The New Yorker Radio Hour

John Cassidy, a seasoned staff writer at The New Yorker and author of "Capitalism and Its Critics: A History," discusses the seismic shift in economic policy under Donald Trump. He analyzes Trump’s chaotic tariff strategies and their impact on markets. Cassidy explains how capitalism has evolved, noting the rise of monopolies and young people's view of capitalism through an environmental lens. He also revisits Marx's critiques, highlighting ongoing class struggles and the complexities of economic philosophies in America compared to Europe.

Marion Nestle, a leading nutrition researcher, and Dhruv Khullar, a physician and contributor, unravel the complexities of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s health agenda amid his controversial stances on vaccines and junk food. They emphasize the urgent need for reform in food politics, focusing on the impacts of ultra-processed foods on public health. Meanwhile, Kelefa Sanneh reflects on the revolutionary influence of Kraftwerk, the pioneers of electronic music, discussing their profound legacy across various music genres and their cultural relevance today.

Michael Luo, Executive Editor at The New Yorker and author of "Strangers in the Land," delves into the historical narrative of Chinese Americans. He discusses the rise in violence against Asian Americans and how these struggles echo past injustices faced by earlier immigrants. Luo highlights the crucial role of figures like Frederick Douglass in advocating for Chinese immigrants’ rights. With a powerful message that "Asian American history is American history," he invites listeners to re-examine the broader implications of immigration and identity in America.

Cory Booker, the passionate Senator from New Jersey and social justice advocate, discusses his record-breaking Senate speech against authoritarianism. He emphasizes the need for moral over political leadership in America, urging citizens—and even Republicans—to unite for empathy and accountability. The conversation dives into the impact of Trump’s policies on democracy and the urgent call for compassionate governance. Booker stresses the responsibility of leaders to navigate today's turbulent political landscape while fostering hope and addressing pressing social issues.

In this engaging conversation, comedian Nikki Glaser shares her journey of revitalizing the roast comedy genre, including her celebrated performance roasting Tom Brady. Despite her success, she opens up about battling imposter syndrome and the pressure women face in comedy. Glaser discusses the importance of audience trust and her personal experiences with self-worth while navigating the complexities of her public persona. She also touches on the challenges of family dynamics during the pandemic and how they intertwine with personal growth.

Jill Lepore, a Harvard historian and author, dives into the mind of Elon Musk, revealing how his obsession with science fiction fuels his ambitions, including the controversial rise of Dogecoin. She explains Musk's vision for Mars colonization and how it shapes his political stances, likening his grand designs to a cosmic messiah narrative. Additionally, activist Patty Hoyt shares her experiences in opposing Musk's influence, highlighting the risks of taking a stand against such a powerful figure in today's society.

Ryan Coogler, acclaimed director of "Fruitvale Station" and "Black Panther," discusses his latest film, "Sinners," blending horror with themes of history, faith, and race. He explores how his Southern roots influence the narrative and the mythology of the blues. Coogler reflects on the complexities of identity and spirituality in storytelling, drawing connections to African heritage through figures like Papa Legba. He also highlights the transformative power of cinema in connecting marginalized voices to their legacy.

Ruth Marcus, a columnist for The New Yorker and author of "Supreme Ambition," discusses her critical experience at the Washington Post and her insights on Trump’s legal strategies. She analyzes how Trump's expansive view of presidential power faces rebukes in lower courts but gains unexpected support from the Supreme Court. Marcus questions whether the conservative majority will ultimately check Trump's authority or yield to it, highlighting the implications for constitutional rights and judicial integrity.

Katie Kitamura, an acclaimed author and NYU creative writing instructor, dives deep into the themes of her latest novel, 'Audition.' She discusses the complex identity of a middle-aged actress and her dynamic with a younger man, challenging traditional ideas about female agency. Kitamura reflects on societal perceptions of characters lacking agency and the realities of personal constraints. The conversation also touches on contemporary age-gap relationships and the intricate interplay between horror and identity, casting light on the nuances of desire and dislocation.

Stephen Witt, a tech journalist and author of "The Thinking Machine," discusses Nvidia’s rise as a leader in AI technology and its co-founder, Jensen Huang. He highlights the company’s crucial role in the hardware revolution that powers AI applications like ChatGPT. Witt addresses potential geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding Taiwan, and speculates on the changing landscape of global manufacturing. Meanwhile, Joshua Rothman, a staff writer for The New Yorker, shares insights on the ethical implications of AI integration in society.