Raphael S. Cohen, Director of the Strategy and Doctrine Program at RAND and an expert on the Middle East, sheds light on pressing geopolitical issues. He discusses Israel’s impressive battlefield tactics and the shifting power balance with Iran. The conversation touches on Iran's strategic vulnerabilities, particularly amidst a backdrop of reduced Hezbollah support. Cohen also dives into the implications of recent NIH funding cuts for vital research, contrasting this with the whimsical debate surrounding the potential end of the penny.

Maya Wiley, a civil rights expert and former counsel to NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio, dives into the evolution of police accountability in the wake of George Floyd's death. She discusses the challenges and significance of the NYC Civilian Complaint Review Board, emphasizing the need for transparency and community engagement in reform efforts. The conversation also touches on the contentious debate around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies, highlighting how political dynamics shape societal attitudes and accountability in law enforcement.

Casey Burgat, a political science professor and author of "We Hold These Truths," dives into the complexities of political messaging and the myths that shape public perception. He critiques President Trump's simplistic rhetoric regarding Gaza, revealing its superficial promises. The discussion also tackles the controversy over plastic straws, questioning how environmental narratives can be misleading. Additionally, Casey sheds light on the power dynamics of presidential authority and the role money plays in shaping political representation.

Katie Herzog, co-host of Blocked and Reported and author of the upcoming book Drinking Your Way Sober, joins Jonah Goldberg to dissect the implications of Trump's blame on DEI after a military crash. They delve into the Democrats' identity politics struggle, questioning their connection with voters. The duo tackles the challenges of urban planning in D.C. and critiques the ongoing gap between political messaging and public concerns, all while maintaining a humorous yet insightful tone.

Sadie Dingfelder, author of "Do I Know You?" and an expert in sight, memory, and imagination, dives deep into the debate over trigger warnings. She questions their effectiveness and necessity, offering insights on their origins and their contentious use in environments like colleges and therapy. The discussion touches on the cultural implications and challenges in balancing sensitivity with practicality. Additionally, they explore the evolving landscape of fact-checking and its declining effectiveness in journalism, highlighting recent industry changes.

Retired Air Force General Jay Santee, known for his critical role in a high-stakes mission to neutralize Syria's chemical weapons, shares fascinating insights on military operations. He contrasts the complexities of chemically hazardous missions with Israel's more direct tactics. Additionally, he dives into the stark differences in legal repercussions faced by January 6th rioters versus Black Lives Matter protesters, shedding light on the complexities of justice and public perception surrounding these events.

Retired Major General Jay Santee, who led the operation to neutralize Syria’s chemical weapons, shares gripping insights into the complex process of dismantling these dangerous stockpiles at sea. He discusses the technical and diplomatic challenges, revealing the high-stakes environment involving international cooperation and geopolitical tensions. The conversation then shifts to Trump's contentious stance on Canada regarding fentanyl and trade, and how political narratives have weaponized legitimate critiques of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs.

Josh Barro, a former New York Magazine writer and economics expert, joins Megan McArdle, a Washington Post columnist, and Ben Dreyfuss, a political commentator, for a lively discussion. They analyze the shifting political landscape since Trump’s inauguration, reflecting on early activist fervor and disillusionment. The trio also dives into the complexities of political pardons post-January 6th and the growing normalization of political violence. Humor meets insight as they tackle U.S. energy policies and examine Gen Z's unique ideological landscape, revealing surprising perspectives on free speech and misinformation.

Miriam Lewin, an Argentine journalist and political activist who survived the horrors of torture during Argentina’s Dirty War, shares her powerful story. She highlights the emotional trauma and resilience of activists facing brutal repression. Lewin discusses the fight of the Mothers of Plaza de Mayo, who bravely sought their disappeared children, and the tragic betrayal they faced. Additionally, the conversation touches on unique political topics like tariffs and the societal implications of baby formula theft, sparking deep reflections on justice and morality.

Michael Moynihan, host of The Fifth Column podcast and a Swedish journalist, joins the discussion to explore Europe's immigration crisis. He highlights how right-wing parties are tapping into public concerns that traditional moderates overlook. The conversation also touches on the rise of populism in Europe, the complex landscape of nationalism and integration, and how these issues fuel far-right sentiments in countries like Sweden and Germany. Additionally, they unpack recent political controversies, including critiques of diversity policies amid significant events.