Honestly with Bari Weiss

In a revealing conversation, Liz Cheney, a Wyoming congresswoman and vice chair of the January 6th investigation, discusses the high personal cost of her decisions to oppose Donald Trump. She reflects on her transition from a respected Republican leader to a contentious figure within her party. Cheney offers insight into the political chaos of January 6th, the urgent need for accountability, and the ongoing challenges facing the GOP in the wake of that day. Her perspective sheds light on the broader implications for American democracy and the future of political discourse.

Majdi Wadi, a Palestinian immigrant and CEO of Holy Land, shares his compelling journey from Kuwait to America. He discusses the challenges of building a business while facing public scrutiny and the reality of cancel culture. Wadi reflects on the complex dynamics of cultural identity and community response following protests, emphasizing resilience and the quest for accountability. The conversation delves into the emotional toll of social media backlash and the necessity for open dialogue in today's divisive landscape.

Caitlin Flanagan, a keen writer for The Atlantic, tackles the controversial topic of abortion with honesty and depth. She explores the complex moral landscapes of individual choice and the emotional weight it carries. Flanagan shares personal narratives that highlight the historical struggles women faced before legalization and critiques contemporary societal attitudes towards abortion. The conversation also touches on feminism, identity, and the impact of restrictive laws, encouraging listeners to engage with differing perspectives in this heated debate.

In a revealing conversation, Amy Cooper, the Central Park dog walker embroiled in a viral incident, opens up about the intense backlash she faced, including being doxxed and fleeing the country. Kmele Foster, a co-host of The Fifth Column podcast, engages her in a discussion that dives deep into the media's portrayal of the event and the costs of mob justice. They explore the intersection of race and privilege, and how societal narratives can oversimplify complex individual experiences amid heightened public outrage.

Abigail Shrier, author of "Irreversible Damage," dives into the intense backlash she faced after speaking at Princeton. She discusses the importance of free speech and the dangers of conforming to societal pressures, especially regarding gender identity. Shrier emphasizes the significance of personal autonomy and the challenges of self-expression in today's world. Her call to reclaim individuality in the face of tyranny encourages listeners, particularly young people, to speak their truth and resist external influence.

Kim Kardashian, a media personality, businesswoman, and aspiring lawyer, shares her journey from reality TV star to digital mogul. She reflects on balancing motherhood and pursuing a law degree while highlighting celebrity influence in justice reform. The conversation dives into the complexities of fame in the social media era, touching on authenticity, body image, and cultural representation. Kim also offers fun insights, discussing her favorite SNL cast member and her perspective on navigating life in the spotlight.

Wilfred Reilly, a political scientist at Kentucky State University and author of "Hate Crime Hoaxes," dives into the Jussie Smollett controversy. He examines why individuals risk everything to falsely claim victimhood, revealing societal impacts of hate crime hoaxes on real victims. Reilly explores the media's role in sensationalizing such incidents and critiques the motivations behind narratives on racism and justice. The discussion urges a nuanced understanding of accountability and the consequences of fabricated claims in today's polarized society.

Tyler Cowen, an economist and professor at George Mason University, delivers insights on today’s baffling economic landscape. He dives into inflation trends and the impact of recent fiscal policies. The conversation touches on the 'Great Resignation,' exploring labor market shifts and income inequality. Cowen offers thoughts on the contrasting fortunes of large corporations versus small businesses during the pandemic, and he discusses the rise of AI and its influence on productivity. A robust analysis of societal dynamics emerges, touching on cultural and technological advancements.

Desmond Shum, a Chinese entrepreneur and author of Red Roulette, shares his harrowing journey from riches to rags after his ex-wife Whitney vanished under mysterious circumstances tied to the Chinese Communist Party. He reflects on the culture of fear and disappearances in China, drawing parallels to other high-profile cases like Peng Shuai. Shum delves into the intertwining of business and politics, revealing how Western corporations navigate China's shifting dynamics, all while grappling with the moral implications of doing business in a repressive regime.

Marty Makary, a prominent professor at Johns Hopkins and author of 'The Price We Pay,' joins to dissect the current state of COVID-19. He examines the confusion around safety measures, emphasizing the need for personal choice, especially for the young and healthy. The conversation dives into the political implications of vaccine mandates and critiques the flawed decision-making behind public health policies. Makary also addresses the troubling mental health effects of strict regulations, urging a balance between safety and well-being as we consider moving beyond the pandemic.