The New Yorker Radio Hour

Louisa Thomas, a sports correspondent for The New Yorker, reflects on John Updike's classic essay about Ted Williams' poignant final game. She delves into the meticulous craft of sports writing, emphasizing how small choices can shape narratives. Charles Strouse, the legendary composer behind 'Annie,' shares his rivalry with Stephen Sondheim and the secrets behind crafting unforgettable tunes. Their insights celebrate the emotional power of storytelling in both sports and music.

Cécile McLorin Salvant, a three-time Grammy-winning jazz vocalist, captivates with her genre-blending artistry, drawing on influences from legends like Ella Fitzgerald. In the conversation, she reveals her unique approach to musical curation, likening it to creating mixtapes filled with rare gems. Salvant performs a mix of standards and lesser-known pieces, including her original, 'Moon Song.' She also discusses the thrill of live performance and the cultural significance of music, showcasing her passion for storytelling through song.

Katie Thornton, reporter and host of On The Media's Peabody-winning series “The Divided Dial,” explores the captivating world of shortwave radio. She dives into its evolution from a utopian communication tool to a weapon of propaganda during the Cold War. Listeners learn about the covert origins of Radio Free Europe and its role in broadcasting truth amidst repression. Thornton reminisces about the magical allure of late-night shortwave listening and highlights how these waves shaped public perception, morale, and even American politics.

Jake Tapper, CNN's lead Washington anchor, and Alex Thompson, National political correspondent for Axios, dive deep into President Biden's cognitive challenges and their implications for his presidency. They reveal how Biden’s decline was managed behind the scenes and discuss the scripted nature of his public engagements. The pair also contrasts Biden's debate performances with Trump’s strategies, raising concerns about age and communication's role in leadership. Their insights illuminate the broader political dynamics as Biden faces the prospect of a second term.

Julian Lucas, a Staff writer at The New Yorker and longtime fan of Percival Everett, dives into the literary brilliance of Everett's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, 'James.' They discuss how Everett reframes Jim's character from Twain's work, highlighting themes of complexity and voice. The conversation also touches on the use of humor in exploring human experiences and the rising ADHD diagnoses in women. Finally, they address the backlash against 'James,' emphasizing the importance of engaging with literature instead of fearing challenging discussions on race.

Alyssa Slotkin, the newly elected Senator from Michigan, has emerged as a key figure in bridging the divide between red and blue states. She champions the idea that Democrats should embrace 'alpha energy' and shift away from identity politics, focusing on economic issues instead. Slotkin discusses the importance of clear political communication and advocates for bipartisan cooperation. She addresses the complexities of Trump's influence on national security and voter loyalty, emphasizing the need for transparency in addressing power dynamics.

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.