Lost Debate

Tyler Austin Harper, a writer for The Atlantic and host of the podcast Time to Say Goodbye, joins the conversation to dissect the implications of the Diddy verdict and its ramifications for prosecutorial practices. They analyze Zohran Mamdani's victory in the NYC mayoral primary, reflecting on evolving views of political moderation. Finally, Tyler shares insights from his piece on the vital role of hobbies in political and social life, highlighting how personal passions can bridge divides in a polarized society.

Ravi chats with Bradley Tusk, a seasoned author and owner of the independent bookstore P&T Knitwear, to dissect the stunning political upset in New York City with Zohran Mamdani's unexpected primary win. They explore the decline of Cuomo, the disconnect between voters and traditional candidates, and the vital strategies Mamdani must adopt to govern effectively. The conversation also touches on Mayor Eric Adams' independent run and critiques the Democratic establishment's missteps in interpreting this dramatic shift.

Patrick McGee, a journalist and author of "Apple in China," dives into the complexities of Apple's relationship with the Chinese state. He reveals how this partnership may have bolstered America's largest geopolitical rival and the implications for tech and global politics. Discussions also cover the escalating U.S.-Iran tensions, the divided views within the Republican Party on foreign intervention, and the socio-economic challenges facing the U.S. workforce amidst technological advancements. McGee's insights make you reevaluate the intersection of tech and geopolitics.

Antón Barba-Kay, a distinguished fellow at the Center on Privacy and Technology at Georgetown Law, joins to discuss the rise of Mexican drug cartels as social media influencers. The conversation reveals how these cartels use platforms like TikTok to shape public perception, blending crime with celebrity. Barba-Kay further explores the national security implications of this trend and the broader cultural flattening occurring in the digital age, illustrating the unique challenges law enforcement faces in combating cartel activities amidst a fragmented information landscape.

Donald Trump and Elon Musk are on a collision course to all-out political war, and it's messier—and more consequential—than anyone expected. In this breaking news episode, Ravi unpacks how a once-symbiotic alliance devolved into internet warfare, with accusations flying and stakes rising by the hour. He then explores how a Musk-Trump feud could have massive ripple effects on national security, tech policy, and the future of the Republican Party. Finally, Ravi takes a step back to explain why this brewing battle is anything but entertainment. -- Leave us a voicemail with your thoughts on the show! 321-200-0570⁠ Follow Ravi at @ravimgupta Follow The Branch at @thebranchmedia Listen to more episodes of Lost Debate on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lost-debate/id1591300785 Listen to more episodes of Lost Debate on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7xR9pch9DrQDiZfGB5oF0F

Jamie Hodari, founder of Industrious and now a senior executive at CBRE, discusses the future of work and the evolving nature of workplace connections. He shares insights on the impact of technology and AI on job roles, emphasizing the importance of community amid growing isolation. The conversation also explores the emotional dynamics post-acquisition and the significance of social rituals in enhancing workplace relationships. Additionally, they touch on the political influence of tech elites and the challenges of remote work.

Steven Wilson, the founder of Ascend Charter Schools and author of 'The Lost Decade,' dives into the intricate world of education reform. He candidly shares his controversial exit from Ascend and critiques how DEI orthodoxy is reshaping educational priorities. They explore the tension between academic excellence and evolving cultural norms, while questioning the influence of funders on school values. Wilson advocates for rigorous yet inclusive school cultures, emphasizing the importance of core knowledge and accountability to genuinely uplift students.

Bridget Read, a journalist at New York Magazine focused on housing inequality, joins the discussion to unpack the alarming realities of multi-level marketing (MLM) schemes. She reveals how these so-called opportunities exploit vulnerable individuals, turning entrepreneurial dreams into financial traps. The conversation dives into the deceptive tactics used to recruit members and the societal impact of MLMs on personal relationships. Bridget also connects MLMs to broader themes of community and belonging, particularly in the wake of the COVID pandemic.

John King, former U.S. Secretary of Education and current SUNY Chancellor, shares his journey from teacher to policy leader, emphasizing the importance of public education. He delves into how education reform has faltered while highlighting successful innovations like Roxbury Prep. King also discusses the challenges of the Common Core and reflects on educational accountability in New York and Florida. The conversation is framed by critiques of economic policies and pressing questions surrounding Senator John Fetterman's health, creating a thought-provoking dialogue.

William Finnegan, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and lifelong surfer, shares his unique insights into surfing and storytelling. He reflects on his book, "Barbarian Days," exploring how fear and identity shape the pursuit of mastery. The conversation delves into the tension between traditional and modern surfing, particularly with wave pools symbolizing broader societal changes. Finnegan also addresses the challenges faced by writers today and how new generations can find meaning in their crafts amidst growing commercialization. Passion meets purpose in this engaging discussion!