The Gist

Dan Taberski, host of the podcast Hysterical, dives into a bizarre incident in Leroy, New York, where high school girls exhibit strange tics. He explores the complex interplay of psychological and physical symptoms in mass psychogenic illness. The conversation also touches on how social media impacts mental health, especially among teens. Additionally, Dan discusses the implications of Trump’s comments regarding Kamala Harris, questioning whether his remarks are strategic or impulsive. It's a captivating mix of societal issues, psychological phenomena, and political commentary.

Minouche Shafik, former President of Columbia University, shares insights on academic leadership amidst controversies. Leon Neyfahk and Arielle Paredes dive into the complex world of vaping, discussing Juul's aggressive marketing tactics and their effects on youth. They also highlight the quirky yet meaningful role of mangoes in their discussions. Additionally, there's an exploration of how 'vibes' can shape political campaigns, reflecting the unique dynamics of modern political environments.

Leon Neyfakh and Arielle Pardes, reporters behind 'Backfired: The Vaping Wars,' dive into the chaotic world of vaping culture. They discuss the conflicting narratives surrounding vaping safety and its impact on public health. With personal anecdotes, they reveal how experiences with smoking and family health struggles influenced their perspectives. Additionally, the conversation touches on the industry's marketing tactics and the complex regulation landscape that allows products like Juul to thrive amid growing skepticism.

Kevin Allison, a comedic pioneer from MTV's The State and host of RISK!, reveals the bold risks he's embraced in his creative journey. JD Vance dives into provocative thought experiments on social issues, while Elon Musk tackles the nitty-gritty of environmental impacts with Donald Trump. They explore the societal effects of declining birth rates, political narratives around family values, and reflections on navigating social anxiety within LGBTQ spaces. It’s a riveting blend of humor, insight, and controversial ideas.

Dr. Ann Burgess, a groundbreaking profiler of serial killers and featured in Mindhunter, joins Abigail Fuller, director of Hulu's Mastermind: To Think Like a Killer. They discuss Burgess's revolutionary work in understanding the psychology of violent offenders and the significant role of female investigators in changing investigative practices. The duo also tackles society's obsession with serial killers and the media's influence on public perception. Their insights blend dark psychology with cultural commentary, resulting in a captivating conversation.

Jordan Ellenberg, a mathematics professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, dives into the quirky world of political polling and its unpredictable nature. He explains how historical trends and randomness shape Senate elections while critiquing flawed predictive models. The discussion touches on adapting beliefs with new information in an ever-changing political climate. Plus, enjoy a whimsical tale of bears in NYC and a humorous anecdote involving RFK Jr., blending absurdity with insightful commentary on fate.

Nate Silver, a poker player, author, and renowned forecaster, shares insights from his new book, 'On the Edge: The Art of Risking Everything.' He delves into the contrasting mindsets between traditional elite circles and risk-takers in finance and tech. The discussion also highlights challenges in political dynamics and content strategies, emphasizing the need for nuanced conversations around free speech. Additionally, Silver critiques the lack of diversity in venture capital, revealing the intricate dance of wealth, innovation, and societal perceptions.

Mo Rocca, a celebrated author and journalist known for his witty takes on historical topics, joins the conversation to discuss his new book about the remarkable achievements of older adults. He explores the triumphs and comebacks of 'Roctogenarians,' shedding light on societal attitudes towards aging and celebrating notable figures like Morgan Freeman. The podcast also examines the delicate balance of joy in political leadership and the complex landscape of abortion access, particularly through telehealth services, raising important questions about patient privacy and the evolving healthcare system.

John J. Sullivan, a former Ambassador to Moscow and Acting Secretary of State, shares insights from his memoir, 'Midnight in Moscow.' He discusses the complexities of U.S.-Russia relations during the Trump era, including personal diplomacy with Putin and the legacy of the Cheka on modern politics. The conversation also explores Tim Walz’s presidential candidacy, emphasizing his Midwestern authenticity and ability to connect with diverse voters, particularly through sensitive messaging on abortion. A compelling mix of personal stories and political analysis!

Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota, discusses his recent selection as Kamala Harris' vice presidential running mate, exploring the implications of this choice. Nate Silver shares insights on what Harris missed by not picking Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, delving into the state's critical electoral dynamics. Shad White reveals shocking details from his book on the Mississippi welfare scandal, exposing corruption and the fallout involving prominent figures. Together, they unpack the complexities of political strategy and accountability in today's landscape.