Factually! with Adam Conover

Julie Su, a civil rights and labor attorney, shares her insights on the attack on labor rights under Trump. She discusses the erosion of worker protections, the challenges faced by the NLRB and DOL, and the need for collective bargaining. Julie highlights recent successes bolstered by federal support and emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing. She addresses how to unite workers and the role of mature unions in advocating for labor. Listeners are encouraged to engage with their coworkers to spark important conversations around workplace rights.

Jason Koebler, a tech reporter and co-founder of 404 Media, dives into the world of A.I. slop, revealing its impact on content quality online. He discusses how human creators are overshadowed by algorithm-driven garbage, while emphasizing the importance of genuine journalism in this digital age. Koebler also explores the motivation behind the A.I. slop economy, including its influence on creators around the globe. The conversation shifts to government surveillance, addressing the privacy concerns tied to technology's rampant growth. Tune in for insights on combating algorithmic chaos!

Gianmarco Soresi, a stand-up comedian and writer from New York, discusses the evolving comedy landscape shaped by social media. He dives into the challenges of monetizing creativity online and the irreplaceable experience of live performances. The conversation touches on comedy's intersection with politics, the ethical responsibilities of comedians, and the nuances of crafting humor around sensitive themes. Gianmarco also shares insights on adapting to changing audience expectations while staying true to one’s comedic voice.

Explore the economic struggles plaguing everyday Americans as living costs soar, highlighting the growing discontent that could lead to systemic change. Discover the rise of LaBooBoo toys, symbolizing impulsive spending in tough times, much like the 'lipstick effect.' Delve into the hopelessness felt by many regarding their financial futures, and learn about the Lububu Index, a quirky metaphor showcasing how public sentiment reflects broader economic realities. It's a deep dive into the intertwining of consumer behavior and economic instability.

Omer Bartov, a professor of Holocaust and genocide studies at Brown University, brings his expertise to discuss the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He examines the complexities of labeling current events as genocide, drawing parallels to historical instances of ethnic cleansing. The conversation dives into the political narratives shaping Palestinian identity and the cultural erasure they face. Omer also highlights the moral responsibilities of Western nations and the nuanced relationship between Jewish identity and Israeli state actions, emphasizing the need for coexistence.

Casey Johnston, author of *A Physical Education* and creator of the *She’s a Beast* newsletter, dives into the empowerment of strength training over diet culture. She shares her transformative journey from skepticism to embracing weightlifting, challenging societal misconceptions, especially for women. Casey discusses redefining relationships with food, moving from restriction to enrichment, and emphasizes building muscle as a path to health. The conversation encourages a balanced, joyful approach to fitness, advocating for personal agency in health choices.

Dan Gregor and Doug Mand, writers of the new Naked Gun movie, dive into the current state of comedy in film. They discuss how audiences crave genuine laughter in theaters, contrasting it with the recent trend of less funny blockbusters. Their insights cover the balancing act between creative storytelling and corporate demands in filmmaking. They reflect on the impact of their sketch comedy roots, the unique comedic style of Naked Gun, and the exhilarating challenges of reviving laughter in today’s cinematic landscape.

Vivian Wilson, daughter of Elon Musk and a trans visibility icon, dives into a lively conversation with Adam Conover. They discuss her transformative journey, from rejecting her father's deadnaming to embracing her role in the spotlight. Vivian hilariously bullies Adam while touching on the complexities of fame, mental health, and online identity. Their chat weaves through nostalgic memories of dodgeball, the impacts of social media, and the challenges faced by the trans community, all served with wit and insight.

Bridget Read, a writer at New York Magazine and author of "Little Bosses Everywhere: How the Pyramid Scheme Shaped America," delves into the pervasive culture of multi-level marketing. She reveals how these schemes exploit hopes of financial freedom, particularly among vulnerable groups. The conversation highlights the psychological manipulations and cult-like dynamics of MLMs, contrasts them with collective bargaining, and emphasizes the importance of solidarity among individuals facing economic disparities. It's a sharp critique of the American dream gone awry.

Join Adam Conover and John Cassidy, a seasoned writer at the New Yorker and author of "Capitalism and Its Critics," as they dissect the entrenched problems within capitalism. They delve into historical critiques, exploring how perceptions of fairness and exploitation have evolved. Cassidy highlights the disconnect between media portrayals of business success and reality. The discussion also covers the urgent need for collective action on pressing issues like climate change, affordability, and the inequities inherent in the capitalist system.