Adam Gopnik

Steve Martin, the award-winning comedian and multifaceted artist, joins prolific New Yorker writer Adam Gopnik for an insightful conversation. They discuss the art of finding authenticity through imitation, exploring how personal experiences shape humor and creativity. Their banter touches on mastering comedy, the importance of failure, and the balancing act between success and meaningful friendships. Listeners will enjoy their rapid-fire insights that reveal how embracing new opportunities can lead to unexpected artistic growth.

Adam Gopnik, a staff writer at The New Yorker known for his cultural insights, explores the surprising intersections of Donald Trump's influence on American cultural institutions. He discusses how Trump's actions—like firing key leaders in the arts—reflect a deeper political agenda rather than mere distractions. Gopnik warns against authoritarian control over artistic expression, drawing chilling parallels to historical regimes. The conversation emphasizes the critical need for pluralism and inclusive dialogue to safeguard democracy in a polarized society.

In a lively discussion, Adam Gopnik, a Staff writer for The New Yorker known for his essays and books, shares insights from his latest work, exploring the concept of mastery. He vividly illustrates lessons from various masters, including chefs debating seasonality and the philosophical nuances of magic. The conversation touches on personal anecdotes about familial relationships and the emotional journey of self-discovery. Gopnik emphasizes that mastery is not just about skill but a deeper engagement with creativity across disciplines.

Adam Gopnik, a staff writer at The New Yorker, dives into the seismic shift in Canadian politics with the resignation of Justin Trudeau after nearly ten years in office. He analyzes the factors behind Trudeau's plummeting popularity, including housing crises and pandemic fallout. Gopnik discusses the rise of Pierre Poilievre and how his far-right rhetoric mirrors Trump's MAGA movement. They explore the implications for Canadian identity and the potential radical shift in the country's political landscape.

Nathan Myhrvold, founder of Modernist Cuisine and author of Modernist Pizza, shares his insightful tests debunking pizza myths related to water and oven types. He reveals the intriguing history of pizza in America and the truth behind the Margherita story. Alongside Adam Gopnik, a New Yorker staff writer, they discuss modern food identities and navigating diverse dietary restrictions. Their conversation emphasizes accessible home pizza-making and the importance of accommodating various eating preferences in family meals.

Adam Gopnik, a Staff writer at The New Yorker, dives deep into the culture wars ignited by Donald Trump. He discusses how Trump's actions target fundamental cultural institutions like the Smithsonian and the John F. Kennedy Center, indicating a concerning shift towards authoritarianism. Gopnik warns that these moves aren't just distractions but part of a larger agenda that threatens democratic pluralism. He draws unsettling parallels to historical regimes, emphasizing the need for vigilance in protecting artistic freedom and diversity.

Analysis of the parallels between Trump and Hitler's authoritarian behavior, exploring charismatic leadership and manipulation tactics. The podcast delves into psychological motivations driving political figures, warning about the dangers of authoritarianism and the importance of vigilance in protecting democracy.

Join award-winning actor and comedian Steve Martin, alongside prolific New Yorker writer Adam Gopnik, as they dive into the quest for authenticity in creative expression. They discuss how imitating one's role models can help in finding a unique voice and share humorous insights about the surprising nature of hearing one's own recorded voice. The conversation also touches on embracing failure as a stepping stone to mastery and the vital role of friendship in the creative process. Get inspired to explore new artistic horizons!

A few years ago, Adam Gopnik, a longtime writer for The New Yorker and three-time winner of the National Magazine Award, started thinking about all the things he wasn't good at. He couldn't dance the foxtrot or bake a brioche. Well into his 50s, he still had no idea how to drive a car. To make matters worse, when he looked around, he saw people who could do these things — often with great skill. How, he wondered, did they do it? How do any of us get good at the things we're good at? And how do some of us become next-level masters? To answer those questions, Adam set out to master the skills he lacked, and he has written up the results in a profound little book, "The Real Work: On the Mystery of Mastery." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Rockwell, a world-renowned architect known for his stylish restaurant designs, shares insider secrets about what makes a dining space work. He highlights the crucial details like lighting and layout, and recalls iconic projects like Sushi Zen. Nathalie Cooke takes us through the whimsical evolution of menus, exploring their history and modern trends. Adam Gopnik pays homage to culinary legends while embracing the emotional aspects of cooking. The conversation is rich with humorous anecdotes and practical cooking tips, creating a vibrant tapestry of culinary art.