The Moynihan Report

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.

In this spirited discussion, Eli Lake, a foreign policy expert and columnist, goes head-to-head with Justin Logan, a foreign policy skeptic from the Cato Institute. They debate Iran's nuclear ambitions and the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, including the implications of the JCPOA. Their conversation dives into Israel's military strategies, American interventionism, and the risks involved in navigating these geopolitical tensions. The episode also wraps up with insights on mastering journalistic interviews, blending expertise with engaging techniques.

Roya Hakakian, an Iranian-American author known for her works on Iran's complex history, shares her insights with Michael. They discuss life in Iran, revealing the struggles for freedom amidst oppression and the courage of its citizens. Roya delves into Khomeini's legacy and its lasting impact on contemporary movements, while also addressing the regime’s international reach and its implications for U.S. foreign policy. The conversation highlights the ripple effects of the 1979 revolution and explores the troubling dynamics of Iran's future leadership.

Douglas Murray, author of "On Democracies and Death Cults: Israel and the Future of Civilization," dives into provocative discussions about contemporary political culture. He critiques the shifting leftist alliances regarding Hamas and dissects the influence of figures like Joe Rogan in shaping public discourse. The conversation tackles the erosion of expertise through entertainment and the rise of conspiracy theories, emphasizing the need for informed voices in today's media landscape. Murray also reflects on the harsh realities of war and the moral complexities intertwined with such conflicts.

Brace Belden, co-host of TrueAnon, dives into a wide range of topics, including the murky waters of the Epstein saga and the evolving impact of AI on employment. He discusses the complexities of Marxism and modern political identities, riffing on protests and the current NY mayoral race. The conversation also touches on wealth, taxation, and the labor theory of value, providing a stimulating critique of economic systems. With humor and personal anecdotes, Belden challenges listeners to rethink their views on socialism and activism in today's world.

Nick Gillespie, Editor-at-Large of Reason joins The Moynihan Report to talk about where all the libertarians have gone.Subscribe to The Moynihan Report on YouTube.(00:54) Elon's Troll(03:31) Libertarian Moment(08:08) 70s Freedom(11:06) Tariffs(16:48) Agony of Abundance(23:20) Populism(29:58) Culture War(37:33) Amanpour's Fear(48:26) Big Takeaways(56:32) Questions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.