Honestly with Bari Weiss

In this lively conversation, Caitlin Flanagan, a writer for The Atlantic known for her keen insights, explores the pitfalls of modern advice culture. She critiques bad advice, particularly in personal relationships, like the one involving a daughter's polyamorous affair. The discussion also addresses the delicate balance of maintaining friendships amidst political differences and parenting dilemmas with humor and candor. Flanagan highlights our desperate need for genuine wisdom while injecting relatable anecdotes and thought-provoking commentary throughout the dialogue.

Batya Ungar-Sargon, a Free Press contributor and author, Peter Savodnik, a senior editor covering the 2024 election, and Joe Nocera, a seasoned political columnist, debate the complex persona of Tim Walz. They explore the surprising rise of Walz as a political figure, juxtaposing his Midwestern charm with claims of radical policies. The conversation meanders through the political identity crisis within the Democratic Party, the implications of vice presidential picks, and the push-pull of voter expectations against party dynamics.

Eli Lake, a reporter for The Free Press known for his insightful analysis of current events, returns to discuss the political implications of Kamala Harris's rise as the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee. He critiques the media’s role in reshaping historical narratives, drawing parallels to authoritarian regimes and the works of Milan Kundera and George Orwell. The conversation delves into the fragility of political trust, the dangers of complicity, and the tumultuous landscape leading up to the election, all while weaving in humor and literary references.

Larry Summers, former Treasury Secretary and prominent economist, dives into the recent tumult in financial markets, explaining the causes behind the dramatic drops and rising recession fears. He discusses the importance of understanding economic policies that have led to this moment and offers insights on market volatility and the Federal Reserve's crucial role. Furthermore, Summers emphasizes the need for informed public discourse on economics, especially as it intersects with political rhetoric and upcoming elections.

In this engaging discussion, Andy Mills, co-host of the Reflector podcast, dives into the hidden truths of alcoholism. He reveals shocking statistics about alcohol-related deaths during the pandemic and the lack of communication between drinkers and healthcare providers. A compelling story features a woman's successful use of naltrexone, challenging traditional recovery methods. The conversation critiques societal norms around alcohol, advocating for innovative treatment approaches like the Sinclair Method, and emphasizes the importance of community support in recovery.

Haviv Rettig Gur, journalist for The Times of Israel, provides a gripping analysis of the escalating tensions in the Middle East. He discusses the dire situation following a Hezbollah rocket attack that tragically killed 12 children, raising fears of an all-out war. Gur explores Israel's strategic dilemmas amid threats from Hezbollah and Iranian proxies, evaluating the impact of U.S. policy and upcoming elections. He also delves into the complexities of the Druze community and the significance of the Abraham Accords in shifting regional alliances.

Kat Rosenfield and River Page bring an entertaining lens to the political landscape, focusing on Kamala Harris's unexpected rise as a Gen Z icon, dubbed 'brat.' They explore how internet culture, memes, and informal political announcements have reshaped public personas, blending humor with serious engagement. The duo examines the evolving dynamics of political communication in the age of social media and the implications for upcoming elections. They also debate the characteristics that define various public figures within this new cultural framework.

Seneca Scott, a labor leader and community organizer, debates urban safety alongside Michael Shellenberger, founder of Public News. They argue that criminal justice reforms have led to increased crime in cities like San Francisco. Kmele Foster, a commentator, and Lara Bazelon, a criminal justice professor, advocate for nuanced approaches to reform. Topics include the impact of decarceration, the relationship between policing and public safety, and the need to address root causes like homelessness and education in creating effective justice strategies.

Dean Phillips, a Minnesota congressman who dared to challenge Joe Biden in the primaries, joins Batya Ungar-Sargon, Deputy opinion editor at Newsweek and author of 'Second Class,' to discuss Biden's shocking withdrawal from the 2024 race. They dive into the power struggles within the Democratic Party, highlighting the influence of elite donors. The conversation also addresses the media's contradictory portrayals of Biden's abilities and the significant role of civic engagement in shaping political landscapes. A captivating exploration of what comes next!

A.K. Kamara, a Black Republican from Minnesota, shares his journey navigating political identities and the backlash he faces from his community. Tomiko Hope, a GOP committee woman from Chicago, discusses economic hardships that drive her support for Trump. They explore the surprising increase in Black voter support for Trump and contrast it with traditional Democratic expectations. The conversation highlights the complexities of political affiliation, urging a deeper understanding between the Republican Party and Black communities.