Radio Atlantic

Justin Wolford, an economist from the University of Michigan, discusses the recent turmoil in the stock market, sparked by President Trump's tariff announcements. He dives into how a sudden reversal of these tariffs led to a significant market rebound. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between investor sentiment and political decisions, exploring the psychological impacts of such announcements. Wolford also examines the broader implications for economic stability, warning of potential pitfalls for businesses amid growing uncertainty.

Adam Harris, a senior fellow at New America, shares insights on how the Trump administration's policies mirror tactics seen in Hungary under Viktor Orbán. He discusses the rising trend of conservative activists aiming to reshape universities, illustrating how attacks on diversity and academic autonomy are reshaping the educational landscape. Harris also explores the emergence of a conservative elite, highlighting institutions like Hillsdale College as models of patriotic education, and reflects on the implications for democracy in the U.S.

Shane Harris, a staff writer at The Atlantic, dives into the intricacies of classified information and national security. He unpacks a controversial Signal chat revealing sensitive military plans related to Yemen, discussing the implications of such leaks. Harris highlights the administration's contradictions and delves into potential repercussions for officials involved in the breach. The conversation also covers international fallout and allies' skepticism, emphasizing the vulnerabilities faced by U.S. officials and the urgent need for improved security protocols.

Jeffrey Goldberg, the Editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, and Shane Harris, a national security reporter, dive into a bizarre incident where Goldberg ends up in a group text with top Trump administration officials discussing military plans. They dissect the surreal nature of governmental communication failures and the risks of using informal messaging platforms for sensitive discussions. The pair also explore the implications of leaked texts on national security and the chaotic dynamics within the administration, highlighting the importance of confidentiality in government operations.

In this insightful discussion, Katie Wu, a Staff Writer at The Atlantic specializing in science, delves into the looming threat of bird flu amidst growing public health concerns. She highlights the devastating impacts on poultry farms, including the loss of millions of hens and soaring egg prices. Wu emphasizes the U.S.'s inadequate preparedness compared to the COVID response, while exploring the evolving nature of the virus and implications for food safety. The conversation also addresses the vaccine debates, stressing the importance of clear public health messaging to combat misinformation.

In a compelling discussion, Claudine Ebeid, Executive Producer of Atlantic Audio, shares her insights on Gaza's water crisis with a focus on water engineer Marwan Bardawil's harrowing journey as a refugee. They delve into how the cease-fire has altered water access and the psychological toll of displacement on families. The conversation highlights the dire conditions facing water infrastructure in Gaza, the health implications of contaminated supplies, and the persistent resilience of those dedicated to rebuilding amidst chaos.

Dan Engber, a science writer at The Atlantic, dives into the controversial world of facilitated communication for non-speaking autistic children. He explores emotional parent-child connections and the complexities of interpreting communication through a skeptical lens. Engber questions whether the ability to seemingly read minds comes from genuine understanding or a deep desire for connection. The discussion also touches on how societal beliefs in telepathy impact our perception of such extraordinary claims.

Randy Thom, a renowned supervising sound designer known for his work on iconic films like Star Wars and The Iron Giant, dives into the captivating world of sound design in robotics. He discusses the emotional depth needed to portray a robot learning to love, and the intricate challenges of creating authentic robotic voices. Thom also explores how breathing sounds and mechanical noises can bring life to characters, all while balancing emotion and technology. His insights reveal the profound impact sound has on storytelling in modern animation.

Anne Applebaum, author of "Autocracy, Inc.", and Shane Harris, national security expert at The Atlantic, discuss the declining trust among allies in U.S. intelligence sharing. They explore the end of the post-World War II order and the implications of recent U.S. foreign policy shifts, particularly in the context of Russia and Ukraine. The conversation highlights concerns over proposed demands on Ukraine’s sovereignty and the broader impact of changing geopolitical alliances on European security dynamics.

Yoni Applebaum, author of "Stuck," dives into the decline of American mobility and its societal implications. He explores how economic pressures have trapped people in place, shattering the quintessential American dream of moving up. The conversation highlights the historical evolution of mobility, the urban struggles in areas like Lower Manhattan, and the unintended consequences of gentrification. Applebaum challenges perceptions of community change and reflects on the complex relationship between mobility and social connections in contemporary America.