Galaxy Brain
The Atlantic
The internet has warped public life: Politicians behave like influencers, the economy resembles a casino, and people can no longer agree upon a consensus reality. New conspiracy theories, memes, and main characters seem to pop up every day. A constant war is on for your attention, and it’s easy to feel lost. Each week, Galaxy Brain and its host Charlie Warzel invite you into conversations to make sense of the online fire hose. Is AI destroying our ability to think? Do your grandparents have a screen-time problem? Galaxy Brain looks beyond the algorithm and anchors you to the real—however strange it may be.
Episodes
Mentioned books
13 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 40min
The Internet Was Built to Objectify Women
Sophie Gilbert, a culture writer and author of "Girl on Girl," dives deep into the pervasive misogyny online, discussing how tech has historically exploited women. She highlights the troubling rise of AI-generated sexual abuse, particularly through Elon Musk’s Grok, and connects this to broader cultural patterns of backlash against women's progress. Gilbert emphasizes the urgency for lawmakers to address these abuses and argues that the normalization of nonconsensual imagery reflects a societal red line that must not be crossed.
39 snips
Jan 9, 2026 • 1h 16min
Grok’s "Digital Undressing" Crisis and a Manifesto to Build a Better Internet
In this insightful discussion, technologist Alex Komoroske, tech policy expert Mike Masnick, and product leader Zoe Weinberg delve into the troubling surge of nonconsensual imagery on X. They explore the Resonant Computing Manifesto, advocating for technology that nourishes rather than exploits. Topics include the dangers of engagement-driven design, the importance of user agency, and the need for pro-social technology. The trio emphasizes a hopeful vision for the future, highlighting principles that empower users and foster respectful digital environments.
68 snips
Jan 2, 2026 • 1h 4min
The New Mainstream Media
David Frum, a staff writer at The Atlantic and host of The David Frum Show, joins Charlie Warzel to discuss modern media challenges. They explore the tensions between sensationalism and journalistic integrity, particularly how algorithms push creators toward extreme content. Frum highlights the shift of conspiracy theorists into the mainstream and the emotional roots behind why people engage with implausible theories. Together, they advocate for responsible journalism that emphasizes truth while navigating today's digital landscape.
6 snips
Dec 26, 2025 • 58min
Are Your Parents Addicted to Their Screens?
Ipsit Vahia, Chief of Geriatric Psychiatry at Mass General Brigham's McLean Hospital, discusses the nuanced relationship between older adults and technology. He highlights that their tech use is diverse, often purposeful, and beneficial for staying connected. Vahia warns against overgeneralizing screen time impacts, emphasizing individual context. The conversation covers the potential risks of scams and misinformation while celebrating the advantages of mobility and social apps. He offers practical tips for fostering connections with older loved ones through respectful discussions about technology.
17 snips
Dec 20, 2025 • 1h 13min
Bonus Episode: Reacting to the Epstein Files’ Release
Isaac Stanley-Becker, a national security writer, and Adrienne LaFrance, executive editor at The Atlantic, dive into the recently released Epstein files. They discuss the political ramifications of the heavily redacted documents, the disturbing insights into abuse, and the societal tolerance of powerful men. The duo reflects on how document dumps ignite conspiracy theories and explore the implications for public trust and political fallout. Their discussion highlights how initial reactions reveal deeper societal fatigue with scandal, leaving questions about accountability.
32 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 54min
Prediction Markets and the ‘Suckerifcation’ Crisis With Max Read
Max Read, a writer focused on culture and power on the internet, dives into the intriguing world of prediction markets. He highlights their evolution from niche bets to mainstream platforms, driven by a mix of gambling and finance. The conversation tackles whether these markets genuinely portray collective wisdom or simply reflect trader biases. Read also discusses the challenges surrounding young men's exploitation in this ‘suckerification’ economy and the addictive nature of these markets in a quest for excitement.
69 snips
Dec 12, 2025 • 1h 4min
How YouTube Ate Podcasts and TV, With Rachel Martin, Ashley Carman, and Derek Thompson
Rachel Martin, an NPR host known for her celebrity interviews, delves into how video transforms trust and connection in interviews. Ashley Carman, a Bloomberg reporter, outlines the podcasting industry's evolution, from the boom of Serial to the rise of YouTube as a powerhouse. Derek Thompson, a media analyst, shares his theory that everything has become television, reshaping our attention and social dynamics. Together, they explore the implications of video-first media on our society, urging listeners to consider the cultural shifts at play.
37 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 1h 1min
When Chatbots Break Our Minds, With Kashmir Hill
Kashmir Hill, a technology reporter from The New York Times, explores the dark side of our relationships with chatbots. She discusses alarming cases where users experienced delusions and personal crises, including the tragic story of a teen's suicide linked to chatbot interactions. Hill investigates how AI, designed to be engaging, can lead to dangerous dependencies and distorted realities. The conversation also touches on the ethical responsibilities of companies like OpenAI and the challenges of ensuring safety in these digital companions.
46 snips
Nov 28, 2025 • 59min
America’s Slide Toward Simulated Democracy With Eliot Higgins
Charlie Warzel speaks with Eliot Higgins, founder of Bellingcat and an expert in open-source investigations. They discuss how disordered discourse threatens democracy, with algorithms fostering outrage and fractured realities. Higgins shares his journey from online forums to Bellingcat, emphasizing the importance of verification, deliberation, and accountability in democratic processes. He warns about the US's drift toward a simulated democracy, while advocating for grassroots actions, media literacy, and community engagement to restore shared reality and empower informed discourse.
49 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 51min
Are Sports the Most Valuable Commodity in the World? With Pablo Torre
Pablo Torre, a seasoned sports journalist and host of "Pablo Torre Finds Out," joins to explore the intersection of sports, culture, and gambling. He discusses how sports create communal experiences while also being a vessel for political messages. The conversation dives into issues like the impact of legalized betting on audience engagement and the ethical dilemmas surrounding it. Pablo also examines how team ownership reshapes billionaire images and critiques the short-term thinking prevalent in today's sports economy.
