

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

Jan 22, 2025 • 1h 6min
The Good, the Bad, and the Trumpy
The discussion kicks off with a review of Trump's controversial early executive actions and their political fallout. The changing media landscape and strategic executive orders are explored, contrasting the Trump and Biden approaches. Classism in immigration policy surfaces as speakers dissect elite opinions versus public sentiment. Future-proofing businesses takes center stage alongside the implications of racial preference suspensions. Debates around DEI initiatives in education and foreign policy controversies unfold, rounded out by a unique Broadway recommendation.

4 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 1h 14min
You Gotta Take the Good with the Bad
Dive into the whirlwind of Trump's administration right from Day 1! Explore the fallout from controversial pardons issued by both Trump and Biden. Discover the perils of extreme language in political discourse and the cultural rifts shaping America. Delve into the complex dynamics of executive power versus Congress, alongside critiques of economic messaging and media roles. Finally, reflect on the evolution of American populism and the haunting decline of the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, blending historical insights with contemporary challenges.

9 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 1h 19min
Re-President Trump
Amid a whirlwind of news, the hosts explore the significance of a new presidential inauguration. They discuss a public figure's shift towards optimism and how it resonates culturally. There's a deep dive into government failure during crises and how it intersects with fashion and political rhetoric. Anticipated executive orders and electoral dynamics reveal dramatic shifts in party identification. The conversation also critiques Biden's pardons and touches on the psychological tactics in the Israel-Hamas hostage negotiations, emphasizing the complexities of peace.

Jan 17, 2025 • 1h 8min
Hostages, Trump's Vision, and Schumer
Exploring the recent hostage deal, the discussion dives into its impact on Israeli sentiment and the complexities of negotiations with terrorist organizations. As Trump eyes a return to power, the moral implications of his foreign policy loom large. Chuck Schumer's claims about his influence over Biden spark debate about authenticity and strategic motivations within the Democratic Party. Adding cultural context, a film recommendation highlights an Afghan hero's story, revealing the intertwining of personal bravery and political landscapes.

Jan 16, 2025 • 60min
BidenGPT and More on the Deal
The podcast critically analyzes a recent farewell address by the President, suggesting a decline in effective communication and its impact on his legacy. It reflects on the sadness of current political dynamics and the decline of civility in Senate hearings. The discussion then shifts to the complexities of hostage negotiations between Hamas and Israel, exploring prisoner selection disputes and political pressures faced by Israeli leadership. Finally, the emotional toll on society is highlighted, emphasizing the human suffering involved in these ongoing conflicts.

Jan 15, 2025 • 1h 17min
The Wrath of Rothman
A deep dive into the intricate hostage deal between Israel and Hamas reveals significant political implications and moral dilemmas. The discussion shifts to a heated military nomination process, highlighting gender roles and controversies around qualifications. Humor mixes with seriousness as they address military recruitment issues and the growing acceptance of political violence. Historical context is provided by examining the evolution of leftist protest movements, emphasizing the need for a consistent narrative regarding political extremism.

5 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 1h 14min
Bad Deal
The podcast dives into the controversial ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, raising alarms about potential fallout for the Trump administration. It critiques the implications of recent military strategies and examines the emotional toll on Israeli society in the political turmoil. There's also an in-depth discussion on political prosecution, exploring the complexities of presidential misconduct and historical reflections. The mix of heavy topics is lightened with engaging banter about self-care essentials in the winter.

10 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 1h 5min
Progressive Failures, Media Failures
Dive into the revealing discussion about California's governance failures and how they showcase the flaws of progressive ideology. Discover the shifting dynamics of media and its influence on political narratives, alongside the impact of misinformation. The conversation highlights the disconnect between political elites and the public regarding environmental issues. Plus, explore the changing landscape of media consumption and the moral dilemmas surrounding resource management during droughts. It's a thought-provoking look at culture, politics, and accountability.

15 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 1h 6min
Progressives and Fire
Discover the tangled web linking California's policy failures, relentless wildfires, and a century of progressive ideology. The discussion dives into the contrast between how California and Florida manage disasters, revealing media biases. There's a sharp critique of modern progressivism, exposing its shortcomings in addressing real societal issues. Plus, explore the complexities of universal basic income and its impact on essential services like firefighting, all while reflecting on heroes from aviation and beyond.

14 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 1h 6min
Fire Fighting
Severe wildfires in Los Angeles could reshape political dynamics in California. The discussion critiques leadership responses and the balance between environmental policies and public safety. The podcast also highlights the evolution of California's political landscape amidst innovation challenges, like Elon Musk's tunneling project. Additionally, a humorous take on media's role in reporting disasters contrasts with praises for citizen journalism, while a cultural dive into horror films adds depth to the conversation.