The Gist

Arlie Hochschild, Professor Emerita at UC Berkeley and author, dives into the emotional landscape of Trump America. She examines how emotions like pride influence voting behavior and connects political identities to feelings of shame and belonging. Hochschild discusses the pride paradox, contrasting experiences in red and blue states, and highlights the importance of empathy in bridging political divides. Through personal anecdotes and academic insights, she reveals the role of emotional labor in shaping our interactions and understanding in a polarized society.

Stuart Eizenstat, a veteran diplomat and policy advisor, dives into his book, shedding light on the art of negotiation from historic agreements to Holocaust reparations. He introduces the concept of 'unsympathetic empathy' and discusses its role in diplomacy. Eizenstat contrasts the courage of leaders like Anwar Sadat against the refusal of others to compromise, while also examining the significant implications of recent Supreme Court decisions, particularly regarding the Sackler family and their responsibility in the opioid crisis.

Helen Lewis, an acclaimed author and host of BBC's The New Gurus, digs deep into her book, The Genius Myth. She critiques society's distorted ideals of genius, confronting how figures like Picasso shaped the narrative through personal biases and social myths. Lewis explores the links between childhood trauma and achievement, the flaws of individualism in innovation, and the implications of the Matthew Effect in recognizing talent. With each tale, she dismantles old beliefs and invites a fresh perspective on what true genius really means.

Zachary Karabell, the head of The Progress Network and host of the What Could Go Right podcast, brings his insights into 'edgy optimism.' He discusses how small victories in areas like universal childcare in New Mexico and advancements in gene therapies are often overlooked. Karabell argues that it’s not about the lack of progress but rather our failure to notice it. Additionally, he critiques a provocative ad from Netanyahu while reflecting on the contrast between a lackluster military parade and vibrant protests for democracy.

Kat Rosenfield, a writer for the Free Press and co-host of the Feminine Chaos podcast, dives deep into the complexities of the Me Too movement. She explores the interplay between justice and emotional satisfaction, while critically assessing high-profile cases like Harvey Weinstein's. The conversation doesn't shy away from the nuances of societal perceptions regarding consent and women’s agency. It balances heavier themes with lighter moments, including humorous anecdotes about hairless cats and the quirks of pet allergies.

Sadie Dingfelder, an author and journalist known for her insightful takes on science, joins the conversation to tackle the fascinating notion of talking to plants. She explores the quirky science behind how sound can influence plant growth, including surprising studies on strawberries and evening primrose. The lively discussion also touches on political undercurrents, humorously comparing New York's electoral landscape to the peculiar world of phyloacoustics. With a blend of skepticism and charm, Sadie sheds light on whether our whispers truly benefit our leafy friends.

Join economist Allison Schraeger, a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, and Matt Yglesias, the voice behind Slow Boring, for a fascinating discussion on the current unrest in Los Angeles and how to protest without empowering Trump. They tackle the NYC mayoral chaos and debate government-run grocery stores. Lightening the mood, they share quirky summer experiences and frustrations with wireless earbuds. Their insights blend humor and sharp economic perspectives, making this an engaging listen for anyone interested in politics and urban life.

Journalist Jonah Bromwich, known for his insights into high-profile trials, shares his take on the only Trump trial to reach a verdict. He discusses how Alvin Bragg used a little-known election law to revive a fraught case. Bromwich reveals how Trump's narrative skills outshone the prosecution’s storytelling in the public sphere. The conversation also touches on the challenges prosecutors face balancing legal ethics with electoral pressures, while considering the fallout from a new Harvey Weinstein verdict.

Matt Hongoltz-Hetling, author of 'The Ghost Lab' and 'A Libertarian Walks Into a Bear', dives into New Hampshire's quirky paranormal scene. He shares insights on a ghost-hunting team featuring a psychic medium and a Bigfoot believer, exploring how these eccentric interests illuminate deeper societal issues. The discussion takes a humorous turn, highlighting America’s diminishing trust in institutions, with more belief in the supernatural than democracy itself. The conversation also touches on how local unrest ties into broader themes of governance and community.

Jay Inslee, former Washington Governor, advocates for reframing climate change discussions to emphasize jobs, savings, and health, rather than doom and gloom. He highlights the surprising support for emissions policies even in conservative areas. Inslee critiques national polls that downplay climate priorities and engages with skeptics around the green agenda's appeal to voters. The conversation also addresses the significance of state-level initiatives in combating climate challenges and the need for improved political messaging to connect with diverse audiences.