The Bulletin

David Graham, a staff writer at The Atlantic, dives into the political landscape, discussing Elon Musk's strategic retreat from Washington to focus on his business. He sheds light on the complexities of food aid in Gaza and the historical ties influencing American evangelical responses. Graham also explores Project 2025, addressing its roots in conservative movements and advocating for traditional governance values. This thought-provoking conversation links current events to broader narratives within American politics and society.

This week features Tom Nichols, a staff writer at The Atlantic and a national security expert, discussing Trump's surprising embrace of cryptocurrency and its ethical implications. Kelly Rosati, president of Hope for Brighter Tomorrows, shares poignant insights on mental illness in families and the unique challenges faced by foster children. Together, they explore the urgent issues of human trafficking and online scams in Southeast Asia, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding in tackling these complex social problems.

Joining the conversation are Rabbi Josh Stanton, spiritual co-leader of East End Temple and a senior fellow at CLAL, and Bishop Robert Stearns, founder of Eagles' Wings and presiding bishop of the historic Tabernacle Church in Buffalo. They reflect on the tragic loss of two Israeli embassy workers, emphasizing solidarity amid rising anti-Semitism. The discussion also touches on shifting perspectives regarding Putin, the influence of Kermit's speech at graduation, and the importance of mutual support between Jewish and Christian communities in addressing systemic issues.

Sharon McMahon, known as "America’s government teacher" on Instagram, joins the discussion. She shares insights on the recent Supreme Court decisions affecting immigration and the implications of Trump's legislative agenda. The conversation highlights the urgent need for reform in the U.S. immigration system amidst rising public concern and ICE raids. The guest also reflects on the historical significance of the Nicene Creed as it celebrates its 1,700th birthday, linking it to contemporary Christianity and the importance of faith in today's world.

In this discussion, Roger Berkowitz, founder of the Hannah Arendt Center and professor at Bard College, dives into the politics of tyranny. He analyzes the rise of cruel governance and its implications for democracy. The conversation also touches on contemporary issues like U.S.-Russia relations amidst rising conflict and the political ramifications of President Biden’s health. Berkowitz emphasizes the need for resilience in civil discourse, highlighting the importance of historical context in understanding today’s political extremism.

Kate Shellnutt, the editorial director of news for Christianity Today, joins the conversation on significant topics like President Trump’s Middle East tour and its implications for U.S. diplomacy. They delve into the controversial exposure of a Baptist minister as an online troll, raising questions about accountability in faith communities. Additionally, the discussion covers the arrival of Afrikaner refugees in the U.S., navigating complex narratives around their claims of persecution amidst broader refugee policy challenges.

Phylicia Masonheimer, author and founder of Every Woman a Theologian, dives into the rising trend of women’s pornographic literature. She discusses how media representations shape women's expectations of love and romance, critically examining the impact of erotic literature on perceptions of masculinity. Masonheimer highlights the emotional consequences and societal shame women face, advocating for open conversations to foster healthier relationships. The discussion urges reevaluation of media exposure to encourage discernment and spiritual growth.

Jonathan Schanzer, Senior Vice President for Research at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, shares his insights on the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, examining the implications for the region. He also delves into the ongoing legal battles surrounding the abortion pill, highlighting the changing attitudes towards reproductive rights. The discussion then shifts to the rise of Hasan Piker, a Twitch influencer merging politics with entertainment, exploring why he resonates with audiences today.

Miroslav Volf, a leading Croatian theologian and Yale professor, discusses the true cost of ambition. He delves into how the pursuit of success can strain personal identity and relationships. Volf critiques the competitive nature of society, likening it to the 2008 U.S. Olympic basketball team, where ambition sometimes overshadows empathy. He emphasizes the importance of unconditional love, urging listeners to reflect on the balance between striving for excellence and cultivating a more inclusive community.

Join Brian Dijkema, a public policy analyst and president of Cardus Canada, and Andrew Egger, White House correspondent for The Bulwark, as they dissect pivotal political events. They delve into Canada’s recent election and the surprising shifts it reveals about governance and identity. The dialogue also tackles America’s falling birth rates, critiquing the current responses to family dynamics and societal pressures. Finally, they analyze Trump's first 100 days in office, offering insights into media strategies and public perception during his presidency.