What Now? with Trevor Noah

Tressie McMillan Cottom, a New York Times columnist known for her sharp insights on political issues, joins the discussion with Trevor and friends to dissect a heated presidential debate. They analyze Trump’s preparation and the surprising strategies of Kamala Harris, exploring her impactful moments that echoed Trump's style. The conversation tackles the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party, the role of social media in shaping perceptions, and the implications of political identity in today’s discourse.

The hosts dive into Elon Musk's clash with the Brazilian government, sparking a lively debate on his worldview. They explore the emotional struggles of powerful white men feeling increasingly powerless. The conversation also touches on the societal impact of billionaires like Musk and Trump, questioning traditional norms of success. Humor is used to dissect the shifting power dynamics and how they manifest in modern comedy, while reflecting on the challenges of influencing influential figures in today's cultural landscape.

Join Trevor Noah and Anne Helen Petersen, a talented author and journalist known for her sharp insights on culture, as they dive into the intriguing #tradwife phenomenon. They explore why some women are embracing traditional roles while questioning the implications for personal autonomy. The conversation tackles topics like balancing motherhood with career ambitions, the societal pressures women face today, and the resurgence of domestic arts as a response to modern challenges. Expect laughs, poignant reflections, and a deep look at evolving femininity.

Join a lively discussion on mandatory world travel, where the hosts debate its potential to broaden horizons and enhance cultural appreciation. Laugh along as they explore the power of pettiness in conflict resolution, highlighting absurd disputes from neighbors to nations. They also challenge the notion of friendliness in customer service, advocating for competence and well-being instead. The dialogue whimsically examines leadership balance, questioning whether charisma or effectiveness should take precedence.

In this engaging discussion, Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist and Wharton professor, teams up with Trevor Noah to tackle the challenge of staying true to one's values. They explore the power of open dialogue in reducing prejudice and enhancing empathy. The conversation dives deep into how constructive conflicts can foster creativity, especially in children, and the importance of addressing the effects of smartphone distractions on relationships. Adam even humorously suggests Trevor may have missed his calling, proving that wit and wisdom go hand in hand!

Trevor and friends dive into the fascinating world of the Olympics, unearthing mixed feelings from Parisians about the event. They discuss the oddities of 3-on-3 basketball and share amusing personal anecdotes while steering clear of the tourist-heavy chaos. The conversation reflects on the unrealistic pressures of athletic success, especially regarding Simone Biles' emphasis on mental health. They celebrate the Olympics' ability to unite people, even from a distance, while also questioning the cultural significance in today's fast-paced society.

Jory Craig, a renowned disinformation expert and senior fellow at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, dives deep into the complexities of misinformation in politics and digital media. He emphasizes how political powers manipulate information channels to forward their agendas. The discussion covers the impact of misinformation on marginalized communities, the challenges of parenting in a tech-centric world, and the need for greater accountability from social media platforms. Listeners will glean insights on navigating this nuanced landscape and promoting truth.

Sociologist Tressie McMillan Cottom, a MacArthur Fellow and NYT columnist, joins the conversation to dissect the ramifications of Biden's exit from the presidential race and Kamala Harris's rise. They humorously compare political shifts to universal temptations, while exploring the complexities of political narratives and endorsements. Tressie highlights the powerful collective voice of 44,000 Black women advocating for leadership, shedding light on the systemic challenges they face. Together, they examine the transformative potential of having a Black woman in a key government position.

In this discussion, Jody Avirgan, Executive Producer known for his insightful commentary, joins Trevor and Christiana to dive into the recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump. They explore the media's chaotic response and how sensationalism shapes public perception. The trio reflects on the troubling rise of political violence and its implications for American society. They also contemplate the psychological aftermath and how such events impact voter behavior and political messaging, raising questions about learning from history and confronting fears.

Questlove, renowned musician and cultural commentator, chats with Trevor about essential topics like the recent Grammy celebration marking 50 years of hip-hop and insights from his book, Hip Hop is History. They delve into the logistical juggernaut behind the Grammy performance and share personal anecdotes, including the wild dynamics of his legendary game nights. Questlove also reflects on the evolution of hip-hop, the intertwining of personal and societal issues, and the emotional power of music, revealing the joy found in connection and storytelling.