What Now? with Trevor Noah

Trevor welcomes Esther Perel, an internationally renowned couples therapist, to discuss the intricacies of modern relationships. They explore the rollercoaster ride of love, addressing everything from finding the perfect partner to weathering storms together. Esther highlights the shift in therapy's perception, encouraging proactive approaches for growth. They tackle the balance of autonomy and togetherness, and how self-awareness shapes intimacy. With humor and real-life insights, they redefine meaningful connections in an age of digital dating.

Malcolm Gladwell, an insightful author and journalist known for works like 'The Tipping Point', joins the discussion to explore tight values versus loose ideas. He emphasizes adapting beliefs through new evidence and the importance of cultural heritage, sparked by his Nigerian ancestry. The conversation touches on the influence of television on societal understanding, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ representation. Malcolm also critiques meritocracy in Harvard admissions and celebrates the unity formed through diverse experiences, like playing soccer.

Joining Trevor Noah is Tressie McMillan Cottom, a sociologist, writer, and professor known for her sharp insights into social issues. They dive into the emotional aftermath of a surprising election outcome, debating whether Trump truly won or Harris lost. The conversation flows from the parallels between sports and political strategies to the cultural impacts of this election, while also highlighting the significance of music in reflecting emotions. Cottom’s analysis of political narratives and engagement rounds out a lively discussion on leadership's role in shaping future elections.

Tressie McMillan Cottom, a sociologist and author, breaks down the whirlwind of the final week before the US presidential election. She delves into why some voter groups back candidates against their own interests and the emotional toll of political affiliation. The conversation touches on the complex dynamics of voting within relationships and explores shifting demographics among Black and Hispanic voters. They also discuss the implications of Tucker Carlson’s controversial remarks and the broader effects of parenting debates on political tensions.

Lupita Nyong’o, an Academy Award-winning actress celebrated for her roles in 12 Years a Slave and Black Panther, joins the conversation. She discusses her new podcast that explores vibrant stories from the African diaspora. The trio dives into the debate of national pride among African countries, sharing personal anecdotes about accents and the emotional journey of cultural identity. They highlight the power of authentic storytelling and its role in fostering empathy and representation within communities, revealing the intricate connections between personal narratives and cultural experiences.

In a lively discussion, children debate who cries more—adults or kids. Perspectives on childhood reveal the unique insights children have about life, parenting, and their parents' imperfections. Hilarious and heartfelt anecdotes illustrate the complexities of parent-child relationships. The importance of recognizing kids' emotional needs in a rapidly changing world is emphasized. Unfiltered thoughts from the kids spark conversations about childhood curiosity and the significance of cultural legacies in shaping family bonds.

Bestselling author Ta-Nehisi Coates, known for his powerful insights on race and history, joins the conversation to delve into how stories shape our realities. He discusses the ethical complexities of advocacy for marginalized communities, the dehumanization of Black and Arab populations, and the implications of military actions. Coates also addresses the impact of book banning on education and highlights the significance of diverse narratives in connecting cultures, especially relating to the global black diaspora.

Trevor speaks with Yuval Noah Harari, a historian and bestselling author known for "Sapiens" and his recent work, "Nexus." They dive into the paradox of human intelligence amid our folly. The conversation explores how misinformation impacts democracy and the significance of truth in politics. They discuss the promises and risks of AI, including bias and ethical concerns. Harari also reflects on identity, nationalism, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, stressing the need for dialogue and understanding in a polarized world.

In this enlightening discussion, journalist and author Michael Pollan, renowned for his expertise on food and consciousness, dives deep into the world of therapeutic psychedelics. He shares compelling insights about their potential to transform lives and aid in facing mortality. The conversation tackles societal misconceptions, the importance of informed dialogue, and personal experiences that highlight psychedelics’ therapeutic uses. From navigating adolescent exposure to the challenges of psychedelic-assisted therapy, Pollan emphasizes the profound impact these substances can have on mental health.

Rajan Datar, a travel journalist for the BBC, joins the conversation to explore the deep complexities of modern tourism. He discusses the growing resentment locals feel towards tourists and cultural clashes that arise from overtourism. Datar also highlights how commoditized tourism impacts authenticity in travel experiences. The chat dives into responsible tourism practices, offering case studies from cities like Copenhagen. Notably, they tackle the ethical implications of travel, suggesting creative solutions to manage overcrowding and foster genuine engagement with local cultures.