Newt's World

Newt talks with Mayor Alex Rounaghi and Fire Chief Niko King from the City of Laguna Beach, California about the devastating fires in Los Angeles County, which have burned over 40,000 acres, resulting in at least 24 deaths and the displacement of more than 100,000 people. The fires have destroyed over 12,000 structures, including homes, businesses, and schools. Mayor Rounaghi and Chief King share their experiences and insights on the fires, their causes, and the challenges faced by firefighters. They discuss the importance of fire safety measures, such as fuel modification and the use of goats for vegetation management, as well as the need for improved infrastructure and local water reliability. Their conversation also touches on the complexities of insurance in high-risk areas and the necessity of regulatory reforms to expedite rebuilding efforts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Xi Van Fleet, a Chinese immigrant who shares her experiences growing up during China's Cultural Revolution and her journey to America. They discuss the premiere of the documentary "Journey to America" on PBS, which celebrates the achievements of nine immigrants, including Van Fleet. She recounts the chaos of the Cultural Revolution, her struggles under Mao's regime, and her eventual escape to the United States. Van Fleet emphasizes the importance of legal immigration and the need for immigrants to assimilate and appreciate American values. The documentary aims to showcase the diverse contributions of immigrants to the United States. “Journey to America” is streaming now on PBS.org and the PBS App.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Dr. Weifeng Zhong, about the significant cybersecurity breach involving the US Treasury Department, where a hacker accessed security keys to override protocols and access unclassified documents. The US Treasury has since placed sanctions on a Beijing-based cybersecurity company for its alleged involvement in multiple hacking incidents targeting critical US infrastructure. Dr. Zhong provides insights into the broader implications of Chinese state-sponsored hacking activities, including the notorious Salt Typhoon group, which has infiltrated major US telecommunications companies. They discuss the historical context of Chinese cyber espionage, the sophisticated methods employed, and the challenges in countering these threats. Additionally, their discussion touches on the controversial role of TikTok in data collection and propaganda, and the strategic considerations for the US in addressing these multifaceted cyber threats.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt reflects on his personal memories of President Jimmy Carter, highlighting Carter's unique blend of characteristics as a South Georgia farmer, a nuclear engineer, and a reform-oriented politician. He describes Carter's rise from a one-term governor to the presidency, emphasizing his ability to connect with diverse voter groups and his commitment to big ideas. Despite Carter's initial success and notable achievements, such as the Camp David Accords, his presidency faced significant challenges, including the energy crisis and the Iranian hostage situation. Newt also discusses Carter's post-presidential contributions, particularly his work with Habitat for Humanity and The Atlanta Project. Newt provides a nuanced view of Carter as a dedicated and intelligent leader whose presidency was marked by both remarkable achievements and significant difficulties.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Larry Kudlow about President-elect Trump’s “One Big, Beautiful Bill” also known as the proposed, “Tax Cuts, Jobs and Affordability Act,” which is seen as a crucial legislative priority for the incoming Trump administration and Congressional Republicans. The act would aim to extend the 2017 tax cuts, introduce a lower corporate tax rate, and provide tax-free cash tips for service workers, among other measures. Their conversation highlights the importance of passing this bill promptly to stimulate economic growth, reduce inflation, and secure a Republican victory in the 2026 elections. Kudlow emphasizes the need for a comprehensive legislative package that includes tax cuts, energy production, and regulatory minimization to create a blue-collar boom and improve affordability for Americans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Adam Weinstein, Deputy Director of the Middle East Program at the Quincy Institute, about the tragic event on New Year’s Day when a speeding pickup truck, driven by Shamsud-Din Jabbar, plowed into a crowd on Bourbon Street, New Orleans, killing 14 and injuring 30. The incident, now considered a terrorist attack inspired by ISIS, raises concerns about the threat of lone wolf actors in the U.S. Weinstein provides insights into ISIS's tactics, recruitment strategies, and the broader implications of such attacks. Their conversation also focuses on the challenges of combating radical Islamist groups, the mental health crisis among veterans, and the need for a more diplomacy-focused U.S. foreign policy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with writer, actor, economist, and lawyer, Ben Stein about his new book, “THE PEACEMAKER Nixon: The Man, President, and My Friend.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Malcolm Gladwell, the author of six New York Times bestsellers, about his new book, “The Bomber Mafia: A Dream, A Temptation, and the Longest Night of the Second World War.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Mitch Albom, author, screenwriter, philanthropist, journalist, and broadcaster about his new novel, “The Little Liar.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Bernard Cornwell about his book, “The Last Kingdom,” one of the most successful historical fiction series of all time. The novels tell the epic story of the birth of England and introduces one of the greatest ever fictional heroes: the iconic Uhtred of Bebbanburg, the Saxon-born, Norse-raised warrior and rebel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.