On the Media

Alsu Kurmasheva, a press freedom advocate and journalist for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, discusses the challenges of independent journalism in oppressive environments. She shares personal experiences from her nine-month detention in Russia and emphasizes the importance of organizations like hers in providing reliable news. The conversation delves into the historical evolution of shortwave radio, highlighting its transition from a tool of global connection to a weapon of propaganda. The troubling implications of cuts to U.S. foreign reporting and their celebration among authoritarian regimes are also explored.

Explore the audacious legacy of Joe Pyne, a forgotten radio pioneer whose confrontational style set the stage for future talk show titans. Delve into his fierce opposition to counterculture and Vietnam protests, revealing how he shaped conservative media in the 1960s. Discover how his provocative persona not only captivated audiences but also paved the way for shock jocks like Rush Limbaugh. Through fascinating insights and anecdotes, this narrative highlights the transformation of talk radio fueled by controversy and entertainment.

Jay Graber, CEO of Bluesky, explores the need for a decentralized social media platform that aims to safeguard user privacy and empowerment. Amanda Hess, author of 'Second Life: Having a Child in the Digital Age,' discusses how technology reshapes modern parenthood, revealing the emotional complexities that come with digital tools. Together, they highlight the rightward shift in Silicon Valley and the implications of technology on democracy and parenting, raising important questions about trust and control in a tech-dominated world.

Discover the remarkable story of Elder Lightfoot Solomon Michaux, a preacher who broadcast his powerful sermons to millions during the 1930s. While he was seen as a beacon of racial harmony, tensions arose during the civil rights movement, putting him at odds with figures like Martin Luther King Jr. Dive into the vibrancy of his community-building efforts and his lasting influence, all while navigating the complex dynamics of race and politics in America. A tale of ambition, struggle, and legacy unfolds!

Angelo Carusone, president of Media Matters, discusses the organization's battle against misinformation and legal challenges amid the rise of extremist content. Journalist Mehdi Hasan shares insights from his Jubilee debate with far-right conservatives, exploring how the channel's format aims for 'radical empathy' in political discussions. They dive into the Trump administration's manipulation of economic data and the broader implications for public trust in statistics, revealing the urgent need for integrity in today's highly polarized media landscape.

Clayton Guza, a reporter and editor at WNYC, dives into the chaotic landscape of New York City's upcoming mayoral race. He unveils a scandal regarding Eric Adams' signature collection, revealing potential forgery and misrepresentation. Guza shares emotional testimonies from individuals whose names were fraudulently used. The discussion highlights the unconventional strategies employed for gathering signatures and the ethical implications surrounding them. It’s a gripping exploration of political integrity and the public’s trust.

Join Diana Buttu, a human rights lawyer and former peace negotiator, as she discusses the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza. She highlights how the portrayal of starvation is impacting global conversations about Palestinian statehood. Media critic Oren Persico examines the Israeli media's treatment of the crisis, revealing complex narratives and the challenges faced by local journalists. Emily Nussbaum delves into the legacy of Gertrude Berg, the first sitcom creator, uncovering her influential role and the forgotten history of early television comedy.

McKay Coppins, a staff writer at The Atlantic known for his in-depth interviews with the Murdoch family, dives into the family’s intricate dynamics in this discussion. He reveals the sibling rivalry and political battles that threaten their media empire’s unity. Coppins also discusses the fallout from the infamous phone hacking scandal and how it impacted James Murdoch's career. Additionally, he draws fascinating connections between the Murdoch family's realities and the dramatized conflicts portrayed in HBO's 'Succession,' highlighting the enduring influence of their narrative on American media.

Tim Naftali, a Senior Research Scholar at Columbia University, reveals how Donald Trump is financing his presidential library through lawsuit settlements with media companies, sparking ethical debates. Katherine Mangan, a Senior writer at The Chronicle of Higher Education, discusses the Trump administration's investigations into George Mason University, highlighting the political pressure on educational institutions. Elizabeth Lopatto from The Verge uncovers the troubling background of a hacker who leaked admissions data, examining media coverage and its implications for journalistic integrity.

Jessa Crispin, a critic and editor-in-chief of The Culture We Deserve, dives into her book discussing the crisis of masculinity through Michael Douglas's films. She explores gender dynamics in classics like 'Fatal Attraction,' revealing the tension between evolving norms and societal expectations. Crispin also critiques media portrayals of women post-divorce and examines male identity in the context of modern relationships. With humor and insight, she unpacks the nostalgia for traditional masculinity while addressing the challenges men face today in a rapidly changing world.