

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

45 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 31min
Do ICE Officers Have 'Immunity'?
Brenna Goddard, a legal researcher specializing in holding federal officers accountable, and Nick Miroff, a staff writer covering immigration for The Atlantic, dive into the heated tensions surrounding a controversial ICE shooting. They discuss the challenges of prosecuting federal agents and reveal how the current administration's narrative emboldens ICE officers. Goddard sheds light on the complex terrain of state vs. federal authority, while Miroff highlights the internal dynamics within ICE. The conversation raises critical questions about accountability and the evolving role of federal agencies.

28 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 26min
'Aren't We Supposed to Be the Good Guys Here?'
President Donald Trump likely won’t listen to this podcast, but Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona has a warning for him: Any attempt to take Greenland using military force will probably go down as the biggest mistake made by a president in all of U.S. history.
In this conversation with Kelly, we discuss the impact of the censure letter against him sent by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the legality of U.S. military strikes in the Caribbean, the future of the Democratic Party, and his family’s response to political violence.
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24 snips
Jan 5, 2026 • 32min
Is the U.S. Running Venezuela or Not?
In a compelling discussion, Michael Scherer, a political reporter at The Atlantic, and Vivian Salama, a foreign policy journalist specializing in Latin America, dissect the recent U.S. raid on Venezuela. They analyze President Trump's shifting rhetoric and what it really means for U.S. involvement. Salama highlights the ambiguous role of Delcy Rodríguez and the challenges of a post-Maduro Venezuela, including the tangled web of political opposition and economic crises. Scherer connects this to Trump's broader strategy for hemispheric control and influence.

Jan 1, 2026 • 23min
No Easy Fix | An Update on Evan
This podcast explores the poignant journey of Evan, a man grappling with homelessness and addiction. After entering rehab, he faces both hope and uncertainty, ultimately battling the harsh realities of recovery. Through video calls, listeners witness his struggles: the dangers inside rehab facilities and the small victories at Harbor Light. A touching reunion with his son brings new motivation, while Evan's ambitions evolve as he dreams of a stable future. With ongoing health challenges, he aims for a brighter tomorrow, marking his first Christmas off the streets.

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.


