Honestly with Bari Weiss

Batya Ungar-Sargon, a Free Press contributor and opinion editor at Newsweek, teams up with Brianna Wu, a Democratic fundraiser and former video game developer. Together, they analyze the catastrophic Los Angeles fires and their implications for local politics. They dive into the ideological rifts within the MAGA movement over immigration, especially regarding H-1B visas. The duo also discusses Mark Zuckerberg's pivot at Meta and predicts potential outcomes for upcoming political confirmation hearings.

Julie Bindel, a British feminist and author, and Ayaan Hirsi Ali, an activist known for her focus on women's rights, tackle the shocking cover-up of grooming gangs in the UK. They expose how law enforcement and the media ignored systematic abuse for decades, driven by fears of political correctness. The conversation dives into societal complacency regarding heinous crimes, the risks faced by whistleblowers, and the urgent need for accountability in addressing these failures. Their insights shine a light on a narrative that many are hesitant to confront.

Bryan Johnson, a tech entrepreneur and biohacking pioneer featured in the Netflix documentary 'Don't Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever,' shares his radical approach to longevity. He reveals his extreme routines, like dining at 11 a.m. and extensive health experiments. The discussion transcends diet and exercise, touching on profound questions about identity, purpose, and the quest for immortality. Bryan challenges traditional views, advocating for a cultural shift in health awareness while exploring the philosophical implications of a life well-lived.

Seth Dillon, CEO of The Babylon Bee and a staunch advocate for free speech, dives into the art of satire as a tool for truth-telling in a divided world. He shares how The Bee cleverly mocks political dynamics while addressing issues like censorship and antisemitism. The conversation highlights the prophetic nature of their humor, touching on the complexities of wokeness and the consequences of speaking out. Dillon emphasizes the importance of diverse voices in comedy and the ongoing struggle for open discourse in today's media landscape.

Join political analyst Sarah Isgur as she delves into what a Trump 2.0 administration could mean for the nation. Cultural commentator Suzy Weiss reveals the pop culture trends shaping 2025, while linguist John McWhorter discusses the evolution of language, highlighting contemporary slang. Fashion influencer Leandra Medine shares exciting trends from personal aesthetics to bold accessories, urging creativity in wardrobes. Together, they predict a dynamic year ahead, blending serious insights with humorous observations on culture and society.

Join historian Tom Holland, a masterful storyteller and host of "The Rest is History," as he explores the monumental impact of Christianity on the world. He discusses how the religion transformed society from its humble beginnings, arguing that Christianity is key to understanding modern Western values. Holland delves into its role in major revolutions and current cultural debates, reflecting on how these ideas persist today. Plus, he raises thought-provoking questions about the future of faith and its place in a secular world.

Celebrate the interconnectedness of cultures this holiday season! Discover how iconic Christmas songs were penned by Jewish composers, including Irving Berlin's legendary 'White Christmas' and Mel Torme's 'Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire.' Learn about the immigrant experiences behind these classics and how their creators blended Jewish heritage with festive cheer. The podcast also touches on nostalgia and the evolution of Christmas music as a melting pot of traditions, making it universally beloved.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, discusses the turbulent relationship between him and Elon Musk, revealing their initial partnership and growing disagreements over AI governance. He reflects on how AI, particularly ChatGPT, has transformed daily life and sparked crucial debates about regulation and corporate ethics. Altman also addresses the implications of AI in military contexts and highlights the need for responsible technological leadership amidst the competitive landscape. Their fractured friendship underscores the emotional stakes involved in the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence.

Theo Padnos, journalist and author of "Undercover Muslim," shares his harrowing experiences of nearly two years of captivity and torture in Syria. He discusses the dramatic fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime and the emergence of the rebel coalition Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, led by the controversial Abu Mohammad al-Jolani. Padnos delves into the psychological dynamics of extremism, survival, and identity amidst dehumanization, highlighting the complex interplay of power and morality in a landscape filled with shifting allegiances and enduring trauma.

Kemi Badenoch, the first Black woman to lead the UK Conservative Party, shares her unique journey from Nigeria to political leadership. She discusses the current challenges facing Britain, including national debt and identity crisis. Badenoch delves into the ideological struggles within her party post-Brexit and her views on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. She also addresses rising anti-Semitism and the need for reforms in policing. Her perspectives on feminism, free speech, and modern conservatism reveal a compelling vision for a cohesive society.