The New Yorker Radio Hour

John Seabrook, a staff writer for The New Yorker and author of 'The Spinach King', delves into his family's turbulent history with the Seabrook Farms empire. He shares the gripping tale of a ruthless patriarch fighting to retain control, echoing themes similar to modern dramas. The conversation reveals the darker side of his family's legacy—political corruption and labor violence—while reflecting on the emotional toll of inherited wealth. Seabrook also discusses the struggles of immigrant workers, highlighting their resilience amid conflict.

Alycia Halladay, Chief Science Officer of the Autism Science Foundation, shares her insights from over 20 years of research on autism. She critically examines Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.'s controversial claims linking vaccines to autism and the harmful effects of misinformation. The discussion sheds light on desperate measures parents take to support their autistic children, emphasizing the emotional toll and manipulation they face. Halladay highlights the importance of debunking myths while exploring credible factors influencing autism, all amidst ongoing challenges in scientific funding and public perception.

Brian Eno, the English musician and producer renowned for his ambient music and work with icons like U2 and David Bowie, shares profound insights. He discusses his new albums, ‘Luminal’ and ‘Lateral,’ and his book, ‘What Art Does.’ Eno argues that the essence of art lies in evoking emotions, emphasizing that its true goal is to transform feelings. He explores the collaborative nature of music production and the role of art in fostering collective awareness during crises, asserting that art is a vital tool for navigating emotional experiences.

Lesley Stahl, a legendary CBS News journalist and correspondent on 60 Minutes, delves into the tumultuous lawsuit filed by Donald Trump against CBS over a controversial interview. She reflects on the potential fallout of a settlement, expressing deep concern for journalistic integrity amid corporate pressures. Stahl recalls the historical challenges faced during Watergate and shares her experiences interviewing Trump, highlighting his media manipulation tactics. With a melancholic tone, she addresses the growing public mistrust in the press and the dark times ahead for journalism.

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.