Reveal

David Sirota, a renowned journalist and co-writer of the Oscar-nominated film Don’t Look Up, dives into the pressing issue of climate change and its role in the devastating Texas floods. He critiques government inaction and highlights the failures of both parties to adequately address these crises. Sirota also discusses the implications of Zohran Mamdani's recent political win, shedding light on the ideological divides within the Democratic Party and the need for a stronger populist movement in the face of rising disillusionment among voters.

In this thought-provoking discussion, investigative reporter Brian Howey uncovers shocking practices used by police in California regarding death notifications. Guest Bruce Praet, co-founder of Lexipol, controversially advises officers to gather potentially damaging information about victims before informing families of their deaths. Howey reveals how this tactic affects grieving families and their legal struggles. The emotional turmoil and ethical dilemmas surrounding these methods shed light on the urgent need for reform in law enforcement communication practices.

Daniel Holz, a University of Chicago professor and founder of the Existential Risk Laboratory, discusses the alarming update of the Doomsday Clock now set at 89 seconds to midnight. He explores the intertwined threats of nuclear war and AI in military applications, emphasizing their potential to propel humanity toward catastrophe. Holz shares historical insights about the clock and encourages public engagement and awareness to combat these pressing risks, while highlighting hopeful past successes in averting disaster.

Aaron Glantz, a dedicated reporter known for his investigation into the VA's opioid prescription practices, joins former executive producer Kevin Sullivan to reflect on a decade of impactful journalism. They discuss the opioid crisis among veterans, highlighting personal stories like Marine Corps veteran Tim Fazio's struggles with addiction. The conversation also covers significant investigations revealing injustices in water usage and labor exploitation, illustrating the power of journalism to drive social change and accountability.

Jeffrey Goldberg, Editor-in-chief of The Atlantic and a seasoned journalist, shares insights from being unintentionally included in a secret chat about military actions in Yemen. He discusses the alarming implications of the Trump administration's decision-making on national security. The conversation touches on escalating tensions with Iran, the precarious situation in Taiwan, and the role of journalism in safeguarding democracy. Goldberg also emphasizes the need for empathy in society and the importance of balanced reporting amid chaotic political landscapes.

Kiera Butler, a National Correspondent for Mother Jones, and Rob Schenck, a former leader in the Christian nationalist movement, dive into the intriguing pronatalist movement. They explore how billionaires like Elon Musk and conservative values intersect in a push for higher birth rates to purportedly save civilization. The conversation covers embryo optimization, the ethics of who should reproduce, and Schenck’s transformative journey from advocating for abortion rights to grappling with the moral implications of his past actions in the political arena.

Mohsen Mahdawi is a Palestinian activist and Columbia University student who faced arrest by ICE after a citizenship interview. He discusses his traumatic childhood in a West Bank refugee camp and how witnessing injustice has shaped his activism. Mohsen shares his experiences of fear and anxiety surrounding immigration policies, as well as the emotional turmoil of his detainment. He emphasizes the need for solidarity and support for pro-Palestinian activism at universities, shedding light on the challenges confronting students in the current political climate.

Lauren Chooljian, an investigative reporter at New Hampshire Public Radio, dives into the alarming issue of sexual misconduct in addiction treatment. She reveals the pervasive problem known as '13-stepping,' where vulnerable women are exploited by powerful men in recovery. Chooljian shares chilling stories of intimidation faced during her investigation into Eric Spofford's allegations and highlights another case involving Chris Bathum's fraud and abuse. The podcast serves as a powerful call for accountability and justice in the addiction recovery landscape.

In this engaging conversation, Retired Brigadier General Greg Smith, who dedicated 35 years to the Army National Guard, shares his unsettling observations on the military's increasing political role, particularly in response to immigration protests. He critiques the use of the National Guard for enforcing federal agendas, questioning the implications for constitutional rights. Smith draws on personal experiences managing civil unrest to emphasize the delicate balance between security and free speech, raising vital concerns about military loyalty and public trust.

Tim Murphy, a dedicated reporter for Mother Jones, dives into the fractured landscape of the Democratic Party as it faces unprecedented challenges. He discusses the alarming drop in support from traditional bases in immigrant communities, particularly in cities like New York. With a critical mayoral election on the horizon, Murphy examines the clash between centrist and progressive candidates, highlighting the urgent need for the party to reconnect with disillusioned voters. Personal anecdotes reveal the real-life impact of political shifts on communities, sparking a vital conversation about the party's future.