The Moynihan Report

Sam Tanenhaus, a historian and biographer known for his work on William F. Buckley, explores the evolution of modern conservatism. He discusses Buckley’s cultural influence beyond mere politics and the complexities in his beliefs, particularly regarding race and society. Tanenhaus highlights the theatrical nature of conservative rhetoric and its legacy, along with the paradoxes surrounding progressive ideals within a historical context. The conversation also touches on Buckley’s emotional reflections in later life and his lasting impact on political discourse.

Richard E. Farley, a New York attorney and author of "Drop Dead," dives deep into the world of corruption in NYC. He discusses the impact of greedy politicians, bankers, and lawyers who have historically bankrupted the city. The conversation touches on infamous figures like Roy Cohn, Roger Stone, and Jeffrey Epstein, revealing a tangled web of power and malfeasance. Farley also examines the current economic landscape, the implications of COVID-19, and the alarming trends that suggest history might just be repeating itself.

Ari Aster, the director known for his unsettling horror films like Hereditary, discusses his provocative new work, Eddington. He explores the intersection of COVID-era themes and political polarization, emphasizing the film's hopeful message amid dread. Aster shares insights on the challenges of authenticity in filmmaking today, especially with the rise of AI. The conversation also touches on audience perceptions, the complexities of activism portrayed in his characters, and the role of humor in addressing serious topics. A must-listen for fans of bold cinema!

Ben Smith, co-founder and editor-in-chief of Semafor and host of the Mixed Signals podcast, dives deep into the evolving intersection of media and politics. He critiques the sensationalism surrounding the Epstein files and discusses how modern populism often targets elites with serious accusations. The conversation explores the rise of independent media voices, the complexities of subscription models, and the impact of corporate influence on journalism. Smith highlights the challenges facing local news and the shifting dynamics of political narratives in today’s landscape.

Ken Klippenstein, an independent investigative journalist known for scrutinizing the Jeffrey Epstein case, joins to discuss alarming revelations about the potential number of victims. He dives into discrepancies found in government documents, questioning transparency and accountability. The conversation highlights the intersection of conspiracy theories, political trust, and the influence of wealth in shaping narratives. Klippenstein also addresses media portrayal and the complexities surrounding the financial web linked to Epstein’s abuses.

Jonathan Gould, a music historian and author of 'Burning Down The House,' dives into the legacy of Talking Heads and their role in transforming rock music. He discusses their evolution against the vibrant New York scene of the 1970s, exploring the interplay between art school influences and punk roots. Gould reveals the complexities within the band, especially the creative tensions and David Byrne's unique genius. He also reflects on the challenges of authenticity in music and the lasting impact of their groundbreaking sound.

Malcolm Bricklin, an automotive entrepreneur famed for introducing Subaru and the Yugo to America, discusses his innovative journey in the car industry. He shares lively stories about the Yugo's quirky reputation and reveals insights on electric vehicles, including his vision for the Bricklin 3EV. Bricklin also reflects on handling criticism and imparts advice he once gave Elon Musk. With a penchant for resilience and collaboration, he emphasizes the importance of wise advisors in entrepreneurship. The conversation wraps up with a light-hearted take on desert island essentials.

Amy Van Doran, a professional matchmaker and CEO of Modern Love Club, shares her fascinating journey into matchmaking and the complexities of modern romance. She discusses the impact of technology on relationships and the superficiality of dating apps while emphasizing the importance of genuine connections. With anecdotes of dating challenges, societal expectations, and cultural differences in dating norms, she uncovers the emotional landscape of love in the 21st century. Expect insights on communication, consent, and fostering meaningful connections amidst loneliness.

Ethan Strauss, host of the Random Offense podcast and former ESPN writer, dives into the nuances of sports journalism, underscoring the importance of post-game interviews in revealing athlete personalities. He also critiques the media's handling of the WNBA, shedding light on shifting perceptions around the league. The conversation then shifts to New York's political landscape, exploring party dynamics and social media's role in modern warfare. Strauss captures the yearning for meaning in today's fast-paced world and humorously contrasts cultural representations of community with its authentic dynamics.

Haviv Rettig Gur, a senior analyst for The Times of Israel and host of 'Ask Haviv Anything,' shares his insights on the tense ceasefire between Israel and Iran. He discusses Hamas's activities amidst geopolitical shifts and delves into the complexities of U.S.-Israeli relations shaped by historical events and Trump's foreign policy. The episode also touches on the humanitarian implications of urban warfare depicted on social media and critiques misunderstandings surrounding the Gaza conflict, all while interspersed with humor and personal anecdotes.