on analytical and narrative podcasts such as Freakonomics Radio, where cultural institutions, art history, and the societal roles of museums are explored. In an episode titled 635. Can a Museum Be the Conscience of a Nation?, Cullinan discussed art, historical artifacts, and the personal connections people form with significant museum pieces. When explaining the rationale behind choosing the Portland vase as his favorite museum piece, Cullinan revealed his literary tastes and admiration for a notable work of historical fiction. He stated that he is a big fan of Susan Sontag's novel The Volcano Lover. Cullinan explained that he chose the Portland vase partly because of its connection to the novel, noting that Susan Sontag's book is essentially a romantic novel centered around Lord Hamilton, who served as the British ambassador to Naples. By connecting a physical museum artifact to a celebrated work of literature, Cullinan demonstrated how art history and fiction intersect, offering listeners a deeper appreciation for both the artifact and the novel that incorporates it into its narrative framework.