The Daily Beast Podcast

Steve Bannon, former chief strategist for Donald Trump and currently incarcerated, shares his struggles in prison as Rudy Giuliani claims he's being unfairly treated. Journalist Casey Michel joins the conversation to discuss his book, "Foreign Agents," which reveals how American lobbying undermines democracy worldwide. They explore the implications of foreign influence on U.S. politics, particularly in light of Trump's connections. The discussion also dives into the need for accountability and transparency in leadership as we approach upcoming elections.

Steve Benen, an insightful author known for his sharp analysis of Republican tactics, dives into the fierce political landscape unfolding at the Democratic National Convention. He reveals how the GOP has been rewriting history, influencing narratives around critical events like the Trump-Russia investigation. The conversation also touches on the unexpected presence of moderate Republicans and the evolving dynamics of younger voters, highlighting the importance of combating misinformation in modern politics.

Jonathan Metzl, an author focused on public health and gun policy, discusses Kamala Harris' stance on gun legislation and how Tim Walz might be a crucial ally in advancing reforms. Denny Carter, founder of Bad Faith Times, critiques mainstream media pressures on Harris, arguing for her to remain authentic amid external expectations. The conversation explores the complexities of messaging around gun safety, voter connection, and the stark contrasts between Democratic and Republican conventions.

Danielle Moodie, a co-host who amplifies women's voices on bodily autonomy, and historian Frank Andre Guridy, known for intertwining sports with politics, engage in a lively discussion. They tackle JD Vance's misconceptions about suburban women's views on abortion, emphasizing their prioritization of personal rights. Guridy also shares insights from his book, exploring the evolution of stadiums as social spaces, highlighting their dual role in entertainment and activism, and examining the legacy of the Negro Leagues in baseball.

Joanna Coles, Chief Creative and Content Officer of the Daily Beast, and Anat Shenker-Osorio, host of the political podcast Words to Win By, dive into the 2024 election landscape. They discuss how JD Vance's rise mirrors Sarah Palin's, shedding light on men overshadowing women’s political moments. The conversation shifts to Kamala Harris's evolving role and how Democratic messaging has adapted in her company. They also critique political maneuvering in immigration policies, exposing deeper biases in traditional electoral politics.

Josh Ettinger, publisher of Ettingermentum, discusses Trump's shifting economic narrative and the effectiveness of branding Republicans as 'weird.' Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action, reveals the backstory behind the 'White Women for Kamala Harris' Zoom initiative, showcasing grassroots activism's influence on electoral dynamics. The conversation dives into the evolving strategies in political messaging, especially regarding abortion and immigration, highlighting the crucial role of women's voting trends in shaping future elections.

Former President Donald Trump candidly admits he supports electric vehicles due to Elon Musk's backing, stirring laughter and disbelief among co-hosts. Musk's influence on political endorsements sparks a deeper conversation about the intertwining of money and politics. Erin Matson, co-founder of Reproaction, sheds light on the current state of reproductive healthcare in the U.S., discussing challenges post-Dobbs decision and the misleading tactics of crisis pregnancy centers, all while emphasizing the urgent need for informed voter engagement.

Madeline Peltz, deputy director at Media Matters, and Meredith McGraw, national correspondent at Politico, discuss the alarming themes in Kevin Roberts' new book. They highlight its potential political ramifications and the rise of toxic narratives in politics. McGraw also shares insights from her work on Trump's post-presidency maneuvers from Mar-a-Lago, revealing the dynamics of his influence within the Republican Party. Together, they examine how conservative ideologies impact modern family values and the political landscape.

Andrew Lawrence, deputy director of rapid response at Media Matters for America, and Asawin Suebsaeng, senior politics reporter at Rolling Stone, dive into the fascinating world of political strategy. They discuss how the word "weird" is gaining traction for Democrats and its implications for Trump's narrative. Suebsaeng provides insight into Trump's ties to Project 2025, revealing how key figures from his administration continue to influence his political maneuvers. The conversation highlights the evolving tactics in American politics.

A legal expert sheds light on the chilling implications of Project 2025’s plans for the DOJ. They discuss how these proposed changes could lead to a crackdown on illegal immigration and reshape justice into a tool for political enforcement. The conversation dives into the risks of undermining impartiality and civil liberties within law enforcement. Current political dynamics and the future of rights amidst these shifts are also examined, proving to be both alarming and thought-provoking.