Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay

Senator Brian Schatz, a U.S. Senator from Hawaii, discusses his tweet about engaging MAGA supporters, emphasizing coalition-building and pragmatic policy strategies. He dives into the challenges of converting disillusioned voters and the importance of working with diverse political allies to achieve meaningful change. WNBA legend Angel McCoughtry joins to tackle men’s often dismissive comments about the WNBA, highlighting the need for respect and visibility for women athletes while addressing the cultural pressures driving these comparisons. Her insights prompt a deeper conversation about the evolution of women's sports.

Van and Rachel dive into the fractures within the MAGA movement, exploring why former supporters have regrets. They critique Marjorie Taylor Greene's apology for its sincerity and discuss Epstein emails hinting at provocative claims involving Trump. Michelle Obama weighs in on America's readiness for a woman president, while Pharrell expresses his distaste for politics. Meanwhile, Eric Adams's remarks about serving in Israel raise eyebrows, prompting a lively discussion about community perception and optics.

Emma Vigeland, a progressive political commentator and co-host on The Majority Report, dives into the newly released Epstein files, discussing their potential impact on narratives around Trump and elite politics. She delves into the connection between Epstein and intelligence operations while exploring the dynamics of progressive disagreements. The conversation also touches on coalition-building, electoral strategies, and the challenges of addressing antisemitism. Plus, Rachel and Van rate the sincerity of public apologies, leading to some lighthearted film banter.

Rep. Summer Lee, a progressive lawmaker from Pennsylvania, joins the conversation to dive deep into the complexities of the government shutdown and its aftermath. She discusses the critical impact of expiring healthcare subsidies on low-income Americans and advocates for systemic reforms to limit super PAC influence. The discussion also touches on the importance of diverse political messengers, the accountability of leadership, and the need to engage voters effectively. Plus, there's some lighthearted banter about the controversy surrounding James Talarico's social media habits and reactions to the new Michael Jackson biopic trailer.

Jesse Blake, a Canadian sports podcaster with SDPN, joins the conversation to dive into the thrill of being a Toronto Blue Jays fan. He recounts the heartbreak of pivotal game moments and how fan culture stirs rivalries, especially with LA. The talk shifts to recent elections, including Zohran Mamdani's impactful win, and its resonance in NYC. The group also explores the evolving conversation around relationships and social media pressures on public displays of affection, questioning if having a boyfriend is still seen as cool.

Karine Jean-Pierre, former White House press secretary and author, dives into her new book discussing her experiences in a broken White House and her decision to leave the Democratic Party. She shares insights about the Biden administration's successes, failures, and internal conflicts ahead of the 2024 campaign. Oluwajomiloju Adeniran joins to celebrate the Dodgers' World Series win and engage in a vital conversation about the implications of SNAP funding cuts, spotlighting the impact on working-class Americans. This dynamic dialogue blends politics with a love for sports!

This week, Abby Phillip, CNN anchor and author of 'A Dream Deferred,' joins the discussion. She delves into Jesse Jackson's vital role in the fight for Black political power and examines his impactful legacy. The conversation also highlights the challenges of multiracial unity in politics today. Furthermore, the hosts dissect the alarming absence of rap songs in the Billboard Hot 100 and explore how cultural and industry shifts are threatening hip-hop's traditional dominance. A thought-provoking dialogue filled with valuable insights!

Roy Wood Jr., a comedian and correspondent for The Daily Show, shares heartfelt insights from his memoir, focusing on fatherhood and the pivotal role of mentors in shaping young lives. He discusses his journey of forgiveness and community impact, emphasizing that every child is a shared responsibility. Ed Zitron, a technology writer, analyzes the current AI boom, questioning whether it’s a transformative force or an overhyped bubble. He dives into the economics of AI, the sustainability of data centers, and the risks investors face as the tech landscape evolves.

Logan Murdock, a writer and podcaster from The Ringer, joins the discussion to dive into the NBA gambling scandal involving high-profile arrests and its impact on sports integrity. He explores how gambling has shifted sports fandom and heightened cynicism among fans. The conversation also tackles the intersection of masculinity and style, with Logan candidly sharing his experience painting his nails. Finally, they weigh in on the controversial backlash against Keke Palmer's new show, highlighting the nuances of representation in media.

In this engaging discussion, Akbar Ahmed, a Senior diplomatic correspondent at the Huffington Post and foreign policy expert, shares insights on the fragile ceasefire in Gaza, addressing recent violations and the humanitarian impact on millions. He delves into the motivations behind Qatar's role in negotiations and the complexities of Israeli politics. Rachel and Van also explore the provocative 'No Kings' protests and controversies surrounding social media accountability, making for a thought-provoking conversation that highlights current socio-political dynamics.