The Gist

Christopher Giancarlo, the former CFTC chair and dubbed "CryptoDad," dives into the need for a U.S. crypto reserve akin to gold. He recalls a memorable summit that highlighted the significance of digital assets and proposes reviving letters of marque to target today's digital pirates. The conversation also touches on the alarming rise in D.C. homicide rates, contrasting this reality with the city's perceived safety. Giancarlo’s insights on cryptocurrency security and regulation add a thought-provoking layer to the discussion.

Harry Siegel, Editor of The City and host of FAQ NYC, dives into the turbulent New York City mayoral race. He highlights Zohran Mamdani's rise amidst potential liabilities like old tweets and promises of city-run grocery stores. Siegel raises concerns about how federal pressure could impact candidates. Additionally, he explores the long-term implications of Trump's economic strategies and how they might influence New York's local dynamics. The conversation is insightful, reflecting on the complexities of urban democracy and governance.

Katja Hoyer is a German-British historian and journalist, known for her work on East Germany. In this discussion, she tackles the surprising rise of Germany's far-right AFD party and examines why calling them 'Nazis' no longer deters voters. Hoyer explains the societal frustrations fueling this shift, touching on economic concerns and immigration. She also delves into the broader implications of political labels and how Germany's energy policies contribute to extremism, highlighting the complex landscape of modern German politics.

Dive into a critical examination of the CDC shooting and how public health misinformation may have influenced the tragedy. Discover the humorous critiques surrounding flawed crime statistics in D.C., revealing the absurdity behind local officials' claims. Explore the vital role of accurate reporting, highlighting the pitfalls of misinterpretation in the media. Plus, hear about Project 2025 and its bold moves in reshaping energy regulation. This discussion is packed with insights that question everything from media ethics to gun culture.

Sophia Rosenfeld, a historian at the University of Pennsylvania and author of *The Age of Choice*, dives deep into the evolution of freedom and choice in modern society. She compares the historical significance of secret ballots to today’s consumer overload. The discussion also critiques the pro-choice movement's framing regarding abortion and examines its implications for feminist strategies. Additionally, she tackles the challenges of academic freedom versus safety in education, highlighting the risks educators face in today’s politically charged environment.

Aziz Huq, a Professor of Law at the University of Chicago and author of The Collapse of Constitutional Remedies, dives into the complex dynamics of law and policing. He discusses how liability insurers influence police practices in small towns and why public trust is crucial in rights conflicts, like same-sex marriage and police brutality. Huq also critiques a Supreme Court ruling on homelessness, highlighting moral dilemmas in legal judgments. To lighten the mood, he reflects on the quirky Kennedy Center Honors and its celebrity inductees.

Aziz Huq, a University of Chicago law professor and author, dives into the erosion of constitutional remedies in the U.S. He discusses how federal courts have limited individuals’ rights, particularly in cases of police violence, while corporations thrive under more favorable legal conditions. Huq highlights the importance of effective enforcement mechanisms and the moral dilemmas of compensating victims of police misconduct. The conversation also critiques media narratives surrounding homelessness and crime, shedding light on the complexities often overlooked in public discourse.

Samuel Parker, a British journalist and author of *Good Anger*, discusses the untapped potential of anger in our lives. He argues that suppressing this emotion fuels anxiety, while societal norms have dulled its significance. Parker shares insights on how embracing anger can lead to mental wellness and meaningful action. He critiques current workplace dynamics, emphasizing the need for open communication. The conversation also touches on misinformation's impact on public health perceptions, advocating for individual accountability in addressing such issues.

Rebecca Lemov, a Harvard historian of science and author of 'The Instability of Truth', takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the history of mind control. She discusses the unsettling legacy of Cold War brainwashing practices, including MKUltra, and reveals how social media manipulates beliefs today. Lemov also explores our inherent suggestibility and how 'cultish' behavior seeps into modern life, from crypto enthusiasts to trendy products. It's a thought-provoking look at the fragility of truth in a persuasive world.

Playwright Sarah Ruhl, known for acclaimed works like Eurydice, shares wisdom gathered from influential mentors in her book Lessons from My Teachers. She discusses the art of learning, revealing the essential balance between control and letting go in creativity. Sarah reflects on writing about grief, even through a dog's perspective, and emphasizes the importance of thanking educators. With humor and personal anecdotes, she dives into the impact of mentorship and the spontaneous lessons that shape artistic journeys.