

Lost Debate
The Branch
Lost Debate is a weekly podcast from The Branch that brings you news, ideas, and arguments from around the political spectrum. We engage in the good-faith discussions that too much of our society and media miss. It's hosted by Ravi Gupta, a former Obama staffer turned school principal.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 17, 2024 • 55min
The Ticking U.S. Debt Bomb
Dylan Matthews, a senior correspondent and lead writer at Vox, joins Ravi to dissect the intricate web of the U.S. national debt. They discuss the historical context of deficits and how they resonate with Americans today, particularly through healthcare costs. The conversation highlights the role of immigration in economic stability and explores innovative self-insurance strategies in healthcare. As the U.S. inches closer to record debt levels, they consider potential reforms essential for sustainable fiscal policy.

Sep 16, 2024 • 20min
Springfield and a Dangerous New Phase of the Campaign
Former President Donald Trump, known for his polarizing views, and politician JD Vance discuss the dangerous rise of misinformation and its real-world consequences, particularly in communities like Springfield, Ohio. They highlight the emotional toll of political exploitation, especially concerning incidents involving immigrants. The conversation shifts to the escalating tensions of the 2024 election, addressing the implications of hate-driven rhetoric and the need for accountability among political leaders in a climate ripe for misunderstanding and instability.

Sep 15, 2024 • 51min
The Return of Campus Protests and K-12 Curriculum Wars
Ravi chats with Emma Green, a journalist from The New Yorker specializing in education and social issues. They delve into the chaos at Columbia University, highlighting the impact of protests on staff like security guards. The discussion then shifts to the rise of classical education and its ideological implications in today's polarized climate. Emma also examines the challenges of K-12 curriculum debates, touching on community values and the future of public education amid shifting political landscapes.

Sep 12, 2024 • 1h 7min
Debate Moments, Inside the Spin Room, Elon in Trumpworld
Gabriel Debenedetti, a National Correspondent for New York Magazine, and Tara Palmeri, Senior Political Correspondent at Puck News, delve into the recent presidential debate. They discuss the strategic maneuvers of Harris and Trump, revealing behind-the-scenes spin room dynamics. The duo also highlights the evolving role of Elon Musk in Trump's campaign and examines internal struggles within the Trump campaign, addressing personnel shifts and public perception challenges. It's a captivating look at the current political landscape and the strategies shaping it.

Sep 11, 2024 • 28min
Post-Debate Reaction + Taylor Swift Endorsement
Vice President Kamala Harris, a trailblazer in American politics, and former President Donald Trump, known for his provocative style, faced off in a high-stakes debate. They delved into hot-button issues like immigration and abortion, where Harris showcased confidence while Trump struggled with responses. Unexpected moments emerged, including a surprising handshake. The discussion critically examined the fallout of January 6 and emphasized the need for unity in the face of divisive rhetoric, making for a compelling political dialogue.

Sep 8, 2024 • 1h
The Red State Education Revolution
In this enlightening conversation, Andrew Clark, president of yes. every. kid., delves into the evolving landscape of education reform in America. He discusses the growing popularity of Education Savings Accounts and the implications for public versus private schooling. Andrew highlights the impact of changing demographics and increased calls for individualized learning. The dialogue also touches on the decline in public school enrollment and the rise of homeschooling, emphasizing the need for diverse educational options tailored to family and community needs.

Sep 5, 2024 • 1h 45min
The History of Presidential Debates: Part One
Join Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump as they dive into the rich history of presidential debates. They discuss how the landmark 1960 Kennedy-Nixon debate forever changed the game, with visuals influencing public perception. Harris and Trump also explore the evolution of debate preparation strategies, featuring insights from Reagan to Clinton. The conversation touches on the contentious nature of debates, the role of non-verbal communication, and evolving formats that shape electoral outcomes today.

Sep 1, 2024 • 44min
Broken Families, Estrangement, and Generational Trends
In this discussion, Ann Bauer, an insightful commentator on familial dynamics, sheds light on America’s rising crisis of family estrangement. She reveals that over 25% of millennials and Gen Z feel disconnected from family members. Bauer explores how media influences expectations, alongside societal trends that shape these relationships. The conversation dives into personal anecdotes of estrangement, the evolving values of younger generations, and the hope for greater understanding through open communication, urging a move away from estrangement culture.

Aug 29, 2024 • 33min
Fights in the Forgotten Borough: Part Two
Tensions rise in Staten Island over migrant shelters as a priest faces threats and community voices feel ignored. The struggles of Venezuelan and Colombian migrants through the Darien Gap highlight their resilience and vulnerabilities. Conversations unveil deep divides over the shelter debate, revealing fears and misinformation impacting community safety. Local leadership grapples with complex pressures, showcasing the moral dilemmas of providing aid amid growing unrest. Reflections from long-time residents underscore the challenges of adapting to demographic changes and preserving community identity.

Aug 27, 2024 • 28min
Fights in the Forgotten Borough: Part One
Ravi Gupta, a Staten Island native and community advocate, delves into the island's tumultuous summer of 2023 when protests erupted over a migrant shelter. He uncovers the tension between local values and the challenges of immigration policy. Gupta explores Staten Island's legacy, from its troubled past with the Fresh Kills Landfill to its current sociopolitical struggles. With a focus on cultural identity, he illustrates how historical context informs the community's response to change amidst national immigration debates.


