The New Yorker Radio Hour

Emma Green, a Staff writer at The New Yorker, dives into the Trump administration's aggressive approach toward higher education. She highlights the shift from subtle changes to a muscular enforcement strategy targeting elite institutions. The discussion includes insights from Mae Mailman about the conservative stance on academic freedom and federal funding. Green also addresses public dissatisfaction with university value, the push for cultural change, and the ideological imbalances in academia. The podcast sheds light on how federal power is being leveraged to reshape educational policies.

John Carpenter, the acclaimed filmmaker behind cult classics like Halloween and The Thing, dives into his artistic evolution from directing to composing. He discusses his joy in live performances and shares insights into his minimalist synth style. Carpenter highlights the impact of scores like Bernard Herrmann's Vertigo and Bebe and Louis Barron's work on Forbidden Planet. He also reflects on future collaborations, including a potential project with Bong Joon-ho, showcasing his enduring passion for film and music.

Zohran Mamdani, a rising Democratic socialist and former State Assembly member, shares his journey from obscurity to leading the New York City mayoral race. He discusses his views on housing as a human right and the challenge of appealing to diverse voter bases, particularly among immigrants and young people. Mamdani outlines his ambitious agenda for affordability, including a rent freeze and universal childcare, while preparing for potential federal backlash from Trump. His confidence shines as he confronts deep-rooted political interests with a vision for change.

Lionel Richie, award-winning singer-songwriter and former lead of the Commodores, shares insights from his five-decade career and his memoir, Truly. He discusses how daydreaming and listening to his inner voice have influenced his creativity. Songwriting emerges as a way to confront personal insecurities, while lessons from icons like Tina Turner and Marvin Gaye shaped his journey. Richie reveals his unique approach to crafting love songs and reflects on the personal costs of stardom, including the impact of divorce and the importance of daily rituals.

Robert P. George, a Princeton legal scholar and political philosopher, dives into the tumultuous landscape of campus culture. He discusses how academia has shifted left since the 1960s, leading to self-censorship among students and faculty. George advocates for exposing students to diverse ideas rather than imposing punitive measures. He explores the political alienation felt by working-class communities and the rise of the ‘age of feeling,’ arguing for the revival of civil discourse across ideological divides. His insights aim to restore meaningful dialogue in a polarized society.

In this discussion, Hardy Merriman, a civil resistance expert and former president of the International Center on Nonviolent Conflict, delves into the effectiveness of nonviolent movements against governmental overreach. He emphasizes that large-scale non-cooperation—like protests and boycotts—can shift political dynamics. Merriman also highlights the emerging leadership within movements and critiques how ambient public pressure can impact institutional responses. He underscores the importance of unity and strategic action in the fight for democracy.

Ezra Klein, a prominent journalist and co-founder of Vox, dives into the complexities of the Democratic Party's future. He discusses the importance of coalition-building and the challenges of navigating polarization, emphasizing that a big tent should encompass voices from both the left and right. Klein reflects on his controversial comments about Charlie Kirk, defends aspirational politics, and critiques the dangers of mirroring opponents. He also shares insights on political strategy and the significance of respecting voters to rebuild trust in democracy.

In this engaging conversation, Liana Finck, a talented cartoonist and illustrator known for her work in The New Yorker, shares her heartfelt connection to children's literature. She discusses how motherhood rekindled her love for simple storytelling and how her early artistic experiences were rooted in kids' books. Finck highlights three influential titles: William Steig’s 'C D B!', Myra Kalman’s 'What Pete Ate from A to Z', and 'Tell Me a Mitzi' by Lore Segal, celebrating their unique styles and lasting impact on her artistry.

Mark Elias, a prominent election lawyer who led litigation in favor of Democrats during the 2020 elections, delves into serious threats to electoral integrity. He discusses Trump’s attempts to undermine mail-in voting and the Justice Department's requests for sensitive voter data. Elias warns about the risks of 're-gerrymandering' in Texas and advocates for Democratic countermeasures. He raises alarms about potential contested outcomes in 2026 and emphasizes the crucial role of courts and officials in safeguarding democracy.

Kevin Young, Poetry editor for The New Yorker and acclaimed poet, discusses his latest work, “Night Watch,” which delves into themes of death and reflects on Dante's influence. He reveals how Dante provided a framework for addressing dark subjects through a journey rather than despair. Young also touches on the extraordinary story of Millie and Christine McCoy, exploring the intersection of personal grief, identity, and historical narratives. The conversation emphasizes how poetry can respond to contemporary societal issues while providing solace in difficult times.