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
May 23, 2024 • 32min
Russia’s Psychological Warfare Against Ukraine
Anne Applebaum, Atlantic staff writer, discusses Russia's psychological warfare against Ukraine, including the new propaganda war shaping the fate of the country. Topics also cover the impact of Russian aggression, Ukraine's battle against mistrust, and the global influence of Russia's propaganda tactics.
May 16, 2024 • 27min
Finally, Male Contraceptives
Researchers are working on various male contraceptives like a hormone-free pill, reversible injection, and topical gel. The focus is on easy, convenient options with minimal side effects, unlike women's contraceptives. The podcast discusses the implications of readily available male contraceptives and their impact on men's health care.
8 snips
May 9, 2024 • 33min
The Chaos of AI Voice Cloning
Discover the chaos and intrigue of AI voice cloning as two colleagues test the technology on a live audience. Explore the rise of AI voice cloning and its potential for deception. Dive into the dreams of a universal language tool and unravel the challenges and risks of AI voice cloning. Navigating uncertainty and exploring the power and risks of synthesized speech in the digital age.
May 2, 2024 • 29min
If Plants Could Talk
Exploring the intriguing world of plant intelligence and communication, including the manipulation of genes to create glowing petunias. Delving into how plants react to sound vibrations and the complex ways they communicate with each other. Discussing the debate on plant decision-making capabilities and the ethics of keeping plants as houseplants.
4 snips
Apr 25, 2024 • 24min
In Search of America on the Biggest Cruise Ship Ever
Writer Gary Shteyngart embarks on the biggest cruise ship to find 'real' America but discovers isolation instead. He details the bizarre characters, terrible food, and the pressure to keep up appearances. The podcast delves into the luxury, hierarchy, and reflections at sea, the social challenges of fitting in, and how the cruise ship experience reflects American identity and societal aspects like politics and status obsession.
Apr 18, 2024 • 28min
Trump’s Courtroom Campaign
Guest David Graham, Atlantic staff writer, discusses the importance of the Stormy Daniels case in holding Trump accountable for election interference. Exploring Trump's courtroom campaigning tactics and the complexities of proving wrongdoing. Analyzing the legal challenges and implications in the Trump era.
Apr 11, 2024 • 25min
Money Can Buy You Everything, Except Maybe a Birkin Bag
Join Atlantic staff writer Amanda Mull as she discusses the lawsuit against Hermès regarding Birkin bag purchases. Dive into the evolving luxury market, the allure of exclusive items, and the emotional significance of owning pricey handbags.
Apr 4, 2024 • 20min
During the Eclipse, Don't Just Look Up
Marina Koren and Fred Espenak discuss the eclipse as a peculiar event and its impact. They share experiences of witnessing total eclipses and reflect on the awe-inspiring nature of celestial events. The podcast dives into the emotional and sensory allure of total eclipses, emphasizing the profound impact of totality. Reflective discussions on time, memories, and the mysteries of the universe add depth to the conversation.
Mar 28, 2024 • 27min
Do Trump Supporters Mind When He Mocks Biden’s Stutter?
Atlantic political reporter John Hendrickson, who has a stutter, investigates Trump supporters' reactions to Trump mocking Biden's stutter. At a Trump rally in Ohio, the crowd's response is examined. The podcast delves into the complexities of disability, politics, and personal experiences with stuttering.
6 snips
Mar 21, 2024 • 30min
The Smartphone Kids Are Not All Right
A dialogue between a parent and their child about smartphone use. Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt discusses the link between smartphones and mental health. The parent asks their child if they ruined their life. The podcast explores the impact of smartphones on teenagers' mental health and social interactions.
