Amanda Hess, a critic at large for The New York Times, unexpectedly discovers a love for Hallmark Christmas movies. She shares how these corny films became a source of comfort and nostalgia during tough times. Discussing their predictable narratives and heartwarming themes, Hess reflects on her journey from skepticism to genuine affection. The conversation also touches on the contrast between traditional Hallmark charm and the more risqué Netflix offerings, highlighting the cultural significance of these holiday favorites.

In this engaging discussion, Annie Karni, a Congressional correspondent at The New York Times, and Kirsten Gillibrand, the Junior Senator from New York, dive into the potential impact of a single phone call from President Biden on women's rights. They explore the historical context of the Equal Rights Amendment and its ongoing struggle for ratification. The conversation highlights the legal challenges surrounding gender equality, the implications of recent court rulings, and the urgent push for constitutional changes to combat discrimination and enhance women's autonomy.

Jaime Cachua's story unfolds as he grapples with the harsh realities of being an undocumented immigrant in Georgia. He shares his fears with his father-in-law, Sky, who holds opposing political views. Their candid conversations highlight the strains within family ties amidst a politically charged atmosphere. As Jaime navigates legal challenges for his DACA status, the emotional burden of potential deportation looms large, revealing a poignant tale of alienation and the struggle for belonging in a divided community.

Jonathan Roumie, acclaimed for his role as Jesus in "The Chosen," shares insights from his journey in Hollywood. He discusses the challenges of typecasting and the profound connection fans have with his portrayal of Jesus. Roumie reflects on the blend of faith and storytelling and how his Catholic beliefs shape his performances. He also addresses modern depictions of Jesus, emphasizing humanity and relatability. Roumie's experiences navigating the balance between belief and entertainment make for a captivating and thought-provoking conversation.

Maggie Haberman, Senior Political Correspondent for The New York Times, Catie Edmondson, Congressional Correspondent, and Andrew Ross Sorkin, Financial Columnist and founder of DealBook, dive deep into the political chaos surrounding a potential government shutdown. They explore Trump's influence on corporate America, with titans like Elon Musk seeking his favor. The discussion also examines the tangled web of congressional spending battles and the shifting dynamics between CEOs and politics, revealing how corporate loyalty is reshaping political narratives.

David Yaffe-Bellany, a technology reporter for The New York Times, dives into the explosive rise of cryptocurrency since Donald Trump's victory in 2024. He discusses Bitcoin's historic leap past $100,000 and the pivotal court case that opened doors for public investments. Yaffe-Bellany highlights the crypto industry's strategic political maneuvers, the growing pro-crypto sentiment among lawmakers, and how these shifts could reshape regulatory frameworks. He also touches on the implications of a potential national Bitcoin stockpile in an evolving economic landscape.

Catherine Porter, an international correspondent for The New York Times based in Paris, discusses a shocking rape trial in France that has captivated and horrified the nation. She reveals the disturbing betrayal by the victim's husband, who orchestrated a twisted plan resulting in the assault. The trial highlights the complexities of consent and the victim's courageous choice to confront her attackers in court. Porter's insights underscore a crucial shift in societal attitudes toward sexual violence and the empowerment of victims within the #MeToo movement.

Christina Goldbaum, the Afghanistan and Pakistan bureau chief for The New York Times, shares her harrowing insights from years of covering Syria. She unveils the dark reality of Assad’s prison system, where countless individuals vanished. Through the poignant story of a survivor named Bilal, listeners grasp the devastating impact of torture and the longing for lost loved ones. The dialogue reveals the complexities of a nation grappling with its past, the emotional turmoil of families searching for truth, and the flickers of hope amid despair.

Karoun Demirjian is a Congressional reporter for The New York Times with a focus on national security, while Jonathan Swan covers politics and Trump’s campaigns. They delve into the tense saga of Pete Hegseth’s nomination for Secretary of Defense, exploring Senator Joni Ernst's resistance fueled by concerns over military sexual assault and political ramifications. The duo discusses how Trump's allies mounted a campaign to diminish Ernst's skepticism, illustrating the high-stakes machinations and pressures within the GOP as they navigate internal disagreements.

The discussion dives into AI's influence on Hollywood, spotlighting how it's revolutionizing film production. Robert Zemeckis reflects on using AI to age actors convincingly, alleviating past challenges of visual effects. The episode weighs the dual nature of innovation, highlighting job security concerns amidst creative potential. It also explores the ethical implications of digitally reviving deceased performers and how filmmakers are adapting their craft in the AI age, questioning the future of creativity in storytelling.