Shane Smith Has Questions

Lawrence Lessig, a Harvard Law professor and democracy reform advocate, discusses the troubling effects of money in American politics. He highlights a little-known lower-court ruling that exacerbated super PAC influence and introduces Maine's groundbreaking initiative aiming to limit such spending. The conversation explores the Supreme Court's expanding power, the impact of crypto and AI on policy, and the urgency to tackle dark money before 2028. Lessig argues campaign finance reform might be our best hope for restoring democracy.

Maverick Carter, CEO of SpringHill Company and longtime partner of LeBron James, shares his fascinating journey from Akron’s underground club scene to redefining sports media. He recounts how sweeping floors taught him valuable lessons in capitalism. Maverick reveals why LeBron turned down a $10 million check from Reebok, choosing Nike instead, and discusses the evolution of their business empire. The conversation dives into the psychology of money, the meaning of earning one's name, and the future of media in a changing landscape.

Shane Smith chats with Aaron Parnas, a 26-year-old lawyer and viral political commentator, known for his real-time TikTok news reporting. They explore the erosion of trust in mainstream media and how social media has altered journalism. Aaron shares his journey from trauma to truth-seeking, emphasizing how TikTok democratizes reporting for Gen Z. They discuss the challenges of misinformation, the importance of speed in reporting, and how authenticity connects with diverse audiences. Aaron also addresses the persistence of conspiracy culture amid declining institutional trust.

In this engaging discussion, media mogul Barry Diller shares his incredible journey from a mailroom job to leading major studios like Paramount and 20th Century Fox. He reflects on the pivotal moments of his career, including his nervous breakdown at 19, and the chaos of iconic films like 'Grease.' Diller critiques Hollywood's shift to data-driven content and emphasizes the lost art of creative confrontation. With stories of near misses with Amazon and a candid look at his relationship with Diane von Furstenberg, he advocates for the power of curiosity in business.

Sam Harris, a philosopher and neuroscientist known for his insights on consciousness and AI ethics, joins Shane Smith for a thought-provoking discussion. They explore the impact of psychedelics on self-awareness and the importance of meditation in a rapidly changing world. Harris warns about the existential risks of unaligned AI and critiques tech billionaires' ethics. He delves into the illusion of free will and its moral implications, advocating for a compassionate understanding of our shared humanity amidst technological advances.

In this engaging conversation, Chuck Todd, a veteran political journalist and former host of Meet the Press, shares insights after leaving legacy media. He discusses the misreading of Obama's 2012 victory and how identity politics overshadowed class issues. Chuck also highlights the collapse of local journalism and its role in diminishing trust in democracy. He argues for rebuilding that trust through grassroots community storytelling and warns about the dangers of polarization in today's political landscape.

Scott Galloway and Shane Smith dive into the growing tension in today’s society, exploring how economic instability, digital culture, and political unrest are shaping people’s frustrations and anger. They analyze the rise of digital platforms, the deepening wealth divide, and the decline of traditional work structures, which have fueled a wave of anxiety and frustration. Galloway breaks down how capitalism’s evolution and the collapse of old economic systems are leaving many feeling powerless and left behind. The conversation delves into the cultural forces that amplify anger, and how these shifts are not only affecting individuals but also reshaping businesses and politics in ways that could have long-lasting consequences. Subscribe to VICE News here: http://bit.ly/Subscribe-to-VICE-News Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Psychedelics are reshaping medicine and culture. Ayahuasca ceremonies, ibogaine treatments, and ketamine clinics promise breakthroughs but raise hard questions about safety, tradition, and control. Hamilton Morris joins Shane Smith to unpack the science, myths, and politics behind today’s psychedelic movement. He breaks down the promises of ibogaine clinics, the rise of ketamine in psychiatry, and the battles over MDMA research, showing how curiosity and controversy continue to shape the future of psychedelics. The conversation highlights how political and economic forces influence the direction of psychedelic research. Don't miss a video! Subscribe NOW: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://bit.ly/Subscribe-to-VICE-News⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Check out VICE News for more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://vicenews.com⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ian Bremmer, the President and founder of Eurasia Group, dives deep into the rapidly changing global landscape. He highlights the impact of drone warfare, noting how cheap swarms can reshape security threats. As tensions rise between global powers like the U.S., China, and Russia, Bremmer discusses the challenges of diplomacy and the fractured state of globalization. He also touches on the tech race, emphasizing the U.S. lead in AI while warning about China's advancements in clean energy. Climate risks loom, yet a cleaner future is within reach if politics align.

Johnny Knoxville sits down with Shane Smith to discuss the physical and emotional costs of his career. He reflects on the chaotic start of Jackass, the pressures of sudden fame, and serious injuries like concussions and an eye fracture that nearly ended his life. The conversation covers his collaborations with Spike Jonze and Jeff Tremaine, the shift from MTV to feature films, and the political backlash that ultimately forced the show off the air. Knoxville speaks openly about his mental health struggles after repeated head trauma and how he found stability through therapy. Beyond the stunts, Knoxville highlights projects he’s proud of, including The Ringer, his outlaw country radio show, and documentaries like The Wild and Wonderful Whites of West Virginia. This honest talk reveals a rarely seen side of Knoxville—the man behind the daredevil persona who lived through the consequences. Don't miss a video! Subscribe NOW: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://bit.ly/Subscribe-to-VICE-News⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Check out VICE News for more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://vicenews.com⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices