The Brian Lehrer Show

The holiday spirit comes alive as online business owners promote their unique gifts, fostering community support. Creative ideas for weddings and holidays take center stage, showcasing personalized services that make special occasions unforgettable. Artists share their handmade creations, from celebrity-inspired cat figurines to innovative multilingual jewelry. Plus, discover the affordability of pre-owned high-end carbon fiber road bikes for fitness enthusiasts, and get inspired by local business stories, including an Indian cooking kit and handcrafted socks.

David Rohde, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and national security editor at NBC News, discusses the significant implications of Kash Patel's potential appointment as FBI director during Trump's presidency. He reveals how this reflects a troubling climate within the FBI and Justice Department, where fears of retaliation loom large for those speaking out against Trump. Rohde also tackles the impact of misinformation on democracy, analyzing how propaganda affects public beliefs and emphasizing the urgent need for factual journalism in these politically charged times.

Georgina Gustin, a reporter specializing in agriculture and food systems for Inside Climate News, discusses Brooke Rollins' controversial appointment as the new Agriculture Secretary. They dive into the challenges farmers face due to climate change and the implications of a climate skeptic in leadership. The conversation highlights the agricultural sector's role in greenhouse gas emissions and examines the paradox farmers encounter when political choices clash with the reality of extreme weather impacts on their livelihoods.

Domenico Montanaro, NPR's senior political editor/correspondent, talks about the latest national political news from over the holiday weekend and looks back at the election results, now that the final demographic breakdowns are in.

Timothy Snyder, a Yale history professor and author known for his insights on tyranny and freedom, tackles the history of fascism from its origins in the 1920s to today's political climate. He discusses the precarious balance between freedom and chaos, emphasizing the necessity of organization to prevent authoritarianism. Snyder reflects on the resurgent fascism seen through figures like Hitler and Mussolini and its relevance to modern governance, particularly amid the influence of oligarchs in politics. Personal narratives further enrich this exploration of how history shapes current events.

Jenny Fox, children's book editor and author and the co-founder of Librarians = Literacy, calls for the New York City Department of Education to provide more schools with librarians and supports a new City Council bill to track the data.

Three of our favorite segments from the week, in case you missed them.100 Years of 100 Things: Shirley Chisholm (First) | Daniel Penny's Subway Chokehold Trial Nears the End (Starts at 41:34) | Shop Listener 2024: Brick and Mortar Stores  (Starts at 1:01:55)If you don't subscribe to the Brian Lehrer Show on iTunes, you can do that here.

Join cultural critic Ilan Stavans as he dives into the cartoon history of Latino life, exploring the evolution of cultural identity and the significant roles of calaveras. Ian Frazier shares his love letter to the Bronx, highlighting its resilience and unique cultural landscape. Kwame Alexander discusses how poetry can heal and connect communities, while Mo Rocca celebrates those achieving notable comebacks later in life. Together, these guests reflect on identity, creativity, and the powerful stories that shape our lives.

Irene Kearns from the Smithsonian discusses the evolving teaching of Indigenous histories and the misconceptions surrounding Thanksgiving. Weird Al Yankovic shares behind-the-scenes stories of his parodic career, including his new single. Stacey D’Erasmo explores how artists sustain creativity over their careers, while Emily Weinstein celebrates iconic recipes from NYT Cooking. Kenneth C. Davis advocates for short nonfiction reading, and Lynne Peeples highlights the importance of circadian rhythms on health, offering tips for better sleep.

Abigail Hauslohner, a national security reporter for the Washington Post, offers a deep dive into Pete Hegseth's controversial nomination as defense secretary. She discusses Hegseth's military background and the troubling scrutiny surrounding his personal life. The conversation highlights his divisive views on military diversity and past misconduct allegations. Hauslohner also critiques the Republican Party's varied responses and the potential implications for national security and military representation. The dialogue ventures into the political climate and its impact on future military leadership.