On the Media

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.

Dan Friedman, a senior reporter for Mother Jones, delves into Trump's tumultuous ties with Jeffrey Epstein, dissecting the rift within the MAGA movement fueled by conspiracy theories. Jessa Crispin, critic and editor-in-chief of The Culture We Deserve, examines the 'masculinity crisis' using Michael Douglas films as a lens. Through iconic roles, she highlights the evolving portrayals of masculinity and questions traditional gender norms, inviting listeners to reflect on the cultural implications of these narratives.

Nathaniel Rich, a contributing writer for the New York Times Magazine and author of 'Second Nature', discusses New Orleans as a model for climate disaster preparedness. He explores how residents have learned to navigate hurricane threats with proactive strategies. The conversation delves into Louisiana's Coastal Master Plan, balancing environmental restoration with community livelihoods. Rich also addresses feelings of hopelessness among younger generations, highlighting the importance of civic engagement and finding hope amidst climate challenges.

Ed Zitron, tech industry commentator and host of the Better Offline podcast, discusses the AI hype cycle and its overblown narratives, particularly in the context of the U.S.-China tech race. Mark Henry Phillips, a composer and former producer, shares his insights on the existential threat AI poses to musicians, exploring the implications of AI-generated music. Their conversation raises questions about creativity, job security, and the potential for AI to reshape the music industry as it imitates human artistry.

Amanda Hess, author of 'Second Life: Having a Child in the Digital Age,' dives into the landscape of modern parenthood and technology. She discusses how apps and social media have transformed pregnancy, from empowerment tools to sources of anxiety. The conversation reveals the commodification of personal data and the emotional toll on expectant parents navigating health uncertainties. Hess also critiques the reliance on gadgets like the SNOO bassinet while emphasizing the need for communal support in a society often dismissive of caregiving.

Mike Gonzalez, a Senior Fellow at The Heritage Foundation, argues against public broadcasting funding, calling for cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Sage Smiley, News Director at KYUK, highlights local public radio's critical role in providing essential information to the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region. They discuss the ongoing political battles over funding amidst accusations of bias, the importance of local journalism for community accountability, and the necessity of public media during crises like wildfires and climate change.

Joseph M. Thompson, an assistant professor and author, dives into the captivating history of country music's transformation into a symbol of U.S. patriotism. He discusses how the genre evolved with the help of the military in the 1940s and 50s. The conversation highlights the overlooked role of Black musicians, the complex relationship between country music and nationalism, and the influence of iconic songs like 'God Bless the USA.' Thompson reveals the ironic government support for a genre often associated with anti-government sentiments, adding depth to our understanding of cultural identity.

In this enlightening discussion, Paul Offit, Director of the Vaccine Education Center and co-inventor of the rotavirus vaccine, dives deep into the implications of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s controversial overhaul of the CDC’s vaccine advisory committee. Offit debunks misinformation surrounding new committee members and stresses how these changes could impact public health. He also highlights the rising vaccine skepticism fueled by political narratives, showing the urgent need for trustworthy communication and transparency in science amidst ongoing health crises.