What Now? with Trevor Noah

Max Chafkin, author and journalist, dives into the enigmatic world of Elon Musk, dissecting whether he’s a genius entrepreneur or a scam artist. The discussion highlights Musk’s journey to becoming the world’s richest person and the influence of the elusive PayPal mafia. They explore the complex ties between tech elites and political dynamics, questioning the authenticity of their advocacy for minimal government. Chafkin also touches on the personal struggles of Musk and others like him, revealing the thin line between ambition and deception.

Scott Galloway, an insightful author, entrepreneur, and professor, dives deep into the crisis facing young men today. He discusses the impact of rejection and resilience on character and the alarming trend of growing loneliness. The conversation critiques the influence of the billionaire class on politics and the 2024 election while addressing socioeconomic disparities in America. Galloway also emphasizes the necessity for male role models and highlights the importance of friendships and parental involvement in shaping boys' futures.

In this lively conversation, sociologist and author Tressie McMillan Cottom dives into the perplexing psychology behind American voters who often back candidates with opposing views. Alongside Trevor Noah, she humorously critiques Donald Trump’s Tesla infomercial and discusses the ways our appreciation for rights can wane before they’re lost. The trio also tackles the intersection of race, class, and gender within party politics, highlighting the contradictions liberals face today, and reflects on the necessity of diverse narratives in shaping modern activism.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, celebrated novelist behind *Half of a Yellow Sun* and *Americanah*, joins a lively discussion on the art of storytelling. She shares insights into the fine balance of humor and seriousness in fiction, especially amidst current societal challenges. The conversation touches on the role of social media in public discourse, the complexities of love and identity shaped by culture, and the transformative power of radical honesty in writing. Adichie also reflects on how fiction can convey deeper truths during times of mistrust.

A joyous celebration unfolds as Christiana welcomes her third child, sparking deep conversations about motherhood and its societal framing. The trio humorously navigates the challenges of parenting, emphasizing community support in managing its trials. They also tackle the pressing issue of exporting Trump’s politics globally and the complex relationship between corruption and success in various countries. Lively anecdotes and reflections on the evolution of family dynamics create a relatable atmosphere for listeners.

Rutger Bregman, a historian and author renowned for challenging our understanding of human nature, joins Trevor and Christiana for an insightful discussion. They debate the innate goodness versus selfishness of humanity, illustrating this with amusing anecdotes, like comparing a toddler's intelligence to that of a pig. The conversation highlights human cooperation during crises, explores the moral implications of wealth, and the evolving nature of societal norms, ultimately promoting a hopeful perspective on progress and kindness.

In a lively discussion with Khaya Dlanga, a prominent South African writer, commentator, and YouTuber, Trevor Noah delves into a world of insightful commentary and humor. They explore the unique balance of being highly active online while remaining genuinely present in life. The conversation touches on the ethics of the insurance industry, personal anecdotes about community and identity, and the complexities of politics. They also reflect deeply on loss, resilience, and the importance of storytelling in understanding societal issues.

Halle Berry, Academy Award-winning actress famous for her roles in Monster's Ball and X-Men, opens up about her transformative journey towards empowering women. She discusses breaking the silence around menopause, emphasizing the need for candid conversations about women's health. Berry shares insights on navigating aging, embracing inner beauty, and the significance of community support. She also explores non-hormonal health options and challenges societal taboos surrounding intimacy, urging women to reclaim their narratives with confidence.

Ruha Benjamin, a Princeton professor and MacArthur Fellow, dives into the complexities of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in academia. She critiques tokenism and discusses the struggle for genuine systemic change. The conversation also explores how privilege shapes empathy and understanding in political contexts. Additionally, they examine innovative approaches to education and the impact of AI on society, highlighting the necessity of diverse perspectives in both fields.

Trevor Noah sits down with Grammy Executive Producer Ben Winston and his friend Sizwe Dhlomo to reveal the challenges behind music's biggest night. Ben shares hilarious anecdotes about miscommunications that almost had Trevor backing out. They dive into Beyoncé's much-anticipated album win and face the complexities of hosting amidst natural disasters like the L.A. fires. The trio also discusses the emotional rollercoaster of live performances and the crucial balance between celebration and solemnity that producers must maintain.