The Gray Area with Sean Illing

Emily Oster, a professor of economics at Brown University and author known for her data-driven approach to parenting, challenges conventional wisdom surrounding family life. She debunks parenting myths, particularly around breastfeeding and sleep training, with empirical evidence. Oster discusses how socio-economic factors shape parenting decisions and the emotional struggles parents face amid conflicting advice. The conversation highlights the need for clear communication about risks and the nuanced realities of child development, emphasizing that not all expert opinions are based on solid data.

Melissa Bell, Publisher of Vox Media and co-founder, along with Matt Yglesias, Senior correspondent at Vox, share insights from their journey over the past five years. They discuss the shift to digital media and the innovative strategies that have shaped audience engagement. The duo reflects on early management challenges, the emotional ups and downs of building Vox, and the importance of having a strong leadership layer. They also touch on the significance of accessible journalism and how healthy discourse has guided their mission to be the 'voice' in media.

Anne Helen Petersen, a writer celebrated for her viral BuzzFeed piece on millennial burnout, joins Derek Thompson of The Atlantic, who explores 'workism.' They dive into how work has shifted from a necessity to a core part of our identities, often leading to burnout. The conversation critiques societal pressures surrounding productivity and how social media influences our work-life balance. They discuss the need for a cultural shift to prioritize well-being over relentless productivity, calling for a deeper understanding of meaningful leisure.

Sheri Berman, a political scientist at Barnard College and an expert on European social democracy, dives into the rise and fall of social democracy in Europe. She contrasts it with populist movements, emphasizing the left's fragmentation. Berman explores the historical shifts that led to the decline of social democratic parties, the challenges of maintaining voter support amidst rising populism, and the intricate relationship between welfare states and political identity. Her insights shed light on how understanding Europe's political landscape can inform current American dynamics.

Eric Kaufmann, author of "Whiteshift," explores the complexities of white identity in an era of demographic change. He argues that the backlash against these shifts is driving right-wing populism globally. Kaufmann discusses the importance of slowing demographic changes to ease societal fears and navigates the delicate balance between nationalism and diversity. The conversation highlights the need for nuanced dialogue around identity and belonging while addressing the rising complexities of political dynamics in America.

Michael Brendan Dougherty, a senior writer at National Review and author of the memoir 'My Father Left Me Ireland,' delves into the deep connections between identity, nationalism, and fatherhood. He shares powerful insights from his personal narrative, reflecting on how cultural heritage shapes individual identity. The discussion explores the moral responsibilities tied to nationalism, the emotional impacts of fatherlessness, and the complexities of historical legacies in contemporary society. Dougherty challenges modern views, emphasizing the importance of heartfelt connections in today's world.

Will Wilkinson, Director of Research at the Niskanen Center and a former libertarian, discusses his journey towards a more centrist political ideology. He argues that the center-right must regain relevance amidst rising extremism. Wilkinson explores how personal ambitions conflict with communal responsibilities, and the psychological factors driving political identities. He highlights the complexities of political engagement and the need for a new coalition that balances economic freedom and social responsibility, drawing on the successes of Nordic welfare systems.

Eddie Glaude Jr., Chair of African American Studies at Princeton and author of "Democracy in Black," dives deep into how whiteness shapes America's political landscape. He discusses the complexities of race as a social construct and its ramifications on societal hierarchies. Glaude emphasizes the need for authentic conversations around systemic inequality and reparations. He critiques illusions of progress during the Obama presidency, calling for transformative change to create a truly inclusive democracy.

Pete Buttigieg, the former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, and a prominent 2020 presidential candidate, shares his compelling vision for political change. He discusses the pivotal role of collective action in addressing big societal issues like carbon emissions and wealth disparity. Buttigieg delves into how local governance aligns with broader philosophical themes, navigating the complexities of American political ideology and polarization. He emphasizes the importance of identity in voter decisions and the influence of literature on his political thought.

Rhiana Gunn-Wright, the policy architect behind the Green New Deal and a Yale graduate, discusses her ambitious plans to decarbonize the U.S. economy while addressing social equity. She emphasizes the Green New Deal's goals as guiding principles rather than a strict policy document. Gunn-Wright tackles common misconceptions and advocates for urgent action, collaboration, and workforce development to support marginalized communities. She highlights the vital role of the public sector in innovation and the need for inclusive strategies in policy-making.