Know Your Enemy

Writer and podcaster Osita Nwanevu discusses the legendary Tom Wolfe, questioning his writing quality and conservative leanings. They compare Wolfe's style to other 'new journalists' and ponder the significance of his iconic white suit. The conversation dives into Wolfe's influence on contemporary political narratives and cultural discourses.

Analysis of the first presidential debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump. Frustration over Democratic insiders' delayed recognition of Biden's decline. Discussion on the challenges of criticizing a political figure's age-related inadequacies.

Exploring the EU election results, David Adler and David Broder discuss the strength of the far right in Europe. They examine Emmanuel Macron's response, questioning if he is welcoming the far-right into power in France. The podcast also delves into Europe's reactions to global events and shifts in political dynamics.

Writer John Ganz discusses the transformation of America and conservatism in the early 1990s. Topics include Sam Francis's radicalism, Pat Buchanan's 'culture war' speech, Ross Perot and POW-MIA, Carroll Quigley's influence on Bill Clinton, John Gotti's appeal, and how these paved the way for Donald Trump.

Historian Neil J. Young discusses the history of the gay right movement, from post-World War II struggles to the modern Trump era. Topics include gay conservatives in the conservative movement, challenges faced by gay Republicans, the impact of the AIDS crisis, and the evolving attitudes towards homosexuality within the GOP.

The podcast discusses the Trump guilty verdict, reactions from Republicans, and its potential impact on the 2024 election. They touch on topics like low-trust voters, educational polarization, and doubts about Biden. The episode explores the deep-rooted support for Trump within the Republican Party and their conspiratorial worldview.

Historian Tim Barker and editor/organizer Ben Mabie discuss the radical history of the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) in the 1930s, exploring its impact on American labor, the rise of labor militants, and the right-wing fears of a revolutionary upheaval. They delve into the inclusive industrial union approach of the CIO, its response to McCarthyism, and the challenges faced by workers in promoting solidarity amidst a changing political landscape.

Historian David Austin Walsh discusses the relationship between the far right and American conservatism, highlighting connections between mainstream figures like William F. Buckley Jr. and fringe figures like Merwin K Hart. Walsh argues that despite differences, they shared a common enemy and worldview. The conversation explores the historical ties and interactions between various conservative groups, shedding light on the complexities of the conservative coalition.

Matt Sitman, along with a group of former guests, discusses the PBS documentary on William F. Buckley Jr. They question the portrayal of Buckley, the conservative movement, and its relation to Trump. The conversation delves into the challenges of understanding historical figures in modern contexts.

Poet and writer Christian Wiman discusses poetry's connection to reality and the relationship between life and art. He challenges traditional religious narratives and explores the intertwining of faith, illness, and art. The conversation delves into the transformative power of love, the intersection of faith and despair, and the role of poetry in conveying spiritual truths.