The New Yorker Radio Hour

Elaine Pagels, a renowned religion professor at Princeton and author of "Miracles and Wonder: The Historical Mystery of Jesus," dives into the intricate tapestry of early Christianity. She shares her transformation from a scientifically-minded teen to a passionate seeker of faith through a profound encounter with evangelism. Pagels discusses the controversies surrounding biblical texts, the exclusion of Gnostic writings, and the enduring questions about Jesus’s birth and resurrection. She emphasizes the deep connections forged through spirituality and the invisible realms of belief.

Chris Murphy, Junior Senator from Connecticut, is a vocal critic of the Democratic Party's response to the Trump administration. He emphasizes that Democrats must adopt a bold, populist approach to combat ongoing threats to democracy. Murphy argues that political risks are essential to protect democratic norms and that mere popularity will not ensure fair elections. He warns against complacency, highlighting how the erosion of accountability can mirror failed democracies. His urgent call to action resonates deeply in today's political climate.

Suzanne Gaber, a reporter known for her coverage of the Awartani family in the West Bank, shares compelling insights from her recent visit to Ramallah. Hisham Awartani, who faced life-altering challenges after a violent incident in the U.S., discusses how annexation isn't a distant threat but a gradual reality. The Awartanis reflect on their daily lives under the looming shadow of political changes, blending humor and resilience. Their stories highlight the emotional impact of living in a conflict zone, showcasing both personal struggles and the broader geopolitical landscape.

Kaitlan Collins, Chief White House correspondent for CNN, shares her journey from college grad to covering the White House. She recounts the challenges of reporting in a hostile environment during Trump's presidency and how that shaped her approach. Collins discusses Trump's complex relationship with the press, revealing how he seeks validation despite his criticism. She reflects on the evolving dynamics of journalism, the pressures of live interviews, and the need for objectivity in a polarized media landscape.

Explore the creation of We the Builders, a platform supporting federal employees facing job insecurity during political transitions. Listen as creators highlight the hidden yet crucial roles of these workers in keeping public services safe. Delve into the innovative use of DOGE to promote accountability in government. Celebrate 20 years of 'Brokeback Mountain' and discuss its impactful portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships and cultural significance. Reflect on the complexities of love and loneliness that resonate throughout the poignant narrative.

Atul Gawande, a prominent surgeon and public health expert, dives deep into the repercussions of Elon Musk's controversial remarks about U.S.A.I.D. The conversation highlights the vital role of soft power in global health initiatives, particularly how funding cuts can jeopardize lives in conflict zones. Gawande reflects on the efficiency and impact of American foreign aid, admonishing the shift towards a more power-centric worldview. He also touches on vaccine confidence, linking it to historical hesitancy, and discusses ethical considerations in surgical practices.

Nancy Solomon, WNYC’s New Jersey reporter with deep insights into local politics, dives into the dramatic fall of Bob Menendez. She unravels his journey from the son of Cuban immigrants to a powerful Senator, now facing eleven years in prison for corruption. Solomon discusses Menendez's ties to bribes and the murky waters of political integrity. The conversation also touches on the implications of presidential pardons in corruption cases, casting a shadow on the future of anti-corruption efforts.

Stephen Kotkin, a historian specializing in Russia and a fellow at Stanford's Hoover Institution, discusses Donald Trump's controversial stance on the Ukraine conflict. He highlights Trump’s admiration for Putin and critiques of Zelensky, raising concerns about U.S. foreign policy implications. Kotkin examines the changing landscape of American power and the limitations it faces, stressing that while Trump's views may be flawed, they reflect underlying realities in global politics. The conversation navigates the shifting geopolitical dynamics and the impact on U.S. commitments.

When Emily Nussbaum introduced Alan Cumming at the New Yorker Festival, she said, “Plenty of actors light up a room, but Alan Cumming is more of a disco ball—reflecting every possible angle of show business.” Cumming appears in mainstream dramas such as “The Good Wife,” and also more indie projects like his one-man version of “Macbeth”; his performances in musicals such as “Cabaret” are legendary. He also owns a nightclub; his memoir “Not My Father’s Son” was a bestseller, and so on. And Cumming plays the host on the Emmy-winning reality show “The Traitors.” He combines “a dandy Scottish laird—sort of James Bond villain, sort of eccentric, old-fashioned nut who has this big castle.” Spoiler alert: “It’s supposed to be my castle. It’s not.” Nussbaum asks about his perspective on reality TV before he started on “Traitors.” “Zero, really,” Cumming confesses. “I was a bit judgy. … The thing I don't like about a lot of those shows is that they laud and therefore encourage bad behavior and lack of kindness.” Before “The Traitors,” Cumming’s first brush with reality television was on “Who Do You Think You Are?,” a BBC genealogy program that confronted him with shocking secrets about his own family. “It made a good memoir, I suppose,” he jokes. “Just how awful that was. It was awful. But no, I don't regret it.”

Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota and former congressman, shares his insights on the Democratic Party's struggles in recent elections. He discusses the reasons behind the party's loss of support, especially among men, and the importance of effective communication to rebuild trust. Walz reflects on his proactive stance against the Trump administration and the challenges of addressing misinformation in political debates. He also emphasizes the need for unity among women in politics and the value of genuine public service over mere ambition.