Slate News

Roger Ailes, a pioneer in television and founder of Fox News, and Rupert Murdoch, the media mogul behind its rise, dive into their groundbreaking journey. They discuss the creation of America's Talking, Ailes' vision for apolitical broadcasting, and the subsequent launch of Fox News aimed at a 'normal' audience. Their rivalry with major networks and the strategic manipulations that shaped partisan news are unveiled. Ailes' staffing challenges, particularly regarding women, and how these dynamics influenced Fox News’ branding and success are also explored.

Sophie Hurwitz, a politics and social movements reporter at Mother Jones, joins Michael S. Roth, president of Wesleyan University, to discuss the evolving nature of campus protests. They explore how universities are balancing the regulation of protests with the principles of free speech. Hurwitz and Roth dive into the implications of new policies that might confuse students. They also highlight recent protests at Wesleyan regarding divestment and the critical role of youth activism ahead of the 2024 elections.

Shane Harris, an intelligence and national security reporter at the Washington Post, joins to discuss Israel's recent military actions against Hezbollah. They dive into what Israel's blowing up of pagers and walkie-talkies really signifies in the geopolitical landscape. The conversation examines the moral implications of civilian safety amidst military strategies, and how these actions are perceived internationally. The evolution of Hezbollah from a militant group to a political entity also plays a key role in their analysis.

In this enlightening discussion, Yvette Nicole Brown, a talented comedic actress and caregiver, shares her profound journey caring for her father with Alzheimer's. Joined by Jason Johnson, they explore the emotional and practical challenges of caregiving. Yvette delves into the importance of community support and the gender dynamics that often weigh heavily on caregivers, particularly women. They emphasize the need for political advocacy to uplift caregivers and provide real-world advice on how friends can support them, highlighting the narrative's importance in media.

Laura Loomer, a controversial political provocateur, has made waves as a key figure in the Trump campaign, leveraging her internet notoriety to gain influence. In conversation with Ken Bensinger, a politics reporter for the New York Times, she discusses her unorthodox rise from online controversies to political insider status. They explore the use of memes and trolling in shaping right-wing narratives and the internal tensions among MAGA supporters. The duo also examines how these dynamics affect electoral strategies and the evolving landscape of political discourse.

Dr. Jessi Gold, a psychiatrist and advocate for healthcare worker well-being, shares her insights into the mental health crisis engulfing caregivers. She reflects on her own experience with burnout that led to a significant mistake with a patient. The conversation emphasizes the stigma around seeking help and the urgent need for support systems. Dr. Gold discusses her book, examining the shared struggles healthcare workers face and the importance of finding humanity in their demanding roles.

Financial journalist Felix Salmon, reporter Emily Peck, and media entrepreneur Elizabeth Spiers dive into the recent Federal Reserve interest rate cuts. They discuss how these changes might reshape the economy and influence voters. The trio also critiques Trump's tax cut proposals, questioning their viability. In a quirky twist, they touch on Tupperware's bankruptcy, hinting at an underground container-sharing movement. There's even a mention of a whimsical bread lamp, showcasing the humorous side of unexpected topics in finance.

In this discussion, journalist Linda Greenhouse, a former Supreme Court correspondent for The New York Times, reveals the intricate dynamics of the current Supreme Court. She analyzes Chief Justice Roberts' unexpected alignment with Trump-related decisions and the resulting public backlash from earlier rulings. The conversation delves into the court's issues with leaks, trust, and transparency. Greenhouse poses critical questions about the implications of upcoming election cases, highlighting the evolving challenges the Chief Justice faces in navigating public sentiment and judicial integrity.

Emily Bazelon, an acclaimed journalist and author; John Dickerson, a seasoned political correspondent; David Plotz, a prominent journalist and editor; and Josh Levin, host of Slow Burn, dissect the alarming rise of political violence in the U.S. They analyze how extreme rhetoric fosters hatred and fear. The conversation pivots to the presidential race, exploring immigration debates, polling dynamics, and unexpected endorsements. They also delve into the influential role of Fox News, from its origins in journalism to today’s partisan landscape.

Maya Rosen, an Israel/Palestine Fellow at Jewish Currents, dives into the rise of tourism in Israel post-October 7th. She discusses the complexities of solidarity tours, revealing emotional stories and the psychological impact on participants. The conversation addresses the disconnect between tourists' experiences and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, questioning the ethics of visiting sites of tragedy. Rosen emphasizes the need for sensitivity towards local trauma, balancing education and respect in these tumultuous times.