Peter Baker, Chief White House correspondent for The New York Times, provides keen insights on President Biden's controversial pardon of his son, Hunter. The discussion delves into the implications for the U.S. justice system and the murky waters of political influence amidst rising tensions. Baker highlights the backlash Biden faces after breaking his promise not to grant clemency. The episode also examines how this decision could reshape public trust and perceptions of fairness within the judiciary, reflecting a complex interplay of personal loyalty and political integrity.

Ana Swanson, a trade reporter for The New York Times, dives into the complex world of tariffs and trade policies. She discusses Trump’s aggressive tariff strategy compared to Biden’s more investment-focused approach. The potential impacts on American manufacturing, especially the steel industry, are dissected. Swanson highlights the dual-edged nature of tariffs, impacting job security while also complicating relationships abroad. The chat wraps up with a look at recent diplomatic meetings and the significant shifts in trade strategy between administrations.

Nathan Burrow, Wirecutter's senior deals editor, shares his expertise in spotting genuine Black Friday bargains. He discusses the deceptive pricing strategies retailers use and emphasizes the importance of diligent research to nab real discounts. Burrow highlights product categories worth targeting, like small kitchen appliances and electronics. Key strategies for smart shopping are revealed, along with crucial tips to avoid common pitfalls. Tune in to learn how to escape the Google trap of misleading results while shopping this holiday season!

Ina Garten, the beloved cook and author known for her approachable entertaining style, shares her secrets for a perfect Thanksgiving. She discusses the importance of creating a warm atmosphere and thoughtful seating arrangements. Listeners get insights on handling tricky relatives and crafting meaningful connections. Ina offers two signature recipes – a sweet mango chutney and a festive cranberry martini. Her tips on glazing ham and packing leftovers make hosting stress-free and enjoyable.

Natan Odenheimer, a contributing reporter for The New York Times, dives deep into the controversial tactics employed by the Israeli military during the Gaza conflict. The discussion unveils alarming insights into the use of Palestinian detainees as human shields, revealing personal accounts that highlight moral dilemmas. Odenheimer addresses the normalization of this practice among military personnel and explores the conflicting emotions faced by Israeli soldiers. The backdrop of a recent ceasefire adds urgency to the conversation, shedding light on the intricate ethics of warfare.

Dave Philipps, a military and veterans reporter for The New York Times, discusses Pete Hegseth's controversial nomination as Secretary of Defense. He dives into Hegseth's transformative military experiences, including his reflections from Guantanamo and Iraq, shaping his views on military leadership. The conversation highlights Hegseth's evolution from critic to defender of the accused and his advocacy for veterans. Philipps also examines the tension between military ethics and political correctness, offering insights into the complexities of military accountability in today's climate.

Anton Troianovski, the Moscow bureau chief for The New York Times, dives into the escalating conflict in Ukraine just weeks before Trump's inauguration. He discusses the dangerous new phase of warfare, including American-made ballistic missiles striking inside Russia. The episode highlights Ukraine's military operations, North Korean troop involvement, and the potential shifts in U.S. support under the incoming administration. Troianovski emphasizes the chilling nuclear threats from Russia, painting a tense picture of the geopolitical landscape.

Explore the poignant story of Keiko, the famous orca from 'Free Willy,' who suffered in captivity while capturing hearts worldwide. Discover the deep bond between Keiko and his trainer, revealing the emotional struggles faced by captured animals. Delve into the public outcry for Keiko’s rescue and the challenges of relocating him to a more natural habitat. The journey from a movie star to a symbol of ocean conservation is filled with hope and heart-wrenching farewells, leaving listeners questioning the ethics of animal captivity.

Rosé, the talented South Korean singer from the global sensation Blackpink, opens up about her journey as she forges a path as a solo artist. She candidly discusses the emotional challenges of balancing her public persona with her true self. The pressures of K-Pop fame and social media negativity weigh heavily on her, but songwriting offers a therapeutic outlet for healing. As she navigates her identity and reflects on the collaborative future of Blackpink, Rosé reveals the significance of authenticity in her music and personal growth.

Michael S. Schmidt, an investigative reporter for The New York Times who covered the Matt Gaetz saga, offers insider insights into Gaetz's abrupt withdrawal from the attorney general race. He highlights the ethical scrutiny surrounding Gaetz, including allegations of misconduct and the implications of private findings from the House Ethics Committee. The conversation also touches on the broader political fallout for Senate Republicans and the challenges of handling controversies within Trump's administration, amplifying the theme of accountability in politics.