Decoder with Nilay Patel

Jon Meacham, Pulitzer Prize-winning author and historian, shares his insights on resilience during crises in American history. He discusses his new podcast, highlighting the parallels between past events like the Great Depression and the 1918 flu pandemic with today's challenges. Meacham cautions against viewing history as simpler times, reflecting on the politicization of current issues and its implications for democracy. He also ponders Joe Biden’s potential impact and reveals what he's writing next, offering a thought-provoking perspective on the future of American leadership.

In this engaging chat, Maye Musk, a seasoned model, dietitian, and author, discusses her memoir, offering insights on living beautifully and adventurously. She delves into ageism in modeling, the pitfalls of trendy diets, and her role as a supportive figure to her entrepreneurial children, including Elon Musk. Maye shares personal stories about resilience, adapting to challenges, and the significance of family during tough times. Plus, she contemplates the wild idea of joining Elon on a Mars mission!

Joe Walsh, a former Republican Congressman and author of "F*ck Silence," shares his journey from supporting Trump to challenging him during the 2020 primaries. He describes the Republican Party as a "cult" and discusses the true impact of Trump on future elections. Walsh believes the pandemic is awakening voters to the need for change and predicts a conservative third party led by disillusioned Republicans. He also stresses the importance of Biden selecting a well-known vice presidential candidate to galvanize support in the upcoming election.

Scott Galloway, an NYU professor and co-host of Pivot, shares his insights on the disruptive potential in healthcare and higher education. He discusses his new show on Vice TV, shedding light on media’s evolving landscape, and critiques higher ed elitism while advocating for reforms like abolishing tenure. Galloway also anticipates how COVID-19 will reshape cities and industries, emphasizing the role of big tech in revolutionizing healthcare. The conversation is peppered with humor and personal reflections, making it both engaging and thought-provoking.

Political historian Alexis Coe, author of the bestselling biography of George Washington, discusses her groundbreaking work and the misconceptions surrounding America's first president. She critiques traditional narratives shaped by male historians, revealing hidden truths about Washington's mother and his legacy as a slaver. The importance of libraries as cultural hubs is also highlighted, alongside Coe's exploration of the tragic love story of Alice and Frederica, demonstrating how biases skew historical remembrance.

Alex Kantrowitz, a BuzzFeed News reporter and author of "Always Day One: How The Tech Titans Plan To Stay On Top Forever," dives into how major tech companies like Amazon and Apple adapt to challenges and stay innovative. He discusses the pandemic's impact on consumer relationships with tech giants and the potential for a labor movement. Kantrowitz also highlights TikTok's role in fostering creativity among youth and compares Apple's current situation to Microsoft under Steve Ballmer, emphasizing the need for educational reform over automation in the future of work.

Ryan Murphy, the renowned TV producer behind hits like Glee and American Horror Story, delves into his new Netflix miniseries, Hollywood, which reimagines postwar cinema through a lens of inclusivity. He shares insights on how shows have fostered LGBT acceptance and compares his experiences at Netflix versus traditional networks. Murphy also discusses the evolution of representation in media, the impact of COVID-19 on entertainment, and reflects on his youthful defiance during a road trip to New York in the 80s.

Dave Asprey, the founder of Bulletproof and a pioneer in biohacking, shares fascinating insights into optimizing health. He discusses how his personal journey shaped the biohacking movement and the importance of personalized nutrition and sleep quality, claiming eight hours of sleep is 'garbage science.' Asprey also explores innovative treatments like cryotherapy, the role of meditation in wellness, and his ambitious goal of living to 180. His entertaining anecdotes invite listeners to rethink health trends and cultivate a more balanced life.

Nikole Hannah-Jones, a New York Times Magazine reporter and creator of the 1619 Project, dives deep into how the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed and highlighted existing inequalities in the U.S. She discusses the often-overlooked struggles of essential workers and the urgent need for better pay and recognition. Hannah-Jones also explores the education and health disparities affecting Black and Latino communities, linking these issues to systemic racism and historical failures. Her insights spark a conversation about the necessary changes for a more equitable future.

Bestselling author Sarah Kendzior, known for her sharp political insights, discusses her book 'Hiding in Plain Sight' and analyzes the systemic factors leading to Trump's rise. She critiques how media treats Trump’s online behavior and shares her thoughts on income inequality and authoritarianism. Kendzior argues that Trump's base may not be as large as perceived and explores the urgent need for accountability in politics. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology on governance and the struggles for democracy amidst crisis.