Honestly with Bari Weiss

Ross Douthat, a New York Times columnist and author on religion, shares insights alongside Ayaan Hirsi Ali, a prominent activist focused on women's rights and immigration. Michael Shermer, founder of Skeptic magazine, argues the case for secularism while comedian Adam Carolla brings humor to a serious debate. They discuss the recent rise in Christian affiliation, the effects of declining religious beliefs on societal cohesion, and whether a religious revival can address contemporary moral crises.

Ezra Klein, a journalist at The New York Times, and Derek Thompson, a staff writer at The Atlantic, discuss how Democrats can regain power by envisioning a future rooted in innovation and pragmatism. They critique the inefficiency of blue states and explore how embracing technology can aid in solving critical issues like housing and healthcare. The duo also addresses the contradictions within progressives regarding urban housing, the importance of effective governance, and the need to evolve societal values in response to declining birth rates.

Alex Karp, the CEO of Palantir and author of "The Technological Republic," engages in a lively discussion about the tech industry's shift from meaningful innovation to superficiality. He shares insights from his personal struggle with dyslexia, emphasizing its unexpected advantages in professional settings. Karp critiques contemporary academia's ideological challenges and the rise of a new belief system he likens to a 'pagan religion.' He also addresses pressing issues like uplifting the working class and the complexities of free speech in today's polarized media landscape.

In this engaging conversation, Andrew Schulz, a comedian known for his independent specials, discusses his Netflix special, 'Life,' which candidly approaches male infertility with humor and vulnerability. He reflects on his decision to reject censorship and how it led to significant success. Schulz also tackles the complexities of parenting and societal views on masculinity related to fertility challenges. The dialogue is peppered with insights on the evolving landscape of comedy and the importance of authentic storytelling in navigating personal and political themes.

Sarah Wynn-Williams, Facebook’s highest-ranking whistleblower and former New Zealand diplomat, shares her shocking insider experiences at Meta. She reveals the stark contrast between the company’s idealistic image and its unsettling internal realities. Wynn-Williams discusses her SEC complaint regarding censorship for the Chinese government and highlights the ethical dilemmas of corporate ambitions versus democratic values. With anecdotes that blend comedy and serious reflection, she navigates her role in tech's complex landscape, shedding light on accountability and social media's impact.

Eli Lake, a Free Press reporter and host of Breaking History, dives into America's intricate relationship with Russia and Ukraine. He critiques past presidential approaches, notably contrasting Reagan's strong stance against Soviet aggression with contemporary views. Lake highlights the role of dissidents like Václav Havel in the Cold War, emphasizing their courage and resilience. He warns against political endorsements that echo Soviet propaganda, insisting on the importance of historical context in today’s discussions about freedom and moral responsibility.

Christopher Caldwell, author and political analyst, joins Brianna Wu, a strategic Democratic fundraiser, and Batya Ungar-Sargon, a columnist for The Free Press, to dissect the recent diplomatic upheaval involving President Trump and Ukraine's President Zelensky. They explore the contrasting foreign policy strategies of the U.S. and Europe, the implications of Trump's approach on international relations, and the intricate dynamics of political alliances. The conversation delves into the historical context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the challenges of defending democracy amid evolving global tensions.

Brian Armstrong, co-founder and CEO of Coinbase, delves into the evolving world of cryptocurrency, explaining its potential to reshape the financial landscape. He discusses Bitcoin as a future cornerstone of finance, amidst its volatile reputation. Armstrong addresses the intersection of crypto and politics, including regulatory challenges and public perceptions. He also highlights the importance of transparency in regaining trust following past fraud cases, while advocating for innovative financial solutions to empower underserved communities.

In this engaging discussion, Batya Ungar-Sargon, a Free Press columnist, Brianna Wu, a Democratic fundraising powerhouse, and Claire Lehmann, founder of Quillette, delve into the recent German elections where right-wing parties made significant gains, primarily driven by immigration concerns. They explore the social tensions arising from migrant incidents, the implications for multiculturalism, and rising antisemitism in Australia, shedding light on the emotional impact and fears within the Jewish community. The conversation highlights crucial themes of nationalism, integration challenges, and the necessity for open dialogue.

Matti Friedman, a Free Press correspondent in Jerusalem, dives into the tragic tale of the Bibas family, kidnapped by Hamas. He highlights the emotional impact of Shiri and her children's fate, drawing parallels to historical horrors. Conversations explore the moral dilemmas faced by societies when confronted with such violence and the resilience of families living under constant threat. Additionally, Friedman critiques the shifting narratives in media regarding Israel, emphasizing the increasing complexity of identity and safety for Jewish communities in a changing political landscape.