The Daily Beast Podcast
The Daily Beast
The Daily Beast Podcast is as wildly exciting, energizing, and entertaining as the topics it covers. Hosted by Joanna Coles, Chief Content Officer of the Daily Beast, every episode brings you more of the people, politics, and pop culture coverage you need straight from the Daily Beast newsroom. Amazing conversations have included Amber Ruffin, Tiffany Haddish, Mika Brzezinski, Don Lemon, John Oliver and more!New episodes every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.If you’re not already a subscriber to The Daily Beast, it’s easy! Just go to thedailybeast.com to sign up. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
8 snips
Oct 5, 2025 • 34min
Trump's Witchhunt is About to Meet This Reckoning
Shan Wu, a former federal prosecutor and legal columnist, joins the discussion to dissect the indictment of James Comey, revealing its politically charged nature. He explains the implications of a weak grand jury vote and the role of inexperienced prosecutors. Wu discusses the heavy emotional and financial burden on Comey, the potential for selective prosecution claims, and how this trial could undermine the integrity of the justice system. He warns that politicized legal actions threaten fairness, urging a deeper look into our judicial protections.
Oct 3, 2025 • 37min
Why Everyone Around Trump is Paranoid Now: Wolff
Michael Wolff, an insightful author and journalist known for his in-depth exploration of Trump’s presidency, joins Joanna Coles to dissect the pervasive paranoia within Trump’s circle. They discuss how Trump manipulates government shutdowns into battles of dominance, illustrating his chaotic approach. Wolff critiques the Democrats' lack of emotional messaging and examines the absurdity within Trump’s appointees. They also explore the implications of social media on political theatrics and the military's apprehensive response to Trump's erratic leadership.
Oct 2, 2025 • 33min
Trump Hid Sinister Message in Speech to Generals
Lieutenant General Mark Hertling (Ret.) brings a wealth of military experience to the discussion, analyzing Donald Trump's unusual speech at Quantico before senior military leaders. Hertling criticizes the tone of the addresses, describing them as 'berating' and 'embarrassing.' He explores the potential dangers of using the military for domestic policing and discusses the implications of Trump's disregard for military norms. The conversation also covers how allies and adversaries perceive this shift, alongside the broader impact on troop morale and national security.
Oct 1, 2025 • 48min
Paranoid Trump Haunted by Epstein's Ghost: Wolff
Michael Wolff, a seasoned author and journalist renowned for his insights into the Trump White House, shares a fascinating look at how Jeffrey Epstein's legacy haunts Donald Trump. He discusses Trump's erratic behavior, linking it to a fear of loyalty challenges after a meeting with military leaders. Wolff also examines Trump’s obsession with image, including quirky dress codes for the military. The conversation dives into the intriguing dynamics of civilian control over the military and Trump's long-standing grievances against James Comey.
8 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 44min
What Generals Really Say About Trump and Hegseth
Join David Rothkopf, a seasoned columnist and former Clinton administration official, as he unveils the troubling implications of Trump's recent military event with generals. Rothkopf reveals how a militarized response to exaggerated threats undermines real military readiness. He argues the weaponization of the DOJ signifies a dangerous authoritarian shift. Moreover, he explores the evolution of MAGA into a white Christian nationalist movement, while also offering hope through demographic change and the rise of independent media.
15 snips
Sep 28, 2025 • 40min
I Saw Trump's Brazen Cash for Pardons Scam: Lawyer
Liz Oyer, a former U.S. Pardon Attorney, exposes the transformation of the Justice Department's pardon process under Donald Trump into a pay-for-play scheme. She reveals shocking details about million-dollar price tags for pardons, including ones for January 6 rioters. Oyer contrasts Trump's blanket pardons with Biden’s more selective approach and discusses the harm to victims left behind. Additionally, she highlights the erosion of ethics within the DOJ and the dangerous implications for national security.
Sep 26, 2025 • 37min
Why Dems Finally Have Leverage Over Trump: Wolff
Michael Wolff, an insightful author known for his sharp commentary on the Trump era, joins the discussion with Joanna Coles. They delve into the imminent threat of a government shutdown and dissect how Democrats now hold the leverage against Trump's disruptive strategies. Wolff reflects on past government shutdowns, analyzes Chuck Schumer's leadership, and questions whether public anger can mobilize effective resistance. He also explores the surprising effectiveness of Trump in dismantling norms and urges Democrats to seize this moment for opposition.
Sep 25, 2025 • 45min
Why Trump's Blatant Corruption Hurts Us All: Reich
Robert Reich, former U.S. Secretary of Labor and co-founder of Inequality Media, joins to discuss the alarming slide towards authoritarianism in the U.S. He reveals how Trump distorts economic data and corrupts markets, emphasizing the role of billionaire enablers. Reich criticizes the cowardice of corporate leaders and urges citizens to step up where elites fail. He also highlights the vital role of Gen Z activism and calls for coordinated action to combat tyranny, all while reflecting on the erosion of constitutional freedoms and the need for collective mobilization.
9 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 35min
How Trump Just Proved He's an Idiot: Wolff
Michael Wolff, notable author and journalist famous for his insights on Donald Trump, joins Joanna Coles to dissect a tumultuous week in Trump's orbit. They explore Sam Nunberg's stark assessment of Trump as 'an idiot' and dive into scandals involving Epstein's network. The conversation touches on the troubling effects of Trump's anti-vaccine rhetoric within MAGA, the implications of Charlie Kirk's evangelical revivalism, and Erika Kirk's emotional forgiveness message. Wolff probes the future of Trump's movement amid a sea of discontent and controversies.
Sep 23, 2025 • 48min
What Trump's Rant About 'Hate' Tells Us: Swisher
Kara Swisher, a veteran tech journalist and co-host of the 'Pivot' podcast, dives into Trump’s controversial appearance at Charlie Kirk’s memorial. She analyzes Trump’s brand of hate and its political ramifications, along with the rising influence of Erica Kirk as a possible running mate. The discussion also touches on Larry Ellison's TikTok deal and Disney’s shake-up with Jimmy Kimmel. Moreover, Kara shares insights on longevity, covering diet, exercise, and the importance of social connections. It's a fascinating mix of politics, tech, and health.
