Honestly with Bari Weiss

An Israeli mother shares her heartbreaking story after her two children, ages 12 and 16, were taken hostage by Hamas during a violent raid on their kibbutz. She recounts her desperate experience of fear and helplessness, illuminating the personal tragedies faced by countless families like hers. The discussion explores the unprecedented nature of modern conflict, the trauma endured by civilians, and her profound love for her sons amidst the chaos. Her plea underscores the urgent need for awareness and support for innocent lives impacted by war.

Michael Oren is a historian and former Israeli ambassador to the U.S. He sheds light on the shocking Hamas attacks that recently ravaged Israel, drawing parallels to historical tragedies. Oren discusses the complex relationship between Hamas and Iran, revealing how Iranian support fuels conflict. He also explores Israel's strategic challenges and shifting military responses amid growing regional tensions. Personal stories add emotional depth to the discussion, highlighting the urgent need for clarity and resilience in the face of ongoing violence.

James Carville, the legendary Democratic political consultant known for his role in Bill Clinton's 1992 campaign, delves into the shifting landscape of American politics. He asserts that wokeness is on the decline and critiques the media's treatment of figures like Kamala Harris. Carville dissects the 2024 election dynamics, advocating for a new generation of leadership within the Democratic Party. He also explores working-class voters' disconnection from the party, while humorously navigating controversial topics and offering sharp political insights.

Peter Savodnik, a sharp reporter for The Free Press, and Michael Moynihan, who captured the pulse at a Trump rally, dive into the chaos of the GOP landscape. They dissect the second Republican debate, where candidates tackled pressing issues like inflation and crime, while conspicuously absent was Trump, rallying in Detroit. The duo discusses the contrasting strategies and the rising discontent among blue-collar workers, reflecting on how the political scene is shifting amid changing voter expectations.

Frank Foer, Atlantic staff writer and author of The Last Politician, dives deep into the complexities of Biden's presidency. He discusses the rising concerns around Biden's age and competence as 2024 approaches, citing polls showing Democratic unease. Foer, initially a skeptic, shares how his perspective on Biden evolved, highlighting the president's diplomatic strategies and relatable qualities. They also touch on challenges like inflation and the implications of familial dynamics on public perception, revealing the intricate political landscape ahead.

Matti Friedman, an award-winning author and journalist, dives into the transformative experiences of Leonard Cohen during the 1973 Yom Kippur War. He discusses Cohen's unexpected decision to perform for Israeli soldiers, blending artistry with the harsh realities of conflict. The conversation highlights how Cohen's somber lyrics provided solace amid chaos, and explores the complexities of identity in turbulent times. Friedman's insights shed light on the lasting impact of Cohen’s music on both soldiers and the cultural landscape of Israel.

Tyler Cowen, an economist and host of Conversations with Tyler, interviews Amia Srinivasan, a philosopher from Oxford and author of The Right to Sex. They dive into whether we have a 'right' to be desired and discuss how societal norms shape our sexual desires. The conversation gets heated over the sufficiency of consent in relationships and the implications of declining fertility rates. Moreover, they explore the complex intersections of feminism with various ideologies, challenging traditional perceptions around sex, desire, and ethical dilemmas.

Richard Dawkins, the influential evolutionary biologist and author, joins Freddie Sayers, host of UnHerd, for a stimulating conversation. They tackle a range of provocative topics including the skepticism surrounding science, the intersection of science and spirituality, and the implications of cancel culture. Dawkins also shares insights on the evolution of human beliefs and their connection to morality. The discussion dives into contemporary issues like vaccine trust during the COVID-19 pandemic and the intriguing possibility of extraterrestrial life.

Olivia Reingold, a reporter at The Free Press, joins Peter Savodnik, a senior editor, and Batya Ungar-Sargon, opinion editor at Newsweek, to dissect the implications of the first Republican presidential debate. They delve into Vivek Ramaswamy's standout performance amid Trump's absence, contrasting candidates' foreign policy views and discussing how they navigated abortion and economic issues. The group also analyzes Nikki Haley's rising profile and the GOP's shifting ideologies, highlighting the intriguing dynamics shaping the party's future.

Will Hurd, a former Texas congressman and CIA operative, dives into his journey from undercover missions to presidential candidacy. He shares how a traumatic experience in Afghanistan ignited his political ambitions. Hurd discusses the challenges of being a moderate Republican, aiming to unite disillusioned voters and emphasize bipartisanship. He critiques the GOP's current direction and stresses the need for inclusivity to reflect America's diversity. Additionally, he tackles pressing issues like immigration and the importance of civic engagement in a fragile democracy.