Radio Atlantic

Julie K. Brown, an investigative reporter for the Miami Herald and author of 'Perversion of Justice: The Jeffrey Epstein Story', joins to dissect the intricacies of the Epstein case. She reveals the significant implications of Trump's recent decision to withhold government files on Epstein. Brown addresses the blurry lines between fact and fiction surrounding the scandal and debunks myths about the infamous client list. The discussion also highlights the ongoing trauma victims face and critiques the failures of the justice system in bringing justice for those affected.

Dean Spears, an economist at UT Austin and co-author of 'After the Spike', dives into the complex conversation surrounding global depopulation. He breaks down how the decision to have children intertwines with political beliefs and societal pressures. Spears highlights the implications of declining birth rates in wealthier countries, advocating for a stable population to ensure future progress. He also discusses the need for equitable gender roles in parenting and explores the emotional landscape new parents navigate amidst these societal changes.

Ken Casey, the frontman of the Celtic punk band Dropkick Murphys, shares the band's rich history rooted in working-class values. He candidly discusses the polarizing moment when he confronted a fan wearing a MAGA shirt and how the band uses music as a platform for political expression. Casey reflects on the complexities of connecting with fans who have shifted politically and explores ways to bridge divides through dialogue and authenticity in punk music. His commitment to artistic integrity shines, even as he navigates the challenges of today’s polarized environment.

In a thought-provoking discussion, writer Arash Azizi delves into Iran's political landscape and potential seismic shifts on the horizon. Azizi, who authored 'What Iranians Want,' critiques the disconnect between the current regime led by Ayatollah Khamenei and the aspirations of a younger, reform-minded populace. He reveals the complexities of leadership succession and the growing discontent with foreign interventions. The conversation also emphasizes the necessity for political solutions to address Iran's nuclear threats and the urgent quest for democracy amidst turmoil.

Olga Khazan, a staff writer and author of 'Me, But Better,' undertook a bold experiment to change her personality, aiming to become more likable. She shares her intense journey through activities like improv and meditation, ultimately striving for greater extroversion while grappling with her own neuroticism. Additionally, she discusses the significant impact of motherhood on her personality transformation. Khazan's insights reveal the potential for personal growth amidst life's challenges, making for a refreshing conversation about self-improvement.

Tom Nichols, a seasoned military analyst and staff writer for The Atlantic, explores the implications of a politically charged military parade. He discusses how Trump’s tactics might be shaping public perception of the military and the dangers of politicizing its role. Nichols addresses the complexities of deploying troops to LA during protests, unveiling the tensions in federal-state relations. The conversation also highlights how such crises may be engineered to influence civic engagement, urging the importance of active participation in democracy.

Helen Lewis, an Atlantic staff writer and author of The Genius Myth, delves into Elon Musk's reputation downfall. She discusses how he alienated both environmentalists and Trump supporters. The conversation explores the historical relationship between society and the idea of 'genius,' linking figures like Musk to Edison. Highlights include the dangers of self-identifying as a genius and the societal implications of genius narratives, particularly regarding gender. Lewis also contemplates Musk's potential paths forward amid public controversy.

Tamir Pardo, the former head of Mossad from 2011 to 2016, shares his critical views on the ongoing war in Gaza, calling it a ‘useless’ endeavor. He emphasizes the urgent need for diplomacy over military action amid rising public dissent. Pardo discusses the losses endured and the importance of prioritizing the return of hostages. He also reflects on the broader implications of military strategies, urging a reassessment of Israel’s approach to conflict resolution and healing in society.

Join Jocelyn Frank, a producer for Atlantic known for her insights on aviation safety, as she delves into why pilots often forgo vital mental health care. The discussion reveals the unintended consequences of FAA regulations that create barriers to treatment. Hear about the stigma surrounding mental health in the cockpit, the financial burdens pilots face from mandatory medical tests, and the urgent need for systemic reforms to protect both pilots and passengers. Frank’s report uncovers a critical gap in aviation safety that could affect us all.

Eric Garcia, author of 'We're Not Broken' and a political reporter at the Independent, takes a bold stand against myths surrounding autism. He dismantles the false link between vaccines and autism, while challenging the narrative of an 'autism epidemic', attributing rising diagnoses to increased awareness rather than an actual rise in cases. Garcia shares his personal journey as an autistic individual, highlights the importance of combating stigma, and advocates for a better understanding of the diverse needs within the autism community.