The Dishcast with Andrew Sullivan

Edward Luce, US national editor and columnist at the Financial Times, shares insights from his distinguished career. He discusses the allure of British boarding schools and their cultural impact, as well as the evolution of education as a tool of soft power. Luce critiques the U.S. response to global dynamics, touching on energy independence amid the Ukraine conflict and the U.S.-China relationship. He highlights the dangers of growing isolationism and the need for America to reevaluate its role on the world stage.

Walter Isaacson, the Leonard Lauder Professor of American History at Tulane and former Time magazine editor, delves into Benjamin Franklin's multifaceted legacy. They discuss Franklin's fierce opposition to arbitrary power and his rift with his loyalist son, William. Isaacson shares insights about Franklin's rise from an indentured printer to a key figure in American history. He also reflects on the resilience shaped by New Orleans' culture and the vital role of humility and virtue in democracy, drawing parallels between science and democratic principles.

Paul Elie, a writer and senior fellow at Georgetown, dives into the fascinating intersection of religion and pop culture. He discusses Martin Scorsese’s complex portrayal of Jesus and the backlash surrounding 'The Last Temptation of Christ.' Elie reflects on Leonard Cohen's spiritual evolution and how his music, especially 'Hallelujah,' resonates with themes of faith. He also examines Bono and U2's shift towards a nuanced spirituality and explores cultural icons like Madonna, showcasing how they navigate sexuality and faith in their artistry.

Batya Ungar-Sargon, a journalist and author known for her insights on media and democracy, dives into hot-button issues surrounding Trump and his policies. She discusses her Orthodox upbringing and how it informs her views on morality and education. Batya critiques the rise of political correctness and the complexities of tariffs, reflecting on how socioeconomic factors influence public opinion. She also shares her evolving perspective on Trump and the implications of neoliberalism, highlighting a fascinating dialogue on class warfare and media's role in politics.

Chris Matthews, a renowned TV broadcaster and author who once served as a speechwriter for Jimmy Carter, discusses his dynamic journey through politics and media. He reflects on his Catholic upbringing in Philadelphia and its impact on his worldview. Matthews shares engaging stories from his time working in the Peace Corps and on Capitol Hill, revealing the ebbs and flows of political life. He also critiques key figures like Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton, touching on their legacies and the shift in voting patterns in his hometown.

Robert Merry, a seasoned journalist and historian, covers the life of President McKinley, offering a fresh lens on his pivotal role in shaping America. They discuss McKinley’s less recognized virtues compared to modern conservatism, his 'front-porch strategy' to win elections, and his leadership during the Spanish-American War. Merry also reflects on the influence of his conservative upbringing and explores the historical significance of tariffs and McKinley’s pragmatic governance in a time of political upheaval.

Jake Tapper, CNN's lead DC anchor, and Alex Thompson, Axios' national political correspondent, dive deep into the tumultuous world of the Biden family. They discuss Joe Biden's apparent cognitive decline and the dynamic between him and Hunter, marked by addiction and secrecy. The conversation touches on the cover-up of Biden's struggles, his political decisions influenced by personal crises, and the loyalty issues among his aides. They also explore how these family dynamics could impact Biden's re-election campaign and the media's role in shaping public perception.

In this enlightening discussion, Sam Tanenhaus, a biographer and historian renowned for his work on conservative thought, delves into the life of Bill Buckley. Tanenhaus uncovers how Buckley’s elite yet turbulent upbringing shaped his views and political ideologies. They explore Buckley's isolationism even post-Pearly Harbor, his conflict with Gore Vidal, and the striking parallels between Buckleyism and modern Trumpism. With captivating anecdotes about Buckley’s personality, education, and family dynamics, this conversation offers rich insights into American conservatism.

David Graham, a political journalist at The Atlantic and author of 'The Project: How Project 2025 Is Reshaping America', discusses the deep roots and implications of Project 2025. He delves into the rise of executive power and how it shapes contemporary governance. Amidst the political turmoil, Graham critiques the impacts of Christian nationalism and faith-based policies on civil rights. He also examines Trump's legal challenges and their polarizing effects on American politics, raising important questions about the future of governance and accountability.

Claire Lehmann, a journalist and the founder of Quillette, shares her journey from a modest upbringing in Adelaide to becoming a significant voice in media. She delves into the challenges of postmodernism in literature and her transition from academia to forensic psychology. Lehmann discusses her advocacy for marriage equality and the unexpected backlash from the left. She also reflects on the complexities of identity politics and societal changes, all while emphasizing the importance of fostering diverse perspectives in contemporary discourse.