Tommy Vietor, a co-host from Pod Save America, dives into the dynamics of the Democratic National Convention, discussing the influence of social media on political narratives. He reveals how the DNC is tuning out Gaza protesters and whether unity around Kamala Harris can endure. Joining the conversation, Max, recently featured in GQ, brings a lighthearted take on style and quirky marketing ideas, including a potential Chick-fil-A streaming service. Together, they unpack how evolving masculinity impacts political communication and campaign strategies.

Fresh off digital detoxes, Ben and Nayeema plug back in to a moment of Olympics patriotism and to a patriotic (?) American media that is refusing to report on the substance of a foreign hacking campaign that targeted former President Trump.This episode digs into the irony of the media’s glee at the 2016 DNC hack – and the careful treatment of the Trump campaign hack of today. Eight years ago Wikileaks dumped a trove of emails before the public, leading to revelations about Hillary Clinton’s Goldman Sachs speeches and John Podesta’s secret to a great risotto. Today, we’re not sure if any amazing recipes are part of the Trump campaign hack because The New York Times, Politico, and The Washington Post have all declined to report its contents. Ben and Nayeema explore why these two campaign hacks are receiving totally different media treatments and why people are mad at Ben for celebrating today’s editorial restraint. To dive deeper, they talk to Christina Reynolds, a Democratic operative, opposition researcher, and two-time victim of digital hacks. Her emails were part of both the 2014 Sony hack and the 2016 DNC hack. Finally, producer Alli stands in for Max this week, offering a breakdancing blindspot.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Anthony Fauci, a public health expert and former face of the COVID-19 response, shares insights from his memoir and reflects on the media's role during the pandemic. Donald McNeil Jr., a veteran health journalist, joins to examine how misinformation impacted public trust. They delve into the chaotic media dynamics, the struggle for clear communication, and the clash between science and conspiracy theories. The conversation highlights the lasting effects of the pandemic on public discourse and the vital need for accountability in journalism.

Debating Kamala Harris's popularity surge through memes and the K-hive expansion. Frank Rich, Veep EP, shares notes on a bizarre election month and questions the possibility of a modern West Wing. Max Tani joins to discuss RFK's farming proposal and Americans hiding spending habits from loved ones.

Semafor reporter Kadia Goba discusses Trump's appeal to Black men, particularly iconic athletes of the 80s. The podcast explores the RNC's focus on appealing to American men via UFC, Hulk Hogan, and the manosphere. Other topics include reactions to the attempted assassination of Trump and the undercurrent of masculinity in media and politics.

Guest Lindsay Peoples from The Cut discusses vibe shifts, gender roles, and Kamala Harris. Topics include traditional values, polyamory, and media portrayal of women. The podcast explores political environments, lifestyle trends, and marketing strategies. Analysis of Biden's communication skills and evolving societal attitudes towards women's choices.

Exploring media's failure to address Biden's condition, debunking conspiracy theories, analyzing media influence on calls for Biden to step aside, and discussing potential political figures' media strategies.

Political statistician Nate Silver discusses his election predictions, Biden's age, and why his model gives Trump a 66% chance of winning. The hosts dissect the disastrous debate and global elections, challenging the notion of bad TV.

Exploring TikTok ban conspiracies, journalistic ethics fallout, and Cannes Lions Festival insights. Discussion on TikTok's future, CEO controversies, and media distortions in fashion trends.

US Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, discusses media overlooking Sudan crisis vs. Gaza. Raw milk trend shift and Trump's jet scrutiny are highlighted. The impact of Hunter Biden's laptop controversy on the election is explored, along with media biases and misinformation challenges.