The Daily Beast Podcast

Douglas Rushkoff, author of "Survival of the Richest," shares insights into the peculiar realities of tech billionaires like Elon Musk. He discusses their surreal obsessions and the impact on society. Katherine Stewart, author of "The Power Worshippers," dives into the concerning rise of Christian nationalism and its alliance with Trump, highlighting the dangers of anti-democracy sentiments and radical rhetoric. Together, they examine the shifting political landscape and why some supporters are losing interest in the former president.

W. Kamau Bell, a comedian and documentary filmmaker known for his viral video "Who's Gonna Catch Your Kid?", joins the discussion where political tensions run high. He discusses the left's concerns over Laura Loomer's potential appointment in a Trump administration, highlighting fears of rising extremism and political polarization. The conversation also touches on fatherhood and masculinity in politics, revealing contrasting views and the impact of controversial figures on public sentiment and future elections.

Lucy Dean Stockton, a writer and editor at The Lever, dives into the intriguing implications of a Trump presidency appointing Elon Musk, potentially unlocking tax benefits unique to government officials. Gabriel Snyder, editor-in-chief of The Fine Print, shares essential tips on surviving the chaos of election night. They explore the tangled financial interests between Musk and the government, and the ethical dilemmas of tax loopholes that favor the wealthy, providing an insightful look at political and financial power dynamics.

Michael Wolff, a provocative journalist and bestselling author, dives into the chaotic world of Donald Trump's campaign. He discusses the rivalry between Trump and Musk, exploring how it impacts their ambitions. The emotional highs and lows of the Trump rally scene are examined, revealing its tribal nature. Wolff also unpacks loyalty within Trump's camp and how scandals can boost his appeal. Lastly, he reflects on the implications of a potential second Trump term, including challenges of trust and complex power dynamics.

Jay Willis, editor-in-chief of Balls & Strikes, dives into Elon Musk's deepening ties with Trump, exploring how Musk's right-wing media habits shape his political stance. Investigative reporter Phoebe Petrovic sheds light on the dark rise of Christian nationalism and its grip on the 2024 election. They discuss the alarming normalization of hate at political rallies and the serious threats to election integrity in America. The fusion of fringe extremism with traditional Republican values raises troubling questions about the future of U.S. democracy.

Daniel Nichanian, Editor-in-chief of Bolts, offers sharp insights on the upcoming 2024 general elections, focusing on the pivotal role of state and local races. He highlights how these elections will shape critical issues like abortion and voting rights. The discussion also critiques the absurdities in political discourse, especially surrounding figures like Donald Trump, and underscores the urgency for political engagement. Nichanian reveals how trends from the 2022 midterms may signal a shift in the political landscape and the fight for election integrity.

Geoffrey Fowler, a Washington Post tech columnist, discusses Meta's shadowban on political content and its dangers for democracy. Denny Carter, founder of the Bad Faith Times, draws a clever comparison between NFL quarterback dynamics and this year's presidential race. The conversation dives into the rise of authoritarianism in America, the challenges of media influence, and the disconnect between polling data and grassroots sentiment. It's an engaging mix of political insights and cultural commentary!

Political strategist James Carville gives insider insights on the tight presidential race just before Election Day. The conversation dives into Joe Rogan's media influence and discusses the challenges faced by women in media, particularly focusing on unflattering representations. They also explore the portrayal of powerful women, emphasizing the harmful narratives created by imagery. Plus, there's a lively discussion celebrating the unique experiences of menopause, highlighting the importance of open dialogue about this natural phase in life.

Brian Merchant, former tech columnist and author of "Blood in the Machine," joins the discussion to dissect Elon Musk's latest scheme to give away $1 million to voters. He critiques Musk's blend of tech innovation with authoritarian aspirations, exploring how these moves shape current political narratives. The conversation questions the effectiveness of U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland amidst this whirlwind and the broader implications for democracy as wealth and power intertwine in the political arena.

Alice Chen, founder of Doctors for America and a healthcare expert, joins the discussion to unpack how Donald Trump's evasive strategies during interviews can be perilous for public health. The conversation highlights the harmful impact of misinformation, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Chen stresses the importance of truth in healthcare decision-making, urging empathetic leadership to combat the spread of misleading narratives. The dialogue also touches on reproductive rights and the urgent need for responsible political discourse that prioritizes community well-being.