The Gist

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.

Ben Dreyfuss, a writer for Calm Down Substack and former editor at Mother Jones, shares his centrist views on today’s political landscape. He discusses the electric atmosphere of Welcome Fest, highlighting the lively debates among political figures. The conversation delves into the complexities of modern protest and its societal perceptions, alongside humorous takes on drink garnishing at social events. Dreyfuss reflects on political misinformation's impact and critiques the entertainment-first approach of major news networks, intertwining personal anecdotes and cultural commentary.

Chris Turner, a comedian, freestyler, and archaeology grad, reveals how he transformed from a middle-class British kid to a captivating improv lyricist. He humorously discusses bombing in polite accents and the quirks of freestyling, comparing it to tennis rather than chess. Chris shares wild stories about drive-by shootings linked to fax machines and evokes laughter with his rhymes on chlamydia and Jerry Springer. His insights delve into cultural perceptions, heckling strategies, and the joy of spontaneous creativity in performance.

Leah Litman, a law professor at the University of Michigan and co-host of Strict Scrutiny, dives into the partisan roots of originalism and its implications on critical court decisions like Roe v. Wade. She creatively connects pop culture to legal critiques, referencing works like The Barbie Movie and Arrested Development to illuminate conservative judicial trends. The conversation also touches on the chaotic NYC mayoral debate and offers a fresh perspective on voter turnout after Shelby County v. Holder, indicating that perceived suppression might actually galvanize marginalized voters.