Radio Atlantic
The Atlantic
The Atlantic has long been known as an ideas-driven magazine. Now we’re bringing that same ethos to audio. Like the magazine, the show will “road test” the big ideas that both drive the news and shape our culture. Through conversations—and sometimes sharp debates—with the most insightful thinkers and writers on topics of the day, Radio Atlantic will complicate overly simplistic views. It will cut through the noise with clarifying, personal narratives. It will, hopefully, help listeners make up their own mind about certain ideas.The national conversation right now can be chaotic, reckless, and stuck. Radio Atlantic aims to bring some order to our thinking—and encourage listeners to be purposeful about how they unstick their mind.
Episodes
Mentioned books
12 snips
Dec 25, 2025 • 26min
Netflix vs. Paramount
David Sims, an Atlantic film critic, dissects the implications of the Warner Bros. Discovery sale amid a bidding war between Paramount and Netflix. He raises alarms about how studio consolidation could stifle creativity and diversity in filmmaking. Meanwhile, Frank Foer, an Atlantic staff writer, explores the alarming potential for presidential influence over media mergers, particularly with Trump’s possible involvement. Together, they reveal the risks to both cinematic artistry and democratic integrity with this emerging media landscape.
29 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 28min
ISIS Never Really Went Away
Graham Wood, a staff writer and expert on jihadist movements, delves into the persistent threat of ISIS, explaining how it continues to inspire violence worldwide. He discusses recent deadly attacks linked to the group in Syria and Australia, highlighting their evolving tactics and recruitment strategies, particularly in the Philippines. Wood emphasizes the connection between world events, like the Gaza conflict, and ISIS's ability to motivate isolated actors. Despite the loss of its caliphate, he argues that ISIS's simple ideology still resonates with many, fueling ongoing local terrorism.
8 snips
Dec 11, 2025 • 39min
He's Undocumented. She's Not.
Maddie Polovic, a U.S. citizen and nonprofit worker, and Matt Borowski, an undocumented immigrant from Poland, share their heartfelt journey as a Chicago couple grappling with immigration challenges. They dive into the daily anxieties of undocumented life and the emotional weight of DACA's collapse. As they confront the possibility of relocating to Poland, they explore competing definitions of home and the impact of their decision on family and community ties. Their candid discussions reveal the complexity of love amid uncertainty and the resilience required to adapt.
44 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 30min
Is This the End of Kids on Social Media?
Julie Inman Grant, Australia's e-safety commissioner, and Dr. Jo Orlando, a researcher in digital well-being, delve into Australia's groundbreaking move to ban kids under 16 from social media. They discuss potential impacts on teen social connections and the enforcement challenges of age verification. While Inman Grant emphasizes child protection and layered age assurance, Orlando critiques the ban as a superficial solution, advocating for deeper social and educational strategies. The conversation highlights both the risks and benefits of social media in young lives.
26 snips
Nov 27, 2025 • 33min
How Alison Roman Does Thanksgiving
Alison Roman, a celebrated cookbook author known for her minimalist approach to cooking, shares her insights on Thanksgiving traditions and family meals. She discusses the art of keeping it simple with vegetable sides while mastering the turkey. Roman reveals her experiences with food media, emphasizing authenticity amid a crowded field. She dives into her pantry philosophy, whipping up dishes on the spot, and reflects on her personal journey cooking for her baby. With humor, she addresses food culture's evolution, stressing the importance of self-love and authenticity in the kitchen.
Nov 20, 2025 • 40min
When Border Patrol Comes to Town
Nick Miroff, a staff writer at The Atlantic, dives into the controversial tactics of the Border Patrol in urban areas. He explores the shift from ICE to Border Patrol, highlighting the aggressive enforcement methods and militarized presence in cities like Chicago and North Carolina. Miroff discusses the cultural differences between the two agencies, the impact of viral videos, and the political implications of these operations. He also addresses the declining profile of criminal targets and community reactions to these high-stakes raids.
81 snips
Nov 13, 2025 • 28min
What If AI Is a Bubble?
Charlie Warzel, a tech and culture writer at the Atlantic, dives into the staggering $375 billion AI investment landscape. He explores whether the AI boom is a bubble, drawing parallels to the dot-com era. Discussion points include the heavy infrastructure spending fueling this growth and concerns over revenue gaps. Warzel also warns of potential contagion risks from complex financial deals, and debates the societal implications if AI either crashes or succeeds drastically. It's a revealing look at what the future might hold for tech and culture.
88 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 27min
Will 2026 Be a Fair Fight?
David A. Graham, a Staff writer at The Atlantic specializing in national politics, discusses pressing threats to election integrity. He highlights the challenges Democrats face as Republicans may manipulate election rules, using tactics that intimidate voters and candidates. Graham examines potential scenarios for 2026, including the effects of gerrymandering and the risks of chaos on election night. He warns about the systemic pressures and outlines the importance of vigilance in preserving free and fair elections amidst emerging authoritarian trends.
13 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 25min
Strike First, Explain Never
Nancy Youssef, a national security reporter for The Atlantic, dives into the controversial U.S. military strikes on boats in the Caribbean. She challenges the administration's fentanyl rationale, emphasizing law enforcement insights that dispute claims of drug origins. Discussing the deployment of the USS Gerald Ford, Youssef explains its symbolic significance for U.S. military commitment. She also highlights concerns over Pentagon transparency and the implications of escalating military actions in the region.
77 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 35min
18 Minutes From Nuclear Annihilation
Screenwriter Noah Oppenheim, known for "A House of Dynamite," and Tom Nichols, a national-security expert, dive into the nail-biting reality of nuclear command decisions. They discuss the terrifying 18-minute time frame for U.S. presidents in crises, emphasizing human fallibility amid rehearsed procedures. Nichols warns of irrational leaders exacerbating risks, while Oppenheim highlights the film's portrayal of rational decision-makers to showcase systemic flaws. They also touch on the current state of nuclear proliferation and the need for public engagement to reduce the threat.
