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.

Rick Steves, renowned guidebook writer and PBS personality, shares his candid reflections on travel and life. He discusses his personal journey of transformation shaped by cultural immersion, emphasizing the need for authentic connections. Steves critiques social media's impact on tourism, urging responsible travel that fosters empathy. He candidly opens up about his prostate cancer diagnosis, highlighting the importance of community support. Through his experiences, he inspires listeners to embrace deeper travel experiences that nurture personal growth.

Alice Callahan, a nutrition and health reporter for The New York Times and expert on ultra-processed foods, dives into the startling rise of these foods in American diets. She discusses how ultra-processed foods now account for about 70% of what we consume and the historic shifts that made them so prevalent. Callahan highlights the alarming links between these foods and chronic health conditions, urging a reevaluation of dietary choices. The conversation also touches on societal perceptions and the need for better food policies to combat obesity.