On the Media

Oliver Darcy, a former CNN media reporter and author of the newsletter Status, discusses how major media outlets are adjusting their coverage of Trump's chaotic return to the Oval Office. He highlights the decline in aggressive journalism and the chilling effects on press freedom. Chris Lehmann, D.C. Bureau Chief for The Nation, draws parallels between Trump and his idol, President McKinley, exploring their shared economic policies and the populist rhetoric that masks elite interests. Together, they dissect how history informs our understanding of today's political landscape.

Elyse Graham, historian and professor at Stony Brook University, discusses her book 'Book and Dagger', revealing the surprising role of scholars and librarians as spies during World War II. She highlights their integral contributions to wartime narratives, likening information battles to physical fights. The conversation dives into the OSS's unconventional recruitment, the essential role of cartographers, and how ‘whispering’ propaganda shaped perceptions. Graham underscores storytelling's power in both history and politics, making for a captivating exploration of espionage.

In this discussion, legal expert David Cole dives into the Supreme Court's ruling on TikTok, debating free speech versus national security. He raises concerns about media implications and user migrations to alternative platforms. Meanwhile, author Rebecca Solnit reflects on the L.A. wildfires, revealing how disasters shape community responses and challenge misinformation. Their insights explore the intersection of technology, culture, and collective memory in the face of societal challenges.

The podcast dives into the tumultuous relationship between the White House and the press, especially through the lens of the Trump administration. It explores the evolution of media access, highlighting the vital role women played in pushing for transparency. Historical contrasts between different presidents reveal changing strategies in media engagement. The show also discusses the origins of the White House briefing room and raises questions about potential future shifts in access for media outlets friendly to Trump.

Mike Gonzalez, a senior fellow at The Heritage Foundation and critic of public broadcasting funding, dives into the ongoing threats to NPR and PBS. He discusses historical struggles and political tensions surrounding the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. The conversation highlights the essential role of public radio in times of crisis, showcasing how these stations keep local governments accountable and provide lifesaving information. Gonzalez also addresses the complex debate over CPB funding, considering public support despite claims of bias.

Dan Barry, a senior writer for The New York Times, dives into how Trump and his allies have reshaped the narrative surrounding the January 6 Capitol riots. He discusses the alarming shift in public perception, where support for rioters has grown. The conversation also delves into Trump’s campaign tactics, notably his controversial tribute to January 6 prisoners. Barry highlights the psychological factors that lead supporters to embrace misleading narratives, alongside the complex implications of misinformation and proposed pardons for participants.

In a compelling discussion, historian Daniel Immerwahr delves into America’s hidden history of imperialism, exposing how it intertwined with ideals of democracy and freedom. He shares how guano, a seemingly unremarkable resource, fueled America's overseas ambitions. Immerwahr also highlights the complex debates about American identity in light of territorial expansion, and he explores the often-overlooked realities of labor exploitation during the 19th century. The conversation sheds light on the lasting impacts of this imperial past on contemporary issues of citizenship and identity.

Latif Nasser, co-host of Radiolab, engages with former Senator Gary Hart about the seismic shift caused by his 1987 sex scandal. They dive into how this incident reshaped political journalism and public perception of candidates. The conversation highlights the evolving standards of media scrutiny and ethical dilemmas reporters face covering personal scandals. With Donald Trump's possible return to office, they question whether such scandals still hold weight in today's political climate, reflecting on the changing dynamics of accountability in public life.

In this discussion, Ann Powers, an NPR Music critic, reflects on the fate of Pitchfork and the importance of diverse voices in music journalism. Kyle Chayka, a New Yorker staff writer, critiques how algorithms shape music discovery, often sacrificing quality for quantity. Mark Henry Phillips, a composer, reveals how AI music generators challenge traditional music creation, raising ethical concerns about artists' futures. Together, they explore the intersection of technology and creativity, questioning the future of musical authenticity.

Raviv Drucker, an Israeli journalist and political analyst, guides listeners through the gripping documentary The Bibi Files. He unveils the intertwining of Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption cases with the region's conflicts. Drucker discusses the shocking leaked footage showcasing Netanyahu's inner circle and the political fallout of these scandals. He also highlights the influence of Hollywood connections on Israeli politics and examines Netanyahu's media manipulation tactics, emphasizing the broader implications for democracy in Israel.