On the Media

Gabriel Sherman, screenwriter and executive producer of "The Apprentice," dives into the tumultuous relationship between Donald Trump and his mentor, Roy Cohn. The conversation reveals how Cohn’s ruthless tactics shaped Trump’s political strategies and worldview. Sherman highlights the challenges faced in bringing the film to theaters, including financing woes and legal threats from Trump’s team. The portrayal of these controversial figures raises questions about morality and the pursuit of power, reflecting on the film's broader societal implications.

Josh Levin, host of Slate's Slow Burn, dives into the surprising rise of Fox News during the chaotic 2000 presidential election. He reveals how the network transformed from a struggling launch to a major political player, discussing the impact of George W. Bush’s DUI news and the network's controversial election call that declared him the winner in Florida. Levin also addresses the ethical dilemmas posed by family ties in media narratives, and the broader implications of such influence on journalistic integrity and public perception.

Will Oremus, a technology reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the chaos following Hurricane Helene. He highlights the rampant misinformation on social media about FEMA's disaster relief efforts, leading to confusion among storm victims. Oremus also discusses the alarming rise of anti-Semitic conspiracy theories that emerged in the wake of the hurricane. He underscores the human cost of such disinformation, particularly in Pensacola, as local officials work tirelessly to combat false narratives and maintain community trust during crises.

Nada Homsi, a correspondent in Beirut, reveals the harsh realities of reporting during the ongoing Israeli invasion, shedding light on media challenges in Lebanon. Raviv Drucker discusses his work on 'The Bibi Files,' highlighting damning footage that exposes Prime Minister Netanyahu's corruption. Kelly Jensen addresses a concerning shift in book censorship towards government-led actions. Meanwhile, authors Peter Parnell and Justin Richardson share their fight against book bans affecting their children's book, 'And Tango Makes Three,' illustrating the ongoing battle for access to diverse literature.

Acclaimed actress Edie Falco, versatile actor John Turturro, and award-winning performer Tony Shalhoub share a sneak peek of their new radio play, inspired by Sinclair Lewis' dystopian vision. The plot revolves around the Weeks family during a politically charged election, showcasing the tension between freedom and societal norms. They explore themes of familial chaos, the impact of differing political opinions, and the unsettling prospect of fascism creeping into everyday life, all while maintaining a mix of dark humor and poignant reflection.

Sam Gringlas, a politics reporter at WABE, shares insights on Georgia's controversial new election rules, including legal challenges surrounding hand-counting ballots. Ari Berman, voting rights correspondent at Mother Jones, highlights the wave of voter suppression efforts across the U.S. and discusses the risk of a tie in the Electoral College. Meanwhile, Benjamin Mullin, a media reporter for The New York Times, analyzes how newsrooms are preparing for misinformation on election night, emphasizing the need for accurate reporting amidst rising tensions.

The launch of Fox News in 1996 was met with skepticism, but it soon changed the game during the chaotic 2000 presidential election. Its early call for Bush in Florida sparked controversy and raised questions about media ethics. Key figures like John Prescott Ellis navigated turbulent times, balancing political ties with journalistic integrity. The podcast delves into Fox's rise, the internal struggles it faced, and the lasting impact it has had on how news is consumed and perceived in America.

Macollvie Neel, special projects editor at The Haitian Times, discusses the alarming effects of misinformation on the Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio, sparking fears and threats. Lilliana Mason, a political science professor, sheds light on the normalization of political violence in America. Historian Matthew Dallek provides insights into the historical context of political violence and its repercussions. Joshua Kaplan, a ProPublica reporter, reveals how militias have exploited the January 6th insurrection as a recruitment tool, raising concerns about future political stability.

Mark Clague, a musicology professor at the University of Michigan, discusses the dynamic link between music and politics. He highlights Taylor Swift's impactful endorsement during a pivotal debate and notes how pop stars like Billie Eilish are influencing voter engagement. Clague traces the historical role of political anthems and the emotional connections they create. He also addresses the complex relationship between music and political identity, including the challenges artists face with unauthorized song usage in campaigns.

Courtney Kennedy, Vice President of Methods and Innovation at the Pew Research Center, shares her insights on the evolution of election polling and its reliability in today's political climate. The discussion critiques Kamala Harris's media strategy, questioning whether her limited interaction with the press could hinder voters' understanding. Kennedy highlights the importance of cautious poll interpretation, especially after past election failures, urging a reevaluation of how polling data should be analyzed and understood in the lead-up to the next election.