The Journal.

Chip Cutter, a WSJ reporter covering corporate America's ties to politics, discusses major companies' strategies as they prepare for a potential second Trump administration. He highlights the surge in donations to Trump's inauguration fund, revealing motivations for influence and access. Cutter explains the evolution of corporate attitudes toward Trump, from initial skepticism to direct engagement strategies. He sheds light on CEOs gathering at Mar-a-Lago and the retreat from DEI initiatives, illustrating the complexity of navigating such political landscapes.

Anat Peled, a WSJ reporter based in Tel Aviv, discusses the fragile ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas aimed at pausing the 15-month war. She examines the complexities of hostage exchanges and the emotional responses from families on both sides. Peled highlights the uncertain future of the ceasefire and the influence of external factors like U.S. involvement. The conversation also delves into the challenges of sustaining peace amidst ongoing negotiations and the intricate balance of interests that must be navigated.

Margot Patrick, a WSJ reporter focusing on Swiss banking, unpacks her investigation into Credit Suisse's troubling historical ties to the Nazis. She reveals shocking new documents that expose the bank's deeper complicity than previously understood. The discussion highlights the ongoing struggles for justice faced by descendants of victims, the challenges posed by Swiss banking secrecy, and a recent investigation that unearthed nearly 100 active accounts linked to Nazi clients as recently as 2020. This provocative exploration sheds light on the importance of transparency in banking.

Logan Graham, Head of the Frontier Red Team at Anthropic, discusses the pressing concerns of AI safety and its potential dangers. He delves into the real-world implications of AI technology, emphasizing necessary safety testing protocols. Listeners learn about the Claude Initiative's role in evaluating AI risks, particularly focusing on malicious uses. Logan also highlights the balance between innovative AI advancements and the essential need for transparency and regulations to prevent catastrophic outcomes.

Residents of Pacific Palisades face the heartbreaking aftermath of one of the worst wildfires in U.S. history. As they return to their devastated neighborhood, stories of loss intertwine with moments of hope and resilience. The emotional toll of the fires reveals deep ties within the community, showcasing their strength in navigating grief. In the shadows of ash and ruin, the journey of coping unfolds, emphasizing the critical role of support and solidarity in rebuilding lives.

In this discussion, Jess Bravin, a WSJ reporter specializing in the Supreme Court, provides an insightful analysis of the TikTok ban case. He delves into the legal arguments surrounding national security and free speech. Bravin highlights the stark contrast between the government's concerns about foreign influence and TikTok's defense of First Amendment rights. He also covers the broader implications for content creators and public expression, making it clear that this legal battle goes beyond a mere app—it's a fight over constitutional principles.

Meta's recent shift in content moderation has sparked significant debate over free speech versus misinformation. The change means less oversight on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. History plays a role, with past controversies shaping current strategies. The challenges of combating hate speech while promoting open dialogue are explored. With evolving regulations and user experiences in mind, the future of content moderation remains uncertain, leaving many to ponder what this new era will mean for digital interactions.

Sean McLain, a WSJ reporter specializing in the auto industry, discusses the impending 2026 merger between Honda and Nissan, two former rivals. He dives into Nissan's struggles and the electric vehicle race against fierce competition from China. The conversation highlights the cultural challenges of merging distinct corporate identities and the strategic urgency behind the deal. McLain also explores how Honda's strengths could impact the new automaker's competitive stance against innovative giants like Tesla.

Vipal Monga, a WSJ reporter who covers Canadian politics, discusses Justin Trudeau's resignation after nearly a decade in office. He examines the rise and fall of Trudeau, highlighting his early promise and struggles with scandals and economic challenges. Monga details the political pressures that led to his decline, including threats to his party's stability and shifting dynamics in global progressivism. The conversation also reflects on Trudeau's legacy and the future of the Liberal Party amidst a changing political landscape.

Jessica Toonkel, a WSJ reporter specializing in Netflix's corporate dynamics, discusses the seismic shifts in the company's once-lauded culture. As Netflix scales back its 'no rules' approach, the impact on benefits like parental leave is significant. Toonkel explores the transition from a generous year-long paid leave to more traditional policies, highlighting the challenges of balancing employee needs with financial pressures. The conversation reveals how these changes reflect broader concerns about transparency and job security in a shifting corporate landscape.