The Wright Show

Milton Lawson, author of the graphic novel "Orson Welles: Warrior of the Worlds" and former Blogging Heads TV employee, dives deep into the legacy of Orson Welles. He discusses the real story behind Welles' notorious 'War of the Worlds' broadcast and the panic it stirred. Lawson reveals how Welles' career was derailed and shares his passion for blending history and fiction in comics. The conversation also hints at a multimedia adaptation of his work and reflects on the evolution of comics and their cultural significance.

Nikita Petrov, a writer and researcher at Psychopolitica, and Boris Shoshitaishvili, an academic specializing in classical studies and planetary thought, dive into the complexities of identity in the digital age. They discuss the philosophical implications of the noosphere and how technology shapes modern consciousness. The conversation also explores the unique idea of humans acting as therapists for chatbots and delves into DMT experiences, examining how they influence our understanding of reality. Their rich dialogue connects ancient wisdom with contemporary challenges.

Karthik Sankaran, a Senior Fellow at the Quincy Institute focusing on geoeconomics, shares insightful critiques of Trump's tariff policies. He discusses how tariffs are justified under the guise of national security but might hinder development in poorer nations. The conversation highlights the factions influencing U.S. trade policy and questions if Trump's approach deflects blame for America’s issues onto foreign countries. The implications for manufacturing hubs like Vietnam and the shift in China’s economy are also pivotal topics.

Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn and renowned Silicon Valley investor, dives into the future of AI and its societal implications. He discusses the concepts from his book, exploring how AI can be harnessed for cognitive empathy and conflict resolution. The conversation also touches on the geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China, especially in the context of the chip war and tech rivalry. Hoffman underscores the necessity for international cooperation and the careful navigation of technological transitions in a rapidly changing world.

Almut Rochowanski, a non-resident fellow at the Quincy Institute, shares her insights on the rise of authoritarianism in the U.S. and abroad. She discusses the unsettling parallels between Trump's political maneuvers and oligarchic regimes in post-Soviet nations. The conversation dives into the implications of nationalism and racial identity on political landscapes, while also critiquing the cancellation of dissenting voices in academia. With a focus on advocacy for marginalized communities, the discussion highlights urgent issues surrounding democracy and human rights.

Kelley Vlahos, editorial director of Responsible Statecraft and a prominent voice in conservative media, dives into the intricate battles shaping right-wing foreign policy. She discusses the ideological clash between hawks and doves within the Republican Party, revealing a shift towards an 'America First' mindset. The conversation touches on Trump's foreign policy team, the implications of a potential war with Iran, and the impact of media narratives on political figures' military stances. Vlahos highlights the ongoing struggle to balance traditional beliefs with evolving party dynamics.

The hosts hilariously debate their struggles with insomnia, adding humor to serious reflections. They dissect Trump's tariffs and their impact on Tesla and American car prices. Political dynamics in the upcoming Canadian elections are analyzed, revealing complex connections to U.S. sentiments. The discussion touches on the Gaza conflict, free speech challenges, and the intertwining of personal faith with societal issues. They explore the moral nuances of military decisions, blending personal anecdotes with broader ethical debates.

Jefferson Morley, an award-winning journalist and expert on the JFK assassination, joins the conversation to explore the newly released documents that shed light on the CIA's involvement in John F. Kennedy’s death. They discuss the conflict between JFK and the CIA, including the vetoed Pentagon false flag plan. Morley reveals how CIA funding influenced the narrative surrounding Lee Harvey Oswald and uncovers discrepancies in officials' testimonies. The ongoing fight for transparency in accessing these crucial files highlights the agency's secrecy and historical accountability.

Justin Logan, Director of Defense and Foreign Policy Studies at the Cato Institute, dives into the complexities of U.S. foreign policy under Trump. They discuss the potential for escalating conflict in Yemen and how Trump's contrasting approaches might impact the Middle East. The conversation shifts to Europe, addressing the repercussions of U.S. troop withdrawals on NATO and Eastern European security amidst rising Russian threats. Logan also critiques the administration's military strategies versus its peace initiatives, illuminating the intricate balance of engaging in foreign conflicts.

Ross Douthat, a New York Times columnist and author of "Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious," argues for the necessity of religious belief. He explores cosmic purpose and the intriguing connection between consciousness and a larger reality. The conversation dives into the mysterious 'weirdness' of life, challenging scientific dismissals of spiritual phenomena. Douthat also discusses how personal experiences of synchronicity can shape belief, prompting listeners to reflect on faith amidst contemporary skepticism.