The Daily Beast Podcast

Jamel Hill, a keen commentator on sports and politics, shares insights on how athletes are becoming powerful advocates for social justice, particularly in women's sports. Matt Gertz illuminates the concerning connections between Fox News and Donald Trump’s administration, revealing how network personalities have shaped policy decisions. The conversation also examines systemic discrimination and recent political controversies, highlighting the need for stronger advocacy for marginalized communities and the role of sports in promoting societal change.

Mika Brzezinski, bestselling author and anchor of "Morning Joe," shares her insights on her recent dinner date with president-elect Donald Trump, defending their choice amid backlash. Joining her is Hugh Dougherty, executive editor at The Daily Beast, who paints a vivid picture of scheming at Mar-a-Lago and the bizarre personalities vying for Trump’s attention. They also discuss Elon Musk's involvement in Trump’s inner circle and gossip about RFK Jr.'s food choices. The conversation balances serious political intrigue with entertaining anecdotes.

Jared Holt, a senior research analyst focusing on hate and extremism, joins Lucy Dean Stockton, an editor at The Lever known for her regulatory reporting. They dive into Brendan Carr, Trump's controversial nominee for FCC chair, challenging his facade as a 'free speech advocate.' The conversation also highlights Trump's potential to undermine Biden's regulatory accomplishments. Holt discusses the alarming rise of hate and misinformation online, urging proactive measures to confront these critical threats to democracy.

Stephanie Mencimer, a senior reporter at Mother Jones known for her investigative work on political figures, joins to discuss the potential fallout of Pete Hegseth's military policies. She highlights fears of a mass exodus of experienced personnel from the Pentagon and the risks it poses to national security. They also delve into the controversies surrounding Matt Gaetz and his selection as attorney general, exploring the ethical dilemmas and implications for Congress. The discussion is a blend of serious insights and sharp commentary.

Melissa del Bosque, an expert on the U.S.-Mexico border and misinformation, reveals the alarming implications of Tom Homan's role as 'border czar.' Noah Hurowitz discusses controversial legislation that could designate nonprofits as terrorist organizations, highlighting the dangers of misusing power. They also explore the shared traits of Trump's Cabinet picks, where loyalty seems to overshadow competence, posing potential threats to marginalized communities. The conversation unfolds around political dynamics and societal narratives affecting immigration and legislative processes.

Organizational psychologist Adam Grant shares insightful coping strategies for navigating political turmoil. The dynamics at Mar-a-Lago are humorously explored, revealing a mock 'situation room' where loyalty is key for cabinet evaluations. Discussions on political appointments highlight controversial figures within the Trump administration. Furthermore, the shifting boundaries of political discourse reveal how extreme language has become more acceptable. The blending of humor and critique makes for a captivating examination of contemporary politics.

Dean Obeidallah, a trial lawyer and host of The Dean Obeidallah Show on Sirius XM Radio, joins the conversation to delve into the political landscape post-election. He shares insights on the disconnect between populist messaging and the real issues facing the working class. The discussion critiques the influence of the billionaire class and their ties to politicians like Trump, spotlighting how greed and misinformation shape election integrity. Obeidallah emphasizes the urgent need for new leadership that truly represents everyday Americans.

Joining the conversation is Matt Pearce, a seasoned journalist and former president of Media Guild of the West, known for his insights on media policy. He explores the controversial immigration plans of potential AG Mike Davis and the broader implications for society. The discussion pivots to the evolving media landscape in the Trump era, highlighting its critical role in democracy. They also tackle the urgent need to protect press freedoms amidst rising threats, emphasizing the crucial balance between accountability and journalistic integrity.

Michael Ian Black, a comedian and writer known for his sharp wit and contributions to The Daily Beast, joins a lively discussion with co-host Samantha Bee and former Daily Beast editor John Avlon. They tackle the fallout from the 2024 election, with Bee delivering candid critiques of Biden's administration. Avlon shares lessons from his own congressional run, while Black humorously navigates the political landscape, often using personal anecdotes to bring levity to serious issues. Together, they reflect on the challenges and resilience required in today's divided political environment.

In this discussion, Jared Yates Sexton, an author and political analyst, and Nicholas Grossman, an international relations expert, dissect Kamala Harris's election loss, arguing it reflects deeper societal frustrations. They explore how Trump's influence may linger beyond his presidency, especially in shaping public perception and voter sentiment. The duo also critiques the disinformation affecting political debates and sheds light on the urgent need for marginalized communities to mobilize against systemic challenges, highlighting the emotional exhaustion felt within social justice spaces.