

The Commentary Magazine Podcast
Commentary Magazine
Commentary is America's premier monthly magazine of opinion: General, yet Jewish. Highly variegated, with a unifying perspective.Listen to The Commentary Magazine Podcast, along with more than 40 other original podcasts, at Ricochet.com. No paid subscription required.
Episodes
Mentioned books

12 snips
May 16, 2025 • 1h 2min
Democrats Don't Understand Themselves
The podcast dives into the contradictions within the Democratic Party, revealing how they critique oligarchy while embracing wealth themselves. A discussion on Biden's leadership exposes tensions between party representatives and working-class voters. The humorous, approachable style of Trump is contrasted with the Democrats' serious demeanor, highlighting communication struggles. The evolving economic narratives reflect a disconnect with everyday Americans, while the conservative, bold leadership of Trump challenges the cautious Democratic approach. It's a captivating exploration of identity and strategy!

24 snips
May 15, 2025 • 1h 24min
A Senor Moment
Dan Senor dives into the future of American Jewry in light of the October 7th events, revealing a surge in activism and identity crises. The discussion spans Trump's controversial Middle East trip and its implications for Israel-U.S. relations. They unpack the complexities of Iran's nuclear negotiations and the challenges of anti-Semitism, stressing the crucial role of Jewish education in fostering community and resilience. Plus, a nod to the thoughtful storytelling in the series 'Andor' and its reflections on rebellion and totalitarianism.

16 snips
May 14, 2025 • 1h 8min
Trump's War on the Neocons
The podcast dives into President Trump's influential speech in Saudi Arabia, drawing comparisons to Obama's earlier addresses. The discussion critiques neoconservatism and explores its evolving role in U.S. foreign policy. Insights include the shifting stance toward Iran, the implications of U.S.-Saudi relations, and the moral complexities in military strategies surrounding Israel and Gaza. The hosts also highlight the accountability of Hamas in Gaza's crisis while amusingly analyzing public perceptions of political leaders.

11 snips
May 13, 2025 • 1h 4min
The Trump-Bibi-Qatar-Hamas Game
Tevi Troy, an author and expert on political history, joins to discuss critical issues at the intersection of U.S. foreign policy and healthcare. He sheds light on Trump's recent trip to the Middle East, the complexities of hostage negotiations, and the implications of foreign influences on American ideals. The conversation also navigates the moral dilemmas in international politics, particularly regarding relationships with nations like Qatar and Saudi Arabia, alongside a fascinating critique of pricing strategies in the pharmaceutical industry.

7 snips
May 12, 2025 • 1h 11min
Trump Negotiates with Himself
The discussion kicks off with the complexities of U.S.-China trade relations, including tariff negotiations and strategic political motivations. It delves into the consequences of drug price controls on American healthcare. Foreign policy shifts are examined, particularly regarding Israel, Iran, and Hamas. A controversial claim about Trump's acquisition of a new airplane raises questions about national security and political repercussions. The conversation also touches on historical Zionist movements and their impact on modern politics.

12 snips
May 9, 2025 • 1h 5min
Popes, Pizzas, and Policies
Dive into a delightful discussion about the merits and controversies surrounding deep-dish pizza, with a spirited debate pitting Chicago against New York and Detroit. Nostalgic baseball memories add flavor, reflecting on the joys of Wrigley Field. The conversation shifts gears to serious topics, examining the impact of protests on campuses and the balance between free speech and accountability. Explore the complexities of cultural leadership and the revival of live theater, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in today's society.

5 snips
May 8, 2025 • 1h 7min
A Perilous Week Ahead
Jonathan Schanzer, an expert on Middle Eastern affairs and an author at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, discusses current geopolitical tensions involving Iran, the Houthis, and Israel. He highlights the complexities of negotiations and the influence of foreign powers like Qatar on U.S. politics and academia. The conversation dives into controversial topics, including activism on campuses and the response to cultural representation events. Schanzer emphasizes the urgent need for transparency and effective policies to navigate these precarious international relationships.

21 snips
May 7, 2025 • 1h 10min
Events, Dear Boy, Events
Tensions between India and Pakistan are heating up, with potential global ramifications. The speakers delve into the shifting alliances involving the U.S. and how these dynamics are impacted by nuclear capabilities. They also analyze the unpredictable maneuvers of the Trump administration in the Middle East and the influence of unexpected events on diplomatic strategies. Additionally, discussions touch on Saudi Arabia's complex foreign policy and the looming threat of nuclear arms development in the region.

14 snips
May 6, 2025 • 1h 6min
Lights! Camera! Tariffs!
The discussion kicks off with a bold proposal for a 100% tariff on foreign films, raising questions about the cultural and economic impact on the movie industry. It highlights the challenges faced by California filmmakers amid international market pressures, especially from China. The conversation then shifts to the Houthis conflict in Yemen, examining U.S. foreign policy and military interventions. Lastly, the podcast touches on the complexities of the Israel-Gaza conflict and the portrayal of various narratives surrounding it.

14 snips
May 5, 2025 • 1h 7min
Trump Meets the Press
The podcast delves into Donald Trump's recent appearance on 'Meet the Press', analyzing his economic messaging and possible political moves for 2028. The discussion also explores the dynamics of GOP contenders and Trump's influence on their campaigns. Additionally, the escalating threat from Houthi forces is examined, particularly their regional impact and the challenges facing U.S. military strategy. Finally, the conversation touches on John Fetterman's media portrayal amidst pressing political controversies.