The Gist

The power of tariffs and economic leverage takes center stage as experts discuss their impact on U.S. politics. Insights on the Biden administration's handling of aid to Ukraine reveal a clash of military versus financial support. Mark Cuban emphasizes that Democrats need execution over flashy slogans to resonate with voters. There's a deep dive into the core values of the Democratic Party and the importance of aligning these with voter interests. Finally, the need for compassion and effective governance in addressing unemployment is highlighted as a way to rebuild trust.

Edward Fishman, an expert on sanctions and tariffs, shares insights from his book, "Chokepoints: American Power in the Age of Economic Warfare." He discusses the geopolitical impact of trade vulnerabilities and the transition from military force to economic sanctions in U.S. foreign policy. Fishman highlights the complexities and unintended consequences of these sanctions, particularly regarding Russia and Iran. Additionally, the host examines the intense dynamics at recent Republican town halls, questioning whether media representations capture the true essence of public sentiment.

Will Saletan, a writer for The Bulwark and expert on Trump's presidency, joins to explore whether Trump is truly delusional or merely playing politics. They discuss Trump's impact on U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Ukraine and NATO. Saletan examines Trump's tribal politics, where misguided beliefs clash with reality. The conversation also navigates significant constitutional concerns, emphasizing the importance of collective resistance against Trump's potential executive overreach.

Psychology professor Kurt Gray, a leading expert from the University of North Carolina and author of "Outraged," delves into how our evolutionary history as prey has influenced today's moral and political debates. He discusses the dynamics of victimhood, especially how groups perceive threats and the narratives shaped by media. The conversation also touches on the complex interplay of oppressor and oppressed identities, emphasizing empathy in understanding societal conflicts, including contentious situations like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Dive into the fascinating world of rare earth minerals and their geopolitical importance, especially in relation to Ukraine. Explore how these resources influence global power dynamics and national interests. Plus, a reflective look at Mitch McConnell and the intricate dance of political trials. From impeachment proceedings to wellness products, the conversation spans the impact of branding in geopolitics, using a musical metaphor to highlight ethical complexities and public perceptions.

Jennifer Rogers, a former Assistant U.S. Attorney and law professor, sheds light on the controversial suspension of criminal charges against NYC Mayor Eric Adams. She discusses the implications for the justice system in a politically charged climate. The conversation also touches on the evolving definitions of bribery and the complexities of juries amid media scrutiny. Additionally, they explore the ongoing legal challenges faced by Donald Trump, spotlighting both victories and losses in court.

In this engaging discussion, Dan Savage, a provocative sex advice columnist and podcast host, partners with Noam Dworman, owner of the iconic Comedy Cellar and a keen political commentator. They tackle the non-prosecution of NYC Mayor Eric Adams, debating political accountability. The conversation veers into unique topics like 'goat grinders' linked to Adrien Grenier, the dynamics of mirror pronouns, and the fading trust in media credibility. They even manage to mix in a humorous take on dental dams, blending serious discussion with lighthearted banter.

Marc J. Dunkelman, author of "Why Nothing Works: Who Killed Progress—and How to Bring It Back," discusses the institutional failures plaguing modern society. He contrasts historical visions of progress from Hamilton and Jefferson, critiquing current government inefficacy, especially under the Biden administration. Dunkelman emphasizes the need for self-reflection within progressivism to restore public trust. The conversation also delves into Ukraine's rare earth minerals and the geopolitical implications, revealing the complexities behind resource agreements.

Eli Lake, a veteran journalist and host of the Breaking History podcast, dives into the narratives that shape our current events. He discusses the rising murder rates in Minneapolis and connects them to the historical trauma from George Floyd's death. The conversation also unpacks the complexities of populism across the political spectrum, revealing the dangers of vague rhetoric. Additionally, Eli sheds light on the Zebra killers, drawing comparisons with the Zodiac case and analyzing how historical contexts influence modern political movements.

Vic Michaelis, a talented comedian and actress known for her work in "Very Important People," shares her insights into the world of improv. She discusses the thrill of dramatic character transformations and the collaborative dynamics with VFX artists. Vic humorously explores superstitions, like knocking on wood, and shares quirky personal anecdotes. The conversation also ventures into the creative origins of unique comic book characters and the impact of cultural influences on her comedic style, all while embracing the spontaneity of performance.