The New Yorker Radio Hour

Claire Malone, New Yorker staff writer who covers media and politics, explains Bari Weiss's meteoric rise from Times resignation to leading CBS News. Short scenes cover Weiss’s Free Press venture, Silicon Valley backers, early stumbles at CBS, internal newsroom reactions, and plans to modernize and recruit new talent. The conversation focuses on culture wars, editorial choices, and the risks of courting Trump-friendly coverage.

Jason Zengerle, political journalist and author of Hated by All the Right People, outlines Tucker Carlson’s transformation from respected reporter to influential far‑right media figure. He traces Carlson’s resentment of legacy media, the radicalizing effects of starting his own outlets, and his post‑Fox tactics of courting extreme audiences and seeking political power.

Danny Funt, a journalist and author of "Everybody Loses," dives into the explosive growth of sports gambling in America. He reveals how betting has moved from the fringes to a $150 billion market, impacting even young children. Funt discusses the predatory nature of the industry, the integrity risks from recent scandals, and how sportsbooks exploit consumer habits. He also highlights troubling trends in youth gambling and calls for renewed regulation to protect vulnerable players in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Jennifer Welch, co-host of the podcast I've Had It, shares her journey from interior designer to a powerful voice in progressive politics. She discusses her concept of 'dark woke' politics and critiques establishment Democrats for their corporate ties. Welch reflects on her heated interviews, particularly with Cory Booker and Rahm Emanuel, emphasizing the need for accountability. She believes informal podcasting fosters real connection, and advocates for economic populism to resonate with disenchanted Trump voters. Her insights explore the intersection of media, politics, and grassroots activism.

Jennifer Wilson, a staff writer for The New Yorker, explores the evolving landscape of prenuptial agreements, once seen as exclusive to the wealthy. She reveals how millennials, influenced by no-fault divorce and a distrust of traditional marriage, now view prenups as essential. Wilson shares insights from celebrity divorce attorney Laura Wasser, discussing the rise of prenup apps and clauses like social media nondisparagement. They even touch on unusual stipulations, such as sex frequency and body-mass index, reflecting deeper societal anxieties.

Historian Daniel Immerwahr, a professor at Northwestern University and author of "How to Hide an Empire," delves into Trump's embrace of imperialism and the historical roots of U.S. interventionism. He discusses the surprising global reach of U.S. military bases, often kept hidden, and contrasts Trump's rhetoric with traditional presidential norms. The conversation touches on the strategic implications of U.S. aggression, particularly regarding China and Russia, and the long-term instability that results from interventions, urging a critical reevaluation of America's foreign policies.

Demi Moore opens up about her dynamic career and personal growth since her comeback. She shares insights from her early life, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and self-discovery. Balancing motherhood and acting, she recalls rehearsing just weeks after childbirth. Moore reflects on iconic roles like G.I. Jane, discussing the transformation of gender roles in Hollywood. She also addresses the challenges of body image and resisting sexualization, ultimately revealing how her latest film showcases newfound vulnerability and artistry.

Rubén Blades, the legendary Panamanian musician and former politician, joins journalist Graciela Mochkovsky for an engaging conversation. They discuss Blades’ ability to blend social commentary with salsa music, his journey from law school to global fame, and the political implications of songwriting, stressing the difference between art and propaganda. He shares insights on the importance of representation for Latinos in media and his collaborations with younger artists, all while emphasizing salsa's unique power to unite people on the dance floor.

Elaine Pagels, a renowned religion scholar and professor at Princeton, dives into the complexities of early Christianity and her personal faith journey. She discusses her new book, addressing controversies like the virgin birth and resurrection. Pagels contrasts canonical Gospels with Gnostic texts, revealing why the former gained dominance. Through her reflections on loss and spirituality, she argues that belief often overshadows the deeper realities of ritual and community. Her unique perspectives offer a fascinating look at the intersection of history and faith.

Stephen Witt, a technology journalist and author of "The Thinking Machine," shares insights on NVIDIA's rise as a giant in the AI chip industry. He discusses how their innovative parallel computing chips synchronizing with neural-net software changed the game. Witt delves into Jensen Huang's vision and leadership, which prioritize engineering excellence. The conversation touches on the geopolitical implications of Taiwan's manufacturing strength and China's ambitions to replicate NVIDIA's success. Witt also speculates on the future of AI in everyday life, including personalized nonfiction books.