The New Yorker Radio Hour

Kevin Young, the poetry editor at The New Yorker and director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture, shares his insights on the magazine’s evolution as a literary beacon. He reflects on the thrill of curating a century of poetry and fiction, emphasizing the transformative power of rejection in a writer's journey. Young also discusses the crucial role of poetry during crises, highlighting poignant works like Adam Zagievsky's in the wake of 9/11, and celebrates the fresh voices that continue to shape The New Yorker's narrative landscape.

In this engaging discussion, Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and renowned philanthropist, shares insights from his memoir, "Source Code." He reflects on his childhood rebellion and the foundations of Microsoft, revealing how therapy influenced his independence. Gates tackles the detrimental impact of conspiracy theories on public trust in vaccines and criticizes the current socio-political landscape. He also discusses the complexities of integrating philanthropy with political ties after his significant dinner with Donald Trump, while emphasizing the importance of addressing economic inequality.

Dana Goodyear, a staff writer for The New Yorker known for her in-depth reporting on California's landscape and politics, shares her harrowing experience with the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. She recounts the emotional struggle of returning to her home in Pacific Palisades, now reduced to charred remnants. Goodyear reflects on the haunting loss, the resilience of communities in the face of disaster, and the profound impact of personal memories that survive amidst the ashes. Her insights highlight the intersection of personal grief and investigative storytelling.

Susan Morrison, editor at New Yorker and author of "Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live," dives into the legacy of Lorne Michaels and the revolutionary impact of SNL on television comedy. She discusses how Michaels innovatively refreshed the cast to resonate with younger audiences. Tina Fey, a notable SNL alumna, shares a reading from a 1975 review, capturing the show's initial audacity. Together, they explore SNL's blend of spontaneity, satire, and the cultural significance that has defined its fifty-year journey.

This discussion opens with a dive into confirmation hearings for Trump's new cabinet members, highlighting the opulence of inaugurations past. The evolving political landscape is examined as public sentiment shifts with Biden's departure and Trump's return. Concerns arise over the concentration of power and the prioritization of loyalty over competence. The financial backing from billionaires, such as Elon Musk, raises questions about democracy's future. It's a thought-provoking exploration of how wealth influences politics in today's world.

Antony Blinken, former Secretary of State under President Biden, reflects on his turbulent tenure navigating global crises like Ukraine and Gaza. He discusses the urgency of achieving a ceasefire and the complexities of U.S. influence in Israeli-Palestinian relations, especially regarding normalization with Saudi Arabia. Blinken highlights the need for Israeli society to choose a path towards peace, emphasizing the delicate balance of international alliances and the challenges of American foreign policy in an evolving geopolitical landscape.

The conversation takes a deep dive into the crucial role of rare earth metals in powering our gadgets and green technologies. Environmental journalist Vince Beiser argues for increased mining in the U.S., recognizing its environmental toll while stressing the need for these resources. The discussion highlights innovative methods like phytomining, which uses plants to recover metals sustainably. It also sheds light on the tension between mining policies and renewable energy goals, especially during the Trump administration's regulatory shifts.

Ro Khanna, a progressive US Representative from California's Silicon Valley, shares his insights on the growing influence of tech moguls like Elon Musk. He warns that this tech oligarchy threatens democracy and public interests. Khanna advocates for a return to trust among working-class voters, emphasizing the need for reform to curb money's sway in elections. He defines himself as a progressive capitalist, believing that real economic growth should involve entrepreneurship and tech leaders working as part of the solution, not against the state.

Pop music star and Broadway composer Sara Bareilles shares her journey from chart-topping hits to the theater stage. She opens up about the pressures of fame and aging, noting how the competitive nature of the music industry doesn’t resonate with her. In contrast, she finds joy in theater, where everyone celebrates shared experiences. Bareilles reflects on the emotional depth of her songwriting, the importance of authenticity amidst commercial pressures, and the collaborative spirit that theater fosters.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Rachel Aviv, a staff writer for The New Yorker, delves into the life and legacy of Nobel Prize-winning author Alice Munro. Aviv reveals the hidden trauma within Munro's family, particularly the emotional fallout from her partner's abuse of their daughter, Andrea Skinner. The conversation explores the paradox of Munro's empathy as an artist juxtaposed with her personal betrayals, raising crucial questions about the cost of creativity and the complexities of familial relationships.