Factually! with Adam Conover

Discover how Zohran Mamdani's unexpected victory in the New York Democratic primary is reshaping political campaigning. Focused on affordability, he connects with voters through relatable strategies, standing apart from traditional politicians. The discussion highlights innovative grassroots strategies that boost voter engagement, especially among younger demographics. With a call for honesty and prioritizing citizens' needs, this insightful dialogue blends personal stories with strategies for a new wave of political leadership.

Liz Pelly, a music writer and author of 'Mood Machine,' dives into the dark side of Spotify's impact on the music industry. She discusses how the platform's algorithm favors stock music and ghost artists, misleading listeners and compromising artistic integrity. Pelly unpacks the issues of poor pay for artists and the flattening of music discovery, raising concerns about listener identity. The conversation urges a cultural shift toward valuing diverse musical expression and supporting independent musicians in this digital age.

Discover the alarming rise of U.S. immigration enforcement and its implications, as resources shift towards a powerful internal deportation force. Delve into controversial legislation that prioritizes tax cuts for the wealthy while undermining healthcare for the vulnerable. Explore personal stories that illuminate the fear and societal shifts driven by aggressive immigration policies. Finally, hear about the inspiring resilience of communities uniting against militarization and standing up for their rights.

Jaz Brisack, an activist and author who played a pivotal role in organizing Starbucks workers in Buffalo, shares her insights on labor organizing. She discusses the innovative strategy of 'salting', where organizers infiltrate workplaces to advocate for unionization. Jaz highlights the importance of building solidarity among workers and the unique challenges they face against corporate tactics. Surprisingly, she even points out how cats can help foster community among coworkers. Together, they explore activism's role in promoting social justice.

The podcast delves into the troubling implications of a recent Supreme Court ruling on trans youth care, revealing its impact on individual rights. It reflects on the regression of LGBTQ rights since the legalization of gay marriage in 2015, questioning the sustainability of queer acceptance. The discussion also highlights pivotal moments in LGBTQ+ activism, notably the Stonewall Uprising, and emphasizes the rise of anti-trans sentiment in politics. Ultimately, it celebrates resilience and the importance of grassroots activism within the community.

Lina Khan, the former chair of the FTC and a pioneer in antitrust advocacy, joins to share her experiences combating corporate power. She discusses her groundbreaking efforts against tech giants and the need for consumer protection reform. Highlighting the challenges faced by independent businesses and deceptive corporate practices, Khan emphasizes the importance of public support and bipartisanship in creating a fairer economy. Her insights reveal not just victories, but a call to action for ongoing vigilance against corporate influence in our lives.

Dr. Eric Topol, a renowned cardiologist and director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute, dives into the current state of healthcare and longevity research. He discusses the paradox of significant medical advancements contrasted with political threats to research funding. The conversation covers the dangers of health misinformation, the intricacies of aging and immunity, and the transformative potential of mRNA vaccines. Topol also critiques the U.S. healthcare system while advocating for personalized medicine as a means to improve health outcomes.

David Roth, a journalist at Defector and a longtime NYC resident, joins the conversation to dissect the political upheaval in New York City, spurred by the candidacy of Zohran Mamdani. They highlight Mamdani's fresh approach towards making the city more livable, discussing why the Democratic establishment seems threatened by him. The talk dives into the peculiar tactics of local politicians, the disconnect between elites and everyday New Yorkers, and emphasizes the power of authenticity in political communication. Roth also sheds light on how media narratives shape public perception.

The discussion opens with alarming statistics showing how technology is diminishing our cognitive skills. It highlights a shift from engaging with content to passive consumption, warning that this approach stifles growth. The podcast delves into the crisis in critical thinking among students due to AI tools, emphasizing the danger of choosing convenience over understanding. Lastly, it advocates for active mental engagement and creative thinking, likening it to physical exercise crucial for intellectual health.

Greg Grandin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian from Yale and author of 'America, America: A New History of the New World', dives deep into the controversial dynamics between the U.S. and Latin America. He dissects the historical roots of anti-Latin American sentiments, especially during the Trump era, and connects past imperialist attitudes to today’s political landscape. Grandin also contrasts race and citizenship approaches in both regions and reflects on the lasting effects of U.S. interventions, revealing a complex narrative of connection and conflict.