The Political Orphanage

Explore the tumultuous life of Andrew Jackson, America's first president targeted for assassination. Delve into his ruthless tactics at the Battle of Horseshoe Bend and how they shaped his legacy. Discover the gripping details of a dramatic assassination attempt that showcased Jackson's resilience. Finally, unravel the unintended consequences of his presidency, revealing a connection to the future assassination of President Garfield through the bizarre path of Charles Guiteau. History never felt so thrilling!

Explore the fascinating dynamics of global housing policies, comparing America's struggles with affordability to Japan's streamlined zoning processes. Delve into Cuba's housing dilemma, where idealism clashes with reality. Discover how American regulations distort the market and create unnecessary challenges, contrasting them with Tokyo's compact living advantages. The discussion also critiques local governance and seeks innovative solutions for a more equitable housing landscape, blending market forces with effective government intervention.

Former senator Phil Gramm, a key voice in American economic policy, teams up with economist Don Boudreaux to debunk persistent myths about capitalism. They tackle misconceptions like the supposed doom of the Industrial Revolution and the misattributed blame on deregulation for financial crises. The discussion emphasizes the importance of competition in markets and critiques ineffective government interventions. They also explore how historical narratives shape our economic beliefs, urging a more nuanced understanding of capitalism's benefits.

C. Robert Cargill, a talented screenwriter behind hits like Doctor Strange and author of Sea of Rust, joins the discussion about Hollywood's struggles. They dive into the impact of potential federal tariffs on foreign films and actor John Voight's call for taxpayer subsidies. The conversation humorously navigates the complexities of reviving the industry amidst global competition, urging a rethink on financial disparities and government interventions. With insights on the evolution of film production, Cargill shares thoughts on upcoming projects and the importance of community in filmmaking.

Rebecca Allensworth, Associate Dean of Research at Vanderbilt Law, dives into the complex world of licensing regulation. She humorously critiques the absurdity of licensing exams, highlighting how they can stifle competition. The discussion reveals the struggles with self-regulation in sectors like healthcare and law enforcement, raising concerns about public safety. Allensworth argues for the need to reform licensing systems, advocating for greater transparency and focus on consumer access, especially for marginalized workers.

Marc Beckman, a Senior Fellow of Emerging Technology at NYU and author, sheds light on AI's potential to revolutionize various sectors. He discusses how AI is transforming healthcare with precise diagnoses and treatment innovations. The conversation also covers AI's role in agriculture, enhancing food security, and its exciting but challenging integration into daily life. Furthermore, Beckman explores the emergence of metahumans that can streamline everyday tasks, hinting at a future where AI improves personal interactions while still valuing human connections.

Jessi Streib, a sociologist at Duke University and the author of "Is it Racist? Is it Sexist?", dives deep into the complex perceptions of racism and sexism across political lines. She introduces concepts like 'acquitters' and 'convictors' to explain differing standards of evidence. The conversation highlights the challenges of recognizing subtle discrimination and the interplay between individual biases and societal norms. Emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue, Streib encourages a nuanced understanding of controversial labels in today's polarized climate.

Derek Thompson, a staff writer at The Atlantic and co-author of 'Abundance', dives into the flaws of government bureaucracy and the need for a shift towards growth and innovation. He critiques the slow pace of infrastructure repair in America and argues for the importance of deregulation and federal research funding. The conversation covers the challenges of adversarial legalism in public projects and the intricacies of scientific funding that hinder renewable energy advancements. Thompson emphasizes that understanding state capacity is key for effective governance.

Austin Padgett, co-host of "History 102" on YouTube, shares insights from a pro-Trump angle while discussing the complexities of tariffs and Trump's trade policies. Scott Lincicome, a trade expert from the Cato Institute, presents a critical view on the economic implications of these strategies. They compare historical figures like Napoleon III to today's political landscape, unpack the intricate dynamics of tariffs versus free trade, and explore the potential pitfalls impacting the American economy. Their analysis reveals fascinating connections between past and present trade conditions.

Cory Doctorow, a prominent journalist and activist specializing in digital rights, dives deep into the downsides of copyright law and its implications on innovation. He discusses the impact of non-compete clauses on the tech industry, granting insight into worker inequalities. The conversation also critiques the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, advocating for a more balanced approach to creator rights versus public access. Additionally, Doctorow unpacks the music streaming dilemma, highlighting how current royalty structures exploit artists.