Honestly with Bari Weiss

Join Batya Ungar-Sargon, Newsweek opinion editor known for her keen political insights, and Brianna Wu, a political fundraising powerhouse, as they tackle the heated controversies surrounding Tulsi Gabbard and her contentious past. They discuss Trump’s audacious Gaza proposal and Netanyahu’s U.S. visit, analyzing geopolitical tensions alongside cultural shifts. The conversation also sheds light on rising anti-Semitism and the implications of foreign aid cuts, all while addressing how political discourse shapes public sentiment in today's polarized landscape.

Tyler Cowen, an economics professor and AI expert, joins Geoffrey Cain, a specialist on China and author of "The Perfect Police State," to unravel the recent AI rivalry sparked by China's DeepSeek. They discuss how this unexpected competitor emerged, challenging U.S. dominance despite restrictions on technology export. The conversation highlights potential national security threats, the complexities of trade, and the implications of AI on higher education. They argue for more dialogue amidst rising tensions as America navigates the shifting landscape of AI innovation.

Simon Sebag Montefiore, an award-winning historian and best-selling author, captivates listeners with fascinating tales of historical figures. He discusses the quirks of leaders like Stalin and Catherine the Great, shedding light on their human complexities. Montefiore also addresses current issues in Israel, the decline of confidence in democracy, and the intricate dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Through his storytelling, he emphasizes the ongoing relevance of history in understanding identity, politics, and our shared humanity.

Amy Chua, a Yale Law professor and the provocative author of Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, reflects on her controversial legacy. She dives into the evolving perception of strict parenting and free speech, contrasting today’s acceptance of her views with the backlash she received in the past. Chua discusses the delicate balance of tradition and innovation in academia, her mentorship of J.D. Vance, and critiques of cultural mediocrity. With a sense of humor, she also touches upon the realities of modern parenting amid changing societal norms.

Brianna Wu, a video game industry expert, and Madeleine Rowley, an investigative reporter, dive into the murky waters of DEI initiatives in the military. They share compelling insights on how these policies affect military readiness and culture, with Wu emphasizing the challenges faced since the 2011 diversity report. Rowley discusses the ramifications of political debates on recruitment and team cohesion. The conversation also touches on the political chaos surrounding Trump’s administration and its impact on military policies, painting a vivid picture of the current landscape.

Join Calley Means, founder of TrueMed and co-author of Good Energy; Jillian Michaels, America's fitness expert; and Vani Hari, Food Babe and Truvani founder, as they delve into the MAHA movement—an unexpected coalition transforming health in America. They discuss the political shifts driven by wellness influencers, the scrutiny over food quality and corporate practices, and the urgent quest for better health policies. Tune in for personal stories, humorous takes on health trends, and insights into the future of parenting and nutrition.

Joining the conversation are Batya Ungar-Sargon, a sharp cultural and political commentator, Brianna Wu, a bold software engineer and activist, and Peter Savodnik, senior editor at The Free Press. They dive into Trump's ambitious signing of 26 executive orders on his first day, with a focus on immigration and gender identity debates. The trio also unpacks the controversy surrounding TikTok's ownership and its implications for national security. Plus, they explore the evolving dynamics between tech and politics, highlighting figures like Elon Musk.

Eli Lake, a seasoned reporter and host of 'Breaking History,' teams up with former President Donald Trump to dive into the roots and realities of American populism. They explore how Trump's presidency echoes the sentiments of historical populist figures like Andrew Jackson and H. Ross Perot. Lake highlights how Trump's rise is part of a long-defiance tradition against the ruling class. The discussion reveals the complexities of populism: while it empowers the masses, it also poses risks to democratic principles.

Mike Johnson, the Speaker of the House and Republican leader, dives into the intricate dynamics of his position in a narrow majority. He humorously compares his role to a precarious marriage, navigating alliances among various GOP factions. Johnson critiques Biden as the 'worst president ever' and recounts a chilling moment in the Oval Office. He emphasizes the need for collaboration with moderate Democrats while addressing crucial topics like accountability in disaster aid and restoring trust after January 6, highlighting the Republican Party's evolving identity and challenges ahead.

H.R. McMaster, former National Security Advisor to President Trump and author of "At War with Ourselves," offers a candid glimpse into the tumult of the Trump administration. He shares insights on navigating Trump's unpredictable style and the internal conflicts among his advisors. McMaster discusses Trump's foreign policy decisions and surprising optimism for a potential second term despite the chaos of his first. They also explore key cabinet picks and the complexities of balancing loyalty with national security responsibilities.