The Gist

David Enrich, New York Times journalist and author of 'Murder the Truth,' dives into the complexities of defamation law and the impact of journalistic freedom on public figures. He reflects on the intricacies of covering Brett Kavanaugh’s confirmation hearings, emphasizing the balance between accountability and thorough reporting. The discussion also touches on landmark legal cases like New York Times v. Sullivan, revealing the ongoing challenges faced by journalists navigating truth and reputation in today's media landscape.

One consequences of Trump's anti-DEI initiatives is the disbanding of a talented youth orchestra featured on 60 Minutes. The Spiel analyzes the recent U.S. airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, comparing the Trump administration's more aggressive approach to previous military engagements and questioning whether tough talk translates to meaningful strategic differences. And Russell Shorto, author of "Taking Manhattan: The Extraordinary Events That Created New York and Shaped America," explores the fascinating Dutch origins of New York City, and the far-sighted decision to give it up without a fight.Produced by Corey WaraEmail us at thegist@mikepesca.comTo advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/TheGistSubscribe to The Gist: https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/Subscribe to The Gist Youtube Page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4_bh0wHgk2YfpKf4rg40_gSubscribe to The Gist Instagram Page: GIST INSTAGRAM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mike was recently on the Smoke 'Em If You Got 'Em Podcast. Enjoy!Produced by Corey WaraEmail us at thegist@mikepesca.comTo advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/TheGistSubscribe to The Gist: https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/Subscribe to The Gist Youtube Page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4_bh0wHgk2YfpKf4rg40_gSubscribe to The Gist Instagram Page: GIST INSTAGRAMFollow Mikes Substack at: Pesca Profundities | Mike Pesca | Substack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matthew Schrag, the Alzheimer’s whistleblower who uncovered one of the biggest medical deceptions in history, joins the show. Plus, Chuck Schumer takes the hits, absorbs the pain, and spares Democrats from a brutal shutdown battle—sometimes being a punching bag is part of the job.Produced by Corey WaraEmail us at thegist@mikepesca.comTo advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/TheGistSubscribe to The Gist: https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/Subscribe to The Gist Youtube Page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4_bh0wHgk2YfpKf4rg40_gSubscribe to The Gist Instagram Page: GIST INSTAGRAMFollow Mikes Substack at: Pesca Profundities | Mike Pesca | Substack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rodrigo Duterte stands trial in The Hague for his brutal drug war—a prosecution that is justified but also political. Meanwhile, Sadie Dingfelder joins us to play Is That BS? to determine whether yelling “Help” or “Fire” is the smarter move in an emergency. Plus, Part 2 of Nine Bullets, One Knife, Many Wrong Questions—separating fact from fiction in a fatal NYC subway shooting.Produced by Corey WaraEmail us at thegist@mikepesca.comTo advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/TheGistSubscribe to The Gist: https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/Subscribe to The Gist Youtube Page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4_bh0wHgk2YfpKf4rg40_gSubscribe to The Gist Instagram Page: GIST INSTAGRAMFollow Mikes Substack at: Pesca Profundities | Mike Pesca | Substack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Lauren Egan, a writer for The Bulwark and author of the insightful newsletter "The Opposition," dives into the current state of the Democratic Party amidst key challenges. She discusses Senate Democrats' strategic hesitations over fears of political fallout amid critical funding battles. The conversation extends to the party's difficulties in navigating a shifting media landscape, especially as they prepare for elections. Egan also reflects on a recent subway shooting, probing the delicate balance between public safety and media narratives surrounding policing.

The podcast dives into the economic implications of Trump's policies, suggesting he may not escape financial fallout. It analyzes the intersection of political decisions and personal finance, particularly in light of struggling 401ks. An interview with Elle Reeve sheds light on the chaotic Unite the Right rally, revealing the complexities of extremism and unexpected alliances. It also tackles the contentious issues of free speech, anti-Semitism on campuses, and the moral dilemmas surrounding U.S. immigration policy.

Elle Reeve, a CNN journalist known for her investigative work on extremism, shares insights from her book, 'Black Pill.' She discusses the alarming radicalization pipelines that fuel neo-Nazi ideologies, revealing the enticement of marginalized individuals into toxic online communities. Reeve dives into the role of anti-Semitism in today's political landscape and reflects on the real-world impacts of online radicalization, including the intersection with incidents like Charlottesville. Her compelling narrative sheds light on the urgent challenges society faces regarding extremism.

Scottish comedian Daniel Sloss, known for his thought-provoking comedy specials, dives into a variety of topics with sharp wit. He humorously tackles circumcision and critiques the left's tendencies to undermine its own cause. Sloss also shares his insights on the stark differences between the UK and US comedy scenes, pointing out how American comedians often recycle material. His unique perspective on political issues like Brexit adds an intriguing layer to the conversation, blending humor with deeper societal critiques.

The roots of the current conflict in Gaza trace back to the Balfour Declaration and earlier, but also to a series of ethnic killings and counterattacks in the years just before Israel became a state. Oren Kessler joins us to discuss Palestine 1936: The Great Revolt and the Roots of the Middle East Conflict. Plus, Trump’s latest tariff chaos has Canadians resorting to some choice words. And in The Spiel, we examine the status of the most aggressive initiatives of the Trump administration.Produced by Corey WaraEmail us at thegist@mikepesca.comTo advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/TheGistSubscribe to The Gist: https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/Subscribe to The Gist Youtube Page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4_bh0wHgk2YfpKf4rg40_gSubscribe to The Gist Instagram Page: GIST INSTAGRAMFollow Mikes Substack at: Pesca Profundities | Mike Pesca | Substack  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices