

The Dispatch Podcast
The Dispatch
Host Steve Hayes is joined by Jonah Goldberg, Megan McArdle and guests for a thoughtful discussion on politics, policy and culture.
Episodes
Mentioned books

4 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 1h 30min
Corrupting Influences | Roundtable
David French, a sharp legal mind and conservative commentator, joins forces with Jonah Goldberg, a political analyst known for his insightful takes, and Kevin Williamson, a seasoned writer focusing on law and culture. They delve into the controversial 'double tap' airstrike order and its potential violations of war laws. Discussions take a critical turn towards the rhetoric in conservative media, including Megyn Kelly's provocative statements. The trio also examines the complex issues surrounding pardons, warning of their risks and historical abuses that could undermine institutional integrity.

27 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 1h 10min
The Right’s Intellectual Thought Crisis | Roundtable
Michael Warren, a Dispatch reporter and journalist, joins forces with John McCormack, another top reporter known for his insights on conservative shifts. They explore the Intercollegiate Studies Institute's departure from traditional conservatism and delve into post-liberalism's rise. Charles Hillew provides Capitol Hill insights, revealing lawmakers' mixed reactions to these changes. The discussion touches on whether rising critiques of Trump signal a shift in GOP dynamics and how cultural norms, like dress codes, mirror broader societal changes.

20 snips
Nov 28, 2025 • 1h 9min
The Manchurian Peace Plan | Roundtable
Jonah Goldberg, a conservative political commentator and author, Megan McArdle, an opinion writer specializing in economics, and Kevin Williamson, a cultural and political analyst, join forces to untangle the complexities of the Russia-Ukraine peace negotiations. They dive into the risks of U.S. neutrality, explore the economic challenges ahead of the holidays, and dissect the nation’s daunting household debt. Plus, they hilariously discuss their least favorite Thanksgiving dishes, prompting laughter amidst serious topics.

Nov 24, 2025 • 51min
Your Children Are Too Online | Interview: Dr. Jean Twenge
Dr. Jean Twenge, a psychology professor and author known for her work on adolescent behavior and technology, delves into the complex world of parenting in a digital age. She discusses the detrimental effects of screen time before bed, advocating for stricter rules like keeping phones out of bedrooms. Twenge emphasizes a balanced approach to technology use and suggests tying smartphone access to maturity milestones, like getting a driver's license. Her insights also touch on the importance of community support, digital safety, and real-world responsibilities for kids.

57 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 1h 19min
Donald Lame Duck | Roundtable
Megan McArdle, an opinion columnist, David French, a legal commentator, and Kevin Williamson, a conservative columnist, dive into the complexities of Trump's influence within the MAGA movement. They discuss media fatigue surrounding Trump, the shifting dynamics in MAGA coalitions, and the implications of Trump's foreign policy, especially his relationship with Saudi Arabia. The conversation also touches on issues like the crisis in K-12 education and why some tech leaders are leaning towards conservative politics.

42 snips
Nov 17, 2025 • 1h 41min
Will AI Destroy Humanity? | Interview: Andy Mills
Andy Mills, host of The Last Invention, dives deep into the artificial intelligence revolution and its societal stakes. He explains the differences between AI, AGI, and ASI, and explores the starkly contrasting views from the doomers, scouts, and accelerationists. Mills recounts the Cold War’s impact on AI development and highlights the competitive AI race with China. The conversation even touches on the implications of AI for journalism and how it might transform or commoditize human creativity. A thought-provoking exploration of our AI-driven future!

61 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 1h 9min
Why Scandals No Longer Matter | Roundtable
Join legal commentator Sarah Isgur, conservative analyst Jonah Goldberg, and journalist Megan McArdle as they tackle hot topics like the implications of the longest government shutdown and the latest revelations from the Epstein files. They debate whether scandals still sway voters, dissect post-liberalism in today's political landscape, and explore if work offers purpose beyond pay. The trio navigates intriguing questions about electoral strategies and societal discontent, all while reminiscing about the fading penny.

9 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 55min
God and the Far Right | Interview: Mike Cosper
In this insightful conversation, Mike Cosper, a senior contributor at Christianity Today and host of notable podcasts, explores the unsettling rise of extremism within young conservative Christianity. He delves into the influence of figures like Nick Fuentes and Tucker Carlson, discussing how cultural shifts and online anonymity contribute to ideological mass shootings. Cosper also analyzes the impact of Christian Zionism and the evolving political sentiments among evangelicals, reflecting on the future trajectory of the American church amidst these challenges.

52 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 1h 35min
The Venomous Coalition | Roundtable
Megan McArdle, an opinion columnist with a knack for public policy, joins Jonah Goldberg, a sharp conservative commentator, and political analyst Mike Warren. The trio dives into the implications of recent Democratic electoral victories and examines the controversy surrounding Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts’ comments on Tucker Carlson. They discuss how radicalization among young conservatives poses risks to the movement's future, along with a lighthearted debate about sandwich condiments and regional favorites.

9 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 56min
The Heritage Foundation’s New Foundation | Interview: Tim Chapman
Tim Chapman, President of Advancing American Freedom and a veteran in the conservative movement, takes the mic to navigate current controversies. He dives into the crisis within conservatism, warning against abandoning core principles amid rising populism. Chapman condemns Tucker Carlson's hosting of Nick Fuentes, emphasizing that such rhetoric doesn't belong in the movement. He further explores how institutions like the Heritage Foundation have shifted focus and the dangerous allure of grievance politics online, calling for a revival of principled conservatism.


