Decoder with Nilay Patel

Samantha Power, the former U.S. ambassador to the UN and Harvard professor, dives into the complexities of global governance and health crises. She reflects on the Trump administration's missteps during the pandemic and contrasts it with Obama’s Ebola response. Power addresses the rising influence of tech giants like Bill Gates and shares lessons from Taiwan on tackling disinformation. The conversation also touches on navigating political divides and the importance of separating science from politics during crises, urging for a collaborative approach to global challenges.

Barry Lyga, author of thrillers like "I Hunt Killers," and Morgan Baden, a best-selling ghostwriter, discuss their young adult novel, 'The Hive.' They delve into how it portrays a near-future dystopia dominated by social media, where participation is mandatory for teens. The authors reflect on the pressures of perfection and mob justice in digital spaces. They share insights into current trends in YA literature, their personal critiques of social media's impact, and the intricacies of adapting books into screen formats.

Symone Sanders, a senior advisor to Joe Biden and former press secretary for Bernie Sanders, shares her political journey and insights from her memoir, "No, You Shut Up." She discusses the challenges of the 2020 campaign amidst a pandemic, emphasizing the significance of diverse leadership. Sanders offers advice for protesters and highlights the importance of accountability on social media platforms in fighting misinformation. Her reflections on representing marginalized voices in politics provide a powerful call to action for future generations.

Jason Fried, CEO of Basecamp, discusses his company’s ambitious email product, Hey, and how it aims to disrupt traditional email norms with user consent and privacy in focus. He shares insights on the shift to remote work prompted by the pandemic, emphasizing flexibility over physical offices. Fried critiques Zoom calls, labels Uber a 'shitty business,' and outlines his views on tech regulation. His candid take on public CEO roles offers a refreshing perspective on leadership in the tech world.

Katie Couric, a renowned media personality, discusses the unique nature of today’s political protests and the challenges journalists face balancing objectivity with advocacy. She reflects on her famous interview with Sarah Palin, shares insights from her upcoming memoir, and explores the ongoing battle over Confederate history. Couric also assesses the divided landscape of American news and reveals what she would ask Donald Trump in a hypothetical interview, offering an engaging look into the evolving world of media.

Jill Lepore, a Harvard history professor and New Yorker staff writer, dives into the quest for truth in her new podcast, The Last Archive. She discusses the importance of addressing America's complex history, especially in light of recent social movements. Lepore critiques traditional narratives of American history, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach. The conversation also explores the interplay between technology, data, and social justice, revealing how these elements shape modern understanding. Plus, she speculates on the legacy of 2020 from a historian's perspective.

Bart Gellman, an award-winning journalist and author of 'Dark Mirror,' shares his insights on Edward Snowden and the American surveillance state. He recounts his journey connecting with Snowden before the famous leaks, revealing the enormity of the U.S. government's digital surveillance. Gellman discusses the lasting impact of these revelations on privacy and the tech industry, emphasizing that concerns over data collection remain critical. He also argues that debates on Snowden's loyalty distract from essential discussions on individual rights and technology's role in society.

In this engaging conversation, Andy Puddicombe, co-founder of Headspace, shares insights on meditation and strategies for better sleep during stressful times. Robin Arzon, VP of fitness programming at Peloton, discusses how to stay fit and focused while exercising at home, emphasizing control over what you can manage. Spiritual thought leader Marianne Williamson reflects on the 'great reckoning' in America, linking personal healing to systemic change. Together, they explore the intersection of mental health, fitness, and societal transformation.

Frances Frei, a Harvard Business School professor renowned for her expertise in leadership and organizational culture, engages in a lively discussion with Kara Swisher. They delve into her new book on empowering leadership, tackling the systemic challenges faced by women and people of color in corporate settings. Frei shares insights from her experiences at Uber and WeWork, emphasizing the need for unapologetic leadership. The conversation also reflects on the moral responsibility of CEOs in promoting ethical workplace cultures amid evolving societal expectations.

Daniel Schreiber, CEO and co-founder of Lemonade, revolutionizes the insurance industry with AI-driven solutions. He discusses how Lemonade allocates customer premiums for COVID-19 relief and the company's push for transparency and community support. Schreiber emphasizes the importance of ethics in business, comparing his approach to Ulysses’ wisdom instead of Zuckerberg’s pitfalls. He also shares insights on automation in insurance and the necessity of fostering trust amid changing consumer demands.