Alexandra Pelosi, journalist and documentary filmmaker, discusses her new documentary on the Capitol insurrection. They explore motivations behind violence, brokenness in America, individual complexity, analyzing Capitol events, the impact of radicalization, and separating perspectives from right-wing media.
Alexandra Pelosi's documentary, 'The Insurrectionist Next Door,' humanizes the individuals who participated in the January 6th Capitol riot, aiming to understand their motivations and experiences.
There is a need for exposure to different perspectives and civil discourse to bridge the deep political divisions and find common ground in American society.
Deep dives
The Impact of the SAG and After Strike
The podcast episode begins with Rosie O'Donnell expressing her delight and pride in the resolution of the SAG and After strike. She gives credit to Fran Drescher, the leader of the negotiating committee. This news allows the discussion to shift towards movies, with Rosie sharing her admiration for the film "Niaad" on Netflix, directed by Jody Foster and starring Annette Bening. Rosie expresses her desire to invite anyone involved with the film to her podcast to discuss their experiences.
Alexandra Pelosi's Documentary on the January 6th Insurrection
The podcast episode introduces guest Alexandra Pelosi, daughter of Nancy and Paul Pelosi, who is known for her exceptional work as a documentarian. Alexandra's latest documentary, "The Insurrectionist Next Door," which explores the January 6th riot at the Capitol, is discussed. Rosie commends Alexandra for her bravery in interviewing those who participated in the event and shares her appreciation for the documentary, suggesting that it should be required viewing before the 2024 elections.
Understanding the Minds of January 6th Rioters
During the podcast conversation, Alexandra Pelosi discusses her motivation for making the documentary and seeking to understand the individuals who took part in the January 6th riot. She shares her belief that many of them had been driven to extremism but also acknowledges the existence of mental health issues among some participants. Through her interviews, Alexandra aimed to humanize these individuals and gain insight into their experiences and perspectives.
Examining the Effects of Media and Political Divisions
The podcast delves into the influence of media on shaping people's beliefs and the impact of political divisions in society. Alexandra Pelosi highlights the existence of echo chambers and the need for people to be exposed to different perspectives and understand each other's humanity. Rosie shares her concerns about the current state of American politics and emphasizes the importance of civil discourse and finding common ground amidst the deep divisions.
Journalist, documentary filmmaker, and friend, Alexandra Pelosi sits down with Rosie to discuss her crucial new documentary, "The Insurrectionist Next Door."
Alexandra, who is the youngest daughter of Nancy and Paul Pelosi, was with the Speaker inside the Capital, on Jan 6, 2021. After witnessing the violent insurrection unfold, Alexandra talked to the people who stormed the building, to ask why, and as a daughter, if given the chance, would they have actually killed her mother?