The Dispatch Podcast

Join political commentator Sarah Isgur, author Jonah Goldberg, and policy analyst Grayson Logue as they dive into the aftermath of a tragic ICE shooting in Minneapolis and its impact on public opinion regarding immigration enforcement. Sarah discusses the pitfalls of single-issue polling, while Jonah suggests treating immigration policy like a portfolio. Grayson critiques the administration's aggressive tactics, warning of backlash. The trio also explores the implications of a DOJ probe into Fed Chair Jerome Powell and even speculates on the geopolitical significance of Greenland.

Join Michael Warren, a keen political reporter, John McCormack, a sharp Capitol Hill correspondent, and James Sutton, an insightful analyst, as they delve into the DOJ's investigation of Jerome Powell. They discuss the political implications of Trump's tariff policies on interest rates and inflation, and examine how these economic strategies may shift GOP messaging. The trio also explores Iran's protests, highlighting generational shifts and the regime's legitimacy crisis, and reflects on how these events may resonate within American political dynamics.

Join Jonah Goldberg, a conservative commentator known for his insights on foreign policy, Kevin Williamson, a writer celebrated for deep political analysis, and David French, a legal expert and New York Times contributor. They dive into the complexities of U.S. intervention in Venezuela, debating the legality of capturing Maduro under international law. The conversation shifts to the implications of such actions on U.S. global authority and discusses a recent ICE shooting, exploring the need for accountability in law enforcement amidst heated rhetoric.

Jonah Goldberg, a conservative commentator, Gil Guerra, a policy analyst focusing on Latin America, and Mike Nelson, a retired Army Special Forces officer, dive deep into the complexities surrounding Nicolás Maduro's capture. They discuss the mixed motives behind the U.S. actions, the pitfalls of inconsistent messaging, and the potential long-term implications for regional stability. The conversation also touches on the significance of oil and drugs in policy justifications, as well as the cultural nuances involved in understanding this geopolitical event.

Join Jonah Goldberg, a savvy conservative commentator; Megan McArdle, a perceptive journalist; and Mike Warren, a culture commentator from The Dispatch, as they share their standout favorites from 2025. They dive into intriguing books like Neal Stephenson's 'The Diamond Age' and Helena Rosenblatt's exploration of liberalism. The guests recommend binge-worthy shows like 'Andor' and 'Severance.' Foodies will enjoy the duo's best meals, from Jonah's ambitious cassoulet to Megan's holiday classics, along with their favorite product finds like a robot vacuum mop!

Join conservative commentator Jonah Goldberg, journalist Megan McArdle, and editor Mike Warren as they reflect on the year's biggest stories. They dive into immigration policies and their political fallout, highlighting China's tech advancements and underreported tensions in Asia. The trio discusses the rise of autonomous vehicles and the growing national debt. They also critique media sensationalism around figures like Elon Musk and Candace Owens. Celebrating advances in gene editing, they end on a hopeful note, looking forward to a more reasonable political landscape in 2026.

Join Kevin Williamson, a keen political analyst, Jonah Goldberg, a seasoned commentator, and Grayson Logue, an on-the-ground reporter from the U.S.–Mexico border, as they dissect the Biden administration's struggles with immigration. They explore Biden's indecision, misreadings of Latino dynamics, and compare current policies to Trump's rhetoric. Grayson shares firsthand accounts from Yuma, highlighting local frustrations. The discussion also touches on political shifts prompted by Governor Abbott and the impact of Susie Wiles' candid Vanity Fair interview.

Megan McArdle, an opinion columnist and author, shares a deeply personal story about her mother's deathbed confession and its unexpected impact on her views about abortion. She explores childhood regrets, the emotional challenges of searching for her adopted brother, and the moral dilemmas surrounding potential lives. Megan also discusses the failed redistricting in Indiana while reflecting on the complexities of women's rights and the power of storytelling. The conversation is punctuated with humor as they touch on Rob Reiner's film legacy.

Join Jonah Goldberg, a savvy conservative commentator, Mike Warren, a political analyst from The Dispatch, and Sarah Isgur, a former DOJ attorney, as they delve into a range of pressing issues. They dissect the Minnesota welfare fraud scandal and its implications for immigrant policy, exploring how identity politics complicate the narrative. The panel debates the DOJ's recent dismantling of an AI chip smuggling ring while critiquing Trump's mixed messages on China. They even humorously consider the practicality of airport gyms and public fitness initiatives!

David Drucker, a political reporter known for his insights on Congress, Mike Warren, a senior writer analyzing elections and party strategy, and Chris Stirewalt, a former Fox News politics editor, delve into the murky waters of American politics. They discuss the current appeal of congressional jobs, the implications of midterm elections, and the prospects for candidates like J.D. Vance in 2028. The panel also tackles the challenges of incumbency, the impact of negative partisanship, and potential reforms to revitalize party dynamics.