Next Question with Katie Couric

If you only listen to one thing to make sense of the news this year… make it this. The final episode of this season of Next Question pulls together the most important conversations of the year. You’ll hear David Graham on Project 2025, Liz Oyer on the plethora of presidential pardons, Tina Brown on the year’s biggest scandals here at home and across the pond. Plus, many more. It’s a crash course in the last twelve months, how we made it through the year, and a look at what might be coming in 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Katie turns to veteran New York Times correspondent David Sanger to help make sense of a whirlwind few weeks in national security. Sanger explains why President Trump is using the U.S. military in ways he’s never seen in the five presidencies he’s covered—from sinking more than 20 boats in the Caribbean to deploying the National Guard in cities without clear emergencies. Katie presses him on the unanswered questions around those strikes, including a reported second hit on a burning boat and why the administration won’t release basic information.They also dig into the leaked Russia-Ukraine peace plan and the questions raised about how closely it aligns with Kremlin preferences. And as they discuss the tragic killing of the National Guard member in D.C., Sanger makes the case for why America still owes its Afghan allies protection—now more than ever.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bobbi Brown, a celebrated makeup artist and entrepreneur, shares candid insights from her memoir, Still Bobbi. She discusses her early struggles with family resilience and how influential women shaped her identity. With humor, Bobbi recounts her journey from waitressing to launching Bobbi Brown Cosmetics and later, Jones Road at 62. She emphasizes a philosophy of natural beauty, adapts to social media, and answers audience questions on aging and confidence. Throughout, her message of authenticity and reinvention shines bright.

Dr. Zachary Roberts, Chief Medical Officer at Allogene Therapeutics and an expert in immunology, sheds light on the revolutionary potential of allogeneic CAR T-cell therapy. He discusses the triumphs of CAR T in treating blood cancers and the daunting barrier of patient access, with only 20% receiving treatment. Roberts unveils how 'off-the-shelf' therapies, using donor T-cells, promise to bypass manufacturing hurdles. He also highlights the innovative Alpha-3 trial, aiming to treat high-risk patients earlier for better outcomes.

Sarah McBride, the first openly transgender member of Congress and former Delaware state senator, shares insights from her challenging freshman year. She discusses the chaos of Trump’s second term, the stigma surrounding trans rights, and the importance of hope in politics. McBride elaborates on the need for bipartisan collaboration, the impact of economic insecurity on democracy, and strategies to counter anti-trans backlash. She emphasizes storytelling and education to foster understanding and compassion, all while advocating for an affordability-driven campaign strategy.

Senator John Fetterman, a U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania and author of the memoir Unfettered, candidly discusses his journey through recovery after a stroke and ongoing struggles with depression. He shares his staunch opposition to government shutdowns and reflects on his encounters with both political allies and critics. Fetterman highlights the importance of discussing mental health openly, recounts his near-death experience, and emphasizes the urgent need for civil discourse in politics. His message is clear: the world is better with each of us in it.

Scott Galloway, bestselling author and professor, discusses his book on modern masculinity, spotlighting the struggles young men face today, including alarming statistics on mental health and economic challenges. He introduces his three Ps: protect, provide, and procreate, urging men to support vulnerable communities. Galloway tackles the balance between advocating for women's rights and addressing male loneliness. With humor and honesty, he explores mentorship barriers and the need for empathy across gender lines.

ABC News Chief Washington Correspondent Jonathan Karl has spent nearly a decade chronicling Trump–and being attacked by him. Trump has called him “a third-rate reporter,” “a real scumbag,” and worse. But he also keeps picking up Karl’s calls. Karl joins Katie to talk about his new book Retribution: Donald Trump and the Campaign That Changed America and shares sharp, insider insight into Trump’s fixation on revenge, his loyalty-first Cabinet, and how his second term has reshaped the presidency… and the country.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zohran Mamdani, an elected New York State Assembly member and mayoral candidate, shares his vision for a more affordable NYC. He discusses ambitious policies like universal childcare, free buses, and rent freezes. Mamdani emphasizes the importance of protecting immigrant communities and committing to sanctuary protections. He also addresses the need for revenue through taxes on the wealthy and corporate reforms while advocating for inclusivity and unity in a polarized city. His commitment to listening to constituents highlights a fresh approach to leadership.

Former U.S. Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul joins Katie Couric to talk about his new book, Autocrats vs. Democrats: China, Russia, America, and the New Global Disorder. McFaul says America’s retreat from global leadership hasn’t just left a vacuum: it’s helped autocrats like Putin and Xi fill it. So where does that leave democracy? Together, they dig into what happens when the U.S. pulls back, why isolationism is making a comeback, and what it will take to reassert our moral and political leadership on the world stage. It’s a fascinating–and surprisingly hopeful–conversation about power, principle, and possibility.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.